Scotch College

Federation Square

The recent opening of Federation Square has evoked mixed responses from Melburnians who have watched with interest the project develop. Some people are enlightened by the uniqueness and daring of the design whilst others find it polarising and too unconventional. Whatever one's stance, one has to agree that the construction is daring and intricate. Interestingly, Sydney folk had a similar reaction to the launch of the Sydney Opera House in the early 1970s yet the building is now regarded as an architectural triumph and recognised the world over. Only time will tell if Federation Square gains a similar status.

The initial goal was not to construct a typical structural building but to develop a sculptural building. The project is a world first for Melbourne in many regards and one of the key project designers was Old Boy Jim Derham ('56). Jim's Company, Riband Steel, modelled, detailed, fabricated and erected the atrium section. The modelling component of the project included the development of the architect's idea to make the building functional. All data was checked on a computer in London to ensure its structural capacity. Prior to the Federation Square project Jim was building sculptures and mechanical handling equipment. Examples include the sculptures at the Geelong Botanical Garden entrance, the torches used by Scotch for the 150th Anniversary Heritage Walk and the cauldron that was subsequently lit at the school, the time capsule and the new bronzed tops of the James Forbes Academy.

Jim's design work for Federation Square commenced four and a half years ago and, as we all know, there have been some well publicised delays with the project. When one considers that there is in excess of 1000 tonnes of square hollow section metal; that each frame has been built with a 2mm tolerance and has been hot dipped galvanized prior to erection; and there is not one adjusted joint in the whole operation - every piece of the jigsaw puzzle has been bolted together without welding or cutting - the architectural achievement can be more greatly appreciated.

Three other Old Boys were involved in the project. John Vroland ('59) was responsible for controlling the engineering detail quality of the final product. Bill McMahen ('82) is Works Manager for Riband Steel based at the Wangaratta plant, and oversaw all the roof steel for the elegant atrium section and the façade steelwork on the SBS building.

Nick Bufe ('87), was involved in the Federation Square project. Nick was a project manager with Multiplex, the managing contractor. He has been involved in the project for over two years, and was responsible for the southern area of the development, including the commercial aspects, the pub, the river buildings (including the restaurants) and the essential plant which is located below plaza level.

Nick believes that because the project has brought the people of the CBD closer to the river it will be a tourist destination for both international and interstate travellers.

He attributes the delays to the fact that "architectural boundaries have been pushed, there were steep learning curves from project concept to project delivery and there were tenant relation issues". Some 40,000 drawings of the structural elements were required, highlighting the enormity of the job.

Nick believes the fact that the building looks different in varying light and weather conditions is a real highlight, particularly "when the light hits the zinc and the pavers from the Pilbara get wet". He appreciates the project much more now that it is nearing completion and is aware that there are elements to the project that the general public will never appreciate. Perhaps in time Melburnians as a whole will appreciate the building. Remember, it is hard to find a Sydneysider who admits to criticising the Sydney Opera House when it was launched!

Tim Shearer