Behind the Pipes: A Comprehensive Look at Aura Apartments by Aqualand

Project Overview

The project involves the development of a mixed-use retail and residential apartment tower located at 168 Walker Street and 60 McLaren Street, North Sydney, NSW. The building includes:

•  385 residential apartments

•  6 basement carpark levels

•  2 plant levels: Level 27 West and Level 29 East

•  2 levels of retail area

•  1 level of commercial space at Level 01

•  27 levels of residential from Level 02 to Level 28

Sanitary Plumbing and Drainage

We provided a complete sewer drainage system, including connection to the sewer mains, pipes, junctions, bends, pits, floor wastes, excavation, supports, backfilling, testing, and other necessary equipment. The system was designed and installed according to Sydney Water and AS3500.2 standards, ensuring proper coordination and authority approval before any work began.

Trade waste Drainage

Our Trade waste drainage system includes discharge to grease arrestor, pipes, junctions, bends, pits, floor wastes, excavation, supports, backfilling, testing, and other necessary equipment.

Stormwater Drainage

We provided a complete stormwater drainage system, connecting to Civil Drainage Service’s stormwater provisions and including all necessary pipes, junctions, bends, pits, floor wastes, excavation, supports, backfilling, testing, and other equipment. The system meets Australian Standard AS3500.3, AS2180, and North Sydney Council guidelines, covering both conventional and siphonic systems.

Domestic Cold Water

We installed a complete domestic cold water system, including all fixtures, fittings, faucets, pipework, bends, offsets, brackets, pumps, taps, and other necessary equipment. The system adheres to Sydney Water and AS3500.1&4 standards.

Domestic Hot Water Service

Our centralised domestic hot water services system includes all piping, fittings, supports, insulation, hot water heaters, valves, circulating pumps, and other necessary equipment.

Non-Potable Water Service

We provided a complete rainwater treatment plant system and non-potable water service, including all piping, fittings, supports, filters, treatment devices, valves, pumps, and interface to the BMS.

Planning and Design

Planet Plumbing was awarded a construct-only contract, with no design responsibility on the project. The initial planning phase was carried out in conjunction with Aqualand’s services team and fellow service trades. Weekly subcontractor coordination meetings were held by Aqualand services manager Marco Pomo and other service trades, including Fredon, Carrington Electrical, and Innovative Fire.

Implementation

The installation, materials, and safety measures were standard and consistent with our other projects. Our team ensured that all processes were carried out efficiently and effectively, maintaining high standards of workmanship and safety.

Challenges and Solutions

The AURA project went smoothly without any significant challenges. It was completed on time, demonstrating the efficiency and expertise of our team.

Team and Collaboration

Key team members for this project included:

•  Project Manager: Ben Condon

•  Site Manager: Peter Vatos

•  Leading Hands: Rod Gonzalez, Ronan McCaffrey, Tom Tatsis

Collaboration with Aqualand project team and other subcontractors was crucial to the project’s success. Our key partnerships included Syfon Systems, LTY Lagging, Ocean Protect, Kelair Pumps, Alstore Tanks, Sparks & Partners, and Veris.

Completion and Handover

During the commissioning stage, we prioritised meeting client expectations. To ensure a smooth handover, we focused on

•  Executing the Project Specific Quality Plan and Installation and Commissioning of ITPs progressively

•  Testing and verifying the operation of all systems and equipment

•  Accurately creating and verifying all “As Built” drawings

•  Completing comprehensive Operating and Maintenance manuals

•  Responding promptly to defects and maintenance issues during the Defects Liability Period

Impact and Benefits

The AURA project, while a significant residential development, offers a wonderful living experience with modern amenities. The retail spaces on the upper and lower ground levels add to the vibrancy of the area, enhancing the community’s lifestyle. The project’s successful completion sets a high standard for future developments in North Sydney, contributing positively to the urban landscape and the quality of life for residents.