Kane Constructions and joint venture partner Nicholson Construction (KNJV) is currently delivering a state-of-the-art regional court in Bendigo. The $152 million landmark civic building will transform the delivery of justice in Bendigo and Loddon Mallee, an area extending from Kyneton to Mildura throughout the north-west of Victoria.
Following a competitive tendering process, Court Services Victoria awarded Kane Nicholson the main works contract in April 2021. The KNJV partnership brings together national large-scale construction knowledge and local construction expertise. The joint venture is currently delivering the $50 million Bendigo TAFE City Campus Revitalisation Project, and in April 2021 delivered the $100 million Ballarat GovHub project.
The Bendigo Law Courts project will expand the law courts, delivering the latest technology and infrastructure to enable remote hearings, display evidence, video conferencing, and live streaming.
KNJV’s Bendigo-based team has a strong track record in supporting local subcontractors and trades to deliver work packages, prioritise social procurement and employ people experiencing disadvantage.
Local subcontractors have been engaged to provide main works electrical and mechanical services, mobile cranage, precast concrete structures, concrete, geotechnical services, scaffolding and more.
Richard Nicholson, Director, Nicholson Construction states:
“We value the contribution of our local trade partners and are excited to have them working with us on this landmark project. They’re hugely important to our delivery, and providing these opportunities is great for Bendigo and the local construction industry.”
Geoff Purcell, Director, Kane Constructions states:
“We are excited to once again be working with our regional partners in delivering another landmark project in regional Victoria.”
The future court takes design inspiration from the striking spires and towers of Bendigo's skyline, as well as more modest expressions of Bendigo's built architectural heritage.
Collaboration with Bendigo's Traditional Owners, the Dja Dja Wurrung has informed elements of the design, including:
- A representation of creation being Bunjil, will soar four levels high, built into the building's copper fabric, enveloping the corner facade of Hargreaves and Mundy streets
- A welcoming courtyard will be paved to symbolise a smoking ceremony and landscaped to symbolise the distinctive granite outcrops, water features and native flora of Dja Dja Wurrung Country.
Wardle and landscape architects ASPECT Studios have worked closely with the Dja Dja Wurrung to bring these ideas to life. These design features set the scene for a culturally safe and inclusive court for the people of Bendigo and the Loddon Mallee.
The project remains on track for completion in late 2022, with doors to open in early 2023.
