Builder appointed for Kardinia Park’s fifth stage

A BUILDER has been locked in for the fifth and final stage of the Kardinia Park stadium redevelopment.

Last week, the Victorian Government confirmed the project had been awarded to BESIX Watpac, with works expected to be finished by the middle of 2023.

The leading construction firm has completed dozens of major infrastructure projects across Australia including Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and sports facilities at Albert Park and Lakeside Oval, and is presently building the City of Greater Geelong’s Civic Administration Building.

“We are delighted to have another major project in Geelong and we’re committed to maximising the local economic benefits we can bring through local procurement and by engaging local subcontractors,” BESIX Watpac general manager (Victoria) Simon Ballard said.

Stage five of the redevelopment of what is presently known as GMHBA Stadium will involve the construction of a 14,000-capacity, two-tier northern stand to replace the ageing Ford Stand and Ablett Terrace.

This will increase the stadium’s capacity to more than 40,000 people, boosting Geelong’s ability to attract and host national and international events.

The new stand will include facilities for professional and community sport, including unisex change rooms, and administration facilities for the Geelong Cricket Club.

Kardinia Park is widely used by the local community for activities and events, and the project will enhance facilities for patrons with a new northern entry plaza, sports museum, function room and a suite of technology upgrades including more high-speed public wi-fi and LED signage.

Stadium operations will be bolstered through the delivery of a new administration area for stadium and event staff, a crowd management centre and more CCTV capability.

The redevelopment will also have dedicated sustainability measures including solar panels on the roof of the new grandstand and provision for battery storage.

“Continued investment has meant that Kardinia Park has not only kept abreast of global trends, but it is also setting the pace,” Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chair Stephen Gough said.

“We can’t wait for the final piece of the redevelopment jigsaw to fall into place so we can provide an even better experience for fans and other users of this highly-adaptable stadium.”

The Andrews Government has committed $142 million towards the project.