Marist Community Centre
Marist College Bendigo
Location: Dja Dja Wurrung Country | Maiden Gully, Victoria Sector: Community Completion: 2016
Y2 Architecture embarked on a transformative journey with the Catholic Education Office in 2011 to bring to life the vision of Marist College Bendigo in Maiden Gully. Through collaborative efforts with the Educational and Establishment Committees, an initial Master Plan was crafted in 2013, setting the stage for the school’s evolution. As the pedagogical and strategic vision of the college evolved, it became evident that a refinement of the Master Plan was necessary to align with the College Vision & Ethos.
This refined Master Plan serves as the roadmap for the staged development of the Maiden Gully site, nurturing the growth of the Marist College Community while embodying the school’s ethos. By creating spaces that facilitate and enhance pedagogical strategies while remaining adaptable to future changes, the Master Plan ensures that the college site evolves in harmony with the school’s needs and vision. At Marist, buildings and landscapes converge to form a cohesive sense of place, fostering memorable experiences and meandering journeys across the site. Through careful attention to texture, material palettes, and connections to the surrounding landscape, Marist College Bendigo cultivates a unique identity and enriches the community fabric.
A significant outcome of the community engagement process was the collaborative development of the Community Hub, a joint venture between the school and the local council. This hub addresses the growing demand for sports and recreation facilities in the suburb, featuring amenities such as football ovals, netball courts, club rooms, and a training kitchen. The partnership not only benefits the school and local council but also maximises the use of the site, enhancing opportunities for the entire community.
Additionally, innovative water management solutions, including on-site water collection, treatment, and recycling, have been integrated into the school’s infrastructure, showcasing a commitment to ecological sustainability and enriching the college ethos. The creation of wetlands at the school’s doorstep stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts and forward-thinking approach adopted by Y2 Architecture, the local council, and the Office of Living Victoria.