Franklin Square Redevelopment

Media Release

13th May 2016

Underwater timber collaboration makes select urban furniture

TASMANIAN specialty timber salvaged from underwater has been used in the refurbishment of Hobart’s historic Franklin Square. Sourced from the depths of Lake Pieman as part of the innovative Hydrowood project the Celery Top Pine timber elements were machined and brought together by local building supplies business Uptons and Oakdale Industries.

Oakdale Industries (a division of OAK Tasmania) provides people with disabilities manufacturing skills, working specifically with Tasmanian timbers. Established in 1964, Oakdale has a long and proud history of delivering quality products and services. The group currently offers a wide range of timber products ranging from timber flooring (tongue and groove and parquetry), skirting, architraves as well as craft items and fine furniture.

“To be involved in such a high-profile and public project such as the refurbishment of Franklin Square has been a wonderful experience for us” said John Hollis, Divisional Manager of Oakdale Industries, “The wood used is fantastic to work with and the grain of the timber throws beautiful characteristics which we feel complements the design of the street furniture”.

Hydrowood spokesman, David Wise said “We are excited to see Hydrowood already being selected for high profile applications such as Franklin Square. We congratulate the City of Hobart on supporting this pioneering project and look forward to hopefully seeing more Tasmanian special species being used in council redevelopment project both inside and out.”

The Lord Mayor of Hobart, Alderman Sue Hickey said: “The Franklin Square refurbishment is one of the many ’transforming Hobart’ projects being delivered by the City of Hobart.

“We are proud that the furniture element of this project has involved a collaboration of local businesses and provided an opportunity for community members living with a disability to be involved in delivering such an important project for the City,” said the Lord Mayor.