Manufacturing waste from Geelong’s carpet industry could be used in advanced manufacturing applications after the City of Greater Geelong voted to fund joint research into alternative materials for large-scale 3D printing, according to a council media release.
Council has approved $25,000 from its 2025–26 Clean Economy Grants to support a research partnership between Godfrey Hirst and Deakin University.
The project will examine whether carpet manufacturing waste, which typically goes to landfill, can be recycled into feeder stock for large format additive manufacturing used in industrial-scale 3D printing.
The City said the research will assess whether the recycled material could be used to produce durable products, including potential replacement bollards along the Baywalk and at Barwon Heads.
Many of the 159 existing bollards were originally made from recycled timber sourced from historic piers and have been in place for about 30 years.
The City noted that prolonged exposure to coastal conditions has brought these timber bollards close to the end of their expected lifespan due to factors such as rot, pests and fungal damage.
According to the City, if the prototype currently under development proves viable, future bollards could be manufactured using 3D printing technology with recycled composite material that is stronger, lighter and more durable, potentially reducing maintenance requirements while extending product life.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said the project aligns manufacturing innovation with the city’s industrial heritage.
“This project ticks a lot of boxes for us – it reflects our city’s rich history in manufacturing, it highlights where we are today in advanced manufacturing, and it contributes to the circular economy, and potentially reduces waste and landfill while preserving the legacy of our bollards that the community loves,” Cr Kontelj said. He added that he was optimistic about the research creating “exciting opportunities for local industry”.
The Advanced Fibre Cluster Geelong, which is also partnering on the project, said the research could demonstrate how manufacturing expertise can be applied to local infrastructure.
Chief executive David Buchanan said the organisation was “proud to support this iconic bollard project—working alongside our members to develop a durable, renewable solution that’s built for Geelong and designed to last”.
Godfrey Hirst Manufacturing Manager Aaron Dawson said the research addressed a key challenge facing the manufacturing sector.
“Exploring the potential to transform carpet manufacturing waste into durable, large-scale 3D printed products aligns strongly with our commitment to waste reduction and circular economy principles,” Dawson said, adding that the company was proud to collaborate locally in Geelong on a project that could deliver environmental benefits while supporting long-lasting community infrastructure.
