Tasmanian CLT proves its mettle on a global stage

Tasmanian CLT is being showcased as part of the Australian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

To be held from 1 October 2021 until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 Dubai provides a global platform for countries to showcase innovations while connecting and collaborating with other nations across government, business, culture, research and education. With 190 countries represented at a single location, the Expo will generate ideas to address the needs of a fast-changing world and connect Australia to new global opportunities

Managed by the Australian Government and designed by award-winning Brisbane-based architectural practice bureau^proberts, the Australian Pavilion shares with visitors the story of Australia’s diversity, creativity and contribution to the Expo themes through more than 60,000 years of innovation. The Pavilion will also host a program of business and industry events, which highlight Australia’s technology and innovation. 

The Pavilion design depicts an expression of the Australian landscape, and features a structural cloud-like formation suspended over a folding timber exterior representing the rugged terrain of Australia and the Pavilion’s theme of ‘Blue Sky Dreaming’. The design of the pavilion is highly elaborate and detailed, and the selected exterior timber product needed to be strong and durable enough to maintain its colour and shape in the harsh climate of Dubai.  

According to Justin McGowan, Australia’s Commissioner General for Expo 2020 Dubai, the Australian Pavilion was in search of a renewable, creative and innovative Australian timber product that produced a low carbon footprint to incorporate into the elaborate Pavilion design.

“Tasmanian CLT provided the ideal product for the facade as well as creating the elaborate shapes required for the pavilion. The CLT was durable and quick to export and install,” said McGowan.

“Having a product that is innovative and sustainable is exactly the type of product we wish to use to showcase our nation on the global stage,” he added. 

The perfect selection of Tasmanian timber provides a beautiful entrance point to the stunning Pavilion and is truly representative of Australia.