Custom ‘Keyhole’ Structure — Yarram Pool

When Wellington Shire Council sought a solution to increase usage at the Yarram Pool, they envisioned a versatile, all-weather structure capable of sheltering both the lap swimming pool and the paddling pool. Enter the ‘Keyhole’ shaped Barrel Vault membrane structure, a design-and-construct project that exemplifies innovative engineering and meticulous planning.

The resulting structure features a large Barrel Vault shape designed to resemble a keyhole, ingeniously covering both pools under one roof. This ambitious design was further enhanced by the integration of 32 Ziptrak® blinds and 12 fixed clear PVC panels around the perimeter, enabling the pool area to be fully enclosed or opened as needed, ensuring usability in any weather.

Design and Execution

From the outset, this project posed unique challenges, necessitating extensive planning and coordination. The intricate design was managed in-house in collaboration with an external engineer, to ensure every detail was meticulously planned and executed.

One of the primary challenges was incorporating the Ziptrak® blinds around the perimeter of the curved structure. This required precision and creativity to ensure the blinds operated seamlessly within the unconventional design.

During the construction phase, an unforeseen leak in the pool surfaced, necessitating an immediate amendment to the original footings design. This unexpected issue highlighted the team’s flexibility and problem-solving abilities, demonstrating their capability to adapt swiftly to evolving circumstances while maintaining project integrity.

Working over water introduced another layer of complexity. However, meticulous planning and expert execution enabled the team to navigate this challenge smoothly, ensuring safety and operational efficiency throughout the construction process.

Furthermore, ensuring compliance with all Australian Standards for vision and lighting in a swimming pool environment posed another critical hurdle. Collaboration with a lighting engineer facilitated efficient adherence to safety protocols, underscoring the team’s commitment to meeting regulatory requirements without compromising project timelines.

Despite these formidable obstacles, Shade N Sails exhibited remarkable resilience and adaptability, overcoming challenges with expertise and determination.

Materials and Completion

The structure’s cover utilised Flexlight Advanced 902 S2 by Serge Ferrari, chosen for its durability and superior performance. For the Ziptrak® blinds, Achilles Rollclear Dimensionally Stable (DS) fabric was selected, ensuring clarity and stability to meet safety requirements.

Despite the project’s magnitude and various challenges, it was completed successfully in March 2022, a testament to the team’s dedication and expertise. The comprehensive planning during the design and engineering stages paid off, resulting in a project that not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations.

Client Satisfaction and Legacy

The most significant measure of success for this project was the satisfaction of the Wellington Shire Council. The custom ‘Keyhole’ structure at Yarram Pool stands as a beacon of innovative design and effective problem-solving, enhancing the community’s recreational facilities and increasing usage.

In summary, the Yarram Pool project is a showcase of how complex design challenges can be met with ingenuity and precision. It highlights the importance of thorough planning, the ability to adapt to unforeseen issues, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, setting a benchmark for future projects in the industry.