Trinity Grammar School

Given that pedestrian and asset protection is the primary objective of the project, Trinity Grammar School necessitated a robust safety solution designed to prevent unauthorised vehicle access. This measure aimed to enhance overall security on the school premises, safeguard students, and protect school property, all while maintaining compatibility with the aesthetic of the school grounds.

The school had two main areas of concern: first, asset protection along the existing fence line, particularly near the perimeter where children frequently play on an adjacent playground, and second, the drop-off and pick-up entrance gates, which experience high volumes of vehicle traffic.

Barrier Group Account Manager David conducted an initial site visit to assess the property and gain a better understanding of the specific requirements for the areas in need of physical safety infrastructure. Site visits are a key component of Barrier Group’s turn-key safety solutions, providing both parties with the opportunity to collaborate and align on the desired outcome of a project.

To address the school’s safety concerns, Barrier Group facilitated the design, supply, and installation of bollards tailored to each specific area. Custom square bollards, covered in a sleek black powder-coat, were chosen for asset protection along the existing fence line. The custom black powder coating enabled us to maintain compatibility with the school fence line’s aesthetic while providing the heavy-duty asset protection required for the area.

Similarly, the school’s entrance gates required a solution that was not only heavy-duty but also adaptable to the area’s functional needs. Trinity Grammar required the flexibility to allow vehicle access, when necessary, such as for maintenance or emergency services, while restricting the area to pedestrian use at all other times. To complement the school's architectural fascia, stainless steel retractable bollards with reflective white strips were selected. These bollards provided the required versatility, allowing staff to lock them upright or lower them via a T-lock mechanism, enabling controlled vehicle access when needed.

Barrier Group and Trinity Grammar collaborated closely over the 8-month period to overcome several challenges associated with the project's large-scale nature, particularly given that it was conducted at an active school site.

A major consideration for the project was ensuring minimal disruption during installation. Since the work took place along busy pedestrian walkways – where students regularly enter and exit the campus – and near a playground – where they frequently play and socialise - it was crucial to plan the installation meticulously to avoid unnecessary interference with daily school activities. Additionally, the scope of work required hydro excavation, and the size and noise of the equipment presented further challenges for on-site planning.

Furthermore, given the site’s proximity to the Melbourne CBD, the planned drilling for the retractable bollards, set to reach a depth of 1,200mm, required careful planning and a comprehensive site scan. This scan revealed significant underground electrical cabling, prompting the involvement of CitiPower. After assessing the area, CitiPower approved the bollard locations, with the recommendation to utilise non-destructive drilling as a precautionary measure.

“Being a turn-key safety solution provider, we were able to step in and manage the project entirely for the customer - from beginning to end – which meant liaising with external stakeholders when necessary and providing regular communication with the client.” – David, Account Manager – Victoria & New Zealand

To address these, Barrier Group and Trinity Grammar agreed on an installation date that coincided with the school holidays, ensuring minimal disruption to both students and staff.

“This project has been both uniquely challenging and highly rewarding. It involved multiple on-site assessments to bring the solution to life, including coordinating scanning activities, working closely with CitiPower to prevent cable strikes, and organising hydro excavation for safe ground access. It’s been a fantastic project to be part of, and Trinity Grammar is very pleased with the outcome.” – David, Account Manager – Victoria & New Zealand