Project Case Study
GCAC
Greg Cruikshank Aquatic Centre (GCAC), Moranbah
Atlantis Liquid Dynamics’ concept waterpark design is a vibrant space, intended to deliver both an exploratory journey for younger children and a user-friendly wading pool where families of all ages can cool off!
Details
Asset Owner: Isaac Regional Council
Specialist Splashpark Construction: Playscape Creations
Splashpark Equipment Design: Atlantis Liquid Dynamics
Project Budget: $1.2m
Project Overview
Moranbah is a medium sized and modern mining town within the Isaac Region. Established during 1969, Moranbah is a purpose-built coal mining town. Summer temperatures are high which makes the Aquatic centre a focal point of the resident community and a destination for a variety of sporting, recreation and leisure activities.
The existing Greg Cruikshank Aquatic Centre (GCAC) water park was constructed in 2012. During 2019-2020, the water park was identified as requiring renewal works to heighten safety for users and to remedy a number of anomalies of the park and was eventually incapable of repair.
Design Brief
The objective of the new facility was to create a sustainable, fit for purpose and future proof integrated toddler Pool and splashpad for their community.
Concept Design
Designed to be a tropical oasis in the centre of town, the stunning pastel colours used throughout the aquatic elements and surface treatment designs add a playful and relaxing touch for young and old.
Product Features
The Purple Berry Dipper Trees (in Duo and Triple form) feature beautifully formed spherical tipping buckets that fill and tip seemingly at random. The bright purple berries are a re-imagined representation of the Burdekin Plum (Pleiogynium timorense), a sweet fruit native to the Isaac Region.
At 3.9m high, the curved stainless-steel posts add a beautiful architectural element to the splashpad and encourage users to engage in play across all levels.
Splashpark Features
Inset within the wading pool entry, Duel 4 Arches and immersive Ohio Rings add an interactive element alongside the water depth. Integrated ground sprays surrounding the wading pool allow children to interact with the water flows and build their water confidence without having to be fully submerged.
Standing between 1100 and 1500mm high, triple Dude elements have been placed on the perimeter of the splashpad, spraying water onto users below. Designed to encourage imaginative play, children can see these elements as see monsters, dolphins or birds drinking from the splashpad. Allowing them to engage and make up their own narrative provides so much value for children as they learn and explore.
All water flows have been designed to be gentle enough for toddlers but engaging enough for children up to 8 years old to want to play.
Entry to the splashpad and equipment circulation has been designed to encourage all-abilities access.
Something for Everyone
An active space has been provided for older users with Blaster cannons – epic water cannons with a user directed spray arc. There are two single Blasters in this space, offering users the ability to move the spray position for maximum competitive soaking!
All water flows have been designed to be gentle enough for toddlers, but engaging enough for children up to 8 years old to want to play.
The feeling of connection is apparent with the use of elevated structural elements and interactive aquatic features at the ground level, along with spaces of quiet for reflection and socialisation, regardless of age or ability.
Sustainability and Maintenance
All splashpark features are installed on an embed system and can be removed and/or upgraded for maintenance or serviceability, quickly and easily.
Through innovative design, the new splashpark utilises the existing plantroom infrastructure and footprint of the old facility. An additional UV system has been installed for optimum sanitisation in a zero-depth environment, and shelters, tables and seating and extensive plantings have been added for all-day user comfort.
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