Trunk Watermain relocation: SMEC led the design and supervision of a 450mm diameter trunk water main relocation, an essential asset which provides the main water supply to the area. The final tie-in of this new water main was undertaken overnight to minimise disruption to water pressure. This was accomplished under challenging site conditions and time constraints, a result of detailed planning, design, and consultation with Barwon Water.

Stormwater Management: The drainage strategy prioritised the natural conveyance of stormwater flows and integration with the natural environment. Bioretention swales and rain gardens incorporate natural filtration methods, ensuring that stormwater runoff does not degrade Swan Bay’s sensitive ecosystems.  Lot-specific drainage systems designed by SMEC represent industry-leading innovations in water-sensitive urban design, setting new standards for urban developments within the City of Greater Geelong and the broader region.

Wastewater Management: SMEC introduced an innovative pressure sewer system, which was a first for residential developments in the Barwon Water Region. The system proved to be more efficient to construct than a conventional gravity system and is also safer to maintain.

Bulk Earthworks: SMEC developed a 3D model to optimise onsite management of materials and sequencing of activities , saving significant cost. An integrated grid tracking system ensured the awareness and effective management of potentially acid sulfate soils and the re-use of site won materials from borrow areas.

The resulting earthworks deliver unique proximity to protected wetlands, abundant parklands, and a network of walking and cycling paths. The open space network is completed by three road bridges and three pedestrian bridges.

Environmental Monitoring: SMEC oversaw regular environmental monitoring to comply with federal and state regulations. A key area of focus for the construction management team was to ensure the protection of the indigenous Moonah Forest and migratory bird populations of Swan Bay.

Stakeholder coordination: Through strong collaboration with key stakeholders and authorities, SMEC negotiated temporary servicing arrangements, expediting critical infrastructure works including road and pedestrian bridges, culverts, strategic water main relocations, railway crossings and an arterial roundabout.

Impact: A model of urban sustainability

The Point Estate stands as a model of urban sustainability, showcasing SMEC’s ability to simplify complexity in a way that harmonises with the natural environment.

The development sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban living that balances high quality public amenity alongside the preservation and enhancement of its natural ecosystems. Through best practice urban engineering, the community enjoys a thriving urban development that honors its coastal location.

The Point Estate became one of the first communities to achieve the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s (UDIA) nationally recognised EnviroDevelopment certification across all six elements; ecosystems, waste, energy, materials, water and community.