Aquinas College Ringwood TensoSport
Project Details
Location: Ringwood, VIC
Completion Date: June 2024
Size: 74m x 37m (2760sqm)
Fabric: PVC - Hiraoka HG212
Client: Bowden Corp
The Aquinas College Ringwood TensoSport Canopy is a large school cola (covered outdoor learning area) at a prestigious school in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs.
MakMax worked with the head contractor, Bowden Corp to install the 73m x 37m painted steel and PVC TensoSport canopy.
Designed to transform the school’s existing tennis courts into an all-weather sporting facility, the Aquinas Sports and Multifunctional Project (SAM) covers 3 multi-use sports courts.
The MakMax TensoSport canopy includes a range of sporting accessories, including 6 drop-down basketball hoops (motorised), fixed sports netting around the perimeter and three retractable netting curtains in the middle of each court.
The Brief
Aquinas College required a durable, high-performance shade structure to support its growing sports program. The key objectives were to cover multiple courts, allow for natural daylight to reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and integrate sports equipment directly into the structure.
Working with the head contractor to fulfil the architect’s concept design, MakMax Australia was tasked with delivering the full design, engineering, fabrication, and installation of the canopy. In addition to the main roof structure, the design needed to accommodate motorised drop-down basketball hoops, court-dividing netting, and protective perimeter netting to enhance functionality and safety.
The Materials
The canopy is fabricated with Hiraoka HG212 architectural PVC membranes. HG212 offer excellent light transmission (13%) and designed to provide outstanding performance and an aesthetically pleasing finish.
Hiraoka PVC membranes are manufactured with proprietary surface treatments for superior dirt resistance, outstanding durability, and UV blockout properties.
The steel structure was engineered to handle the large roof spans, high wind loads, and support the integrated sports infrastructure. Fabrication and painting were completed in partnership with local and international suppliers to ensure quality and durability.
The Result
The completed shade structure is both functional and striking, a versatile School COLA that enhances the student experience and supports a wide range of physical activities throughout the year.
The high roofline and open-span design provide excellent airflow and visibility, while the integrated sports equipment allows for quick transitions between different sports. Natural light filters through the translucent membrane, creating a bright, glare-free playing environment.
With its blend of engineering, design, and purpose-built features, the Aquinas College covered sports court is now a central hub for school sports and outdoor learning.
The Aquinas College Ringwood TensoSport has won the follow tensile membrane industry award;
- Winner STA Australian Textile Fabrication Industry Awards 2025
Tension Structures – Greater than 2000sqm
