Custom Canopy Structure – Lake Weeroona Playspace

Lake Weeroona Playspace, a cherished recreational area, needed an effective solution to provide shade over its water play space. The City of Greater Bendigo sought a custom design that would not only offer protection from the elements but also address unique site challenges. The result was a bespoke 6-point canopy structure that blends functionality with creative design.

Design and Specifications

The custom canopy structure spans approximately 20 metres by 9 metres, providing extensive coverage for the water play area. Unlike conventional square or rectangular canopy designs, this structure required an unusual shape to accommodate site-specific constraints. The innovative design ensures maximum shade while maintaining aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

Initially, the project planned for two shade sails. However, a Geotechnical report revealed the presence of an underground water table, making deep footings for shade sails impractical. A canopy structure, which require shallower footings, emerged as a suitable alternative. This adaptation not only met the structural requirements but also aligned with the client’s needs and site conditions.

Materials and Construction

The fabric chosen for the canopy was Monotec 370 shade mesh in the vibrant colour Sherbet (Orange). This material offers robust protection from UV rays while allowing natural light to filter through, creating a pleasant, shaded environment. The supporting steelwork was hot dip galvanised and powder coated, ensuring durability and a polished finish that complements the surrounding landscape.

Engineering Challenges and Solutions

The primary challenge was adapting the design to accommodate the site’s geotechnical conditions. The initial shade sail design required deep footings, which were not feasible due to the underground water table. The project team swiftly devised an alternative canopy design that required shallower footings, thereby overcoming this obstacle.

Additionally, the canopy’s unusual shape posed design and engineering challenges. The structure had to fit within specific site parameters while providing effective shade coverage. Through meticulous planning and innovative design, the project team successfully created a structure that met all requirements.

Construction and Execution

The construction phase was carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption to the playspace. The hot dip galvanised and powder-coated steelwork provided both structural strength and a visually appealing finish. The installation process required precise execution to ensure the canopy’s stability and aesthetic alignment with the playspace.

Client Satisfaction and Impact

Completed in August 2023, the custom canopy structure at Lake Weeroona Playspace has significantly enhanced the area, providing a comfortable and shaded environment for children and families. The City of Greater Bendigo expressed great satisfaction with the project, noting the innovative solution to the geotechnical challenges and the positive impact on the community’s enjoyment of the playspace.

The canopy structure has not only improved the functionality of the water play area but also added a vibrant and visually appealing feature to Lake Weeroona Playspace. The choice of Sherbet (Orange) for the fabric injects a lively and welcoming atmosphere, further enhancing the site’s appeal.

Conclusion

The custom canopy structure at Lake Weeroona Playspace exemplifies how innovative design and adaptability can overcome site-specific challenges. By addressing both practical needs and aesthetic considerations, the project has delivered a high-quality, functional, and visually appealing structure that enhances the community’s recreational facilities. This project underscores the importance of creative problem-solving and meticulous execution in delivering successful public infrastructure projects.