Godfrey Hirst Awarded Clean Economy Grant for Circular Manufacturing Research

Godfrey Hirst is proud to be part of a new research partnership exploring innovative ways to transform carpet manufacturing waste into durable, large-scale infrastructure products.

The City of Greater Geelong has awarded $25,000 in 2025–26 Clean Economy grant funding to support a joint research project between Godfrey Hirst and Deakin University, with collaboration from the Advanced Fibre Cluster Geelong (AFCG). The project will investigate whether carpet manufacturing waste can be repurposed as feeder material for large-format 3D printing (LFAM).

If successful, the research could open up new opportunities for circular manufacturing by recycling carpet waste into high-performance composite products.

One potential application being explored is the future redevelopment of the iconic Baywalk and Barwon Heads bollards. Many of the existing 159 bollards were originally crafted from recycled timber salvaged from historic pier structures. After more than 30 years of exposure to coastal conditions, these timber bollards are approaching the end of their natural lifespan.

If the research and prototype development are successful, the ageing wooden bollards could be replaced with 3D-printed bollards made from recycled carpet waste — offering a solution that is stronger, lighter and more durable, while continuing the original vision of repurposing materials with local significance.

Using recycled carpet waste for future infrastructure reflects Geelong’s manufacturing heritage while embracing modern advanced manufacturing techniques. It also supports the City’s commitment to reducing landfill, promoting a circular economy, and extending the life of public assets through innovative materials.

Godfrey Hirst Manufacturing Manager Aaron Dawson said the project represents a practical step forward for sustainable manufacturing.

“This research project addresses one of the biggest challenges facing manufacturing today — how to keep valuable materials in use for longer,” Mr Dawson said.

“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. We’re proud to collaborate locally in Geelong on a project that could deliver real environmental benefits while creating long-lasting infrastructure for the community.” 

The research will take place throughout 2025–26, with findings helping to inform future applications for recycled materials across a range of industries and public spaces.