Constructed Wetland Site Visit

16th April 2008

This morning was the AILA Sun Wetland Tour of Kawana Forest Wetland – an event kindly sponsored by Gamble McKinnon Green, which was a resounding success and enjoyed by all.

There were 32 people in attendance, mostly landscape architects based on the Sunshine Coast, with a good representation from local government and private practice.  The morning started with a BBQ breakfast and juice under a generous parkland shelter, with an introduction to the project and the tour by Greg Thomas, Associate, Gamble McKinnon Green and a welcome on behalf of AILA from Penny Hunter, AILA Qld Treasurer.

Following the breakfast, the group walked along the pathway that meanders alongside the wetland system at the edges of Kawana Forest residential subdivision, exploring the various stages and areas of water treatment and examining and admiring the landscape features and quality detailing featured in the parkland areas of Kawana Forest (designed by Gamble McKinnon Green).  Discussions on the wetland's successes and challenges provided insight into the design, engineering, construction and maintenance issues associated with such environments.

The setting was particularly beautiful in the morning, with abundant birdlife and curious kangaroos watching the group as they made their way through the fringes of the adjoining melaleuca forest.  The morning was also a fantastic opportunity to socialise and network with other local landscape architects and built environment professionals.

Many warm thanks to Greg Thomas and to the directors from Gamble McKinnon Green - Mike McKinnon, Ross Gamble and Andrew Green – for organising and sponsoring the event and for sharing their insight and expertise on the Kawana Forest Wetland project.

Photos taken during the event

Original promotions

Penny Hunter,
AILA Qld Treasurer