An exciting future for IMAS Taroona

The University of Tasmania is transforming the existing Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) site at Taroona into a world-class fisheries and aquaculture research and teaching precinct.

IMAS Taroona is being transformed

The upgrades will strengthen the Institute’s work to conserve threatened species like the red hand fish and Maugean skate, monitor climate change, and help preserve the local marine environment while ensuring sustainable wild capture fisheries and aquaculture industries into the future.

Teaching programs in the areas of fisheries and aquaculture, and marine and resource management will be enabled on-site, providing a real-world learning experience as students work alongside international research leaders in these fields. The site will also house a state-of-the-art aquarium system for the conservation and management of Antarctic krill, which are critical to Southern Ocean ecosystems and food security.

The IMAS Taroona upgrades include:

  • Construction of a new building named The Ocean hosting a teaching lab, wet lab and research facilities enabling IMAS’ research to be integrated with its teaching programs, making them applicable to real-world scenarios
  • Construction of a new krill research aquarium in partnership with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) named the Dr Isobel Bennett Southern Ocean Research Aquarium which will be co-located on-site where world-leading research, conservation and management of Antarctic krill will be conducted
  • Addition of a new site entrance and car park along with other improvements, making the site more welcoming and accessible to students, staff and the community
  • Upgrades to services infrastructure including extending the existing saltwater discharge pipe outlet next to the Taroona Foreshore Track near the IMAS Taroona campus

Explore the new facilities

Future students and their families are invited for a sneak peek to explore the new facilities at Taroona on Thursday 26 November, 4 - 6pm.

REGISTER HERE

Artist's impressions of the IMAS Taroona transformation

Construction information

While the transformation of IMAS Taroona is underway, there will be increased construction traffic, noise and impacts within proximity of the site. Temporary road and path closures may be required from time to time to prioritise the community’s safety as infrastructure upgrades take place. Please take care if passing through the area, and thank you for your patience and understanding while our contractors work to deliver this project with the least amount of disruption possible.

Contractor activity will occur Monday – Friday between 7am – 6pm with occasional work on a Saturday.

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The Ocean | IMAS Taroona construction camera

Campus Construction

Site updates

Works across the IMAS Taroona precinct are now focused on final construction, commissioning and the transition to operations.

  • Building works are substantially complete, with remaining activities concentrated on planned commissioning, systems testing, and final fit‑off across laboratories, aquaculture spaces and teaching areas.
  • Specialist equipment installation is underway, including aquaculture systems, filtration plant, laboratory fit‑out and technical services - critical in preparing the facilities for research, teaching and conservation use.
  • External works and landscaping are progressing, including the planting of trees in May grown from seeds collected on the IMAS Taroona site, supporting the long‑term regeneration of the precinct.
  • Site services and infrastructure are being finalised to support the transition from construction to operational use.
  • In partnership with IMAS, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is preparing its specialist fit‑out works within the Dr Isobel Bennett Southern Ocean Research Aquarium, marking the next phase of Antarctic research establishment on site.

Construction activity will continue during this period as commissioning and fit‑out works are completed. The University thanks the Taroona community for its continued patience and cooperation as the project moves toward full operational use.

For safety reasons, a short section of the Taroona Foreshore Track adjacent to the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) campus will be temporarily impacted while the University of Tasmania undertakes essential underwater pipeline upgrades nearby. The work will involve critical improvements to the existing intake and outfall pipelines that support IMAS's safe and sustainable operations, including research and species conservation. We appreciate the community's understanding as we complete these important works while prioritising safety. Updates will be published on this page as work progresses.

Frequently asked questions:

When are the work dates and when will the partial closure occur?

The seawater pipeline upgrades are happening in stages, and at times, there will be temporary impacts limiting access for users of the Foreshore Track. While every effort is being made to provide advance notice to our community, timing can be subject to weather conditions and contractor availability.

The next works are planned between Thursday, 6 August - Saturday, 8 August (inclusive).

During this time there will be increased contractor activity both onshore and offshore. You may see:
  • A barge, dive teams and construction vessels working adjacent to the coastline.
  • Mattresses will be temporarily used to stabilise the pipeline until the permanent stabilising infrastructure is in place.
  • Intermittent impacts to the Foreshore Track, including temporary pedestrian holds near the work site while lifting operations are undertaken.
Please take care if in the area and follow any temporary signage or directions from the site team.

Every effort will be made to minimise disruptions and we greatly appreciate the community's understanding.

Rock armour installation (work dates tbc)

  • A temporary full closure of the Foreshore Track adjacent to the IMAS site will be in place while excavators install shoreline rock armour (coastal protection) as part of the overall project upgrades.

What works are being undertaken and why are they needed?
The works include:

  • Stabilisation of the existing seawater intake pipe and
  • Extension of the outfall pipe

The intake pipe allows IMAS to source saline water needed to safely manage aquatic environments for vulnerable species such as the Red Handfish, Maugean Skate and Sand Flathead, supporting both research and conservation activities. Once this water is no longer required, it is treated and returned to the River Derwent in equivalent or better quality.

Why does part of the Foreshore Track need to temporarily close?
A small section of the Foreshore Track near the IMAS Taroona campus will be temporarily closed to:

  • Ensure public safety, and
  • Allow contractors safe access to move specialist equipment and materials required for the pipeline works

We recognise the Foreshore Track is highly valued and well used by the community and will minimise disruption wherever possible. All other sections of the track will remain open and accessible.

Will vessels on the River Derwent be impacted?
The contractor will liaise with Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) to ensure all offshore works comply with relevant requirements should vessels be moving through the area during the works.

Who can I contact if I have a question?
Please email us at Campus.Transformation@utas.edu.au or contact University of Tasmania Project Coordinator, Amanda Strickland: +61 3 6324 3605

An image showing a map of the impacted part of the Taroona Foreshore Track

An image showing the section of the Taroona Foreshore Track that will be intermittently impacted as part of the pipeline upgrades.

Site Manager
VOS Construction & Joinery
Adrian Easther
Mobile: 0458 325 140
Email: aeasther@vosgroup.com

University of Tasmania
Project Manager, Capital Works
Benjamin Greaves
Email: Campus.Transformation@utas.edu.au

Frequently asked questions

The Taroona site has hosted a fisheries and aquaculture research centre for more than fifty years. First operated by the Department of Sea Fisheries, it became the Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute (TAFI) in 1998, and later became the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS). At the Taroona site, IMAS has conducted critical research that has contributed to our understanding of climate change, preserving and managing the local marine environment and wild capture fisheries, monitoring the sustainable development and impacts of aquaculture, and protecting and conserving threatened species like the red handfish and Maugean skate. Modern, specialised facilities are required to continue this important work, realise the full potential of the expertise on site, and train the marine and fisheries scientists of the future. This is the facility’s first major overhaul since opening in 1970 and will enable IMAS to continue shaping a positive, sustainable future for the planet by increasing its research capability. The improvements are also supporting the delivery of teaching programs on site while making the facility far more accessible and welcoming to all.

The new purpose-built teaching and research facility called The Ocean, which is being delivered through the IMAS Taroona upgrades, will enable components of two majors from the Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Studies to be taught on site (Sustainable Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management), along with two majors from the Master of Marine and Antarctic Studies (Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries Management). The Ocean will feature contemporary teaching and research training laboratories for studying tropical and temperate species. Students will have unique, real-world learning experiences as they work and study alongside industry partners and international research leaders.

Due to the high-quality aquaculture facilities onsite and the proximity to the River Derwent to access seawater, the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) has chosen to co-locate its world-class krill research facility on the Taroona site. Locating the krill facility at the IMAS Taroona site will enable scientists and researchers from both IMAS and AAD to work even more closely towards shared, positive outcomes for the environment. This partnership builds on IMAS’ existing work with AAD and Hobart’s position as the gateway to Antarctica.

Kingborough Council approved the DA in March 2023 with Tasmanian firm VOS Construction & Joinery commencing activity on-site in April 2024. Key achievements of the construction timeline so far include:

  • Significant rock and soil from excavation work being repurposed and integrated as part of landscaping and civil works to reduce refuse.
  • Completion of the boat shed extension on-site, including the addition of an aquaculture feed production space used for undergraduate teaching in first semester this year, the first timetabled teaching at the Taroona campus.
  • Completion of the new building’s foundations, with the installation of precast concrete panels to the façade 50% complete.

Yes, regular drop-in sessions are being held at the nearby Taroona Bowls and Community club which community members are invited to attend to learn about the latest progress and ask any questions. Upcoming opportunities are being shared on this website. Alternatively, please email us at Campus.Transformation@utas.edu.au.

During the construction period, Nubeena Crescent will remain open and accessible to residents, road users and pedestrians during the works, but from time-to-time there will be temporary impacts, closures and alternative traffic and pedestrian access in the proximity of the IMAS Taroona site for safety reasons. As with all construction projects, there will be varying levels of noise as the upgrades are carried out. We appreciate your patience and understanding while both the University and contractors work to keep disruptions to a minimum. University and contractor vehicle parking will be located on-site with provision for overflow in the nearby football public car park during business hours to avoid any impacts to residential on-street parking. Once construction activity is complete, the new IMAS car park will be made available after hours to residents and users of nearby facilities such as the football club. During construction work hours, the eastern end of Nubeena Crescent is speed-limited 30km/h with temporary road signage in place. At all other times, the speed limit remains 50km/h. The IMAS Taroona campus is a shared zone with a 10km p/h speed limit.

The section of the pedestrian track which runs alongside the IMAS Taroona site will remain open during the works. Through stages of the site upgrades, contractors will be improving the services infrastructure which is located on the river side of the path that will involve extending the existing saltwater discharge pipe to mitigate flows impacting the shoreline.

The University of Tasmania owns the site.

We are excited to share the sustainable steps being taken in the IMAS Taroona redevelopment project. Through careful design and the use of innovative materials, we are aiming for a 24% reduction in upfront embodied carbon—the total carbon emissions generated during the building's early stages, from construction through to the production of materials, before the building begins operation. Here are some of the key sustainable practices:

  • Hanson Enriched 30: A low carbon concrete which typically has 30% less upfront embodied carbon than traditional concrete. Additionally, precast concrete panels have been utilised wherever possible to reduce vehicle movements and improve onsite logistics and safety.
  • XLAM Mass timber: Parts of the building structure will be made using XLAM Mass timber—a strong, low-carbon alternative to traditional concrete and steel comprised of layers of timber formed into large posts, beams and panels.
  • Native coastal fauna: We are enhancing the site’s biodiversity by planting native coastal flora and employing water-sensitive design measures to help retain water within the landscaping. Some tree removal has been required to accommodate the development, but saplings have been successfully germinated from these trees for inclusion in the landscape, ensuring continued regeneration.

Native coastal fauna for IMAS

  • Tree protection zones: To preserve the existing natural environment, tree protection zones have been established on-site, and a large section of the headland reserve at the south-western portion of the campus will be returned to the community.
  • Repurposing materials for wildlife: Materials that were no longer required and needed removing from the site prior to construction commencing were donated to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to be repurposed for building new animal enclosures, helping support local wildlife.

These initiatives are part of our commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact. We look forward to keeping the community informed as the project progresses.

Since planning and development commenced in 2020, a range of community conversations have been undertaken which have been important in shaping the final design produced by Preston Lane Architects.

We are proud to share that most trades, contractors and consultants working on this project are Tasmanian-based. This involvement ensures we are benefiting and drawing on the skills and expertise within our own community while contributing to the local economy by supporting employment with up to 150 jobs associated with this project, and fostering long-term economic growth in the region. This approach strengthens our connection to the community while also delivering a high-quality, sustainable project.

Key businesses and suppliers contributing to the IMAS Taroona transformation (Tasmanian businesses denoted in bold):

Key partners:

  • Preston Lane Architects
  • Rare Innovation
  • VOS Construction & Joinery

Sub-consultants and sub-contractors:

  • Access Hardware
  • Acrow
  • Andrew Sutherland Consulting
  • Arcom Blinds
  • Arup
  • All Urban Planning
  • Before Creative
  • Barratt Masonry
  • Brid River
  • Brock Plaster
  • CKB
  • Cooke and Dowsett
  • Conform Group Pty Ltd
  • Contact Electrical
  • Cova Group
  • Crisp Bros
  • DDM Civil
  • Eco Tas
  • Engineering Services Tasmania
  • Fresh By Design
  • Gandy and Roberts Consulting Noise Vibration Consulting
  • GeoTas
  • Honeywell
  • Into Aqua
  • KONE
  • Metechno
  • O.P. Industries
  • PDA Surveyors
  • Philip Jackson Arborist
  • Playstreet
  • Raymark Roofing
  • Reveg
  • Richo’s Rendering
  • RIS Safety
  • Sealed Solutions
  • Slattery
  • Stephen Little Constructions
  • Tas Span
  • Thompson Floor Covering
  • Tom Moore & Son
  • Total Prefab
  • UCI Tasmania
  • Ummow Wooster
  • Walter Welding
  • Westlab
  • Westland Nursery
  • XLAM

Tasmanian suppliers:

  • ACROW
  • Analytical Services Tasmania
  • ARC Tassteel
  • Archers Underground Services
  • AWM Electrical
  • Bay Hire
  • Beresford Electrical Powerlines Tas
  • Brid River Sales, Brittons
  • Bunnings Group Limited
  • Buildtech Supplies Pty Ltd
  • Clennetts Mitre 10
  • Coates Hire
  • CJT Concrete Pumping
  • CR Kennedy & Co
  • Diamond Solutions
  • Gil Direens Aphalting
  • Duggans Pty Ltd
  • Dunbabin Contracting
  • Drillcut Pty Ltd
  • Elliots Cranes
  • Eye Spy Signs
  • Euro Signs and Graphics
  • Fentons
  • FIRESAFE Equipment
  • Forze Explosive Services
  • Hanson Construction
  • Hazell Bros
  • Hobart Arbor
  • Hobart Plant Hire Pty Ltd
  • Hudson Civil Products
  • Independent Sheet Metal
  • Initial Hygiene
  • Jim’s Test and Tag
  • Juicy Isle Pty Ltd
  • KAR-TAS Cleaning
  • Kone, Konnect
  • Mal’s Hire and Hardware
  • Noble Concrete and Excavation
  • Nubco Pty Ltd
  • Officeworks
  • Peacock Darcy and Anderson Surveyors
  • Protech
  • Powerlines Tas
  • Reece Plumbing
  • RB and SJ Hire
  • RMD Fence and Gate Supplies,
  • SAI Global
  • Skyline Concrete Pumping
  • South East Traffic Management
  • St John Ambulance
  • Stratex Pty Ltd
  • Tas-X Contracting
  • Tasbulk Pty Ltd
  • Terrace Trading
  • Total Prefab
  • Tradie Bins and Hire
  • Veolia and Weatherfoil

The new building’s name has now been formalised as The Ocean, shaped with input from IMAS students and staff. The name provides a distinctive and enduring identity that reflects the building’s purpose, connects to Tasmania’s marine environment and aligns with the University’s naming procedure approach.

“At the edge of the Southern Ocean, there is a place for exploration and discovery, where students, researchers and communities come together like converging currents – exchanging ideas, knowledge and care for the marine world. Welcome to The Ocean.”

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