No-Dig Down Under gets bigger, better

NO-DIG DIG DOWN Under is the southern hemisphere’s only large-scale conference and exhibition dedicated to trenchless technology. Organised in partnership with the Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology (ASTT), the conference has grown to become the world’s second-largest no-dig technology event.

The technical program invites speakers from around Australia and the globe to present papers covering case studies, new and emerging technologies, challenging projects and environments, industry skills and training, risk management and more.

This year’s conference, sponsored by Rob Carr as a platinum sponsor, Vermeer Australia as a gold sponsor, Interflow, Rockpecker and Vivax Metrotech as silver sponsors, and Monitor Lifts and STEP Oiltools as bronze sponsors, will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12-14 September.

Continuing Professional Development, also known as CPD hours, can be claimed for attending the conference through Engineers Australia.

Training courses

Before the conference begins, a range of training courses will be available for attendees to build upon their knowledge of trenchless technologies.

Three courses will be featured at the 2023 event, with one focused on new installation methods, the second on horizontal directional drilling and the third on renovating pipes by lining.

Registration for these one-day training courses is available from $515 for ASTT Members and $615 for non-members.

Members can also earn CPD points for attending and completing the courses on offer.

Equipment on display

With No-Dig Down Under 2023 operating under the theme of “Better outcomes through trenchless”, the equipment on display is set to be the best of new and emerging technologies.

Pipe Core is showcasing various pieces of equipment at this year’s NoDig Down Under, including the Hächler Climbolino E electric milling robot and Picote battery-powered mini cleaner.

The Hächler Climbolino E is a compact battery-powered milling robot developed for present-day conditions in sewer rehabilitation. It features an electric milling spindle, blending capabilities and multidimensional functionality – all with the benefits and technology of heavy milling machines.

Elsewhere, the Picote Mini Cleaner is a cordless, battery-powered model that makes quick work of cleaning, descaling, root removal, cutting, reinstatements and coating in DN3275 pipes. It has a range of 16 m and also features an 8 mm shaft that allows working in smaller diameter pipes, multiple bends and p-traps as small as DN50.

The family-owned business, DCS Manufacturing, prides itself on being a local Australian-made manufacturer based in Dandenong South. This year, the company is showcasing its non-destructive digging (NDD) 8000 series hydroexcavation system.

The high-capacity system can also be used for cleaning wet wells, maintaining holes, pits and culverts, and general cleaning and removing any wet products.

“We are continuously striving to be at the forefront of design and user-friendly equipment for the Drain Cleaning and Hydro Excavation Industry,” the company says. “There are exciting times ahead for this family-owned business with many positive changes that will benefit current and future clients.”

Other companies such as Rob Carr, KRE Engineering, IMS Robotics Australia, OptionX Group, SECA, Access Detection and RSM Lining Supplies will also showcase their equipment at this year’s event.

ASTT Awards night

The ASTT awards are not to be missed, with the gongs to be presented to the winners at the ASTT Gala Dinner and Awards Evening on Thursday, 14 September. The award categories include: Rehabilitation Project of the Year: An award recognising innovation and advancements across technology, environmental benefits and occupational health and safety benefits in rehabilitation projects. New Installation Project of the Year: This recognises innovation, technological advancements, environmental benefits and occupational health and safety benefits in new installation projects using trenchless technology. New Technology: Machine, Tool, Material, System or Technique: This recognises a practical development of trenchless systems, or equipment that results in benefits such as improved economy, accuracy, speed of drive or replacement, ability to overcome difficult installations or similar.

Menno Henneveld Person of the Year: The award recognises an individual who has contributed to the trenchless industry in any activity area. It will identify a contribution over and above the call of duty to grow, develop and promote trenchless technology across Australasia.

Jeff Pace Young Person of the Year: This award recognises younger members of the Australasian trenchless community and their role in the industry’s growth.

Trenchless Woman of the Year: This new category recognises a woman who plays a leading role in the Australian trenchless technology industry and goes above and beyond their position.

New categories, new opportunities

ASTT President Ben Crosby said the ASTT is pleased to introduce this new category for this year’s awards.

“Trenchless technology has traditionally been a male-dominated industry; however, we are seeing more incredible women take charge within the sector and feel

No-Dig Down

Under will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12-14 September.

The design of the Hächler Climbolino E electric milling robot makes it the ideal tool for challenging construction sites and situations.

it is appropriate to recognise them accordingly,” he said.

“I look forward to celebrating these outstanding women, along with other industry stalwarts, at the ASTT Awards Gala Dinner.”

Tickets available now

A full conference ticket includes the conference program, catering, and all social functions, including the Gala Dinner and the ASTT Awards.

For all information about tickets, visit www.nodigdownunder.com/ register