Background
A Canberra-based heritage landmark had been at the cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape for over 96 years, hosting a myriad of events, from concerts and performances to government occasions and royal visits.
Designed in the 1920s, the building exemplifies the Classic Revival style of architecture and retains most of its original elements, including its distinctive roof and interior features.
The local government initiated a comprehensive restoration including the conservation of the venue’s gardens that overlooked the site’s local riverway.
Challenge
The project required an alternative revegetation solution, capable of rehabilitating the site’s nutrient-depleted soils and promoting the germination of native flora to meet the project specifications.
The garden’s pine trees had recently been removed, leaving behind exposed soils that posed an environmental risk of sediment being displaced into the surrounding waterways.
Difficult growing conditions were compounded by the region’s harsh weather, hindering the effectiveness of traditional turf application methods.
Additionally, the exposed nature of the soil necessitated rapid site stabilisation to mitigate erosion and sediment loss.
Solution
To address these challenges, Vital Chemical, in collaboration with Canberra-based industry partner Complete Turf & Landscaping, recommended the application of VE Organic-Matt.
This industry-leading revegetation solution is proven to provide premium soil stabilisation while restoring nutrient-depleted soils.
Manufactured in Australian from sustainably sourced forestry timbers, VE Organic-Matt combines the rapid seed germination of hydromulch with the organic carbon properties of Vital Biochar, resulting in a nutrient-rich ground cover that builds and supports healthy soil microbiomes.
Additionally, VE Organic-Matt offers unique moisture-holding capacities, leading to reduced water usage, increased economic benefits, and enhanced environmental outcomes.
Result
The application of VE Organic-Matt by Complete Turf & Landscaping provided an environmentally sound erosion and sediment control solution, delivering immediate ground stabilisation to the site.
The inclusion of Vital Biochar returned carbon back into the local environment, facilitating the long-term restoration of the soil structure.
This restoration not only preserved the architectural integrity of the building but also enhanced the environmental sustainability of its grounds, setting a benchmark for future heritage conservation projects.
Initial germination occurred within weeks, soon developing into full native clover coverage of the precinct.
Vital Chemical and Complete Turf & Landscaping delivered a proven, efficient and sustainably developed solution that enabled on-time project completion and operational efficiencies whilst minimising the impact on the surrounding environment.
Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC)
Vital Chemical’s growing portfolio of ISupply listed products help our clients to achieve IS ratings through the delivery of proven innovations and sustainable outcomes.
