Melbourne F1 Pit Building Uses 791 Meters of Australian Glulam

Albert Park Pit Building Advances

Development Victoria reports significant progress on the A$395 million Albert Park pit building in Melbourne, Australia, slated for the 2028 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. The project is integrating substantial material quantities, including 791 linear meters of timber, nearly 1,000 tonnes of steel, and 208 feature concrete panels.

This new facility is designed to meet current Formula 1 and FIA standards, aiming to secure Melbourne as the host for the Grand Prix through 2037. The Level 1 concrete slab has been completed, with frame installation progressing across the structure.

Australian Glulam for Roof Structure

The roof of the pit building, which will span over 14 new garages, features glulam timber supplied by Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH). ASH confirmed that its MASSLAM product is being utilized, manufactured from plantation-grown shining gum sourced from its Heyfield mill in Gippsland. This timber roof is reportedly the largest by area constructed in Australia.

Glulam columns are currently supporting the roof edge, contributing to the building's emerging shape as the Level 2 mezzanine steel installation nears completion.

Project Milestones and Phased Completion

Construction began with the installation of the ground-floor steel frame, followed by the timber and roof components. Night work continues on the steel structure, which includes the application of fire-protection coating, with acoustic monitoring in place.

Development Victoria anticipates that the new garages and a temporary Paddock Club, designed to accommodate 2,500 people, will be operational for the 2027 race. The complete building, which will include seven indoor courts and an expanded Paddock Club for 5,000 people, is scheduled for final completion in time for the 2028 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

Implications for Regional Specification

The selection of Australian Sustainable Hardwoods' MASSLAM glulam for a high-profile public infrastructure project like the Albert Park pit building showcases the growing application of locally sourced engineered timber in major construction.

For specifiers and procurement teams across Asia, this project highlights the viability and scale of glulam for large-span roof structures.

Teams can explore regional suppliers for certified engineered timber products that offer both structural performance and potential sustainability benefits, aligning material specifications with large project requirements and environmental goals.