Not just Recovery but Hope for Mongarlowe

 

fjcstudio is honoured to be part of the creation of essential social infrastructure in Mongarlowe with the development of the new Community Hall and Refuge Centre.

In collaboration with the Mongarlowe community, fjcstudio is working to deliver essential social infrastructure: a multi-purpose hall that will also serve as a refuge centre during emergencies. The 2020 bushfires underscored the urgent need for a safe space in Mongarlowe, where residents faced a lack of shelter and resources to protect themselves. Approved in late 2023 with government funding, this facility represents a critical step in addressing that need.

Mongarlowe, located within the Queanbeyan–Palerang Local Government Area, has long been vulnerable to bushfires. Identified as one of the 12 most fire-prone regions in New South Wales, the area faces an even greater risk due to anticipated climate changes. With the community’s population growing and the median age increasing (51 years, compared to the national median of 38), the need for this infrastructure is more pressing than ever.

Despite past challenges, the Mongarlowe community has shown remarkable resilience and collaboration. During the 2019–2020 fires, groups such as the “Mongarlowe Mozzies” and the “Mongarlowe Sirens” emerged, highlighting the spirit of collective action and mutual support.

Construction began in freezing conditions, with the CLT structure assembled in just two days, followed by the installation of windows and membranes to ensure airtightness.

The CLT structure of the new hall has been carefully designed, featuring high-quality internal finishes that require no further treatment. Pre-installed service channels and conduits ensure efficient planning, reducing the need for on-site modifications and minimizing both time and labor.

Once completed, the hall will be available for community events, classes, and recreational activities.

 Last Friday, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Hon Kristy McBain, praised the team for delivering a high-quality building within a constrained budget and remote location.

This project not only symbolises recovery but also hope—a step toward a safer, more connected future for Mongarlowe. We are proud to be part of this effort and look forward to sharing more updates as the project progresses.

Thank you to our collaborators Mongarlowe community, Olaf Thiele, RAICO Pacific and Krout Constructions Pty Ltd

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fjcstudio acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres  Strait Islander peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work.

We recognise their continuing connection to Country and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

We extend this acknowledgement to Indigenous People globally, recognising their human rights and freedoms as articulated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.