City of Ballarat

LiDAR-created Immersive Building Models

As part of the scope for the 2024-25 Building Condition Audit, we deployed using Matterport Pro3 LiDAR technology and a cloud-based platform to scan all 309 Council-owned buildings, creating immersive 3D models and virtual walkthroughs accessible remotely on multiple digital platforms. It streamlines inspections, maintenance, and planning while supporting dilapidation reports for insurance, construction, leasing, event hire, early years and community engagement. Accessibility was central, with online access enabling inclusive experiences for people with disabilities and carers alike. The project accelerates capital works planning, improves collaboration and achieves significant cost savings in generating CAD files and floorplans.

Whittlesea City Council

Peter Hopper Lake Renewal

Peter Hopper Lake is a 1.4 hectare lake situated in Redleap Recreation Reserve in Mill Park. The original farm dam was re-purposed to an ornamental lake in the late 1970s. The lake has a significant population of avi-fauna, amphibious and aquatic species. The lake experienced recurring algal blooms and ongoing wildlife mortalities since early 2020 and required major renewal and rectification. Improvement works were staged, commencing with desilting followed by major earthworks and planting. The project reached final completion in January 2026 to a total value of $5.06M.

City of Ballarat

LiDAR-created Immersive Building Models

As part of the scope for the 2024-25 Building Condition Audit, we deployed using Matterport Pro3 LiDAR technology and a cloud-based platform to scan all 309 Council-owned buildings, creating immersive 3D models and virtual walkthroughs accessible remotely on multiple digital platforms. It streamlines inspections, maintenance, and planning while supporting dilapidation reports for insurance, construction, leasing, event hire, early years and community engagement. Accessibility was central, with online access enabling inclusive experiences for people with disabilities and carers alike. The project accelerates capital works planning, improves collaboration and achieves significant cost savings in generating CAD files and floorplans.

Yarra Ranges Council

Stormwater Community Reference Panel

Yarra Ranges Council manages one of Victoria’s most complex and politically sensitive catchments, where climate driven flood risks and community expectations are rapidly increasing. In 2024–2025, Council delivered one of its most ambitious engagement programs to support the Stormwater Management Plan, navigating high public scrutiny around flood mapping and risk communication. This process led to the creation of the Stormwater Community Reference Panel; an innovative, transparent and enduring governance model that enables community influence over flood modelling, infrastructure prioritisation and stormwater initiatives.

City of Melbourne

Greening Roden Street

Greening Roden Street transforms a 210-metre inner-city roadway in West Melbourne into a climate-adaptive streetscape and linear park. The project delivers more than 1,000 square metres of new green space, a net increase of 27 trees and biodiverse planting that improves canopy cover, neighbourhood cooling and pedestrian safety. Designed in-house by the City of Melbourne and delivered on schedule and below the initial cost estimate, the project demonstrates how reimagining street space can provide high-value public infrastructure that benefits the community.

Wellington Shire Council

North Sale Wetland & Biodiversity Reserve

The North Sale Wetland and Biodiversity Reserve Project is a premier example of excellence in public works delivery. With the excavation and removal of 110,000m3 of material the ageing drainage reserve was transformed and enlarged into a high‑performing constructed wetland, the project delivers best‑practice stormwater treatment, flood protection and environmental enhancement. Seamlessly integrating critical infrastructure with high‑quality public open space, the project supports sustainable growth, enriches biodiversity and creates a valued community asset that enhances liveability, resilience and pride for the Sale community now and into the future.

Winner: Wellington Shire Council

Aqua Energy Leisure Centre

On 6 October 2025, Wellington Shire Council proudly reopened the redeveloped Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale following a transformative $23 million upgrade. The project delivered a complete rebuild of the ageing 1970s indoor pool hall, a new 24-hour gym and an integrated wellness centre creating a modern, inclusive and energy‑efficient community asset. Designed with universal access, sustainability and long‑term operational efficiency at its core, the centre now provides significantly enhanced community health and wellbeing opportunities. Since reopening, Aqua Energy has recorded the highest participation levels in its history, demonstrating strong community endorsement of the redevelopment.

Winner: Olivia Salamone

Team Leader Construction Engineering, Knox City Council

Olivia began her journey with Knox through its Engineering Cadetship Program. Since then, she’s steadily progressed through a range of roles in project delivery and leadership—each step supported by a team committed to her growth. “From cadet to graduate, then project engineer, and now leadership roles—every stage has come with new challenges and opportunities to grow,” Olivia explained. “I’ve been trusted with real responsibilities, and that’s built not just my skills but my confidence too.” “What drives me is knowing the work we do has real purpose—making Knox safer, more accessible, and more sustainable for our community.”

Winner: Rob Savoia

Program Manager Major Projects, Frankston City Council

Rob Savoia is a highly respected and capable public works leader with a proven record of delivering complex infrastructure projects that achieve strong community outcomes. As Program Manager, Major Projects at Frankston City Council, Rob provided leadership oversight for the $22 million Kananook Commuter Car Park. Through proactive risk management, effective stakeholder engagement, and collaborative problem-solving, Rob ensured regulatory approvals were secured and delivery timeframes maintained. His leadership safeguarded public investment and delivered a critical transport asset supporting accessibility, safety, and regional connectivity.

Department of Transport and Planning

AI-Driven Road Asset Data Collection

The Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) engaged Fedasen to establish a comprehensive baseline inventory and condition dataset for above-ground road infrastructure assets across Victoria’s arterial road network. Leveraging Fedasen’s AI-powered FiRA platform, high-resolution imagery together with machine learning and computer vision techniques were used to detect, classify and assess asset conditions in accordance with DTP’s asset hierarchy and data standards. The resulting georeferenced asset dataset and validated digital asset register support improved lifecycle management, evidence-based decision-making, and more effective planning and prioritisation of maintenance and renewal programs.

Wyndham City Council, Brimbank City Council & Moonee Valley City Council

Local Council EV Integration Project

The Local Council EV Integration Project is a landmark collaboration between Wyndham, Brimbank and Moonee Valley City Councils under the Western Alliance for Greenhouse Action and supported by $2.22 million from ARENA. The project accelerates fleet decarbonisation by deploying 55 overnight charging ports, a mobile DC fast charger and integrating 65 light and 7 heavy battery‑electric vehicles across three municipalities. The partnership overcomes sector‑wide barriers and builds capability for large‑scale municipal fleet electrification. Delivering cleaner transport, lower emissions and transferable industry insights, the project sets a new benchmark for local government leadership and collaboration in Australia’s transition to net zero.

Knox City Council

Proactive Easement Drainage Renewal

Knox City Council has pioneered a proactive approach to easement drain renewal, upgrading undersized pipes to meet Council standards when properties are demolished before new development occurs. By using demolition permit data, coordinating with builders and completing upgrades at the optimal time, Council reduces future costs, prevents the need for advanced methods such as micro-tunnelling or boring, improves drainage performance and minimises disruption to residents. Recent projects include upgrades at Renou Road, Coringa Court, Alderford Drive and Boronia Road, demonstrating how this innovative program delivers efficient, cost-effective and standard-compliant drainage infrastructure.

Manningham City Council

Templestowe Memorial Reserve

Templestowe Memorial Reserve has been reimagined as a contemporary, accessible, and symbolic memorial space. Honouring ANZAC heritage through innovative design and strong community partnership, the project now supports major ceremonies and provides a peaceful setting for reflection. The result is a lasting civic landmark that deepens community connection and preserves an important legacy.

City of Melbourne

Greenline Project Birrarung Marr Precinct

The Birrarung Marr Precinct Site 1 project launches the city shaping Greenline Project, reshaping how people connect with the Yarra River Birrarung and supporting the river as a living ecosystem. Guided by legislation, City of Melbourne strategies, Traditional Owner and community aspirations, the project strengthens river health while creating new promenades, greener open spaces and inclusive public places. The renewed river edge at Birrarung Marr now offers locals and visitors a welcoming space to pause, unwind and experience the city from new perspectives. It fosters connection to nature, celebrates Country, enhances biodiversity and contributes to a more liveable Melbourne.