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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.
Safe, Reliable Pipeline Solutions
•Hot Tapping
•Line Isolation & Bypass
•Pipe Cutting
•Commissioning
•Decommissioning
•Equipment Maintenance
•Training
President’s message
It is my great privilege to welcome you to the rst edition of e Australian Pipeliner for 2025, marking my second year as President of APGA – a role I am deeply honoured to hold.
Throughout my career in the pipeline industry, I have come to fully appreciate the critical role Australia’s pipeline network plays in powering the nation’s infrastructure and economy. In a country of vast distances and diverse landscapes, pipelines are not just infrastructure – they are lifelines, connecting resources, communities, and industries across the continent. The Australian Pipeliner continues to be an essential platform for sharing the latest developments, technological innovations, and the challenges facing the dedicated professionals who ensure our industry’s success and reliability.
Our sector remains pivotal in transporting vital resources like water, oil, and natural gas. At the same time, the ongoing upgrading and maintenance of pipeline networks not only enhances the efficiency of resource movement but also drives economic growth and sustainability. As we step into 2025, we see a continued focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, both of which are shaping the future of pipeline infrastructure. This edition highlights key areas such as PE pipe, corrosion, and pipeline construction –where cutting-edge technology and engineering breakthroughs are driving the evolution of more efficient and eco-friendly pipeline systems. These advances reflect our shared commitment to building a sustainable future for all.
This issue also shines a spotlight on New South Wales, featuring major projects such as Jemena’s recently completed Port Kembla lateral looping pipeline and APA’s Kurri Kurri lateral gas transmission and Storage Pipeline, which is now connected to the final stages of the Hunter power project. Many of you are no doubt involved in these landmark projects, making it the perfect time to highlight them in the first edition of the year.
For those who joined us at the 2024 Convention in Adelaide, I trust your experience was as rewarding as mine. It was inspiring to see an increasing number of young professionals taking part, signalling a dynamic shift in the demographic of our delegates. The Secretariat is dedicated to nurturing this enthusiasm, creating greater opportunities for involvement in committees and activities, and strengthening the foundation for the next generation of pipeliners.
Looking ahead, the APGA Board remains focused on implementing the association’s strategic plan through 2027, with a vision of creating more opportunities for our members while maintaining our critical role in the energy future of Australia.
I look forward to connecting with you at one of the many exciting events we have planned for 2025.
JOHN STUART-ROBERTSON APGA PRESIDENT
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
Head of Corporate Services
Dhammith Abeysuriya
Head of Policy
Jordan McCollum
National Policy Manager
Catriona Rafael
Head of Operations & Communications
Lawrence Shelton
Head of Engagement
Gayle Burns
Membership Officer
Katy Spence
Head of Corporate Affairs
Paul Purcell
Technical Advisor
Craig Bonar
e power of participation
Why staying engaged with APGA is essential for industry success.
APGA Head of Operations and Communications Lawrence Shelton
The pipeline industry has long been the backbone of Australia’s energy and infrastructure landscape, supporting economic growth and energy security. Central to this success is the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA), a collective voice for the industry, advocating for its interests, fostering professional development, and driving innovation.
Yet, in an era marked by rapid change –spanning technological advancements, energy transition, and evolving regulatory frameworks – it is more critical than ever for professionals and organisations to not only join but actively engage with APGA. Doing so unlocks opportunities for growth, collaboration, and in uence while strengthening the industry as a whole.
Building professional connections
Membership in APGA is more than a checkbox on a professional resume; it’s a gateway to a vibrant network of industry peers. e association serves as a hub for meaningful connections, o ering opportunities to collaborate, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships that drive success.
e annual APGA Convention and Exhibition is a prime example of the association’s role in facilitating these connections. As the industry’s premier event, it provides a platform to showcase projects, discuss emerging trends, and engage in technical discussions. Networking events, panel discussions, and exhibition opportunities create spaces for professionals to expand their reach and in uence within the industry.
Active participation ensures that members aren’t just spectators but contributors to the conversation, shaping the future of the industry.
Access to exclusive knowledge and resources
In a complex and ever-evolving industry, staying informed is paramount. APGA o ers its members a wealth of resources, including technical publications, research, and webinars, such as the popular In Conversation With series and the upcoming Moving Molecules technical webinar series. ese initiatives provide insights into critical topics ranging from energy transitions to advancements in pipeline safety and governance.
Additionally, members bene t from access to the association’s Code of Practice and other guidance documents, which are indispensable tools for ensuring compliance, safety, and e ciency. APGA’s focus on knowledgesharing enables professionals to stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes.
By participating in APGA initiatives, members not only gain knowledge but also contribute to it, ensuring the association remains a repository of cutting-edge expertise.
Shaping industry advocacy and policy
A united industry voice is essential in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and ensuring fair representation in policy decisions. APGA is a champion for the pipeline industry, advocating on issues such as energy policy and environmental standards.
Active involvement in APGA’s committees, working groups, and forums ampli es individual voices, ensuring that the association’s advocacy re ects the diverse needs and priorities of its members.
Driving collective impact
e challenges facing the pipeline industry require collective solutions. APGA provides a forum for collaboration, enabling members to pool resources, share knowledge, and drive innovation.
By staying involved, members not only bene t but also contribute to the association’s ongoing impact, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of industry.
A call to action
Whether you’re a long-time member or considering joining for the rst time, participating in APGA’s activities – be it attending events, contributing to committees, or accessing its resources – can open doors to new opportunities and perspectives. e strength of APGA lies in the collective contributions of its members. By working together, we can ensure the industry continues to grow, innovate, and adapt to meet the needs of tomorrow. Your involvement, at any level, makes a di erence. Let’s continue to build a vibrant and resilient future for the pipeline sector, one connection at a time.
Active engagement with the APGA ensures that members are able shape the future of the industry.
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APGA Convention exhibitor awards revealed e 2024 APGA Best Exhibitor Stand Awards recognised the exhibitors who truly stood out at the APGA Convention and Exhibition.
With a dynamic and interactive exhibit, T.D. Williamson and Pro Pipe Services captivated attendees and set a high standard
for large displays, highlighting their commitment to safety and innovation.
Iplex Pipelines took out the award for best small stand. e team’s innovative and eyecatching display made a big impact with a smaller footprint, showcasing their products in a creative and engaging way.
How Victoria is stabilising its gas supply
e Victorian Government has passed the O shore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Amendment Bill 2024, a key
legislative move aimed at bolstering the state’s gas supply.
e new law allows gas to be stored o shore in underground rock reservoirs –similar to the natural formation process of
is approach aims to stabilise Victoria’s gas supply, mitigating price uctuations during peak demand periods and providing a reliable backup for gas-powered electricity generation to help balance the grid.
Lily D’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Minister for Energy and Resources, said the government is ensuring a safe and reliable energy supply is maintained as the state continues building the renewable energy of the future and works towards net zero emissions by 2045.
“We’ve just unlocked new o shore gas storage projects that will be critical to helping us keep the lights on, protect consumers from high energy prices and support industry through the transition,”
One approved project, the Golden Beach energy storage project developed by GB Energy, is set to become Victoria’s rst o shore gas storage facility. Located o the coast of Gippsland, the project has cleared a comprehensive environmental review, including public consultation, and now moves to the nal investment stage.
e facility will initially produce gas for local use before transitioning into a storage role, o ering an additional 12.5 petajoules of capacity – almost a 50 percent increase in Victoria’s storage capabilities.
Expected to commence production in winter 2027, the Golden Beach project will provide approximately 30 petajoules of gas for the domestic market in its rst year – enough to meet a quarter of the annual consumption of Victorian households and small businesses.
Victoria is making legislative moves to stabilise its energy grid.
T.D. Williamson & Pro Pipe Services’ stand at the 2024 APGA Convention.
Iplex’s stand at the 2024 APGA Convention.
Jemena to inject biomethane into NSW gas network
Jemena has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Gwydir Circular Economy to explore the potential of introducing signi cant volumes of biomethane into the NSW gas network.
e collaboration aims to assess the technical requirements for injecting biomethane, a renewable gas produced from agricultural waste.
GCE plans to develop multiple biogas plants, with the rst project situated in a new circular economy precinct near Warialda in central northwest New South Wales.
e ambitious project could produce up to 20 petajoules (PJs) of biomethane annually, su cient to meet the energy needs of over 250,000 homes.
Jemena’s Managing Director David Gillespie highlighted the importance of the project.
“ is MOU builds on a range of biomethane projects Jemena is supporting and will see us work with GCE to understand the technical requirements associated with injecting signi cant volumes of biomethane into the NSW gas network,” he said.
“We know that many industries, especially those that need high heat for their processes, depend on gas to operate. ese sectors produce essential everyday items like windows, bricks, fertilisers, and medicines
and their operations cannot be readily electri ed. Once delivered, this partnership will enable these businesses to reduce their carbon emissions while continuing to operate.
“Biomethane has the same chemical qualities as natural gas which means it is compatible with all existing gas network infrastructure and industrial equipment, as well as gas appliances used in homes and businesses.”
GCE’s acting CEO Ken Davey said the company will collaborate with global experts in biogas and bioenergy to bring innovative technologies to the region and establish world’s-best-practice, industrial-scale circular economy projects.
e rst GCE Precinct will be located on a 70-hectare site near Warialda, utilising organic matter from a multigrain alcohol plant to create biogas, which will then be upgraded to biomethane.
Australia’s next LNG import terminal changes hands
Singapore-based energy company AG&P LNG has announced it will acquire Venice Energy, the developer of a lique ed natural gas (LNG) import terminal in Port Adelaide, South Australia.
e acquisition marks AG&P LNG’s entry into the Australian market and aims to address growing gas supply concerns in southeastern Australia.
e planned two million tonnes per annum Outer Harbor LNG import terminal will feature a converted 145,000 cubic meter LNG carrier transformed into a oating storage and regasi cation unit (FSRU).
e facility is expected to achieve a peak send-out capacity of 400 million standard cubic feet per day when it becomes operational in the rst quarter of 2027.
e acquisition will be funded by Nebula Energy, the majority owner of AG&P LNG.
e project comes at a crucial time as South Australia and Victoria face rapidly declining domestic gas supplies.
“Venice Energy has got the Outer Harbor LNG import terminal project shovel-ready with all key permits in place, o ering a key advantage over other LNG import terminal proposals in the region,” AG&P LNG Chairman Peter Gibson said.
Venice Energy chairman Kym WinterDewhirst said that the company chose AG&P LNG after an eight-month search for a strategic partner, citing the company’s nancial backing through Nebula Energy and its track record in LNG operations across Asia.
e terminal is positioned to be among the rst to address southeastern Australia’s gas shortage.
Beyond improving energy security, the project is expected to create jobs and attract signi cant investment to South Australia while supporting the state’s renewable energy sector through enhanced grid stability.
e move represents AG&P LNG’s latest expansion in the Asia Paci c region, where it
already maintains LNG operations and terminal projects across the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India.
Jemena’s Malabor biomethane facility in NSW.
What’s on the go in NSW?
Major pipeline projects are in the works in New South Wales with major milestones and investment achieved in recent months.
From new pipeline approvals in Muswellbrook to plans for an airport fuel corridor to major investment in West Sydney, there has been plenty going on in the pipeline industry in NSW.
Major water investment to support growth in West Sydney
Sydney Water is investing in infrastructure to support the future population and economic growth of Western Sydney.
is includes the construction of 6.8km of dual wastewater pipes, known as pressure mains, from the sewage pumping station being constructed at Gurner Avenue, Austral to the Upper South Creek advanced water recycling centre (AWRC) being constructed at Kemps Creek.
e Kemps Creek dual pressure mains (KCPM) project will improve wastewater services in the South West Growth Area (SWGA), one of the NSW Government’s three designated growth areas in South West Sydney.
is area will see substantial growth over the coming years, increasing from 2300 dwellings in 2022 to approximately 38,000 dwellings by 2056.
e project will transfer wastewater that is collected from homes and businesses in Austral, Leppington North, parts of Leppington, parts of Catherine Fields North, Rossmore, and Kemps
Creek – known as the Kemps Creek catchment area – to the AWRC to be treated there.
e AWRC is Sydney Water’s largest infrastructure investment in Western Sydney.
It promises to be a sophisticated wastewater treatment and resource recovery centre that will produce recycled water, renewable energy and bio-resources.
It will use reverse osmosis – the same technology used by the desalination plant – to treat water to a high-quality.
When completed in early 2026, the AWRC and associated pipelines will deliver sustainable wastewater services and high-quality recycled water to support a cooler, greener Western Parkland City.
New water pipeline approved Muswellbrook Shire Council has unanimously supported proceeding with the construction of the Denman to Sandy Hollow pipeline and upgrade of the Denman water treatment plant.
A report to a recent council meeting outlined the details of the $18.9 million grant funding and diligent assessment, in collaboration with Infrastructure NSW.
e report assessed the viability of proceeding with the project, including consideration of attracting future industry and development to the area.
Mayor Je Drayton said there are multiple bene ts to council proceeding.
“Firstly, it will provide a consistent and highquality water supply to residents and a genuine opportunity for future residential development. Secondly, it opens a wealth of opportunity for new industry,” he said.
“ e Golden Highway and other roads in the area have recently been designated as state roads.
“ e State Government is now responsible for upgrading and maintaining the roads to service the renewable energy zones.
“ is provides a high-quality transport corridor for future industry to access the port and metropolitan markets.”
e Denman to Sandy Hollow pipeline construction project is expected provide several bene ts for the communities of Muswellbrook Shire including:
• Denman water treatment plant upgrade to increase reliability and water security for a growing population
• Ensuring water security for Sandy Hollow residents
• Potential to avoid water restrictions in dry years
• Potential boost for new residential developments in Sandy Hollow
• Potential attraction of developers and investors, injecting more spending to the local economy.
Fuel pipeline corridor in the works for Western Sydney Airport
Transport for NSW is identifying route options for a fuel pipeline corridor for Western Sydney International Airport.
e Government department said it is essential to establish an e cient fuel supply to the area to ensure successful operation and growth of the airport.
e fuel pipeline will be constructed and operated by a fuel supplier.
e fuel pipeline is expected to provide key bene ts for the area, including the provision of e cient and secured fuel supply to the Western Sydney International Airport precinct and the surrounding precincts.
It will also ensure reduced road congestion, vehicle emissions and improved road safety, Transport for NSW said.
Transport for NSW said it will continue to liaise with other agencies to identify a fuel pipeline corridor, that are ideally based in current road reserves, which service the Western Parkland City, the new international airport and surrounding precinct.
A dedicated fuel pipeline will help reduce trucks on local roads thereby easing congestion and help improve road safety.
Further work will determine the most e ective and sustainable approach in delivering the pipeline.
In 2023, Western Sydney Airport began a process to gather expressions of interest and proposals to develop and operate the pipeline by the industry.
APA celebrates Kurri Kurri pipeline milestone
APA Group has celebrated a major milestone at the Kurri Kurri lateral pipeline project in NSW.
e project covers a buried gas transmission pipeline and storage pipeline that will connect the proposed Hunter power plant at Kurri Kurri to the existing Sydney to Newcastle pipeline. is comprises the construction of two pipelines ranging between 21–24km in length each.
e APA executive leadership team (ELT) visited the project just days after the lowering-in of the last string section of the pipeline.
“ is critical milestone brings us closer to ensuring a reliable gas supply from our purposebuilt gas storage facility,” APA Group said in a social media post.
“Coinciding with Inclusion at Work Week, we are especially proud that our ELT is 50 per cent women, which re ects the inclusive values driving our organisation forward.
“A big thank you to everyone at APA who champions these values and to the incredible teams shaping our industry as we navigate the energy transition.”
The project will include the construction of 6.8km of dual wastewater pipes.
Pipeline dust under the ngernails
Pipeline Plant Hire has been in the trenches of the pipeline industry for decades. In that time, the team has learned a thing or two about handling polyethylene pipeline projects.
heavy-duty pipeline projects,
When it comes to choosing the best way to handle polyethylene (PE) pipe, it’s hard to look past vacuum lifts. e safety and e ciency bene ts o ered by these machines are highly competitive, making them a necessity in almost all pipeline projects across Australia.
But not all vacuum lifts are created equal, and when handling heavy pipe components, picking the right machine is critical.
Few understand this better than Pipeline Plant Hire (PPH). e company cut its teeth in PE pipe handling roughly 20 years ago, helping deliver pipeline projects at a time where pipe handling options were limited.
“PPH pioneered the equipment to handle PE pipe in Australia – and that rst took o in the coal seam gas industry,” business partner Global Pipeline Equipment’s Matt Dridan told e Australian Pipeliner
e company’s pro ciency was recognised early on, with PPH forging a close relationship with leading PE pipe manufacturers Iplex and Vinidex.
For
PPH o ers vacuum lifts integrated into excavator host bodies.
The safety and e ciency bene ts of vacuum lifts are highly competitive.
PPH supplied specialty vacuum lifting equipment to each company’s respective stockyards, and later factories.
“ at was a big break; it gave us an inside connection to what pipes were being developed for the market,” Dridan said.
“As demand grew, so did the need for larger diameters and lengths of pipe, so we were able to have our nger on the pulse there.
“We worked with these companies to design and engineer the best way to handle these larger pipes.”
And since the early days, PPH’s capabilities and expertise have only deepened. Fast forward to 2025 and the company is delivering custom solutions to a large chunk of the pipeline market all over Australia.
In the PE pipe handling space, a typical transaction begins with a customer approaching PPH with a project.
“ e rst thing we do is gure out what the project is, what the client is trying to achieve, what kind of terrain they’re working in,” Dridan said.
“We also look at the equipment – the pipe, the pipe wall thickness, its degree of ovality, what sort of exibility it has, and so on.
“From there we can design and supply the best piece of equipment for the job.”
While the exact speci cations of this equipment varies between project, the two most common base models are the integrated type and the quick-hitch attachment type.
For more heavy-duty pipeline projects, PPH o ers vacuum lifts integrated into excavator host bodies. ese machines have the greatest lifting capabilities and are ideal for dedicated pipeline projects.
e quick-hitch attachment type is a vacuum lift that can be easily a xed to third party excavators.
“We developed these attachments for cases where asset owners don’t have need of a fulltime vacuum lift on site,” Dridan said.
“ ey have a lifting capacity of 15 tonnes and will cover virtually any pipe you’re likely to encounter on a project.
“And weighing only around 750kg, they’re a lot cheaper to freight across the country than a 30-tonne machine – which is handy if you’re working at a remote site.”
Perfect simplicity
“All of our gear is designed to be simple, serviceable, and robust,” Dridan said.
“Our machines aren’t designed with complicated components and computers;
there’s push buttons, and seven core cable connecting A to B – the reason being that you can get it at the roadhouse.
“What you don’t want is to have half a dozen trucks lined up in a desert on a $300 million project, only to realise ‘Oh, where’s the remote control? is thing won’t work today’. at’s not an option. It’s as though you send the equipment to Mars. It has to work.”
Simplicity in design also makes the machinery serviceable by the average worker, which is another philosophy of the company. is ensures that the machine can keep operating in even the most remote locations, where sourcing a technician may not be possible.
is simplicity, ironically, has only been achieved through meticulous engineering and thorough after sales support. PPH o ers nation-wide training for its customers’ eld sta to ensure they know exactly how to use the machinery for their speci c application.
“ ere is no substitute for local support and training,” Dridan said.
“Number one, our customers get the right tool for the job. Number two, they get the training, certi cation, and pro ciency to use that tool. Number three, they get the technical support along the way.
“When they ring, we answer the phone, and you talk to the guy who built it. It’s as simple as that.”
In terms of robustness, PPH machinery is Australian made, designed for harsh outdoor conditions, and built with galvanised BlueScope steel. It can handle the hardest environments Australia has to o er.
Why vacuum lifting?
“Vacuum lifts are one of the rare exceptions where both safety and productivity go up,” Dridan said.
“Before vacuum lifts, workers used to climb down into the trenches with slings and chains, and they’d winch these pipes together.
“It was a tough job on a nice day, let alone in inclement weather and unstable and tough ground conditions.”
Fortunately, vacuum lifting has made these dangerous practices a relic of the past.
In one project, Dridan recalls seeing a PPH vacuum lift being used to install 1800mm diameter breglass pipes in a 20-foot-deep shaft.
“ ey were able to just snatch the pipe straight o the truck, reach down the hole and plug these pipes together without anybody in harm’s way,” he said.
“It’s an extremely e cient method of installation, saving a signi cant amount of time and money.”
And when asked what makes PPH a premier choice for vacuum lifts, Dridan kept it simple.
“For us, the proof is in the pudding. Our vacuum lifts have been out there for 15 years without dropping pipes and causing headaches,” he said.
It’s a sentiment echoed by PPH Director Gerard O’Brien.
“PPH is a company with Australian pipeline dust under the ngernails,” he said.
“We have a proven track record of providing the right tool for the job and the technical support to back it.
“Our vacuum lifts are simple, safe, serviceable, and robust machines with many runs on the board, accrued over many years.”
PPH machinery is Australian made and designed for harsh outdoor conditions.
Squeezing is a thing of the past
For many years squeezing was an acceptable form of isolating polyethylene pipe in the pipeline industry to perform maintenance, repairs or performing a branch connection.
Pro Pipe Services has identi ed that polyethylene (PE) pipelines are now more common in the distribution market than ever.
Laying PE pipe is much more e cient, and easier to lay, meaning more pipe can be put into the ground than the equivalent steel pipe, meaning water and gas can be supplied to new estates in a shorter period of time.
Having recognised the change of pipeline material and the need to isolate the line to perform work on the lines, Pro Pipe Services has invested in TDW’s POLYSTOPP® Hot Tap and Line Isolation equipment from 110mm to 250mm in diameter.
As a service provider of hot tapping, line isolation and pipeline services, Pro Pipe Services can isolate steel, cast iron, ductile iron and of course PE pipelines. With the use of the POLYSTOPP equipment, Pro Pipe Services can isolate PE pipes from 110mm to 250mm in diameter.
e company can also isolate 110mm to 200mm lines operating up to 10bar (1000 kPa), and 225mm to 250mm PE lines up to 7bar (700 Kpa).
e equipment is lightweight, meaning the equipment can be man handled, and used out of a utility. Traditionally anything DN150 (6-inch) or larger on a steel pipeline would need heavy equipment and the use of a crane to lift the equipment onto the pipeline, however with the POLYSTOPP equipment, there is no need for the use of a crane for pipelines up to 250mm.
Pro Pipe Services is a one-stop-shop when it comes to isolating PE pipelines. rough its channel partnership with TDW, the company supplies the POLYSTOPP ttings, fuse the ttings on the line and can even complete the tie-ins if the customer requires that service.
e TDW POLYSTOPP equipment has an integrated bypass on the Universal Valves, meaning that Pro Pipe Services can run a bypass through its equipment without the need for additional ttings on the line, and the bypass length can be whatever the customer needs.
Since Pro Pipe Services has invested so heavily in TDW’s POLYSTOPP equipment, it now has three sets of equipment. is means if the customer wants to complete multiple alterations on a PE pipe, Pro Pipe Services has the
equipment and dedicated vehicles kitted out with the appropriate G+F Fusion Units, scrapers, and approved generators to perform the task.
When it comes to isolations, the company fuses on a TDW plugging tting, which works the same way as a traditional SHORTSTOPP® Weld tting.
By installing a valve on top of the tting, Pro Pipe Services can hot tap the line and install a POLYSTOPP plugging machine to isolate the section of pipe.
In addition, Pro Pipe Services o ers TDW’s POLYSTOPP Bottom Branch tting. is tting works the same way as a SHORTSTOPP 3-WAY™ Tee, where it can install the tting onto the mainline, and the new pipeline is then tied into the bottom branch.
After all the testing has been completed, Pro Pipe Services then hot tap the bottom branch to commission the new line, as well as having the ability to isolate the mainline if required. When all the work has been completed a completion plug is installed into the POLYSTOPP tting and cap is installed on top. e tting can be re-entered in the future.
Pro Pipe Services places the safety of its workers, customers and the public above all else and is committed to overcoming any challenge and completing all required works with the utmost professionalism, e ciency and safety.
e company not only provides hot tapping and line isolation services, but it also provides pipe cutting, commissioning, decommissioning, equipment maintenance on all types of pipeline equipment and training.
PE bottom branch hot tap.
Exploring the resilience of stormwater systems
Extreme weather events such as unseasonal storms, bush res, and major water surges during ooding are becoming more frequent and severe, creating challenges for stormwater systems. Vinidex has a solution.
For infrastructure systems, especially stormwater management systems, severe weather events present signi cant challenges. e resilience of these systems is critical to safeguarding communities and preventing costly damage to both urban and rural areas.
In this context, it’s essential to explore how stormwater systems, particularly those made from advanced materials like twinwall plastic pipes, can withstand these increasingly extreme conditions.
In a recent webinar hosted by Vinidex, Dr Michael Pluimer, a leading expert in sustainable infrastructure, shared valuable insights into the resilience of stormwater systems.
He examined the performance of modern stormwater infrastructure under the pressures of extreme weather, drawing comparisons between the latest US trends and the speci c challenges faced by the Australian market.
Pluimer also highlighted ndings from the Deep Bury Study, which provides critical data on the long-term durability of stormwater systems.
A key indicator of durability
One of the pieces of research discussed was the Deep Bury Study, a long-term investigation into the performance of exible pipe systems.
e study focused on pipes that had been in service for over 35 years, providing invaluable insights into the longevity and resilience of modern stormwater materials.
e ndings were encouraging, showing that the pipes remained in excellent condition after over three decades of use.
Pluimer outlined several key conclusions from the study:
Pipe condition: Despite being buried underground for more than three decades, the pipes showed no signs of deterioration or signi cant wear. is nding reinforced the reliability and durability of modern pipe materials, particularly in comparison to traditional materials that are more prone to corrosion and wear over time.
Stabilised de ections: e study revealed that the vertical de ection of the pipes stabilised within the rst 30 days of installation. e ability of exible pipes to settle and maintain their integrity over time ensures the continued performance of stormwater systems even under heavy loads.
Unchanged material properties: One of the most important ndings was that the material properties of the pipes remained unchanged after 35 years. is indicates that the exible pipe materials, used in stormwater infrastructure, retain
their strength, exibility, and resistance to environmental stresses for decades. is research has led to signi cant advancements in exible pipe design and the acceptance of these materials in stormwater systems. Pluimer advised that it demonstrates that modern plastic pipes, such as twinwall polyethylene pipes, are not only more sustainable but also more resilient under extreme conditions compared to older pipe materials.
Twinwall plastic pipes: A gamechanger for stormwater systems
Such insights have highlighted the role that twinwall plastic pipes can play in the Australian infrastructure landscape.
ese advanced pipes are designed for nonpressure stormwater and drainage applications, making them ideal for managing the increased water ows caused by extreme weather events.
Vinidex StormPRO® pipes are twinwall, corrugated polypropylene (PE) pipes designed for non-pressure stormwater and drainage applications. ey o er a cost-e ective, environmentally friendly solution for various sectors, including roads, rail, mining, rural drainage, and land development. ese pipes are ideal for managing stormwater runo , culverts, and drainage in both residential and industrial projects.
In addition, StormFLO by Vinidex is another prime example of the durability and resilience of twinwall plastic pipes. Made from corrugated PE, StormFLO pipes are known for their strength, exibility, and longevity.
ese pipes are speci cally designed to handle the unique demands of Australian conditions, from intense storms to prolonged dry spells and everything in between.
Some key features of StormFLO include durability, sustainability credentials, compliance with Australian Standards, and ease of handling and installations.
StormFLO pipes are designed to withstand the harsh Australian climate, and are resistant to corrosion, chemical exposure, and physical damage, ensuring that they will perform reliably for decades.
e pipes are also made with up to 65 per cent post-consumer recycled material, making them a sustainable choice for stormwater management projects. is not only helps reduce the environmental impact of stormwater systems but also aligns with global sustainability goals.
Images: Vinidex
StormFLO 225mm Spigot and Socket 6m lengths.
StormFLO pipes are fully compliant with Australian and New Zealand standards (AU/NZS 5065), ensuring that they meet rigorous performance and safety requirements.
Despite their strength, StormFLO pipes are lightweight and easy to handle, making installation more e cient and cost-e ective.
ese features make StormFLO an ideal solution for modern stormwater infrastructure, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather events like unseasonal storms and ooding.
In Australia, Vinidex teamed up with Spark North East Link Program (NELP) to trial its StormFLO pipe system, aiming to demonstrate the viability of this engineered solution for use in the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) road network.
e trial, conducted under a tra cable road, could pave the way for StormFLO’s approval for use in DTP assets if successful.
e testing took place along the Bulleen Road Temporary Diversion, where pipes were installed perpendicular to the tra c ow. e focus of the trial was to assess the performance of StormFLO 375mm nominal diameter pipes under the constant stress of tra c loads. Vinidex oversaw the entire installation process, which included the provision of additional CCTV monitoring both during and after construction.
e trial’s ndings were compiled into a report, which outlines several key aspects of the trial, including the installation process, trench design, internal diameter, and the pipe’s de ection under the loads generated by construction tra c on a Department of Transport (DOT) asset.
e results after 12 months are encouraging, with StormFLO Civil pipes performing well during installation and throughout four separate inspections.
According to the trial, if the temporary road were to remain operational, there is every indication that the StormFLO pipes would function for the expected 100-year design life.
is makes the system a strong candidate for longterm, sustainable infrastructure solutions. is successful trial could open the door for StormFLO to be adopted in various road infrastructure projects, reinforcing its suitability for both short-term and long-term applications in the road network.
How stormwater systems are adapting
Extreme weather events — ranging from heavy rainfall and ash ooding to prolonged dry spells and bush res — are challenging traditional stormwater systems.
Historically, stormwater infrastructure was designed to handle average rainfall and moderate ooding. However, the frequency and intensity of extreme events are now exceeding the capabilities of older systems.
In response to these challenges, engineers and designers are increasingly turning to advanced materials like twinwall plastic pipes, which o er superior resilience to both the physical and environmental stresses caused by extreme weather. ese pipes are less likely to su er from the wear and tear that can a ect older materials, such as concrete or steel, which may corrode, crack, or become misaligned under extreme conditions.
Additionally, exible plastic pipes can adapt to ground movement, such as shifting or settling soil, which often causes traditional pipes to crack or break. is exibility makes them a superior option for areas prone to natural disasters, where the ground can shift dramatically during events like bush res or ooding.
Furthermore, with the increased emphasis on sustainability, modern stormwater systems are being designed not just to resist extreme weather, but also to mitigate the environmental impact of these events. Stormwater management is now seen as an integral part of a broader environmental strategy, and systems like StormFLO are helping to achieve this by incorporating recyclable materials and supporting more e cient, long-lasting solutions.
As extreme weather events continue to challenge infrastructure systems around the world, it’s clear that the resilience of stormwater systems is more important than ever.
For stormwater systems to keep pace with these challenges, adopting advanced materials like twinwall plastic pipes is crucial.
Vinidex not only provides this, but its products are also environmentally friendly and coste ective, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Installation and back lling of StormFLO pipe under Bulleen Road temporary diversion.
Safevac SV200 ready for handling poly
Austrack Operations Manager Dylan Gamble talks SafeVac’s journey on developing the newest model for safe and e cient handling of polyethylene pipe.
In recent years, Austrack Equipment has undergone a complete transformation. Originally a plant hire company that evolved into a supplier of specialised pipeline equipment, now – with the development of the SafeVac Lifting Systems™ Vaclifts – Austrack has added equipment designer and manufacturer to its list of accomplishments.
e development of the SafeVac Vaclift Lifting Systems was a multi-disciplinary endeavour, but if there is one individual in Austrack who can reasonably claim to have driven the e ort, that person is Operations Manager Dylan Gamble.
Gamble, still in his twenties, joined Austrack three years ago in the position of Lead Maintenance Supervisor. He quickly grabbed the reins of the SafeVac development project which, on his arrival, was beginning to gain momentum.
Gamble’s career began with an apprenticeship as a diesel tter with a major pipeline contractor, where he quickly showed an aptitude for all aspects of selection, maintenance, and customisation of the wide range of equipment that pipeline construction involves. is background, along with an insatiable appetite to challenge the conventional and to relentlessly explore better ways of doing things, made him a natural t for the Austrack SafeVac project.
On taking control of SafeVac development, Gamble drew all the complementary – and at times, competing – elements together.
Engineering design and fabrication, mechanical certi cation, system control design and safety certi cation, critical component procurement were all managed into a coordinated whole.
And Gamble’s role went well beyond simple project coordination. His real-world experience as a tter helped in uence critical development decisions, with the practical always quietly informing the theoretical.
Apart from the hard technical and performance decisions. there were also softer issues to manage, such as machine hazard assessment, creation of operations manuals, development of operator training, testing and commissioning, seeking Australian Made endorsement, patent submissions, and organising on-site and o -site demonstrations to clients.
“At the start, the list of activities seemed endless,” Gamble said.
“ e end goal of creating a state-of-the-art lifting attachment that could compete with and hopefully improve on what was available in the marketplace at times seemed a long way o .
“But we never lost sight of our objective. From the beginning we had a clear vision and remained focused on it.
“Our objective was always to meet the latest European standard EN13155 which we knew would position us ahead of the curve, especially as the relevant Australian standard AS4991 is currently under review and is expected to soon more closely align with the European standard.”
Having been involved into the development from the beginning, there isn’t a nut or bolt on the original SV400 or the recently released SV200 that Gamble isn’t familiar with.
“Before SafeVac, we hired-in vaclifts from other suppliers to service our customers. is arrangement wasn’t ideal for us and, rather than purchase units that didn’t entirely suit our clients’ requirements, we bit the bullet and decided to develop our own system to better serve our customers,” he said.
“Our unit was always intended to be part of our hire eet and is not intended to be o ered for sale at this stage. In this regard our major consideration remains on system performance rather than cost.
“Our SV400 has now been in production for almost three years, and we are satis ed that we have both the numbers and the options to satisfy the tracked excavator 30-tonne and upwards segment of the pipeline market.
“ is year our concentration has been on nalising our new SV200 model. Coal seam gas gathering activities continue to grow apace, especially in Queensland’s Surat and Cooper Basins, and the development of the smaller wheeled excavator unit is timely to meet the growing demand for this type of unit.”
Gamble said the SV200 excels at polyethylene pipe handling.
“A single shoe unit tted to a wheeled excavator is ideally suited to handling a range of smaller diameter poly pipes where pipe weights up to 2500kg can be catered for,” he said.
“It is precise, nimble and adaptable and all of the sophisticated datalogging that has made the bigger twin shoe tracked unit so popular comes as standard on this smaller unit. All the safety and e ciency bene ts of the SV400 are available to users of the new unit.
“We already have units out on site, and we will be adding to those numbers as 2025 production ramps up. Early users are already reporting high levels of satisfaction with performance levels for the new model.
“Gas gathering activities in Queensland’s coal seam gas elds will continue to play an important part in the Queensland economy for the foreseeable future. We are expecting our SV200 wheeled excavator mounted vaclift will play its part in that activity.”
Image: Austrack Equipment
SV400 in action.
SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY APPLICATION
GripTight ® Test & Isolation
Plugs
GripTight Test and Isolation Plugs have been installed countless times in a wide range of applications. Their patented designs combined with hardened components and single-body, uninterrupted seals make for field performance that’s second to none.
Whether you’re testing open end pipe, systems terminating in long radius elbows, testing flange welds or isolating lines you can count on the GripTight Family of Test & Isolation Plugs from Curtiss-Wright to perform above expectations, test after test.
• OD and ID solutions available
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• Eliminates welding end caps for pressure testing pipe spools and piping systems
• Test flange-to-pipe welds without pressurizing entire systems
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• Standard pressure ratings up to 15,000 PsiG (1034 BarG)
• ASME PCC-2 Type I, III & IV Testing Devices
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Leading the way in fusion innovation
For decades, high-density polyethylene has proven to be a reliable, cost-e ective, and long-term solution for the world’s growing and changing infrastructure needs.
With its lack of corrosion, multiple trenchless installation options, and high level of quality assurance, thermoplastic high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is a fast-growing choice for both new installations and projects to replace aging infrastructure.
McElroy is a world-leading developer and manufacturer of thermoplastic pipe fusion equipment. Founded by Art and Panny McElroy in their Tulsa, Oklahoma garage in 1954, McElroy’s machinery has cemented itself as a premier choice on fusion sites around the world.
Cutting-edge meets McElroy muscle
Over the last few years, McElroy has worked to bring new technology and innovative machinery to the market. e company has made huge strides in providing both operators and owners with additional tools
Image: McElroy
McElroy’s DataLogger and T630i.
to help get the job done right the rst time. at includes additional technology that can be found in its latest TracStar® iSeries machines.
ese new innovations allow users of all experience levels to work comfortably with fusion machines and feel con dent in each fuse produced. e TracStar iSeries line provides operators with three levels of machine control: Level 1’s manual operation, Level 2’s semi-automatic fusion, and Level 3’s fully automatic, softwarecontrolled fusion functions. McElroy’s ‘enhanced guided work ow’ automates the machine’s shift sequence and walks operators through the heating and fusing times with on-screen prompts using the DataLogger® 7 tablet.
“ e enhanced guided work ow with the DataLogger 7 is impressive,” Fusion Technologies (FTI) founder Les Klaudt said.
“If you have somebody go into the eld on an occasional basis, that guided work ow is fantastic as a reminder of how the process needs to work, and it has been a huge help for us in our training and for those of us who aren’t as frequent [fusion operators] as we once were.”
Machine operators can access most of McElroy’s quality control features through the DataLogger, the ruggedised tablet designed to record pertinent fusion data. More recently, McElroy has developed new software that allows the DataLogger tablet to also be a platform for accessing training content, perform equipment inspections, and more.
Targeted training
McElroy now o ers a free digital learning library where machine users can quickly access short-form instructional videos for their machines. is new public help portal allows users to choose resources based on the machine and provides a variety of resources, from performing fusion on the machine to how to properly measure parameters like drag or alignment.
For new or less experienced machine operators, the DataLogger 7 tablet also includes an option for trainer mode, which can be used to speed up the training process and help new or inexperienced operators quickly familiarise themselves with the machine’s functions and processes.
Trainer mode lets users simulate the fusion process, as well.
ese exercises, performed entirely on the DataLogger without the need of a machine, walk the user through performing a fuse. To keep the training itself as streamlined as possible, simulated fusions shorten the amount of time needed for heat soak and fuse/cool times during the training. Simulated fusions for training purposes are available for multiple McElroy machines, including the TracStar 1200i, TracStar 412i, and Tritan™ 560.
Latest innovations
In October 2024, McElroy announced the implementation of operator pro les.
Each operator pro le includes a unique ID that joins data across the Vault, McElroy University, and the DataLogger. It is also built ready for integration with other training and credential systems. Individuals who attend McElroy University training –whether in-person or online – will receive a card that is equipped with a non-replicable chip, like the one found in a credit card. at card can then be used to easily log on to the DataLogger, much like ‘tap to pay’ cell phone features.
By tapping the operator card to a phone, the user can go directly to that operator’s pro le page and see summary statistics of their fusion experience, including machines, pipe sizes, and completed training courses. is, in e ect, gives operators a digital fusion resume that they can build upon, creating better industry career paths.
Contractors and site managers can, in turn, assign fusion tasks based on operators’ level of familiarity with speci c machines or pipe sizes, once again bolstering the assurance that each joint will be fused properly.
In the eld
e DataLogger 7 is one of a contractor’s best tools to ensure that all fusions are performed correctly.
And the results speak for themselves. When GEM Industrial became involved in the project to expand the water infrastructure for the City of Gold Coast, owner Darren Chandler knew that the DataLogger was a must-have on the site.
“[With the DataLogger] the guys in the eld can compare the joint to the log and know they got it right,” he said.
“If there’s any doubt, we don’t have an issue with cutting a joint out. It’s de nitely a good practice.”
Equipment inspection app
Another recent addition to McElroy’s quality assurance lineup is the McElroy Equipment Inspection app, which is now available online for Android and iOS devices. The app allows machine owners to manage and maintain their fleets, ensuring each piece of equipment is ready to perform. The inspection app can be used with rental equipment as well as inspections required by companies and governmental agencies alike. The app is best viewed using McElroy’s DataLogger 7, but it can be used on any device.
The app seamlessly guides users through the inspection with pre-populated checklists for machines and components. The built-in DataLogger camera can be used to snap pictures of machines, allowing for easy identification. To streamline operations, the Inspection app allows users to create customised inspection surveys for any piece of equipment they own – not just McElroy fusion machines. An additional feature for McElroy products is that the app provides access to OEM replacement part numbers, allowing owners and distributors to easily create a list of replacement parts if repairs need to be made.
Mcelroy Australia
McElroy now offers a dedicated website for Australian distributors and customers. Because Australia is such a large and fastgrowing market for plastic pipe fusion, McElroy recognised the need for a localised site to allow partners to quickly access resources tailored to their geographical location.
Through mcelroyfusion.com.au, users can also directly contact staff at McElroy’s Australian location and offers users a way to quickly find available poly welding courses, training, and certification opportunities in Australia.
Whether fusing in the Australian bush or in a crowded metropolitan area, McElroy a leading pipe fusion resource for operators, contractors, and inspectors. As the world becomes increasingly technology driven – and as demand grows for accountability and quality control in infrastructure – McElroy remains poised to maintain its reputation as a worldleading manufacturer of fusion equipment and accessories.
A poly welding powerhouse
Immune to corrosion, light weight, and fully sealed, polyethylene (PE) pipes are engineered to perform for decades. But for an asset owner to get the most out of their PE pipeline, getting the welding right is critical. is is even more the case for high-risk or highpressure applications, where experienced and highly skilled welders are essential.
is is where Poly Welding Specialists (PWS), a specialist PE welding service provider, comes in.
Experts in poly welding, electrofusion welding, and extrusion welding services, PWS is helping to deliver complex PE pipeline projects across Australia.
“PWS is committed to delivering our clients with reliable, scalable and high-quality solutions,” PWS told e Australian Pipeliner
“We have worked with some of Australia’s largest companies, successfully delivering a range of pipeline projects of varying complexity and scope.”
e company specialises in all aspects of PE welding including in trench welding, tie ins, string work, bypasses, electrofusion, extrusion and fabrication.
Additional capabilities include large and smallbore sizes from 40mm–1600mm diameter, low and high pressure fusion processes, in-trench welding and external and internal de-beading, tensile and hydrostatic test welds, sub-divisions, and much more.
Additionally, PWS’ fabrication workshop in Victoria has become a core strength, allowing the team to make complex bends, ttings and bypasses on demand.
Upwards trajectory
Kickstarted in 2013, PWS found its footing delivering one major project after another as its reputation grew. From a signi cant 560mm water main in the southeast Melbourne region to pipe
work ranging from 160–1200mm for a major treatment plant, PWS has become a go-to specialist for Tier 1 contractors.
Since its inception, the company has steadily evolved into a powerhouse, boasting a state-ofthe-art factory, an impressive eet of over 50 specialised machines with 12 McElroy fusion units, and a team of highly skilled technicians.
If you ask the PWS team what sets the company apart, they’ll tell you it’s their unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive, tailored solutions that address the unique challenges of each project.
“We’ve got the best talents and best machines for every speci c application, and our setup is e cient and not overkill,” PWS Managing Director Troy Marshall said.
“We can handle the whole process in-house from custom fabrication to nal installation – that’s a big advantage over suppliers and contractors.”
One of PWS’ biggest edges is controlling the entire supply chain through its sister company Mako Poly.
Mako Poly is a fabrication company that manufactures ttings, made to order bends, bypass assemblies, ange spools, sheet work, and accessories for PE pipelines. When paired with the eld capabilities of PWS, the companies are a one-stop-shop for all things PE.
“We provide every tting and material inhouse for seamless end-to-end service. We make our clients’ priority our priority,” PWS Director Matt Van Soest said.
“We make it easy for contractors. ey focus on the main runs while we look after the specialised work.”
PWS has its roots in Victoria, but its reach is Australia-wide. With callouts available 24/7, the company is lending its expertise to the pipeline industry anywhere, any time.
Images: Poly Welding Specialists
PWS takes on challenging poly welding projects across civil construction, water treatment, land lls, re services and communications infrastructure.
Asset owners are turning to Poly Welding Specialists for their PE pipeline projects.
PWS controls the entire supply chain through its sister company, Mako Poly.
Crafted and Innovative Marine Construction
Why Choose us
At Commercial Marine Group, we provide trusted, innovative and sustainable marine construction solutions, ensuring the safety, longevity, and success of critical infrastructure.
From underwater expertise to tailored engineering, we deliver peace of mind through our commitment to excellence, compliance and partnership.
What we do
Remediation to marine structures
Temporary works design
Design & construction of marine structures
Subsea (underwater) repairs & maintenance
Subsea investigation including acoustic & sonar hydrograhic survey
Early contractor involvement
Feasibility & constructability advice
ROV (robotics)
has been hard at work developing
Engineered to last
The Australian Pipeliner explores how polyethylene pipes can contribute to a sustainable industry.
Polyethylene (PE) has been used in piping for more than 60 years, but in the old days its capabilities were severely limited. Fast forward to 2025 and PE pipelines are a dominant force in the utilities industry, making up around 85 per cent of water services infrastructure in Australian cities. ey are also proli c in telecommunication, irrigation, and gas transmission networks.
Being lightweight, relatively simple to manufacture, corrosion-resistant, and coste ective makes PE a competitive choice for asset owners. And unlike single-use plastic, modern PE pipes are engineered to last for a century and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
To learn more about how PE pipe is revolutionising the industry, e Australian Pipeliner spoke with Cindy Bray, Executive
General Manager of the Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia Limited (PIPA).
Plastic gets a bad name, Bray said, but PE has a lot to o er in terms of economic circularity.
“PE pipes are made using engineered polymer materials that are highly stable – a design that facilitates simple recycling and supports a circular economy,” she said.
“With an exceptional service life, most plastic pipes are still in their rst life cycle. is is very di erent from single-use plastic.”
Long life design, reuse and repair, and recyclability are all principles of a circular economy, and PE pipe checks each of these boxes.
Common plastics used for pipe production are readily reprocessed, making them 100 per cent recyclable.
ese materials are highly valued, with the industry proactively reclaiming as much as possible through e cient manufacturing practices, reuse of scrap generated during production, and the recycling of old pipes. is serves to both reduce the consumption of these nite materials and diverts a signi cant amount of waste from land ll.
“Old PE pipe can be reprocessed back to its pelletised form, and then can be used in nonpressure pipes,” Bray said. When it comes to manufacturing PE pipe using recycled materials, the industry must adhere to strict quality assurance and control guidelines. is ensures that pipes made from such material are guaranteed to meet the safety, performance, and lifespan expectations of the Australian market.
Images: PIPA
PIPA
technical guidelines for the industry when it comes to using recycled material in PE pipe manufacturing.
PIPA has been hard at work developing technical guidelines for the industry when it comes to using recycled material in PE pipe manufacturing.
“ e industry has worked quite hard on developing guidelines to help recyclers and manufacturers scrutinise recycled material to make sure that it is t for purpose,” Bray said.
“And once it’s manufactured, we’ve looked at additional testing that should be done on that pipe to make sure that it is going to still last that 100-year lifespan.”
Currently, recycled material is only permitted in the manufacturing of nonpressure pipes, such as drainage and irrigation.
e combination of long product life and e cient recycling initiatives has left the PE pipe manufacturing industry with a unique problem. At the moment, there’s not a lot of raw material available to work with.
“PIPA is focusing on working across industries to increase the quantity of recyclable material available for manufacturers,” Bray said.
“One of the things we’re doing is identifying those areas where plastic pipes are being used for shorter lifespans and reclaiming that material. Mine sites are a great example, as they typically operate for around 30 years.
“Plastic pipes – particularly PE pipes – are used quite extensively on mines in applications like transferring water and slurries, and so on. And those pipes sit above the ground, so we don’t have to dig them up.
“ is is just one opportunity where we can reclaim those pipes, adding a signi cant amount of recyclable material back into the manufacturing cycle relatively quickly.”
Recyclable material is not strictly limited to PE pipes. PIPA has technical guidelines about the use of other types of plastics in the pipemaking process.
“Part of what PIPA’s technical guidelines do is provide the manufacturer with an ingredients list,” Bray said.
“With some products, like corrugated drainage pipes, manufacturers might use alternative sources of recycled HDPE, such as milk bottles.
“But they might only use 30 per cent recycled material so ensure that the finished product will meet relevant performance standards.”
The PE industry is one of the most rapidly developing industries in Australia. As technology advances, these pipes are finding their way into more complex projects and can now be manufactured domestically in diameters up to 2m.
Thanks to the hard work of industry figures like PIPA, the quality, recyclability, and capabilities of PE pipe will only continue to grow.
PE pipes are engineered to last for a century and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
Old PE pipe can be reprocessed back to its pelletised form, and then can be used in non-pressure pipes.
Carving a legacy
Tesmec’s range of chainsaw trenchers are delivering challenging pipeline and infrastructure projects all over Australia.
Australia is a hard country. Vast expanses of land, extreme uctuations in temperature and harsh terrain make it a logistically challenging land for utilities companies to operate in. But for 10 years, Tesmec has been carving out its place in the market.
Specialising in trenching machines designed for pipelines, gas networks, water systems, and drainage works, Tesmec has rede ned the standards of excavation technology with its innovative approach and cutting-edge equipment.
Meet the eet
e 975 EVO Chainsaw is Tesmec’s 40-tonne small-to-medium pipeline trencher. With a robust 375 HP engine and trenching dimensions ranging between 35cm–51cm for single chain boom and 61cm–91cm for double chain boom, the 975 EVO makes rock excavation activities a cinch.
e excavated material is immediately ready for subsequent handling, eliminating the need for double handling and reducing logistical complexities and costs.
A standout feature of the machine is its versatility. e tractor and chainsaw attachments come as standard with the crumbshoe or protection bar kit, stabilisers, cross conveyor system, as well as certain technology features.
However, thanks to the modular design of the 975 EVO, the machine can also host Tesmec’s Rock Hawg attachment. is attachment is best suited to bulk excavation and tunnelling in roadrail-civil infrastructures.
e machine also elevates operator safety, providing a pressurised cab with air conditioning, heating and sound suppression.
While the 975 EVO is ideal for heavy-duty applications, the 975R Chainsaw is engineered to excel in urban and suburban environments. With trenching dimensions ranging between 20cm all the way up to 63cm, what truly distinguishes the 950R is its adaptability, allowing it to lay cables with incredible speed and precision.
e brains behind the machine
Tesmec’s eet of chainsaw trenchers feature a suite of advanced software solutions that enhance e ciency, precision, and project management.
At the heart of these innovations is TrenchTronic 5.0, a sophisticated electronic control that o ers electronic control over digging pressure, fully automatic operation, and a remote diagnostic system.
By optimising depth control and trajectory management, TrenchTronic 5.0 boosts productivity, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimising errors.
Complementing the TrenchTronic 5.0 is the TrenchIntel, a 3D-GPS automatic guidance system. is high precision guidance system allows automatic depth and grade control, autosteering to a prede ned path, pass optimisation and eet control.
Tesmec is con dent this system outperforms traditional methods like laser systems, stakes, and string lines, by saving time and money from preventing undercuts, overcuts, and incorrect excavations.
Tesmec’s Re.M (remote monitoring) system is another feature that further elevates operational e ciency.
By providing real-time data on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, Re.M enables 24/7 eet monitoring. is approach optimises maintenance schedules and enhances service response, allowing technicians to diagnose issues and prepare resources before arriving on-site. ese features are rounded out by Tesmec’s SmartTracker, which addresses the industry’s need for accurate as-built drawings. is system automatically records GNSS positions of the trenching tool in real-time (RTK) or for post-processing (PPK), creating detailed records of installed underground utilities.
By eliminating the need for manual survey stakeouts, SmartTracker reduces project timelines and costs, while ensuring precise documentation.
Tesmec is pairing its robust machinery with state-of-the-art technological features to create a paragon of trenching excellence. From underground mapping to project study to trenching machinery and after service customer support, Tesmec positions itself as an end-to-end solution provider. And with a growing presence in Australia, the company has many more exciting developments around the corner.
Images:
Tesmec
The Tesmec 975 EVO Chainsaw.
Tesmec chainsaw trenchers deliver precise and consistent cuts.
integrated bypass maintains production during isolation
Dual Leak-Tight Seals
Double Block & Bleed Isolation
Monitored Zero-Energy Zone
Isolated Pipeline
e importance of integrity and maintenance for water pipelines
Australia has more than 400,000km of water pipelines crisscrossing the country in many di erent ways to ensure fundamental access to life’s most precious resource.
The Australian Pipeliner chatted to Pipe Tek’s resident water pipeline expert about the essential maintenance techniques that ensure the longevity and reliability of this infrastructure.
Water pipelines are vital infrastructure assets, delivering life’s most vital resource to communities, industries and agriculture. But behind the seamless ow of water lies a complex network of systems that must be constantly maintained to prevent failures, optimise e ciency, and safeguard public health.
Pipe Tek is a leading pipeline contractor which specialises in the maintenance, inspection and repair of water pipelines. e company’s chief operating o cer, and resident water pipeline expert, Taddam Farrant said hydrotesting, pigging, cleaning and inspection ensure water pipelines remain in optimal condition.
Hygiene at the forefront
According to Farrant, inspection and maintenance of water pipelines is important because – like other forms of transmission pipelines – it’s vital to keep the asset in the best working order possible to maintain ow and keep debris out of the line. Unlike gas, for instance, this includes making sure that all precautions are taken to ensure the water is safe to be consumed or used when it reaches its destination.
“Hygiene is our biggest challenge because bacteria and E. coli can build up as a result of inadequate cleaning and maintenance, and/or water sitting stagnant for too long,” he said.
“When it comes to potable water, it’s important that the product provided to the end user is suitable for consumption and no bacteria is present.
“We also want to do everything we can to make sure the end user isn’t impacted by our operation. Everyone knows how much the interruption to water services can impact their lives for a few hours let alone days.”
Farrant said common issues they hear about from water pipeline operators routinely relate to sediment and operating pressure.
“When engaging with water asset owners, utilities and councils scale build up and reduced ow are issues that come up in pretty much every conversation,” he said.
“Sediment coming out of potable water pipelines where it shouldn’t be is also a relatively common problem we see as well.”
Cleaning, inspecting and testing
Farrant said a key consideration to keep in mind when testing, inspecting and cleaning water pipelines is ange management.
“Correct ange management prior to testing ensures the test won’t be a ected by issues like leaking ange faces or valve assemblies,” he said.
“ e pipe should also be cleaned using foam pigs before being ushed with water to remove debris and residue. is assists with reducing turbidity to commission potable water pipelines.
“All scour valves and low point drains have to be bled and dropped out to avoid debris sitting in the line, and contamination in bacterial results.”
He said selecting the correct cleaning method is dependent on what’s being transported, such as potable water, slurry, tailings, wastewater or seawater.
“Potable water requires a more stringent cleaning and maintenance method. is includes chemical dosing, pipeline pigging and ushing, and bacterial testing to comply with standards.
“ e other lines would be dependent on what the client is trying to achieve. at’s where Pipe Tek’s expertise can tailor a custom solution for the asset owner.”
Prioritising safety
While the risks are di erent, safety is still paramount when working on and around water pipelines.
“Safety precautions always need to be taken when undergoing any testing, pigging and commissioning of pipelines,” Farrant said.
“One of the main risks is associated with the pressure which can build up in the pipeline. We also take careful steps to mitigate the risk of damaging the pipeline, all while protecting personnel on site and in the surrounding areas.
“We always set up strict exclusion zones and use calibrated instrumentation, as well as having policies and procedures in place to make sure we meet the highest levels of safety.
Access to the best
Farrant said that Pipe Tek’s exclusive partnership with Enduro Pipeline Services gives them access to best-in-class cleaning equipment.
“Our partnership with Enduro de nitely gives us an edge when it comes to our contracting capabilities because they manufacture the best cleaning tools in the world,” he said.
“Enduro’s products can be custom manufactured to suit the application required for the end user, and all cleaning tools can be used or modi ed to run in water pipelines.”
As part of the partnership between the two companies, a range of Enduro pipelines products – including an extensive range of cleaning pigs – are regularly shipped direct from the company’s base and manufacturing facility in Oklahoma, US to Pipe Tek’s headquarters in Brisbane.
“We recently received our largest order of stock from the US and we are as well-equipped as anyone in the country for pipeline pigs,” Farrant said.
“We supply Enduro products Australia-wide, meaning utilities or asset owners can source the pigs from us and supply their own crews or subcontractors to utilise them on their infrastructure.”
Crew members at the site of a water pipeline project Pipe Tek completed for Pensar.
Maintaining e ciency with an alternative lifeline
All projects aim to maintain e ciency, which engineers measure in terms of volume and plant downtime.
During an unplanned ood emergency, quick action is crucial, as operational delays can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in production losses. With over 38 years of experience manufacturing exible pipelines, Crusader Hose o ers an alternative lifeline to traditional methods, signi cantly reducing costs and saving time –customised lay at hose and reel systems.
More recently, a mine in Western Australia found itself in an unplanned ood emergency and urgently needed to move large amounts of water over 4km. Traditionally relying on conventional poly pipe for a temporary pipeline, the mining engineers understood that time was crucial, and they could not a ord to wait for an HDPE pipeline to be installed.
e expert team at Crusader Hose consulted with the mining engineers and made the recommendation to use e Waterlord Dewatering System, for its heavy-duty and reliable lay at hose and the Hamersley reel system to ensure quick deployment.
With its compact design, the Waterlord Dewatering System, consisting of 4000m of 12inch Waterlord, easy-to- t ange couplings and Boa clamps, and a Hamersley reel drive unit, was despatched on a single truck. Once onsite, the pipeline was easily deployed by three operators over two days, a fraction of the time it would have taken to lay out poly. ousands of megalitres were pumped from the ooded pit with highpressure e ciency over the week it took to safely resume production.
Relieved at the speed at which the mining project could continue, the engineers hailed it as a lifesaver. Seeing the bene ts of using a exible hose solution in an emergency, albeit temporary, situation, the mine is planning to use Waterlord for more permanent pipeline projects in the future.
Water-handling systems like this are highly adaptable and can be e ectively used in other industries, including construction and large civil works projects.
“Our lay at hose systems are incredibly versatile, capable of being applied across a range
of scenarios and applications – its potential is huge,” Crusader Hose Managing Director Francois Steverlynck told e Australian Pipeliner Able to withstand high pressures and rough handling, Waterlord large diameter lay at hose can move water up to 500L a second.
Images: Crusader Hose
The Hammersley Reel System in action.
Hamersley Reels deployed to site.
It is made by rst weaving a high-tenacity polyester textile reinforcement and then completing the manufacturing process with a thermoplastic polyurethane through-the-weave extrusion. It comes in a range of diameters from 40mm to 305mm. Its exterior is abrasionresistant when appropriately handled, making it suitable for the rugged terrain typical to mine sites. Although manufactured in standard 200m lengths, the continuous-length hose is available in longer, customisable lengths.
e exible nature of Waterlord contributes to the ease of handling, whereas the speed of deployment is due to the e ciency of the Hamersley reel system.
e Hamersley reel system comprises reels and a reel drive unit (RDU). Up to 200m of 12-inch Waterlord is compactly wound onto the 2.4m reel, ready to be picked up by the RDU. With hydraulic couplers able to connect to a variety of plants, the RDU can deploy and retrieve kilometres of pipeline safely and e ciently. e system’s merits include the reduction of the manual labour, and minimising occupational, health and safety issues.
It perfectly complements the Waterlord hose system.
Crusader Hose is committed to partnering with the pipeline industry to o er and demonstrate an alternative lay at hose and reel system solution for dewatering projects where traditional methods can or can’t be used. ese systems o er many bene ts: increased e ciency, transportation and labour cost savings, and less downtime.
Recognising the diversity of mining projects, the company o ers tailored solutions to meet individual dewatering needs.
“We believe that exible lay at hose and reel systems can o er signi cant advantages to the traditional methods currently in use,” Steverlynck said.
“We are eager to assist mining engineers in identifying the optimal solution for their dewatering requirements during unplanned emergencies as preparedness and rapid response are crucial.
“Apart from emergency use, we are con dent that lay at hose can be the best t for many other dewatering projects.”
For more information, visit crusaderhose.com.au
Waterlord lay at hose.
Six questions to ask to get the most out of your emissions management program
Bridger Photonics provides aerial methane scans and methane emissions data for operators across the globe. Using its experience with operators large and small, the company has compiled a list of helpful questions to guide conversations with emissions detection technology providers.
What is the emission rate detection sensitivity and probability of detection in your technology?
Emission rate detection sensitivity refers to the smallest methane emission rate that a technology can reliably detect. A complete detection sensitivity statement would be an emission rate paired with a probability of detection (PoD), such as three kilograms per hour with a 90 per cent PoD. Emission rate detection sensitivity indicates the capability of a technology to accurately detect emissions of a given size.
It’s crucial to engage quali ed researchers and third-party experts to assess the actual capabilities of a technology. Ideally, detection sensitivity and PoD claims should be rigorously supported by peer-reviewed research produced by or in conjunction with reputable third-party academic research institutions, or another third party.
Researchers at these institutions study the performance of emissions detection technologies through either controlled releases, or better yet blindly testing technologies in action without their knowing, called ‘fully-blind’ testing. Be aware that controlled release studies are often performed under limited or ideal conditions, and each detection technology has environmental conditions in which it performs better or worse. So, depending on the timing and conditions present in controlled release studies, the results might not represent performance in real-world conditions.
Does your technology o er the ability to ag emission events as persistent or intermittent?
A technology that di erentiates between persistent and intermittent emissions can provide important context to a detection event. is data often helps operators determine whether or not they should expect to nd a repair event corresponding to a given emission.
Persistent emissions often correspond to fugitive emissions that require repair. On the other hand, intermittent emissions can correspond to normal operating process emissions. Both are important for understanding and reducing emissions, but a persistent emission often requires a repair crew, while an intermittent emission may potentially be addressed with planned retro ts or infrastructure upgrades.
Does your technology o er quanti cation of emission rates?
Determining the emission rate can be of critical importance for several reasons. First, quanti cation helps repair crews know which emissions to tackle rst, helping them prioritise the most impactful repairs. It can even provide information to help identify the source of an emission and provide information that can help you understand the cause of an emission. Quanti cation is also an important element for understanding emissions intensity (the emissions output relative to the amount of natural gas produced) or to calculate an emissions inventory.
To develop a systematic understanding of emission sources and the types of equipment that generate the largest emissions, quanti cation can be a useful tool. is way, the equipment source paired with the emission rate can aid in determining which operational adjustments or equipment retro ts will generate the greatest emissions reduction as fast as possible.
How accurately does your technology pinpoint methane emission sources?
Simply knowing that emissions are coming from a site or general area of operation can be inadequate for e cient ground crew follow-up. Pinpointing emission sources, known as localisation, ensures
crews know which piece of equipment needs attention, what tools are needed for mitigation, or whether the solution can be handled remotely by operations or requires a ground crew.
Localisation can also help with understanding equipment-attributed emission inventories, identifying systemic equipment issues, and planning upgrades or retro ts to reduce your emissions in an informed and strategic way.
What
span does your technology scan?
A comprehensive understanding of the emissions from the majority of your assets is critical for e ective management and developing reduction strategies. However, the goal isn't simply to cover as many sites as quickly as possible; instead, it's essential to balance site coverage with su cient emission rate detection sensitivity to ensure meaningful data is collected.
Ideally, you’re looking for a technology that can cover large areas or distances quickly and e ciently, yet also provide the detection sensitivity that your operations require, and with the localisation accuracy that you need.
When and how will I receive my data?
Timeliness of alerts and emission data is essential for operational e ciency and to address serious emissions quickly. Consider the information you are hoping to receive and what your plan of action will be from the data. It is also important to establish whether you will be informed of large detection events before receiving the full report, whether the data will be organised, and whether the data will be compatible with your system.
Aligning with your methane emissions management needs
By asking the right questions, you can ensure that the technology you choose not only meets your sensitivity requirements, but also provides essential context around emission events, accurately quanti es emissions, pinpoints sources e ectively, and delivers timely and actionable data.
ese considerations will empower you to make informed decisions, enhance operational e ciency, and ultimately drive meaningful reductions in emissions.
Bridger Photonics LiDAR technology is capable of scanning hundreds of sites or kilometres of pipeline in a single day.
DM Civil Guarantees Pipeline Construction Performance
DM Civil has been providing Australia civil contracting and pipeline construction solutions since 1976.
Our core principles (Diversity, Motivation, and Commitment) are at the heart of everything we do. Our honest, hands-on approach and ability to ‘get the job done’ has earned us client loyalty and respect from our peers.
Pipelines are the cornerstone of DM Civil’s business and we are known as one of Western Australia’s most experienced pipeline contractors. Bringing a combination of the right resources, effective construction techniques and client collaboration, we will successfully complete any project regardless of size, type or location.
DM Civil’s experience crosses oil and gas, water, wastewater and mining pipelines and infrastructure, and general civil construction. Our large workforce is complemented by a self-maintained fleet of earthmoving plant and equipment, as well as specialised pipeline construction equipment including our in-house Tesmec trenching machines.
DM Civil also provides a range of trenchless technology solutions for spaces where minimal disturbance is required. This means we can provide construction methods that are innovative, efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly compared to traditional excavation methods.
Through our collaborative and innovative approaches, we can afford our clients the flexibility they need to ensure the easy, seamless delivery of every project.
When you partner with DM Civil, you get guaranteed performance and a passion that runs through every member of our team. Get in touch for solutions on your project.
Headline speakers include:
Wake Country Chair & SVP Integrated Gas Australia Shell
Phaedra Deckart Chief Executive Officer Solstice Energy
Evatt Research Fellow, Net Zero for the Fossil Fuel Sector University of Oxford
Mark Hatfield Managing Director, Australia Chevron Australia
David Berman Commercial Director ExxonMobil Australia
Jane Norman Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer Amplitude Energy
Stephen Harty Chief Executive Officer, GLNG Operations Santos GLNG
Susan MacDonald Shadow Minister for Resources Australian Senate
Brett Woods Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer Beach Energy
Nicholls Chief Executive Officer Strike Energy
Darren Stevenson Chief Executive Officer Senex Energy
Matthew Clemow Group Manager Gas Markets & Systems Operations Australian Emergy Market Operator (AEMO)
Adam Watson Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director APA Group
Ryusuke Shida Research Director, Ph.D Mitsubishi Research Institute
Partners: Sponsor:
Cecile
Alice
Senator
Stuart
Breaking the misconceptions of seawater hydrotesting corrosion
Oil and gas companies, tank manufacturers, and shipyards in o shore or coastal environments face a common dilemma – seawater hydrotesting corrosion.
Savcor poses the question to the industry – should oil and gas companies, tank manufacturers, and shipyards in o shore settings save money by using the abundant seawater around them for hydrotesting or ballasting and risk aggressive corrosion inside their vessels?
Or should they pay more for fresh water and avoid exposing their metals to an extra corrosive environment? Cortec® o ers a third option for this false dilemma by recommending the use of corrosion inhibitors developed speci cally for use in seawater.
Corrosion inhibitors for seawater
EcoLine® VpCI®-642 and VpCI-645 are two biobased corrosion inhibitor products that can be added to seawater for hydrotesting tanks, pipelines, re sprinklers, and a variety of other components. ese corrosion inhibiting products dissolve readily in water for easy application and inhibit corrosion at a low dose (0.3-0.75 per cent by volume for EcoLine VpCI-642 and 0.5-1 per cent by volume for VpCI-645).
After the hydrotest seawater is drained, the vessel should be rinsed with fresh water treated with 0.5 per cent VpCI-609 (by weight) for posthydrotesting protection. EcoLine VpCI-642 and VpCI-645 can also be added to seawater in ballast tanks of ships and o shore platforms to protect against water bottom corrosion.
Environmental bene ts
For those concerned about the environment, EcoLine VpCI-642 and VpCI-645 have several advantages. First, they are both USDA certi ed biobased products that contain 93 per cent USDA certi ed biobased content, relying heavily on renewable raw materials.
Secondly, they are e ective replacements for corrosion inhibitor formulations based on nitrite, chromate, or hydrazine. While local requirements should always be checked before disposal, EcoLine VpCI-642 and VpCI-645 are more likely to be compliant than corrosion inhibitors of the past.
Corrosion inhibiting oat coat
Another corrosion inhibitor option for seawater hydrotesting is M-645.
is product is an oil-based oat coat suited for use in tanks. It rides on the surface of the water, coating all metal surfaces with a water-displacing lm as the seawater is raised and lowered.
is behaviour also makes it a nice option for ship ballast tanks, which need to be repeatedly lled with seawater and emptied over time after the vessel is hydrotested and put into service. Since M-645 oats on the surface of the water, it does not contaminate the ballast water, allowing for normal discharge procedures.
Start hydrotesting with seawater
With oceans covering more than two-thirds of the globe, it is important to have seawater as a hydrotesting option for the many pipeline and shipbuilding projects in process. Cortec corrosion inhibitors make that economical option viable by protecting against the corrosive e ects of seawater.
is product is available through Savcor Products Australia in Australia and New Zealand.
Another corrosion inhibitor option for seawater hydrotesting is M-645.
O shore excellence onshore
Commercial Marine Group has delivered a complex subsea pipeline in South-East Queensland.
Pipeline construction is an incredibly nuanced area, with di erent situations calling for di erent methodologies. At a glance, this might look like overland pipes running through a vast landscape, or microtunnelling beneath an urban environment. But when you can’t go over it and you can’t go under it, sometimes there’s no choice but to go through it.
And that’s where Commercial Marine Group (CMG) comes in.
With its origins in diving operations, CMG has grown over a decade to become a marine construction company 66 people strong, with teams of engineers, mariners and divers all over the country.
e business boasts engineering and project management capabilities, allowing it to o er
crafted and innovative marine construction services from the design and feasibility stage, right through to delivery and inspection.
One of its most recent e orts was the construction of a nearly 1km underwater sewer pipeline along the riverbed of a busy Queensland waterway.
“ e project was for the construction of a 630mm diameter pipeline that ran through the river,” CMG Engineering Director Nick Ayres told e Australian Pipeliner
“Our installation approach adapted specialist o shore techniques to a high- ow, turbid river environment in a congested urban area. e result was a robust pipeline design paired with a cost-e ective e cient installation method.”
To deliver the project, CMG utilised the S-lay method, where lengths of pipe are welded, inspected, and collared with concrete blocks on board a pipelay barge. As the barge moves forward, the welded pipe gradually feeds through a specialised ramp, called a stinger, into the river. CMG’s team of divers inspected each section of pipe as it was submerged, ensuring a seamless installation.
At the same time, CMG constructed and oated 80m lengths of pipe on each side of the river which served as connection points for the underwater pipeline.
The sewer pipeline was installed via the S-lay method.
The pipeline was welded on board the barge.
In addition to the challenges associated with this delivery method, the project had tides, current, and river tra c to contend with.
“We were initially asked to design to a high owing current. We put our own current ow measuring device in to collect real-time data and were able to adopt much lower ows in the temporary works design,” Ayres said.
“So instead of designing for six knots, we could design for one and a half knots, which is what the current is. is made the construction process a lot simpler.
“To work around river tra c, the barge progressed in 40m movements supported by ve anchor points. e barge’s position could be adjusted in relation to these anchors with the winch systems. We progressed section by section, which meant other vessels were able to pass by without issue.”
Another bene t of this method was that it allowed the CMG team to be incredibly accurate with the pipeline’s installation.
“GPS navigation system on the barge allowed us to monitor position and tolerance as we progressed and make any necessary adjustments to our position. is meant that even in maximum ows in the current, we were still able to continue progressing without compromising alignment,” Ayres said.
CMG Project Engineer Oliver Beechener, who was out on the barge every day, described the excitement on deck.
“As each day progressed, you’d have moments where it was quite relaxed while we were moving anchors and putting blocks on – and things like that,” he said.
“ ere were three critical moments in each day, which were bringing the pipe on board, and then the two movements of the pipeline.
“During those moments we were all on radio comms – it was quite a high-pressure situation. And then after that, while we were completing the welds, people were able to catch their breath again, and then we would ramp up again for the next movement.
“One thing that stuck out to me was that everyone on the barge had a role. Everyone was delivering their task and was critical to moving forward each day.”
is degree of precision didn’t materialise overnight, it was the product of a meticulous design and engineering process that took place long before the barge hit the water.
Ayres said the team utilised workshops, animations of methods, scale models of equipment and processes, and leveraged
expert pipe installation and vessel stability analysis to explore and re ne installation options.
“ is process led to the development of a bespoke pipelay barge and stinger, speci cally designed for the project,” he said.
“ ese techniques allow us to better engage with our partners and work crew, nd the optimal solution for any project, and show exactly how it will work before we get to site.”
For the CMG team, seeing their hard work pay o always makes for a memorable moment.
“ e rst manoeuvre we made with the pipe was quite a challenging one, but we knew the methodology was tested,” Beechener said.
“ e rst time the block moved on the stinger was a bit like ‘Okay, this works. We’ve got a working methodology, and the
barge is handling how we expect’. It was a very exciting day.”
In early December, the CMG team successfully handed the completed pipeline over to the asset owner after hydrotesting.
Close collaboration among stakeholders allowed the project to be completed within 11 months and only eight weeks on the river. e project was completed without incident, and with no disruption to river users, the local community, or the asset owner.
“If the project is deemed di cult or complex – technically or environmentally –then it’s exactly the sort of project that CMG is keen to take on,” Ayres said.
“We’re here to solve these di cult problems for our clients. Challenge is our competitive edge. CMG prides itself in mastering the complexities of marine and coastal construction solutions.”
CMG takes pride in mastering the complexities of marine and coastal construction solutions.
kwik-ZIP celebrates 25 years in business
This year kwik-ZIP will celebrate its 25th anniversary. From humble beginnings in 2000, the company’s centraliser and spacer systems have grown to dominate a wide range of applications across many di erent industries both in Australia and internationally.
And while the future, with all its possibilities, is exciting, it’s also worth celebrating the past. Last year saw kwikZIP make signi cant strides in strengthening its business across the globe.
e company began 2024 with surety, relocating its WA head o ce to a new premises in Bayswater, just outside of Perth’s CBD. e move ensures the company is strategically positioned to service its customers, while also allowing for increased inventory to be held on the west coast of Australia.
kwik-ZIP General Manager Paul Je reys said the company has an ‘open door’ policy at its o ce.
“Existing or prospective customers are always welcome to drop in and say hello at our new facility,” he told e Australian Pipeliner.
It’s the latest marker on the map for kwik-ZIP, which also boasts warehouse facilities in Sydney, the UK and Texas, as well as stockists throughout Australia, the US, the UK and New Zealand.
Last year again saw kwik-ZIP products used on a range of projects across Australia and around the globe.
kwik-ZIP’s HD and HDX/HDXT spacer system series are providing the pipeline sector with simple, cost-e ective, and high-quality solutions.
Such was the case when utilities infrastructure expert Rob Carr turned to kwik-ZIP for its project in Gosnells, Western Australia.
Here, kwik-ZIP HDXT-103 spacers were installed to facilitate the slip-lining of a mild steel cement mortar lined (MSCL) wastewater pressure main into a reinforced concrete jacking pipe. is pipe ran underneath a rail line as part of a wastewater pressure main realignment.
Rob Carr Project Manager Marie Piette saluted kwik-ZIP’s innovative spacers.
“ e MSCL pipes insertion is making good progress despite a challenging environment, with production e ciency notably enhanced by the simplicity of installation of the kwik-ZIP spacers,” she said.
e simple and e cient installation process did not require any special tools or any requirement to pre-wrap the pipe.
Pezzimenti Trenchless was also among those praising kwik-ZIP’s products.
“Pezzimenti Trenchless has been using kwikZIP spacers for slip-lining installations for many years,” Managing Director Joe Pezzimenti said.
In one project, kwik-ZIP HDX-90 spacers were installed to facilitate the slip-lining of an 813mm cement lined steel water main into a steel encasing pipe by Pezzimenti Trenchless.
“Whether the carrier pipe is plastic, glass reinforced pipe (GRP), or heavy weight steel, kwik-ZIP has a spacer to do the job,” Joe said.
Images: kwik-ZIP
The HDXT-58W on the Trans Mountain pipeline project.
“ eir technical support and excellent customer service make using kwik-ZIP spacers an easy decision.”
In August, it was announced that kwik-ZIP’s HD series has been successfully appraised against the Water Services Association of Australia’s (WSAA) product speci cation for casing spacers (WSA PS-324). With this latest approval, the HD joined the HDX and HDXT as kwik-ZIP products certi ed to this standard.
kwik-ZIP products are also approved for use within many utilities’ infrastructure, including Melbourne Retail Water Association, SouthEast Queensland’s Infrastructure and Materials (IPAM) list, Sydney Water and the WA Water Corporation. All products are certi ed by the Australian Water Quality Centre (AWQC) for use in contact with drinking water.
kwik-ZIP also played a role in delivering a major global project, with its spacers utilised on a speci c section of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project in Canada.
A contractor turn to kwik-ZIP to help complete a horizontal directional drilling component of the project. Here, two pull-back casing sections needed to be protected at the entry and exit points of the run.
“Due to the angle of the slope, the contractor was concerned about potential damage to the casing and engaged kwik-ZIP to provide a tailored solution,” kwik-ZIP Managing Director Jason Linaker said.
e solution was to use multiple instances of kwik-ZIP’s HDXT-58W spacers and HDXT load inserts, which safely spread the load of the pipe and resulted in a successful installation.
“With the help of our products, the contractor completing the installation of this particular section of the pipeline was able to overcome their challenges and complete the section without any issues,” Linaker said.
As well as seeing its products involved on major projects globally, kwik-ZIP also showcased its range at a number of events throughout 2024.
In Australia, the company exhibited at OzWater24 in Melbourne and followed that up with a booth at the Australian Drilling Industry Association showcase in Perth. As a Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) member, kwik-ZIP also exhibited at the 2024 WIOA conference in both Bendigo and Tamworth.
Most recently, kwik-ZIP also exhibited at the 2024 No-Dig Live, which took place in the UK.
Forging ahead
With another strong year under its belt, kwik-ZIP is looking ahead to 2025.
Je reys said the company will continue to support its loyal customer base by ensuring its products continue to deliver signi cant cost, time and operational advantages. is will help ensure kwik-ZIP maintains its status as the spacer and centraliser product of choice in the Australian and international markets.
The HDXT-58W on the Trans Mountain pipeline project.
DM Civil wins industry award for gas pipeline construction excellence
After building pipelines for a range of applications for more than 40 years, DM Civil has cemented its position as an expert contractor in Australia’s pipeline construction sector.
DM Civil’s place as an e ective contractor in Australia’s gas pipeline sector has been con rmed over the past few years, with a very successful 2024.
Since 1976, the Perth-based rm has been providing tailored, sustainable civil contracting solutions to many of Australia’s leading companies.
DM Civil provides head contractor capabilities in all aspects of pipeline and civil construction for a variety of applications, including oil and gas infrastructure, water and wastewater infrastructure and mining.
In addition to a wide range of self-maintained earthmoving equipment and a large WA based workforce, the company boasts niche, in-house trenchless pipeline construction solutions, encompassing slurry shield microtunnelling, auger boring, guided boring and pilot boring, as well as in-house concrete construction and SMP capabilities.
DM Civil also has a Tesmec trenching machine eet at its disposal that, along with a large WA workforce, is willing to travel any distance and go the extra mile to ensure project success.
Over the past ve years, DM Civil has been gaining a strong foothold in the gas pipeline sector within WA.
e company’s involvement in an awardwinning project in 2023 highlighted its capabilities in the sector, and marked it as a reliable contractor in a niche market.
e East Perth Power Station (EPPS) pipeline project represents ATCO Gas Australia’s largest
pipeline project in Australia to date, and a signi cant natural gas pipeline construction project for DM Civil.
e project, valued at over $18 million, saw the construction of a 7.5km high-pressure steel gas pipeline to AS/NZS 2885 standards through Perth. e scale, complexity, and timeline showcased the capability of DM Civil’s project management, innovative techniques, and technical capabilities.
“Our company has been building pipelines for over 40 years for a range of applications, including for gas transmission on occasion,” DM Civil Project Manager Jonathon Tognela said.
“But in the last ve years we have managed to get a strong foothold in this area in WA, particularly working with ATCO.”
Challenges and complexities
Tognela highlighted the EPPS project as the ideal example of DM Civil’s capabilities.
e project certainly presented a unique set of challenges and saw DM Civil’s team successfully navigate simultaneous operations with other thirdparty contractors, intricate stakeholder management, and complex environmental factors. Key challenges included:
• Simultaneous projects in Bayswater light industrial area: e team worked alongside several major infrastructure projects, including the Tonkin Gap project, Bayswater Evolve project, Melconnx project and another ATCO gas pipeline project, all within a less than 1km radius.
• Built-up residential and industrial areas: e pipeline installation traversed heavily populated areas, including narrow suburban streets, major roads like Alexander Drive and Grand Promenade, and industrial zones in Bayswater. Stringent tra c management plans, coordination with local authorities, and innovative construction methodologies were vital to minimising disruptions to businesses and residents.
• Groundwater and contamination issues: A signi cant challenge arose from encountering contaminated groundwater (PFAS) in the Bayswater Light Industrial Area. DM Civil executed major dewatering operations, including 24/7 tankering, to ensure safe disposal of the e uent while keeping the site dry and safe for pipeline construction.
Innovative solutions and techniques
Tognela said the project is the culmination of the wide-ranging experience DM Civil can draw upon as a result of its workforce and history.
DM Civil employed various innovative construction techniques throughout the project, setting a new standard for ATCO and future projects.
• Horizontal directional drilling (HDD): A substantial portion of the pipeline was installed using HDD, particularly through busy intersections like Beaufort Street and Grand Promenade, without disrupting tra c. e use of HDD in built-up suburban areas signi cantly reduced the impact on residents and businesses compared to traditional open excavation methods, which had been designated for a large portion of the pipeline but were not as e cient in comparison to HDD.
• Pilot boring: Pilot boring was utilised to install sections of the pipeline where HDD or open excavation was not feasible. is method allowed for accurate, trenchless installation of pipes beneath existing water mains and roads while also being cost e ective compared to other trenchless methods of pipe installation. DM Civil’s in-house trenchless technology department carried out multiple bores across the project, expediting the works and improving third-party asset protection outcomes.
The East Perth Power Station Pipeline project was valued at over $18 million.
• Pipe welding mid-pullback: To avoid disturbing well-established trees and verges in suburban areas, DM Civil implemented an e ective solution of welding pipe sections midpullback during HDD, reducing the size of excavations and protecting the landscape. ese innovative approaches not only mitigated project risks but also saved time and reduced costs, showcasing DM Civil’s commitment to delivering high-quality cost-e ective solutions for its clients.
Excellence rewarded
In October, DM Civil claimed the 2024 WA Earth Awards for Excellence in Civil Construction for the $10-30 million project value category for its work on the EPPS pipeline project.
is award marked not only a signi cant achievement for the company, but was also a testament to the innovation, quality, and meticulous project management that de ne DM Civil’s operations.
Leadership
e success of the EPPS project can be attributed to the strong leadership and teamwork demonstrated by DM Civil’s project management team.
A notable aspect of this project was the ‘lead from the front’ approach, where the project manager was on-site for the majority of the project, ensuring seamless communication and problem-solving in real time.
is hands-on leadership style created a motivated and engaged workforce, which proved crucial in overcoming the project’s complexities.
e project also provided opportunities for the further development and training of DM Civil’s already very capable workforce, with multiple leading hands promoted to supervisory roles and gaining valuable experience in gas pipeline construction.
e project engineer for this contract, deeply involved in all aspects of the project, was later promoted to project manager for subsequent gas pipeline projects, highlighting the developmental impact of the project on DM Civil’s workforce.
Legacy
e EPPS project leaves behind a legacy of innovation, e ciency, and excellence in civil construction.
DM Civil’s success in managing this complex project has established the company
as a major contender in the gas pipeline construction industry.
e innovative methodologies developed during this project, such as the pilot boring technique, have since been adopted for future pipeline projects, further cementing DM Civil’s reputation for delivering high-quality solutions.
Additionally, the strong working relationship forged with ATCO during this project has led to DM Civil securing multiple pipeline contracts with the company, showcasing the long-term value created through a collaborative successful project delivery.
As DM Civil continues to build on this foundation, the lessons learned and breakthroughs achieved on this project will inspire future advancements, and further cements the company as a leader in civil construction and setting new standards for the pipeline industry.
“We are continuing to make headway into the gas pipeline construction market and looking for opportunities to showcase what we can do, while continuing to deliver our business-as-usual projects, which are typically water and wastewater pipelines and infrastructure,” Tognela said.
INDUCTABEND INDUCTABEND
Helix
Custom
Billion-dollar project lays the foundation
The
schedule.
Major progress has been made to support 40,0000 new Western Sydney residents with the $1.2 billion Upper South Creek advanced water recycling centre (AWRC) project taking shape at Kemps Creek.
e nal section of over 40km of pipelines was o cially laid towards the end of 2024, enabling the discharge of high-quality treated water to ow to the Nepean River to help improve waterway health.
Flows from the secondary brine pipeline will enable discharges from the AWRC to Lansdowne and beyond via Sydney Water’s existing network.
e pipeline completion marks a major milestone in the state-of-the-art AWRC project, which will soon provide wastewater services to more residents than the population of Canberra.
Sydney Water Executive General Manager of Infrastructure Delivery Nicholle Sparkes said the AWRC will play a critical role in servicing the Aerotropolis, and broader housing and industrial growth in the area.
“It’s very exciting to see Western Sydney changing quickly, and that’s why this milestone is so important, as we work to ensure every new home and business has access to essential wastewater services,” she said.
e $300 million pipeline created over 750 jobs and the nal pipe was laid around six months ahead of schedule with over 2000 homes door knocked as part of the project.
“Sydney Water, in collaboration with our delivery partner John Holland, was able to reach this milestone so quickly because the local community recognised the importance of the work Sydney Water is undertaking,” Sparkes said.
“ e community is a critical stakeholder in our planning, and Sydney Water appreciates their continued trust as we deliver this pipeline and other future key projects.
“Sydney Water also values the e orts of our delivery partners, and the individuals involved in constructing this project, and we look forward to delivering more outstanding outcomes on Sydney Water’s future pipeline of major projects.”
e AWRC will be one of the most advanced wastewater recovery facilities in the Southern Hemisphere and will treat up to 35 megalitres of wastewater – the equivalent of 14 Olympic swimming pools – each day as part of Stage 1.
e plant has been provisioned to enable a future capacity increase as part of Stage 2, which will enable treatment of 70 megalitres of wastewater each day.
Delivered in partnership with John Holland, this project marks Sydney Water’s largest infrastructure investment in Western Sydney, positioning the region for sustainable growth and long-term water security.
A changing landscape and unprecedented challenges
Sparkes spoke about the challenges facing Sydney and the surrounding region, and how Sydney Water has a plan to tackle them.
She also spoke about Sydney Water’s plans for 2025 as the utilities company seeks to enhance a 136-year-old water network.
Images: Sydney Water
pipeline created over 750 jobs and the nal pipe was laid around six months ahead of
The AWRC will be one of the most advanced wastewater recovery facilities in the Southern Hemisphere.
The nal section of over 40km of pipelines on the project was o cially laid towards the end of 2024.
“For 136-years, Sydney Water has been the lifeblood of an evolving city, ensuring everyone across Sydney, the Illawarra, and the Blue Mountains has reliable access to world-class water services,” Sparkes said.
“ rough decades of change, we’ve maintained and optimised our aging network, balancing e ciency with a ordability to keep household bills low for millions of people.
“But the landscape has changed and as our city faces unprecedented challenges, the pressure on our network is clear.”
e last few years have tested Sydney Water’s systems in extraordinary ways.
“Climate change and extreme weather such as record droughts, bush res, and oods have exposed the vulnerabilities of our network which was con gured for a di erent time,” Sparkes said.
“ e urgent need to support a rapidly growing population, and service new housing in green eld areas, has also pushed our existing capacity to its limits.
“It’s undeniable, our infrastructure needs signi cant renewal to keep up with today’s demands and to prepare for those of tomorrow.”
Recognising the scale and complexity of this challenge, Sydney Water has developed a new
long term capital and operational plan to guide the way forward.
“ is plan gives us a clear roadmap for the necessary infrastructure that will keep our water services sustainable and resilient all the way through to 2050—all while supporting the NSW Government’s housing priorities,” Sparkes said.
“By decentralising our water and wastewater systems and disrupting the west-to-east ow, we aim to move away from a heavy reliance on a few key assets.
“ is includes building new infrastructure and reusing water, an approach that helps avoid expensive upgrades but also strengthens our resilience, supports healthier waterways, and reduces long-term costs.”
Sparkes stated that building this future is not without its costs.
“We propose to spend $26 billion over the next ve years to maintain daily operations and ensure long-term sustainability.
“Looking ahead to the next decade, we carefully evaluated several investment options and landed on a $34 billion plan that balances resilience with a ordability for our customers in an increasingly complex environment.”
Over the next 12 months, Sydney Water will advance several major infrastructure projects underscoring the company’s commitment to enhancing the 136-year-old network.
ese include ongoing design and construction e orts for the $1.5 billion North West treatment hub, the $1 billion Upper South Creek networks program, and the $838 million upgrade and augmentation of the Prospect pretreatment plant.
Additionally, the $1.2 billion advanced wastewater recycling centre servicing the new Aerotropolis, is set to reach its completion and commissioning phases in mid-2025, marking a signi cant milestone in infrastructure delivery.
“Sydney Water’s journey is de ned by resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the communities we serve,” Sparkes said.
“ e challenges we face are signi cant, but they also inspire opportunities for groundbreaking solutions.
“By embracing change, we are not only addressing today’s needs but also reshaping the future, delivering essential services that adapt to our city’s evolving demands.
“Our commitment is to create a better life with world-class water services now and for the future, because tomorrow’s water starts today.”
The pipeline completion marks a major milestone in the state-ofthe-art AWRC project.
Intro
ADGO conference to set a course for gas industry through ‘uncharted waters’
The Australian Domestic Gas Outlook conference brings together the who’s who of the industry, with the aim of shaping the future of gas in Australia.
As the Australian gas sector enters uncharted waters, a national conference will bring stakeholders together to set a course for success.
Australia has a number of major gas infrastructure initiatives in the works, including new gas import terminals, pipeline expansions and new pipelines.
With gas supply issues high on the agenda, calls have been made for less market intervention from the government to encourage greater investment in gas infrastructure and supply.
Entering uncharted waters
e latest annual east coast report from independent energy consultancy EnergyQuest, East Coast Gas Outlook 2024, found that the outlook for east coast gas is now entering ‘uncharted waters’.
“EnergyQuest has been forecasting gas supply shortfalls in the east coast market for several years now, the East Coast Gas Outlook sets out in detail the extent of the problem,” EnergyQuest CEO Rick Wilson said.
“Gas supply shortfalls are expected for the east coast and Northern Territory (NT) market as soon as 2026, and with increasing certainty and impact from 2028.”
EnergyQuest’s new report has found that future gas supply issues are even more acute when the seasonal winter peaks of Victoria and NSW are considered.
e consultancy rm predicts that by 2034, LNG imports will be needed to supply more than half of demand in the southern region (NSW/ACT, Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania).
“Pipeline expansions, storage additions and development of reserves will add to supply, but over the medium to longer term, after when the rst gas shortfalls are expected,” Wilkinson said.
Wilkinson said that only an LNG import terminal can add up to 500 terajoules per gas day (TJ/d) of swing capacity and up to 100 petajoules (Pj/a) – which is 20 per cent of the east coast/NT demand – by winter 2026.
“Gas prices are forecast to increase. e projects which add supply will mitigate the high side potential for price increases, and ensure that there will be gas available if required,” he said.
“Gas will not become cheaper from today’s levels.”
e EnergyQuest CEO said the critical factor is potential market intervention again by the government, and price caps.
“ is was done in 2022, but didn’t address the market fundamentals of not enough gas supply to meet demand.
“Intervention and price caps take away the incentives to invest in projects which meet seasonal and peak demand days.”
Setting a course
e Australian Domestic Gas Outlook (ADGO) conference will take place from 31 March to 3 April 2025 at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park.
e event will give those in the industry an opportunity to engage with and hear from senior
Images: ADGO
The ADGO conference will give those in the industry an opportunity to engage with and hear from senior leaders from the length of the gas value chain.
leaders from the length of the gas value chain, including gas producers, pipeline operators, retailers, end-users, regulators and policymakers.
e 2025 edition marks the 12th year of the event, and will play a central role in setting a course for the industry moving forward.
Regal Funds Management’s Senior Energy Analyst James Hood said he is looking forward to the event which comes at an important time for Australia’s gas industry.
“I am very much looking forward to ADGO,” he said.
“I’d like to see industry participants at the conference step up to the plate more and proudly own the fact that they are gas producers.
“You do need to have a social licence to operate, meaning that you need to operate in a safe manner, you need to take ownership of your remediation liabilities, and you need to mitigate your scope 1 and 2 emissions for major facilities by spending money on energy e ciency.
“But regardless of political posturing to garner votes, both sides of Federal parliament understand that the gas industry is a critical element of Australia’s economy.”
e east coast gas market is in a fragile state at the moment, according to Hood, who welcomed existing and planned gas initiatives in the region.
“ ere are a few gas initiatives in place, like the Kurri Kurri gas peaker owned by Snowy Hydro,
APA’s compression expansion of the SWQLD pipeline and MSP pipeline, and Twiggy Forrest’s Port Kembla gas import terminal,” he said.
He also highlighted the Hunter pipeline, now owned by Santos, and the Narrabri gas project, both of which are seeking regulatory approval.
Hood explained most industry participants think that gas peakers will be required to meet the increasing volatility of the ‘duck curve’ in the National Energy Market (NEM) and South West Interconnected System (SWIS), and these gas peakers will be used to support intermittent renewable energy and take advantage of energy arbitrage.
“So having Kurri Kurri in the system should be a good thing,” he said.
“I think APA’s compression expansion is needed to be able to move more gas from Queensland to the Southern States during peak winter periods; so that is also a good thing but won’t solve the problem fully in my view.”
Gas will not become cheaper for Australian consumers, residential or industrial, with the current initiatives in place, Hood said.
“When I was doing Economics 101 at university, I was always taught that, ceteris paribus, price comes down by either increasing supply or decreasing demand.
“So, you either assist the exploration and production entities to bring on new upstream
supply quicker, or you destroy demand by shutting down industrial facilities who are reliant on gas inputs - and if it’s the latter, then that results in the loss of hundreds or thousands of industrial jobs often in more regional locations for hard working Australians.
“Price doesn’t come down by regulating the market with a band-aid price cap, and then providing an exemption to almost every single upstream producer to that price cap anyway.” e regulatory landscape in Australia for bringing upstream gas projects to market is getting longer and more burdensome.
“Additionally, it seems like some activists are weaponising the regulatory framework in Australia to postpone bringing projects to markets, which ends up in higher gas prices for mums and dads,” Hood said.
“ e regulatory framework is in part complicated by the fact that there are both federal and state-by-state policies for gas, which makes it more di cult to bring consistent policy to the whole east coast of Australia.”
e ADGO conference is a key moment in Quest Events’ calendar for 2025. Quest Events is a fast-growing business information and networking event provider, producing timely and relevant conferences, exhibitions and training seminars for industry and government participants alike.
The 2025 edition of ADGO will mark the 12th year of the event.
PNG Expo makes its return
Resources industry players are Papua New Guinea-bound in 2025 for the PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference.
The PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo) will make its longanticipated return to Port Moresby in 2025, attracting all the key players from the Australian and PNG resources industries.
On top of its curated oor plan and stacked speaker conference, the 2025 event takes the backache out of conducting international business by connecting buyers and suppliers in one key location.
Delivering on its promise to be an unmissable industry event, all the attractions across the two-day event will take place in one central location – the Stanley Hotel.
Situated in the commercial and governmental hub of Port Moresby, the Stanley Hotel is conveniently located close to the airport and prioritises the welfare of its guests, o ering a safe and secure stay.
Key exhibitors like Metso, Blackwoods, Sandvik, Dreager, Lincom, and Putzmeister have already locked in their oor space – get in quick to lock in your stand’s location on the oor plan.
TriCab, a premium supplier of highperformance exible cable and accessories, has renewed its sponsorship for 2025.
TriCab Queensland State Manager Shane Plumridge re ected on the company’s silver sponsorship at the 2024 expo.
“ e ability to see people from the local area in the one place all with the same values, who were looking for new and innovative products and services, was a tribute to the organisers,” Plumridge said.
“It gave TriCab the ability to expose our vision of demonstrating our capabilities in PNG’s growing mining industry.”
Plumridge encouraged all stakeholders involved in the resources and industrial support channel to attend the 2025 event.
“ e organisers have created a concentrated group of suppliers in a safe and easy-going atmosphere, where the cream of the mining supply chain providers are showcasing innovative products,” he said.
“Events like the PNG Expo are vital in bringing like-minded consumers and suppliers together in the one space where it is mutually bene cial to all.”
Marketing Manager of Mining Events at Prime Creative Media, Rebecca Todesco, said the focus for the 2025 event is allowing delegates and attendees to maximise face time and networking opportunities.
“Holding the event at a luxury business location like the Stanley Hotel means our delegates can spend more time building lasting industry connections and less time travelling between locations,” she said
From the welcome drinks to the exhibition oor, the speaker conference and the gala dinner – all sideline events will be held within walking distance on Stanley Hotel property.
“Our delegates can make the most of their time at the conference, knowing that once they arrive, we will bring the industry to them,” Todesco said.
“Locating everything in the one place not only means more contact between our buyers and suppliers but also means we can prioritise the welfare of our attendees.”
e PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference will be held from 2–3 July 2025.
Events like the PNG Expo are vital in bringing like-minded consumers and suppliers together in one space.
The PNG Expo will take place at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby from 2–3 July.
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Is 2025 the year Australia nally ‘gets
it’ on biomethane?
France gets it, Denmark gets it, Europe gets it – so when will Australia ‘get it’ around the decarbonisation potential of biomethane?
APGA Head of Policy Jordan McCollum
Entering into 2025, I nd myself asking one big question – is this the year that Australia’s renewable energy and decarbonisation advocates nally ‘get it’ on the topic of biomethane?
I ended 2024 with a leisurely trip to Europe in which it wasn’t only the food, wine and beautiful architecture that stood out to me. Rather, one of the rst things I noticed – quite literally as I was getting o the plane – was Europe’s commitment to biomethane.
is commitment met me upon my arrival and departure in Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport thanks to a series of billboards by TotalEnergies. A major renewable energy player in France, its billboards proudly showed o images of its renewable energy portfolio – with wind, solar, and biomethane facilities pictured side by side.
Imagine that – a renewable electricity company that promotes renewable gas, rather than combats it.
TotalEnergies is not alone in Europe. e continent boasts over 20,000 biogas and 1400 biomethane facilities as of 2023. Denmark is a particular standout case satisfying 40 per cent of domestic gas demand in this manner.
But arriving back home in Australia, I was met head on with the false dichotomy of the Australian decarbonisation debate – a debate in which you’re either for electrifying everything or branded as a fossil fuel apologist for suggesting alternatives.
A debate in which one jurisdiction, the ACT, is so committed to their gas ban that they rather tell all commercial and industrial gas users reliant on Type B gas appliances that they will have to move to speci c industrial estates to continue operating their businesses.
A debate in which another jurisdiction, Victoria, is (at the time of writing) consulting on policy that assumes gas bans are a given, while preparing to release consultation to ‘consider’ their long-held gas ban policy.
And a debate in which energy consumer advocates fail to respond to government consultation which proposes the curtailment of gas customer rights, while proposing regulatory reform which would push up customer prices in the name of electri cation.
Europe boasts over 20,000 biogas and 1400 biomethane facilities as of 2023.
But, alas, I can’t half blame them when our national science agency’s own analysis proposes electrifying everything – as discussed in my last article – and when not a single Australian energy retailer is marketing a retail renewable gas product.
Luckily, there is light on the horizon. e AEMO forecasting process which asks CSIRO to model gas electri cation has started to undertake its own investigation into the true cost and availability of biomethane. is analysis is expected to become a required input for CSIRO modelling from here on.
Additionally, CSIRO energy research leaders have now met with APGA, AGIG and GAMAA at AGIG’s HyHome in Melbourne.
Here we discussed the reality of 100 per cent hydrogen appliances – which CSIRO typically exclude from gas decarbonisation modelling due to “not being available” –while surrounded by 100 per cent hydrogen appliances.
While the impasse between renewable electricity and renewable gas holds back Australia’s energy transition today, it looks like there is hope for a nuanced approach to decarbonisation in the years to come.
I just hope we can progress before the Australian public gives up on the transition altogether thanks to the impracticality and unwieldy cost of a one-size- ts-all energy transition.
JOIN AN APGA COMMITTEE TODAY
Advocacy is for everyone
Gretyl Lunn from the Women in Pipelines Forum discusses the crucial role men play in the gender conversation.
Searches for International Men’s Day peak in March every year. I initially came across this claim while browsing online, so I decided to verify it through Google. What I found were common sentiments like, “We celebrate International Men’s Day (for some reason),” and “364 days of the year are already about men”. ese statements highlight a broader societal perception that often overlooks the unique challenges and contributions of men – most people who make up the pipeline industry. is brings us to the crucial role men play and need to continue to play in gender conversations and events, emphasising the need for their active participation and recognition. e objectives of International Men’s Day are: 1. To promote positive male role models (not movie stars and sports men, but everyday, working class men living honest and decent lives)
2. Celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family and the environment
3. Focus on men’s mental health and wellbeing
4. Highlight discrimination against men
5. Improve gender relations and promote gender equality
6. Create a safer, better world where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential. Men’s mental health is a critical issue that often goes underreported and untreated. In Australia, construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than from an accident at work, with young construction workers more than twice as likely to take their own lives compared to other young Australian men. Globally, men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues due to societal stigmas around expressing vulnerability.
Additionally, men are more likely to work away from home for extended periods, which can impact their mental health and family life.
Highlighting advocacy for men isn’t about shifting the focus away from women – it’s about fostering balance, inclusion, and wellbeing for everyone. When men are marginalised or dismissed in gender conversations, it can alienate them from the broader movement towards equality. is alienation can hinder progress, as achieving true gender equality requires the active participation and support of all genders. is year, the theme of International Men’s Day was promoting positive male role models. is includes men who break stereotypes and advocate for gender equality can inspire others to follow suit. At convention in 2024, the WPF asked at our booth ‘Who is a male ally for women in this Industry?’ A male ally is a man who actively supports gender equality and advocacy for everyone. A small example of the responses are shared below:
• Steve Davies (APGA)
• Rod Harris (Lochard Energy)
• Phillip Colvin (Jemena)
• Scott Pearce (CNC)
• Wayne Burns (Anode Engineering)
• Matt Clark (APA)
• Patrick Nolan (Jemena)
• Craig Clarke (FFCRC)
• Darren Rogers (APA)
• Mark Fothergill (APA)
• Sean Ward (Jemena)
• Dennis Reid (APA)
• Josh Row (Epic Energy)
• Klaas van Alphen (APA)
• Matthew Mason (APA)
• Dave Maloney (CNC)
• Josh Wickham (GPA)
• Mark Lackenby (APA
• Hayden McDonald (Mipela)
• Eric Bardy (SEA Gas)
• Mark Dayman (Fyfe)
• Rob Wiltshire (GCEC) ere are a multitude more, but it is extremely encouraging to see these men being called out. Last year we listed the women who inspire us, and this year it’s heartening to recognise the men (listed and unlisted) who are making a di erence. eir e orts remind us that building a better industry is a collective responsibility. Going into 2025, let’s continue to celebrate and support each other, ensuring an industry where everyone feels valued and included.
At convention in 2024, the WPF asked ‘Who is a male ally for women in this Industry?’
Charging ahead
Future Fuels CRC CEO David Norman discusses Europe and Australia hydrogen networks and the opportunities for novel hydrogen production.
In recent months in Australia and Europe we’ve seen continuing developments to deploy hydrogen and biomethane at scale.
e Victorian Government has just announced its Renewable Gas Directions Paper, charting a path to renewable gas in Victorian networks from 2027. e paper proposes a small scheme with up to 1PJ of renewable gas by 2030 and 4.5PJ by 2035. But importantly this now puts a policy in place to get renewable gas owing in Australia. Other nations have then found the momentum to develop a much larger industry.
In Western Australia, APA and Wesfarmers Chemicals Energy and Fertilisers published the key results from their Parmelia green hydrogen project feasibility study. e study explored the potential to produce and transport green hydrogen via APA’s Parmelia pipeline to the ammonia production facilities at Kwinana. e project o ers the opportunity to deliver largescale green hydrogen to the established industrial precinct at Kwinana and creates options for hydrogen use in industry decarbonisation and growth. e project also demonstrates how existing assets including the Parmelia gas pipeline and Wesfarmers ammonia facility can be repurposed to support the energy transition from a commercial perspective.
Germany’s Federal Network Agency has approved the country’s rst national hydrogen grid, to start operations as early as 2025.
e full grid will be in the process of completion over the next seven years with 9040km of pipelines connecting up all of Germany’s industrial centres with import and production zones. Building on signi cant projects in Germany and neighboring Rotterdam, the grid will carry hydrogen to major consumption points in Germany. e pipeline corridor from Rotterdam to the Ruhr Valley in Germany has received priority from the Dutch government with further con rmation of support and incentives for pipelines carrying both hydrogen and CO2 occurring recently. at project is called the Delta Rhine Corridor (DRC).
All of this activity complements our work on infrastructure, preparing the new knowledge needed to deliver renewable gas in Australia. It also supports the early stage work we’ve delivered to develop and report on many di erent hydrogen production technologies. Our earlier assessment of production technologies found 26 di erent viable technologies that could produce hydrogen and related products. is was openly released on our website last year and is one of many such research projects available. As part of Future Fuels CRC’s research to accelerate development of early stage, breakthrough technologies, our teams of researchers have developed a small selection of these: Novel methanol production: a hybrid membrane technology and bespoke catalysts to improve hydrogen to methanol conversion for use-cases when methanol is a more practical fuel.
is technology combines a catalytic reactor with membrane separation to achieve a membranebased reactor, reducing the overall equipment footprint. is transformative technology can assist hydrogen producers to e ciently produce alternative fuels.
Solar catalysis: developing technology that allows for the production of hydrogen with direct sunlight – a process known as photocatalysis. is process has potential cost advantages compared to other renewable hydrogen production technologies and our research has focused on developing the new photocatalyst material needed to unlock this technology. Methane pyrolysis: advancing the development and demonstration of a novel process with strong potential to achieve a step-change in the cost of production of hydrogen from natural gas. Natural gas pyrolysis involves the cracking of methane into solid carbon and hydrogen, allowing the solid carbon to be simply stored or used for other higher value purposes. e project focuses on both catalyst and reactor development.
is year will mark Future Fuels CRC’s nal year of operation, having delivered seven years of world-leading, industry-led, outcomes-focused research. e Australian pipeline industry is already developing its next approach for the future of collaborative research, to take it forward in 2025 and beyond. We look forward to sharing more in future editions of this magazine.
Future Fuels CRC is accelerating the development of early stage, breakthrough technologies like renewable gas.
The official magazine of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) and the leading media brand for the sector.
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.
Tracking the latest appointments
In this regular column, The Australian Pipeliner celebrates new appointments in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific’s pipeline sector.
ROB CORRIGAN – GENERAL MANAGER – OPTIONX BOURNEDRILL
Rob Corrigan has made the move to OptionX Bournedrill, where he has taken up the role of General Manager.
Corrigan brings a wealth of experience to the role as an
experienced Manufacturing Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive industry.
Corrigan’s previous experience includes stints at Apollo Manufacturing, Apollo Motorhome Holidays, Bruder Expedition and TJM 4x4.
He will be supported in his new role by another new hire with Craig Hills recently appointed as the OptionX Bournedrill's Operations Manager.
Enrico Da Costa has also joined as Internal Sales and Purchasing Officer, adding renewed energy and a strong focus on customer service.
With one of the most experienced pipeline integrity teams in the country, we understand the testing and ILI challenges threatening your operations.
JOHN RUTHERFORD – OPERATIONS MANAGER HDD – SPIECAPAG
John Rutherford has been announced as Spiecapag Australia’s new Operations Manager – HDD.
Rutherford has been at Spiecapag since joining the company as a graduate mechanical engineer in November 2018.
Since then, he has gone on to hold the roles of Project Engineer, Senior Project Engineer, Deputy Project Manager and Project Manager, with notable current Project being the Jansz-IO Compression Project for Chevron and the Marinus Link HDD Project.
“I started with Spiecapag and HDI Lucas (Spiecapag’s HDD arm) as a graduate
engineer and through some very strong mentorship and great project opportunities I have been fortunate enough to be in a position to facilitate the growth of our business and HDD team,” Rutherford said.
“I am excited to embark on this next stage of my career with the ongoing support from Spiecapag and HDI Lucas.
“It is an exciting time for trenchless solutions in the Australasian market with some major projects awarded and on the near horizon.
“I am proud to contribute to our net zero pathways through the various internal developments we are making within the industry, along with projects supporting the ongoing energy transition.
“The growth our company has experienced
in recent years has facilitated this move and I feel confident with the team around me in delivering for our clients in the years to come.”
Rutherford, who has already contributed to a number of challenging pipeline projects in his short time in the industry, was named the Jeff Pace Young Person of the Year in 2023.
In 2024, Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) named Rutherford among the recipients of the Young Pipeline Professionals (YPF) scholarships for the Emerging Fuels Symposium in Greece. He has also had success supporting Spiecapag with winning papers for the 2022 Rehabilitation Project of the Year for the ASTT and APGA Environmental Award 2024.
JAMIL TYE – INDEPENDENT ABORIGINAL DELEGATE – YARRA VALLEY WATER
Yarra Valley Water has announced the appointment of Yorta Yorta and Boonwurrung man Jamil Tye, as an Independent Aboriginal Delegate to its board of directors.
Tye is the organisation’s first Independent Aboriginal Delegate to be engaged in the role, effective September 2024.
Before joining Yarra Valley Water, Tye was the Director of the William Cooper
Institute, named after the revered Yorta Yorta Aboriginal activist, and who is family to Jamil through his sister Ada.
He currently serves as the Executive Director of External Community Engagement and Impact at Monash University and has extensive experience across the education, government and mining sectors.
“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me,” Tye said.
“It aligns with my values, as well as
my commitment to advocate for the education, health, and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
“This role offers a unique opportunity to learn more about water management initiatives at the highest level.”
The Independent Aboriginal Delegate role is designed to assist in developing the skills and experience relevant to applying for a Board position within the Victorian water sector.
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 Editor Timothy Bond at tim.bond@primecreative.com.au
Image: John Rutherford
Image: Rob Corrigan
Image: Jamil
Tye
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