Stromlo Leisure Centre

Nestled below the Mt Stromlo Observatory on a landmark site, Stromlo Leisure Centre includes an eight-lane, 50-metre lap and competition pool, a 20-metre learn-to-swim pool, slides, a toddler’s pool and splash park, a gym and fitness studio, a café, a crèche, and a swim store.

Designed by COX Architecture with Sellick Consultants, Stromlo was delivered by Kane Construction to support the rapidly growing Molonglo community. Theca Timber’s partner, Rubner, provided the roof structure for the pool hall building, which spans 47 metres and covers 5,400 m². Rubner’s scope included full structural design, engineering, shop drawings, manufacturing, shipment to site, and technical assistance during erection.

The glue-laminated timber (GLT) roof was manufactured in a factory and assembled on the ground before being lifted into place. The largest lifts weighed 19 tonnes and were completed in just 30 minutes, highlighting the efficiency of the assembly process.

The use of GLT was chosen not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its durability and ease of maintenance, especially in a corrosive pool environment. The material also delivered significant environmental benefits, with the project sequestering 226 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.