Frontyard construction continues: All hands-on deck

As we get closer to the official opening of Frontyard, the consultants, contractors and suppliers are working hard to bring the project to life

Brendan Watts, Project Manager at Case Meallin, one of the many team members working on the build said, “We’ve started painting and installing the timber panelling on the walls, tiling has begun in the bedroom ensuites and we’re even adding finishing touches to the bedroom and kitchen joinery on both levels, as well as beginning the door installations!”

Jessica Lee, Associate Director at design firm Fender Katsalidis, told us that when Fender Katsalidis found out about the Frontyard build, they realised how a project like this can help others, so were keen to do the best job possible.

“Everything in the build is custom-made to ensure it can endure the strenuous usage ahead. The Fender Katsalidis interior design team worked closely with MCM to ensure all furnishings contributed to a light, bright and calming atmosphere, were as durable as possible and would look great for years to come.

“Fender Katsalidis jumped at the chance to help at-risk and homeless youth, going above and beyond to transform the refuge into a positive, youthful and safe space for both the young people and employees. Everyone is really proud to be a part of this project,” says Jessica.

The redevelopment of Frontyard is being made possible through a collaboration of government, philanthropy and industry as well as the generosity of the many external consultants, contractors and suppliers.

A team of engineering consultants at Norman Disney and Young, through the Property Industry Foundation, are donating their time pro-bono to the $8 million project.

Gabriel Lu, Senior Acoustic Consultant at NDY and NDY’s Project Leader says, “This project is an incredible opportunity for MCM and our team have worked tirelessly to ensure the space can support Frontyard’s important work for as long as possible.”

“This project resonated with me as Frontyard provides safe spaces for young people. I identify as a gay male and in the LGBT community, many young people who come out feel unsafe to go home. As an engineer and a supporter of these young people, it’s great to be able to help them,” he adds.

Harvey Norman Commercial Victoria is one of the key suppliers to the project, who were more than enthusiastic in joining the Frontyard project and managed to gather their core suppliers to support the great cause. They are thrilled to help build a safe place for at-risk youth in Victoria.

Melissa Goedheer, Senior Account Manager of Harvey Norman said they found out about the redevelopment through Built, the principal contractor on the project.

“When Built told us about Frontyard, we thought it was a great project that we would love to be a part of. We spoke to some of our core suppliers including Fisher & Paykel and Husky who were happy to get involved as well,” says Melissa.   

As the newest addition to the team, Hendry will be serving as building surveyors for this important project.

Hendry CEO, Emma Hendry, said when she first heard about the project, she was immediately onboard.“Frontyard really stood out for us. It not only provides accommodation but serves as a fully integrated multidisciplinary support program. We believe meaningful change will occur through this program,” she said.

“The issue of homelessness is particularly close to our hearts. It is our aim is to make safer, smarter and more sustainable buildings, cities and communities for all, whether that is through our day-to-day business, social responsibility activities or advocacy,” Ms Hendry commented.

Frontyard is the result of a community partnership and we want to thank our philanthropic partners for supporting the build of a fully integrated 24/7 youth crisis accommodation centre.

Special thanks go to The Peter and Lyndy White Foundation, Gandel Philanthropy, Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, PwC, Joe White Bequest, Dorothy Kingston, The Andrew and Geraldine Buxton Foundation.

Fourteen companies from the property and building sector have committed a huge amount of hours to Frontyard, with the support of the Property Industry Foundation (PIF): Fender Katsalidis/Architect, Norman Disney & Young/Services Engineer, Wood & Grieve Engineers/Services and Structural Engineer, Case Meallin/Project Manager, Slattery/Quantity Surveyor, Ashurst/Legal Consultant, Urbis/Town Planner, Hendry Group/Building Surveyor, Irwinconsult/Waste Consultant, Equitable Access Solutions/Access Consultant, Built/Head Contractor, Apec/Electrical Contractor, AMP/Donated Workstations & Furniture and AGL Energy/Donated Ceiling Tiles.