Ballarat North- A Blueprint for Sustainable Futures

Interdisciplinary Competition 2024

In 2024 students and recent graduates were given the opportunity to Design a Resilient, Connected, and Eco-Friendly Community in the Heart of Ballarat by applying lessons learnt from the OFC seminar series and site tours in an exciting interdisciplinary design competition. OFC brought together students, industry practitioners and communities together to engage and envision a new and vibrant future for the Ballarat precinct.

The Site

Ballarat North is located approximately 8km from the Ballarat Central business district. It is Victoria’s third largest city and is expected to continually grow. It is a major contributor to Victoria’s economy and culture. By 2041, it is expected to have grown by 55,000 people, meaning at least 26,000 more dwellings will be required to support this growing population.

Download the 2024 competition brief for more information here.

Seminar Series

A four-part seminar series was offered to program participants which provided them an opportunity to hear from and work alongside, some of the world’s best minds and innovators.

Students joined with those currently leading the way in shaping sustainable, liveable, socially just and resilient future cities, and discussed how to make our cities better.

In-Person Site Tour

Great cities and urban spaces are those that are sensitive to the environmental, cultural and social context and histories. When it comes to designing future cities, getting out into place is crucial.

The site tour is the perfect opportunity to explore the current character and environment of Ballarat and get a feel for local cultures and perspectives and have informal discussions with your fellow OFC 2024 friends, and representatives from the public sector, private practice and community groups.

Third Place

Team 8 - Harnessing Recycled Water for Clean Energy and Green Refuge.

This team presented a forward-thinking proposal, “Harnessing Recycled Water for Clean Energy and Green Refuge,” that combines clean energy innovation with biodiversity conservation. Central to their design is a green hydrogen plant powered by recycled water, which addresses future energy needs in an eco-friendly way. The proposal also includes a “7 Seasons Indigenous Trail” and designated green spaces that honor Wadawurrung culture and provide habitats for local wildlife. Through recreational and educational areas, Team 8 envisions a refuge where Ballarat North residents can connect with nature and learn about sustainable practices in a uniquely green environment.

Team 8’s innovative use of recycled water for hydrogen production is a standout feature that demonstrates a commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Their proposal’s emphasis on cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation enriches the community’s green spaces, providing both environmental benefits and educational value. This project exemplifies a creative approach to addressing sustainability challenges while fostering a deeper connection between the community and its natural landscape.

Second Place

Team 13 – Respecting Water and Each Other

This group titled “Respecting Water and Each Other,” focuses on sustainable water management and cultural values as core components of their design. Their vision integrates water-sensitive urban design principles, such as rainwater collection systems and permeable pathways, to enhance flood resilience and support local ecosystems. The team proposed green transport solutions, including pedestrian pathways and cycling networks, to reduce vehicle emissions and improve connectivity. Through community gardens, educational centers, and spaces celebrating Wadawurrung traditions, the project fosters a sense of belonging and respect for Ballarat North’s cultural and ecological landscape.

Team 13’s design impressed with its commitment to water sustainability and cultural inclusion. By incorporating Wadawurrung values and prioritizing ecological health, their proposal connects people to both the land and each other. This thoughtful integration of water-sensitive design and community-oriented spaces provides a model of environmental stewardship that encourages residents to engage with and protect their surroundings.

First Place

Team 10 – OFC Flowing Future

This team focus on “Flowing Future” design centers around the regenerative power of water to transform Ballarat North into a vibrant, adaptive landscape. Their proposal envisions a network of floodplain wetlands, designed to retain and purify stormwater, supporting both biodiversity and community access. The adaptive wetlands are integrated with spaces for recreation, education, and cultural engagement, allowing residents and visitors to reconnect with the land and its natural rhythms. The project also includes community farming and revegetation initiatives, encouraging local participation in environmental stewardship. This approach not only enhances Ballarat North’s green spaces but also establishes meaningful ties with the cultural heritage of the Wadawurrung people.

Team 10’s proposal stood out for its seamless integration of water-sensitive urban design with community engagement and cultural respect. Their adaptive wetland approach addresses the challenges of urban expansion while creating resilient spaces that celebrate nature. By blending ecological preservation with recreational and educational areas, ‘Flowing Future’ exemplifies a holistic and inclusive vision for Ballarat North’s future.

For more information about OFC Flowing Future, click here .