The Australian Pipeliner January 2023

EXECUTIVE REPORTS

APGA President’s Message 8

POLICY

Gas and Energy Policy 12

APGA MEMBER Q&A

Q&A with Sage Consulting Solution’s Susan Jaques 14

FUTURE FUELS

The future of pipeline corrosion prevention and management 16

PIPELINES IN NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW prepares for energy transition thanks to support from the gas industry 18

CORROSION

kwik-ZIP spacers help with corrosion management 20

Belzona Superwrap II restores strength to 26-metre sewage pipeline 22

Technology identifies corrosion in hard to inspect pipelines 24 Cortec solutions solve corrosion during hydrotesting 26

Leaders in corrosion protection provide support on Victorian pipeline 28

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

Learning from the experts: YPF experiences Northern Goldfields pipeline 30

Potential pipeline to supply drought vulunerable communities in Queensland 32

Austrack adds Superior’s latest Crawler Carriers to its fleet 34 Pipe Tek completes data logging for NGI 36 Entrenching the east coast’s energy future 38

REHAB & REPAIR

Jemena exemplifies community engagement around Bathurst 40

STATS commissioned for significant subsea project 44 Pro Pipe Services’ growth invites collaboration 46 PE PIPELINES

McElroy’s TracStar® iSeries saving operators time & money 48 APGA

Gearing up for another Convention & Exhibition 50 Melbourne Christmas Lunch Photos 52 2023 events schedule 54

REGULARS

APGA members 56 People on the Move 58

The Young Pipeliners Forum onsite at APA Group's Northern Goldfields Interconnector. ImagecourtesyofAPGA.

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CEO

John Murphy COO

Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR

Molly Hancock molly.hancock@primecreative.com.au

JOURNALIST

Jenna May jenna.may@primecreative.com.au

Christian Alphonso christian.alphonso@primecreative.com.au

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Nick Lovering nick.lovering@primecreative.com.au

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ART DIRECTOR

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DESIGNERS

Kerry Pert, Louis Romero

COPYRIGHT

The Australian Pipeliner is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in The Australian Pipeliner 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 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 The Australian Pipeliner are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2021

ARTICLES

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The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association’s (APGA) vision is to lead the sustainable growth in pipeline infrastructure for Australasia’s energy. APGA is a non-profit organisation formed to represent the interests of its members involved in: the ownership, operation, maintenance, design, engineering, supply and construction of pipelines, platforms and all other structures used in or in connection with the drilling for, extraction and transmission of hydrocarbons, solids, slurries and similar substances both onshore and offshore. As a single voice representing the collective interests of its members, APGA is dedicated to encouraging the extension and development of the industry. The Australian Pipeliner is the official journal of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) and is distributed to members without charge and circulated to interested organisations throughout Australia and overseas. It is also available on subscription. The publishers welcome editorial contributions from interested parties. However, neither the publishers nor APGA accept responsibility for the content of these contributions and the views contained therein are not necessarily the views of the publishers or APGA. Neither the publishers nor APGA accept responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. All communications should be directed to the publishers.

President’s Message

Happy New Year! A new year, a new commitment one would say, but as I write this, we have only had one APGA Christmas party so far and therefore I don’t think the usual pledges to get fit, eat healthy and consume less would have begun. However, they might be now, with one to also work less, as the ending of 2022 was at such a frenetic pace. But we are pipeliners, we are tough, and let’s face it, we like to get ‘stuff’ done.

At the end of 2022, APGA undertook research on people’s attitudes and sentiment towards gas and compared it to the same research we undertook at the end of 2021. After reading the report, I am confident that 2023 will be more positive for our industry.

While our footprint on the ground still needs to have the right social license, communities are also being more realistic about the need for an energy mix and would prefer an underground energy transport system to an above ground alternate. Gas is gaining a positive perception for a ‘back-up plan’ and people feel it should be about personal choice for which energy to use. This is the voice of the consumer, and while we still have policy and economic triggers to overcome, it is with hope that these influencers can lead to a better and more realistic discussion.

With the ramp up of secretariat resources and the advocacy plan in full throttle for 2023, we can all do our part to educate and share the voice. We need to continue our research in alternate fuels, we need to increase the credibility of our role in decarbonisation, and we need to demonstrate our support in energy

security and affordability.

The focus for the January edition of The Australian Pipeliner is on pipeline construction, coatings and linings, and rehab and repair. There is also a spread of images from Melbourne’s Christmas lunch.

New South Wales takes centre stage as the Pipeliner explores projects in the area and the impact on the pipe and gas industry.

Although already acknowledged, I wanted to say a final and personal thanks from the Board and wider members to some long-term active members who have put in a huge commitment and service supporting APGA. Stuart McLennan and Spencer MacSween for their roles on the WA Committee and the WA Golf Day, and Mark Fothergill and Richard McDonough for their leadership roles in the Research and Standards Committee.

Lastly, I would also like to show appreciation for Peter Heffernan who wore many hats over the course of some 18 years in the secretariat, making sure we kept financially sound. Enjoy your retirement.

Now it’s time to smash out 2023. Get after it!!

ABN: 29 098 754 324

APGA Secretariat Registered Office: 7 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 (PO Box 5416, Kingston ACT 2604)

T: +61 2 6273 0577

E: apga@apga.org.au

W: www.apga.org.au

Chief Executive Officer

Steve Davies

Corporate Services Manager

Peter Heffernan

National Policy Manager

Jordan McCollum Communications Manager Lawrence Shelton

Engagement Manager

Dean Bennett Membership Officer Katy Spence Events Coordinator Matthew Freeborough

DONNA MCDOWALL APGA PRESIDENT

Helping

Austrack is passionate about providing the construction, mining  and agricultural industries with quality new and used equipment

We have a long history in the construction and mining industries within Australia, and this experience serves to ensure it’s clients find the right equipment solution for their needs.

Austrack believes in raising the bar with great service, effective solutions, competitive prices and ongoing support.

Our industry knowledge keeps us consistently seeking equipment that will make your projects easier, cost effective and time effic ient.

Santos and Brickworks finalise gas supply agreement

Santos has entered into a new long-term agreement to extend its gas supply with Brickworks. Santos Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gallagher said the deal would see Santos supplying up to 35 petajoules of natural gas to Brickworks at competitive, stable, CPI-linked prices for 11 years from 2025.

“The deal is important to Santos because it provides long-term cash flows that will support our ability to fund future drilling and development in the Cooper Basin, Eastern Queensland, and at Narrabri,” said Gallagher.

Santos and Brickworks share an ambition towards decarbonisation and are intending to collaborate on exploring net-zero energy transition opportunities.

“Brickworks is a loyal, long-standing and highly-valued customer of Santos, which recognises that more investment in new domestic gas supply sources is the only sustainable way to put downward pressure on gas prices and secure reliable, long-term gas supply,” Gallagher said.

Gallagher explained that Santos’ Narrabri Gas Project is 100 per cent committed to the

$300 m Toowoomba-Warwick

The Toowoomba Regional and Southern Downs Regional Councils have voted in favour of the $300 million Toowoomba to Warwick Pipeline (T2W) project.

The pipeline will carry raw water from Wivenhoe Dam and connect with Toowoomba Regional Council’s existing water infrastructure to deliver water to Warwick and will be an opportunity to deliver treated water to the satellite communities of Cambooya, Greenmount, Nobby, and Clifton.

Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said the councils’ endorsements mean good jobs and better services for the southwest regions, with pre-construction works to begin shortly.

“We’re thrilled that Toowoomba and Southern

Verbrec repairs vital section of Roma Pipeline system

Verbrec Infrastructure Services repaired a section of the Roma Pipeline system, located in Queensland, for one of Asia-Pacific’s largest oil and gas producers.

Constructed from carbon steel, the Roma East Backbone is a 34.1 km section of DN500 pipeline running from the Roma East Nodal Compressor Station to the Roma Hub 2 Compressor Station.

In November 2020, Verbrec was engaged by the energy producer to perform direct assessment and temporary repair on the Roma East Backbone to qualify the severity of a pipe wall anomaly found during a previous inline inspection.

Following the assessment, an internal manufacturing mill defect was identified, which the asset owner determined needed to be cut out and removed from the alignment. Verbrec

was engaged as a sole source supplier to execute the work.

The repair was scheduled to be performed during a Total Plant Outage of the compressor station with a maximum duration of 92 hours.

Prior to the shutdown Verbrec delivered all planning and engineering, including the development of all required scopes of work and work packs.

This included project management and the procurement of equipment, materials and labour, as well as excavation and backfilling, pipeline isolating and purging, and cutting and welding.

Once the section had been replaced, Verbrec conducted non-destructive testing of the ‘golden welds’ for client acceptance and recoated the pipeline.

The project was successfully completed in

domestic gas market.

“[The project] is a vitally important to freeing up Cooper Basin gas for SA customers and increasing gas supply for east coast consumers, particularly those in NSW,” said Gallagher.

The Hunter Gas Pipeline is just as important to get Narrabri gas to market and potentially provide a second pathway to move Queensland gas south.

“If governments are serious about getting gas prices down, they should have their shoulders to the wheel to remove barriers and accelerate investment in these projects,” said Gallagher.

Pipeline receives green light

Downs have supported this project and –subject to some final negotiations – we are now in a position to meet our commitment to get this project underway and on track for scheduled completion by the end of 2026,” he said.

Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said the collaboration between two levels of government would deliver significant benefits to Southern Downs communities.

“We are most grateful for the continued support from the Queensland Government and our neighbours Toowoomba Regional Council and look forward to ongoing collaboration to see this drought-resilience project come to fruition,” he said.

compliance with the AS/NZS 2885 series of standards covering the design, construction, maintenance and operations of gas and liquid petroleum pipelines.

In total, it took Verbrec approximately 60 hours to complete the critical path activities of the project, including a 24-hour stand down for NDT on the welds, after which the backfilling took place.

The T2W Pipeline will carry water from Wivenhoe Dam.

Verbrec was engaged to perform direct assessment and temporary repair on the Roma East Backbone.

Equinox executes FEED at Bayu Undan CCS

Equinox Engineering is executing the front-end engineering design (FEED) of the Bayu Undan Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Project.

The FEED study includes the onshore gas processing facility design to capture, compress and dehydrate 2.3 million tonnes per year of carbon dioxide for transport and sequestration.

The new facility will tie-in to the LNG facility at Darwin (DLNG), Northern Territories, Australia.

The scope of the work includes technology selection, equipment specification, facility layout and modelling, HAZOP and safety workshops, as well as CAPEX and OPEX estimating.

The Bayu-Undan CCS Project targets the capture of up to 10 Mtpa of CO2 at a Darwin hub – initially from the DLNG, with potential future expansion to proximal third party.

Captured CO2 will be transported to, and stored in, the offshore Bayu-Undan reservoir in Timor Leste waters.

The project will require additions and modifications to the DLNG facility, which is proposed as the foundation for a CO2 processing hub, as well as the repurposing of the

Bayu-Undan to Darwin Gas Export Pipeline, the offshore processing facility and the facility wells for re-injection of the processed CO2. Santos is working closely with the Timor-Leste Government towards the necessary agreements and regulatory framework that will be required for the Bayu-Undan CCS Project.

Yarra Valley Water launches green hydrogen pilot

Yarra Valley Water (YVW) has launched a pilot project to test technology which would enable renewable hydrogen energy to be produced at its Aurora treatment plant.

The Victorian government has awarded $11.9 million in funding from Round 2 of the Energy Innovation Fund to build a permanent renewable hydrogen facility at Aurora HydroGen 1, if the pilot is successful.

Trials will test a Victorian made high-tech electrolyser to validate its performance before developing a Victorian Government funded larger-scale facility. It is expected there will be 10 FTE construction jobs and 4 FTE ongoing jobs from Hydro-Gen 1.

“We’re committed to doing what we can to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of our climate resilience planning. Australia’s goal is to

be a major supplier of clean hydrogen by 2030 and the water industry has a critical role in providing a commercially viable renewable hydrogen future,” YVW's Managing Director Pat McCafferty said.

“Recycled water and renewable energy are needed to make sustainable hydrogen and we’re producing both at Aurora, which is powered by green energy from our onsite food waste to energy facility. And the by-product from hydrogen production – oxygen – can potentially be used to make our sewage treatment processes more efficient.”

The project will be delivered through collaboration with Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG)

AGIG CEO Craig de Laine said renewable hydrogen projects such as that delivered by

“Yarra Valley’s renewable hydrogen project is an excellent demonstration of a low carbon future and shows the very significant role water businesses will likely play in the energy transition,” said de Laine.

Yarra Valley Water will be a key part of the low carbon energy transition in Victoria.

The FEED study includes the facility to capture, compress and dehydrate 2.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The Victorian government has awarded $11.9 million to build a renewable hydrogen facility at Aurora Hydro-Gen 1 if the pilot is successful.

Gas and energy policy

By Jordan McCollum, National Policy Manager, APGA

The pipeline industry has known for some time now that it has all of the constituent components required to deliver 100 per cent hydrogen infrastructure once called upon by customers and producers.

However, this is not well understood by the broader public.

APGA’s Building Hydrogen Infrastructure Symposium last November provided an opportunity for the pipeline industry to bring this understanding into the public domain. Combining twelve presentations from fourteen domestic and international experts, the symposium delivered the resounding conclusion that the pipeline industry is ready for hydrogen – and it’s ready today.

APGA CEO Steve Davies opened the symposium by talking about the advantage of moving and storing molecules and that the gas infrastructure industry is confident in its ability to build new hydrogen pipelines today. I followed Steve’s presentation talking to new analysis on the total customer cost of heat, preliminary results from which indicate that renewable gas is costcompetitive with renewable electricity for decarbonising gas use in the home.

I was followed by David Norman, CEO of the Future Fuels CRC, who provided international context in which Europe is leading the charge. Between the European Hydrogen Backbone and a commitment to deliver 100 GW of electrolysis capacity by 2030, the rest of the world has some catching up to do.

This was perfect context for the session that followed which focused on building new hydrogen infrastructure. Marzieh Amanabadi and Josh Wickham from GPA engineering started the session detailing exactly what needs to be done to design and deliver hydrogen pipelines in Australia today and were followed by Scott Sharbanee of Enscope who confirmed the same for hydrogen facilities.

Craig Clarke from GHD then demonstrated the case-by-case nature of deciding whether gas pipeline repurposing or new pipeline construction will deliver better outcomes for future hydrogen customers. Interestingly, Craigs’ examples aligned well with the pipeline repurposing cost estimates seen in the European Hydrogen Backbone discussed by David Norman earlier in the day.

If the second session started to bust myths about building new hydrogen infrastructure, the third session blew them out of the water, starting with

100 per cent hydrogen turbines and compression. Baker Hughes’ Serena Gabriele came all the way from Italy to make it known that 100 per cent hydrogen pipeline compressors and turbines are such a mature technology that they are close to delivery of next-generation technologies.

Further myths to fall came from Peter Andrews of Pipeline Actuation Control and Cameron Dinnis from LFF Australia.

From confirmation that hydrogen-ready line pipe is being manufactured around the globe today, to further confirmation that hydrogen ready meters and values are also readily available, there can be few myths remaining about the Australian pipeline industry’s ability to develop hydrogen pipelines today.

The day ended with a session focused on gas infrastructure repurposing plans of Australia’s three largest gas infrastructure owners with all three demonstrating clear progress. The revelation of greatest interest for me however came from GPA Engineering’s Margaret Gayen who detailed the comprehensive study of AGIG’s South Australian and Victorian distribution networks, finding that a transition to 100 per cent hydrogen should be a low-complexity exercise.

The day also included four panel sessions hosted by APGA President Donna McDowall, Fyfe Executive Chairman Mark Dayman, Advisian

breadth of the presentations. Donna took the opportunity as first panel host to put the industry on notice – don’t shy away from pointy questions, ask them, because we’re not going to move forward if we stick at the high level.

And as was remarked through several sessions, it is this ability for those within the pipeline industry to collaborate and challenge ourselves that sets this industry apart.

This comradery and foresight as the conduits for energy supply is behind the pipeline industry’s ability to deliver hydrogen infrastructure readiness well ahead of producers and customers having worked through their commercial nuances.

It is my hope that this symposium helps assure anyone who attended or watches the presentation web series that the gas pipeline industry is ready and able to deliver new hydrogen infrastructure as soon as it is called for. If you were unable to attend, or would like to watch your favourite presentation again, you can find the presentation web series via www.apga.org.au/building-hydrogeninfrastructure-symposium-2022-resources.

I would like to end with a quote from Margaret Gayen which I feel perfectly summed up the day: “I think it’s looking up – we can do this”. Yes Margaret, we certainly can.

Hydrogen Transformation Partner Phil O’Neil, and myself, teasing out all of the untouched questions amongst the

APGA’s Building Hydrogen Infrastructure Symposium in Melbourne.

Q&A with Sage Consulting Solution’s

Susan Jaques

Sage Consulting Solution’s Susan Jaques shares her experiences in the pipeline industry and what it is like to be part of a committee.

Tell us who you are and what you do? Well, like perhaps many people in the industry, I'd say I'm an accidental pipeline engineer. I didn't plan to be doing this kind of work, but here I am, and I love it.

I have a civil engineering degree from the University of Alberta (1993) in Canada, where I worked for TransCanada as a pipeline engineer for a few years, and then I moved to Brisbane Australia in 1997 for more pipeline engineering work.

The civil engineering degree kind of betrays my interest in landscapes, structures, soil types, and construction over piping specs and valve design. I really like working on tangible things that you can see, that serve a purpose, like structures. And pipelines are structures, which we sometimes don’t consider. There aren’t that many civil engineers in this industrial petrochemical industry, but we know who we are, and I can tell when I’m talking to a civil engineer. We get the soil types, structural issues, landscapes, and construction side of things.

Being in the pipeline engineering game has provided me with a wide range of exposure to all kinds of engineering. What I’m observing now is engineering is kind of morphing to be less about the discipline that you graduated with, and more about an amazing melding of all of the disciplines. Your ‘degree’ category (civil, mechanical, process) does inform what you might end up doing in your career (civil engineers rarely end up doing electrical work, for example), but engineering is getting more and more diffuse. In the ‘olden days’ (which equates to early in my career), engineers were the ones in the background doing all the calculations and not needing to talk to anyone. It’s completely different now, especially since computers do the calculations for us. Engineers need different skills now.

Engineers, particularly project engineers and non-specialists, and, I’d say, pipeline engineers, need to know a little bit about a lot of things, and then also need to have enough knowledge to take responsibility for a lot of decisions and judgments based on limited information. It can be a tough ask sometimes.

I'm a “company of one” solo consultant in the industry, and I love it. It’s best when I’m working with a variety of clients on AS2885 Safety Management Study workshop facilitation, and I’m training young engineers on what AS2885 is all about. I’m helping engineers see the value in being good engineers through skills and competency development such as communication, ethics and decision-making.

Which committees, are or have, you been a member of?

There are three organisations that I'm on committees with: APGA, Engineers Australia (EA) and Standards Australia.

In thinking about this, I’m on a lot of committees! With EA I work on the CELM Project Excellence committee, which came out of another committee, the EA Project Engineering Working Group. I’m also the manager of EA’s Risk Engineering Body of Knowledge (REBoK) website, which is run by a committee.

With Standards Australia, ME-038 is of course the big one that I'm known for, which oversees the AS2885 suite as well as AS4822 and AS3862. I'm also the facilitator on other committees for Standards Australia, including button batteries, concrete access chambers, and electrical cabling. So that gives me a nice wide variety of technical standards committees. But you want to talk about the APGA committees: I'm on four.

Firstly, and with the longest membership, I'm on the Young Pipeliners Forum (YPF), as a national representative of ‘the past’ I suppose. I was part of the team that created the YPF in 2006. The second one is the Research and Standards Committee (RSC). I've been on the RSC since about 2017, and I'm now a newly minted Executive Committee Member of RSC. Thirdly is the Pipeline Engineering Competency System (PECS) committee, keeping the competencies up to date and relevant. Finally, the newest one is the Consultant's Committee, which only just started up this year.

Why all the involvement in Committee work? Good question! What interests me about committees is two things, first and foremost is a very basic fear of missing out (FOMO). I just like to know what’s going on, and it’s important to me to give back to the industry that’s been so good to me over the years.

But bigger than FOMO is the other factor in my interest in belonging to committees: being part of the outputs of these committees. Committees are – or should be – problem solvers. So, I get on committees because while I like knowing what's going on, mostly I like being a problem solver. Most of the committees I participate in are the ones that produce documents.

That's what I'm really keen on: writing things that are useful to other people. We talk about communication as a key skill for engineers, and

Susan Jaques is a trainer, facilitator, mentor at Sage Consulting Solutions.

why it is so important and why everyone needs to communicate better. One of the essential outputs of all the committees I'm on is the written and published documentation. So, the Standards Committee documents industry requirements in standards. PECS outlines the competency standards for people to get better at their roles. With Engineers Australia, the REBoK is a body of knowledge, and the output is a (fledgling) website that gives access to the body of knowledge. I haven’t even yet mentioned the AS2885.info unofficial committee. Just a group of ex-committee members trying to keep the knowledge transfer happening.

So those are the ones that I like the most, committees that are focused on delivering useful documents.

How have the APGA committees contributed to the industry?

I am so proud to have been involved in YPF all the way along. Former AGPA CEO Cheryl Cartwright was an instigator of that, and the contribution of the YPF to industry has been huge for the last 15 years through networking and learning events. And it just keeps going and it kind of perpetuates itself, I think it's fantastic. And I hope that continues. So YPF what it has done to the industry is of course, give young people a place to start. And that's great.

The PECS committee contributed a framework of 240 competencies that a person can look at to see where they fit in the industry and what they might want to learn about. Keeping those updated is an ongoing challenge.

RSC is a home for people who are doing the research around pipelines, and adapting that into the standards that apply to the pipeline industry. It’s been really great to be involved in seeing firsthand the outputs of the research, and working to incorporate that into the standards, or at least to distribute the knowledge efficiently through training (there’s that knowledge transfer again!).

That’s the contributions to the industry from committees: knowledge transfer, awareness and networking. The committees allow people to meet each other, people you might not meet in your working life or through the normal course of business. The committees give you exposure to people with who you might not work with except on the committee.

What has being part of the APGA committees done for your career?

Networking and the opportunity to meet new people is huge, as well as the exchanging of knowledge and learning from others. When you start on a committee as a younger person the exposure to all the knowledge of all the other people is just unparalleled. Again, it's exposure to

people who aren't in your company, so you see that there are other ways of thinking other than just from within your own organisation.

What would you say to a person considering joining a committee?

Before joining a committee, find out what the purpose of the committee is. Make sure you understand what its purpose is and the principles of it and that you can contribute along those principles. If it's a committee whose purpose is to write a document, make sure you're coming to write documents, not just to talk about problems.

It's not just a line on your resume. If you're looking to join a committee, you obviously also suffer from FOMO. Use that fear of missing out to become really engaged with the opportunities to be exposed to such impressive people in the industry who are already established.

What is it like being in a committee, or so many committees?

It is like joining a tribe. But it’s a tribe that you don’t get to choose who else is in it. You don’t always have the ability to choose the direction but know that everyone on the committee working towards consensus. Understanding the concept of consensus is not only a key aspect of committee work, but consensus can be an important concept in working life in the engineering game, too.

The best thing though, specifically with the committees I’m on, is that you can become more

than colleagues with your committee, you can become really good friends. That's the thing I guess is that you meet people who have similar interests on committees, or similar work life challenges. So you get to meet birds of a feather.

But it is a commitment, most certainly. It is a commitment that you need to be able to make in terms of time and brain space.

Having been on so many, what makes them work?

The successful ones are two things: they are outputs driven, and they are egalitarian. Outputs are those useful documents I keep mentioning, and egalitarian is that everyone gets a chance to talk and contribute. I’ve noticed the ones that aren't so successful or enjoyable are the ones where the chair or facilitator does all the talking and just reports back to everyone and says “done, any questions?”. The best committees are the ones where I know something about everyone on the committee, because everyone has talked and shared.

I imagine you're going to continue to work on the committees?

I imagine you’re right. I sometimes think about dropping out to have more ‘me-time’, but then I know that I’ll just miss them, and I don’t need more me-time. I know I would miss finding out about what's going on, and what my committeemates are up to. So yes, of course, I'm going to commit to continuing on, if they'll have me.

Susan is part of four APGA Committees.

The future of pipeline corrosion prevention and management

By David Norman, CEO of Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre

With over 39,000 kilometres of steel gas pipeline operating in Australia, our industry needs to innovate to stay ahead of the constant corrosion of our assets.

2022 was a pivotal year for corrosion research with our researchers at Deakin University delivering a number of finds. This included: Prototyping of a new pipeline corrosion control technology that can minimise the most serious corrosion threats to buried pipelines; corrosion under disbonded coatings; and stray current corrosion from conventional cathodic protection systems. Prototyping and demonstration of this technology is a critical step in developing a practical product for future use by our industry.

An independent and critical analysis of existing and new trenchless technologies enables us to rehabilitate or repurpose existing pipeline assets. This project developed our understanding on the suitability of trenchless technologies for gas pipelines, and compared performance and working principles to understand their advantages and limitations. The traditional method of pipeline rehabilitation through digging-up operation can be costly. The key research outcome of this project is a stronger knowledge base for the Australian pipeline industry, and to assist with the selection of coatings and linings for the trenchless rehabilitation of pipelines. This technology also has the potential to be used for repurposing pipelines for transporting

future fuels such as hydrogen.

This year our researchers also progressed other important areas of corrosion research –keyhole damage repair. Most of the direct cost of coating repairs is the required digging operation, so our project develops streamlined methods for local coating repair and treatment that do not require uncovering the pipe. The corrosion can be repaired by injecting corrosion mitigation fluids near defects along the pipe.

We also go a better understanding of twopart epoxy coatings. Epoxy coatings extend the lifetime of pipelines but if the coating systems are not correctly selected they can fail prematurely and cannot be economically replaced. This project increases the reliability of coating selection tests by testing and evaluating the effect of additional contributing factors that are not sufficiently assessed by existing standard tests, such as mixing ratio and testing under wet conditions, and by comparing accelerated laboratory test with controlled field exposures.

But our industry continues to evolve, and hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines are already being developed. With these new products comes new corrosion issues to address. Researchers at Deakin and Melbourne Universities are researching developing in-situ

Corrosion prevention, management and repair is a real opportunity for the whole industry to apply innovation.

coatings to repurpose Australia’s natural gas pipelines to carry hydrogen. In-situ coatings can be applied cost effectively, without exposure or removal of the buried pipe.

Gaining fundamental understanding of hydrogen embrittlement resistance of existing and new energy pipelines that could be used for the transportation and storage of hydrogen containing fuels by means of a range of advanced technologies including Atom Probe Tomography. Corrosivity of high-density CO pipelines increases significantly when certain commonly found impurities are present. This project will provide a better understanding of what is already known globally on this phenomenon, allowing future planning for additional research. Corrosion prevention, management and repair is a real opportunity for the whole industry to apply innovation in both the construction and operation of pipelines and then go on to reap the benefits for decades to come.

You can find out more about all our research projects at futurefuelscrc.com.

You can find the latest on all Future Fuels CRC research at www.futurefuelscrc.com

While Australia moves towards achieving net zero in the coming decades, New South Wales, alongside ARENA, is working hard to do their part.

NSW prepares for energy transition thanks to support from the gas industry

New South Wales has borne witness to significant developments in the infrastructure and energy industries over the course of 2022, with projects set to improve the state – and the nations – push toward a greener energy future undertaken with the aid of the gas industry in 2023.

As the curtain began to close on 2022, leading engineering services company

Verbrec supported the construction of Australia’s first LNG import and regasification terminal, located at Port Kembla.

Similarly, Australian oil and gas exploration and production company Santos, secured its acquisition of the Hunter Gas Pipeline, which owns an approved underground gas pipeline route from Wallumbilla in Queensland to Newcastle in New South Wales.

While Australia moves towards achieving net zero in the coming decades, the state of New South Wales alongside Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is working hard to do

their part. ARENA is responding to the increasing global interest in renewable energies by supporting BlueScope Steel with $924,784 in funding to investigate options to decarbonise operations at the Port Kembla Steelworks (PKSW).

Verbrec aiding construction of Australia’s first LNG import terminal

The LNG import terminal will consist of a permanently moored floating storage regasification unit (FSRU), onshore facilities, a gas export pipeline tying into the East Coast grid, nitrogen injection facilities and additional tie in facilities.

Verbrec has been contracted to provide the

detailed design of the onshore receiving facilities, including utilities and control systems, balance of plant, non-process infrastructure, fire safety and civil roads and drainage.

In addition, the company will also provide procurement support and the overall integration of 3D modelling.

Verbrec CEO, Matt Cooper, says the company is proud to be playing a role in such an important project that is striving towards safeguarding energy security during a challenging time for the Australian energy market.

“We are looking forward to assisting the client to establish a new energy source for the NSW market,” says Cooper.

Santos acquires Hunter Gas Pipeline

The underground pipeline route passes close to Santos’ Narrabri Gas Project. Santos’ goal is to work with infrastructure developers and owners to construct the pipeline and deliver much-needed gas to east coast domestic markets in the shortest timeframe possible.

The pipeline will also be designed to transport hydrogen as customer demand evolves throughout the energy transition.

Santos’ Midstream and Clean Fuels President, Brett Woods, says the acquisition provides a pathway for the delivery of gas from the Narrabri Gas Project to the domestic market, subject to a short connection to the main pipeline, which is currently in the planning stage.

“At a time when the ACCC is forecasting domestic gas shortfalls, our Narrabri project, which is 100 per cent committed to the domestic market, will inject new supply into southern domestic markets and put downward pressure on gas prices for New South Wales businesses, manufacturers and families,” Woods says.

“It will make more gas available to cover peak demand periods, especially in circumstances where

gas power generators are called on unexpectedly to replace wind, solar and coal outages, as we have seen this winter.”

ARENA supports efforts for decarbonisation

The Port Kembla Steelworks (PKSW) Renewables and Emissions Reduction Study will consider the technical and economic viability of several decarbonisation options for the plant. This initial project will explore two main pathways to lowering emissions at Port Kembla.

Smart Carbon Usage refers to opportunities to substitute coal with renewable carbon sources in the steel production process. The project includes a series of plant trials in which BlueScope will investigate the potential to partially replace coal that is injected into the blast furnace with renewable biochar.

The project will provide valuable insights into the potential pathways to decarbonise steel production at PKSW.

BlueScope’s initial insights will be captured in a series of publicly released findings to maximise the benefit for a wider set of stakeholders.

ARENA CEO Darren Miller says reducing emissions from making steel was a priority for Australia.

“To meet our net zero targets, Australia needs to reduce emissions from the iron ore mining sector and steel industry,” says Miller.

“More than seven per cent of the world’s emissions come from steelmaking and these emissions have proven difficult to abate. We’re pleased to be partnering with an Australian company motivated to solve this decarbonisation challenge.”

“As the world’s largest exporter of iron ore, Australia has an important role to play in lowering emissions across the steel value chain. We’re excited by the insights this project will provide. This is a positive step toward building a low emissions steel industry here in Australia.”

For more information on the latest industry news, projects and products visit www.pipeliner.com.au

kwik-ZIP spacers help with corrosion management

Corrosion accelerates degradation and reduces the life of pipeline infrastructure, costing the industry millions of dollars in rehabilitation, rebuilding, and down time. kwik-ZIP knows the importance of having a corrosion management system in place and spacers are a readily available solution component available to help and reduce costs.

All pipelines are exposed to a range of physical, climatic, and chemical elements that can cause corrosion. This is often exacerbated in harsh environments, such as coastal, tropical, or desert areas, where pipelines are exposed to high salt levels or extreme temperatures that can accelerate the rate of decay.

Ignoring the effects of corrosion can be costly for asset owners, and planning for corrosion control and mitigation has many advantages, including extending the life of an asset and reducing maintenance time and costs.

Stopping corrosion

According to kwik-ZIP Managing Director Jason Linaker, an appropriate spacer system is one

simple tool that asset owners can employ as part of their corrosion management system.

“Choosing an appropriate spacer system can help mitigate the effects of corrosion on new and rehabilitated pipelines,” says Linaker.

“Spacers made from inert materials such as high-grade thermoplastic are the best choice for pipeline installations as they are resistant to the effects of corrosion.”

This is particularly important in harsh environments where spacers made from other materials such as metal do not hold up as well.

“For instance, some areas may have acid sulphate soils (ASS). A metallic spacer would be subject to severe corrosion if it were to come into contact with ASS. Even stainless steel is subject to

accelerated corrosion from such soil conditions,” says Linaker.

While corrosion can be transferred via the metallic spacer to the steel pipeline itself, inert non-metallic pipe spacers are resistant to such conditions. Corrosion can also be transferred when a new pipe is inserted into an old pipe for rehabilitation. This transfer can occur if the new pipe is made from steel, or if metallic spacers are used.

Even if the new pipe is not steel, corrosion can still breach the grout seal around the new pipe.

“Inert non-metallic spacers are resistant to the transfer of pre-existing corrosion, ensuring they remain intact throughout the life of the pipe,” Linaker says.

The HDXT Series casing spacer can be used for medium to heavy weight pipe materials including steel, ductile iron, GRP, FRP, concrete, PVC and PE.

The kwik-ZIP advantage

kwik-ZIP spacers are one of the only Australianowned spacers on the market. Designed and developed by drilling professionals, the kwik-ZIP range of spacers is manufactured from its engineered thermoplastic blend, which is characterised by its high resistance to corrosion, even when in contact with organic substrates for long periods of time.

“kwik-ZIP casing spacers will protect pipes, make installation easier and extend the life of your asset, and now with WSAA approval for two product series, choosing the right spacer for longevity and success is even easier,” says Linaker.

The HDXT Series casing spacer can be used for medium to heavy weight pipe materials including steel, ductile iron, GRP, FRP, concrete, PVC and PE. Furthermore, it’s suitable for both pressure and non-pressure pipelines in grouted and un-grouted installations.

The casing spacers utilise a segmented design that enables the system to be used on a variation of carrier pipes from 100 mm OD to 3000 mm OD. Spacers for larger diameter carrier pipes are also available. The spacers are manufactured from

kwik-ZIP’s engineered thermoplastic blend.

The spacers incorporate low friction high abrasion resistant wear pads, attached to load sharing runners. The number of segments required for each spacer is determined by the

outside diameter of the carrier pipe.

Although small relative to the entire pipeline infrastructure, kwik-ZIP spacers make a large difference in the overall success of pipeline installations and corrosion management.

For more information visit www.kwikzip.com

kwik-ZIP’s innovative HDXT series on DN710.

An appropriate spacer system is one simple tool that asset owners can employ as part of their corrosion management system.

Belzona Superwrap II restores strength to 26-metre sewage pipeline

Corrosion is a real threat to the integrity of piping systems. Failure of these system is always detrimental and, in some cases, has catastrophic consequences. Often the replacement of corroded pipework incurs significant costs and is not always a viable option.

When corrosion damage to a 26-metre pipeline caused a sewage leak, the resulting environmental pollution would have been bad enough. However, adding the fact that the leak was spilling straight into a farmer’s field made the need for a rapid, reliable solution more pressing.

For a variety of reasons, the section of pipeline could not be replaced. Other forms of repair would have taken months to undertake, causing significant disruption for local residents and would cost significantly more than the Belzona offered alternative.

The most severely corroded areas of pipe required a plate bonding solution to reinstate strength and provide corrosion protection.

Traditional steel plate bonding solutions were deemed unfeasible, and so the Belzona Superpad was chosen.

Able to be engineered on site, the Belzona Superpad has the lightweight properties of the composite pad, could be formed perfectly to the required size of pipe, and could also be successfully applied by just two technicians.

In order to provide complete protection for the heavily corroded pipes, three layers of Belzona Superwrap II were mixed and applied to the external surface of the pipe. Once applied, the wrapping was coated with Belzona 9382 release film and left to cure overnight,

returning the pipe to functionality with minimum disruption.

That’s a wrap

The Belzona SuperWrap II system, with engineered compliance to ASME PCC-2 & ISO 24817, provides an alternative, cost-effective and long-lasting option compared to conventional alternatives. The system has many application benefits, ensuring a simple and safe application.

It has a range of in-service performance benefits, including outstanding mechanical properties and chemical resistance. Belzona SuperWrap II is suitable for a variety of repairs,

tackling both internal and external corrosion, including through wall defects.

A provider with experience Rezitech Services has been the Australian distributor for Belzona repair composites and protective coatings for over 50 years. Belzona has pioneered solutions against common causes of damage and deterioration to pipelines, valves and fittings including impact and frost damage, corrosion, erosion, and chemical attack.

The range of Belzona solutions for pipework includes:

• Immediate leak sealing, eliminating the need to

The Belzona SuperWrap II system provides an alternative, cost-effective and long-lasting option.

Used as a corrosion mitigation strategy at the design stage, Belzona linings are suitable for deployment in a variety of industries.

The pipe was badly corroded and polluting the surrounding environment.

Belzona composite repair solutions restore strength to corroded, weakened, and holed pipes.

shut lines down

• Permanent pipe repairs using epoxy composites for plate bonding

• Composite pipe wraps, which can be compliant with ISO24817 and ASME PCC2

• Bonding of wear pads and shims on pipelines

• Reforming of corroded or distorted flange faces to restore sealing

• Flexible and peelable protection system for the encapsulation of flanges

• Specialist repair composites which can be applied to oil contaminated, wet, and underwater substrates, or onto hot pipework

• Internal corrosion protection

• Liquid-applied lagging encapsulation coatings

• External corrosion protection including CUI.

Belzona internal pipeline coatings

Belzona’s two-part linings for spools and pipelines are resistant to erosion and a broad range of chemicals. The spin-spray application technique facilitates fast application which, in turn, ensures that application costs are kept to an absolute minimum. These systems offer excellent adhesion, a fast return-to-service and a long-lasting solution.

Used as a corrosion mitigation strategy at the design stage, and for maintenance purposes, Belzona linings are suitable for deployment in industries ranging from in oil and gas, petrochemical, power and utilities, and more.

For more information visit www.rezitech.com.au

Productive equipment

helps you be more efficient on the job. McElroy’s line of fusion machines and accessories has been trusted on the jobsite for over fifty years for that very reason. Finish your job in less time, with the confidence and data that it’s done correctly.

Belzona composite repair solutions restore strength to corroded, weakened, and holed pipes, and offer a long-term alternative to replacement without the associated cost and required downtime.

The Belzona Superpad being cold bonded to the pipe using Belzona 1121 paste grade repair composite.

© 2022 McElroy Manufacturing, Inc. MMI block and PolyHorse are registered trademarks of McElroy Manufacturing, Inc. All rights reserved.

PolyHorse®

Technology identifies corrosion in hard to inspect pipelines

Corrosion poses a significant threat to most pipeline operators in the industry. If not detected, monitored, and mitigated, it creates irreparable damage. ROSEN pursues a holistic approach to pipeline corrosion management that goes far beyond mere inspection.

With one of the largest fleets of highly innovative metal loss detection systems in the industry, combined with first class engineering consultancy and data management competence, ROSEN provides operators with comprehensive support in managing the risk presented by the ubiquitous threat of pipeline corrosion.

Working with pipeline operators worldwide and having first-hand knowledge of the wide variation in the condition of their pipelines, ROSEN Australia Director of Business Execution Daniel Schneke tells The Australian Pipeliner that the company has a big-picture mindset to maintaining asset integrity.

The ROSEN Group has adopted an integrated framework approach for pipeline integrity management. This approach is adaptable not only to each type of threat, but also to each individual pipeline and operator.

It consolidates industry best practice and the most advanced inspection solutions, together with the knowledge of a multi-disciplinary team of subject matter experts distributed around the globe. It is a systematic approach, effective in managing even the most challenging forms of metal loss, fostering a close integrity management partnership where all stakeholders understand the objectives and their role.

“For more than 41 years, the ROSEN Group has delivered inspection and integrity services to pipeline operators around the world. Technology, innovation, and service excellence have made ROSEN the leading pipeline inspection provider with operations in more than 120 countries,” Schneke says.

He says since the introduction of inline inspection tools (ILI) more than 50 years ago, there have always been pipelines that were considered un-piggable. Typically, it is a combination of various circumstances relating to pipeline design, operating conditions, and/or characteristics of the medium that prevents a successful inline inspection using traditional methods.

However, ROSEN refuses to accept this as a fact, and have dedicated an entire diagnostics division to finding ILI solutions for challenging pipelines.

“ROSEN has benefited from partnering with KTN, a Norwegian company that is now part of the ROSEN Group to work closely on further developing a full range of crawler solutions, which do not only have benefit from the broad range of sensor technologies that we can attach to the crawlers, but they also have different propulsion mechanisms for all types of scenarios," he says.

ROSEN offers a portfolio of tethered ILI solutions for the inspection of pipelines that require unconventional inspection techniques. Assets are deemed un-piggable, or difficult-toinspect, due to a combination of challenges typically related to design, operating conditions, and/or characteristics of the medium.

“By utilising tailored solutions equipped with proven technology, many of these valuable assets can be successfully inspected. Information obtained from tethered ILI’s empowers operators to make informed decisions about the integrity

management of their asset,” says Schneke. The tethered in-line inspection technologies enable the collection of high-quality data on the pipeline condition due to the unique features such as:

• Crawler module that can be remotely controlled via tether in both forward and backward motion as well as speed adjustments.

• Precise high-resolution geometry, wall thickness and corrosion measurement with reliable ultrasonic technology (UT wall thickness and crack measurement).

• Time of flight diffraction (TUM-TOFD) measurement module scans girth welds for anomalies such as cracks and sizes them precisely.

• Live tether, which provides unlimited power supply and transmits real-time data back to the operator.

Schneke says a key feature in ROSEN’s

Tethered in-line inspection technologies enable the collection of high-quality data on the pipeline condition.

ROSEN offers a portfolio of tethered ILI solutions for the inspection of pipelines that require unconventional inspection techniques.

technology portfolio is the combination of different sensor technologies in order to get better picture.

“Combining different sensor technologies gives you a great advantage to form conclusive results. For example, UT shear wave technology is frequently used to detect internal and external cracks and provide length sizing of such. TOFD on the other hand gives you a precise depth sizing of cracks, supporting to form a better understanding of defects. This technology works by sending a wideband ultrasonic impulse in a “pitch and catch” arrangement and then measuring the difference in the diffraction signals returning from the crack-like features. By using this method, crack depth and location are quantitatively measured. TOFD technology, however, must be brought to a complete stop in order to perform a full 360-degree scan,” he says.

Determination of whether a pipeline is Fit for Purpose (FFP) requires high quality information on the anomaly types present within the pipeline. The latest 2022 edition of AS 2885.3 reinforces the requirement for operators to understand and quantify the anomaly degradation rates that are occurring in a given pipeline, which in turn are used to determine

inspection and FFP intervals, as well as asset remaining life. ROSEN has the toolbox of high resolution advanced inspection solutions to capture the necessary data to perform advanced engineering assessments, even in the most challenging of pipelines.

To ensure the accurate data collection through ROSEN’s technology, the company puts the crawler trough a performance test prior to mobilisation. This allows the equipment’s calibration and functionality is equipped for any challenges that come its way. In terms of accuracy, each solution has an inspection specification, which is also tested and validated against AP1163 - a standard for ILI solutions.

As this type of technology becomes more available and approaches are more standardised, Schneke says operator are having a bigger sense of urgency and attention to preventing corrosion defects.

The ROSEN team has recently completed a

number of projects in Australia and Papua New Guinea where its self-propelled ILI solution has been deployed.

“In Papua New Guinea, we've done an inspection on a riser section that is attached to a platform, and the client was very interested in identifying corrosion near the splash zone, a high-risk area particularly susceptible to corrosion which is challenging to inspect through external means. We were able to safely inspect the integrity of the asset and provide a detailed report for the client to action a solution.”

ROSEN Group not only provides inspection of assets, but its portfolio offers a variety of services from cleaning and gauging, MFL, Ultrasonic, EMAT and Eddy Current technology, visual inspection, and all aspects of the integrity management cycle, from hazard identification and risk assessment, through to repair plan generation and repair consultancy.

For more information visit www.rosen-group.com/global

"Combining different sensor technologies gives you a great advantage to form conclusive results."

Cortec solutions solve corrosion during hydrotesting

phase corrosion inhibitors. These inhibitors form a molecular protective layer on metal surfaces below and above the water level. VpCI-649 protects both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including copper, steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, and cast iron.

VpCI-649 does not contain nitrites, phosphates, or chromates—a characteristic that helps minimize disposal concerns. It is also available in a molybdate-free version (VpCI-649 MF) for use in regions with molybdate restrictions. VpCI®-649 BD contains an organicdispersing agent, and VpCI-649 Winterized provides protection against product-freezing during storage.

Hydrotesting for long-term or shortterm corrosion protection

This is possible because of the film forming quality of VpCI-649, which leaves behind a corrosion inhibiting layer on the metal surface and typically does not need to be removed before putting the vessel into service.

Hydrotesting examples

Countless applications around the globe have received the benefits of hydrotesting with VpCI649. It is an excellent solution for hydrotesting valves, since the same inhibitor that protects during the hydrotest stage continues to protect difficult-to-reach internal valve surface intricacies against residual moisture.

Pipelines, piping and vessels on wellhead towers, newly manufactured “Christmas trees,” and other oil and gas industry equipment are also common targets for hydrotesting with VpCI-649.

The same water that proves the vessel is not compromised can be the very cause of corrosion that deteriorates the metal and leads to leakage over time. Cortec® provides an excellent answer with the VpCI®-649 Series for hydrotesting.

Corrosion protection for hydrotesting

VpCI-649 is a unique concentrated liquid formulation that combines contact and vapor

When dosing VpCI-649, users must decide how long they want corrosion protection to last and adjust concentration and dwell time accordingly.

Options range from protecting the metal only during hydrotesting to protecting the metal for up to two years after hydrotesting. Extended preservation is often desired when the metal component must either undergo a shipping or storage period before it will be put into use.

In some cases, hydrotesting with VpCI-649 is done specifically for the purpose of mothballing.

VpCI-649 has been used to hydrotest process piping systems in HVAC systems before shipping, and the list goes on. Whatever hydrotesting application clients find themselves in, VpCI-649 is a great answer to solving the irony of corrosion during and after hydrotesting.

Contact Savcor Products Australia to learn how to leverage this valuable, yet easy to-use hydrotest product to fight corrosion.

This product is available through Savcor Products Australia in Australia and New Zealand.

Leaders in corrosion protection provide support on Victorian pipeline

At the forefront of innovative corrosion prevention technology, Denso is focused on developing an extensive range of custom solutions to meet the specific needs of various industries.

Flexible, hardy and reliable

A heavy-duty, sacrificial Abrasion Resistant Outerwrap (ARO), Bore-Wrap is designed specifically for a range of trenchless pipeline installations in difficult ground conditions and severe handling. The product boasts an outstanding track-record for performance against shear, abrasion, impact and gouge and has excellent fracture toughness.

Comprised of two different fibre architecture matts stitched together and impregnated with a water activated resin, Bore-Wrap creates a superior sacrificial outer laminate layer which protects both pre-approved field joint coatings and mainline coatings (such as liquid epoxy coatings, heat shrink sleeves, polymeric and ALVPC coatings along with factory 3LPE, 3LPP and FBE coatings). It protects from damage caused during pipeline installations, in difficult terrain or by trenchless installation methods including horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or boring.

Self-amalgamating and innovative

The Denso Butyl Tape System is designed for the protection of buried or immersed line pipe, joints, welds, bends and fittings. It's also used for repairing damaged areas in factory coated pipes. Denso’s S43 tape provides the corrosion protection to the substrate whilst the R23 tape provides the mechanical protection to the system.

Denso’s S43 tape is a self-amalgamating butyl rubber-based compound which is reinforced by a polyethylene film.

“The inner wrap component of the Denso Butyl Tape System – the S43 – is used in conjunction with the Denso R23 tape which is the outer wrap component of the system,” says Fortune.

Denso Australia has recently had its innovative Bore-Wrap™ and Denso™ Butyl Tape System (S43-R23) products utilised by an internationally recognised contractor on behalf of one of the nation’s largest energy decision makers.

As a subsidiary of Winn & Coales International, the company specialises in the manufacture and supply of corrosion and chemical resistant coatings and linings for the long-term protection of steel, concrete, and timber surfaces in the toughest of corrosive environments.

The two products were used on a high-pressure gas distribution main. The pipeline has been in service for just over 30 years but is now anticipated to have a service life of upwards of 60 years.

Denso’s Business Development Manager Kyle Fortune says that the works undertaken by the contractor utilising Denso’s Bore-Wrap and Butyl Tape System (S43-R23) were localised to a 3 km length of pipe.

The pipe was comprised of steel with trilaminate coating and was 200 mm in diameter and 6.35 WT.

“Bore-Wrap is easily applied in the field. There’s no mixing required, it’s simply saturated with water and wrapped over the existing pipeline coating,” Fortune says.

“Thanks to its flexibility and exceptional level of mechanical protection, Bore-Wrap minimises the need for costly spot repairs or re-pulling pipe from damage – making it an ideal choice for contractors on similar large-scale and integral infrastructure projects.”

The system boasts an excellent resistance to mineral acids as well as alkali and salts. It's nonhardening and non-cracking and is compatible with factory applied pipeline coatings including fusion bonded epoxies, polyethylene, and polypropylene.

Denso’s full range of products are manufactured to comply with strict quality standards and are designed for longevity. Denso is proudly able to provide its customers corrosion prevention solutions which offer over 30 years of maintenance free service – ideal for pipeline projects across Australia’s challenging environment.

A 3LPE yellow jacket pipe with Bore-Wrap application.

3LPE yellow jacket pipe with S43 R23 Butyl Tape System applied.

With more that 25 networking and technical events every year, the APGA events team is committed to providing the best opportuninty for sharing experiences, information exchange and finding out the latest developments in the pipeline and gas industry. Scan for the latest events schedule

Learning from the experts: YPF experiences Northern Goldfields pipeline

The Northern Goldfields Interconnect (NGI) is a DN300 buried pipeline being constructed in Western Australia by APA Group. With a total length of 580 km, construction of the NGI is a massive undertaking. It was the perfect opportunity for members of the APGA’s Young Pipeliners Forum (YPF) to gain first-hand knowledge about pipeline construction and the importance of hard work at all stages of the project process.

A meeting of minds

Trained in petroleum engineering, Myat Noe Khin is a Senior Data Analyst at ROSEN. Her job means that she spends most of her working life behind a computer screen. Earlier in her career, Khin says that the YPF offered a place where she could explore other aspects of the vast landscape that is the pipeline industry.

“I found myself really enjoying the events that I went to as part of working for ROSEN. Not just

the networking, but the technical events and learning experiences as well,” she says. “I like the way we can connect with each other and learn what is happening across the industry.”

Brad Roberts is a Mechanical Engineer at Fyfe and, like Khin, his work is quite distant from the actual construction of a pipeline.

“My workload is roughly 50-50 split between technical and project work, so I’m more involved in the design phase – before the project goes to construction,” he says.

Roberts says that a number of his colleagues at Fyfe were members of the YPF. Joining, for him, began as a way to socialise with similarly minded individuals.

As members of the forum, Khin and Roberts were given the opportunity to visit a number of sites along the in-construction NGI pipeline – an occasion that provided both insight and vision for them, and an understanding of the different stages of delivering a pipeline project.

A deeper understanding

Starting in Geraldton, 50 km west of where the pipeline starts, the YPF members were taken by bus along the pipeline. They would stop at various work sites where the project manager would talk them through the progress and processes of each section.

“It was my first time going on site and seeing the pipeline in construction. It was really eye-opening for me,” says Khin.

YPF members were shown all the activities that go into pipeline construction at the actual source. Witnessing welding, field joint coating, trenching, lowering activity and more.

Khin says that one of the crew members took them through the process of pipeline coating.

“They took us through what they do and exactly why they do it. It was quite detailed information. It’s definitely something that I will remember,” she says.

As an active part of the design process on similar

Members of the Young Pipeliners Forum had the opportunity to visit the APA Group's Northern Goldfields Interconnect to see how the pipeline is being constructed at the ground level.

The NGI is a 580 km pipeline in Western Australia.

pipelines, Roberts says that he appreciated the opportunity to see how his work impacts the actual construction of a project.

“It's good to see some of what I'm used to looking at on a computer screen – just a spreadsheet – translated into something physical and real,” he says.

Overcoming challenges

The remote location of the NGI is only one of the challenges being faced by crews on the pipeline. Workers are housed in camps that are made up of demountable buildings which can be easily moved to be closer to the work as the pipeline grows.

The ground conditions are also immensely variable, meaning crews have to adapt their approach to trenching, from typical open-trench methods to using explosives to break apart large granite formations and hard rock.

Khin says the way crews were overcoming various challenges was a highlight of the experience.

“One site was crossing a main road. They weren’t able to dig a trench through it so they had to do horizontal directional drilling which, obviously, changed how they had to lay the pipe as well,” she says.

In some cases, crews are navigating around assets belonging to local mining and resources projects, as well as working on timelines that are impacted by heavy rains.

Lessons for the future

The opportunity to visit one of the most important pipeline projects in the industry has

equipped members of the YPF with a functional understanding of what is required by works on this scale.

Khin says that the experience will stick with her as she continues to pursue her career in the industry.

Roberts says that witnessing the effort required on the project was one of the most valuable experiences of the trip.

“It makes you think twice about simple things in the design phase. If we want to increase the depth of cover of a pipeline, I now know that that can be a much bigger ask than I originally thought. We can choose to increase the depth, but now I know how that translates into a potentially expensive, time-consuming and difficult task on site. It's good to get that perspective,” he says.

In the future, he says, more interaction between the teams that design a project and the teams that construct it would be valuable.

“It’s definitely impacted the way I go about my work – I’m more considered in how my actions in the office might affect people on the construction side of things. I’m thinking more about how I can make that job easier for them,” says Roberts.

The APGA would like to thank Nacap and APA for working together to enable the YPF tour of the Northern Goldfields Pipeline.

For more information on the Young Pipeliners Forum visit www.apga.org.au/YPF

Members of the YPF had the exciting opportunity to see the pipeline’s construction crews in action.

Attendees were able to have their questions answered by workers on the NGI.

Potential pipeline to supply drought vulunerable communities in Queensland

Heavy rainfalls have eased short-term water supply concerns in rural Queensland, but recent history has shown that regional towns are still vulnerable to drought.

Supplying rural communities

The Toowoomba-Warwick pipeline will be constructed, owned, and operated by utility company Seqwater. Transporting water from the Wivenhoe Dam, it will provide the 3400 residents of Cambooya, Greenmount, Nobby, and Clifton. It will also deliver a contingency water supply in case of drought to a further 24,000 residents across the towns of Warwick, Allora, Yangan, Stanthorpe and Kallarney.

Seqwater is set to connect the 109-km Toowoomba-Warwick Pipeline to the Wivenhoe-Cressbrook Pipeline – existing water infrastructure that belongs to the Toowoomba Regional Council – and connect it with the Warwick Reservoir.

The best option

The Queensland Government’s Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water says that the cost of alternative water transportation is extremely untenable. It estimates that carting water to Warwick would require mobilising around 570 heavy trucks per day, each travelling over 100 km and an annual cost of $48 million.

Aside from the obvious carbon footprint of such an endeavour, the ongoing cost and logistical challenges are not feasible for a town of some 15,000 people.

The Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline is a necessary part of a suite of measures which will help provide sustainable water security to the region.

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio says that having certainty of water supply will give the community confidence as well as assuring the security of small businesses and industry which rely on the councils’ reticulated supplies.

“This is good news for future economic growth of the region’s communities and provides a pathway to prosperity,” says Antonio. “There has been a considerable amount of work which has taken place to get us to this point, and cooperation between the State Government, Southern Downs Regional Council and Toowoomba Regional Council.”

Supported by local and state government

In June 2022, the Queensland Government confirmed over $300 million in funding for the

Toowoomba-Warwick Pipeline project. The Toowoomba Regional and Southern Downs Regional Council both voted in favour of this funding in November 2022.

The positive vote followed on the heels of the announcement of the state government’s $19.34 million investment in the drought resilience package for the Southern Downs region.

Delivered in collaboration with Seqwater, Sunwater, Southern Downs and Toowoomba Regional Councils, the package is aimed at providing reliable, long-term drought contingencies – part of which includes the investigative activities required to establish the Toowoomba-Warwick pipeline. Activities that have already been completed by Seqwater.

According to the Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, the endorsement of both councils indicates the solidification of good job opportunities and better services for the southwest regions.

“We’re thrilled that Toowoomba and Southern Downs have supported this project and — subject to some final negotiations — we are now in a position to meet our commitment to get this project underway and on track for

Despite recent floods, the Southern Downs area is still vulnerable to droughts like those in 2020.

scheduled completion by the end of 2026,” says Butcher. “Construction of this pipeline is critical to providing improved water security for the residents of Southern Downs Regional Council as well as delivering approximately 420 jobs to the Toowoomba and Southern Downs communities during construction.”

A twofold solution

The Toowoomba-Warwick Pipeline will play two major roles in the future of rural Queensland’s water supply. It will both bolster Toowoomba residents’ water supply and provide relief in the case of drought.

The Southern Downs Regional Council has

agreed that will only operate the pipeline during drought, that it will do so in a way that does not negatively impact water security for Toowoomba, and under the understanding that doing so will occur at an affordable cost.

Butcher confirmed that Toowoomba residents can be confident that the pipeline will not impact their existing water supply, while at the same time providing drought resilience to surrounding communities.

Similarly, Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi says the collaboration between two levels of government would deliver significant benefits to Southern Downs communities and welcomed the move to increase the drought resilience of the region.

“When the town of Warwick almost ran out of water, in 2020, it was a stark reminder that the weather is unpredictable and we need to protect ourselves against potential disaster as much as possible,” he says.

“We are most grateful for the continued support from the Queensland Government and our neighbours Toowoomba Regional Council and look forward to ongoing collaboration to see this drought-resilience project come to fruition.”

Seqwater has already delivered detailed designs for the pipeline and is continuing to work with stakeholders in preparing to move into the pre-construction phase of the pipeline, including discussion with landholders.

Once the Queensland Government formalises the commencement stage, Seqwater will be able to set to work to protect the future of climate-vulnerable communities in the sunshine state.

The pipeline is part of the gateway to prosperity for Toowoomba.

Image provided by the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water.

Austrack adds Superior’s latest Crawler Carriers to its fleet

Leading distributor Austrack has solidified its commitment to seeking equipment that will make Australia’s infrastructure projects easier, more cost-effective and time-efficient thanks to Superior’s new range.

When it comes to navigating tight spaces, muddy conditions and steep inclines, there’s simply no safer or more efficient solution than Superior’s latest range of Crawler Carriers just released to the Australian market.

Austrack’s Managing Director, Michael Benson, founded the company in 2011 and has over 26 years of experience within the plant hire industry and on major civil infrastructure projects.

As Australia’s lead distributor for Superior’s latest ST series of Crawler Carriers, Benson says

Austrack is committed to providing ongoing support to ensure its clients get the help they need to put their best foot forward on every project.

that Austrack can now provide clients with some of the most advanced equipment available to help the company tackle extreme terrains.

Benson says no matter the condition or work scope, Superior’s Crawler Carriers are the clear choice when it comes to not only safety but also versatility and efficiency.

“Superior’s new ST220XR, 300X and220X models can be configured to an array of different decks, from dump bed, right through to weld rigs with and without cranes, sandblasting units, personnel transport and 7500 litre water carts,” he says.

Austrack is passionate about providing the construction, mining, and agricultural industries with quality new and used equipment.

“The flexibility of the interchangeable undercarriage from steel track to rubber also provides a massive logistical advantage when accommodating different terrains, whether it be mud and rock, or pavement, soil and steep gradients, these machines can do it all.”

This flexibility is enhanced further thanks to the option to have a one- or two-person cabin to suit the different work scopes and ensure all HSE crew requirements are continually met. Put simply, the back-end engineering and innovative approach that has gone into these new Crawler Carriers is just like the manufacturer’s namesake – superior.

Superior has already made major headway regarding the metro tunnel sector, thanks to the vehicles’ 360° rotation capability. This capability is a solution for restricted tunnel access and provides operators with increased and improved visibility.

Superior’s latest series of Crawler Carriers are one of the only carriers on the market that can

offer the same level of access, productivity, and safety advantages in one vehicle.

“Austrack is pleased it has now added the ST220XR, 300X and 220X to its existing fleet of specialised machinery,” says Benson.

Austrack is passionate about providing the construction, mining, and agricultural industries with quality new and used equipment. With a long-standing history in the construction and mining industries across Australia, Austrack has the experience to serve its clients and ensure it can find the right equipment solutions for all their needs.

“Austrack prides itself on always leading the way by providing its clients with the latest and most innovative machinery solutions available, and as Superior’s leading distributor of Crawler Carriers in Australia, we look forward to the positive impact they will deliver to the construction industry,” Benson says.

With a belief in continually raising the bar higher through great service, effective solutions, and competitive prices, Austrack is committed to providing ongoing support to ensure its clients get the help they need to put their best foot forward on every project.

For more information visit www.austrackequipment.com.au

"Austrack prides itself on always leading the way by providing its clients with the latest and most innovative machinery solutions available, and as Superior’s leading distributor of Crawler Carriers in Australia, we look forward to the positive impact they will deliver to the construction industry."

Pipe Tek completes data logging for the Northern Goldfields Interconnect Project

Equipped with large scale solutions and expert project management, Pipe Tek now offers clients, like contactor NACAP, the full package for their pipeline projects.

Ahard-working pipeline testing firm based in Brisbane, Queensland, Pipe Tek recently completed a data logging project on the Northern Goldfields Interconnect (NGI) on behalf of NACAP. Pipe Tek used an innovative tool direct from the US – Enduro’s Digital Data Logger (DdL) – to collect important information on a section of recently constructed pipeline, verifying welds and identifying any anomalies or corrosion along the alignment to ensure its eventual safe and efficient operation.

The NGI project involves the construction of a new buried pipeline, commencing at Ambania in Western Australia, approximately 50 km east of Geraldton, and finishing at the existing Goldfields Gas Pipeline (GGP), located approximately 40 km south of Leinster. Once completed, the total length of NGI will be 580 km, consisting of 300 mm nominal diameter epoxy-coated high strength steel line pipe.

The Ddl collected data and measured compression along the route of the pipeline and the associated aboveground facilities. The works were localised to a newly constructed 1400 m section of located in Ambania.

Pipe Tek is one of the only companies in Australia that provides a full turnkey solution to its clients. The company’s services include non-destructive testing (NDT), pre-cleaning, gauging, filling, hydrostatic and pneumatic testing, dewatering,

drying with either desiccant or refrigeration dryers, nitrogen purging, caliper pigging, inline inspection (ILI) with dig ups and verification by phase array.

General Manager Taddam Farrant, who was on site for the duration of the data logging, says the team executed the service without a hitch thanks to the use of Enduro’s tool.

“When we received the tool after the run was complete, we were able to confirm it ran at an optimal speed,” he says.

“Sometimes there’s a need for further runs if data isn’t able to be captured totally, but fortunately all data was retrieved on the first pass — which was a fantastic result. Thanks to the efficiency of the first pass, we were able to inform the client that there were no major anomalies within two hours of retrieving the tool which is a really fast turnaround compared to some competitor tools and alternate pigging programs.”

Pipe Tek Managing Director Myles Brannelly, who was also on site for the duration of the data logging, says the company’s partnership with Enduro resulted in the tool arriving in Australia on a short turnaround.

“Fortunately, we were able to assist NACAP by expediting the tool from the US on short notice, and it arrived in Australia within two weeks, calibrated and ready to go,” he says.

The DdL offers both radius point readings and diametrical-cross sectional analysis with multiple

channels provided to offer the ability to log pipeline anomalies in clock positions. The gyro inputs provide the ability to determine bend radii as well as bend directions.

Full of benefits, the technology boasts ultrarugged and versatile capabilities with a Go/No-Go functionality prior to any corrosion survey. The tool is also equipped not only with detection capabilities for dents, precise buckles and wrinkles, but also performs pipeline expansion detection and bend stress analysis.

Another efficiency of the project was Pipe Tek’s knowledge and training for using the tool. The team are capable of operating the DdL themselves, negating the need for overseas technicians to mobilise to site.

In addition, the company also contributed to the efficiency of the project by powering the tool using air instead of water, which would have required the use of water trucks.

“Competitors tools usually need to be run with water which is not easily available in such remote and arid locations,” says Farrant.

“Our solution saved time and the costs associated with transporting water to the area. As the exclusive representative of Enduro Pipeline Services for Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Asia, it was a pleasure to utilise the DdL tool on such an important infrastructure project.”

The NGI will improve flexibility and increase gas supply in the Goldfields region of Western Australian. Once complete, the pipeline will unlock new opportunities to support the growth and operations of local industries such as mining and processing.

The Enduro Ddl tool which was used on the project.

Pipe Tek’s Taddam Farrant handling the tool.

The Vermeer T755 is a cost-effective, productive and efficient alternative for excavating material for utility pipelines.

Entrenching the east coast’s energy future

Australia’s east coast has found itself in the midst of an energy crisis. With soaring energy prices putting increasing pressure on households, businesses and manufacturers, governments are increasingly looking to projects that can ease the pressure for residents and achieve greater energy security into the future.

East coast energy in crisis

New South Wales currently produces just 5 per cent of its daily gas demand, a figure that is forecast to reduce to zero with the planned closure of the Camden Gas Project in 2023.

In July 2022, the Australian Competition and Consumers Commission’s (ACCC) Gas inquiry July 2022 interim report highlighted the direness of the energy crisis, predicting a shortfall of 56 PJ for the east coast in 2023, compared to the 2 PJ shortfall forecast for 2022 at the same time last year.

As it stands, the majority of the gas produced

on Australia’s east coast is produced by companies that are also LNG exporters.

The ACCC report estimates that Australia's east coast will produce 1981 PJ of gas in 2023, 1299 PJ – around 65.5 per cent – of which is forecast to be exported overseas.

It’s clear that the energy crisis is showing no signs of abating – and is in fact slated to worsen – meaning something needs to be done, and fast.

It’s not enough, however, to rely on current supply; and so projects which will provide much needed energy security for the future are being drafted and planned.

The Western Slopes Project

One of the projects currently underway to alleviate the pressure on the New South Wales energy market is the Western Slopes Pipeline Project.

This project is being progressed by APA Group and will see the construction of a 461 km pipeline to connect a new natural gas reserve from Santos’ planned Narrabri Gas Project to the New South Wales gas transmission network, via the Moomba Sydney Pipeline.

Upon completion, the Western Slopes Pipeline will have the capacity to transport up to 200 TJ of natural gas each day; equivalent to

around half of the current daily needs of New South Wales homes, small businesses, major industries and electricity generators.

As with similar large scale pipe projects, a major component of the work will be the digging of the trenches the pipeline will be lowered into. Since this project is set to alleviate a significant problem, time is of the essence, so equipment that can dig these trenches quickly, efficiently and affordably is essential.

Hunter Gas Pipeline

The Hunter Gas Pipeline is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Santos and will be critical in providing energy security for New South Wales. The successful completion of the project will help alleviate pressure on gas and electricity prices for the state’s households, businesses and manufacturers.

Additionally, the project will support electricity generation – as reliance on gas increases with the closure of coal-fired power stations – and firm variable renewables such as wind and solar.

The proposed 833 km pipeline has already been granted planning approval from both the Queensland and New South Wales Governments and, once established, will potentially link the Wallumbilla Gas Supply Hub – a major gas supply hub in Queensland – to New South Wales.

The Wallumbilla Gas Supply Hub already links gas markets in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Through the Hunter Gas Pipeline project a second route to southern markets will be added, enabling increased security and adding competition to the domestic market.

As with the Western Slopes Project, the Hunter Gas Pipeline’s goal is to deliver gas to the east coast domestic market in the shortest time frame possible. This will require efficient, reliable and effective equipment that workers can depend on and trust.

Finding the right equipment for the job

In the past, excavators have been the go-to equipment to create trenches for pipeline installations, however, innovations in technology have shown that these are not always the ideal choice.

Vermeer Australia prides itself on providing the right trencher for a wide range of trenching jobs, whether it’s for power, water, sewer, gas and underdrain installations, cutting through hard

rock, or a variety of other heavy-duty trenching tasks.

Trenchers, like the Vermeer T755, are a costeffective, productive and efficient alternative for excavating material for utility pipelines.

Vermeer’s trenchers have been time- and contractor-tested all over the world in large diameter pipeline installations, including Australia’s gas pipeline environment.

Built hard-nosed to power through everything from soft soils to abrasive rock, the Vermeer family of trenchers have been an asset to the pipeline industry for 50 years, proving themselves time and time again in some of the world’s toughest landscapes.

Vermeer Australia’s General Manager of Sales, Jeff Lawson, says track trenchers make a great addition to a pipeline construction company’s fleet, with increased efficiency helping to meet strict deadlines often stipulated when undertaking pipeline installation projects.

“The pipeline installation market is competitive, so being able to go in and get the job done quickly, efficiently and at the lowest possible price not only increases the chances of winning jobs but also increases capacity to take on more jobs,” says Lawson.

“Trenchers are particularly useful and more

suited to cutting through rocky ground, creating a long, extended run of shallow to medium depth trench.

“Under conditions such as these, a single trencher like the T755 can complete the work of several excavators in a fraction of the time and more efficiently, saving on time and money.”

Although it can be a big commitment to invest in a trencher, the benefits it can provide far outweigh the use of excavators and is well worth the investment for pipeline installation contractors looking to improve project efficiency.

“Contractors will find that their return on investment will occur much faster than expected, often after completing one large project,” says Lawson.

Australia is working fast to mitigate the effects of the east coast energy crisis, with projects progressing that are set to provide energy security for the future. Due to the nature and urgency of these projects, equipment that is reliable, cost-effective and efficient is required.

Vermeer’s products not only fit the criteria, but come backed with more than 50 years of experience, guaranteeing high quality equipment with exceptional customer support and aftermarket service.

Get in contact with your local Vermeer Australia team for your pipeline project needs on 1300 VERMEER or at www.vermeeraustralia.com.au.

The T755 can complete the work of several excavators in a fraction of the time and more efficiently, saving on time and money.

Jemena exemplifies community engagement around Bathurst

The 254 km Young to Lithgow Pipeline is responsible for delivering gas to some of New South Wales’ major population centres. On 2 November 2022, a fault in the pipeline interrupted the gas supply to some 20,000 of Jemena’s customers.

Phil Colvin, Jemena’s Network Operations Manager, talks to The Australian Pipeliner about the complexities of restoring gas supply to its customers, and how the company worked alongside pipeline owner APA Group to achieve this.

He shares how Jemena and APA Group safely and efficiently responded to the outage, from navigating unseasonable weather to coordinating huge numbers of ‘boots on the ground’.

How and when was the issue first detected?

Both Jemena and APA monitor our respective gas distribution and transmission assets 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During ‘Business as Usual’ operations, this enables us to track things like current gas flows, pipeline pressures, and maintenance operations. Our system is designed to alert us when there is an unexpected change in

system performance – such as a decrease in pipeline pressure – as was the case on the evening of Wednesday, 2 November. This was the first sign that an incident had occurred on the pipeline and that supply into Jemena’s gas distribution network had been impacted.

What short term risks were associated with the damage to the pipeline?

During an incident involving gas infrastructure the safety of the community is of prime importance. APA Group was able to quickly mobilise to isolate the gas leak and make the area safe. This was a critical step to be taken before any further work was able to commence.

How was Jemena involved in responding to the incident?

While Jemena does not own or operate the Young

to Lithgow Pipeline, gas transported via the pipeline enters our gas distribution network and, in turn, is used to supply our customers in Bathurst, Lithgow, Wallerawang, and Oberon.

While we worked to support APA’s restoration efforts where we could, we were principally focussed on reconnecting our customers to the gas network as safely and as quickly as possible.

As a first step, this depended on gas being reintroduced into the Young to Lithgow Pipeline and therefore our gas distribution network.

Fortunately, APA was able to reintroduce gas into the portion of the pipeline network servicing Bathurst early on the morning of Thursday, 3 November 2022 – less than a day after the fault was detected. With gas returned to Bathurst, we were able to quickly mobilise to start reconnecting around 13,000 customers across Bathurst.

The reconnection process is quite complex and labour intensive; it involves isolating the affected

Personnel from every state and territory pitched in to help restore gas to the area.

area, personnel visiting each gas connection to conduct make safe activities, purging gas infrastructure of any remaining air, gas being reintroduced into the system, and finally customers having their gas supply re-lit.

How did you manage the day-to-day operations?

This was a complex operation involving personnel from multiple businesses, as well as significant interest from the community, government, emergency services, media and of course our customers.

Both Jemena and APA were required to manage a number of elements concurrently –from developing and implementing an operational response, to being on the front foot with communications to keep our customers up to date. To do this, both APA and Jemena stood up our emergency management frameworks to help coordinate our responses internally and across our organisations. Each day a meeting of key personnel across the business was held to develop a shared understanding of the current status of the situation, discuss the plan for the day,

"Both APA and Jemena stood up our emergency management frameworks to help coordinate our responses internally and across our organisations."

Reconnecting gas for customers is a complex, labour-intensive exercise.

and identify any risks or concerns. We had a number of other working groups – such as our Crisis Communications Team – who provided coordination around a specific element of the outage.

What challenges were involved in restoring gas supply to the area? We knew early on that restoring customer gas

connections was likely to take a number of weeks, and we were very transparent with setting expectations accordingly, endeavouring to let our customers and the community know that their gas services would likely not be restored until around the start of December.

While we were communicating with our customers, APA was exploring a range of options around how best to restore gas supplies to the area as quickly and safely as possible. Ultimately, APA implemented two temporary solutions to bring gas back to the area promptly.

The first of these was an LNG tanker connected at Wallerawang, while the second was a temporary pipeline fix.

These solutions came on sooner than expected so, with the support of the community, we were able to restore customers much earlier than expected, with the last of our customers being reconnected during the week commencing 14 November 2022.

In addition to these operational hurdles, we faced numerous challenges. While we have a workforce of about 15 people in the region, we knew that, given the sheer size and scale of the event, we would need to quickly mobilise a significant workforce. This came with its own logistical challenges, requiring a team dedicated to keeping our people fed, housed, transported, and rested.

Finally, the unseasonably cold weather meant that, when the temporary LNG tanker was installed, we needed to ask our customers to moderate their gas use in order to ensure gas

supply and pressure remained adequate. The community really responded here. They stepped up to the challenge by quickly moderating their use until the temporary pipeline solution was brought online.

How was Jemena able to get the support of over 40 contractors so quickly?

This was a key challenge we recognised early on. Simple math told us that, to reconnect over 20,000 customers, we would need to significantly increase our “boots on the ground”. To do this we mobilised crews from across our business, who travelled into the region to assist with reconnection efforts.

I am really proud to say that this was a genuine community and industry response. In addition to our own crew, we were also assisted by APA and other parts of our industry, with personnel coming from literally every state and territory in the country to assist with the reconnection effort.

Key to our success was the response from the community. Local emergency services offered their own personnel to give us much greater bench-strength. It’s no exaggeration to say that, without this additional peoplepower, our reconnection efforts would have been a lot slower. Thanks to their support we were able to reconnect approximately 20,000 customers extremely quickly once gas was restored – one week for Bathurst and just under a week for Oberon, Lithgow, and Wallerawang.

APA responded quickly, enabling Jemena to connect gas for customers in Bathurst early on.

Without extra people-power, Jemena’s reconnection efforts would have taken far longer.

What has Jemena learned from the Young Lithgow Pipeline incident?

While there are many lessons to be gleamed from our recent experiences a couple of things stand-out:

1. The role of the community – Our communities are resilient and able to support restoration efforts where they can, the key is to connect with the people at a grassroots level. The support of local councils, emergency services, and other welfare support services proved pivotal. It’s also important not to underestimate the power of old-fashioned modes of communicating. While many of our customers were receiving updates through social media, things like doorknocking were crucial in reaching all of our customers –particularly the elderly and other people who may not be connected online.

2. Communicate regularly – Even if it’s just simple updates or repeating information you have previously shared, what may seem like a stale or dry message may not have been received by all of your customers.

3. Maintain your values and principles – In the midst of things it’s easy to lose sight of those things which matter most, like safety. Make a point of focussing on these things regularly, for instance each day at the start of our

Emergency Management Team meeting we would hold a safety spot – just by taking a moment to reflect on the importance of operating safely we were able to keep this value front and centre.

For more information visit www.jemena.com.au, or www.apa.com.au

Community engagement was crucial.

STATS commissioned for significant subsea project

other subsea intervention projects of this complexity or scale that involve subsea isolations on pipelines of 56-inches in diameter,” says Gault.

“We have made a significant product development investment with three new largediameter hot tapping machines and the associated isolation assets capable of handling this unique work scope. Relatedly, we are delighted to have increased our BISEP DNV Type Approval status up to 56-inch.”

This is a landmark project for the pipeline technology specialist and is set to reinforce the company’s credentials for providing innovative subsea hot tapping and high integrity isolation solutions which can address diverse and technical challenges.

STATS Group is set to undertake pipeline isolation, hot tapping and plugging services on a Middle East subsea intervention project after being tapped by UAEheadquartered oil and gas EPC contractor National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC) — a subsidiary of National Marine Dredging Company (NMDC Group) — on behalf of a National Operating Company.

The project is the result of STATS Group’s long-term commitment to support localisation in the Gulf region. The company employs more than 80 people and has facilities in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Muscat, Oman, and Doha, Qatar.

Over the years, STATS Group has gained an excellent reputation for providing a responsive, client-centred approach combined with expertise and innovative products which enhance safety and environmental performance, reduce system or plant downtime, improve asset performance, and support the industry transition to a low carbon future.

The scope of work will include the hot tapping and double block and bleed isolation of multiple pipelines with diameters ranging from 42-inches up to 56-inches in the Middle East region, using STATS SureTap® hot tapping machines and its patented BISEP® technology.

“As

“Our strategy of putting in the hard yards in terms of investing in our asset base in the Middle East and in employing and training locally based staff has put us in a strong position to expand further in the region,” he says.

“We are continuing to recruit more staff, not only to support this exciting project with NPCC but also in response to a broader increase in regional project work following the uncertainties

Mark Gault, STATS Group’s General Manager in the Middle East, says that the company believes the project to be among the first in the world of its calibre.

far as we are aware, there have been no

Pipeline technology specialist STATS Group has been contracted to provide specialist services to one of the world’s largest diameter subsea pipeline intervention projects.

56-inch Subsea BISEP.

48-inch SureTap and BISEP deployment.

of Covid-related lockdowns.”

Yasser Zaghloul, NMDC Group’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) says that the company is committed to developing robust and secure infrastructure in the engineering, procurement, and construction sector. This, says Zaghloul, will benefit not only the company and its stakeholders but the industry as a whole.

“We will continue to invest in new critical infrastructure projects, leveraging our

rejuvenated skills to meet our clients' needs, and we look forward to broadening our level of collaboration with key industry players like STATS Group to further solidify our position as the EPC major of choice for global NOCs,” says Zaghloul.

Significant investment by STATS Group has likewise extended its range of hot tapping machines, which can now cater for up to 60inch diameter cuts. In addition, the company

has also extended its DNV Type Approval on its BISEP and Tecno Plug® isolation technologies, up to 56-inches in size.

The UK-headquartered company has a long track record of successful isolation and intervention projects in the Middle East using its BISEP double block and bleed technology, which is well established by many of the international and national oil and gas operators in region.

For more information visit www.statsgroup.com

Subsea valve skid deployment.

48-inch subsea BISEP deployment.

SureTap – 48-inch subsea hot Tapping in the Middle East.

Pro Pipe Services’ growth invites collaboration

December 2022 marks five years since Pro Pipe Services was established. In that short period of time, the Australianowned company has become one of the nation’s leading and biggest providers of hot tapping and line isolation services in the pipeline industry.

Growth with purpose

The company has continued to see exceptional growth in the market. Pro Pipe now has eight technicians based in its Melbourne service centre, servicing the entire country.

“We anticipate that we will be adding additional head count in 2023 to meet the demand,” says Director and owner Joe Buttigieg.

Having local technicians based in Australia allows Pro Pipe to provide services with a quick turnaround, providing customers with solutions in a shorter period of time.

“Our highly skilled and professional technicians provide the necessary skills to operate our equipment on high pressure pipelines, so that customers can be comfortable in the knowledge that the job will be completed efficiently and with the utmost attention to safety standards,” says Buttigieg.

Proof in action

Recently, Pro Pipe was contracted to provide service technicians and equipment to execute the second stage of a major pipeline alteration in one of Australia’s major capital cities, following success in completing the first stage in August 2022.

The project involved Pro Pipe isolating a 22inch (DN550) high pressure transmission pipeline with a 12-inch (DN300) bypass to maintain flow while still allowing the modification of the existing pipeline for a major road project.

The project had some challenges associated with it, with it being located between a major arterial road, a railway line and an airport. The logistics for navigating the project were tough. However, with the professional civil contractors on site, working with the Pro Pipe team, the hot tapping and line isolation, modification and tie in were all completed within seven days, efficiently and safely.

Industry cooperation at its best

Australian pipeline operators can now count on Pro Pipe to deliver intervention, and isolation products and services, as a T.D. Williamson (TDW) channel partner.

The collaboration brings together the field

As one of the leading providers of smart solutions to the pipeline industry, Pro Pipe Services is looking to the future by growing and collaborating to deliver the best services on jobs of any size.

Pro Pipe provided service technicians and equipment to a major pipeline alteration.

expertise and technical innovation of TDW with Pro Pipe’s global boots-on-the-ground experience. TDW sees Pro Pipe as an excellent fit for their channel partner program, which provides industryleading support for customers on a local level.

“T.D. Williamson and Pro Pipe Services are excited to partner with each other and look forward to working together to provide pipeline solutions in Australia and the APAC region,” says Buttigieg.

With over 100 years of combined service in the pipeline industry, Pro Pipe continues to deliver hot tapping, line isolation, commissioning, decommissioning and pipeline services to the gas distribution and transmission pipeline industry, as well as water, and industrial sectors throughout Australia.

To complement Pro Pipe’s hot tapping and line isolation services, the company also provides pipeline equipment maintenance and repairs on all brands of hot tap and line isolation equipment, WASK Bagtube, and pipeline equipment.

“For all hot tapping, line isolation and pipeline services, Pro Pipe Services is the best in the business,” says Buttigieg.

Pro Pipe’s experience is now augmented with TD field expertise and technical innovation.

McElroy’s TracStar® iSeries saving operators time and money

In the field, time is money, and downtime caused by machine problems can mean thousands of dollars in unnecessary costs. McElroy continues to pave the way for pipe fusion with remote diagnostic capabilities for its line of fusion machines, bringing expert support to operators in real time.

The TracStar® iSeries is a game-changer in the world of pipe fusion. It maintains the TracStar's rugged, selfcontained tracked vehicle while adding industrychanging technology. The TracStar 630i, 900i, and 1200i cover HDPE sizes from 8-inch IPS to 48-inch OD (225 mm – 1200 mm) and can provide more than 3,000 psi for more powerful ground drive, pipe lifts, and other functions that require higher levels of pressure.

And now, when fusing with the TracStar iSeries, operators have the capability to work directly with McElroy tech support whenever there is a problem with the machine.

Real help in real time

When reaching out for technical support using traditional methods, operators can often feel like they’re playing a game of ‘telephone.’

Their call may go on to an operator, who reaches out to the distributor, who then might need to escalate the call to McElroy. From there,

operators are asked to take photos or videos of the machine as it works, to illustrate the problem. If the issue can’t be resolved that way, a technician could need to travel to the job site to address it in person, or the machine could need to be taken somewhere to be fixed.

When considering the distance between McElroy’s technicians in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and operators on job sites in Australia, this means a lot of time spent waiting for answers. Even within Australia, some job locations are so remote that travel time to service locations can be hours – or even days.

McElroy’s new remote diagnostic capability gives operators the ability to directly report problems to McElroy experts during the fusion process. Support staff can then seek permission from the operator to remotely connect with the machine and observe its processes.

Across town –

or

around the world

If an operator or contractor is encountering a

problem with their TracStar iSeries, McElroy technicians can use a hotspot to connect directly to the machine remotely, accessing the machine’s full CAN traffic. By essentially ‘seeing what the fusion machine sees,’ tech support can then provide help more quickly.

In many cases, problems encountered during the fusion process aren’t always due to an issue with the machine itself; it could be operator error or another issue unrelated to the machine. Being able to watch the fusion as it happens can allow technical support to quickly point out these issues and get the fusion process up and running again.

For job sites that are rural or otherwise isolated, this ability to remotely access the fusion machine can mean hours – even days – saved in terms of time in the field.

A focus on fusion

McElroy’s DataLogger® is a staple of the fusion industry, allowing contractors and operators to

McElroy Manufacturers’ TracStar® 900i.

capture, store, and share fusion data. Existing diagnostic processes use the DataLogger; making it even more of an integral part to McElroy’s fusion lineup and the fusion process as a whole.

Fusion data recorded by the DataLogger is stored within the Vault™, McElroy’s powerful cloud-based storage platform. With permission, McElroy support staff can view Vault data from individual machines or operators.

McElroy’s next planned major update for the DataLogger will broaden the abilities of remote diagnostics, capturing all CAN traffic of the machine during the fusion process. That traffic can then be retroactively viewed for troubleshooting purposes.

This new release will let McElroy tech services view CAN traffic that was captured when the operator first noticed an issue. If, and when, an operator reports a problem, support staff only need the user’s Vault account details and the date and time the problem was encountered. They can then view all the information processed through the machine in real time. But even real time isn’t necessary. In situations

where time zones come into play, that data can be provided to a technician hours later, giving the technician insight into the entire process and where the problem might be.

All these features are optional – if operators don’t wish to share fusion data during the process, they can opt out through the DataLogger’s settings.

Promoting plastic pipe

As polyethylene and polypropylene piping systems continue to grow in scope and popularity, ensuring that fusion joints are consistently documented for quality is critical to its success.

For that reason, the DataLogger is one of the things that sets the plastic pipe industry apart from traditional pipe materials like iron or steel. The quality control set in place and the information and process control available before or during the installation process gives plastic

pipe an enormous advantage compared to other materials. As the demand for quality control grows, so too do the ways McElroy offers contractors and operators the best and most reliable in equipment and service.

For more information visit www.mcelroy.com/en/fusion

McElroy Manufacturers’ DataLogger® is a staple of the fusion industry.

Gearing up for another APGA Convention & Exhibition

The 55th Annual Convention & Exhibition of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) will be held in Perth, Western Australia from October 14 to October 17, 2023, and will cover a range of issues in the theme: Power of the Present, Force of the Future.

APGA’s Annual Convention brings together participants from all sectors of the pipeline industry as well as other industries associated with natural gas and the transportation of energy, slurry and water. This major annual industry event provides a wealth of information in the business sessions, and the social events allow for extensive networking opportunities.

Core to the convention is the sharing of ideas and learning. The 2023 convention is geared towards knowledge transfer and will feature a detailed business session program. With industry representation from around the world, the business sessions provide an opportunity to

connect with a large audience and disseminate learnings across a broad sector.

The business sessions will include papers covering pipeline operations, project updates, training, research, environmental challenges and safety issues. Issues surrounding gas policy and gas markets are increasingly topical, generating much interest and debate about the role of the transmission sector and the challenges of gas supply for the domestic market.

Call for Papers

This Call for Papers includes a request for presentations covering major (or smaller) projects, opportunities and developments in

the industry. Presentation topics can include, but are not restricted to: new and emerging technologies | natural gas and energy policies | gas markets | international developments | construction challenges | coal seam gas | water and slurry/waste | transportation | research | regulatory developments | health and safety | training and skills development | operational and maintenance issues | environmental issues | technical regulation

The APGA Annual Convention is an opportunity to present forward-thinking and practical ideas that stimulate discussion and debate and give guidance to the industry as it prepares for the future.

Caption.

The publication covers everything from upstream gas exploration and facilities, to construction and maintenance of hydrocarbon transmission pipelines and water pipelines. With mature readership lists developed over several decades, excellent brand recognition in the industry and a strong reputation for producing high-quality original content, The Australian Pipeliner has unparalleled access to key decision-makers in the upstream and midstream sectors.

the beaten track

2023 APGA Event Schedule

DATE

FUNCTION

LOCATION

Wed 8 Feb WA Golf/Dinner Perth @ Hartfield Golf Course

Thu 16 Feb Brisbane Networking Evening Brisbane @ The Charming Squire

Wed 1 Mar POG Meeting Melbourne @ Crown Events & Conferences

Wed 1 Mar

First Time Leaders Melbourne @ Crown Events & Conferences

Thu 2 Mar POG Seminar Melbourne @ Crown Events & Conferences

Thu 2 Mar First Time Leaders Melbourne @ Crown Events & Conferences

Thu 2 Mar Melbourne Drinks Melbourne @ Crown Events & Conferences

Thu 8 Mar NZ Seminar, Golf and Dinner New Plymouth Golf Club

Wed 15 Mar AWLDP Cohort 6 Adelaide @ Electra House

Thu 16 Mar AWLDP Cohort 6 Adelaide @ Electra House

Thu 16 Mar Adelaide Networking Evening Adelaide @ Electra House

Wed 22 Mar HSE Seminar (APGA/IPIOCA) Melbourne

Thu 27 April Perth Networking Evening Perth @ Bells Functions

Thu 25 May Brisbane Golf Day Brisbane

Thu 25 May Brisbane Dinner Brisbane

Thu 8 June Darwin Dinner Darwin @ Wharf One

Thu 22 June Melbourne Dinner Melbourne @ Hyatt

Thu 20 July Perth Lunch Perth @ Fraser's Kings Park

Wed 26 July AWLDP Cohort 7 Sydney @ Grace Hotel

Thu 27 July AWLDP Cohort 7 Sydney @ Grace Hotel

Thu 27 July Future Fuels CRC Seminar Sydney @ Grace Hotel

Thu 27 July Sydney Dinner Sydney @ Grace Hotel

Wed 2 Aug AWLDP Cohort 6 Brisbane @ Bisou Bisou

Thu 3 Aug AWLDP Cohort 6 Brisbane @ Bisou Bisou

Thu 3 Aug Brisbane Dinner Brisbane @ Black Bird

Wed 23 Aug

Thu 24 Aug

First Time Leaders Adelaide

First Time Leaders Adelaide

Thu 24 Aug Adelaide Dinner Adelaide

14-17 Oct

APGA Convention and Annual General Meeting Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre AGIT Gas Speak 2023

Tues 28 Nov AWLDP Cohort 7 Sydney

Wed 29 Nov AWLDP Cohort 7 Sydney

Wed 29 Nov Sydney Christmas Networking Sydney

Fri 1 Dec Melbourne Christmas Lunch Melbourne

Fri 8 Dec Perth Christmas Lunch Perth @ Double Tree

Wed 13 Dec Adelaide Christmas Lunch Adelaide

Fri 15 Dec Brisbane Christmas Lunch Brisbane

Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Membership

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR

Alltype Engineering

Directhitt Pty Ltd

Enscope Pty Ltd

Global Engineering & Construction Pty Ltd

HH Civil Pty Ltd

Maxibor Australia

Michels Corporation

Mitchell Water Australia Pty Ltd

Moody Civil & Pipe Pty Ltd

National Australian Pipelines P and G Welding Pty Ltd

Pipecraft Pipeline Plant Hire Pty Ltd

Service Stream

The Newham Group Valmec Limited

CONSULTANT

ACIL Allen Consulting

Australasian Corrosion Consultants Pty Ltd

CNC Project Management

DNV GL Australia Pty Limited

dss+

Energy Matrix Group Pty Ltd

EnergyQuest Pty Ltd

Jiva Consulting

JLL Infrastructure Advisory Pty Ltd

Kleinfelder Australia Pty Ltd

Land Access & Management Services Pty Ltd

MVC Services Pty Ltd

OC Project Services Pty Ltd

Pipeline Engineering Consultants Plant & Platform Consultants Ltd

Powered Sage Consulting Solutions Pty Ltd Sustech Engineering Pty Ltd Twycross and Partners Pty Ltd Veris

ENERGY DISTRIBUTOR

ATCO Gas Australia

ENGINEERING/PROJECT MANAGER

A J Stack Solutions Pty Ltd

AFS Projects

Atteris Pty Ltd

Bamser Holdings Pty Ltd

Core Group Limited

Fyfe GHD Pty Ltd

GPA Engineering Pty Ltd

ITP Interpipe Lidiar Group

Long Energy and Resources Pty Ltd

Momentum Engineering

Pipeline Drillers Group

SPIE Plexal

GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS/ REGULATORS

Department for Energy and Mining

Department of Planning and Environment NSW

Energy Safe Victoria

Resources Safety and Health Queensland Water Corporation

INDUSTRY

ASSOCIATION

Pipeline Research Council International, Inc

PIPELINE OWNER/OPERATOR

Ampol Australia Petroleum Pty Ltd

Arrow Energy Pty Ltd

AusNet Services

Australian Energy Market Operator

Beach Energy Limited

Brookfield Infrastructure Group Esperance Pipeline Company

First Gas Ltd

Fortescue Future Industries Pty Ltd

GB Energy Mobil New Zealand Oil Limited

Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd

Origin Energy Limited Power and Water Corporation Qenos Pty Ltd Refining NZ Santos

South Australian Water Corporation

Tas Gas Holdings Pty Ltd Vector Limited Viva Energy Australia Ltd WestSide Corporation Woodside Energy Ltd

SERVICE PROVIDER

ALS Industrial Pty Ltd

Atlas Copco Rental Oceania Avmin Pty Ltd

AXS Pty Ltd

Baker Hughes Brooks Hire Service Pty Ltd

Brownline Australia Pty Ltd

Bureau Veritas Asset Integrity and Reliability Services Pty Ltd

Civil Geospatial Services Pty Ltd

Corrosion Control Engineering (Holdings) Pty Limited

Deaton Enterprises Pty Ltd trading as CST Hire

Downer EDI Engineering Power Pty Ltd

DSQ Pty Ltd

ERIAS Group Pty Ltd

IntelliGas

ITI International

LandPartners Pty Ltd

Lochard Energy (Iona Operations) Pty Ltd

Locusview Ltd

Metropolis Services Pty Ltd

Mipela GeoSolutions

NDT Global Pty Ltd

Oceaneering Australia Pty Limited

ORIX Commercial

Peter Norman Personnel Pty Ltd

Picarro, Inc

Pipe Tek Pty Ltd

Piping Specialty Supply Service Pty Ltd

Prime Creative Media

Pro Pipe Services Pty Ltd

Project Communications Australia

QIC Protective Coatings (Aust) Pty Ltd

Qube Energy Pty Ltd

Red Rock Oilfield Service

ROSEN Australia Pty Ltd Scape Consulting Pty Ltd

STATS Group

T D Williamson Australia Pty Ltd

TFG Group Pty Ltd

Turbo Systems Australia Pty Ltd

Viega Pty Ltd

Wasco Energy Group WRAP Resources Australia Zinfra

SUPPLIER OF EQUIPMENT

OR MATERIALS

Aegis Pty Ltd

Anode Engineering Pty Ltd

Anti Corrosion Technology Pty Ltd

Aquip Systems

AtlasGas Pty Ltd

Austrack Equipment Sales and Rentals

Australian Pipeline Valve

Bao Australia Pty Ltd

CRC-Evans Pipeline International Delnorth Pty Ltd

Denso (Australia) Pty Ltd

EagleBurgmann Australasia Pty Ltd

EDMI Gas Pty Ltd

Fast Fusion, LLC Gasco Pty Ltd

GF Piping Systems

Heath Pipeline Services Pty Ltd Herrenknecht AG

Horizon Industrial Pty Ltd Inductabend Pty Ltd

iPipe Services

Iplex Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd Jindal Saw Limited LFF Australia

Lincoln Electric Company (Australia) Pty Ltd Man Industries India Ltd McElroy Australia Ozzies, Inc.

PAC

Pipeline Equipment Rentals

Pipeline Machinery International LP PipeServ

PSAH Pty Ltd

RAEDLINGER PRIMUS LINE PTY LTD

RazValve Pacific

RDO Equipment Pty Ltd

Richmond

RTi Asia Pacific PTY LTD

Savcor Products Australia Pty Ltd

Scapeworks Australia Shawcor Pty Ltd

Shipman King

SICK Pty Ltd

System Control Engineering Tapex Industrial

TIB Chemicals AG

TRACTO-TECHNIK Australia Pty Ltd

Tremco Pipeline Equipment Pty Ltd

Universal Corrosion Coatings Pty Ltd

Vacuworx Australia

Vinidex Pty Ltd

Vlentec Australia Pty Ltd

Welspun Corp Limited

Western Process Controls

Worldpoly Pty Ltd

Worldwide Group Future Fuels CRC

LEAD MEMBERS

Australian Portable Camps - Frank Martino

APGA would particularly like to acknowledge the generous support of its Owner Members

• APA Group

• Australian Gas Infrastructure Group

• Epic Energ y SA Pty Ltd

• Jemena

• SEA Gas

• Tasmanian Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd

APGA would also like to acknowledge the strong support of its Lead Members

•

• AGL Energy Limited

• Australian Portable Camps

• Esso Australia Pty Ltd

• McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd

• MPC Kinetic

• Nacap Pty Ltd

Honorary Life Members

• Ken Barker

• David Curry

• Keith Fitzgerald*

• D C Gore*

• Robert Gration

• Max Kimber

Individual Members

• Dean Barker

• John Blain

• Bevan Boocock

• Grant Bowley

• Stephen Callaghan

• Ken Cameron

• Chris Carter

• Mark Cooper

• Geoff Cope

• Andy Lukas

• Tony Marletta

• Mick McCormack

• Stuart McDonald

• Jim McDonald*

• Allan Newham

QGC

• Quanta Services Australia Pty Ltd

• Solar Turbines Australia

• Spiecapag Australia Pty Ltd

• Verbrec Ltd (ASX: VBR)

• Worley Services Pty Ltd

• Chris Harvey

• Stephen Ohl

• Mark Twycross

• Phil Venton *deceased

• Ted Metcalfe

• John de Robillard

• Stephen Dykes

• JP Fortin

• Gretchen Gagel

• Chris Gatehouse

• Lynndon Harnell

• Mark Harris

Employee Members

• Eric Bardy

• Geoff Barton

• Lauren Beynon

• Rick Boreham

• Andrew Bourke

• Liz Brierley

• Peter Bucki

• Mark Bumpstead

• Francis Carroll

• Philip Colvin

• Jeff Cooke

• Craig de Laine

• Edwin De Prinse

• Yuyu Fang

• Daniel Faulkner

• Matt Felvus

• Sean Fleming

• Nick Flint

• Tom Forde

• Mark Fothergill

• Paul Frederick

• Tom Fuller

• Jarrod Gilby

• Calvin Gordon

• Peter Hanily

• Peter Harcus

• Geoff Harrison

• Chris Hewson

• Graeme Hogarth

• Justine Hyams

• Jeff Jones

• Ashley Kellett

• Steven Liddell

• Cameron MacDiarmid

• John Millett

• Mick Murphy

• Trevor Nichols

• John Piper

• David Pollock

• Brett Reay

• Shaun Smith

• Ian Spence

• Jasper Tieland

• Andrew Wood

• Ian Israelsohn

• Linda Johnson

• Hugo Kuhn

• Trent Leach

• Stephen Livens

• Nicole Lowndes

• Paul May

• John Messent

• Stephen Mudge

• Matthew O'Connell

• Brian O'Sullivan

• Neil Parry

• Tawake Rakai

• Ben Rees

• Darren Rogers

• Josh Row

• Craig Sheather

• James Smith

• Colin Symonds

• Soheil Taherian

• Warwick Tidswell

• Andrew Tsitas

• John Walsh

• Sean Ward

• Louise Watson

• Rob Wheals

• Paul Williamson

• Rob Wiltshire

• Michael Xanthopoulos

People on the Move

In this new and regular column, The Australian Pipeliner is tracking new appointments in Australia, New Zealand, Papuan New Guinea and the Pacific’s pipeline sector.

ANDREW FALVO – VERMEER

PHIL MICALLEF – KWIK-ZIP

Falvo is fascinated with the constantly evolving technologies in the industry and is looking forward to moving into the capital equipment space.

With experience working with contractors in the pipeline industry, Falvo wants to continue developing strong partnerships with Vermeer Australia’s customers and furthering the company’s strong reputation for providing reliable equipment and after-sales support in the form of spare parts, technical information and its service network.

“What matters for me is simply ensuring that operators have the right tools to get the job done, and offering support to see it happen,” Falvo says.

In his new role, Andrew will be managing trenching equipment, directional drills, vacuum excavators and more to support the utilities and pipeline industries.

PAUL MCKAY –PIPING SOLUTIONS

Paul McKay has joined the Piping Solutions team as its new HSE Manager. With almost two decades of safety experience across a range of industries, Paul’s previous role was within the oil and gas industry granting him direct dealings with energy heavyweights QGC/Shell, Santos and BHP.

Paul was drawn to Piping Solutions by the company’s unwavering passion and commitment to safety. Coming from a trade background, mixing safety and technical knowledge has always gone hand-in-hand.

“The leadership team understands the importance of safety and I saw my potential role as an opportunity to help contribute to and shape the next phase of the company’s growth,” he says.

“I’m looking forward to challenging myself and continuing to challenge those around me into thinking that safety isn’t a hurdle, but a bridge built by all to get across difficulties safely and to ensure that we can all return home over the bridge we built together.”

kwik-ZIP has announced Phil Micallef has joined the team as a Business Development Manager. Micallef brings with him 14 years of experience and skills in geosynthetics in the construction and civil sectors, benefitting his ability to succeed in his new role at the company.

“During my time in the civil industry, I noticed that the trenchless sector was rapidly evolving which sparked my interest and am excited to have a chance be a part of this growing sector,” says Micallef.

His role with kwik-ZIP will involve providing full cycle business development activities. This includes market research, strategic market development and building deep customer relationships within the industry.

Micallef is looking forward to becoming a trusted advisor for kwikZIP customers by continuing to develop solutions and creating strong customer relationships within the trenchless and civil industry.

MICHAEL HODNETT – PSSS

Michael Hodnett has joined the PSSS team as the Business Development Manager (BDM) for Western Australia. He brings with him a strong history of providing effective solutions to clients and found himself drawn to the PSSS philosophy –“Yes we can.”

“Being based in WA and being able to service the entire state, provides me with a pretty large canvas to work with,” says Hodnett.

“While PSSS has been servicing clients in WA for many years, there hasn’t been the focus of WA based BDM for an extended period of time,” he says.

He says that the main focus of his new role will be to extend PSSS ability to service its existing WA clients, and extending those services to new clients who can benefit from the company’s store of critical stock.

Hodnett is working to build up PSSS’s supplies further in its Jandakotbased WA warehouse.

If your company has recently employed a new person within your business you would like profiled in ‘People on the Move’, send details of the career news alongside a high-res photo to Journalist Jenna May at jenna.may@primecreative.com.au

Andrew Falvo is stepping into a new role with Vermeer Australia as Area Manager for Construction in northern New South Wales.