Australia’s transport sector will soon benefit from global best practice
A special connection
Genuine friendship unites McDonald
Contracting and machinery provider TRT
New gear means new doors opening for Newpave Asphalt New
COVER STORY
6 New is in the name Newpave Asphalt is now the beneficiary of a brand-new asphalt plant at its Moree site in New South Wales, which is set to open its doors to compete for larger projects.
SUSTAINABILITY
10 Creating a low-carbon future
SAMI Bitumen Technologies is ushering in a greener future for the transport sector, with recent trials exemplifying the progress of sustainable road construction materials.
ROADS REVIEW
13 Roads Review
This month, we asked the industry’s decisionmakers, ‘What is one thing the industry should watch out for in 2025?
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
14 A call to action
R&S Grating is one of several grate manufacturers combatting what they say is an influx of unregulated, cheaper and noncompliant products.
INNOVATION
17 The pin-point process
Mainmark’s JOG computer-controlled, multipoint injection system is helping to re-level entire structures across a number of industries.
20 Convening for transport’s future
The National Transport Research Organisation is supporting global knowledge exchange around essential transport topics through its 2025 International Technical Conference.
23 A bridge, not too far
Reinforced Earth’s TechSpan precast concrete component is providing a simple yet sturdy alternative to conventional bridge and tunnel span structures.
MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT
26 Powerful, but measured Astec Industries’ new RP-175 and RP-195 F-model pavers are set to hit Australian shores shortly, following a highly successful introduction overseas.
29 Rewarding rollers
XCMG rollers have successfully paved their way on projects across Australia for nearly 20 years, yet the drive to grow remains a conscious thought for the international manufacturer.
32 A special connection
Tidd Ross Todd (TRT) and McDonald Contracting share more than just a professional relationship, with both companies representing a friendship that’s grown over 23 years.
35 MaxiTRANS takes on Freighter Group
Well known transport solution provider MaxiTRANS is parting ways with its old identity, transforming into Freighter Group, for a new era of sustainability.
38 Best of both worlds
Specialised Roading Equipment is now able to deliver a holistic spraying unit package, thanks to the wealth and strength of both its telescopic and fixed wing configurations.
41 From Africa to Australia
The Lintec CSD2500B Containerised Asphalt Mixing Plant is driving major infrastructure projects across four continents.
44 Never too late to learn
The renowned reliability and efficiency of Matthews Brothers Engineering’s road construction machinery is matched only by the company’s extensive training and support services.
ASSOCIATION SECTION
47 Advancing Sustainable Road Maintenance
The Australian Flexible Pavement Association releases its key insights from the 2024 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Forum.
50 Racing against time
The National Precast Association Australia shines a light on Ozcast’s latest works on Sydney’s new speedway.
EVENTS
53 Sharing municipality solutions
March 2025 sees the hosting of Municipal Works Australia’s 2025 Municipal Works and Engineering Conference at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds, in Bendigo, Victoria.
54 Converge: Construction’s one-stop-shop
Want to see what the future has in store for the infrastructure sector? Then welcome to Converge.
COMPANY PROFILE
56 SANY eMixer: Leading the charge Putzmeister Oceania is helping to turn the tide when it comes to the electrification of the construction sector, showing how effective, and simple, the transition to more sustainable equipment can be.
REGULARS
58 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.
Above: The latest technology, equipment, projects and events are all on show in this edition of Roads & Infrastructure Magazine.
REFLECTING ON 2024
WHAT A YEAR! THE SECTOR HAS CERTAINLY faced some challenges throughout 2024, but as we look back on the year in this edition of Roads & Infrastructure Magazine, it’s amazing just how far the industry has come in the past 12 months.
Particularly when it comes to the sustainability space, exemplified by SAMI Bitumen Technologies’ progress in sustainable product development. The company is making a renewed push for more trials in the field, hoping that examples and case studies will accelerate the sector’s transition to the use of more sustainable materials. These trials are also paving the way for greater exposure of sustainable materials directly to decision makers, through vital access to state government departments and road authorities.
The National Transport Research Organisation is also helping with this push, with the company’s 2025 International Technical Conference presenting an exciting opportunity for Australia’s transport sector to learn about best practice overseas. International delegates will flood into Australia for the conference, which looks set to lead positive outcomes sector-wide for years to come. Milestones and achievements will also be celebrated as part of the event, during a gala awards night.
Speaking of innovation, have you heard of Mainmark’s JOG Computer Controlled Grouting system? If you haven’t, make sure to keep your eye out. This new technology can inject cementitious grouts electronically in a simultaneous and precise fashion and can be adjusted depending on the structure at hand. Used for re-levelling and void filling, the JOG system is suitable for large-scale and complex projects, making it an ideal solution for significant infrastructure projects moving forward.
Also in this edition, we preview four key industry-related events that are taking place in 2025. There’s so much to see and learn, so make sure not to miss a single second by reading up on the events that are changing the sector for the better.
Leaders in the sector also paint a picture of how 2025 is shaping up, as they detail what they’re looking forward to the most next year.
This and so much more in the latest edition of Roads & Infrastructure Magazine.
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.
COVER IMAGE
Newpave Asphalt
COPYRIGHT
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.
NEW IS IN THE NAME
NORTHWEST ROAD SERVICES HAS PURCHASED A NEW INTRAME BATCH PLANT FOR ITS MOREE OPERATIONS, AS PART OF A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN IAN RICH ASPHALT AND NEWPAVE ASPHALT. BOTH PARTNERS ARE FOCUSED ON PROVIDING A RELIABLE SOLUTION TO INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS THROUGHOUT NEW SOUTH WALES, PROVIDING SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS RARELY AVAILABLE IN THE REGION.
Only the best will do. That’s the mantra of Northwest Road Services Asphalt, a company well known for its expertise in asphalt manufacturing, construction, testing and much more.
Servicing some of the most remote and harshest areas of New South Wales, the company relies heavily on machinery and equipment that can stand the test of time, in the toughest of spots.
Mark Gilson, Client Relationship Manager – Newpave Asphalt says the team needed a new asphalt plant for its Moree site, in northern New South Wales, leading to a search across the market.
A replacement was needed, and fast. It’s here that Newpave engaged Intrame, an asphalt plant specialist that’s been developing and delivering solutions across the globe for more than five decades.
With the scope of work requiring an optimum performance plant, Intrame was the first choice, with recycling options not available presently in the region.
“Northwest decided to invest with Intrame to support infrastructure delivery partners and the community, to provide ability to recycle products like crumbed rubber and RAP (Recycled Asphalt Pavement).”
The plant will give to the region a reliable, compliant, and lower carbon emission production plant.
An important aspect of the now strong professional partnership between the two companies was strong communication and transparency throughout the entire design and construction process.
This was particularly important when tailoring the plant to suit Northwest Road Services desires, with each of Intrame’s solutions uniquely crafted based on market and geographical requirements, as well as client requests.
Andrés Delgado, Business Development Manager – Intrame says it was imperative that the manufacturer understood the unique needs and standards of both Northwest Road Services and the Australian market overall.
“Newpave’s Moree plant represents a fully tailor-made design,” he says. “The main learning on this project was understanding distinctive characteristics of the Australian market which differ slightly from regions such as Europe.”
Newpave Asphalt is doubling down on its investment and support for infrastructure development throughout north-west New South Wales.
“Every market and location have their own demands. For this project we adjusted the plant configuration based on the valuable insights of Newpave, allowing us to design a solution that perfectly meets their expectations and local requirements.”
Developing and designing the new plant was not easy, but both companies worked hand in hand to find an agreeable solution.
Visits to Intrame’s factory in Spain by the joint venture representatives provided valuable insight into the plant’s development, allowing the team to also provide feedback. The final result being a product that meets exact requirements. “It is the best way to showcase quality and engage in in-depth discussions with our technical department, engineers and end users,” says Delgado.
“These visits allow manufacturers to thoroughly detail the production process, highlighting the quality of materials, design, and construction. They also provide a unique opportunity to understand the client’s specific needs and facilitate productive meetings with electrical and design engineers, ensuring that all critical details are addressed from the very beginning,” he says.
The collaboration with Intrame allowed for a custom-designed plant with features that combine the best technology from both continuous and batch plants.
Delgado says maintaining this open dialogue was crucial for addressing challenges and changes throughout the process.
“It was a collaborative journey built on mutual trust between both parties,” he says.
“NewPave’s team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and organisation throughout the project, particularly during the plant’s installation. It was a real credit to Geoff Cox, Gerard Digges, Dave Tonks and Josh Gamble from Newpave.
“We wanted to give them a perfect machine
changes to the designs over a six-month period is a small concession when considering the total time that it’ll be in operation.”
The new asphalt plant also represented a joint venture agreement between Newpave Asphalt and Ian Rich Asphalt, with the partnership allowing the companies to combine resources, expertise, and market access to better serve the Moree region.
BATCH BENEFITS
With services across asphalt, spray sealing,
Images:
Newpave Asphalt.
Newpave Asphalt has welcomed its brand new asphalt plant on site at Moree.
The new asphalt plant is set to open the door for Newpave Asphalt to tackle larger projects and tenders.
caters for a variety of project needs in the Hunter Valley, including works for the likes of Transport for NSW, as well as a number of local councils.
The company’s brand new Intrame plant is set to open the door to even more works.
The new Intrame asphalt plant offers a 140 tonne per hour capacity, while also providing greater flexibility when it comes to production methods.
“The Intrame plant is going to allow us to focus on the northwest region of New South Wales and focus on maintaining quality and compliance with our product,” Gilson says.
The Australian owned aspect isn’t lost on Gilson, who says it’s one of the facets of the business that makes him proud to be a part of the company.
“We display the Australian Made logo proudly,” he says. “It’s something that the Group is very proud of, that we are locally based.”
GROWTH ORIENTED
Newpave is always eyeing future opportunities, with expansion throughout the state and region now front of mind.
“The first plant was the first time that we’d worked with Andrés and the rest of
the Intrame team. The feedback is that they’re a great team and easy to work with,” Gilson says.
“The service, product and backup on offer really made it a no-brainer. These plants are specifically designed and with the many years of experience that our directors have in the industry, they knew what they wanted.”
The transportable nature of the Intrame plants allows Newpave to move the equipment if needed, providing more flexibility in their operations. This, paired with the company’s desire to deliver services to previously difficult to access areas, poses a positive future for the local asphalt industry.
“We’ve got a can-do attitude,” Gilson says. “We’re flexible, no job is too hard, and we’ve got a strong network of sites that ensure that no matter the weather or the project at hand, we’ve got the ability to find a solution.
“It’s a very adaptable team that are more than willing to do what’s required to get the job done.”
Gilson believes this continued expansion reflects the company’s strong presence and foresight within the industry, as well as its strong commitment to remaining a local and family-owned business.
“We’re in an exciting spot and we’ll be
leveraging partnerships with companies like Intrame to grow even more.
“Northwest Road Services is committed to servicing infrastructure maintenance requirements throughout Northwestern New South Wales. With the support of Ian Rich Asphalt and Newpave we have the experience and backing to get it done. Northwest Road Services is very grateful and appreciative of the support displayed by Intrame.”
Geoff Cox, Newpave Asphalt Director, says the joint venture with Ian Rich Asphalt was an essential cog in the delivery of the new plant.
“The foresight of Mr Ian Rich to invest originally in Moree was why we got involved,” he says. “Full credit to Ian in supporting the region”.
Gerard Digges, Director – Newpave Asphalt says future expansion presents an exciting time for the company.
“The second Intrame plant will shortly leave Spain with the addition of hot asphalt storage bins,” he says. “We have identified locations in regional New South Wales we believe require support for maintenance requirements.
“Our third Intrame plant will be ready early in the new year. The partnership with Intrame is strengthening and we are proud to be associated with them.”
Roadtec Shuttle Buggy ® SB-3000
Astec revolutionised the paving industry with the introduction of the Shuttle Buggy, and now the SB-3000 sets a new standard in material transfer vehicles. Effortless maintenance, unmatched performance, and four steering modes for ultimate agility to keep paving seamless. Experience groundbreaking innovation with the patented Ground Crew Control Station for the ultimate user experience and protection. The SB-3000 isn’t a machine, it’s a revolution in material transfer, built on Astec’s legacy of industry firsts.
BUILT TO CONNECT
LOW-CARBON FUTURE CREATING A
SAMI BITUMEN TECHNOLOGIES IS USHERING IN A GREENER FUTURE FOR THE TRANSPORT SECTOR, WITH RECENT TRIALS EXEMPLIFYING THE PROGRESS OF SUSTAINABLE ROAD CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS. EXPERTS IN THE FIELD REFLECT ON THE SUCCESS SO FAR OF SAMIGREEN CRUMBFLEX.
Carbon and waste reduction are just some of the driving principles behind SAMI Bitumen Technologies’ continued progression in the sustainability space.
Knowing that development alone isn’t enough, the company is making a renewed push for more projects in the field, hoping that examples and case studies will accelerate the sector’s transition to the use of more sustainable materials.
In January this year, SAMI Bitumen Technologies conducted a new project of its innovative SAMIGreen Crumbflex.
Stephen Bernard, Research and Development Supervisor – SAMI Bitumen Technologies has been pivotal in the development and testing of SAMIGreen Crumbflex. He’s driven by a personal desire to see more sustainable outcomes achieved quicker throughout the infrastructure and transport sectors.
“Part of the reason why I’m at this company is that it gives me an opportunity for a wider impact. I know that changes we make in the lab can essentially effect the entire country if we can get a great product out there,” he says.
“For me, it’s about pushing products like this out there to get more trials done, to get that field experience. If the Arctic ice sheets melt and sea levels rise by 20 metres, it’s not going to be theoretical, it’s going to be a state of ‘we need to do this now’. It’s so important that we’re ready ahead of time.”
Transport for NSW gave Colas the opportunity to trial its ECO asphalt with SAMIGreen Crumbflex product as part of works in Tomago, New South Wales.
Bernard says SAMIGreen Crumbflex is a natural evolution of the initial SAMIGreen product, granting improved sustainability outcomes when used in conjunction with conventional materials and techniques.
“SAMIGreen was initially developed with the idea of a 50 per cent carbon reduction,” he says.
“We already have a lot of experience with the Crumbflex product, which was developed in-house several years ago. It’s basically about taking those learnings and combining them with the performance of SAMIGreen. SAMIGreen Crumbflex just extends the product range even further.”
SAMIGreen Crumbflex is an innovative
polymer bio binder consisting of biogenic additives, crumb rubber from end-of-life tyres, and elastomeric additives.
It’s estimated that carbon footprint of this product is more than 50 per cent less than conventional A15E (polymer modified binder), while providing the same binder and asphalt properties.
Kanjana Yindee, Group Technical Manager ANZ – SAMI Bitumen Technologies says SAMI Bitumen Technologies has experts in the field, along with best-in-class facilities to conduct such testing.
“We combine our team’s expertise and extensive experience in polymer modification with the use of SBS (styrenebutadiene-styrene), renewable biogenic materials, and recycled components like crumb rubber in the binder formulation,” she says.“We did some tests by comparing the functional properties of the asphalt mix made from the SAMIGreen Crumbflex and regular PMB (polymer modified bitumen) before the trial and we didn’t notice any technical difference between the two materials.”
The main objective of the ATP was to offer innovation products to lower the
Images: SAMI.
Its latest trials show that SAMI Bitumen Technologies is helping to inspire the use of more sustainable materials for the transport sector.
carbon footprint without having detriment to the performance of the pavement. The team aimed for the highest amount of RAP it could get through the plant, safely managing 33 per cent, previously achieving 25 per cent in other mix types. This provided a result of 41 per cent recycled material in the ECO mix.
Lee Whitehead, Group Major Projects Manager – COLAS Australia says ECO asphalt was one of a number of proposals he put forward in 2023, with funding from Transport for NSW and the Australian Flexible Pavement Association supporting the project.
“The project was part of the Transport for NSW Asset Technology Program, where I had submitted a paper for the innovation of low carbon asphalt, which would not only reduce the carbon footprint compared to current asphalt mixes, but would also be equal or better in performance to the current prescriptive specified mixes allowed in New South Wales,” he says.
“The addition of SAMIGreen Crumbflex is one carbon reducing element to the whole asphalt mix design.”
TRIAL RESULTS
Having been present and overseeing the Tomago project, Bernard says the performance and outcome has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Everything’s been performing perfectly. As far as I’m concerned, the lab results in the asphalt have been really good and the field performance has been excellent,” he says.
“All of those initial questions that we laid out, we were able to answer and now package up those findings to pass on to relevant road authorities and local government areas.”
Another important aspect, on top of the product’s performance, was the user experience. Bernard and an R&D team were active in acquiring insights from the ground crew on site, to further learn how the product fared compared to other materials.
“We spent a lot of time talking to the crews, taking photos, closely observing to make sure it was a smooth process,” he says.
“It was very straightforward, they made it in the plant no problem, it was fine loading in the truck, compaction, field performance, they did their joints, they were able to transfer everything off, everything went fine.”
Yindee says the SAMIGreen range binder performed similarly to conventional binders in laboratory tests and field trials, with no significant differences in functional properties, showing it can be a direct replacement without compromising performance.
“The paving team also pointed out that the new binder flowed as smoothly as conventional PMB during discharging and laying,” she says. “Overall, the crew was really happy with the product, without the need for any changes to the mix design.
“The SAMIGreen range binder can be used without any procurement issues, allowing it to be easily substituted for conventional binders in sustainable projects. With a product like this, performance and a low
more than a trend, instead representing real and positive change. She predicts a positive future for the product, driven by growing market demand for sustainable solutions, the product’s ability to meet sustainability goals, as well as its competitive pricing.
“By working together, I believe industry stakeholders can make real progress toward a future where the environmental impact of road construction is minimised. Whenever a project needs a sustainable approach, or has sustainability targets, we can propose this binder without any procurement issues to the relevant road authority or contractor,” she says.
“It’s ready to be used straight away.”
SAMI Bitumen Technologies and Colas have considerable testing facilities and expertise that support its material innovation drive.
Colas had the opportunity to trial its ECO asphalt with SAMIGreen Crumbflex product as part of works in Tomago, New South Wales.
ROADS REVIEW
THIS MONTH, WE ASKED THE INDUSTRY’S DECISION-MAKERS, ‘WHAT IS ONE THING THE INDUSTRY SHOULD WATCH OUT FOR IN 2025?
MATTHEW
BERENI,
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER – TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
In 2025, innovation – especially through both traditional technology solutions and the rising use of Artificial Intelligence – will be pivotal for the traffic management industry. When properly applied, these advancements can make our industry safer, more resilient, and agile, allowing us to adapt more effectively to changing demands. AI, in particular, is transforming how traffic management companies are operated, and enhance overall safety. Companies that fail to recognise the importance of innovation risk falling behind, missing out on tools that can significantly improve their operations, both on safety and productivity. Embracing these innovations is essential for staying competitive in an evolving landscape.
Image: TMAA
JAMES FRENCH, SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST – TELETRAC NAVMAN
With growing pressure to reduce emissions, fleet managers will be looking at decarbonisation strategies as they navigate the complex shift to sustainability. The challenges of transition costs to comply with government-mandated sustainability targets will be watched in 2025. Helping fleet operators with this transition, Teletrac Navman’s consulting service and Electric Vehicle Evaluator (EVE) platform is guiding the drive towards net zero. The EVE’s Sustainability Dashboard provides comprehensive evaluation of routes, distances, times and available charging infrastructure, it also helps identify fleets that can be converted to EV or to alternative fuels, including hydrogen and biodiesel. Fleet managers see progress at a glance and can simplify reporting.
Image: Teletrac Navman
JIM APPLEBY, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER – HIWAY
At HIWAY we believe 2025 is set to be a transformative year for the infrastructure sector. With the energy sector rapidly expanding, we anticipate a shift from major urban projects to regional areas, which will challenge the industry’s mobility and skill adaptability. We also foresee a heightened emphasis on carbon reduction, with a growing acceptance and demand for innovative, low-carbon solutions. Lastly, the significance of productivity and value engineering strategies will be a strong consideration when tendering for work.
Image: HIWAY
If you or someone at your organisation is an industry leader and would like to be a part of this monthly column in 2025, please get in touch with Editor, Tom O’Keane: tom.okeane@primecreative.com.au
A CALL TO ACTION
R&S GRATING IS ONE OF SEVERAL GRATE MANUFACTURERS COMBATTING WHAT THEY SAY IS AN INFLUX OF UNREGULATED, CHEAPER AND NON-COMPLIANT PRODUCTS BEING MANUFACTURED OVERSEAS. COMPANY LEADERS EXPLAIN THE ISSUE AND THE CHANGES THEY’D LIKE TO SEE.
As the construction sector battles rising costs, the influx of cheaper, non-compliant grates presents a significant challenge for local manufacturers and regulators alike.
Industry leaders note that this issue has persisted for nearly two decades.
In an open letter to industry and government calling for change, the Australian Industry (Ai) Group states that the national market for grates and access covers is valued at more than $60 million. It’s estimated that over 20 per cent of these products don’t satisfy basic specifications and requirements.
The letter (Industry Issues with the Compliance of Grates and Access Covers), from the peak national employer organisation that aims to empower businesses across multiple sectors through representation, also states that upfront costs for international and imported grates are trivial compared to the lifetime costs required to replace these noncompliant grates.
Tim Hockham, Product Development –R&S Grating (an Ai Group member) says the importation of cheaper and inferior products threatens to bring an end to the domestic production of an essential infrastructure component.
“The market really exploded in the early 2000s,” he says. “That’s when a whole heap of competition entered the market because it was suddenly so accessible to get grates and other products from overseas.
“It’s not just the fact that these products aren’t being made in Australia. You can manufacture high quality grates anywhere. The issue is the lack of adherence to the Australian Standard AS3996, the standard for Access Covers and Grates.”
Hockham says products that are slipping through the cracks often have vague references to the AS3996 standard – particularly the load and strength requirements of the standard, which
The installation and distribution of grates that don’t comply with Australian standards can lead to greater costs and delays for taxpayers.
defines appropriate applications for each load class.
This can include labelling products as ‘medium duty’ but supplying products that don’t meet the loading requirements of Class C ‘Medium Duty’ as defined by the standard.
Steve Skinner, National Sales and Business Development Manager –R&S Grating, says the industry has acknowledged there is an issue, but he’d like to see more action taken.
“The industry started to realise the extent of the problem, which is why there was a push in 2016 to update the standard,” he says. “Previously the standard hadn’t been updated since 2006, so there were some outdated aspects to the specifications.
“The Australian Standard is a robust document that was developed in consultation with industry leaders, peak government bodies and other interested parties. Among other things, it provides assurance to consumers that grates manufactured to the standard can be expected to last at least 50 years.
“The reality is that many products in the
ground are garbage, but it’s still very tough for Australian manufacturers that are doing the right thing, complying with the standard and trying to compete.”
Hockham adds that in some cases, this is of no fault of the purchaser, but instead due to a lack of education in the sector.
“In the past decade or so there has been less enforcement, less regulation and less understanding of the standard,” he says.
R&S Grating is hoping for more regulation and action to combat non-compliant grates from entering the Australian marketplace.
Images: R&S Grating.
“There’s been a lot of confusion, and the waters have become quite muddied. As a result, the contractors that are purchasing these products tend to go for the cheapest option. And the cheapest option may not always comply with the standard.”
Hockham says R&S Grating routinely finds non-Australian Standard AS3996 products have been supplied into infrastructure projects, even though the plans for the jobs have indicated the products must be compliant.
He says there are a few simple but important steps that inspectors, contractors and distributors can adopt to combat the growth of grates that don’t satisfy specifications.
“The simplest thing to do is always check the labelling,” he says. “If you don’t see the AS3996 standard inscribed, the manufacturer’s name, the class rating or the product weight, then by definition the grate isn’t an Australian standard product.
“Also make sure to ask for the test results, make them prove their product is compliant,” adds Skinner.
“I’ve seen instances where contractors have had to rip their grates out and reinstall new ones because they’ve purchased non-compliant products. Some of these grates failed within 12 months, whereas our products are designed, manufactured and tested to the standard, in other words they can be expected to do their job for at least 50 years.”
Non-compliant products also have the potential to waste taxpayer dollars, with significant delays and costs as a result of having to replace and remove faulty grates.
Compliant grates can last many years, reducing the need for replacing or repairing road infrastructure, when compared to non-compliant products.
“It’s unfair on the contractor, it’s unfair on the taxpayer and it’s a waste of time and money for the regulator,” Skinner says.
Despite these challenges, R&S Grating has remained steadfast in its commitment to complying with the Australian standard.
“Since its introduction in 1992, AS3996 has been our guiding document, significantly enhancing the quality and safety of grates in Australia,” says Hockham. “Despite the rise in cheaper, non-compliant grates, we remain committed to supplying high-quality, compliant products.
“Competing with imported products is economically challenging, especially with many lacking AS3996 compliance. We take great pride in our 50 years of Australian manufacturing, which empowers us to innovate for the local market.
“We aim for a level playing field, competing with products that meet the same standards as ours. Improved regulation and enforcement would benefit both manufacturers and taxpayers, ensuring compliance with Australian standards.”
Ai Group’s open letter can be read at: https://cdn.aigroup.com.au/ Standards/2024/Ai-Group-GAC.pdf
UNLEASH THE POWER
JOG: TRANSFORMING STRUCTURAL RE-LEVELLING
MAINMARK’S JOG COMPUTER-CONTROLLED, MULTIPOINT INJECTION SYSTEM IS HELPING TO RE-LEVEL ENTIRE STRUCTURES ACROSS SEVERAL INDUSTRIES. JOE GLANVILLE, GENERAL MANAGER OF MAINMARK IN AUSTRALIA, EXPLAINS HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS AND WHY THIS APPROACH IS SO INNOVATIVE.
Since its foundation in 1989, Mainmark has been at the forefront of ground engineering and asset preservation, catering to various project types and sizes.
This isn’t limited to Australia. The company has completed many projects across New Zealand, Japan, and the United Kingdom, and more regions are expected to join this list in the next few years.
Building on the innovation of its ground engineering and asset preservation technologies, Mainmark has successfully delivered numerous JOG projects in New Zealand and are now expanding this expertise into Australia.
JOG Computer Controlled Grouting is a state-of-the-art, computer-controlled, multipoint injection system. It can inject cementitious grouts
electronically in a simultaneous and precise fashion, and can be adjusted depending on the structure at hand. As Joe Glanville, General Manager, Australia – Mainmark explains, JOG represents a significant step forward in the ground engineering space.
“The key difference between JOG and smaller-scale re-levelling solutions is the scale and complexity that JOG can handle,” he says.
“We’re not just talking about lifting a footpath or a residential home, but medium rise to high-rise buildings, large mining assets, and major infrastructure projects.”
The technology allows for the use of a cementitious-based material that can be programmed to have different setting times, from one second to minutes.
This enables both localised lift and
uniform void filling to support the entire structure.
It can handle a much larger number of injection points, ranging from 25 to 400, providing a larger solution compared to Mainmark’s other innovative offerings.
“One of the biggest advantages of the JOG system is the flexibility of the cementitious-based material we use,” Glanville says.
“We can program the material to set in as little as one second for localised lift and then switch to a slower-setting formula to uniformly fill the voids and support the entire structure.”
The computer-controlled nature of JOG allows for a more co-ordinated and gentle lifting process, distributing the load across many injection
JOG injection circuit installtion.
Images: Mainmark.
A JOG injection circuit.
points rather than concentrating it in a few areas.
“With JOG’s computer-controlled injection process, we can monitor the lifting of the structure and make real-time adjustments to the firing sequence to ensure an even and controlled lift.
“This helps to minimise any new stresses on the building or asset.
“With the ability to install up to 400 injection points, we can lift and support entire buildings, infrastructure assets, and mining facilities in a controlled and gentle manner.”
INDUSTRY ADOPTION
Glanville says JOG represents a technique that could be considered more “engineer friendly”.
This is due to using a cementitiousbased material, which is more familiar and comfortable for engineers and customers.
“The material properties, such as the strength between 1-3 MPa (megapascal), are well-understood by the industry,” he says.
The cementitious-based material used in JOG also has no known issues with degradation or breakdown over time.
Depending on the project, the system can be designed to meet specific durability requirements, such as a 20-year or 50-year design life.
Mainmark used JOG technology on the New Zealand Christchurch Art Gallery project, earning it the International Project of the Year Award at the 2016 Ground
Engineering Awards. Glanville says this acknowledgement shows just how effective JOG – as well as the company’s other asset
winning work on the art gallery and the upcoming Department of Education building, demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of this technology,” he says.
“We are excited to continue innovating and refining JOG to meet the evolving needs of our customers in the infrastructure, mining, and commercial sectors.”
This system has already been identified internally as a flagship method for the future, with Glanville saying JOG will be a primary focus as the company eyes further growth worldwide.
“Over the next few years, we plan to further develop the system to make it even less invasive and more automated while maintaining the high level of control and precision that our customers have come to expect,” Glanville says.
“Over the past few years, we have made significant strides in developing and optimising the JOG system, drawing on our global experience and expertise.
“We are now well-positioned to expand the reach of this technology further and solidify Mainmark’s position
Programming the JOG central control unit.
CONVENING
FOR TRANSPORT’S FUTURE
THE NATIONAL TRANSPORT RESEARCH ORGANISATION (NTRO) IS SUPPORTING GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AROUND ESSENTIAL TRANSPORT TOPICS THROUGH ITS 2025 INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL CONFERENCE. CONFERENCE CONVENOR AND NTRO CHIEF RESEARCH OFFICER DR MIKE SHACKLETON SITS DOWN WITH ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE TO PREVIEW THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EVENT.
Creating a community of practice around the latest innovations and solutions in the transport sector is just one of the core functions of the National Transport and Research Organisation (NTRO).
As a well-known entity in Australia’s transport landscape, the NTRO’s innovative research and practical solutions have helped the sector to evolve over time. Now, more than ever, the NTRO is also aspiring to make a global impact, supporting and participating in international projects concerning all modes of transport, including roads, rail, ports and airports.
NTRO Chief Research Officer Dr Mike Shackleton says the NTRO has always had one eye on its international counterparts to ensure that Australia’s transport solutions are embracing best-practice.
“We’re really the hub of innovation in
considered as such globally,” he says.
“We’re totally innovation driven, it’s in our DNA.
“We can’t take the easy route when it comes to what’s required for the transport sector. To find the best solutions means that we’ll need to share and learn what the world has done. We can’t do it alone.”
As part of this focus on achieving best-practice, the NTRO often welcomes international delegates to its domestic sites, while also attending international events to learn what Australia is doing well, as well as the areas in which it can grow.
Now the NTRO is hoping to bring even more international innovation to Australia’s shores through its 2025 International Technical Conference.
The conference invites international experts from countries and regions such as China, Tonga, and the subcontinent to share their experiences, challenges, and
New Zealand attendees to learn from global best practice.
It’s for this reason that networking and information exchange will form a fundamental part of the 2025 International Technical Conference, allowing for a deeper sharing of knowledge and potential collaboration opportunities.
By bringing together diverse perspectives from different countries, the NTRO aims to present new ideas and solutions that may not have been considered before. Shackleton says it’s these kinds of opportunities and events that can lead to more innovative approaches.
“The conference aims to be more interactive, with keynote speakers, workshops, and invited speakers to encourage direct conversations and learning between participants,” he says.
This also means moving away from traditional paper presentations and instead focusing on interactive sessions, workshops, and invited speakers.
GREENER DISCUSSIONS
A key feature of the NTRO’s International Technical Conference will be sessions on the resilience of infrastructure, particularly in the face of recent climate-related challenges such as flooding and other severe weather events.
This will include showcasing technologies like the NTRO’s iPAVE, a worldfirst technology, used to assess the condition of roads below the surface and identify issues that may not be visible, allowing for targeted and costeffective maintenance.
Left: The National Transport and Research Organisation’s (NTRO) 2025 International Technical Conference will see delegates from right across the globe hit Australian shores.
Another key focus will be sustainable materials and design, such as recycled materials and technologies like crumb rubber, to improve the performance and longevity of road infrastructure.
“We’ve got to make sure that we’re getting the most out of the time and money that we’re putting into our roads. I think it’s a mistake to try and adapt the system and wedge new technologies into it,” Shackleton says. “It’s about industry and government working together to work out what is the optimum transport system that allows us to take full advantage of connected vehicles, electric vehicles, active transport and more.
“By showcasing these types of innovations and solutions, we aim to provide attendees with practical knowledge and insights that can be applied to improve road safety and infrastructure resilience in their own contexts.”
Shackleton says the 2025 International Technical Conference will also cover the topical issue of smart pavement designs, ensuring that concepts are cost-effective, but still delivering the required levels of service and performance.
As Shackleton mentions, another key area that will be addressed is road safety, looking at ways that Australia and other countries around the world can turn around the current road safety trends. He adds that an important part of this process will be looking at the “missing ingredients” and what can be done differently.
“The current road death toll is unacceptable,” he says. “We can’t just sit here, hoping that something is going to change. We’ve really got to turn that topic inside out, from a technical, cultural and behavioural perspective.
“These are just some of the focused issues that we’re highlighting, in the hope that we can bring everyone’s skills and strengths to the table.”
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
On top of identifying and attempting to improve specific transport issues, the NTRO will also celebrate the latest industry achievements and innovations through its National Transport Research Awards and Gala night.
Shackleton says the awards will honour the work of both individuals and organisations alike that are making an impact.
“One of the awards – the “Research
Just some of the focus areas of next year’s conference include road safety, sustainability and innovative technologies.
In conjunction with the International Technical Conference, the NTRO will also be hosting its National Transport Research Awards and Gala night, celebrating achievements and innovation across the sector.
Rising Star” – is specifically aimed at encouraging and recognising the efforts of up-and-coming researchers in the field,” he says. “This helps to nurture and support the development of the next generation of transport experts and innovators.”
Another is the lifetime contribution award, which allows the conference to acknowledge those who have dedicated their careers to advancing the industry. This serves to inspire others and demonstrate the value of long-term commitment and expertise throughout Australia’s transport sector.
Other awards will highlight achievements in the area of decarbonisation and sustainable infrastructure, projects and efforts that are specifically focused on improving connectivity and access for communities and more.
Shackleton says – as the host organisation – the NTRO is leveraging the conference and the gala night to solidify the organisation’s role as a gateway to global transport expertise.
“By bringing together the brightest minds and latest advancements, the conference reinforces our position as a trusted and influential player in the industry,” he says.
“Our purpose is to do things like this for the whole sector, not just ourselves. We’ve got to uplift the whole sector, because none of us can achieve real change in isolation.”
The 2025 NTRO International Technical Conference will be held from May 7-9 in Port Melbourne, and the Gala Dinner and Awards night on May 8.
For more information, visit https://www.ntroconference.com.au/
We raise, re-level & re-support sunken concrete, roads and buildings.
TOO FAR A BRIDGE, NOT
REINFORCED EARTH’S TECHSPAN PRECAST CONCRETE COMPONENT IS PROVIDING A SIMPLE YET STURDY ALTERNATIVE TO CONVENTIONAL BRIDGE AND TUNNEL SPAN STRUCTURES. RICCARDO MUSELLA, MANAGING DIRECTOR – REINFORCED EARTH EXPLAINS WHAT MAKES TECHSPAN SO UNIQUE.
Not many can claim that they’ve achieved a feat never previously accomplished in the entire southern hemisphere.
Fewer yet can say that they’ve worked on most major infrastructure pipelines in Australia’s major states.
As Riccardo Musella, Managing Director – Reinforced Earth can attest, neither of these achievements are the result of luck. Instead, they’re the by-product of pioneering infrastructure products across precast, geosynthetics, reinforced earth structures and more.
Reinforced Earth’s ability to design and deliver renowned solutions, including precast elements, has enabled the company to participate in some of the largest infrastructure works in Australia’s history.
TechSpan is one of the company’s flagship products in this space. A buried precast concrete arch, TechSpan is commonly used for transport infrastructure solutions such as bridges, tunnels, underpasses and crossings.
Musella says TechSpan represents a transformational product suitable for road, rail, mining and other niche transport applications.
“It’s a custom design that’s very flexible under heavy loads. Most other solutions in the market can’t offer that same level of flexibility. Across the globe, TechSpan has been used for mining applications, in roads and rail and even in defence infrastructure and projects,” he says.
“We have a design that can cater for a number of different sectors, while also being able to be scaled down or up with
ease, depending on the type of project.”
Showcasing this scalability, Reinforced Earth this year designed and delivered the largest precast concrete arch in the southern hemisphere in Western Australia, while also supporting the delivery of tunnels on Sydney’s WestConnex Rozelle Interchange.
The enhanced structural integrity of each TechSpan arch enables each structure to cater for challenging conditions and heavy traffic, during and after installation.
All of this can be achieved with minimal waste on site, with each component prepared off-site and delivered with fewer disruptions and materials, making TechSpan an ideal product even in restricted environments, such as built-up and city areas. This also helps to optimise the time and cost required for erection and installation.
“From an installation point of view, it’s an ideal solution. We’ve been tasked with delivering major projects that feature a number of our precast products, all of which are manufactured and prepared off site and delivered ready to go,” Musella says.
“There isn’t any time wasted or unnecessary mess on site, because all of the work is already done.”
These, and other designs, are compliant with AS5100 standards, with each TechSpan arch having an expected service life of up to 100 years.
While there are base templates that are used initially to design each TechSpan
Each TechSpan element is manufactured and prepared off site, making it quicker and cleaner to install when delivered on site.
Images: Reinforced Earth.
arch, Musella reiterates that every design is different.
“There are certain shapes and sizes that are used repetitively as we might be building a road tunnel that’s similar to another project that we’ve done in the past,” he says. “That being said, our design is customised every time to allow for different loading requirements and differing ground conditions.
“Regardless of each specific design, it’s efficient and easy to install overall, as it’s just made of separate segments of concrete that match with each other.”
Customers have even more choice, thanks to the company’s free design tool (www.precastarches.com), helping to open the door for project managers and contractors alike to explore how TechSpan can benefit their projects.
THE HALF TONNE
Innovative products such as TechSpan have contributed heavily to Reinforced Earth’s long-time success in the Australian market. But so has its people.
In 2024, the company is celebrating its 50th anniversary in Australia, a milestone that Musella says reflects the hard work and customer-first attitude of the Reinforced Earth team, as well as the wider Terre Armée global group (Reinforced Earth’s parent company).
“The thing that’s made me and the team proud is how we’ve been able to cater for projects of all size,” he says.
“We are very well known in the civil engineering industry because we’ve been involved in some of the most iconic projects across Australia.”
Musella adds that continued innovation in its technical solutions
space, as well as the company’s core pillars to Retain, Cross, Protect and Strengthen have also been major factors in the company’s sustained success.
“Our technology is really at the core of the business,” he says. “It’s what we’re famous for, it is one of those technologies that have revolutionised the civil engineering industry.
“I think any civil engineer would be able to recognise some of the innovations, products and techniques that we’ve developed throughout the years.”
And this is just the beginning, with Musella saying that Reinforced Earth has a strong pipeline of projects and new solutions on the way.
“It’s been the work of our people that has guaranteed the success of our technology after 50 years. From a developmental perspective, we make sure that our products are efficient, easy to install and cost effective,” he says.
“You can tell, because people still want to use our products and see them as the best options out there. We’re not going to stop, there’s plenty still to come.”
“I THINK ANY CIVIL ENGINEER WOULD BE ABLE TO RECOGNISE SOME OF THE INNOVATIONS, PRODUCTS AND TECHNIQUES THAT WE’VE DEVELOPED THROUGHOUT THE YEARS.”
TechSpan arches can efficiently and quickly be transported, erected and fully installed.
Reinforced Earth’s TechSpan is the largest offering available in the company’s vast precast range.
SRE’s new fixed wing sprayer is available for delivery for the 2025/26 spray season. Fully compliant with all Australian regulations the sprayer meets all Austroads performance requirements for bitumen sprayers and is ready to go from November 2025.
POWERFUL, BUT MEASURED
ASTEC INDUSTRIES’ NEW RP-175 AND RP-195 F-MODEL PAVERS ARE SET TO HIT AUSTRALIAN SHORES SHORTLY, FOLLOWING A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL INTRODUCTION OVERSEAS. BUT WHAT MAKES THESE MODELS DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER ASTEC ROADTEC PAVERS?
Astec’s relentless pursuit of quality and innovative technology has once again led to a brand-new paving series, driven by a passion to help its customers succeed.
The company has delved deep into its research and development, as well as industry experience, to introduce the next generation of asphalt paving to Australia’s roads and infrastructure sectors. This time, in the form of the company’s brand-new F-series, specifically the tracked RP-175 and RP-195 paver models.
Garry van den Beld, National Account Manager, Mobile Asphalt, says the F-series pavers combine the best Astec technology with “best in class design.”
“The overall design of the new F series pavers has been transformed and updated to enhance the operator experience and the quality of the finished paving project,” he says.
“Both the RP-175 and RP-195 represent a complete redesign of our older Astec pavers, with a huge number of improvements that have been requested
Images: Astec.
The brand-new RP-175 and RP-195 F-model pavers will provide efficiency and accuracy gains never before seen in the Astec paver range.
The best in technology and design combine to deliver a high-class paving package from Astec.
by our customers. We’ve got something that’s new, innovative, and modern, that’s been driven by listening to the end user.”
Featuring updated designs and controls, the Astec F-series tracked pavers provide an improved overall operator experience with a variety of unit sizes (eight and ten feet), thus providing total capabilities aimed at ensuring that users can have the right machine for the job at hand.
With a standard paving width of 8-16 feet and 10-19 feet respectively, the RP-175 and RP-195 feature some of the latest paving technology, in a more sustainable, compact, and visually appealing package.
Jorge Boil, Business Line Manager, Infrastructure – Astec, says that between the two models, customers can find the best solution for all paving requirements.
“The RP-175 is more of your everyday, universal paver that’s perfect for subdivision works, council works and those types of projects, whilst the RP-195 is a bigger unit suitable for large infrastructure projects,” he says.
“We’ve already had a number of customers extremely interested in both of these models.”
EFFICIENT DESIGN
A big focus of the new F-series was the relocating and updating of machinery
components to maximise performance and visibility for the end user.
“The size of the engine compartment has been increased, the electric generator doesn’t need to be run by the hydraulics now, which means there’s more capacity in the hydraulic system for other functions, which also enhances the experience for the operator,” Boil says.
Making the switch from a hydraulic-driven generator system to a direct drive version has resulted in a more compact design, opening the door for Astec to play around with the internal features of its refined paver design.
Just one example is the relocation of the cooling system, from the side of the engine compartment to the top of the machine, enabling an upgrade from a single fan cooling system to a dual fan cooling system.
Not only does this change improve airflow within the operating system of the paver, it also helps to divert airflow away from the operator and ground crews. It also helps to reduce the overall noise of the machine by 20 per cent.
The relocation of the F-series electric screed heating generator, from the screed to the engine compartment, has again reduced the noise levels significantly for the screed hands.
current worldwide construction machinery requirements, Astec has introduced Stage V B4.5 (RP-175) and B6.7 (RP-195) Cummins engines to its F-series pavers. Customers also have the option to select a Stage III to match their current construction machinery requirements.
THE SMARTEDGE
A new feature that’s been designed for the incoming F-series generation is what Astec has coined as ‘SmartEdge Joint Detection.’ This unique feature uses laser technology to generate an accurate three-dimensional model of any lane edge type, as well as curved edges and supers.
Through its control head unit, the F-series paver will then use this data to automatically create a flight path for the screed extension to follow.
Astec estimates that with SmartEdge Joint Detection, operators can achieve a level of accuracy that’s 600 times more than other solutions in the market.
SmartEdge Joint Detection helps to overcome the potential of human error, while also removing ground staff from potentially dangerous or low-visible areas, relative to the operator.
“It allows for precision, which ensures high density joints and correct overlap, both of which are essential for quality
“IT ALLOWS FOR PRECISION, WHICH ENSURES HIGH DENSITY JOINTS AND CORRECT OVERLAP, BOTH OF WHICH ARE ESSENTIAL FOR QUALITY ROAD PAVING.”
Another component of the F-series that has undergone major change is the track system, as Boil explains.
“The track frame runs a lot straighter, therefore giving you improved performance and reliability, extending the component service intervals as well, as the tracks aren’t fighting each other,” he says. “The alignment now is very precise.”
The redesigned bogie frames, as well as a redesigned alignment arm has created commonality between both the eight and ten-feet models, with the re-configured new concept track frame switching from a 27-piece weldment assembly to a modular, two castings set up.
“With these changes you end up with a very slick-looking design,” van den Beld says. “Astec is moving away from our traditional paving machine aesthetic.”
To keep up with, and even exceed,
road paving,” Boil says.
“It won’t just help operators; it’ll also help companies immensely with their paving works. As far as I’m aware, we’re the only ones in the market to have a system like this, that’s a fully patented design.”
The SmartEdge Joint Detection option is available across all F-series and is very versatile in being fully interchangeable for fitment to either the left, or right-hand side of the screed for maximum visibility and safety.
Boil believes the automated feature, along with the impressive redesign presented by these new F-series pavers, will outlast and outperform current market solutions.
“We’re not only keeping up with what’s out there at the moment,” he says, “but we’re moving one step ahead with these new and innovated options, which offer improvements across the board.”
Experts in soil structure interaction.
Celebrating 50 years in Australia, Reinforced Earth provides solutions for soil structure interaction to retain, cross, protect and strengthen.
Protect
Our protection systems mitigate the damage caused by natural disasters.
Strengthen
We design and supply materials for geosynthetic soil reinforcement for various applications, such as basal reinforcement and steepen slopes.
Cross
We deliver structures designed to cross obstacles, including bridge abutments, underpasses, tunnel extensions, cut & covers, culverts, arch bridges and wildlife crossings.
Retain
We tailor earth retaining solutions, from our own Mechanically Stablised Earth walls, to a wide range of other retaining structures.
REWARDING ROLLERS
XCMG ROLLERS HAVE SUCCESSFULLY PAVED THEIR WAY ON PROJECTS ACROSS AUSTRALIA FOR NEARLY 20 YEARS, YET THE DRIVE TO GROW REMAINS A CONSCIOUS THOUGHT FOR THE CHINESE MANUFACTURER.
As one of the world’s three largest manufacturers of construction and heavy equipment, XCMG’s sales network spans 184 countries, including Australia.
For almost two decades, the Chinese manufacturer has been operating in Australia, providing its services on small- and large-scale projects nationwide.
Whether a project requires paving roads or compacting soil, XCMG rollers deliver on results, providing a unique blend of precision and power.
Customers have the choice between Single Drum and Dual Drum Rollers, both of which provide excellence in compaction technology.
Most construction sites need stable ground to do their work on, XCMG’s Single Drum roller range caters to projects requiring properly compacted and smoothed surfaces.
Asphalt compaction and construction projects can be catered to with the XS83 Single Drum Roller – the smallest in the range, through to the XS123, XS165, and the XS205 – the largest in the range.
Roy Rossini, General Manager, XCMG Mining Equipment Australia, says what makes the manufacturer unique is not the machines themselves, but more the support system following a purchase.
“XCMG is special due to the support available for the product range,” says Rossini.
“We have a warehouse for spare parts, and we have technical knowledge on the ground to give to customers.
“You can have the best product in the world but at the end of the day, it’s all about the support network that’s available, which we have.”
The XS83 is the roller suited for smaller asphalt compaction and construction projects, with an operating weight of 8000 kilograms.
Whether operators are looking for a smooth drum roller, dirt packer, or a rideon vibratory roller, the XS83 is a reliable
“WE WANT TO DIFFERENTIATE OUR MACHINES COMPARED TO OTHERS IN THE MARKET BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY, MOST OF THEM DO THE SAME JOB.”
and compact roller which offers toptier performance.
Rossini says the XS83, available around the world but tailored specifically for Australia, is equipped with everything required to operate a site anywhere in the country.
“We make the range project specific for each market around the world per sector,” he says.
“Australia, Europe, UK, New Zealand and United States are all a part of one sector which require certain things.
“Most of the adaptations required for this sector are done before the machines leave the factory in China.”
These adaptations include emergency stops in certain positions, adding reflective tape and installing a local
fire extinguisher that complies with Australian requirements.
Rossini says these differ to other sectors in Asia and Africa which do not require these adaptions.
“XCMG takes a proactive approach to adapting roller models to the Australian market,” he says.
“Making these necessary changes at a factory level ensures compliance and suitability for local conditions and regulations.”
As a popular model, the XS123 has an operating weight of 12,000 kilograms, and is the most common machine purchased from XCMG, says Rossini.
Despite success and well returned feedback on the XS123, Rossini says XCMG is continuously developing and improving
Images: XCMG.
XCMG rollers are backed by a robust support and dealer network for after-sales assistance.
roller models to continue to stand out in the market.
“We want to differentiate our machines compared to others in the market because at the end of the day, most of them do the same job,” he says.
Cosmetically, altering the machines is the focus for XCMG, as mechanically the machines are well on track, performance-wise.
“In addition to machine performance, maintaining operator comfortability is consistently what XCMG is striving for,” he says.
“We want to make sure the operators, owners and dealers are all comfortable in our machines, to ensure we can supply them with our machines across the board.”
The XS165 is a dependable roller which packs top-tier performance into its compact design.
Although still on the smaller side, the XS165 has an operating weight of 16,000 kilograms, doubling its smaller counterpart the XS83.
Rossini says XCMG prides itself on responding quickly to customer feedback and amending changes to products based on that feedback.
“A customer can suggest an aspect of a roller should be changed for whatever reason,” he says.
“The feedback can be given over the phone or in writing, regardless of the method it will be relayed directly to the factory with an immediate result.”
Rossini says a working customer relationship is a top priority for XCMG, and something not often seen in the market.
“For a customer to have the ability to directly communicate to a factory to make changes, that doesn’t happen regularly in the industry, yet that’s what we provide to everyone. Which is why we think we stand out in that area.”
The XS205 is the largest roller in the single drum roller range, with an operating weight of 20,000 kilograms.
Completing the fleet is the XS205 roller, ideal for large-scale projects. When
to train the dealers to the best of their ability.
“They are trained well on all products, ultimately helping us with troubleshooting and updates which we have on the go all the time.”
XCMG FINANCE
XCMG understands that financial constraints can limit growth, which is why Rossini says customers have the option to choose from tailored financing plans.
These options include equipment leasing, hire purchase, equipment loans and customised financing solutions.
“THEY PROVIDE CUSTOMERS WITH A RANGE OF ADVANTAGES AS WELL AS FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY AND ACCESS TO THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY.”
combined with its smaller counterparts, the XCMG roller range will be a one stop shop for construction projects.
Rossini says that after thriving in the Australian market for almost 20 years, XCMG has hopes to continue its journey working with operators on Australia’s largest infrastructure projects.
“Our progress in expanding and our dealer network is growing daily, as is our support for the dealer network and product range,” he says.
“We are bringing in more technical experts from China, who are well trained in all machinery including rollers,
“These options provide businesses with the flexibility to acquire the equipment they need without the full upfront cost,” says Rossini.
“They provide customers with a range of advantages as well as financial flexibility and access to the latest technology.”
Looking ahead, Rossini says XCMG is excited for new design developments in the pipeline for next year.
“We are excited to come out with additional ranges and models which will show XCMG is as strong as ever entering 2025.”
XCMG rollers exemplify the perfect balance between precision and power.
and
A SPECIAL CONNECTION
TIDD ROSS TODD (TRT) AND MCDONALD CONTRACTING SHARE MORE THAN JUST A PROFESSIONAL RELATIONSHIP, WITH BOTH COMPANIES REPRESENTING A FRIENDSHIP THAT’S GROWN OVER 23 YEARS. SECOND GENERATION OWNER SHANE MCDONALD SHINES A LIGHT ON WHAT MAKES THE PARTNERSHIP SO SPECIAL.
For specialised movers and freight providers McDonald Contracting, family has always played an important part in the company’s success.
As an inter-generational enterprise, McDonald Contracting is guided by its focus on establishing trust, knowing just how important word of mouth is for sustained success.
As now Owner Shane McDonald can attest, these principles laid out by his father have endured to this day, with the company now flourishing.
“The business officially started in 1969 through my father and uncles, my brother Mat and I then took the business on. It’s changed hands, but it’s always been the same last name, the same connection and the same ethic,” he says.
The company’s core business is moving and relocating reclaimed and recycled buildings, particularly government buildings and structures with difficult access. The McDonald Contracting team also service and move other unusual items, such as planes, trains, and large trees.
McDonald Contracting has relied heavily on custom-built trailers, as well as jacks and other ancillary equipment provided by TRT, to handle the diverse range of projects and items.
The partnership between TRT and McDonald Contracting began 23 years ago. When second generation owner Shane McDonald was still young, he and his father Robert ventured to New Zealand to visit TRT’s headquarters.
As he recalls, the trip was very formative, as he was granted exposure to the design
McDonald Contracting requires the latest in trailer technology to support its unique lifts
freight services.
and build process for each of TRT’s house trailers.
Shortly after that visit, McDonald Contracting purchased its first TRT trailer, a significant investment for what was, at the time, a small family business.
“It was a massive step for us in those days,” McDonald says. “That was a heck of a lot of money back then and that’s where things really kicked off between the two businesses.”
Shane’s father had a strong rapport with Bruce Carden, father of Jeremy Carden – Trailer Sales at TRT, with both families sharing a strong connection over the years. And it’s a relationship that’s only grown stronger.
Fast forward to 2024, McDonald Contracting will shortly have 16 trailer units in total, all unique in their design and service potential.
TRT has been highly accommodating in modifying and customising trailers to meet the specific needs of McDonald Contracting. McDonald says that from his perspective, this flexibility and willingness
to adapt has been crucial in supporting his business to deliver relocations of some of the largest portable commercial residences and other unique items.
“They have a spec or a style that we select, then sometimes it’s a complete rework to adapt their products to what we need,” he says. “Their ability to adapt for us has been remarkable.
“They have a fantastic way of taking a concept that I have, drawing it and turning it into a mechanical device that actually works. The end products are trailers for us that no one else can provide.”
This is particularly important for a company like McDonald Contracting, where no two days are the same. From complete home relocations, to moving large museum antiquities, the company carries out freight services for nearly any major object.
McDonald Contracting currently has a variety of TRT equipment, including a TRT 5 Axle All Steer Hydraulic Trailer, TRT Extendable Low Boy Trailer, TRT Extendable Tri Axle Drop Deck, TRT Hydraulic Jack Plant Systems with 45 jacks, TRT Converter Dolly
and a TRT Tag Axle Dolly.
The reliability of TRT’s trailers and its quick service in addressing any issues or breakdowns has also been highly valued by McDonald Contracting, with TRT able to carry out emergency repairs within 12 hours, even flying in crews from New Zealand.
McDonald says the personal connection and trust that has developed between the two family businesses over the years “has been phenomenal”, with the ability to directly reach out at any time helping to forge a strong working relationship.
“The ability to ring them, often at odd hours, with an issue or a question and have them submit help or information quickly has always been there,” he says.
“Ever since we met Bruce Carden 23 years ago, there hasn’t been an issue that couldn’t be resolved. It’s a bit of a running joke between both businesses, but I’ve got plenty of ideas and there’s never a ‘no’, it’s always a ‘yes’ or a ‘let’s give it a go’. Together, we always say that we’ll find a way to make it work, that we’ll get the job done.”
He adds that as both companies have grown over the years, they’ve maintained the same family-oriented approach, further strengthening the partnership by allowing both businesses to grow together.
For McDonald Contracting, this development can be easily measured when considering the growth of its fleet, as well as the variety of its completed projects.
“Every year we’ve grown,” McDonald says. “With our machinery, our staff, we continue to evolve and TRT has played a massive role in that. And we’ve got more TRT kit on the way, including what I believe is one of the largest house trailers to be delivered in Australia.”
Images: McDonald Contracting.
McDonald Contracting and TRT share an extremely close relationship, benefitting both businesses.
McDonald Contracting has more TRT trailers on the way.
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A NEW BEGINNING
WELL KNOWN TRANSPORT SOLUTION PROVIDER MAXITRANS IS PARTING WAYS WITH ITS OLD IDENTITY, TRANSFORMING INTO FREIGHTER GROUP, FOR A NEW ERA OF TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS.
Aleading supplier of locally manufactured trailing transport solutions, MaxiTRANS is transitioning through a comprehensive rebrand of its business.
As part of the rebrand, MaxiTRANS will be changing its name to Freighter Group, launching a new visual identity, designed to reflect the company’s expansive history, transformation journey and future vision.
Greg L’Estrange, Freighter Group Executive Chairman, says this is a new and exciting era for the business.
“The Freighter Group name not only connects our rich heritage, but importantly it connects with our Vision of ‘Freight it for Life’, which is our total commitment to supporting our customers for the life of our product,” he says. “We are excited to take the business forward under the Freighter name and continue to deliver high quality product solutions through our wide range of industry-leading brands.”
Synonymous with road transport in Australia through the manufacture and
distribution of market-leading brands Freighter, Maxi-CUBE, Lusty EMS, Hamelex White, Trout River and AZMEB, Freighter Group is one of the leading suppliers of road transport equipment for the freight sector.
Trout River, is one of Freighter Group’s product brands that deliver specialised Live Bottom technology solutions for bulk transport applications, providing a safer, versatile alternative to conventional tipping.
L’Estrange says the Trout River product is one example of the Freighter Group’s aspiration to further invest in its manufacturing capability, transitioning its Ballarat facility into an advanced manufacturing environment through a recent $50 million upgrade to support its brands and the evolving needs of its customers.
With access to Freighter Group’s national dealer and service support network, L’Estrange says the rebrand will offer customers peace of mind that it is committed to supporting their
transport needs. This peace of mind is further supported with the additional change that Freighter Group now offers spare parts for all its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) products manufactured under the Freighter Group name.
“At Freighter Group we want to display an end-to-end capability. Our vision is that we provide a trailer for life,” L’Estrange says.
“This means we don’t want to just sell a new trailer to a customer. We want to service that trailer and provide parts for that trailer. Which then allows us to sell the next trailer to the customer.”
L’Estrange says customers are now able to contact their local Freighter Group dealer to look after their spare part needs.
“That is why we are thrilled to announce that we are also introducing a new spare parts brand into the market, Hitcher Parts,” he says.
He adds that Hitcher Parts will consist of an expansive range of trailer parts that are designed to last. The Hitcher Parts range continues to expand and
Images: Freighter Group.
The exciting development will see MaxiTRANS transform its brand and services into the Freighter Group, with its main site situated in Ballarat, Victoria.
will soon be available, as well as in the after market.
“We pride ourselves on delivering a quality product for our customers and have continued to align our product offering with reputable component brands,” L’Estrange says. “All these changes lead into our message that Freighter Group is all about being ready.
“Ready for anything our customers need, through extensive product knowledge and industry experience. Ready for our customers to perform through products that are meticulously designed, manufactured and supported. Ready to assist when needed, with a national dealer, service and mobile support network, our team will never be too far away.”
With this, Freighter Group has also developed its Ready Range of trailers. A pre-engineered product offering, designed to take out the guess work and streamline the ordering process, delivering a competitivelypriced solution with shorter manufacturing lead times.
L’Estrange says through its industry experience designing and manufacturing trailers, the Ready Range allows Freighter Group to cater for the majority of customer needs with pre-engineered designs and a range of selectable options.
“That makes our responsiveness and speed of deployment much more efficient,” he says.
“Past years have shown lead times to be uncomfortably long, and that’s not good for us or our customers.
“These upgrades show our flexibility, as well as our understanding of the importance of keeping lead times low. Ideally, we would like
The rebrand renews the company’s commitment to its customers, through a greater support and parts network.
“THE COMPLETION OF THE UPGRADE PUTS THE BUSINESS IN A POSITION TO BE ABLE TO CONTINUE TO EVOLVE WITH THE CHANGING NEEDS OF OUR CUSTOMERS LONG INTO THE FUTURE.”
to maintain lead times within the range of two to four months.”
WHY THE CHANGE?
L’Estrange says the focus of the business has always remained on setting the company up for long-term success, which has been the commitment since a group of local private investors purchased the MaxiTRANS trailer business in September 2021.
“We set about embarking on a significant transformation journey when we purchased the trailer business, with the aim of creating a new era for the future of the company and the trailer manufacturing industry in Australia,” says L’Estrange.
“The journey started with a $50 million investment into our Ballarat site. This investment has seen the introduction of a range of state-of-the-art equipment and an expansion of the overall footprint of the facility, transforming it into a modern manufacturing environment.
“The completion of the upgrade puts the business in a position to be able to continue to evolve with the changing needs of our customers long into the future.”
L’Estrange says the investment into the Ballarat site will aid in adapting to customer needs at a more rapid pace.
“It gives customers access to the state-ofthe-art equipment we now have at Ballarat,” he says. “Our customers will benefit by not having to wait for the usual six to nine
month wait times which are unacceptably long for anyone.”
L’Estrange ensures customers that they will continue to see Freighter Group’s commitment to the future of the industry, despite a change in appearances.
“We don’t believe anyone else is putting this level of investment into their business in the Australian trailer market, which is a point of difference and allows us to continue delivering the sustainable quality with which we put into our products,” he says.
THE FUTURE
Excited for what other ventures are to come, L’Estrange says being associated with the Freighter name is an important step forward.
“Being associated with Freighter Group – the most recognised brand in the trailer industry – enables us to be more targeted in our promotional activities going forward,” he says.
“Freighter Group is ready for the future of the Australian trailer market, and we look forward with great excitement as we continue to expand and evolve as a business to further support the changing needs of our customers long into the future.
“We are excited to improve our geographic coverage and our processes, we have a long way to go but we’re targeting all of these things to be the best at what we do.”
For more information, make sure to visit www.freighter.com.au
Specialised Roading Equipment’s fixed wing sprayer model is perfect for outback road construction and sealing operations.
WORLDS BEST OF BOTH
SPECIALISED ROADING EQUIPMENT (SRE) IS NOW ABLE TO DELIVER A HOLISTIC SPRAYING UNIT PACKAGE, THANKS TO THE WEALTH AND STRENGTH OF BOTH ITS TELESCOPIC AND RECENTLY LAUNCHED FIXED WING CONFIGURATIONS. AS SRE’S LEADERS EXPLAIN, NO MATTER THE REQUIREMENT, THERE’S A SUITABLE UNIT READY TO GO.
In a relatively short time, New Zealandbased, bespoke road construction machinery and equipment provider Specialised Roading Equipment (SRE) has left its mark on the Australian market.
Targeting diverse customer segments across Australia, predominantly by listening to industry demands, has quickly secured the company’s position in the road construction machinery hierarchy.
SRE Managing Director Mark Wansbrough says that despite the growing success of the company’s patented telescopic spraying models there’s growing calls for an additional fixed wing option.
“Through our discussions with existing and potential customers we saw that more and more companies were asking for us to introduce a fixed wing option to supplement our existing telescopic offering.
“Among those connections, you could sense a level of frustration around the existing lack of options in the market, the
extended lead times and the lack of after sales support.”
It just so happens that these are three areas in which SRE excels, as Wansbrough explains.
“Many of our Australian customers were already impressed with our current offering at the time, so they reached out and asked, ‘could you build us a fixed wing sprayer?’ For those companies, as well as the ones who may not be ready to move to a telescopic offering, we effectively made the decision to extend our range to fulfill these desires,” he says.
FIXED SUCCESS
The telescopic option could be regarded as the foundational piece that allowed SRE to become the company it is today and is the most popular option across the company’s home nation of New Zealand.
This environment pushed the SRE team to develop a design that would help them to differentiate their offering – and eventually – stand above the rest. So much so, that when the company first introduced its products to Australian shores, word of mouth quickly contributed to initial sales.
Chris Kaelin, SRE Technical Manager says the decision to develop and launch the fixed wing design into Australia was
ultimately a simple process.
“Fixed wings are by no means new to us, we’ve been designing and manufacturing them for years,” Kaelin says. “It’s been easy to take that design and adapt it to meet the demands of the Australian market, as there’s clearly a market for a simpler spraying solution in Australia.”
SRE now considers Australia its home away from home.
Kaelin says Australia is a unique market, with differing regions and applications requiring very different machinery.
Therefore, SRE’s goal with the fixed wing design has been to minimise complexity
while maximising reliability, making its units easier to maintain and operate.
“Obviously Australia is a massive place, and we see that there’s demand for a simplified sprayer design, without the requirement for the flexibility of the telescopic model,” he says. “There are conditions, particularly outside of the metro areas, that lend themselves better and are more suitable to a fixed wing design.
“The aim is to provide a fixed wing option that is reliable, easy to operate, and can be serviced by local mechanics, even in very remote areas of Australia,” Kaelin says.
This regional difference also revolves around customer preference. Kaelin says customers in the eastern states tend to prefer the flexibility and efficiency of the telescopic sprayers, while those in more remote, rural areas see a greater need for the simpler, fixed-wing option.
One of the company’s biggest strengths is its commitment to engaging with industry to further refine its designs, with Kaelin spending as much time with Australian customers, as he does their New Zealand counterparts.
“I’m in Australia every month, visiting customers, getting feedback on their existing machines and what they’d like to see on our new units,” he says. “We’re very much a ‘boots on the ground’ type business, which also gives us a broader view of our own horizons, as well as future trends in the market.
“We’re not just sitting in our office all day, every day.”
Regular customer engagement has led to the SRE team incorporating customer feedback into the development of new features and technologies.
For example, it is replicating control
system functions such as the option of the job management system and sprayer automation across both the telescopic and fixed-wing sprayers, providing a consistent operator experience.
“The idea is that the operator can flip between sprayers, depending on the project and they can look down and see a very similar interface,” Kaelin says.
The control of all sprayer functions can be replicated over both sprayer types, while allowing for individual jet control through either toggle switches or “fast taper” mode for the fixed wing variant.
“Even for our base specification fixed wing control system there is familiarity on the layout and operation of the sprayer,” Kaelin says.
SRE’s expertise delivering both ensures that no matter the decision, customers are receiving some of the most technically advanced bitumen sprayers on the market, in a timely fashion as well.
“We’ve always held the view that customers don’t want, and shouldn’t have, to wait more than 12 months for a sprayer,” Wansbrough says. “We’ve been consistently increasing our capacity to make sure that our lead times stay well below that time frame.
“We’re about to move to a new site that’s double the size of our existing facility, for that exact reason. It’s about having that attitude that we always need to work on our own systems, processes and resourcing to make sure that we can continue to put out quality products relatively quickly.
“Now we’ve got a product range that, whatever you’re doing or wherever you’re going, there’s an option available for you.”
Above: SRE’s base level control system offers a simple robust manual control system for fixed wing sprayers.
SRE’s Semi automated control panel allows for both manual and fast taper spray jet control, while automatically controlling functions such as pump speed, rate control and spray run data capture.
Images: SRE.
Enrol today - afpa.asn.au/registrations/
FROM AFRICA TO
AUSTRALIA
THE LINTEC CSD2500B CONTAINERISED ASPHALT MIXING PLANT IS DRIVING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ACROSS
FOUR CONTINENTS.
The Lintec CSD2500B Containerised Asphalt Mixing Plant is revolutionising the way roads are built and maintained. These unique, modular plants, built together and within 100 per cent ISOcertified sea containers, offer significant advantages in terms of cost-efficiency, energy savings, and mobility.
The Lintec CSD2500B is ideal for any job site and has worked on several prominent infrastructure projects worldwide. The CSD2500B offers tremendous benefits to owners who choose to use it as a permanent plant, as the components that are built-in, enclosed and protected within the container wall extend the lifespan of all the whole plant.
John Glossat, National Business Development Manager, Tutt Bryant says, through its distributor agreement, the company is thrilled to bring the Lintec CSD2500B Containerised Asphalt Mixing Plant to Australia.
“These modular, ISO-certified containerised plants are transforming how roads are built and maintained, offering unmatched advantages in cost efficiency, energy savings, and mobility,” he says. “Our partnership with Lintec & Linnhoff reflects our commitment to Australia’s infrastructure needs with advanced, sustainable, and resilient construction solutions.”
In Africa, the Lintec CSD2500B worked on a 14.2-kilometre critical highway project in Abidjan Côte d’Ivoire as the country prepared for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, creating numerous jobs for the local community, improving the economy and social development in Egypt. The Lintec CSD2500B supported the construction of a vital road link, connecting Aswan’s industrial areas with the main Cairo highway. The Lintec CSD2500B began production in February 2023 and mixed over 300,000 tonnes of asphalt for the project, with an average
output of 900 tonnes per production day. In South America, the Lintec CSD2500B was central in expanding a major road corridor between two of Bolivia’s largest cities –Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. Bolivia has no railways and relies heavily on road transport, so the highway expansion was vital to increasing business and community growth between the two cities.
This project, part of the worldwide Belt and Road initiative adopted by the Chinese Government, was deliberately started at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to get the job done with minimal disruption to businesses and communities. However, it presented a challenge for Lintec & Linnhoff as the company had to install and commission 100 per cent remotely. Despite this, the project team successfully overcame these challenges, as the plant’s design made it easier and faster to install compared to a conventional plant.
Images: Lintec & Linnhoff.
Lintec & Linnhoff has proven its ability to provide services and products right across the globe.
In Micronesia, the Lintec CSD2500B played a key role in the Yap Island airport rehabilitation project, producing 26,000 tonnes of hot mix asphalt for the 6400 feet-long runway. Located in the western Pacific Ocean almost 900 miles due east of the Philippines, the airport runway was due for improvement to support international connections to Guam and Palau.
In addition, in October 2024, the Lintec CSD2500B was selected to help increase essential road-building activities on three major projects in Jordan. The installation and commissioning process of the Lintec CSD2500B plant was completed in just one month, including delivery, testing, and full operational setup, allowing the plant to begin production swiftly.
The first project, which started in May 2024 in collaboration with the Greater Amman Municipality, involves the construction of 500,000 square metres of roads across the outskirts of Amman, with daytime shifts and a 40-day timeline.
The second project, also with Greater Amman Municipality, began in July 2024 and focuses on 800,000 square metres of main road development, with ongoing night shifts to expedite completion.
The third project, set to begin in April 2025 for Mafraq Municipality, will cover 250,000 square metres of main roads, with delivery expected 30 working days after commencement.
THE LINTEC PROPOSITION
The Lintec CSD2500B’s components built
within the containers are protected from the elements, ensuring a longer lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. This level of durability is critical in Australia, where extreme weather conditions can take a toll on infrastructure.
One of the standout features of the Lintec CSD2500B is its ease of transportation and installation.
Its modular design allows for the plant to be easily moved to various project sites, making it ideal for both small and large-scale infrastructure projects.
This portability, combined with the fact
Alan Ong, General Manager, Sales – Lintec & Linnhoff says Australia’s diverse and challenging terrain requires equipment that can withstand the natural elements while delivering high output.
“The Lintec CSD2500B stands out not just for its rugged construction, but also for the way it optimises resources. With its Double Screen Drum Technology, we’re saving energy on every batch, which is crucial as we aim to lower emissions and build sustainably for the future,” he says.
AUSTRALIA’S ROAD NETWORK
Australia’s road network, renowned for its vast scale and high standards, plays a critical role in the country’s economic and social fabric. Spanning everything from sleek urban highways to rugged outback trails, this expansive system requires constant maintenance and technological advancement to meet the demands of the population.
In recent years, the Australian Government has recognised this need and committed substantial funding towards infrastructure development, particularly focusing on roads. The 2023-24 budget allocated $40.8 billion to roads, contributing to the nation’s economic growth while driving sustainability and efficiency through technological innovation.
“ONE OF THE STANDOUT FEATURES OF THE LINTEC CSD2500B IS ITS EASE OF TRANSPORTATION AND INSTALLATION.”
that the plant can be erected and dismantled quickly, ensures that road construction projects can be completed on time, while also reducing labour costs and delays. In an industry where time is money, this feature is particularly valuable, as it reduces costs and enhances productivity.
The Lintec CSD2500B’s Double Screen Drum Technology also offers considerable energy savings. By combining the heating and screening processes into a single unit, Lintec’s system eliminates the heat loss typically associated with traditional asphalt plants. Additionally, the minimal to no requirement of heavy concrete foundations further cuts costs, making the Lintec CSD2500B a highly attractive option for infrastructure projects across Australia.
Australia’s road network is not just expanding in size, but also advancing in sustainability and efficiency. The Lintec CSD2500B’s energy-efficient design, which reduces wear and tear and minimises transportation costs, aligns with Australia’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly infrastructure solutions.
The integration of such sustainable technologies into road construction ensures that Australia’s road network will continue to thrive, even as the population grows and the demand for transportation infrastructure increases.
As Australia’s road network continues to expand, there is an increasing reliance on cutting-edge technology to streamline construction processes and enhance the longevity of road infrastructure.
Lintec & Linnhoff’s CSD2500B Containerised Asphalt Mixing Plants represent one such technological innovation that is transforming the road construction landscape.
The CSD2500B Containerised Asphalt Mixing Plant is as innovative as it is tough.
TO LEARN NEVER TOO LATE
AS GEORGE COLLINS, WESTERN SPRAYER OPERATOR – RPQ CAN ATTEST, THE RENOWNED RELIABILITY AND EFFICIENCY OF MATTHEWS BROTHERS ENGINEERING’S ROAD CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY IS MATCHED ONLY BY THE COMPANY’S EXTENSIVE TRAINING AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
George Collins is as experienced as they come. But even he isn’t naïve to the benefits of learning and improving over time.
As the Western Sprayer Operator for RPQ, a road construction and maintenance provider in Queensland and New South Wales with over 40 years’ experience, Collins has used a wide variety of machinery and mobile plant equipment.
Through his time operating machinery across the country, he says there’s one brand in particular that’s stood out.
“The first time I got the chance to operate a Matthews Brothers Engineering truck would’ve been in 2015,” he says. “The first real contact I had with them was around parts. If we needed actuators or nozzles, or anything like that, it was really easy to talk with the parts department.
“The team they had over there knew what you were talking about, even if you didn’t.”
It wasn’t until he came to Queensland at the start of this year that Collins was able to fully appreciate just how well MBE equipment performs in day-today operation.
“It’s a stark comparison when I look at my experience with MBE’s units and other machines in the market,” he says. “The way that the pump works is amazing, the user friendliness and the larger and easier to manage Ozibar overall make for a great truck.”
Despite decades of experience, Collins still believes there’s opportunities for him to continue learning and improving his skills, especially with regards to variable spraying technology.
It’s for this reason that Collins happily partook in MBE’s training program, helping operators to optimise their use of the manufacturer’s equipment.
UP TO SPEED
MBE’s training in Melbourne gives operators – young and old – the chance to apply their knowledge and experience with MBE
equipment in a hands-on setting. These sessions provided an opportunity for Collins to troubleshoot issues that he’d been facing with the MBE equipment and discuss them directly with the people who built the systems. He says multiple sessions over two days gave him a better understanding of the technical aspects of MBE’s equipment, as well as how to address problems effectively should they arise.
“It was a great chance to give some feedback around particular features and any areas that I’d had to troubleshoot in the past,” Collins says. “At the same time, I was able to take in that information in regard to how they build their systems, making it easier for me in future when I need any maintenance or general work on the units.”
Just one focus area, which Collins says was equally as insightful as it was instructional, was around MBE’s patented G-TAR (Guaranteed Target Application Rate) system.
MBE’s G-TAR provides two benefits. It aims to provide a guarantee to the application rate for the operator while also aiming to simplify the process for operators by removing the need for traditional road speed charts and a manual set up.
“YOU CAN SIT AT THE PIT WHILE YOU’RE HEATING YOUR PRODUCT, SO YOU CAN PUT YOUR ENGINE CONTROL ON, SET YOU’RE RPM AND YOU’RE READY TO GO AS SOON AS YOU DRIVE ON SITE.”
Having benefitted from the use of the system for years, Collins says it was “extremely valuable” to learn how he could maximise its use in future.
“The training really helped me to understand the proper gearing and settings required for getting the most out of the G-TAR system,” he says. “It was a big help to achieve more accurate spray rates, while improving efficiency overall.”
Another valuable learning experience was learning more about controlling and measuring the peak RPM (revolutions per minute) required for different types of works.
“The aim is always to have your rates and your ground speed consistent and the old school way was just using the drive off your foot. Having an engine control system and utilising MBE’s target road speed chart that’s in each of their new units makes it so much easier,” Collins says.
“When you view the target road speed, it shows you the ideal gear ratio and RPM, that way you don’t have to do a dry run. You can sit at the pit while you’re heating your product, so you can put your engine control on, set you’re RPM and you’re ready to go as soon as you drive on site.
“You can save between 15 minutes to 20 minutes just there alone, while getting the exact spray rate you need.”
Collins was just one of a number of RPQ operators who participated in the training course, with positive feedback overall from participants.
“We really enjoyed the tour of the factory and the opportunity to see how they put their systems and components together,” he says.
“Now we’re able to take that and use it in our maintenance and looking after each MBE unit in our fleet.”
While participating in the program only months ago, Collins still has appetite for even more training.
“I’d like to learn how to use their variable machines, which are amazing units,” he says. “They have dual actuators on the bar itself, so they’re essentially a double spray system. To be able to spray on the shoulder, the centre of the lane and then coming back to do the middle, you can achieve all of that in a single pass.”
He adds that he’s excited to implement the techniques and knowledge acquired through MBE’s training program to better support RPQ, as the company prepares for a heavy slate of works coming into 2025.
MBE’s training in Melbourne gives operators – young and old – the chance to apply their knowledge and experience with MBE equipment in a hands-on setting.
George Collins, Western Sprayer Operator – RPQ.
Images: MBE.
ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE ROAD MAINTENANCE
THE AUSTRALIAN FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT ASSOCIATION RELEASES ITS KEY INSIGHTS FROM THE 2024 ROAD MAINTENANCE AND REHABILITATION FORUM.
The 2024 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Forum, held on October 22-23 at Sydney’s Bicentennial Park, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including local and state government representatives, industry leaders, and technical experts. The forum aimed to tackle Australia’s pressing road maintenance challenges amid intensifying weather patterns, increased traffic, and financial constraints that strain infrastructure. It served as a vital platform for exchanging knowledge, exploring innovative solutions, and discussing sustainable practices essential for the future of Australia’s road networks.
Forums like this play a critical role in aligning public policy with industry capabilities, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and driving future-oriented strategies for infrastructure management. This year’s forum placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and resilience, equipping attendees with actionable insights to effectively confront the evolving challenges facing Australia’s road networks. As climate pressures intensify and infrastructure demands grow, events like these are essential for uniting efforts across public and private sectors.
URGENT CALL FOR PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
The opening keynote by Tony Aloisio of the Australian Flexible Pavement Association underscored the vulnerabilities of Australia’s road infrastructure, particularly along the eastern seaboard. Heavy vehicle loads, delayed maintenance, and climate-driven events such as flooding and extreme heat
jeopardise road safety and inflate costs. He advocated for a circular economy approach to recycling materials, emphasising the need to extend pavement life and reduce expenses.
A theme of preventative maintenance resonated throughout the event. Deferred repairs were likened to neglecting dental health – small issues can escalate into costly problems if not addressed timely. Timely investment in maintenance is crucial for ensuring safe, sustainable infrastructure. The discussions emphasised that the cost of neglect is not merely financial; it compromises safety and long-term viability.
Climate resilience emerged as a significant topic, with discussions centred on how extreme weather increases the demand for durable infrastructure. A pressing issue highlighted was the funding gap, especially in rural areas where local governments often lack resources for essential maintenance. Speakers stressed the need for federal and state support to facilitate proactive repairs, emphasising that investing in maintenance now can prevent significant future costs – a crucial consideration for budgetconstrained regions.
As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, enhancing the resilience of road infrastructure has become a top priority. Derek McCarthy from the NSW Reconstruction Authority presented the State Disaster Mitigation Plan (SDMP), a framework aimed at bolstering infrastructure resilience against disasters such as floods and bushfires. He emphasised the necessity of
resilience planning at regional and local levels, encouraging councils to formulate disaster adaptation plans that align with broader state and federal initiatives.
Key elements of the SDMP include early damage assessment and rapid documentation of road conditions following severe weather events, which are crucial for securing recovery funding. By streamlining response and repair processes, the SDMP aims to minimise infrastructure disruption and accelerate recovery. This session underscored the importance of a collaborative, multistakeholder approach to resilience planning, showcasing how co-ordinated efforts can mitigate the impact of climate-driven events on road infrastructure and community safety.
Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data technology are transforming road maintenance, making it more precise, efficient, and predictive. Justin Fischer of Shepherd Services introduced AI-based inspection tools that automate the process of defect detection, significantly reducing the need for labour-intensive manual inspections. These tools provide governments with real-time, accurate data on road conditions, enabling them to prioritise repairs based on actual conditions rather than estimates.
The Queensland AI Technical Working Group has conducted trials in automated road assessments that demonstrated substantial cost savings, improved safety for inspectors, and streamlined maintenance schedules. By capturing a detailed, up-to-date view of road conditions across networks, AI-based systems support a proactive
The forum aimed to provide a clear path forward for continued innovation throughout Australia’s road network.
Images: AfPA.
maintenance approach, allowing for early intervention before small issues escalate.
A highly engaging session led by Trevor Distin of Colas focused on practical strategies for maintaining sealed roads, which constitute a significant portion of Australia’s road network.
The session examined common road defects and their underlying causes, stressing that while surface wear may seem minor, it often signals deeper structural weaknesses that, if left unaddressed, can result in larger failures.
This presentation covered various defect types, their causes, and available treatment options. It emphasised the need for effective treatments for each type of defect, advocating for early intervention methods like crack sealing, pothole filling, and edge reinforcement to prevent more extensive damage.
By addressing these issues promptly, road managers can extend the lifespan of pavements, avoid costly reconstructions, and improve overall safety. This practical insight resonated strongly with attendees,
particularly those from local governments responsible for managing regional road networks and seeking efficient, cost-effective maintenance solutions.
The session highlighted the sustainability benefits of insitu stabilisation, noting its ability to recycle existing pavement materials, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This method minimises heavy vehicle movements on local roads, providing a fast and efficient construction process that allows for upgrading more roads within budget constraints. Overall, insitu stabilisation presents a modern, sustainable solution for addressing infrastructure needs.
Hamidreza Sahebzamani from SAMI introduced innovations in bitumen emulsions, which offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional asphalt by requiring lower application temperatures.
This reduction in energy usage and emissions makes bitumen emulsions a versatile, sustainable solution for various climates and road conditions. The Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation
Forum showcased the invaluable role of collaborative events in addressing complex, evolving infrastructure needs. By uniting government staff, industry experts, and technology innovators, the forum fostered a shared understanding of current challenges and encouraged the exploration of scalable, resilient solutions. Participants gained insights into emerging technologies, practical maintenance strategies, and policy implications, helping to bridge knowledge gaps and align resources for more cohesive road management approaches.
As climate pressures grow and infrastructure demands continue to rise, forums like these are essential for uniting efforts across public and private sectors, driving the adoption of forward-looking practices, and building a resilient road network that can withstand future challenges.
The event underscored how crosssector collaboration, shared expertise, and innovative technologies can lay the foundation for a sustainable infrastructure system that serves Australia’s communities for decades to come.
Converge is Australia’s premier event for Sub-Contractors, Project Engineers, Council Fleet Managers, and Large-Scale Construction Contractors across the municipal works, civil construction and infrastructure space.
Through a mixture of live demonstrations, equipment showcases, and conference spaces, Converge will bring industry experts together to share knowledge and deliver solutions for building and maintaining Australia’s future.
RACING AGAINST TIME
THE
NATIONAL PRECAST
CONCRETE ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA SHINES A LIGHT ON OZCAST’S LATEST WORKS ON SYDNEY’S NEW SPEEDWAY.
The Sydney International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsport venue located in Eastern Creek, Sydney. Built to replace the old speedway at Clyde, which was demolished to make way for the Sydney Metro West project, the new venue is far from being merely a replacement. It elevates motorsport in Australia by offering world-class facilities, setting new industry standards as it hosts both national and international events.
When the New South Wales Government announced an ambitious opening date for the new venue, it ignited a race against time. Completion of the project was a linchpin for the Metro Project’s beginning, with Abergeldie Contractors being awarded the monumental task of constructing the speedway under an ambitious timeline, with every tick of the clock bringing the deadline closer.
ADAPTING TO TIGHT TIMELINES
Faced with the pressure of tight schedules,
Despite shorter and demanding deadlines, all precast elements supplied for the project were of upmost quality.
Images: National Precast.
CONTRACTOR CAPABILITIES SHOWCASE 2025
ALL CONTRACTORS ARE INVITED TO LIST THEIR BUSINESS. SCAN THE QR CODE TO LIST YOUR BUSINESS FOR FREE
TSOLUTIONS SHARING MUNICIPALITY
IN MARCH 2025, MUNICIPAL WORKS AUSTRALIA’S 2025 MUNICIPAL WORKS AND ENGINEERING CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD AT THE PRINCE OF WALES SHOWGROUNDS, IN BENDIGO, VICTORIA.
he annual event, which is now in its 30th year, is considered Australia’s premier gathering of engineers, municipal works staff, and the companies that supply and support the municipal works industry.
Dedicated to exchanging innovative ideas and best practices in municipal works, next year’s “Sharing Solutions” conference will focus on collaborative approaches to address the pressing challenges cities and communities face globally. This sharing of solutions in municipal works is expected to be crucial for fostering innovation, improving efficiency, and addressing common daily challenges municipal works practitioners face.
Municipal Works Australia’s conference organising committee has assembled a distinguished panel of keynote speakers, each a leader in their respective fields. The conference program will feature 25 speakers over two days, including presentations by officers from municipalities that have successfully implemented innovative
solutions in areas such as road safety, asset management, civil infrastructure maintenance and community engagement.
Among them is Nicole Livingstone OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia), a renowned sports administrator and media commentator who represented Australia at three Olympics, winning a silver medal and two bronze medals. Her keynote presentation will draw from her rich life experiences and shed light on the benefits of a collaborative organisational culture.
Participants will also hear from Justin Herald, Managing Director – Major Motivation, who – at 25 – started Attitude Gear® with $50 to his name. Despite initial challenges, his brand gained popularity and grew into a multi-million-dollar company.
The trade show exhibition is not just a display of cutting-edge technologies and services, but an interactive platform to excite and involve attendees. Featuring demonstrations and exhibits from over 75 leading companies and startups in the municipal works sector, it offers a unique
opportunity to explore and learn.
In a new addition for 2025, machinery operators representing councils across Australia will test their skills in the RDO Equipment Top Gun Challenge. The team at Hiway will also provide a road rehabilitation demonstration, among other demonstrations.
To find out more, make sure to visit: https://municipalworks.com.au/mwa_ events/2025-national-municipal-works-andengineering-conference/
Above: Municipal Works Australia’s 2025 Municipal Works and Engineering Conference will showcase the latest equipment and presentations, aimed at boosting the municipal works sector.
Municipal Works Australia’s 2025 Municipal Works and Engineering Conference will be held on Mach 20-21, 2025.
CONVERGE: CONSTRUCTION’S ONE-STOP-SHOP
WANT TO SEE WHAT THE FUTURE HAS IN STORE FOR THE INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR? THEN WELCOME TO CONVERGE.
Converge is a brand-new expo that for the first time will bring together Municipal Works and Commercial and Civil Construction, to provide attendees with a glimpse at Australia’s infrastructure future.
Set to be held in September 2025, Converge will be the one-stopshop for Sub-Contractors, Project Engineers, Council Fleet Managers, and Large-Scale Construction Contractors focused across the municipal works, civil construction and infrastructure space.
Attendees and exhibitors will have the chance to come together to exchange concepts and solutions to empower not only the construction sector, but also the municipal works industry, to ensure that adequate infrastructure can meet demand for decades to come.
From the construction site to the boardroom, Converge will be the new home for important discussions and knowledge exchanges around the development of essential infrastructure projects, big and small.
Lauren Chartres, Converge Show Director says the event will cover everything that’s required to successfully deliver infrastructure works, including equipment right through to planning and management software.
“Unlike other events, Converge covers
the entire infrastructure sector and will showcase equipment and demonstrations right on the expo floor,” she says.
“It’s the perfect opportunity for businesses that have clients from Tier One and Two contractors, right through to smaller operators and council departments to connect with those companies in one place, at one time. We know that nothing like Converge currently exists within Australia.”
BUILDING AUSTRALIA’S FUTURE, TOGETHER
Sarah Bachmann, Chief Executive Officer – National Precast Concrete Association Australia, says the event will likely present an ideal opportunity for the precast sector to connect with other areas of the market.
“At Converge, civil and infrastructure precast manufacturers can benefit from interactive networking sessions, as well as attending and presenting at educational sessions on changes to sustainability requirements, the trend towards offsite construction, regulatory updates, design solutions, quality control and case studies,” Bachmann says.
“Precast concrete manufacturers in Australia face challenges, including adapting to evolving regulations, meeting sustainability demands, managing supply chain disruptions and addressing skilled labour shortages.”
A major segment of Converge will be dedicated to civil construction and road maintenance. In partnership with Roads & Infrastructure and Infrastructure magazines, this area will offer Tier One through to Tier Three contractors a view of the latest equipment and technology available on the market.
T his will include demonstrations of the latest software that is transforming commercial construction projects.
A dedicated conference area will also welcome leaders from major civil works projects to share knowledge on Victoria’s Big Build projects as well as the 10-year, $120 billion infrastructure pipeline for the state, offering unprecedented access to decision makers in this space.
“We want to ensure that we’re providing the opportunity for thought leadership and provoking conversations about the future of the Australian infrastructure sector,” Chartres says.
A niche area for councils and asset
Converge will provide a sneak peek into the future of the construction sector, showing off innovative materials, machines and methods.
“CONVERGE CLOSELY ALIGNS WITH OUR CORE PURPOSE, WHICH IS TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WORKING IN MUNICIPAL WORKS TO LEARN ABOUT THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN MUNICIPAL PRACTICES AND EXPAND THEIR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK.”
managers to see the latest tools available in municipal works will also feature. From horticulture equipment through to road maintenance, and larger-scale trade equipment, the area will act as a onestop-shop for council fleet managers and sub-contractors to see the latest tools on offer, with a special focus on zero emission technology.
Peter Ali, Chief Executive Officer –Municipal Works Australia, says Converge will give councils and local municipalities a chance to see what’s in store for the future.
“Our local government officials operate in a rapidly expanding field. Converge will give them access to products they may not know exist and offer solutions to the issues they face daily,” he says. “Converge closely aligns with our core purpose,
which is to provide opportunities for people working in municipal works to learn about the latest innovations in municipal practices and expand their professional network.
“The event’s scale looks impressive, and it will be great to see numerous people sharing a common interest in civil infrastructure all in one place.”
THE BEST EXPOSURE
Converge attendees and exhibitors can also benefit from extensive media coverage in the lead-up, during and after the event, with exposure to an accumulated audience of decision makers of more than one million people. Both Roads & Infrastructure and Infrastructure magazines will be joined by other renowned titles
including Earthmovers & Excavators, Earthmoving Equipment, Utility Magazine, Inside Construction, Council Magazine and Tradie Magazine.
For those who are interested in showcasing the very best that they have to offer, exhibition space is currently available. As Chartres explains.
“We have a range of options available, from floor space through to walk-on packages,” she says.
“Our team can also work on bespoke offerings to ensure that your needs are being met.”
Whether you’re an Engineer, Asset Manager, Project or Procurement Manager, or even a Sub-Contractor, Converge is the event for you.
Converge will take place on September 17-18, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
For more information on exhibiting and attending, visit convergeexpo. com.au, or contact our team directly on +61 3 9690 8766 or converge@ primecreative.com.au
levels and urban-friendly
LEADING THE CHARGE SANY EMIXER:
PUTZMEISTER OCEANIA IS HELPING TO TURN THE TIDE WHEN IT COMES TO THE ELECTRIFICATION OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, SHOWING HOW EFFECTIVE, AND SIMPLE, THE TRANSITION TO MORE SUSTAINABLE EQUIPMENT CAN BE. THEIR LATEST TRIAL OF THE FIRST AUSTRALIAN DESIGN RULES (ADRS) APPROVED AND ROAD REGISTERED 100 PER CENT ELECTRIC TRUCK MIXER IS REFLECTING THIS PUSH.
Putzmeister Oceania is renowned for its dedication to sustainability and innovation.
The construction equipment supplier and manufacturer has advanced electric machinery in recent years with the goal of lowering carbon emissions, increasing productivity, and meeting the construction industry’s increasing need for eco-friendly solutions.
The use of electric-powered machinery has become a crucial part of the construction industry’s green transformation as it struggles with the requirement to lower its carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency.
It has introduced electric power into some of its best-selling goods, providing substitutes for conventional diesel-powered machinery, with many of these solutions being touted for potential use in major government infrastructure projects across Australia.
Chris Bartlett, Head of Construction Equipment at Putzmeister Oceania says the company is strongly committed to improving and optimising electric machinery for the betterment of several sectors across Australia.
“Many of our customers are rightfully focusing on achieving zero emission targets through implementing more sustainable technology and there’s a lot of variation as to how to achieve this,” he says. “Some are going down the path of hydrogen and other renewable sources.
“SANY, through Putzmeister Oceania, has strong alliances in the battery electric space, particularly in countries such as China, where there’s already an extensive commercial vehicle electric infrastructure.”
When compared to conventional dieselpowered machinery, electric machinery significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This is particularly crucial in areas where governments are increasingly enforcing stricter environmental standards.
By replacing diesel engines with electric motors, Putzmeister Oceania’s electric machinery helps construction companies lower their carbon footprint and align with global sustainability goals.
Electric motors are quieter than their diesel counterparts, significantly reducing noise levels on job sites. In urban areas, where
noise pollution is a growing concern, electric machinery offers a practical solution. This helps maintain good relations with the local community and complies with noise regulations that are often a limiting factor on construction schedules.
Through its innovative electric-powered pumps, boom trucks, and stationary units, Putzmeister Oceania is helping pave the way for a more sustainable, quieter, and cleaner construction process.
It’s for these reasons that electric machinery and equipment is no longer a novelty, instead a preferred choice for contractors and infrastructure companies alike. Especially in large-scale and government-led projects.
This momentum shift can already be seen on some of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects.
The high-tech trains that will be used when the Suburban Rail Loop is in operation will be powered fully by renewable energy, reflecting the industry and nation’s prioritisation and preference towards sustainable machinery.
Low noise
performance are just some of the benefits of the SANY eMixer.
Images: Putzmeister
Electric pumps, cranes and hoists are also being used as part of Lendleases’ works at One Sydney Harbour.
Incentives, such as the Federal Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund, as well as funding handed out through the government-owned Clean Energy Finance Corporation are also contributing to the tide turning on electric equipment and machinery use.
SANY Oceania, along with Putzmeister Oceania, are taking this acceleration into its own hands.
TRIAL INSIGHTS
As part of its development and promotion of electric machinery, Putzmeister Oceania is undergoing a brand-new trial, partnering with Holcim Australia, a leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions, to evaluate the performance of Australia’s first roadworthy, 100 per cent electric concrete truck mixer.
The SANY eMixer was the first ADR (Australian Design Rules) approved 8x4 rigid chassis in Australia to be fully electric powered, using CCS2 DC charging infrastructure.
The truck has the flexibility to accommodate various truck bodies, allowing it to be used in different applications such as cement mixers, tippers, and waste industry vehicles.
The trial has helped to validate the truck’s performance in real-world conditions, particularly in the concrete industry, where it has shown promising results in terms of battery life and operational efficiency.
During the slump stand mixing process, the truck consumed an average of 1.5 per cent of its battery capacity, which is very negligible. When the truck is parked and idling, such as when waiting in a queue to unload at a concrete pump, it averaged less than one per cent of battery power per half hour.
The truck has completed several full day’s work in the city of Melbourne, returning to the plant with an average 35 per cent battery charge remaining, which can then be recharged in four to five hours overnight.
The SANY eMixer’s 350-Kilowatt hour battery capacity, eight-hour average run time and CCS2 DC charging inlet contribute to a quiet, powerful and emission free design, which Bartlett says has been designed with optimal power and performance in mind.
“This truck’s mixer system is electric over hydraulic and operates through two individual motors,” Bartlett says. “By driving the hydraulic system through its
own electrical motor (mPTO) and not a traditional Power Take Off Unit (PTO), we significantly reduce our power consumption while allowing us to tune the output RPM to achieve the most efficient hydraulic output to turn the barrel.
“From the hydraulic pump back, the truck is an Australian Manufactured, CESCO mixer unit, it was important for us to maintain a system that operators are familiar with, suited for dry mix requirements, and can be locally supported Australia-wide.”
The high quality CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited) Battery has also been designed and commissioned by one of China’s largest battery manufacturers and technology developers, and proven to perform. This design approach has proven to be more efficient and effective compared to using a single high-capacity motor to power both the drive and the mixing functions. Bartlett says working closely with the drivers to understand the capabilities and requirements has been crucial for the successful implementation of the technology, saying that the truck has been well-received by operators thus far.
Another key learning throughout the trial has been the need for accessible charging infrastructure. The higher upfront cost of electric machines, and the ongoing development of more efficient batteries are some of the hurdles the industry must address to fully realise the potential of electric machinery.
where this technology will succeed.”
He adds that the project also exemplifies the strength, united goal and bond between SANY Oceania and Putzmeister Oceania, which is likely to lead to further developments in the electric machinery and equipment space.
“We’re leveraging Putzmeister’s reputation as a leading brand in concrete pumping machinery and intersecting with SANY’s global leadership in renewable energy and machine electrification. The SANY eMixer stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability,” he says.
“This collaboration brings together the best of both worlds, offering a cutting-edge solution that meets the growing demand for eco-friendly construction equipment.”
FUTURE ABOUND
Putzmeister Oceania plans to expand SANY’s electric product range, including larger excavators, wheel loaders, and even equipment for the mining industry, as it continues to prove the viability of electric technology in real-world trials.
For Bartlett, the chance to improve electric machinery and equipment options, for the betterment of the entire sector, is an enticing opportunity.
“Electric vehicles have been around for over 150 years, in various capacities. And it’s only
“THE SANY EMIXER STANDS AS A TESTAMENT TO INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY.”
really in the past 10 years that there’s been such a leap in battery technology to allow for this type of rapid development,” he says.
The SANY eMixer is compatible with current DC charging infrastructure, with SANY Oceania itself offering private charging infrastructure, in an effort to accelerate the rollout of a national electric vehicle charging network. Bartlett adds that it’s vital that the industry continues to conduct field trials and demonstrations with partners such as Holcim Australia, to showcase the capabilities and benefits of electric commercial vehicles.
“Our sustainability goals at Putzmeister Oceania align with many businesses in the industry,” Bartlett says. “Through our investment in completing ADR certification, localisation to the Australian requirements and partnering with leading Australian businesses to trial, we’ve been able to determine the benefits and applications
“The technology is only getting better. It’ll allow existing products to be revolutionised into the electrical space, where it’s needed, and where there’s a benefit.”
As the industry continues to adopt greener technologies, companies such as Putzmeister Oceania will be at the forefront of this transformation, providing the solutions needed to create a more sustainable future for construction. Now the organisation is putting the call out to industry to show its support for electric machinery, firstly by implementing plans for electric equipment use in projects Australia-wide, secondly by helping to accelerate the delivery of electric vehicle charging.
To learn more about SANY Oceania electric machinery and equipment offerings visit: www.sanyoceania.com.au
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
Contract awarded for SRL
A $1.7 billion contract has been awarded to build the northern section of twin tunnels between Glen Waverley and Box Hill, as part of the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East project. The successful bidder, Terra Verde is a global consortium of Webuild, GS Engineering and Construction, and Bouygues Construction Australia – all with deep experience here and overseas, including on the Metro Tunnel Project, North East Link, the Forrestfield-Airport Link in Perth, and Grand Paris Express. Commissioned by Suburban Rail Loop Authority, the joint venture will excavate two parallel tunnels of nearly 10 kilometres, between the future stations of Box Hill and Glen Waverley. As well as oversee the creation of 39 cross passages between them, two station boxes, two tunnel access shafts and one intervention and ventilation shaft. The tunnels will be excavated using tunnel-boring machines (TBMs). Suburban Rail Loop is a 90-kilometre orbital rail line that will help transform the way Melbourne grows, improving travel efficiency for more than 80 per cent of Melburnians and take more than 600,000 cars off the roads every day. Tunnels North is the second major construction contract awarded for SRL East, after the contract for the southern section of tunnels was awarded last year. The three other main works contracts are well progressed, with three shortlisted bidders to build the six underground stations, and two bidders vying for the Linewide contract – which includes building the trains, fitout of the tunnels and operation of the network. The first stage, SRL East, is now under construction, with tunnelling to start in 2026 and trains taking passengers in 2035.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Inland Rail awards contract to deliver Illabo to Stockinbingal section
Inland Rail has awarded John Holland the contract to deliver the Illabo to Stockinbingal section of the 1600-kilometre Inland Rail project in New South Wales. John Holland will deliver design and construction works for the next 39-kilometre section of the project between Illabo and Stockinbingal (I2S). The I2S project includes the construction of several bridges and level crossings, numerous culverts and a new crossing loop. The 39-kilometre Illabo to Stockinbingal section of Inland Rail will create a new direct route from east of Illabo tracking north to Stockinbingal in New South Wales and is the only new section of track from Beveridge to Parkes. The Illabo to Stockinbingal connection is one of seven sections traversing inland NSW. The route will bypass the townships of Cootamundra and
Bethungra and the winding, steep section of track known as the Bethungra Spiral on the Main South line, opening a more efficient way to transport freight. The project is expected to create up to 400 jobs to build the new track, bridges and level crossings along the newly approved section with upgrades to a further 3.5 kilometres of existing train track for necessary integration works to the main rail line at Illabo. The project will also involve the construction of infrastructure for communications, drainage, signage, fencing, and temporary worker’s accommodation. Inland Rail said John Holland was selected based on experience delivering major civil and rail projects, including being part of the consortium delivering the Inland Rail Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 project last year in New South Wales and the North-East Rail Line Upgrade (NERL) in Victoria in 2021. John Holland is also delivering the second tranche of the Beveridge to Albury Inland Rail section in Victoria, with construction works also starting in 2025.
Contract awarded for T3 Bankstown Line
A major contract has been awarded for important infrastructure upgrades to convert the T3 Bankstown Line to metro standards in New South Wales. The Sydney Metro Southwest Metro Conversion and Station Works (SWM4) package has been awarded to Australian-owned railway infrastructure company, Martinus. When opened, passengers will have safe, fast and reliable metro journeys to take them from Bankstown to Central in 28 minutes, Belmore to Martin Place in 24 minutes, Marrickville to Waterloo in eight minutes and from Dulwich Hill, under the harbour, to Victoria Cross in the city’s north in 21 minutes. A total of 15 bridges and 66 locations, including car parks and roads, adjacent to the railway corridor between Sydenham and Bankstown will be upgraded as part of the contract scope. The team will complete a program of work over the duration of the 12-month closure which started in September, to install barriers, bollards and other structures to reduce the risk of vehicles impacting on the network. The 12-month closure of the T3 Bankstown line to upgrade the railway to metro standards involves an intensive program of work including installation of mechanical gap filler technology to allow seamless access to metro trains for all commuters, as well the conversion of Bankstown Station to support Sydney Trains and Sydney Metro services, and the installation of critical trackside signalling and communications equipment.
QUEENSLAND
Contract secured for Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade
In Queensland, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has awarded Seymour Whyte, in a joint venture with John Holland, the contract to deliver stage one of the Beerburrum to Nambour (B2N) Rail Upgrade project. The project will include the duplication of the rail line between Beerburrum and Beerwah and the straightening of the rail line between Beerburrum and Glass House Mountains. As well as an upgraded park ’n’ ride facility at Beerburrum, new or upgraded road overpasses and upgraded train signalling systems. B2N Stage one now advances to its next phase under a Collaborative Project Delivery Agreement between the Department and the John Holland Seymour Whyte Joint Venture. This contract award allows the joint venture with its designers SMEC Australia and WSP Australia to continue to finalise the designs and start construction of the major works package. The joint venture brings experience to the project, having been appointed in 2023 to undertake preconstruction and design work as part of an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process. This included collaborating with TMR and Queensland Rail in design development, stakeholder engagement, site investigations and site preparation activities, and environmental and cultural heritage planning and approvals. Preliminary designs will be further refined, shared with the community and finalised, with construction, testing and commissioning activities delivered in a staged sequence of packages over the next three years. The B2N Rail Upgrade will increase the capacity and reliability of the North Coast Line, enabling more efficient travel and improved passenger and freight connections between the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Brisbane. This upgrade plays an important role in broader transport planning for an enhanced and integrated public transport network that better connects Sunshine Coast communities. B2N Stage one ties in with the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line at Beerwah and is among the projects being planned together to improve public transport services and infrastructure for the growing South East Queensland region.
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