Roads & Infrastructure February 2024 by Prime Creative Media

FEBRUARY 2024

ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE AUSTRALIA

BETTER, FASTER, STRONGER

FEBRUARY 2024

The Australian-first use of a revolutionary product has supported works on the Melbourne Airport

WHAT TO EXPECT

Valuable insights paint the picture moving forward for machinery insurance

A ELECTRIFYING

JOURNEY How Komatsu’s portfolio of electric machine continues to grow globally

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FEBRUARY 2024 CONTENTS

COVER STORY

7 An electrifying journey Komatsu is using global expertise around electric machinery to introduce new technologies to Australia.

INNOVATION

13 Better, faster, stronger Works on the Melbourne Airport have highlighted the use of a revolutionary new concrete formula. 17 A key connection AI technology is boosting the accuracy and efficiency of road maintenance and inspections. 20 Energise the revolution Mobile charging infrastructure is changing the way people view electric machinery.

ROADS REVIEW

28 The next machine frontier How operators and fleet managers can take their company to the next frontier of technology. 31 Ambitious EV charging Viva Energy is looking to reshape the electric vehicle market.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

34 A wrap up of all of the latest personnel movements from across the sector.

INSURANCE

37 Critical insights Insights and expectations for the year ahead, concerning the mobile plant and equipment insurance space.

INFRASTRUCTURE PRODUCTS

23 Backing Australian made We ask industry how it can place a greater emphasis on the use of Australian made products.

40 Leading ground improvement Mainmark is revolutionising ground engineering and asset preservation.

TECHNOLOGY

43 The future of bituminous transport Tipco Asphalt is constantly evolving its transportation and delivery of bituminous products around the world.

25 In the pipeline What’s ahead in 2024 for the critically acclaimed Fill Up Today app.

MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

46 Years of innovation Decades of experience is helping CEA to develop the next generation of machinery. 49 Constant support Specialised Roading Equipment’s on-going support service is helping operators and fleet managers to maintain their machinery. 53 An iconic model TRT is celebrating the 100th sale of a iconic pick and carry crane model.

NATIONAL PRECAST SECTION

57 Innovating infrastructure The importance of practical and aesthetically pleasing infrastructure designs.

REGULARS

4 Editor’s letter 10 News 58 Contracts & Tenders

TRANSPORT

Below: Innovation and electric vehicle infrastructure are just some of the big focus areas of this edition of Roads & Infrastructure Magazine. Image: eLumina.

roadsonline.com.au

COO Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

PUBLISHER Sarah Baker sarah.baker@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR Mike Wheeler mike.wheeler@primecreative.com.au

EDITOR

STEP BY STEP INNOVATION IS RIPE across the sector, with many making waves in the electric machinery, Artificial Intelligence and sustainable material spaces, just to name a few. We’re highlighting this and more in the first edition in 2024 for Roads & Infrastructure Magazine. The February cover story gives us a chance to look further into one of the world’s leading innovators of electric construction machinery. Komatsu is making progress in its development of viable alternatives to conventionally fuelled machinery. We learn more about the company’s approach to this development globally and what it means for the future of electric machinery in Australia. eLumina is another that’s turning heads in the electric machinery space, focusing on the development of mobile electric charging infrastructure Australia wide. A relatively new company in the Australian market, eLumina’s international experience looks set to introduce new and flexible options to accelerate Australia’s adoption of electric machinery. Speaking of innovation, Fulton Hogan’s recent works on the Melbourne Airport have highlighted the use of what could be the fastest setting concrete on Earth. In collaboration with Concretum, Fulton Hogan has implemented a new mix of concrete, developed specifically for projects with shorter lead times. By using this product, Fulton Hogan’s works during the night have enabled traffic to navigate concrete surfaces that had been laid only hours previously. Roads & Infrastructure Magazine learns more about this revolutionary product and its potential. Tidd Ross Todd (TRT) is also celebrating the 100th sale of its acclaimed PC28 pick and carry crane range, a milestone that has been years in the making. Off the back of this milestone, TRT is also set to release its brand new PC28-3G model, which features the cleanest diesel engine in the world. Prepare to see what’s in store for the future of our sector and how you can benefit. Happy new year and happy reading!

Tom O’Keane tom.okeane@primecreative.com.au

JOURNALIST Chris Edwards chris.edwards@primecreative.com.au

DESIGN PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Weston michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Blake Storey

DESIGN Bea Barthelson

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Brad Marshall brad.marshall@primecreative.com.au

CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER Salma Kennedy salma.kennedy@primecreative.com.au

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+61 3 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au Roads & Infrastructure Australia is available by subscription from the publisher. The rights of refusal are reserved by the publisher.

ARTICLES All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Tom O’Keane Roads & Infrastructure Magazine

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

Roads & Infrastructure Australia is owned and published by Prime Creative Media. All material in Roads & Infrastructure Australia is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without the written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Roads & Infrastructure Australia are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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COVER STORY

AN ELECTRIFYING

JOURNEY

Komatsu continues to innovate in the electric machinery space. Image Komatsu.

LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY, KOMATSU HAS BEEN PIONEERING ELECTRIFICATION ADOPTION FOR OVER 30 YEARS. HERE’S HOW.

ith deep roots in delivering cutting edge equipment and technology for the construction and mining industries, Komatsu’s approach is underpinned by a desire to create a thriving and sustainable future for its customers and the industry. Charles Wheeldon, General Manager, Construction & Utility says Komatsu’s electrification journey dates back to the Komatsu’s PC210E is an electric alternative to conventional excavators. Image: Komatsu.

1950’s, when the company’s first diesel electric wheel loader was launched. “Innovating in this space is in our DNA, and as we look to the future, we’re excited to keep bringing new technology, and new machines to our customers that will work smarter and harder, while not impacting productivity or profitability,” Wheeldon says. HYBRIDS A POPULAR CHOICE In 2008, Komatsu introduced the world’s first hybrid hydraulic excavator in response to climbing fuel prices at the time. The 20-tonne hybrid excavator was also the company’s first commercial scale solution. This marked the beginning of extensive growth in Komatsu’s electrification venture and portfolio. Wheeldon says appetite is still strong for hybrid machinery on Australian worksites, with 190 now operating in the region, and over 5000 units globally. “We’re seeing a lot of interest from our construction customers, especially those working on major Tier One projects, looking to invest in hybrids for their fleets. The Komatsu hybrids are highly productive and reliable machines that also help our roadsonline.com.au

COVER STORY

Komatsu’s PC300LC and HB335LC excavator models. Image: Komatsu.

customers to align with ESG requirements contractually on site,” he says. “These units perform just as well as our conventional excavator, with similar high production outputs and power, while saving anywhere from 20 per cent – 40 per cent on fuel consumption depending on the application.” A STEP UP After a successful overseas launch of its three-tonne PC30 fully electric mini excavator and 20-tonne PC210 electric hydraulic excavator prototypes at bauma 2022, Komatsu’s gearing up for a big year in 2024. “These prototypes are a great indicator of where we’re taking electrification and when fully commercially launched, we’re expecting to see some great uptake with our customers adding them to fleets right across the country,” Wheeldon says. “While there is some hesitation around the infrastructure and technology needed to charge the machines on a construction site, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. “We are working towards solutions to make these a viable addition to fleets.” Wheeldon adds that while electrification is a big forward focus for the industry, Komatsu’s track record in the space stretches back decades. 8

“THERE’S ALSO A HUGE BENEFIT IN THE REDUCED MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS AND OPERATING COST OF ELECTRIC MACHINES. ELECTRIC COMPONENTS REQUIRE LITTLE TO NO REGULAR MAINTENANCE, AND FEWER MOVING PARTS AND FLUIDS RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT MAINTENANCE COST AND TIME SAVINGS.”

“Many people were surprised to be reminded that we’ve had electric machines in market for over 20 years,” he says. “It’s truly exciting to see industry really picking up the pace now on adoption of electric equipment, and to be able to continue to expand the range of machines we offer with electric power, without compromising on productivity.” Electric machines are quieter, producing less noise and vibration. This means the machines can continue to operate on noise restricted sites and operators are more comfortable resulting in less impact on the body. Komatsu is also working towards zero exhaust emissions and significantly reducing noise and vibration. Its excavators will deliver the same powerful digging performance and high operability as engine-driven excavators. “There’s also a huge benefit in the reduced maintenance requirements and operating cost of electric machines,” Wheeldon says.

“Electric components require little to no regular maintenance, and fewer moving parts and fluids result in significant maintenance cost and time savings.” “There’s a lot happening in the design areas of the business, and customers can expect more electric machines and technologies to be released soon.” Along with its construction machinery, customers will see advancements in Komatsu’s mining technology as it looks to support that sector towards a netzero future. Komatsu’s strides in electrification have already yielded impressive results. The company has sold over 1300 electric drive trucks in Australia and over 380 electric mining excavators globally, with demand continuously increasing. “At a time when we’re seeing skills and resources shortages, and pressure to comply with ESG guidelines, the electrified machines in our development pipeline have never been more important,” Wheeldon says.

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

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NEWS

The Rozelle Interchange aims to increase accessibility for local traffic. Image courtesy of Westconnex.

FINAL STAGE OF $16.8B WESTCONNEX NOW OPEN The Rozelle Interchange, the last stage of the $16.8 billion WestConnex project, is now open to the public. The Rozelle Interchange will link the M4 to the Anzac Bridge and the M8 to the City West Link and Victoria Road. The Rozelle Interchange also includes a toll-free bypass of Victoria Road, known as the Iron Cove Link and links to the future Western Harbour Tunnel. The interchange will provide faster access to the CBD and the inner-west for millions of people from west and south-west Sydney, as well as those heading out of the city to the west and south-west. Works on the Rozelle Interchange included 24.2 kilometres of tunnel excavation and included the installation of 185+ shotcrete and 100+ rockbolt courses

and the use of more than 190 tonnes of recycled glass sand, since construction started back in 2015. The Rozelle Interchange and Iron Cove Link have been constructed by John Holland and CPB Contractors Joint Venture, with the delivery managed by

Transport for NSW. The Rozelle Interchange is part of the $16.8 billion WestConnex Project which was jointly funded, with $1.5 billion from the Australian Government, and a $2 billion concessional loan, and with NSW Government contributing $1.8 billion.

INFRASTRUCTURE AUDIT COMPLETE FOR NT The Northern Territory Government has released the 2023 NT Infrastructure Plan and Pipeline and Infrastructure Audit, which will help to guide the Territory’s $4.07 billion 2023-24 infrastructure program. The Northern Territory region has $36 billion worth of projects in the pipeline. Image courtesy of the Northern Territory Government.

The infrastructure plan identifies projects and opportunities to enable economic growth and support population growth across the Territory. The Territory’s 2023 NT Infrastructure Plan and Pipeline and Infrastructure

Audit will be used to guide future decision making in terms of infrastructure for the region. The Plan and Pipeline has adopted the infrastructure investment prioritisation framework proposed in the NT Infrastructure Audit 2023 and considered implementation pathways against ‘reform’, ‘better or different use’, ‘improve existing’, or ‘new’ infrastructure options to inform infrastructure planning and investment decision making. The NT Infrastructure Plan and Pipeline will be updated annually to align with budget processes and to allow it to respond to changing conditions, challenges and opportunities. In June 2022, Infrastructure NT released the first NT Infrastructure Plan and Pipeline. The first edition moved from a sector based approach to a place-based approach. It clarified which projects are proposed and which ones are funded, and introduced an ecosystems approach.

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

Fulton H

Creating, connecting, and caring for communities Fulton Hogan delivers high-quality infrastructure to improve the lives of people in Australia and New Zealand, every day. Our 10,000+ strong team works in every kind of weather, creating, connecting, and caring for communities. After 90 years in business, we believe resilient infrastructure will help tackle the challenges of a changing world, and we will continue to invest and innovate to play our part. From asphalt, binders and aggregates, through to recycled pavement materials, we have been supplying top-quality construction products to the industry for decades. Our experience, combined with our wealth of plant and resources, gives us the technical knowledge and skills to provide a wide range of construction services. Fulton Hogan started on roads, and in the last 90 years we’ve gained vast experience across a range of sectors. We understand the extreme performance requirements of civil infrastructure and the unique demands on their owners and operators. We work collaboratively with our customers and design partners to safely deliver quality customer centric outcomes.

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INNOVATION

BETTER, FASTER,

STRONGER

Fulton Hogan’s works on the Melbourne Airport had to be completed at night. Image: Fulton Hogan.

FULTON HOGAN’S RECENT WORKS AT THE MELBOURNE AIRPORT HAVE HIGHLIGHTED THE EFFECTIVENESS OF RAPID-HARDENING CONCRETE THAT CAN WITHSTAND FULL LOADS AFTER JUST ONE TO TWO HOURS OF PRODUCTION. HOW DID THE PRODUCT PERFORM AND HOW DOES IT FARE AGAINST CONVENTIONAL PRODUCTS? ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE MAGAZINE FINDS OUT.

ulton Hogan started on roads, and in the last 90 years have gained vast experience across a range of sectors, including airport airside solutions. As Australia’s largest and most experienced provider of runway, taxiway and apron construction, upgrade and maintenance services, the company understand the extreme performance requirements of airport infrastructure and the unique demands on its owners and operators. Its latest works at the Melbourne Airport, through a new division focused on innovative projects, further adds to this legacy. Engineered IQ is a specialist division of Fulton Hogan, providing end-to-end solutions for projects that may differ from Fulton Hogan’s contemporary

construction portfolio. Nitin Sharma, Project Manager – Fulton Hogan, says Engineered IQ gives the company the opportunity to look further into project and product types that could be adopted by the wider construction industry. “At Fulton Hogan, we do a lot of construction projects such as roads and bridges. Engineered IQ looks at areas adjacent to construction, where we could provide a function or support to our normal construction process,” Sharma says. PROVING RESULTS One product that Fulton Hogan’s Engineered IQ division was interested in was Concretum® Q-FLASH 2/20, a rapid-

hardening concrete designed with airport pavements in mind. Having been used in Europe since the early 2000s, the product already had a proven track record of being able to withstand full loads after just one to two hours, with the open time able to be adjusted to suit. “We went out to try and find the best cement manufacturer for high early strength concrete. Concretum stood out to us because they had done a lot of work internationally. They were also working with a new compound that led to a lot of extra advantages. The support that Concretum provided was also very good – they came out to do some of the trials with us, providing their expertise so we weren’t just staring into the darkness,” Sharma says. roadsonline.com.au

“Some other manufacturers might say ‘here’s our product, here’s the price’ and that’s it. That technical background was something that we appreciated because it gives you more confidence in the quality of the product. I think the client can appreciate that as well.” An infrastructure rectification project at Melbourne Airport was just one project that popped up on Engineered IQ’s radar, where 144 airport slabs required replacement. Due to shorter time restrictions, the Engineered IQ team is using Concretum’s products to support a faster turnaround time for each individual slab. After expressing an interest in using the product, Concretum supported on-site trials by Engineered IQ at Fulton Hogan’s sites. Regular tweaks were made to the mix design throughout the duration of Engineered IQ’s on-site trials, with Concretum also providing expertise. One example was the difference in the mixes’ slump’. “A traditional mix might have only a 60-millimetre slump, which is normal for this type of pavement material. This is a proprietary product – we’re pouring from volumetric trucks, so you don’t want to have a really low slump mix because it could get caught in the truck and cause other issues,” Sharma says. “The last thing we wanted to do was to complete the project and have the surfaces cracking again in six months, let alone ten or twenty years. We want to deliver a long-term solution. [For this product] the proof was in the pudding.” Patrick Stähli, Co-CEO and COO –

Concretum Construction Science AG, says this support is considered standard for its clients across the globe. “To do a project like this, the support is very important. It’s important to have that understanding and to be able to speak the same technical language, to understand the people that you’re working with. That’s something that we’re really great at and some companies maybe don’t do as much,” Stähli says. “It’s also important for us that when we do a project abroad, that the producer of the concrete is also the one to place it down. They’re invested in the job, they want what’s best for both parties. That makes the job much easier.” Concretum’s process enables the company to quickly catch up to speed, creating a greater understanding of the client’s requirements, as well as any foreseeable geographical challenges. “That’s part of getting the project started, understanding the environmental conditions, properties, differences in raw materials such as aggregate and sand and so forth,” Stähli says. “We as experts can calibrate these factors at the beginning of a project to greater understand the challenges that our clients face. That way when we are supporting them on-site or remotely, we know what they’re talking about. We work very closely with our customers.” Felicia Nägele, Co-CEO and CCO – Concretum Construction Science AG believes the partnership has been “very valuable” for both parties, who she says see eye-to-eye on many aspects. “I think that we’re very much on the same level and understanding. Getting to

Fulton Hogan’s Engineered IQ division was founded for works with unconventional products and projects from its core infrastructure portfolio. Image: Fulton Hogan.

exchange with people from Fulton Hogan is very valuable to us, so if there’s anything that doesn’t go to plan, we’re informed,” Nägele says. “That goes both ways too. We can inform them on the logistics side, the production side or whatever it might be. It’s extremely helpful to have that open conversation and work through any problems.” Fulton Hogan’s partnership with Concretum will see the infrastructure provider become the only Australian company to use this range of Concretum products. “I believe that with Fulton Hogan we can see this product used across all of Australia and New Zealand. That’s my goal, to have this product used across roads, bridges, airports and wherever the contractor wants to reduce downtimes,” Nägele says. EIFERS™ AND THE FUTURE “The other side of the project was the physical side – ‘how are we actually going to put this into the ground?’ We acknowledged that we needed half a dozen volumetric trucks. We already had two at Fulton Hogan, but we had to work out where we were going to get the other four,” Sharma says. “It’s about searching for a company that can partner with you, who’s been working

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

INNOVATION

The use of Concretum products helped to increase the efficiency of the project’s delivery. Image: Fulton Hogan.

“IT CAN BE HARD IN SOME ASPECTS, FOR SOMEONE TO BELIEVE THERE’S A PRODUCT THAT HAS THE STRENGTH TO SIT A PLANE ON IT WITHIN JUST A FEW HOURS OF BEING POURED. ONCE WE DID THOSE PRESENTATIONS TO MELBOURNE AIRPORT AND SHOWED THEM THE TRIAL RESULTS, THEY WERE REALLY IMPRESSED.” with high early strength concrete for a while and has that expertise. That’s where Eifers™ came in.” Eifers specialise in time-critical civil infrastructure projects, with its experience making them an ideal construction partner in the aviation space, having completed several projects for the Melbourne Airport. “We had our partners on board, we had the product, now it was about going to the client and showcasing the results of our trials,” Sharma says. “It can be hard in some aspects, for someone to believe there’s a product that has the strength to sit a plane on it within just a few hours of being poured. Once we did those presentations to Melbourne Airport and showed them the trial results, they were really impressed.” Following the pitch and on-site trials, Melbourne Airport were happy for Concretum Q-FLASH 2/20 to be used. Works on the project were conducted

at night to minimise disruptions to airport traffic. From 10pm, each slab would be removed, prepped, poured, set and checked. By 5am, each slab was able to support airport traffic again. Sharma says it’s been “pretty seamless” for his team to adjust to using the product, which provides greater control over essential factors such as workability and setting times. “Some products that we’ve used in the past were going hard basically as soon as it came out of the truck; it was losing its workability. Whereas with Concretum’s product, we could adjust our admixtures and keep it workable for the range that we specified,” Sharma says. “We could have between 15 minutes or up to two hours of workability time depending on what we wanted. With traditional high early strength concrete, sometimes you’ve got to go hammer and tong straight away. This concrete has been really good in the sense that we’ve got time to do the work and still get the

strength that we need.” Fulton Hogan’s Engineered IQ are set to complete all 144 slabs by the end of February. Following the application of Concretum Q-FLASH 2/20, the team at Engineered IQ are considering future opportunities involving Concretum products. “There’re quite a few leads for us to potentially use this product on more projects. It’s been shown to be very successful in what we’ve done so far for the airport. We’re getting interest from other airports and even road projects as well. There’s traction and more people are getting on board because they’ve seen that it actually works,” Sharma says. Sharma adds that there’s plenty of projects in the pipeline for Engineered IQ, which he expects to grow considerably in the future. “We’ve got a few ideas growing that we think will be really good for the construction market, whether that’s internally at Fulton Hogan or externally,” he says. “It’s a really exciting time for the business division, because we have the opportunity to make it what we want. I like being able to innovate and show how something different could be beneficial to projects in the future. It’s really exciting in that regard.” roadsonline.com.au

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INNOVATION

A KEY CONNECTION CIVILTECH SOLUTIONS’ SERVICES IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT, ASSET INSPECTION, CIVIL DESIGN AND DELIVERY ARE ALL CONNECTED THROUGH ITS USE OF HIGH-TECH SOLUTIONS, HELPING TO PROVIDE SUSTAINABLE AND INNOVATIVE INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT.

he viability and effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) in the infrastructure and construction sector is growing at an exponential rate, with the technology constantly improving thanks to machine learning and development. For some however, hesitancy towards the use of AI stems from a lack of understanding, as well as the comfortability provided by traditional methods. But as the power curve shifts towards a greater reliance on technology, both public and private industry must shift too in order to remain up to date with the best that the sector has to offer. Civiltech Solutions, as well as its partner Cyvl.ai, are transforming the infrastructure space, developing AI integrated devices to increase the accuracy and effectiveness of infrastructure mapping and reporting. As Paul Clyne, Managing Director – Road Network Services explains. “In order to achieve great and sustainable outcomes for road infrastructure, we need data. Nowadays we can use AI in terms of defect recognition, so cracks, potholes, rutting and other aspects to see how that data is performing,” he says. “It’s about better planning, better programming and better forecasting. AI can give you a more accurate analysis of what you’re predicting. Rather than using a method that’s based on different parameters – and

Cyvl.ai and CivilTech Solutions’ sensor uses Artificial Intelligence and machine learning to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of routine road inspections and maintenance. Image: Cyvl.ai.

it’s still up to a human to decide whether or not there’s an issue – AI technology gives you a far more accurate forecast. “There’s a flow on effect to that too. It can lead to more accurate budgeting, more accurate forecasting and better use of resources for an LGA,” Clyne says. This approach is what the Civiltech team refer to as ‘predictive maintenance’, the process of detection and accurate data collection and application to prevent potential road defects from happening in

the first place. Leigh Carnall, Director – Civiltech Solutions, says that there are solutions out there for data capture. But without the ability to properly understand and use data, this information could be considered useless. “There’s a lot of technical solutions in the market today that are scanning and presenting wonderful pictures that look fantastic, but they’re not actually transitioning them into real outcomes for the end user,” he says.

CivilTech Solutions’ Artificial Intelligence services and products could help to increase the longevity of Australia’s road network through ‘preventative maintenance’. Image: Cyvl.ai.

roadsonline.com.au

INNOVATION

“They’re unable to join the dots for the customer around ‘well okay, what does this data mean for me in the field?’ What we’re able to do is join those dots on the technology, what it means for the customer and how to get a value-add outcome.” There’s also an important sustainability aspect for the use of AI and a predictive maintenance approach, as Carnall adds. “We spend an awful lot of natural resources, quarry materials and also public money building these assets, so you have to surpass the design life as a minimum. That’s where its important to have ways that we can measure the way that a pavement is deteriorating in order to make small decisions and fixes earlier on,” he says. “By making decisions earlier on we can get 40 to 50 years of life out of pavements. That’s of course a far more sustainable outcome than just getting to the end of a 20year life and then needing to reconstruct it.” HOW IS THIS ACHIEVED? Civiltech Solutions specialises in providing infrastructure consultation across a variety of services, which includes project management, asset inspection and management, civil design, drone surveying and data analysis. These technologies have already been used on major infrastructure projects across the country. The company’s expertise in software development has enhanced project delivery on works such as the Alice Springs Airport and the Arnhem Highway Upgrade. One of Cyvl.ai’s car-mounted sensors in action. Image: Cyvl.ai.

In recent years, Civiltech Solutions has grown on its relationship with AI technologies developer Cyvl.ai. Daniel Pelaez, CEO, Co-Founder – Cyvl. ai, says the US-based company is producing solutions that create desirable outcomes for all stakeholders associated with infrastructure development and maintenance. “We started to recognise the huge need that local governments have when it came to maintaining their roadways and their physical infrastructure. We developed a novel solution to help both governments and engineering consultant firms to capture data more effectively and faster while producing better results for these condition assessments,” he says. “We’re leveraging the latest and greatest sensors and technologies from the robotics space. We’ve recognised that this hardware was becoming less expensive and very scalable. We entered the market with a solution that was easy to implement, easy to afford and produced great results for governments and engineering firms alike.” So, how does this technology work? Cyval.ai’s sensor can be mounted to any vehicle, ensuring that the technology is easy to install and is non-invasive. Once installed on the roof of a car for example, the sensor – along with Cyval.ai’s AI algorithms – evaluate factors such as pavement conditions, pavement markings and signage. This information is able to be viewed in actionable reports within days, with the process of completing field surveys being ultimately 10 times faster than traditional methods. “This data can be captured across even an entire continent on a regular basis. Roadways are one of, if not the most, valuable assets that LGAs and state governments build and maintain. When they’re maintaining that, they need to make sure they’re spending their money wisely. The best way to do that is to have regular data points on how conditions are changing,” Pelaez says. “If you’re doing multiple inspections per year, it can provide an important insight into your billion-dollar infrastructure system to really predict when things are going to start failing. Instead of reacting to a major problem, you can predict it”. Civiltech Solutions and Cyvl.ai got together due to Carnall’s research into AI models and sensors, presenting a challenge to develop and introduce similar technologies into the Australian market and applications.

“There’re obviously roadways everywhere across the world, so we knew from the onset that this was a solution that wasn’t just going to be limited to our home country,” Pelaez says. “What I’ve learnt from my experience here in the US is that infrastructure is a little bit different from region to region. We’ve had to modify the AI model and retrain it a little bit. We’ve been using a similar process in Australia.” Pelaez adds that this transition hasn’t been too cumbersome, with a clear overlap of modern civil engineering construction techniques between the US and Australia helping to smooth the process somewhat. “We’re actually moving along quicker than what we initially expected,” he says. “What we’re doing now is working with Leigh and his team to capture as much data as we can across the country, across different regions to create a diverse dataset. That way we can do that final ‘retraining’. “It’s going very smoothly, Leigh (Carnall) and the Civiltech team have been great to work with. He really understands how important that data is to modify and implement an effective AI model.” From his perspective, Pelaez believes the hesitancy towards AI technology is slowly dissipating, with the benefits of the technology there for all to see. “The market has shifted in a really good way. It’s really starting to embrace these new technologies for infrastructure with open arms,” he says. “What excites us the most is that there’s so much room for improvement in this space. We’re just starting to scratch the surface here.” Civiltech Solutions and Cyvl.ai will work closely over the coming months to continue the development of the system, which both parties say is not too far away from widespread use domestically. “Leigh’s super passionate about bringing this technology to a space that really needs it. He understands this space better than anyone being a lifelong pavement engineer,” Pelaez says. “A lot of people are talking about this tech, but they’re not really embracing the technology. It’s people like Leigh that are really pushing the ball forward and transforming the industry. We’ve very glad to be working with them. “If there’s anybody as ambitious as Leigh out there, they really need to get involved, because we’re onto something big here.”

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

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24/10/2023 9:21:40 AM

eLumina’s flagship product – the D1 electric vehicle charging station. Image: eLumina.

ENERGISE THE

REVOLUTION eLUMINA’S MOBILE SOLUTIONS PROVIDE MORE FLEXIBILITY THAN CONVENTIONAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE. LISA MARSH, MANAGING DIRECTOR – SALES, EXPLAINS HOW THE NEWLY FORMED AUSTRALIAN COMPANY IS MAKING A SPLASH ACROSS THE MARKET.

ustainability can have its own meaning, depending on the company or the individual. For many, the objective is to accelerate the adoption and development of clean energy for widespread use. While most have set active targets and are showing signs of progression, few are actively developing the solutions that will help to achieve these goals. eLumina is pushing the envelope when it comes to the development of electric vehicle charging, all in an effort of establishing a clear pathway towards the nation’s net-zero emission targets by 2050. The relatively new company is the byproduct of international expansion, with eLumina’s products and philosophy centred around the learnings and developments of European technology. Despite this, eLumina’s roots are firmly placed in Australia. Lisa Marsh, Managing Director, Sales – eLumina, says that while the company understands that its moving into a highly populated and expanding sector, its points of difference will ensure that it’ll be a

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

name to remember for the future. Particularly when it comes to the company’s variety of solutions in flexible charging, as well as leasing opportunities. “Technology advances at a rapid pace, so if you’re buying all of this heavy machinery, those items could quickly become obsolete,” she says. “It’s very convenient to have that equipment under a leasing model, where you don’t have to make such a heavy commitment. When you change over your electric fleet, you’ll likely also change over your infrastructure as well. Fleets are going to rapidly change in this arena. A lot of companies are aiming to be electric, but they don’t currently have the infrastructure to support it.” Marsh says that one of the largest issues associated with current electric charging infrastructure is supply versus demand. A topic that the formation and growth of eLumina aims to directly address. “Australia has been really pushing in this space, we’ve been getting all of these charging stations out there, ahead of the customers

desire to buy electric vehicles. Then all of a sudden, especially in the last two years, there’s been a rapid uptake of consumers buying electric vehicles,” she says. “In some ways this has surpassed the old government’s existing infrastructure. Now this infrastructure is falling behind, there’s been a big shift. If we don’t move quickly with this, then we’re going to have a problem. “For upcoming events like the Australian Open and the Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne, they have all of these temporary parking spots, but how do you support electric vehicles when you have a lot of people all heading to one location?” eLumina specialises in producing mobile and flexible charging infrastructure solutions for a variety of applications and client requirements. This includes infrastructure suitable for shortor medium-term requirements for state and local governments, events, car manufacturers/ showrooms and much more. This focus enables organisations to be sustainable 24/7, no matter the location or context. “The majority of EV charging infrastructure needs to be hardwired into the grid, which means if you develop an electric vehicle charging station at ‘point A’ today, as your vehicle fleet grows, it may not be a convenient location in the future, due to growth or if you’re leasing a premises and need to move,” Marsh says. “Whereas our solutions are designed to be fully mobile, which means that your charging infrastructure is much more adaptable as your fleet grows. It’s certainly a good solution for a lot of places, especially where people are unable to get access to the electricity grid, or upgrading the grid is just not a viable option.” Although this technology is grounded on European experience and innovation,

Lisa Marsh, Managing Director, Sales – eLumina. Image: eLumina.

INNOVATION

eLumina’s products are being built for the Australian landscape and climate, specifically for Australian applications. “We’re the only Australia owned company to offer this technology. We’re Australian owned and – soon to be – manufactured. Our engineers, technical support, software and spare parts are housed in Australia,” Marsh says. eLumina’s flagship product – the D1 – delivers on this promise of “low input power for high output power”. The “super-fast” charger requires 10–40-kilowatts of input power to produce a combined charging capacity of up to 204 kilowatts, the D1 can be used in applications with a limited or unstable power supply, making it suitable for regional applications. The D1 is also capable of charging two vehicles at once, with users able to tap their credit cards to pay on the systems in-built EFTPOS machine. “Consumers are crying out for better and easier ways of interacting with charging stations. They go to a charging station these days to pay, and they don’t know which app they need out of the 100 that’s currently out there,” Marsh says. “With the tap-and-go feature, people can just tap and drive away.” As with eLumina’s other products, customers with the D1 unit can receive on-going after-sales support, through the company’s cloud platform, as well as its locally based maintenance and support teams. Included in this service is what the company has coined as its “swap-and-go” service. “In the rare event that one of our machines had issues or went down, we can deploy a truck anywhere in Australia to drop in a new machine and pick up the damaged charger, which we’ll take away and repair in our factory,” Marsh says. eLumina’s support is also present well before the finalisation of a lease or fixed charging option. “We have an on the ground engineering team that visits each prospective site, free of charge for the client. They’ll make sure that the site is feasible that it’s got the basic requirements like 10 kilowatts of power, that the ground is level to put the machine down and what-not,” Marsh says. eLumina’s engineering team can go out and do an analysis of an established site, incorporating factors such as the size of a vehicle fleet, where nearby parking bays may be and more. “They might say that the client may need a rapid charger for a specific vehicle, or four AC

eLumina’s team and the community celebrating the opening of a new charging station in Queensland. Image: eLumina.

chargers because those cars can be charged overnight, etc. It’s all about finding the best solution for them,” Marsh says. “We’re always trying to work out ways to lower the whole life cost of a company’s fleet. These chargers are a game changer because it’s decreasing the whole life cost for companies.” PIONEERING PERSISTENCE eLumina could be viewed as a pioneer, led by pioneers. As one of the few females in the tech and battery manufacturing space, Marsh says the industry has a lot to offer people from all types of backgrounds. “I’m excited about being an Australian owned manufacturing business. I’m also really proud to be one of the founders of the company, heading it up in an exciting space,” Marsh says. “As a female, there aren’t many of us in this space. It’s a space that’s open to all, doesn’t matter if you’re young, old, female, male.” She adds that the “rapidly moving” sector of technology and electric infrastructure presents a progressive environment for different perspectives. “At the end of the day, anybody can drive an electric car. Everyone is going to be a part of it, and everyone is going to be able to provide equal input and perspectives into the space,” Marsh says. “That’s where its different to a lot of maledominated industries, because its mostly males that are using those products, so it’s mostly males that have opinions.

“Everybody can be a user and therefore everyone has a good idea.” LOOKING AHEAD Despite only being in the Australian market for a limited amount of time, eLumina’s team has already received exceptional feedback from its initial trials, projects and showcases. “The feedback has been phenomenal. People love it, it’s very easy to use. We recently showcased our D1 machine at the eMobility Live Expo in Sydney, and the attendees were excited about the capability of the product. Some of Australia’s biggest fleet customers have already connected with us,” Marsh says. eLumina’s plans for 2024 are set to accelerate the company’s growth so far, with development continuing on its newest research and development/manufacturing facility on the Gold Coast due to open later this year. The company will also be looking to expand on its current cutting edge battery offerings, including larger options. “We’re already doing this overseas. In Australia, the plan is to continue the development of the ‘super batteries’ revolution for power storage. They’ll be able to support everything from apartment blocks, mining sites to small communities,” she says. “Power storage community batteries will be fundamental to us as a society, a community and a country. That will be a natural progression.” For more information on this technology, visit: eluminaglobal.com roadsonline.com.au

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ROADS REVIEW

THIS MONTH, WE ASKED THE INDUSTRY’S DECISION-MAKERS, ‘HOW CAN THE INDUSTRY PLACE A GREATER EMPHASIS ON THE USE OF AUSTRALIAN MADE PRODUCTS IN 2024?’ SARAH BACHMANN, CEO – NATIONAL PRECAST

Utilising precast concrete in construction here in Australia directly bolsters the local economy. Manufactured locally but away from the construction site in purpose-built factories, it also incorporates local and Australian-made materials. Being manufactured here reduces reliance on imports, fostering a sustainable and self-sufficient industry. Precast concrete that is manufactured by National Precast’s Master Precasters adheres to stringent quality standards, ensuring durability and reliability in structures, contributing to the nation’s infrastructure resilience. Choosing locally sourced precast concrete stimulates job creation and fosters technological advancements within the country. Additionally, it minimises the environmental impact by reducing transportation emissions associated with importing materials. Embracing Australian-made precast concrete not only guarantees superior quality but also strengthens the national economy and sustains local communities.

RICHARD BAILEY, GENERAL MANAGER, DESIGN MANAGER – MATTHEWS BROTHERS ENGINEERING As an Australian owned and operated business, this is a subject which is close to our hearts here at Matthews Brothers Engineering (MBE). I believe that from the perspective of the end user/contractors, more emphasis could be placed on those responsible for procurement, to identify Australian made products and recognise the distinct advantages associated with equipment specifically designed to cope with Australian conditions. This is further complemented by the availability of a range of additional services such as MBE’s Technical Support Hotline and overnight shipping on spare parts to ensure that the equipment remains on the road and earning its keep.

BILGEHAN KARABAY, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF ECONOMICS, SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS, FINANCE AND MARKETING – RMIT UNIVERSITY

Why should we care about Australian made products? Shouldn’t we be more concerned about the cost of the product rather than its origin? In this day and age, consumers are aware of other issues besides cost surrounding production such as labour standards, quality, sustainability and environmental effects. For example, knowing the origin of the product makes it traceable, which is important to verify that product and process standards are respected. Also, geographical proximity lowers shipping costs and saves time and energy. Finally, when there are backward and forward linkages in the economy, supporting local businesses can boost production and employment.

CON RIMPAS, CHAIR WESTERN AUSTRALIAN TECHNICAL COMMITTEE – AFPA

For the flexible pavement industry, we are in a fortunate position where we manufacture and supply our products using Australian materials and labour where we can. We have strong relationships with local suppliers to provide stability and encourage investment in production capabilities where possible. The specialised plant and machinery required to undertake our work is predominantly manufactured overseas, however the return on investment locally in the long term outweighs the initial spend by providing local long term employment opportunities for the community. Early engagement with project stakeholders and subcontractors for construction projects provides an opportunity for collaboration, new initiatives and technologies to be implemented in the construction phase, which will see a long-term benefit for Australia, and establish a best practice process globally. The industry must continue to work together to advocate for procurement policies which include this, that prioritise local economic return on investment.

ALEXIS DAVISON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ENGINEERING & PROGRAM SERVICES – ECOLOGIQ

We’re prioritising the use of locally made products through the introduction of the Recycled First Policy and ecologiQ program. This Australian-first initiative requires all contractors working on major transport projects to optimise their use of Victorian recycled and reused materials. This has led to the creation of a thriving supply chain for Victorian sustainable construction materials. OC Connections Enterprise’s (OCCE) Eco T-Top Bollards are a great example of the impact this policy is having. OCCE – a social enterprise providing employment opportunities to people with an intellectual disability and supplying 100 per cent recycled plastic traffic bollards - has grown significantly in since the policy was introduced, resulting in five business partnerships and $800,000 injected into the local economy.

If you or someone at your organisation is an industry leader and would like to be a part of this monthly column in 2024, please get in touch with Editor, Tom O’Keane: tom.okeane@primecreative.com.au roadsonline.com.au

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TECHNOLOGY

The Fill Up Today team have big plans for 2024. Image: Fill Up Today.

IN THE

PIPELINE

THE FILL UP TODAY APP HAS MADE AN IMPACT IN THE INDUSTRY SINCE ITS RELEASE IN LATE 2023. ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE MAGAZINE FINDS OUT WHAT’S IN STORE IN 2024 FOR THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED APP.

outed as the ‘ultimate resource’ for efficient material transport solutions, the Fill Up Today app directly connects drivers with those across multiple industries who need to fulfill their material exports and imports. Materials management is just one aspect that continues to be improved and developed within the app. Looking ahead, the app is set for new developments in 2024, with on-going upgrades focusing on increasing the growth and efficiency of the application. Daniel Strahle, Operations Manager at PACG (Patash and Civil Group) and new Product Manager of Fill Up Today says the plan of attack in 2024 is to drive growth and interest, capitalising on the applications strong launch. “Our main focus will be to drive interest straight through our social channels. We’ll also be looking to use the base we’ve developed in Victoria, which will

be another key focus of ours in the first quarter. After that we’ll start to push Australia wide,” he says. PACG is already well placed in Victoria, thanks to its long-term industry relationships from the civil construction side of the business. Another focus, Strahle says, will be nurturing a balance between subcontractors and businesses using the application, to create a consistent supply and demand for materials imports, exports, as well as drivers. “Ideally, we’d like to have a good balance operationally in terms of those ‘subbies’ versus businesses; that’ll be really important,” he says. “Numbers aren’t really what we’re focusing on, the main thing is having that balance. “For me personally, I’d love to have a level-based pool across the East Coast, if we could have Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria with a good mix of

companies and ‘subbies’ running at the same time, I’d be stoked.” AN AMBITIOUS OUTLOOK A key milestone for PACG’s Fill Up Today will be the opportunity to present the application to key industry players at the 2024 Sydney Build Expo, a construction and design show that features more than 20,000 attendees. Now in its eighth year, Strahle says the expo will present a unique opportunity for PACG Fill Up Today to get the application straight into the hands of prospective users. The expo will also be the first of its kind for PACG Fill Up Today. “That show’s in early May, so ideally we’ll be able to drive some traction before we head up there and start to introduce ourselves to others in the industry,” Strahle says. “It’ll be a case of breaking down the roadsonline.com.au

TECHNOLOGY

“BEYOND 2024, PATERSON’S LONGTERM AMBITION FOR THE APP IS TO SEE IT BEING USED IN MAJOR INDUSTRIES NOT ONLY DOMESTICALLY, BUT INTERNATIONALLY.”

The Fill Up Today app allows contractors to connect directly with drivers for material exports and imports. Image: Fill Up Today.

Jason Paterson was the driving force behind Fill Up Today’s creation. Image: Fill Up Today.

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

app for attendees and hopefully increasing the familiarity around our logos and the name.” Jason Paterson, Director – PACG, was the driver behind the initial development and concept of Fill Up Today. He says he’s been humbled by the external and internal reaction to the applications launch. “My experience and insight from the civil construction and transport industry motivated me to create the Fill Up Today app concept. I noticed a need that was not being addressed by the existing system,” he says. “One of the biggest achievements for the app and my team was to turn my ideas into reality and launch the app successfully. It was amazing to see my vision come to life in a functional app.” He adds that the focus has now shifted to maintaining the strong momentum that’s already been built around Fill Up Today. “What makes me thrilled about the future of Fill Up Today in 2024 is seeing it grow naturally,” Paterson says. “[It’s been great to] listen to the positive feedback from various transport companies while exploring the limitless possibilities of different applications that can be moved and tracked using the app.” CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT Hasith Jayatilake, Software Architect – Jeneva, is contributing to the continual improvement concerning the backend of the application. He says that while small fixes are on-going, there’s some big plans

in place for 2024. “A feature that’s been on our radar for a bit is letting the drivers know if there’s a job where they currently are via a notification. For the drivers, or the operations manager of the companies that they work for, it’d be good to be able to be subscribe to an area and say, ‘if a job pops up, just let us know’. That’s something that we’re nearly done building,” he says. “That’s on top of bug fixes and other improvements to the user experience – that’s something that we’re constantly working on as standard fixes.” Jayatilake says he looks forward to facing the challenges that will come with the growth of the platform, especially for catering a larger number of users across a number of states and territories. “It’ll be a good problem to have,” he says. “It’s also not something that we’re seriously worried about, as we built the platform in a way that it can scale rapidly to adjust. “There’s also a challenge in that the app will house a huge diversity of people who might have different expectations around how they can use it. People from the construction industry and the logistics industry will use it differently, so they’ll have different requirements. “We need to consider these different aspects as we grow, but these are also the kinds of challenges that we expect.” Beyond 2024, Paterson’s longterm ambition for the app is to see it being used in major industries not only domestically, but internationally. “My long-term vision for the app in the next five to 10 years is to expand to different countries and go global. I also want to create a customised product for each company that targets the top tier of the construction industry. Growing the Fill Up Today team is another major goal,” he says.

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THE NEXT MACHINE FRONTIER

Position Partners has rebranded to Aptella to better reflect its full range of technology and services. Image: Aptella.

MACHINE CONTROL AND ADVANCED POSITIONING SYSTEMS ARE NOW WIDELY USED ACROSS MOST CIVIL AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS. SO, HOW CAN OPERATORS AND FLEET MANAGERS TAKE THEIR COMPANY TO THE NEXT FRONTIER OF TECHNOLOGY?

ustralian businesses are typically more advanced in technology adoption than other developed nations. According to Josh Allan, Civil Business Executive Manager at Aptella (formerly Position Partners), new solutions are now hitting Australian shores that promise greater productivity and accuracy gains than ever. “We’re thrilled to introduce Topcon’s new machine control platform locally,” says Allan. “Next-frontier automation technology from Teleo is also getting a lot of interest and can be retrofitted to a wide range of heavy equipment.” A fresh arrival on Australian shores since late 2023, Topcon’s new MC-X range of machine solutions is now available for excavators, dozers, and graders. MCMobile solutions target compact machines, supporting multiple job stages with a single system. The MC-Mobile solution includes the Topcon LN-150 construction total station, 28

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

machine sensors and a versatile Android tablet. The tablet can be used in the machine cab and on a rover pole to set out and check as-builts. It can also be used with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning technology. “MC-Mobile has been designed with smaller owner-operators in mind,” Allan says. “With one solution, customers can easily design and set out a job. They can then check their progress to ensure it’s done right the first time. There is no rework and associated program blowouts.” For larger plant, Topcon’s MC-Max technology is available for all makes and models of excavators and a wide range of graders and dozers. The range features all-new control units, updated 3D-MC software and flexible componentry that can be swapped and configured to suit the application. DESIGNED FOR THE AUSTRALIAN MARKET Tried and tested in the local market, Allan

explains that the MC-Max system uses advanced processing power. Even more responsive sensors enable greater speed, accuracy, and reliability. “Topcon is a market leader in easy-touse software coupled with highly accurate positioning even at higher speeds and in challenging terrain,” Allan says. “This new platform is the latest evolution of this winning combination.” Topcon has made further advances in its material management portfolio, having launched a new haul truck app that digitises how contractors and quarry operators can track material movement without paperbased methods. The new Haul Truck app provides productivity statistics for each haul, including the counts, average distances, and time to complete the process. It can also automatically detect when a truck enters or leaves defined pick-up and unloading zones to ensure accurate information. Drivers come onto the site, quickly

TECHNOLOGY

enter basic information, and get to work. With 3D map imagery, operators can view where the load is picked up and the path to unload and return. This information is also automatically recorded for reporting purposes. The workflow provides full connectivity and automation between heavy machines and road trucks when used with Topcon’s excavator and loader scales. Aptella has designed a custom-developed reporting platform and is due for launch later in 2024. “Material management is such a critical aspect of any project,” says Allan. “To date, it has been under-resourced from a technology perspective with manual paper-based systems. Topcon’s loader and excavator scales, coupled with the haul app for trucks and enhanced with the Aptella reporting platform, gives managers complete visibility on material movement in near real-time.” REMOTE CONTROL SOLUTIONS Also new to the Australian market is Teleo’s remote-controlled supervised autonomy solution for earthmoving equipment. According to Allan, having announced a distribution agreement in 2023, customers have been eager to road-test the solution. Aptella CEO, Martin Nix, explains that automation is critical in addressing labour gaps and making construction projects safer and more productive. “With ongoing labour and skills shortages in the construction sector, there is more work to be done than there are people to do it,” says Nix. “Automation and remotecontrol solutions from Teleo will help our customers to increase productivity. One operator can operate multiple machines in a safer, more comfortable environment.” Teleo’s system can be retrofitted to several makes and models of machinery. It includes the company’s proprietary software and a remote command centre to operate the equipment. There is also a robust mesh network to enable two-way communication between the command centre and the machines. The kit incorporates state-of-the-art sensors, including high dynamic range cameras that deliver high-definition visibility and video footage day and night. Once a machine is retrofitted with Teleo’s technology, a skilled operator can control multiple machines at multiple sites from a single station. The technology brings the operator experience to the remote

All-new Topcon technology has launched for excavators, dozers, graders, and skid steers. Image: Aptella.

Teleo autonomy enables operators to control several machines safely. Image: Aptella.

command centre. It brings the sound and feel of the machine into the room as if they were operating it in person. “Autonomy has been talked about for many years, so it’s exciting to see a truly viable, tested option now available for the civil construction sector with Teleo,” Allan says. “Our early adopter customers are looking forward to seeing what it can do as we start to roll the solution out in our local market.” REBRANDING Alongside an all-new technology range, the company itself has undergone a complete

rebrand with the recent launch of Aptella. Marketing Manager Gina Velde explains that the change of name and brand better represents the full suite of technology and services the business now offers. “Our customer’s needs have evolved beyond positioning into the next frontier of technology, including automation, robotics and augmented positioning solutions,” she says. “The time was right to launch a fresh identity that encapsulates the spirit of how we work with customers to seek and enable the latest innovations from around the world that deliver real value.” roadsonline.com.au

MOVING TOMORROW, TODAY

WWW.SANY WWW.SANYAUSTRALIA.COM.AU AUSTRALIA.COM.AU

TECHNOLOGY

Image of a Shell retail site where there may be future potential to include electric vehicle recharging under the canopy.

Image: Viva Energy.

AMBITIOUS

EV CHARGING

THE RECENT FUNDING ANNOUNCEMENT WITH THE NSW GOVERNMENT FOR VIVA ENERGY TO BUILD A NETWORK OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGERS AT SELECT SHELL PETROL STATIONS PROVIDES THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO RESHAPE THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE MARKET.

ne of the biggest challenges to the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) is the lack of charging infrastructure across Australia. While state governments and private enterprises are working to rectify this issue, the scarcity of charging infrastructure co-located with places for people to rest remains an ongoing concern. There are a range of opportunities for the right businesses to integrate charging infrastructure with food, beverage and rest facilities. An ideal location for these would be the enormous number of petrol stations dotted around the country. Many already have food and beverage facilities for customers and their expansion

to incorporate rest facilities could revolutionise the uptake of electric vehicles across Australia. Viva Energy is one company working to shift the thinking around EV charging. It has entered into a co-funding agreement with the NSW Government for the development of a network of 30 EV charging stations across its Shell-branded network in NSW. The project is to be rolled out progressively over the next few years. This announcement will provide EV drivers with the most reliable, fast-charging option on the road. It will ensure connectivity between metropolitan and regional areas and help to address range anxiety for

Sandra Lau – Head of Hydrogen and EV’s – Viva Energy Australia. Image: Viva Energy.

drivers in NSW. The NSW Government is contributing $14.7 million to the project through round two of its EV fast-charging grants program, tied to Viva Energy’s commitment and progress in building out the network. Sandra Lau is the head of hydrogen and electric vehicles at Viva Energy Australia. She is the sort of person who likes to visualise problems as she tries to solve them. Sandra’s movement into the zeroemissions field came after completing a large project. “I completed an executive MBA at the Australian Graduate School of Management,” Lau says. “It is one of the roadsonline.com.au

TECHNOLOGY

Australia’s most ambitious hydrogen mobility project will see the development of a New Energies Service Station in Geelong. Image: Viva Energy.

real benefits of working for a company that is willing to invest in your personal development and help me move into a more strategic role.” She also felt that her problemsolving and engineering backgrounds were key to looking at the bigger and broader challenges around zeroemissions strategies. PIONEERS Viva Energy is working at the cutting edge of electric and hydrogen vehicles. The goal is to establish a customer-focused offer. “We want our EV drivers and hydrogen vehicle drivers to have a great experience,” says Lau. “We want them to become comfortable with the technology, and we can grow our activities in those areas.” To investigate that, Viva Energy has established its New Energies Service Station Project. It has partnered with customers to demonstrate the important role that hydrogen vehicles can play in decarbonising a range of industries. “Viva Energy is excited to start this build shortly, and we expect to be refuelling hydrogen trucks by the end of the year,” Lau says. “It will be the largest hydrogen refuelling centre, offering both 350-bar and 700-bar refuelling options. The station will also cater for electric trucks, with 150-kilowatt chargers in drive-through bays for trucks to use.” The goal is to help Viva Energy’s customers and the general public 32

understand the investment challenges, so they can think further on what vehicles they want to buy. Lau encourages anyone in southwest Victoria to come and check out this vision of the future once the New Energies Service Station opens for business later this year. “It’s a great opportunity for people to test vehicle types, assess them for their businesses, and investigate what their options are,” says Lau. PARTNERING WITH THE NSW GOVERNMENT The support from the NSW Government to collaborate with Viva Energy to develop a network of EV charging stations is critical. “We hope that these 30 sites will be fast, smooth experiences for the customers,” Lau says. “We want the payment system to work with ease, and the customers to have a positive experience in our service stations.” The project incorporates the installation of solar panels and batteries. There will be a minimum of four ultra-fast charge points at each site to minimise wait times for drivers and ensure maximum charger availability. Power from the solar panels will be supplemented by sustainable energy from the grid. This is to ensure the project provides emission-free power for EV drivers across a mix of highway, metropolitan and regional sites in NSW.

“Viva Energy has gone through significant change in the last year or so, as a result of several acquisitions,” she says. “We have just received initial approval from the ACCC for the purchase of the OTR group. This will allow us to combine an outstanding convenience offer with EV charging and other new energy offers. “In the end, it’s about helping people get to their destinations while providing the services they need. That includes market-leading food, beverage, and convenience offers.” Ultimately, it means that people can be on the road faster, whilst taking the opportunities that arise from having high-quality convenience offers during the dwelling time. That’s the time people are waiting for their recharge to finish. While there are challenges on the power supply side, Lau believes there are numerous opportunities for businesses to work together as partners to solve these challenges together. “I think the integration of EV chargers and petrol stations is going to be key to increasing the uptake of EVs,” Lau says. “One thing petrol stations have is a large footprint and network that people recognise. It’s a place where people are driving around and might need a top-up or have forgotten to charge [their EV]. The site locations of all these stations across the entire network is key to providing EV drivers with the knowledge that they can be serviced and charged on the road.”

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE HELPS YOU KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST MOVEMENTS ACROSS THE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SECTORS. HISTORIC APPOINTMENT FOR AUSTROADS Austroads has appointed Louise McCormick, Commissioner for Infrastructure for the Northern Territory, as Chair of the Austroads Ltd Board. This marks the first time in the organisation’s history that a women will lead the Austroads board. McCormick is a respected Executive Engineer, Chartered Fellow, and Senior Civil/Structural Engineer. She has previously served the Austroads Board as Deputy Chair. Her previous accolades include the Young Professional Engineer of the Year award for the Northern Territory in 2007, and the Winner of the 2010 Northern Territory Telstra Business Women’s Award for Innovation. She’s also only the second woman to receive the esteemed John Shaw Medal. The appointment follows the retirement of Neil Scales OBE in June. Image courtesy of Austroads.

ROADS AUSTRALIA WELCOMES NEW COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT Roads Australia has announced Alex Berry, Pre-Contracts Manager – VIC & TAS at McConnell Dowell as its newest member of the Future Leaders Committee (FLC). Berry brings more than two decades of transport sector experience to the FLC, having spent time working in both the public and private sectors as an Engineer and Project Manager. Additionally, Berry has an intimate understanding of the importance of the FLC’s work, having previously been an RA Fellow in 2019. Berry will replace Jane Ada and Hollie Hynes who have stepped down from the FLC following a highly successful year for RA’s Future Leaders streams across both the RA Fellowship and Emerging Leaders Programs. Image courtesy of Roads Australia.

CMY

NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE NEW SOUTH WALES The New South Wales Government has announced the appointment of Tom Gellibrand as the new Chief Executive of Infrastructure NSW. Gellibrand brings more than 25 years of experience in strategic urban, transport and infrastructure planning and delivery at the state and local government level to the position. Gellibrand has spent the past four years as Head of Projects at Infrastructure NSW and held several senior executive roles including Acting Chief Executive of Sydney Metro, Deputy Program Director at Sydney Metro, Deputy Project Director of North West Rail Link, and Deputy Director General at the NSW Department of Planning. His work has involved the coordination of the private and public sectors in the delivery of infrastructure projects, the development of land, and the provision of urban services. Infrastructure NSW provides expert independent advice to the NSW Government on the identification and prioritisation of critical public infrastructure. This includes oversight and assurance of the state’s infrastructure pipeline and precinct delivery. Image courtesy of LinkedIn: Tom Gellibrand.

NEW APPOINTMENT FOR MCCONNELL DOWELL McConnell Dowell has announced the appointment of Loren Hickey as General Manager Pre-Contracts for the company’s Australian Business. Hickey has a track record in new business and pre-contracts, having worked for more than decade in senior roles at John Holland, CPB and BMD. In addition to her professional background, Hickey brings vision and advocacy for a better and more diverse construction sector. She holds multiple qualifications and is a Director for National Women in Construction QLD, Infrastructure Association of Queensland, and the National Association of Women in Construction. Hickey replaces Harriet Christopherson, who now leads the company’s national rail business. Image courtesy of LinkedIn: Loren Hickey.

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INSURANCE

2024 is shaping up to be a big year for Underwriting Agencies of Australia and MECON Insurance. Image: UAA.

CRITICAL

INSIGHTS

SENIOR REPRESENTATIVES FROM UNDERWRITING AGENCIES OF AUSTRALIA SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS AND EXPECTATIONS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD, AS WELL AS THE LEARNINGS FROM 2023, CONCERNING THE MOBILE PLANT AND EQUIPMENT INSURANCE SPACE.

or many across the infrastructure sector, 2023 was a year of transition and adaption. Factors out of the sector’s hands continue to create escalation across the board, primarily driven by the supply constraints of parts, heightened transport costs from overseas, and a notable rise in labour costs. The mobile plant and equipment, as well as the construction insurance industries are certainly not immune to these impacts. But solutions are already in the works. Underwriting Agencies of Australia (UAA) is not shy to embrace challenges presented by fluctional escalation. With more than 35 years’ worth of intellectual property, along with an understanding of the current market, UAA is well placed to navigate associated challenges with the current economic climate. While reflecting on the year just gone, Stan Alexandropoulos – UAA Group CEO says 2023 was a year of internal progress and change, establishing a platform for 2024. One such highlight was UAA’s presence at the 2023 Crane Industry Council of Australia

National Conference and Exhibition. “CICA 2023 was, as always, a productive experience for UAA. UAA has been a major sponsor of the conference for well over 25 years and it continues to offer valuable opportunities to engage with clients and not only gain insights into the market but also share insurance market trends and information with our customers and the industry directly,” he says. “The event also sparked new ideas and strategies, particularly in enhancing our service offerings and leveraging our market presence more effectively to benefit our customers going forward.” For UAA, 2024 will be a year of broadening horizons, with improvements and internal developments to focus on ensuring that the company can provide the best for insurance claims services. “We are focused on expanding our technological capabilities and work environments. This includes a major office refurbishments and the introduction of state-of-the-art IT platforms to streamline processes and improve data management,

driving efficiencies across all business units,” he says. “This will encourage innovation, better management reporting and in turn greatly improve our service offering to our customers. “The UAA Group will also continue to explore growth opportunities in several global markets in Asia and North America in order to take advantage of over 35 years of intellectual property embedded in our business.” This will include further growth to the partnership between UAA and MECON Insurance, a relationship that has grown exponentially since the two company’s merged in July 2022. “[This includes] the continued integration of UAA and MECON, focusing on unified branding and marketing strategies. The UAA and MECON partnership will deepen, focusing on leveraging each other’s strengths to enhance market presence. The continued sharing of best practices will be key areas of growth, further solidifying our position as market leaders,” Alexandropoulos says. He adds that despite these internal changes, roadsonline.com.au

INSURANCE

Marc Crossman – UAA Group Strategy and Distribution Manager. Image: UAA.

Stan Alexandropoulos – UAA Group CEO. Image: UAA.

the needs and requirements of the sector remaining paramount. “Whenever a business undergoes transformative change, it runs the risk of becoming too inwardly focussed and neglecting the important fundamentals that drive it. This is something that isn’t lost on me and our management team, so we will continue to work on ways of improving our business but always with one eye on our customers and their needs,” Alexandropoulos says. TACKLING CHALLENGES Marc Crossman – UAA Group Strategy and Distribution Manager, says the next 12 months will not be without its challenges, but UAA is well equipped to cater for the evolving needs of the sector. “In 2024, one of the main challenges in the plant machinery insurance sector will be navigating the limited supply of new machinery and the consequent rise in the value of used machinery. It is critical that, when reviewing your insurances, insurers are accurately setting their insured amounts that are reflective of the market at that time,” he says. “This will likely see their values increase but it will likely mitigate the risk of being under insured and financially exposed at the time of a loss.” Legacy industry issues stemmed by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as on-going economic pressures, continue to linger. This, combined with the growing pipeline of infrastructure projects, will place a greater strain supply, demand and delivery. “With the surge in infrastructure projects across the country, there’s a 38

growing concern about the availability of experienced operators. We are addressing this by advocating for and supporting training initiatives, ensuring that safety remains a priority in all operations,” Crossman says. “UAA believe in proactively adapting to these changes, maintaining a balance between embracing innovation and ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients and their assets.” He adds that the constant evolution of technology will also present challenges and opportunities for the insurance space. “While AI can enhance operational efficiency and safety, its impact on the

“Cyber risk is not just about data breaches; it extends to the potential for operational disruptions, which can have significant financial and safety implications in the plant machinery sector.” Crossman says UAA is working to ensure that the impact of supply chain issues, as well as skilled personnel shortages can be minimised for brokers and clients. “In response to the supply chain issues and repair delays, we have strengthened our relationships with suppliers and repair networks. This enables us to expedite the repair process wherever possible, reducing downtime for our clients,” he says. “Our team is also continuously monitoring supply chain developments to provide timely updates and solutions to our brokers and clients, ensuring they’re well-informed to make the best decisions.” One way in which UAA is helping to address and cater for rising claims costs is the adaptation of the company’s risk assessment and pricing models, to ensure that they can reflect changes to the market. Transparency has long been a staple of UAA’s service, which Crossman said will be important in ensuring that clients can be aware of any required price increases. “Additionally, we’re enhancing our digital platforms to streamline both our underwriting and claims process, making it more efficient and user-friendly. Our dedicated support teams are always available

“WITH THE SURGE IN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY, THERE’S A GROWING CONCERN ABOUT THE AVAILABILITY OF EXPERIENCED OPERATORS. WE ARE ADDRESSING THIS BY ADVOCATING FOR AND SUPPORTING TRAINING INITIATIVES, ENSURING THAT SAFETY REMAINS A PRIORITY IN ALL OPERATIONS.” market is still being assessed. UAA is closely monitoring these developments to understand how AI integration affects risk profiles and insurance requirements,” Crossman says. Balancing the emergence of this technology while also addressing traditional challenges is a summit that’s yet to be climbed by the sector, he says. One such aspect is the growing threat posed by cyber risk. “As plant machinery becomes increasingly interconnected and reliant on digital technologies, the exposure to cyber threats grows. This trend necessitates a new dimension of risk management, focusing on cyber security for both the machinery and the data it generates,” he says.

to assist brokers and clients, offering personalised advice and solutions tailored to their specific needs,” Crossman says. “UAA have always believed in a partnership approach, working closely with our clients and brokers to navigate these challenges together.” Crossman says that despite these challenges, the team at UAA is still eager to embrace the opportunities that lay ahead. “2024 presents a unique opportunity for UAA to deepen our client relationships through advanced, sustainable, and customercentric insurance solutions. We’re excited to navigate these new frontiers and continue providing exceptional service and support to our clients,” he says.

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Teretek resin injection is a fast, nondisruptive and economical solution for re-levelling subsided pavements and structures. Image: Mainmark.

ROAD & INFRASTRUCTURE REMEDIATION EXPERTS MAINMARK HAS REVOLUTIONISED GROUND ENGINEERING AND ASSET PRESERVATION WITH INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES, PROVIDING EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE FORMS OF INFRASTRUCTURE REMEDIATION.

s infrastructure ages and the population increases, the strain on existing infrastructure assets will only increase. This strain sometimes exceeds capabilities, leading to necessary remediation and replacement. Conventional methods of infrastructure 40

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

rehabilitation often require excavation, leading to lengthy delays and interruption to operations, that not only extend the overall on-site programme, but also create significant inconvenience to the public. With over three decades of experience and knowledge in leading, developing

and delivering the most advanced and accurate ground improvement, re-levelling, and void-filling solutions, Mainmark specialises in minimising costs and disruptions, across residential, commercial, infrastructure and mining sectors. With over 82,000 completed projects

INFRASTRUCTURE PRODUCTS

Teretek resin injection process. Images: Mainmark.

STEP 1

Small holes are drilled through the slab.

STEP 2

Multi-component structural resin is injected. It expands immediately, filling any voids and compacting.

across Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the United Kingdom, Mainmark has built a global reputation for delivering innovative solutions to some of the most iconic projects in the world, earning international recognition as an award-winning ground engineering organisation. TERETEK® As the pioneers of Teretek resin injection technology in Australia, Mainmark has successfully grown its global presence over the last 35 years and today has 18 office locations worldwide. Teretek Resin Injection is a fast, nondisruptive, and economical solution for filling voids, re-levelling subsided structures and improving ground. Teretek Resin Injection is a technology that has been qualified, tested, and adopted by infrastructure authorities across Australia. Teretek materials expand in a controlled manner, allowing their targeted placement to fill voids, reconfirm support, and raise subsided structures with precision. One of the main benefits of this technology is its ability to restore serviceability to an asset quickly and economically. As soon as the repair is completed, the area can be reopened to traffic and full use. The use of Teretek is often utilised as a proactive approach to maintaining and strengthening assets to extend their life and minimise disruption to operations before significant deterioration sets in.

STEP 3

After re-supporting the slab, continued injection raises it.

The product is environmentally inert: non-toxic and does not leach into the environment or negatively affect the treated area. TEREFIL® Mainmark’s Terefil technology provides an advanced lightweight cellular concrete for soil replacement, large void filling, and pipe abandonment. Terefil is a highly flowable cementitious material that can be easily pumped over very long distances. It is an engineered, lightweight and strong product that is far more versatile than traditional bulk void-fill materials. ENVIRONMENT Mainmark’s innovative technologies and processes have a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional methods via efficient processes that avoid demolition, excavation, the creation of waste, substantially cutting down on production and transportation emissions. ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS Mainmark’s in-house engineers have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with various stakeholders throughout the infrastructure, commercial and mining sectors, including government and other major facility and asset owners and their engineering teams. Successfully delivering projects for airports, rail, ports, roads and bridges, heritage listed buildings, utilities, public buildings and mining.

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The treated pavement sections are returned to full operation immediately after the repair work, and no curing tine is required.

TEREFIL® FEATURES AND BENEFITS ADJUSTABLE DENSITY - Terefil can be tailored to a density range between 500 – 1,500 kg/m3, fitting diverse project needs. RELIABLE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH - Starting at 0.5 MPa, its compressive strength can be modified based on the desired density. RAPID INSTALLATION - With a rate of up to 40 m3 per hour, Terefil ensures a timeefficient installation process. QUICK AND CONSISTENT - Terefil sets in just hours and offers a self-levelling, highly flowable application.

TERETEK® FEATURES AND BENEFITS PRECISION RE-LEVELLING Teretek results in accurate lift or ground improvement beneath existing structures. MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCESS Teretek only requires small holes for the resin injection, resulting in low-impact solution for the structure. QUICK AND EFFICIENT Teretek provides a fast solution, minimsing downtime and business interruption. ENVIRONMENTALLY INERT Teretek resins are water-resistant, chemically stable and do not leach.

Mainmark’s innovative, non-invasive, non-disruptive and economical asset repair and preservation solutions proactively fortify and preserve infrastructure. For further information about Mainmark’s solutions and technologies or to talk to an expert about a specific project, visit www.mainmark.com roadsonline.com.au

TRANSPORT

THE FUTURE OF BITUMINOUS

TRANSPORT

TIPCO ASPHALT HAS CONSTANTLY EVOLVED ITS TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICAL DELIVERY OF BITUMINOUS PRODUCTS GLOBALLY. AUSTRALASIA IS ALSO SET TO BENEFIT, AS MARTIN BRZUSKA – MANAGING DIRECTOR, MARINE BUSINESS EXPLAINS.

arine transport has long been an extremely effective method of transporting bituminous product transport. But few have refined the process as much as Tipco Asphalt. Situated in 10 countries across Asia, the asphalt solutions provider continues to grow its presence in the Australasian market, in part due to COLAS, a bitumen provider and distributor, being a major shareholder. The company’s four decades worth of experience in Asia has led to further improvements and development of the Tipco Asphalt’s range of marine transport solutions. This includes the delivery of products such as bitumen, emulsion, modified

bitumen emulsion and premium modified bitumen. Tipco Asphalt’s vessel fleet capacity excels 40,000 tonnes deadweight, with each individual product having its own specific form and process for transportation in an effort to ensure quality prior to application. This is also backed up by a fleet of more than 300 asphalt trucks. As Martin Brzuska – Managing Director, Marine Business explains, marine transport has always been a focal point of Tipco Asphalt’s delivery service. “If you can transport 10,000 tonnes over distances to places like Singapore, Brisbane, Melbourne, Kwinana or New Zealand it turns into a great financial

result for us and likewise for our customers,” Brzuska says. “Customers can receive large volumes for the least amount of dollars so to speak. We’re looking forward to delivering even more.” Sustainability is also a core focus of Tipco Asphalt’s marine transport. While Brzuska admits that the transport of these materials isn’t yet net-zero, significant leaps are being made to minimise the carbon emissions related to materials transport. “We’re working to conserve greenhouse gases into the bitumen and later on using it for the road production. We’re using the least energy possible in order to extract the raw products,

Tipco Asphalt’s marine transportation services deliver a reliable and effective source of bitumen delivery globally. Image: Tipco Asphalt.

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TRANSPORT

meaning crude oil and the least possible amount of energy to transform it,” he says. “We are not burning it, we’re not wasting it, we’re actually keeping the carbon emissions and old greenhouse gases inside of this bitumen for later use in the construction of roads.” He adds that this also applies to the development of sustainable technology for marine transport. “In terms of how we’re polluting, it’s almost zero. We’ve looked into our energy conservation and factories, and they look good in comparison with others who produce fuels to be used as a proportion for either cars or other means of transport,” Brzuska says. “If we look to the future, fleet renewal, dual fuel engines or propulsion systems will continue to develop. It’s still yet to be seen what the main propulsion medium for marine transportation for some parts of the industry will be going forward. “If you think about five to 10 years from now, we’ll be transporting bitumen with vessels that might not be polluting at all. That’s part of our sustainability plan and strategy.” This includes Tipco Asphalt’s efforts to offset its carbon emissions through its several sustainability initiatives and strategies, as part of its Group Vision 2025, that aims “to deliver sustainable living for all societies with innovative solutions”.

This includes LNG (liquefied natural gas) fuelled vessels, a low-carbon alternative which can provide CO2 savings of up to 20 per cent compared to baseline heavy fuel oil. Tipco Asphalt recently took delivery of two brand new LNG fuelled vessels in March and July 2023 respectively, with both vessels already in operation. “These vessels represent the future, they’ve been awarded the green award/passport from the MPA in Singapore as the best technologically advanced bitumen carriers in the world. We will be renewing our fleet, technology is obviously advancing

and major shareholder COLAS to increase its presence and foothold domestically in Australia. “We’re working with SAMI Bitumen Technologies in regards to the transportation of aggregates from Tasmania to Sydney. Our on-going fleet renewal will have a further impact on extending volumes delivered to SAMI in Australia,” Brzuska says. “We know that Australia is closing some of its refineries and bitumen won’t be produced there, so infrastructure certainly needs to be extended and renewed, bitumen will certainly be a main source for this.”

“WE KNOW THAT AUSTRALIA IS CLOSING SOME OF ITS REFINERIES AND BITUMEN WON’T BE PRODUCED THERE, SO INFRASTRUCTURE CERTAINLY NEEDS TO BE EXTENDED AND RENEWED, BITUMEN WILL CERTAINLY BE A MAIN SOURCE FOR THIS.” very fast so we need to follow,” Brzuska says. Brzuska says challenges presented by on-going conflicts will continue to affect trading routes. But Brzuska says customers can rest assured that they’ll face minimal disruptions for any required bitumen deliveries across the world. Tipco Asphalt is also working with its partner SAMI Bitumen Technologies

Brzuska says he’s excited for these future developments, in particular the potential for further growth across Australia. “Looking at how we can extend our transport to the Australian region will be an important and big focus for us,” he says. “At the same time looking at how we can minimise the environmental footprint. “Developing our technology will also give us an edge to proceed further.”

Tipco Asphalt continues to expand its operations, as well as the supply and manufacture of bituminous products across Australasia. Image: Tipco Asphalt.

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ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

FARMERS

COMPANIES

OWNER DRIVERS

construction machinery that is utilised the world over. With the iconic 3CX model, introduced in the 1980s, the JCB backhoe range quickly became a global standard, showcasing a dedication to performance and versatility.” The story of the JCB backhoe began in 1953 when founder Joseph Cyril Bamford developed the first hydraulic backhoe loader. This revolutionary machine quickly gained popularity for its versatility and efficiency, transforming the construction industry. Over the decades, JCB has continuously pushed the boundaries of backhoe design, introducing groundbreaking advancements that have set benchmarks in the industry.

Employees celebrate the JCB backhoe’s 70th birthday. Image: CEA.

70 YEARS

OF INNOVATION

JCB MACHINES ARE COMMONPLACE ACROSS THE GLOBAL ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE INDUSTRIES. WITH 70 YEARS OF BACKHOE INNOVATION, THERE IS MORE TO COME.

n the bustling world of construction equipment, few machines can claim the iconic status of the JCB backhoe loader. With its distinctive silhouette and versatile capabilities, the JCB backhoe has become an indispensable tool for construction professionals worldwide. This year marks a significant milestone for JCB as the company celebrates 70 years of backhoe innovation. Glenn McLeod, the National Manager of Government Business and Backhoe Sales Manager, has been associated with JCB Backhoes for 37 years. Throughout

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

that time, he has been heavily involved in the JCB Backhoe range and its success in Australia. His intimate knowledge of the product and the industry requirements has ensured JCB retains a healthy market share in this segment each year. “70 years of backhoe progress marks a remarkable journey driven by the company’s focus on innovation and industry leadership,” McLeod says. “In creating the concept of the backhoe loader, JCB has produced one of the most versatile pieces of

A LEGACY OF INNOVATION JCB’s commitment to innovation is evident in the evolution of its backhoe range. Subsequent models have integrated cutting-edge technology, such as EcoMax engines, for enhanced fuel efficiency and precision controls for increased productivity. JCB’s focus on operator comfort, safety features, and sustainable engineering has also set benchmarks in the industry. In the 1980s, JCB introduced the iconic 3CX model, which quickly became a global standard for backhoes. This model showcased JCB’s dedication to performance and versatility, solidifying the company’s position as a leader in the backhoe loader market. “Celebrating seven decades of backhoe progress, JCB remains at the forefront,” says McLeod. “It exemplifies a legacy of innovation that has shaped the company’s success and significantly influenced the evolution of backhoe loaders in the construction sector worldwide.” A TRIBUTE TO EXCELLENCE JCB has unveiled a special Platinum Edition of its backhoe range to commemorate this momentous occasion. The Platinum Edition models will feature limited edition Platinum decals and a grille badge. They will have Platinum-coloured wheels. The cab will have an embroidered graphic on the carpet, upgraded seat material with 70th anniversary branding, and a steering wheel centre cap featuring the 70th logo. “Each machine will also have a plaque, and customers will receive a special complimentary Platinum gift pack with the backhoe loader,” says McLeod.

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

The platinum edition of the JCB backhoe includes limited edition decals and signage. Image: CEA.

THE KEY STRENGTHS OF JCB BACKHOES JCB’s backhoe range has consistently demonstrated its strengths in a number of key areas. The versatility of JCB backhoes is designed to handle a diverse range of tasks. It runs the gamut from excavation and loading to trenching and material handling. This versatility makes them indispensable on construction sites, where adaptability is crucial. “JCB has a long history of pioneering advancements in backhoe technology,” says McLeod. “EcoMax engines, advanced control systems, and ergonomic designs are just a few examples of JCB’s commitment to innovation.” JCB backhoes are built to withstand demanding construction environments.

Their robust construction and durable components ensure longevity and minimise downtime. “As a company, JCB prioritises ease of maintenance, with accessible service points and user-friendly diagnostics,” McLeod says. “This enhances overall efficiency and reduces operational costs.” JCB’s in-seat servo controls allow operators to work comfortably throughout 90 degrees, providing unparalleled comfort, safety, and ergonomics. THE FUTURE OF JCB BACKHOES As JCB celebrates 70 years of backhoe innovation, the company looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence. With a focus on alternative power sources, The JCB backhoes are designed for almost every environment. Image: CEA.

such as hydrogen combustion engines and electric power, JCB is committed to developing environmentally sustainable and efficient backhoes for the future. JCB’s backhoe range is a comprehensive solution for diverse construction applications. JCB is committed to performance, innovation, durability, and user-centric design. “If one thing’s for sure, the Backhoe Loader will be sticking around, and the product development will continue,” says McLeod. “JCB is currently well advanced with the dramatic development of alternative power sources. Zero-emission carbon dioxide hydrogen combustion engines are a key focus of JCB.” Working prototypes are currently under evaluation, with major production looking very likely in the not-too-distant future. “JCB has also developed and continues to introduce electric power into several product lines,” McLeod says. “Perhaps even a hybrid backhoe loader is possible, offering the ultimate in working range and reduced emissions.” There is no doubt that JCB will continue to evolve the backhoe loader for enhanced productivity and operator comfort, increasing productivity even further. “Who knows… maybe the JCB backhoe loader will be the first construction machine building infrastructure on the Moon or Mars. As with all JCB products, it’s all about innovation, not Imitation.” roadsonline.com.au

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SUPPORT

SPECIALISED ROADING EQUIPMENT’S ON-GOING SUPPORT SERVICE IS HELPING OPERATORS AND FLEET MANAGERS OPTIMISE AND MAINTAIN THEIR SRE MACHINERY, BOTH NEW AND OLD, THROUGH ITS SERVICING, TRAINING AND OTHER CUSTOMER INITIATIVES.

or many, only the best will do, particularly when it comes to the temperamental nature of spraying equipment. Support and servicing in this space are of extreme importance, especially with rising costs for equipment, as well as a high turnover of sprayer operators right across the sector. Specialised Roading Equipment’s (SRE) after-sales support and training services have flown under the radar. Support is one of the core pillars of SRE, an aspect whereby the company’s reputation continues to grow. Mark Wansbrough, Managing Director – SRE says that despite the company’s history of customer service, an emphasis on after sales support has grown in the past five years. “A big part of our success in New Zealand has been the ability to support our sprayers. We’ve put in place a service program where effectively we can fix issues and get the machine back to work on site as quick as possible, recognising that urgency is really important,” he says. As the SRE product range has expanded and grown within Australia, so has the company’s breadth of options when it comes to ongoing support.

SRE is able to provide maintenance and servicing on site or within its own workshop. Image: SRE.

SRE is able to service virtually any region across Australia and New Zealand. Image: SRE.

This support service encompasses three different models. The first is training and support for a customer’s own workshop staff, enabling its team to become selfsufficient when it comes to basic operation, maintenance and servicing. “The interesting thing is that typically in New Zealand, no one has their own workshops anymore, instead they outsource a lot of that stuff. Whereas in Australia it appears that a lot of businesses have their own workshops,” Wansbrough says. “So, we’ll come in and train those people up and increase their knowledge around our sprayers. The Australian infrastructure suits us because our customers get to know the ins and outs of the sprayers, even when doing their own maintenance. “We’ve gotten feedback around how much easier our sprayers are to maintain; they’re specifically designed that way. Our own service guys say the same thing and we’ve taken on feedback, refined our design and made it more serviceable.” SRE’s training programs for new sprayers aim to provide a thorough three-day run-through the basics of each individual spraying unit, helping operators of all ages to

catch up to speed. The SRE team is also happy to do repeat training programs at the same site, with the company understanding that retaining sprayer operators can be a difficult task, thus placing a greater importance on this knowledge transfer. “Our point of difference is the fact that we’re able to tailor the solution to whatever the customer typically wants,” Wansbrough says. “Some of our Australian customers were saying that there was no handover or training with other providers. Our whole attitude is around supporting the sprayer and operators throughout the entirety of that machine’s life. “We do a full handover to train people and bring them up to speed. On a sprayer’s birthday, some of our customers like to get us in to help them to go through the whole servicing and compliance process each year.” Wansbrough says internally ‘birthdays’ refer to the period in which a machine is recommended to undergo general servicing and upkeep to ensure its long-term effectiveness and operation. “From a compliance point of view, that process can get harder and harder. Therefore, the service requirements can be quite roadsonline.com.au

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

This picture and above: SRE’s team is able to make changes to a machine’s system remotely if required. Image: SRE.

significant, so effectively its quite a big birthday. We can provide a recommended worklist that’s also tailored to the age of the sprayer and to the litres that it has sprayed. This also covers what needs to be done on an annual basis,” he says. Wansbrough adds that these aspects are backed by SRE’s technology, which can provide real-time information and outlooks that can all be viewed remotely by SRE staff, helping to save valuable time for both parties. For larger problems or issues with machinery, SRE technicians can go on site to provide fixes to any issues or bring the machine back to a SRE workshop for larger maintenance works. “We’ve got remote access, so we can hook in and actually see what’s going on with the control system. We can see if it’s a sensor issue for example and we can run some diagnostic tests to see if anything’s playing up,” Wansbrough says. “We can also do a video call with the operator to have a remote look around the machine. Over 90 per cent of the time, we know what the issue is before we need to send out one of our team members to rectify the situation. 50

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

“We understand how valuable these machines and time is to our customers. They want to have confidence to know that we can send someone out at 3pm in the afternoon, fix it and have it good to go by the next morning.” The third and final aspect of SRE’s support service revolves around providing spare parts in a timely fashion, no matter where the customer may be in Australia. Every sprayer comes with its own essential spare parts kit in addition to the recommended parts held by the workshop. “When we get a workshop and the staff up to speed, we ensure that they’ve also got the basic parts that they need to support their sprayer,” Wansbrough says. ALWAYS THERE KEE Surfacing, Roadworx and Primal Surfacing are three companies based in Australia that use SRE’s products and support service. Teokotai Samuel, Manager – KEE Surfacing, says SRE’s support can felt on a daily basis. Particularly from Chris Kaelin, SRE Technical Manager. “Chris has been one of SRE’s strengths for

years, he’s always giving us the answers and support that we need,” Samuel says. “We take care of most things in-house, but for anything serious we reach out to Chris and the team. We haven’t had any serious repairs needed, but maintenance is the key to these machines.” Pieter Coetzee, Heavy Diesel Mechanic – Primal Surfacing, says the company has been a long-term SRE customer, with its faith being rewarded with high-quality service and machinery. “Even with the time difference, they’re always willing to help us. If we have an issue with their PLC system, they’ll dial in and fix it for us,” he says. “They go above and beyond. There was one time that Chris flew to Tullamarine Airport with a part that we needed, he gave me the parts and then he flew home. That wasn’t the only time he’s flown over as well.” Primal Surfacing has another two new units on the way, with the company looking to make the most of SRE’s support service to help integrate new operators. “Part of the deal was that they’ll come down for a week and train the operators on the new system,” Coetzee says. “They’ve really grown and taken our feedback on board while they’ve been pushing through into the Australian market.” Luke Hulme, Stabilising and Spray Seal Manager – Roadworx, says SRE’s support, despite being based in New Zealand, has enabled the company to receive spare parts and essential maintenance guidance in a timely manner. “The technology in these machines is quite complex, so some of it’s beyond what my workshop normally deal with. They’re obviously exposed to high temperatures and regularly exposed to corrosive products,” he says. “What’s good about their equipment is that they can access the computer from New Zealand. They’ve assisted us while we’ve been roadside with a crew in the middle of nowhere. All I’ve had to do is find phone service, ring them and the issues can be sorted.” SRE have also recently assisted Roadworx to deliver a retrofit of one of Roadworx’s existing spraying units, including installing a new crumb rubber bitumen pump, new piping and a new PLC computer system. “With Chris I can schedule for him to have four to five days with us, helping us out with maintenance, from calibration through to compliance,” Hulme says.

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MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT TRT’s team celebrating the 100th sale of its PC28 pick and carry crane model. Image: TRT.

AN ICONIC MODEL TIDD ROSS TODD’S (TRT) TIDD PC28 PICK AND CARRY CRANE MODEL HAS BEEN ONE OF THE SAFEST AND MOST EFFICIENT CRANE MODELS IN THE MARKET FOR YEARS, CONTRIBUTING FACTORS IN THE COMPANY’S 100TH SALE OF THE MODEL. THE TRT TEAM LOOKS BACK ON THE PC28’S EARLY DAYS, AS WELL AS WHAT’S TO COME.

ust over a year after celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017, crane manufacturer, designer and distributor Tidd Ross Todd (TRT) commenced production on the PC28, a model that would become a staple of the company’s pick and carry range. The PC28 has long been one of TRT’s greatest successes. As the natural successor to the PC25, the PC28 concept aimed to provide the highest quality crane in its class. Such was its innovative design and impressive output that Neil Webb – now TRT’s General Manager for Australia – immediately identified its potential. “As a crane expert with over 30 years of experience, especially in the Pick and Carry space, I was keen to test the TIDD PC28-2 on the road and on the job. I had never tried it before, but after a thorough quality check, I was amazed by its quality, innovation, roadability, comfort and lift performance. I immediately recognized that the TIDD Pick and Carry crane was an industry leader,” he says. “That experience was exceptional, especially when it came to the roadability, comfort and controllability.” Mike Harrison, Group Assembly Manager – TRT says the PC28 is the culmination of the company’s development, incorporating feedback from the industry.

“Over a period of about six years, it was clear that as things evolved and the market kept moving forward, that there was a desire for even more capacity,” he says. “That’s why, for even further lifting capacity, you can lower down the 2.3 tonne counterweight and pick up an additional 1.1 tonnes.” The ‘Superlift Counterweight’ for years has allowed operators to lift up to 12 per cent heavier loads in both pick and carry, a contributing factor to the PC28’s longtime success. To ensure longevity and stability with each

lift, the PC28 unit is also equipped with an upgraded front suspension, which has since also been made available as a retrofit to older models from across the PC range. This lifting capacity, when combined with the innovative and effective safety technology included as standard, helped to differentiate the PC28 model from other solutions in the market. So does TRT’s ‘Slew Safe’ safety feature. Introduced initially on TRT’s PC25, ‘Slew Safe’ was, and still is, a revolution to machinery control safety. Under the system, both the operator and the dogman are warned through visual and audible cues that they have moved into the red zone, restricting them from steering or slewing any further into the red zone.

The PC28-3G represents the next generation in TRT’s development of the wider PC28 range. Image: TRT.

roadsonline.com.au

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT Following on from the other PC25 and PC28 models, the PC28-3G will house a brand new Cummins engine model. Image: TRT.

This helps to stop the driver from ‘driving off the chart’, allowing them to correct the course of the crane back into the green zone, and also allowing them to operate all crane functions in the safe direction. The success of the technological features included on the PC28 has also led to further innovations across the TRT range. One example is the steering system used in the PC28, with that same technology allowing the company to develop and design its ESS trailers/electronic steering drivers. “That would never have happened if we didn’t have that understanding and foundational knowledge that we gained by building the PC28,” Harrison says. CELEBRATING THE ACHIEVEMENT TRT celebrated the sale of its 100th model in style, by combining all four of its sites across Australia and New Zealand – consisting of more than 200 staff – in a joint video call. For Harrison, he believes the crowning achievement has been the ability to get the PC28 in the hands of tier one infrastructure companies. “There’s been a relentless desire to improve. That’s some of the most common feedback that we’ve received, because TRT is a company that always listens to what the customers want next. The industry is constantly moving forward,” he says. “We don’t always get it right, but we’ve never stopped improving.” One way in which TRT ensures that it can keep improving is its fortnightly TIDD catchup, whereby staff members exchange ideas and feedback. “We have a fortnightly TIDD improvement meeting covering everything from customer feedback to potential improvements with the design team, engineers, fabricators and assembly personnel. That’s where the innovation comes from and that’s where the improvements are made,” Harrison says. “We’re a large enough business to excel at what we do, but we’ve still got the care and quality of a smaller organisation. We’re not like the big corporates.” Webb says the company’s emphasis on “sweating the small stuff” plays a key role in consistently exceeding customer expectations. “That’s probably the biggest thing that excites me the most about TRT, it’s our innovation and drive to continually improve. We build these machines, but it’s the customers that play a key part in big and small changes being made,” he says. Webb believes it’s the “people side” of 54

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

the business that has been really key in the success of the PC28 range and its eventual 100th sale. “It goes back to the people in our manufacturing facility. We don’t just assemble these machines, we manufacture everything in house and that’s what makes the difference,” he says. “[The PC28] has been a big journey for TRT and that celebration will continue. We’re always reflecting, because without reflection we can’t make that next step and a greater product. In saying that, it’s not only about the future. We’re always thinking about our customers in the here and now.” Webb adds that this passion and commitment for the best possible product won’t stop there either. “My vision is to see our business and our products thrive and expand. I look forward to the day when we will celebrate the 500th or even the 1000th PC28 sold. We are here to stay and make a difference,” he says. THE NEXT GENERATION Now TRT is ushering in a new era for the PC28 range, with the release of the company’s PC28-3G iteration. This model not only improves upon the lifting capacity when articulated (average of 17 per cent increase) and working on a slide slope (up to 40 per cent improvement), it has also seen the introduction of what is one of the world’s cleanest diesel engines. The PC28-3G is powered by a 6.7-litre 320 horsepower (238kw) inline six Cummins ISB6.7 engine, certified to the world’s toughest on-highway diesel emission standard, Euro 6, which achieves near-zero emissions. Despite impending Federal Government vehicle emission standard changes only requiring engines to satisfy Euro 5 regulations, TRT made a conscious decision to exceed expectations by employing a Euro 6 compliant engine. Harrison says the sustainability aspect is

one that he’s most looking forward to seeing evolve over the coming years as further developments are made to the PC28 model. “We’re not waiting until the last minute or trying to bend the rules slowly. We’re innovative, we’re on the front foot and we made this commitment early on. We’ve not only made changes to meet the new emission rules, but we’ve also surpassed those requirements,” he says. “We’re now competing in that market and an area that pick-and-carry cranes haven’t really stepped into yet. Yet we’re already doing it. “We’re not just doing the minimum for the customer. We’re trying to go above and beyond, to do right by the environment as well.” Webb says the Cummins diesel engine is still the best package for pick and carry cranes in Australia. “We didn’t just say let’s tick the box on Euro 5, but at the same time we also thought ‘how can we make our crane safer? What other features can we add?’ So, we added the Allison Transmission retarder, which is now standard on our new models,” he says. “Now the operator can have more control under braking, less brake wear and tear and there’s also reduced noise. We’ve improved the cranes performance on top of the new engine. That’s what we do, we want to continue to drive improvements.” Webb says he’s excited for the growth of the PC28-3G in the Australian market, as well as the long-term future of the TIDD crane range. “The production of the PC28-3G starts soon and we’re already thinking about the next big thing and what we can do better,” he says. “If every one of our customers are happy at the end of the day, then we’ve achieved what we set out to achieve, which is a crane that’s fit for purpose, safe, reliable and has TRT standing behind it as a reputable brand. “Nothing gets overlooked and nothings off the cards.”

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INNOVATING INFRASTRUCTURE

esthetically pleasing infrastructure not only enhances the visual appeal of our surroundings but also carries significant sustainability benefits for people and the environment. Welldesigned infrastructure tends to foster a sense of pride and connection within communities, encouraging greater care and stewardship. When people feel a sense of ownership and admiration for their surroundings, they are more inclined to support and maintain these structures, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent renovations or replacements. Two ventilation and service buildings at either end of the new platform 14 of Sydney’s Central Station boast an incredibly durable yet innovative finish that delivers a visual connection between the past and present. The buildings feature artwork designed by renowned Bundjalung artist Dr Bronwyn Bancroft. They are part of a $955 million transformation of the 117-year-old station, undertaken by Laing O’Rourke for Sydney Metro. It was one of the largest upgrades to be undertaken on Australia’s busiest railway station in decades. The contemporary representation of Connection to Country, ‘Time Travellers’, displays serpentine-like imagery that is symbolic of one of the many creation stories that have been handed down by First Nation’s people for more than 60,000 years. The artwork has been achieved using stained bricks that have been inlaid into 216 precast panels during the manufacturing process. National Precast Master Precaster Waeger Constructions manufactured the panels, while Industry Supplier member ECOTONE was responsible for the colourful staining, which resulted in a coloured glazed brick look. National Precast CEO Sarah Bachmann says that staining offers a modern alternative to painting and this project shows its versatility. “Infrastructure like the new Central Station buildings, is a prime example of one of the applications of the staining

Stain bricks inlaid into curved precast panels feature artwork designed by renowned Bundjalung artist Dr Bronwyn Bancroft. Image: Sydney Metro.

PROJECT: Central Station Metro LOCATION: Sydney, NSW MASTER PRECASTER: Waeger Constructions STAINING: ECOTONE revolution. In this case, the inlaid bricks have been stained, but in many other projects, the precast itself is stained – with or without using form liners to create pattern,” says Bachmann. “Traditionally used most commonly to colour correct brickwork and in more recent times cast insitu concrete, staining is now frequently used on precast as well to achieve amazing statements in colour, from translucent, to opaque, to metallic finishes. It is incredibly

chip over time, ensuring a longer-lasting finish that retains its vibrancy for years. Additionally, stains can be artistically applied and customised to achieve various effects, from translucent hues that reveal the concrete’s texture to more opaque tones for a solid colour. Stained concrete has another advantage of being more resistant to fading from UV exposure from weather conditions, making it a practical choice for both indoor and

“INFRASTRUCTURE LIKE THE NEW CENTRAL STATION BUILDINGS, IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF ONE OF THE APPLICATIONS OF THE STAINING REVOLUTION. IN THIS CASE, THE INLAID BRICKS WERE STAINED, BUT I KNOW OF MANY OTHER PROJECTS WHERE THE PRECAST ITSELF HAS BEEN STAINED.” durable and can be applied in the factory to maximise the benefits of off-site manufacturing, for both infrastructure and buildings projects.” As with brickwork, staining precast can be used to colour correct as it penetrates the surface. When used to its full potential, staining can create rich, natural-looking colours that blend seamlessly with the concrete, providing a more authentic appearance compared to paint. Unlike paint, stained precast won’t peel, flake or

outdoor applications. Its low maintenance requirements and eco-friendly formulations add to the appeal, making stained precast concrete a versatile and sustainable choice for architectural and design projects. “Staining precast offers a range of advantages that enhance both aesthetic appeal and durability. In this case, the end result is the look and feel of a traditional brick façade, but with all the efficiencies and durability of precast concrete,” Bachmann says. roadsonline.com.au

CONTRACTS & TENDERS

CONTRACTS IN BRIEF ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDES AN UPDATE ON SOME OF THE CONTRACTS AND TENDERS RECENTLY AWARDED OR PUT TO MARKET ACROSS THE AUSTRALIAN INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR. VICTORIA

Consortium awarded $3.6B SRL contract A consortium of CPB Contractors, Ghella and Acciona Construction has been awarded the first tunnelling contract for SRL (Suburban Rail Loop) East in Victoria, with the works valued at $3.6 billion. SRL East will create 8000 jobs and deliver six new underground stations at Cheltenham, Clayton, Monash, Glen Waverley, Burwood and Box Hill. The contract will see the consortium build 16 kilometres of twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley, with tunnelling set to get underway in 2026. Four TBMs will be used for this section, with each machine set to be powered by renewable electricity. The contract will also include 55 safety cross passages between the tunnels, station boxes at Clayton and Monash and the construction of portals – the entrances and exits to the tunnels – at the stabling facility. Construction is powering ahead across the SRL East corridor, with works underway in Burwood to build the TBM launch site. Most of the ground preparation works required to excavate safety cross passages between the twin tunnels will be managed underground. The two other bidders for the Cheltenham to Glen Waverley Package will now compete for the second tunnelling package between Glen Waverley and Box Hill, with that contract to be awarded in 2024. In a separate package of works, two consortia have been shortlisted to build the fleet of high-tech SRL trains, signalling system, and operation and maintenance of the SRL East network. This Linewide Alliance contract is expected to be awarded in 2025.

NEW SOUTH WALES

Contract signed for $700M Singleton Bypass The major design and construction contract has been signed for the Singleton Bypass in New South Wales. Acciona Constructions Australia has been announced as the successful contractor for the eight-kilometre project, which will bypass five sets of traffic lights in the CBD and is the largest road infrastructure investment in Singleton’s history. The highway passes through the centre of Singleton and carries around 26,000 vehicles, including more than 3700 heavy vehicles, each day. Traffic volumes are predicted to increase in the next 25 years. The planned bypass of Singleton would improve the movement of freight and journeys for current and future traffic demands. Early works on the project were conducted by Transport for NSW in late 2022, before additional early works ramped up in May 2023, which included installing fencing along

ROADS FEBRUARY 2024

the corridor, demolition of existing buildings and relocation of power and communication public utilities. This project forms part of the Australian Government’s wider $764 million dollar investment in projects along the New England Highway. Major work on the bypass is expected to start in mid-2024 and it is due to open to traffic in late 2026.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Consortium awarded $577M Canberra Light Rail contract Pacific Partnerships, CPB Contractors and UGL, which form the Canberra Metro consortium are set to finance, design, build and operate the second stage of the Canberra Light Rail. Canberra Light Rail Stage 2A will extend the existing light rail system by 1.7 kilometres from Aling Park to Commonwealth Park. The extension will provide greater connections to and from the city and will also support active travel in the city, with new cycling and walking infrastructure. People will be able to board a service every 5-15 minutes on the extended route, with the light rail vehicles having three times the capacity of a bus. It will provide greater connections between the city and the lake. It will also support active travel in the city by including new cycling and walking infrastructure. As part of the $577 million contract, Canberra Metro will deliver three new stops at Edinburgh Avenue, City South and Commonwealth Avenue. Canberra Metro will also deliver five new light rail vehicles, which are under production. These new vehicles will be pre-fitted with battery technology. Canberra Metro will also deliver an expansion of the existing depot. Under Canberra Metro, Pacific Partnerships handle sponsor and equity funding, CPB Contractors are responsible for design and construction and UGL take care of operations and maintenance. This is the third Canberra Light Rail package for Canberra Metro. Construction is expected to start in January 2024.

QUEENSLAND

Procurement begins on $174.7M Bundaberg East Levee The Queensland Government has begun procurement for an engineering consultant to help deliver the $174.7 million Bundaberg East Levee. The project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, will mitigate damage from a Burnett River flood within Bundaberg East, Bundaberg South,

and the CBD – without increasing flooding in other areas of Bundaberg. The project will help to safeguard homes and businesses, as well as support local jobs and economies. In the coming months, the project’s reference design – originally developed with community consultation in 2018 – will be further refined by an engineering consultant in conjunction with the Bundaberg community and project stakeholders. The reference design includes a concrete levee in two main sections, as well as floodgates, flood doors and pump stations across Saltwater Creek and an unnamed creek known locally as ‘Distillery Creek’. Input and consultation into the revised design will likely occur in early to mid 2024. Construction is expected to begin by early 2025.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Tender awarded for works on NT marine infrastructure The Northern Territory Government has awarded a $63 million design and build contract for works to upgrade facilities at the Mandorah Marine. The contract for the works has been awarded to Australian owned marine infrastructure specialist SMC Marine. Over 110 local jobs will be created through stage one of this project alone. The contract will deliver high-quality marine facilities at Mandorah, upgrading connectivity and community infrastructure. The project will include two new break water structures, enhanced disability access, a redesigned and upgraded carpark, a new terminal building and a new boat ramp, providing a calmer, and safer ferry berthing facility. This project forms part of the Northern Territory Government’s pipeline of over $500 million worth of marine infrastructure works across the next two years. Early preparation works on the site are underway, with the project team preparing to recycle the existing building to be used as a ferry terminal, with six local Indigenous sole-traders contracted through the Belyuen Community Government Council working on the project. The detailed design for the project is expected to be completed by Q2 2024 and construction to begin shortly after.

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