Deakin Integrated Water Management

Delivery of integrated stormwater infrastructure, road rehabilitation and environmental improvements across Deakin University's Waurn Ponds campus.

Scope

Keystone Civil was engaged by Deakin University to deliver the Integrated Water Management Phase 2 project, incorporating nine intervention zones across the Waurn Ponds campus. The project was designed to improve stormwater quality, increase drainage capacity, enhance biodiversity and strengthen the long-term performance of the university's water management infrastructure.

A major component of the works involved the installation of approximately 800m of stormwater drainage pipelines ranging from 300mm to 750mm in diameter. This included reinforced concrete and StormPro pipelines, stormwater pits, junction structures, headwalls and connections to existing drainage networks throughout the campus.

The project also included construction of a new sediment basin featuring a multi-layered filtration system to improve water quality through staged sediment capture and treatment. Rehabilitation of the existing S-Pond involved dewatering, fauna identification and relocation, sediment removal, earthworks, subgrade preparation and reshaping of the existing pond. Environmental improvements included earth bunds, erosion control matting, topsoil placement, hydroseeding and extensive revegetation to improve water filtration and support biodiversity.

Road and pavement works formed another significant component of the project, including reconstruction and rehabilitation along Nicol Drive North. Following the identification of poor subgrade conditions, Keystone undertook ground improvement works and installed upgraded pavement layers to improve long-term durability. Associated works included the reinstatement of kerbs, asphalt and concrete surfaces.

With extensive existing underground infrastructure across the campus, service investigation and protection were critical. Keystone undertook detailed service locating, scanning, non-destructive digging and slot trenching to identify undocumented services and safely coordinate new drainage installations.

Project Delivery

Working within an active university environment, Keystone delivered the works through carefully planned staging and sequencing across nine intervention zones. Construction activities were coordinated around university operations, with traffic and pedestrian management measures implemented to maintain safe access and minimise disruption to students, staff and campus facilities.

The project presented several challenges, including undocumented underground services, poor ground conditions and additional road rehabilitation requirements. Keystone worked collaboratively with Deakin University and project consultants to manage design adjustments, implement practical construction solutions and maintain progress across multiple work fronts.

Innovative approaches included the adoption of StormPro drainage pipes as an alternative to traditional concrete pipelines, improving installation efficiency and constructability. Recycled crushed rock was also incorporated as drainage backfill, reducing reliance on virgin materials and supporting more sustainable construction practices.

Through proactive coordination, adaptable construction methodologies and a strong focus on environmental management, Keystone delivered improved drainage infrastructure, rehabilitated water assets and upgraded pavements to support the long-term functionality and sustainability of the Waurn Ponds campus.

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