Melbourne Cricket Ground, VIC
| Date of Commencement | September 2002 |
| Date of Completion | 4th quarter 2005 |
| Value of Project | $430 million |
| Project Architect | Daryl Jackson and Patrick Ness, Victoria |
| Project Manager | Clifton Coney Group, Victoria |
| Contractor | Plaza Interiors, Melbourne |
| Client | MCG Steering Committee |
| Builder | Grocon, Melbourne |
“What’s important for us when we are involved in such a large and important project is our ability to complete a quality job. In order to do this we need to be able to work with and rely on our suppliers. With Lafarge Plasterboard we liked the way that they were able to listen to our requests and come up with alternative systems or solutions. This means that costs do not escalate and the project deadlines are met and most importantly the client is happy.” - Mick Alsop, Site Manager, Plaza Interiors.
The redevelopment of the northern side of the Melbourne Cricket Ground will transform the stadium and reaffirm its standing as one of Australia’s great sporting icons. When Plaza Interiors won the contract for the internal lining of the first two stages of the redevelopment of the MCG, Bob Jackson, Director of Plaza Interiors, knew that Grocon would not accept anything less than reliability, quality and a “can do” attitude. Similarly, Plaza Interiors knew that they needed the same from an internal linings supplier. Having worked with Lafarge Plasterboard on a number of smaller projects, Plaza Interiors knew that as well as being part of a large building materials group worldwide, Lafarge Plasterboard was able to provide alternative solutions. These solutions would save both labour and product costs.
One of the main requirements of any stadium or public building visited by large crowds of people is that the final appearance is maintained for as long as possible without recurring costs for repair and maintenance. Lafarge GIB Toughline®’s impact resistant solutions were an obvious material choice for corridors, hallways and corporate boxes. For stand enclosures Plaza Interiors selected Watershield and for those areas where a Fire Resistant level was necessary Fireshield has been installed. In addition to all these impact, water and fire resistant solutions, Lafarge Plasterboard also supplied standard board and a range of compounds. The MCG has always been the premier stadium in Australia for staging and watching major events. On completion of the redevelopment, sporting teams and patrons can look forward to the best that Australia has to offer for many years to come.