Project Introduction
City Collective partnered with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council to design Stage 1 of the Macedon Ranges Sports and Community Precinct in New Gisborne, a project aimed at addressing the growing need for regional sports facilities. This phase emphasised creating a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible community hub. With its focus on both competitive sports and community recreation, the precinct included multi-use courts, two ovals, and integrated shared spaces.
Stage 2 seeks to expand the precinct’s functionality and inclusivity by introducing additional facilities, such as sports fields, enhanced pedestrian links, and environmentally sensitive landscaping. This phase focuses on meeting the diverse needs of the growing New Gisborne community while establishing the precinct as a regional hub for active recreation and community events.
Key Project Challenges
The project faced challenges stemming from rapid population growth in the region, which had outpaced the capacity of existing sports and community infrastructure. This increase in demand required the design to accommodate diverse sports and recreation activities, including AFL, cricket, soccer, and community events. Additionally, the site’s natural landscape, which included significant native vegetation, had to be preserved and celebrated while introducing new facilities.
Stage 2 faced several challenges, including integrating new facilities with the existing Stage 1 infrastructure while minimising disruptions. The need to address environmental sensitivities, such as preserving native vegetation and incorporating sustainable stormwater management, added complexity. Additionally, the design had to accommodate a wide range of uses, from competitive sports to casual community engagement, within a constrained budget.
Key Project Innovations
City Collective employed innovative solutions, such as creating a pedestrian-focused precinct with a centralised spine linking all key areas. Advanced landscaping techniques were used to manage stormwater with vegetated swales and ponds that doubled as natural habitats. The design also incorporated environmentally sustainable elements, such as solar energy systems and durable materials, while maintaining the site’s unique character. Stage 1 successfully set the foundation for a dynamic precinct that balances active recreation with environmental stewardship.
City Collective employed innovative strategies to overcome these challenges in Stage 2. The design includes a cohesive pedestrian spine that connects key areas of the precinct, creating a seamless and accessible experience for users. Sustainable features, such as vegetated swales, rain gardens, and energy-efficient lighting, enhance the precinct’s environmental performance. Thoughtful landscaping, including native plantings and massed greenery, integrates the built environment with the region’s natural beauty while reinforcing a sense of place. These innovations ensure Stage 2 not only meets community needs but also exemplifies sustainability and design excellence
Client
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
Location
New Gisborne, VIC, AU
Primary sector
Sports & Community
Value
Stage 1: $20M AUD | Stage 2: $16M AUD
Project years
2020 – 2026
Services provided
Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design
Project team
Project Director – David Cooke
Project Architect – Caroline Adams
Design Lead – Sam Wiechula
Project Architect – Stavros Zacharia
Interior Designer – Jonny Mitchell
