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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.
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CEO’s message
This year has been one of high consequence for our industry and we have a lot to be proud of. The trajectory of the public discourse and sentiment, project development and government policy is moving in the right direction. With the qualifier that is mostly hard and slow going.
That is the nature of the energy transition and project delivery, the increasing expectations and scrutiny on all aspects of this transformation of the economy mean that every gain and step forward will take a lot of work.
The theme for this edition of The Australian Pipeliner is Pipeline People and I can’t think of a better one that exemplifies what is special about our industry. I’ve just said above that every step forward is going to take a lot of work and hard work and working together to solve problems is something that is deeply ingrained in our industry.
This was on full display in October at this year’s Annual Convention and Exhibition. The sponsors, exhibitors, presenters and delegates all came together and made the event another great one. The exhibitors and presenters combined to ensure the best our industry has to offer was on full display in the exhibition hall and business sessions and, as always, the cohesion across the industry was evident from the interactions at the social events. The expertise within the industry and the willingness to share will stand us in good stead in the years ahead. Delivering the event is a major task of the secretariat and I want to shout out Gayle, Lawrence and Charmaine for their parts in organising and delivering it so well in 2024.
This edition also puts a spotlight on the industry in Victoria.
The anti-gas rhetoric and actions in Victoria have been one of the biggest challenges for the industry in the last 12 months and APGA has been spending a lot of energy pushing back
against the misinformation. The issue is bigger than Vicotria, what the East Coast needs is as much investment in gas supply as possible and any anti-gas position from government, state or federal, damages the investment environment for all projects. We are making good progress, the Victorian Government’s announcement they will not ban gas cooktops shows they are increasingly aware of how much support there is for gas. We’ll keep up the efforts for industry and are always available to discuss the strategy and actions with members, not just those in Victoria. From everyone at the Secretariat, all the best for the end of the year and we look forward to seeing many of you at the Christmas events around the country.
STEVE DAVIES APGA CEO
ABN: 29 098 754 324
APGA Secretariat Registered Office:
7 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 (PO Box 5416, Kingston ACT 2604)
T: +61 2 6273 0577
E: apga@apga.org.au
W: www.apga.org.au
Chief Executive Officer
Steve Davies
Corporate Services Manager
Michelle Wickson
National Policy Manager
Jordan McCollum
Communications Manager
Lawrence Shelton
Engagement Manager
Gayle Burns
Membership Officer
Katy Spence
Policy Manager
Catriona Rafael
Government Relations Manager
Paul Purcell
Company Secretary
Dhammith Abeysuriya
Safe, Reliable Pipeline Solutions
•Hot Tapping
•Line Isolation & Bypass
•Pipe Cutting
•Commissioning
•Decommissioning
•Equipment Maintenance
•Training
What’s on the go in Victoria?
The pipeline industry in Victoria has seen major developments in recent months, with new projects and plans unveiled for the state.
From works on the East Grampians Rural Pipeline, to an Abergeldie Complex agreement and award nominations for Yarra Valley Water, there has been plenty going on in the Victorian pipeline industry.
Contractor announced for major pipeline works
GWMWater has awarded a tender to Mitchell Water Australia for the construction of the second stage of the East Grampians Rural Pipeline.
The works, which involves the laying of the pipe which will transfer and deliver water to customers, were expected to get underway in October.
The project will secure a high-quality rural water supply for towns and farms in the region.
The first stage of construction is currently underway at the Lake Fyans Pump Station.
Lake Fyans will be the main water source for the East Grampians Rural Pipeline, with smaller volumes of water being sourced from Mt William headworks and the Mt Cole Reservoir.
The contract for the second stage of the project involves construction of trunk mains and distribution network pipelines, additional pump stations and water storages.
Construction of the pipeline will help secure the future of rural landowners and small towns surrounding Ararat by providing a reliable, secure high-quality supply of water all year round.
Major water infrastructure upgrades for Victoria Yarra Valley Water has signed a nine-year
agreement with Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure and Service Stream to deliver reliable water and sewerage services to almost a third of Victoria’s population.
The partnership will assist with Yarra Valley Water’s Reliability Program, which includes planned inspections, maintenance and renewals of water and sewer networks and associated network assets. As part of the plan, up to 50km of sewer and water infrastructure will be rehabilitated each year.
Abergeldie and Service Stream said they were thrilled with the continuation of their longstanding partnership with Melbourne’s largest water utility. The latest agreement has the capacity to be extended up to 12 years.
Yarra Valley Water Distribution and Growth General Manager Bridie Fennessy said the increased expertise generated by dual partnerships would ensure the smooth delivery of the Delivery Reliability Program.
“These new long-term partnerships reflect our commitment to deliver safe, reliable and affordable water and sewerage services, as well as providing a timely response if something goes wrong,” she said.
“Through these partnerships, we’ll continue renewing and replacing ageing water and sewerage pipes and conducting ongoing maintenance across our network infrastructure.”
Public urged not to close pipeline air valves
Members of the public in Victoria have been urged not to close air valves that run along
pipelines in the region.
Goulburn Murray Water revealed a “few instances” of people recently closing the air valves that run along many of the corporation’s pipelines.
“When these valves are closed, air can get trapped in the pipeline, which can cause a system failure,” GM Water explained.
“For the system to run properly, all air valves need to be turned on and working correctly.
“We believe, in most instances, that pipeline customers or members of the public have closed the valves because they have seen small amounts of water leaking from them and believed closing them was the best course of action.
“If you do see a valve that is leaking, we ask that rather than close it, you call GMW, so we can get one of our staff out to fix the problem,” the corporation added.
“During working hours, you can phone GMW on 1800 013 357. Otherwise, you can phone our 24-line on 1800 064 184.”
146-year-old Melbourne pipeline gets a facelift
Greater Western Water (GWW) has successfully replaced a legacy water main in Melbourne, future-proofing the city’s water supply.
The 146-year-old cast-iron water main was replaced using a combination of slip lining and lift-and-relay methods.
The new 3.5km water main runs along Victoria Street, from North Melbourne to Carlton, increasing capacity and providing safe and reliable drinking water to the city’s inhabitants.
GWW General Manager of Growth and
Infrastructure Ian Burton thanked the community for its patience while rehabilitation works were conducted.
“As work took place along a major city arterial road, construction was delivered in carefully planned stages to minimise disruption and maximise safety,” he said.
“With a large section of works carried out at night, we want to thank the community for their patience and understanding during construction.
“It was important to work closely with stakeholders, local businesses and residents to understand different needs and keep everyone updated as work progressed – and we appreciate the feedback we received while we carried out this essential network upgrade.”
Yarra Valley Water finalist in four Victorian water award categories
Yarra Valley Water has been announced as a finalist in four categories in the 2024 Australian Water Association’s Victoria Awards.
The awards celebrate innovation, leadership, infrastructure and inspiring positive change to drive a sustainable water future.
Acting Managing Director Natalie Foeng said she was proud to see Yarra Valley Water recognised by the Australian Water Association and paid tribute to all the team.
“It is a huge achievement to be recognised as one of the top water authorities in Victoria for innovation, leadership and organisational excellence. Well done to all of our staff – this is something that they can be very proud of,” she said.
Yarra Valley Water is a finalist in the
following categories.
• Infrastructure Project Innovation - Metro Award: Recycled Water Community AssetsEnabling a Victorian Major Infrastructure Project to Reduce Environmental Impact through Water Offsets
• Young Water Professional of the Year: Felicity Gould, Regulation and Business Planning Manager
• Organisational Excellence: Mental Health and Wellbeing - Leading into the Future with Healthy Minds – psychosocial safety strategy
• Organisational Excellence: Gama Dji BalitEmerge Strongly (Partnership with Have a Dig, Jaydo, and Ventia)
VicWater’s annual conference explored the theme of ‘Environmental Stewardship: Caring for Country and advancing sustainability in the Victorian water sector’.
The conference, which took place in recent weeks, welcomed a sell-out crowd to the Langham in Melbourne.
On day one, keynote speaker Professor Tim Flannery set the scene with an overview of the impacts of climate change, pointing out that Australia’s water systems were built for a climate that no longer exists – which brings much uncertainty, but also a lot of opportunity for the pipeline sector.
Day two’s keynote speaker Victor Steffensen gave a heartfelt presentation about how the industry and country can learn from Indigenous
knowledge systems to restore and maintain a healthy environment, or to quote him directly, “let the landscape lead us forward”.
Other conference sessions covered topics including the impact of extreme weather events on the Victorian economy, the latest advancements in PFAS removal, how the sector is tackling climate adaptation and corporate sustainability, key lessons on achieving environmental compliance, and how Integrated Water Management (IWM) can support thriving communities.
“A particular highlight for me was the panel discussion on Traditional Owner water governance, facilitated by Dr Erin O’Donnell and featuring Jackson Chatfield, Executive Director of Birrarung Council and Dr Sarina Loo, CEO of the Victorian Environmental Water Holder (VEWH),” said VicWater CEO Jo Lim.
“It was great to hear about the work these organisations are doing to give effect to the Water is Life roadmap through their partnerships with Traditional Owner groups.
“This year we were especially thrilled to introduce our new Emerging Leaders initiative to recognise and support emerging leaders, nominated by their organisation, with a complimentary ticket to attend the conference,” she added.
“We were so pleased to provide a cohort of 20 emerging leaders with this opportunity to spend time with their peers and expand their industry knowledge and professional network – plus a photo op with Minister Shing at dinner.
“The feedback we received at the conference and afterwards was overwhelmingly positive, and we will definitely make this an ongoing feature of our Annual Conference from now on.”
Victoria has played host to major water works in 2024.
Revolutionising fluid transfer efficiency
With decades of experience supplying the Australian Defence Force with layflat hose and reel systems for its rapid refuelling projects, Crusader Hose put its expertise to the test when it was contracted to design and manufacture a ship-to-shore system for the South Korean Navy.
After 18 months of development, the Maritime Fuel Hose System™ represents a state-of-the-art solution, solidifying Crusader Hose’s position among the top fuel handling system manufacturers in the Southern Hemisphere.
The military depends on efficient and portable fuel distribution systems for rapid refuelling, including flexible layflat hose, collapsible fuel bladder tanks, pump systems, and tactical refuelling vehicles. These systems allow for quick, reliable fuel delivery to aircraft, vehicles and ships, ensuring continuous
operations without long delays. Flexibility, durability, and speed are essential in critical mission situations.
Crusader Hose has both the experience and know-how of over 21 years in supplying the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with rapid refuelling layflat hose and reel systems. When the South Korean Navy needed a ship-to-shore fuel transfer system, its agent sought Crusader Hose for its expert skill in design and manufacturing capabilities. Months of discussions led to the development of a blueprint for a customised system.
A year later, Crusader Hose’s top engineers, fabricators, and production crew proudly delivered the revolutionary Maritime Fuel Hose System.
The brief
The transportation of fuel to remote island locations poses several significant challenges. The Korean Navy required a bulk fuel transfer system to solve the logistical complexity of transporting fuel from a ship to a potential beachhead and then further overland to a refuelling station.
Images: Crusader Hose
Layflat hose is buoyant, making it ideal for the Navy’s needs.
This system had to provide all-weather resilience in the 2km littoral zone (the shallow waters between the ship and the shore) while also providing a reliable method for further distributing the fuel over undulating and challenging terrain. In addition to these requirements, the system had to be easy to transport, provide rapid deployment and recovery, and the pipeline robust enough to tolerate harsh conditions.
Why Crusader Hose
Given Crusader Hose’s proven track record of supplying layflat hose and reel systems to the military, it is logical that it was the trusted choice to fulfil the Navy’s demands.
Crusader Hose has a long history with the ADF. In 2003, Crusader Hose designed and manufactured a fuel logistics solution to assist the ADF in its peacekeeping efforts in East Timor.
The Timor Reel System consisted of a skidbased reel system with interchangeable spools that could deploy 800m lengths of customdesigned flexible layflat Petroline® hose. It is still in use today, as its efficiencies are demonstrated by a small platoon deploying a 15km flexible pipeline in just one day. For the past two decades, the ADF has relied on the high-quality layflat hose systems by Crusader Hose and is currently conducting another joint project modernising their critical fuel support system over the next three years.
The reputation of Crusader Hose has drawn the attention of other defence force services. In 2018, the Enhanced Air Cooperation Refuelling Project between the US Marines and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) included the use of
This endorsement stands as a genuine testament to the excellence of Australian manufacturing.
The Maritime Fuel Hose System
System stands around four cubic metres square, showcasing advanced design and craftsmanship. Placed onto a barge and sent between the ship and the shore, each Busan Reel deploys 1500m of Petroline: one to the ship and the other to the shore.
Fuel from the ship is then pumped across the barge to the shore, filling bladder tanks. From there, the land-based Argyle Reel deploys the Petroline pipeline to the fuel farm. The Argyle Reel System is an agile system that holds up to 200m of hose per crate. The interchangeable crates allow pipelines of any required length to be constructed.
The efficiency of the layflat hose system is remarkable. The hose from the two Reel Systems can be deployed in about one hour. This enables pumping from the fuel ship in as little as two to three hours, allowing the transfer of megalitres to the beachhead. The six-inch Petroline layflat pipeline can move over two million litres of fuel per day. The Maritime Fuel Hose System can operate in very shallow waters with minimal seabed disturbance. This helps protect sensitive marine ecosystems.
Couplings and clamps of various types can be fitted to layflat hose.
The Crusader Hose team.
Pipelines over water
Many factors contribute to the success of a seabased pipeline, with compactness and flotation being significant advantages when using layflat hose. Layflat hose, when wound onto reels, takes up minimal space compared to rigid pipes of similar capacity. This is particularly crucial when space is restricted, such as on a sea-based vessel. As layflat hose floats, flotation devices are only required around the couplings and not along the full length. A simple anchoring system assists in maintaining the pipeline’s position. Successful sea-based pipelines require the ability to withstand the flux of directional waves, wave swell, and wave height. These factors are tabled according to the severity of waves in the Beaufort Wind Force Scale from zero-12, described as sea states, with zero referring to calm waters. The Busan Reel Systems have been designed to tolerate the full scale up to sea state 12, hurricane force.
Versatility of layflat hose
Flexibility, durability, and ease of use are the hallmarks of layflat hose, making them versatile
and popular across many industries: agriculture, mining, municipal water supply, firefighting, and construction. Applications include irrigation, dewatering, potable water bypass, and high-pressure water pumping. Layflat hose is highly portable and easy to store. Its flexible nature allows it to be easily rolled up, transported, and deployed for shortor long-term projects. Layflat hose is durable and can withstand abrasion and environmental factors such as UV exposure and extreme temperatures. Couplings and clamps of various types can be fitted to suit the application.
The fabrication of layflat hose
Crusader Hose manufactures its hose in its ISO 9001:2015 certified factory. The weaving looms produce the textile reinforcement with interlocking warp and weft polyester yarns. This method creates a hose with a high-burst pressure of up to 80 bar and high end-pull ratings. The hose is extruded with thermoplastic polyurethane, making it impermeable, UV-stabilised, and abrasionresistant. The Petroline hose incorporates this
innovative technology, including an additional anti-static wire to ground the entire pipeline length.
Benefits of reel systems
Crusader Hose showcases its engineering ingenuity through its reel systems. These systems, designed in consultation with key industries, reduce the need for manual handling, enhance safety, and improve operations. Versatile in their use, Crusader Hose reel systems can also be used for winding cables or rope.
Crusader Hose has revolutionised ship-toshore bulk fuel distribution with its cutting-edge Maritime Fuel Hose System. Undeniably, this system delivers outstanding performance with minimal effort, offering increased efficiency, strategic flexibility, and operational continuity.
With its innovative approach and engineering expertise, Crusader Hose can be trusted to meet all pumping and pipeline requirements for overland, maritime, and high mine pit wall projects.
The Busan ship-to-shore system.
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Championing the Michels values
Rowena Stockton is keeping health, safety, environment and quality her top priorities at Michels Trenchless.
When Michels, a global leader in trenchless construction, launched its Australian operations in 2021, it needed people who would champion the values that have made it a success in North America since 1959.
Rowena Stockton is one such professional, leveraging her expertise in health, safety, environment and quality (HSEQ) to ensure the organisation’s core values – including safety, the cornerstone of Michels’ culture – is not lost in translation. As the HSEQ Manager at Michels Trenchless, Rowena plays a vital role in the company, both as a member of the Australian leadership team and as an advocate in the field.
Joining Michels during its early days in Australia, Rowena has been instrumental in establishing and delivering trenchless construction projects across Australia and the Asia Pacific region. Renowned for completing some of the world’s most challenging trenchless projects, Michels is poised to enhance the region’s trenchless construction capabilities, including direct pipe and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) approaches.
Michels Trenchless brings this expertise to Australia, focusing on the most technically demanding trenchless installations. The Australian team benefits from a substantial local fleet of specialized equipment, seamlessly integrated with Michels’ globally experienced technical experts.
“The depth of experience, global support, and
began her career in the resources industry.
“My first job out of university was at a gold mine, which set the path for the rest of my career,” she said.
“I worked across a broad range of sectors, including consulting, mining, chemical processing, oil and gas, and agriculture, gaining wide and varied experience. I then found myself in the trenchless industry, which is where I have been for the past 15 years.
“My work has provided me with valuable experiences, opportunities to travel across Australia and work with great people.
“A good team can make all the difference, and at Michels in Australia, we have a fantastic team that I am fortunate to be a part of. Ensuring that we have a strong HSEQ culture and that our core values are incorporated into everything we
“I am also passionate about implementing best practices and ensuring that we protect our other most valuable asset, the environment.”
In her time at Michels Trenchless, Rowena has also played a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and managing operations in Australia. She reports to and advises the General Manager, particularly on HSEQ matters, which have made great strides under her guidance.
Michels Trenchless recently completed two
recently certified to ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 standards, marking another significant achievement for the company.
In line with Michels’ spirit of innovation, Rowena drives forward-thinking HSEQ processes within the company. Her leadership also extends beyond HSEQ, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation at Michels Trenchless. Her strategic insights help the company navigate complex projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
Rowena and the rest of the Michels Trenchless team is already looking ahead at new opportunities in HSEQ, such as the expansion of their sustainability focus, including implementing initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and transitioning towards net zero.
Rowena looks forward to lending her expertise and passion to future Michels Trenchless’ projects as well.
“There is a high demand for safe, unobtrusive underground construction for renewable and traditional energy projects throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific region,” she said.
“No matter the complexity of the project, Michels Trenchless is positioned to deliver highquality solutions, reliably and safely.”
Images: Michels Trenchless
HSEQ Manager Rowena Stockton.
Michels Trenchless is helping to deliver complex trenchless projects across Australia.
• First to move the vacuum reservoir from the excavator stick to the counterweight
• First to use the excavator hydraulics to power the vacuum pump
• First to remove radio remote control
• First to introduce dedicated excavator operator controls
• First to introduce 360˚ rotation
• First to develop an in-trench pipe assembly apparatus
• First to develop an hydraulically assisted multiple o ring jointed pipe assembly tool
• First to develop a remote controlled in pipe inspection tool
• First to develop a VacLift that will only release a pipe when the pipe is on a solid surface
• First to increase the range of diameters able to be handled by each pipe shoe
• First to develop a fully adjustable attachment pickup.
We know the industry better than anyone, talk to us about all your pipeline plant hire needs first.
A low impact relining solution
The Australian Pipeliner sat down with Primus Line Director ANZ Heiko Manzke to hear how the company is delivering complex pipeline projects.
If you ask Primus Line Director – Australia and New Zealand Heiko Manzke what the best part of his job is, he’ll tell you it’s the variety that the role demands.
Whether he’s answering technical engineering questions, on the road to a trade show, or analysing a pipeline project, Manzke wears a lot of hats.
For the past six years, Manzke has managed the Australia and New Zealand interests of Primus Line, a German-based company that manufacturers its flagship flexible pipeline under the same name. It’s a big job, but Manzke has the backing of an international team of experts to help deliver client projects reliably and efficiently.
The Primus Line solution is a robust, flexible pipe that is able to rehabilitate pressure pipes. The technology is self-supporting and does not require impregnation, curing or gluing.
One important part of Manzke’s job is identifying high quality partner companies to install the Primus Line product.
“In Germany, Primus Line has been manufacturing, engineering and installing our products with our own teams for decades,” he said.
“Outside of central Europe, we look for local specialists in the trenchless relining field to partner with.
“We train them to use the Primus Line solution, certify them, and continue to support them.”
This means that Primus Line is no ‘off-theshelf’ product. The company’s local installation partners are experts in their own right, working with Manzke to apply the technology in the most effective way.
“A large part of my job is consulting with partners, engineers and asset owners to determine whether Primus Line is the right fit for their project,” Manzke said.
“In cases where the pipeline can be easily replaced – such as a shallow grassland – it may make more sense to simply tear up the pipe and relay a new one.
“But where pipeline assets are harder to reach, this is where Primus Line does what it does best.”
The Ann Street pipeline repair project in Brisbane is an excellent example of this – one that is particularly memorable to Manzke.
The work involved rehabilitating a 130-yearold pipeline under one of Brisbane CBD’s busiest streets.
With the pipeline located on a major arterial road, the open excavation works required would have been extremely costly and disruptive.
That’s where Primus Line came in.
“This pipeline runs along one of the main roads into the heart of Brisbane,” Manzke said.
“We only did night works for this project, and during the day, just had a couple of steel plates that closed the pits because the access points we require are so tiny.
“During the day, people weren’t even aware that works were going on.”
Images: Primus Line
The Ann Street project only required small access points to rehabilitate the pipeline.
Primus Line Director ANZ Heiko Manzke.
With minimal disruption to the public, Primus Line was able to return the legacy asset to operating condition for decades to come.
“With the Primus Line product, we were able to provide a new pipe inside the old pipe, taking pressure off the asset and extending its lifetime by over 50 years,” Manzke said.
“And on top of that, we calculated that by relining with our product rather than replacing the pipeline, the project’s carbon footprint in construction was reduced by 90 per cent.”
Beyond high density urban environments, Primus Line is also an excellent choice for pipeline rehabilitation where there are digging restrictions in place, such as cultural heritage areas. When an underground pipeline passes through such an area, excavation is often not an option.
Fortunately, Primus Line can rehabilitate large sections of pipe in a single drive. This means asset owners can dig a small access point in an unprotected area, and – thanks to the significant length of each pull – conduct rehabilitation works in sensitive areas without breaking ground.
“With a solution like ours, you can rehabilitate large sections of pipe in a single pull, allowing for the seamless repair of assets even in sensitive or technically complex areas,” Manzke said.
“For instance, we completed a 1.4km water pipeline in Victoria in a single pull using an access point at either end.
“And over in New Zealand, we have done a
1.1km pipeline under open ocean, again, only with two access points.”
As cities expand, regulation changes, and the demands on pipeline projects become more technically complex, trenchless solutions are becoming increasingly relevant. Luckily for the pipeline industry in Australia and New Zealand, Manzke and Primus Line are here to help.
Gas is here to stay
APGA Corporate Affairs Manager Paul Purcell discusses the ongoing role of gas in the energy transition.
The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) Convention found itself in the news recently, and for good reason, as shadow Energy Minister Ted O’Brien announced one of the Opposition’s key energy policies ahead of the next election – including gas in the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS).
Since then, there has been some alarm and just a dash of misinformation about what this means.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t a subsidy paid to producers, nor does it directly impact the economics of pipelines. But what it does do is simple – it provides a fail-safe on the necessary journey to net zero.
The energy transition is not unlike navigating uncharted waters. We know the destination, net zero emissions by 2050, but the route is full of unknowns and quickly changing conditions.
Under such circumstances, it’s imprudent to disregard a technology that has repeatedly proven its worth in times of crisis – including on multiple occasions so far in 2024 alone.
Excluding gas from the CIS ignores not only its reliability but also its ability to complement renewables in a way that minimises risks to both the grid and consumers.
The purpose of including gas in the CIS isn’t to sideline renewables, as some critics have claimed.
Instead, it’s about recognising the limitations of the current energy system. Batteries and pumped hydro will play a significant role in the future, but their development is still ongoing, and their capabilities, while improving, are not yet sufficient to meet the demands of a decarbonised grid.
A transition without an appropriate safety net is not a plan – it’s a gamble.
This announcement comes at a critical time. Reports of brownouts, industry disruptions, and skyrocketing prices continue to dominate headlines. Families are feeling the pressure of rising energy costs, and businesses, particularly in manufacturing, are grappling with uncertainty about their future operations.
The reality is that the transition to a lowcarbon economy must be managed in a way that maintains energy security and affordability. Gas, when integrated into the CIS, can serve as that buffer against potential shortfalls while working to unlock more renewables and less coal generation.
It’s also important to recognise the evolving landscape of global energy markets.
Countries around the world, including Australia’s key trading partners, are all working
through their own challenges in transitioning to lower-emission energy systems. As O’Brien pointed out, nations such as the UK and France have implemented capacity markets to secure dispatchable power, recognising the importance of having a balanced mix of energy sources.
In fact, even some Australian states, including South Australia, recognise this reality, and are in the midst of developing their own state-based capacity investment scheme to safeguard the grid.
The CIS should be viewed as a form of insurance – an assurance to investors, consumers, and our trading partners that Australia is serious about its transition and committed to doing it right.
The inclusion of gas in this mechanism doesn’t undermine the broader goal of increasing renewable energy capacity; rather, it supports that goal by ensuring the grid remains reliable during this period of significant change.
We know gas is not the complete answer for achieving net zero. No one is suggesting it is.
However, in the immediate and medium term, gas remains the only viable technology capable of providing the flexibility and stability needed to support the rapid expansion of renewables.
As we navigate these uncertain times, a clearheaded approach to energy policy is crucial.
It’s not just about ideological commitments; it’s about making decisions based on facts and realities on the ground. The transition to net zero will require a suite of solutions, and while gas may not be the only answer, it is the necessary answer for the next phase of Australia’s energy journey.
As industry experts are almost unanimous in pointing out, ignoring this fact in favour of an all-or-nothing approach risks creating a more expensive and unreliable energy system.
O’Brien’s message to our convention was clear: gas is here to stay, not because it’s a perfect solution, but because it’s the pragmatic one. Australia’s secure energy future cannot be built on wishful thinking or political rhetoric alone. It requires a commitment to flexibility, security, and reliability – a commitment that can only be achieved with a balanced energy mix.
Ultimately, the debate about including gas in the CIS comes down to a question: Do we want a resilient energy system that is capable of supporting the transition to net zero at the lowest cost?
If the answer is yes, then the path forward must include gas as part of the solution. There’s no time for ideological purity in this conversation.
Instead, we need a clear-eyed focus on what works, what’s proven, and what’s necessary to keep the lights on while we build the renewable future that we all aspire to.
Australia’s energy journey is at a crossroads, and the decisions made now will determine the path we take for decades to come. The inclusion of gas in the CIS is a crucial step toward navigating that journey, ensuring that we arrive at our destination with a stable and secure energy system intact.
It’s not about clinging to the past; it’s about laying a solid foundation for the future. As Ted O’Brien stated: “Gas is here to stay” – and for good reason.
Ted O’Brien speaking at the APGA Convention.
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Who are this year’s APGA award winners?
Recognition of the past and hope for the future were the prevalent themes at the official opening ceremony of the Australian Pipeline and Gas Association Convention, which took place in Adelaide in October.
The pipeline industry came together to celebrate the decades-long commitments of many of its major players, and to reaffirm its collective effort to keep the lights on in Australia for generations.
The convention opened with the Australian Pipeline and Gas Association (APGA) annual awards, which are presented to individuals and companies in recognition of their service to the nation’s pipeline industry.
Fyfe Executive Chairman Mark Dayman took out the prestigious Honorary Life Membership Award for his pioneering work in the pipeline industry, which first began in 1975.
Dayman thanked his colleagues at Fyfe and across the industry, as well as his loved ones for their continued support.
“The APGA has been a cornerstone of my career for a very long time. It’s also been an important factor in the success of Fyfe,” he said.
“Throughout my time with the APGA, I’ve loved every moment of it.”
The Honorary Life Membership Award is not an annual award and is only granted in special circumstances. Given at the discretion of the APGA board, it acknowledges one who has rendered outstanding service to the APGA and the pipeline industry, beyond what’s expected of their position.
Significantly, the board decided to issue two such awards.
APA Group’s Kevin Lester also received the Honorary Life Membership Award for his outstanding service to the industry. As Group Executive Infrastructure Development, Lester is responsible for supporting APA Group’s $26 billion portfolio of assets. Lester has spent his career fostering a culture of collaboration within the pipeline industry, and, until recently, served as APGA director.
Images: Glenn Hunt Photographers and APGA
The APGA award winners.
Fyfe Executive Chairman Mark Dayman.
“The APGA is a fantastic association to be involved in, allowing us to share the research that we do, learn from each other, and advocate to help influence government policy,” he said.
CNC Project Management Managing Director Dave Maloney received the annual Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Pipeline Industry Award.
“With a career in infrastructure development spanning over 35 years, Dave’s the real deal,” APGA President John Stuart-Robertson said when presenting the award.
Maloney, a former President and board member of APGA, took the opportunity to thank his team, and to reflect on the people who have helped him along the way.
“Volunteering for an organisation like APGA, I have people asking me how and why I put in the effort I do,” he said.
“What I’ve learned throughout my time in the industry from my mentors has been incredible. The things I’ve learned, the experiences I’ve had, are largely from interactions built over so many years. During that time, there have been moments where I think: you can’t buy this experience.
“If you are thinking about volunteering, you can improve not only the lives of those around you, but also your own life.”
The Jeff Shepherd Construction Excellence Award was taken out by Spiecapag Pipeline Construction Manager Doug Wood. Throughout his career, Wood has supervised the construction of more than 1900km of pipeline.
The Young Achiever Award was awarded to Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) Marketing Manager Claire Minns for demonstrating a valuable contribution to the industry, displaying innovation in her work, and showing potential for leadership.
APA Group received the Diversity and Inclusion Award. The company’s diversity and inclusion strategy focusses on the importance of inclusion, respecting and harnessing differences in people to create better outcomes for its team and customers.
AGIG also took out the Safety Award for its underground asset locator program. Excavation is one of the most high-risk work activities in the pipeline industry. In recent years, AGIG has significantly strengthened safety protocols to reduce the likelihood of such dangerous events occurring.
Finally, Spiecapag received the Environment Award, which recognises achievements aimed at improving environmental practices. The company was contracted for a job on Barrow Island in WA, a Class A nature reserve, which included drilling and civil works.
Through a custom approach, Spiecapag was able to replace fresh water with seawater in the drilling process, delivering excellent environmental results.
APGA board
changes
APA Group Executive Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Elizabeth McNamara has been appointed to the APGA board. Her appointment as Director comes as Kevin Lester steps down from the same role after a 16-year tenure.
McNamara steps into her new role as a key advocate for gas in the energy transition, reinforcing APA’s long-standing relationship with APGA.
“We are seeing an increased recognition of the critical role gas plays in the energy transition, thanks in no small part to the advocacy efforts of organisations like APGA,” she said.
APA Group Executive Infrastructure Development Kevin Lester.
APA Group Executive Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Elizabeth McNamara.
The APGA Convention took place in Adelaide in October.
Vinidex recognised for decarbonisation efforts
Vinidex’s high-density poly ethylene recycling hub has been awarded a Queensland Government grant in recognition of its role in decarbonisation.
The Queensland Government is supporting economic diversification and the transition to a clean energy economy through the $200 million Regional Economic Futures Fund (REFF).
Backed by a $1.75 million REFF investment, Vinidex’s new HDPE recycling hub, located in Toowoomba, will assist in the production of fully recycled products, reducing the amount of material going to landfill and leading the way when it comes to producing more sustainable products.
Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace recently announced the $1.75 million in funding for Vinidex’s HDPE recycling hub. The establishment of Vinidex’s recycling hub will allow for material recovery, turning HDPE, post-consumer and post-industrial waste material such as janitorial material and milk bottles, into recycled products. This will reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill and lead the way when it comes to producing lowercarbon products.
This speaks to Vinidex’s commitment to sustainability. Vinidex helps life flow with groundbreaking, high-quality pipeline products and systems, connecting everything from water, gas, and energy throughout Australia.
As part of the Aliaxis Group, Vinidex is focused on bringing solutions to the world’s water challenges and accelerating the transition to clean energy. Aliaxis is a global leader in advanced piping systems for building, infrastructure, industrial and agriculture applications with a presence in over 40 countries globally, and a manufacturing footprint of 80 sites around the world.
In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, Aliaxis has embarked on a journey to progress sustainability and innovation, including transitioning to 100 per cent renewable electricity at all sites in Australia by 1 January 2025.
The funding from the REFF will significantly assist to establish a recycling facility at Vinidex’s Toowoomba site, furthering both company’s environmental plans. Construction on the project is planned for 2025.
Vinidex CEO David Bird said the company has been setting the industry benchmark for pipeline systems and solutions for over six decades.
“We are proud to have been recognised by the REFF and the Queensland Government for our efforts to further improve the circular economy,
reduce waste to landfill and reduce Scope 3 carbon emissions, with the establishment of Vinidex’s recycling hub at our new Toowoomba site,” he said.
Aliaxis Asia Pacific CEO Mark Nykiel echoed this sentiment.
“Aliaxis’ strategy has sustainability and innovation at its core,” he said.
“Funding from the Queensland Government through the REFF will allow Aliaxis to continue to implement real change.
“Combined with our commitment to transitioning to 100 per cent renewable electricity at all APAC Aliaxis sites by 1 January 2025, it is further proof of Aliaxis’ determination to have a positive impact on the communities in which we operate.”
Images: Vinidex
Vinidex provides innovative pipe systems and solutions, including PVC, PE, PP, DICL, and industrial pipe systems.
The recycling hub is located in Toowoomba, Queensland.
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Boots on the ground learnings
country as well as attended APGA’s annual convention to learn more from its current and future partners.
A few common themes emerged from these conversations, as well as the ways that Bridger Photonics can help.
Managing vast and remote infrastructure
Australia’s energy infrastructure spans some of the most vast and remote terrain in the world.
Bridger Photonics understands the need for scalable solutions. The company deploys aerially so it can cover wide areas in a single pass. Scanning aerially means it can cover entire pipelines in a matter of days, scan vast processing plans swiftly, and help operators feel confident in what’s covered.
The need for sensitive, localised detection
Another challenge for operators comes in knowing what may be emitting. Broad detection tools often fall short because they lack the precision to identify specific sources of emissions. In vast areas, emissions can be widespread, and finding the exact origin without the right technology can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for rapid repair.
Bridger Photonics’ technology doesn’t just detect emissions – it can localise with precision, helping operators zero in on emission sources. From wellheads to compressor stations to pipelines, the company can detect and report locations of methane emissions, giving operators the actionable data they need to respond quickly and effectively.
Bridger Photonics is capable of scanning hundreds of sites or kilometres of pipeline in a single day.
Gas: A year in review
APGA National Policy Manager Jordan McCollum discusses what 2024 has meant for the gas industry.
Coming out of another fantastic APGA Convention and into the tail end of the year, I’ve found myself looking back at the year that was. Rather than the more seismic changes in energy policy seen in years past, 2024 has been marked with a larger number of smaller yet still impactful policy changes.
Some of this policy change has been quite positive. State and federal energy policy that sought to either ban renewable gases outright (Vic) or support hydrogen and hydrogen exports
alone (Federal, NSW, SA and Qld) have started to become more technology agnostic.
Most notably, both the Federal Guarantee of Origin (GO) Scheme and NSW Renewable Fuels Scheme have taken steps towards expanding to cover biomethane. The former is also supporting domestic customer usability.
Work is also underway to reform federal emissions legislation to recognise certified renewable gas purchases – a market-making reform for renewable gases.
At the same time, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) is working towards a more realistic understanding of renewable gas costs to bring into its Integrated System Plan (ISP).
The renewable gas market saw positive movement with a swathe of new declarations of intent seen from biomethane producers across the country. AGIG turn sod on its 10MW Hydrogen Park Murray Valley project, while the SA Government stepped towards developing its hydrogen GPG supply chain project in Whyalla.
Gas has a critical role to play in Australia’s energy transition.
In a first for almost a decade, the Australian Energy Regulatory (AER) agreed with our call to consolidate reporting obligations, rather than expand them, while delivering wholesale market monitoring and reporting guidelines. And the federal team responsible for emissions reporting agreed that simpler ‘method 1’ fugitive emissions reporting cannot be removed until more complex methods are practically workable.
But it’s not been all positive. In the midst of the sternest gas shortfall warnings from AEMO and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to date, the AER chose to self-initiate a Form of Regulation Review on the South West Queensland Pipeline, putting revenue certainty at risk for this and all pipeline assets.
This strike against investment certainty could not have come at a worse time for the east coast gas market. It demonstrates that no investment in pipeline infrastructure is safe from price setting below the cost of investment – at a time when the market needs more investment in pipelines, not less.
This occurred without a single customer asking the AER to do so and customers responded with nothing but support for the current lighter form of regulation.
Despite a draft decision being released in favour of the current lighter form of regulation, the AER’s actions and rhetoric within this decision introduce significant new investment risk for all pipeline investments moving forward.
This year also saw the Victorian Government drafting legislation both banning gas appliance installation in rental properties and providing it the legal right to ban all gas connections and appliances outright. Both were in one way or another delivered by stealth – not a particularly democratic way of making policy.
Both of these aspects are being hotly contested. While organisations which understand the gas supply chain try to address the facts around conversion costs and the value of renewable alternatives, others maintain pressure fighting against the rights of customers to choose the form of energy – and approach to decarbonisation –which works best for them.
Among the good and the bad there have been some important learnings. Engagement around the AER’s problematic Form of Regulation Reviews has made it clear to government and industry alike that the current regulatory regime, designed for the challenges of the 2010’s, is not fit for purpose for the challenges of the energy transition.
While road-showing recent renewable gas analysis by ACIL Allen we discovered the impact of independent multi-sector energy modelling. CSIRO’s findings against renewable gas was directly challenged by ACIL Allen’s modelling outcomes.
Comparing both sets of modelling showed assumptions around biomethane cost and hydrogen appliance availability as the likely cause of CSIRO’s outcomes. This demonstrated the impact that ineffective modelling is having even at this stage of the energy transition.
Both of these learnings have helped refocus APGA’s policy lens. The final months of 2024 will see Owner Member working groups formed around these challenges in order to derive targeted solutions.
And herein lies the great value of an industry association like APGA. While each business in and of itself will be engaging with government on these topics, APGA provides a central point to focus policy and advocacy action.
It’s been a privilege to work with policy experts from across the pipeline industry for another year in 2024, and I look forward to continuing to do so for many more years to come.
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Pipe Tek puts down roots in WA
Pipe Tek is now a truly national company after setting up a team in WA, which gives the company the strategic capabilities to respond to demand across Australia.
One of Australia’s leading turnkey pipeline solutions providers has expanded into a new market, establishing a base and team in Perth, Western Australia.
The move makes Pipe Tek one of only a handful of National Association of Testing Authoritiesaccredited integrity contractors operating in the state, strategically positioning the company to service the state’s booming resources sector.
Having identified demand for its services, Pipe Tek has established a base in Perth and recruited a crew to service the state.
The company now has the capabilities to quickly and easily work on pipelines across the country, as well as PNG and the Pacific, from their headquarters in Brisbane.
New opportunities
While Pipe Tek’s roots are in the gas pipeline sector, Managing Director Myles Brannelly said the strategic expansion is about bringing their unique value proposition to new markets.
“Hydrogen is a natural and logical transitional opportunity for many contractors involved in gas pipelines; however, some of the most ambitious pipeline construction across the country are associated with mining projects and developments,” Brannelly said.
“One of the largest and longest pipelines constructed in the past few years were the pipelines associated with Fortescue’s Iron Bridge in WA.
“While it might not be front of mind, pipelines play a significant role in mining and resources.”
According to data from the Federal Government’s Geosciences Australia, there are more than 350 mining developments in Australia.
With pipeline infrastructure in place at all these locations, that means there’s a lot of pipe that needs to be in service to ensure operations aren’t impacted.
“Obviously the transmission of water is integral to not only operations, but also the quality of life for crews onsite,” Brannelly said.
“A number of mine sites also have dedicated gas pipelines for energy – you can imagine the impact this could have on the bottom line if these are not operating to their capacity.
“Like any element of a supply chain, pipelines are living and breathing assets. Each metre is unique depending on what it’s been constructed from, how it’s been installed and the conditions it exists under.
“There are so many variables that contribute to a pipeline’s performance. Our capability is to deliver a full turnkey solution to the end user, ensuring the pipeline returns to operating as close to its designed capacity for as long as possible.”
New markets
The expansion includes the addition of hydro testing supervisor Leia Mace, who has spent the past three years working on a range of different sites across WA, Adelaide and Brisbane.
Mace has been impressed with Pipe Tek’s range of state-of-the-art equipment and machinery,
including the company’s exclusive range of Enduro cleaning pigs, inline inspection (ILI) tools, data logging and other technology.
“I have a lot of experience working in WA’s pipeline market and am excited for the challenge of supervising Pipe Tek’s testing in the state,” she said.
“The first thing that stood out to me is how modern our technology is, including the capabilities of our standalone equipment to provide live data back to base from any location in WA.
“This frees up the team to focus on testing operations and, to my knowledge, isn’t something other testing companies have in their arsenal.”
Brannelly said the move was about diversifying Pipe Tek as a business, while also capitalising on a gap in the market and demand for the company’s services.
“Looking ahead, we predict there will be a lot of work for Pipe Tek in the region servicing the gas and LNG sector, as well as demand from the resources and mining sector,” he said.
According to a 2023 report from the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia, the state’s mining sector contributed almost $99 billion to Australia’s economy in 2021–2022.
“The mining industry commonly uses highdensity polyethylene pipe in their operations which are prone to abrasion and gouges when being transported, which can result in test failure,” Brannelly said.
“We’re looking forward to engaging with new companies in the mining space and our turnkey pipeline inspection solutions to the WA market with this newly assembled team.”
Images: Pipe Tek
Pipe Tek’s setup onsite in a remote location.
Pipe Tek’s hydrostatic testing setup in a coal terminal.
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Pro Pipe Services’ action-packed year
This year has proven to be a busy year for Pro Pipe Services as it expanded its own facilities and services into Western Australia. With major projects in the pipeline and sights set on new markets, 2025 looks set to be a bumper year for the business.
Pro Pipe Services will celebrate seven years in business in December this year.
And what better way to do it than with a move to a new facility and the unveiling of ambitious plans for 2025.
In less than a decade, Pro Pipe Services has become one of the nation’s leading and biggest providers of hot tapping and line isolation services in the pipeline industry.
In mid-October, the Australian-owned company completed the move to a new facility in Keilor Park, Victoria.
The move involved the removal of offices, removal and relocation of an overhead crane, and the installation of plenty of storage, as the business took in more equipment.
Company Director and Owner Joe Buttigieg highlighted the importance of the new facility and what it means for Pro Pipe Services moving forward.
“It’s a bigger facility which allows us to store more equipment,” he said.
“We have a storage agreement with one of Australia's largest pipeline companies, and they are acquiring more equipment, which requires more space.
“It also gives us more flexibility to be able to provide all maintenance services, equipment repairs, and more.”
Busy 2025 in store
With the company’s facilities expanding alongside an increasing workload, the company is also exploring the possibility of growing its team.
“Every indication is that workloads are going to increase so we may have to look at expanding our team,” Buttigieg said.
He also revealed the business has already
and Perth, that they will be executing in the first quarter, as well as a backlog of work in NSW, South Australia and Victoria in the last quarter of 2024.
“We will finish off the year just as busy as we started and will see continued growth,” he said.
This will be followed by some “significant projects in the pipeline” towards the middle and late next year.
Exploring new markets
Buttigieg said that Pro Pipe Services also has its sights set firmly on cracking a new market in 2025.
“Ninety per cent of our work is on gas, whether it’s transmission or distribution,” he said.
“We’ve also started leveraging aluminium smelters, and we just completed a job at Portland Aluminium Smelter, which was very successful.
“We now also have an opportunity to work on a major water project.
“For us, it doesn’t matter what’s in the pipe – as long as it’s a pipe we can work on it,” he said.
“Whether it’s compressed air, gas, water, slurry, or anything like that, as long as it’s a pipeline, we can tap into it, we can isolate it, and we can perfrom the service and alteration that is needed.”
This year proved to be a groundbreaking year for Pro Pipe Services as the company completed projects in Western Australia, a previously untapped region.
With an increasing amount of work from customers in Perth, Buttigieg said the project they executed earlier this year has led to further jobs in the last few months, with more booked for early 2025.
Images: Pro Pipe Services
Double 12-inch (DN300) HP isolation with bypass.
A 10-inch (DN250) HP hot tap and set completion plug.
Pigging project highlights power of partnerships
Recently, Pro Pipe Services worked with a pipeline operator that was conducting pigging on a pipeline in Melbourne.
“An important part of the project was to reduce the amount of emissions being let out into the atmosphere,” Buttigieg said.
To do this, the project team turned to Zevac, a company known for providing one of the industry’s most versatile gas/liquid capture and recovery technology.
Pro Pipe Services contacted Tremco Pipeline Equipment to hire a Zevac machine, and Sales Manager Brett Trembath was more than happy to supply it.
“This is the exact perfect application for this machine,” Trembath said.
“This is its wheelhouse.”
Trembath recalled receiving a call from Pro Pipe Services requesting a machine capable of evacuating a large number of pig traps.
“I said this is exactly what it's meant for,” he said.
“So we had a chat, got all the dimensions, did some calculations, and I contacted Zevac.
“They gave us some rough drawdown times, and we managed to go back and say this will be perfect for your application.”
Pro Pipe Services hired the machine from Tremco Pipeline Equipment and, thanks to easy-to-understand instructions and expert training, were able to perform the service without a hitch.
Roxy Mounter, Vice President of Sales for Zevac, said the project was the perfect opportunity to showcase the machine’s potential and power.
“Our niche is really the frequent intentional venting that occurs day-in, day-out in the industry,” she said.
“So, it’s not the big pipeline drawdowns but everyday maintenance work, where people will have previously vented the gas or flared off liquids, is really a sweet spot for the Zevac.
“I think the ease of use is really shown with this project here.
“With a simple checklist and guidance, the Pro Pipe guys were good to go to use the machine.”
Buttigieg also highlighted the machine’s ease of use, and the confidence it gave the Pro Pipe Services’ team.
“With Brett’s help there, and help from Zevac, we were able to take the instructions and read through it, and it was quite a simple tool to use. It’s not overly complicated,” he said.
“With some good guidance from Tremco Pipeline Equipment, we were able to execute that project, and it’s been successful.
“We’ve done several runs now where the customers have had a launcher that was full of gas that they wanted to remove and without emitting it to atmosphere, we’re able to connect the Zevac machine and compress that gas into the new line, and therefore reducing the amount of emissions, providing a clearner option and reducing the carbon footprint on the environment.
Relocating overhead crane.
McElroy’s rising stars
In mid-September, shipments began for two of the latest additions to McElroy’s machine lineup.
The TracStar® 412i and TracStar 618i are specialised for the medium-diameter pipe fusion market, adding to the strong legacy of McElroy’s three existing TracStar iSeries machines. These newest machines are designed to boost operator confidence and efficiency while also ensuring joints are performed accurately and according to standard.
The TracStar 412i and 618i take the place of the Series 2 machines.
Like their current Series 2 counterparts, the TracStar 412i is designed to fuse pipe sizes from 4-inch IPS to 12-inch DIPS (110mm–340mm), and the TracStar 618i fuses pipe from six-inch IPS to 18-inch OD (180mm–450mm).
The power of FusionGuide Control
These machines incorporate the FusionGuide™ Control system seen on other TracStar iSeries models, providing operators with three levels of
control during the fusion process. Each level has varying degrees of assistance, from manual control to fully automatic fusion.
FusionGuide Control implements an integrated software that guides the user through every step of the fusion process, including machine pressures, carriage, heater actions, and the shift sequence.
The FusionGuide Control levels are as follows: • Level 1 (manual control) – Allows the operator to control the carriage position and times during the fusion process. el 2 (enhanced guided workflow) – This level provides a software-controlled shift sequence however the heating and fusion times have on-screen prompts. el 3 (automatic fusion) – When fusing with this level, the entire fusion process is software controlled.
“In the four years since the launch of our largediameter TracStar iSeries line, we’ve consistently heard from our partners and operators that the FusionGuide Control system has translated into countless hours and dollars saved in the field,” McElroy TracStar iSeries Product Manager Brett Stone said.
“As we’ve continued to see more HDPE projects that utilise medium-diameter pipe, we knew that incorporating TracStar iSeries technology into our medium-diameter line of machines would provide an extra layer of value, both in terms of efficiency and quality control.”
Images: McElroy
The TracStar 618i and TracStar 412i mark the entry of McElroy's industry-leading iSeries technology into the medium-diameter pipe fusion market.
New and improved features
In addition to the incorporation of the FusionGuide Control System, the TracStar 412i and 618i include several key new features.
All fusion functions for the TracStar 412i and TracStar 618i – including setting machine pressures, carriage open/close, and shift sequence – are performed using the DataLogger®, a ruggedised tablet tailored to pipe fusion. In addition to controlling machine functions, the DataLogger records fusion parameters and other pertinent data during the fusion process.
With the DataLogger, users can take advantage of the Vault™, McElroy’s powerful cloud-based storage platform. The Vault allows users to store their data for inspection, quality control, or other record-keeping purposes. Operators can share reports with supervisors, owners, and inspectors for closer evaluation to ensure each fused joint conforms to industry standards and is ready for service.
A new, seven-blade fan was also added to the TracStar 412i and TracStar 618i to combat the extreme heat experienced at job sites around the world.
For a machine fusing in 49˚C conditions like those experienced in parts of Australia, that additional fan power helps keep the fusion machine running at peak performance while also protecting components from potential damage.
But there’s more. A new indexer keeps the heater and facer attached to the four-jaw carriage, condensing the heater, facer, and jaws into a single unit. Operators can move the indexer side to side along a set of rails, allowing them to position the heater and facer between the carriage’s movable jaws as needed.
The indexer also includes a built-in stripping and release mechanism. Once the heat soak phase of the fusion process has been completed and the operator opens the carriage, the mechanism will automatically strip the heater from the ends of the pipe. As the carriage continues to move, the indexer will then retract the heater out of the fusion zone.
Guided firmware updates
As machines become more integrated with technology, it’s important to ensure that equipment is using the latest software.
In summer 2024, McElroy introduced guided firmware updates to provide an easy, step-bystep guide for users needing to download and install new software to their machines. Updating firmware is essential to ensure the machine is running the latest version for continued enhancements and new features.
The guided firmware update process allows users to update components that are controlled by firmware for operation. This process, presented on the DataLogger, can be used as a step-by-step guide for updating machine components as new releases become available.
Now shipping
The TracStar 412i and TracStar 618i began shipments in September 2024.
During the summer months of 2024, several channel partners traveled to McElroy in Tulsa, Oklahoma to work with these two new machines and provide feedback on the experience.
“It’s just amazing – I want to take three home,” C. C. Carlton Industries General Superintendent Jose Briones said, referring to the TracStar 618i that he worked with in Tulsa.
For more information, contact customercare@mcelroy.coms
Are you considering all key aspects of your pipeline project?
The Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia discusses the importance of standards, the role of industry guidelines and the importance of welder competence for PE pipelines.
Polyethylene (PE100) pipe is a material of choice, with well over 100,000 tonnes of PE pipe installed across Australia every year. PE100 piping is used for critical infrastructure including gas reticulation networks, water supply for drinking water reticulation, irrigation, and extensively used for industrial and mining applications for water and process fluids.
PE pipes in Australia are manufactured in a range of diameters from 20mm through to 2000mm.
The two most common installation techniques to connect pipe and fittings are electrofusion and butt fusion. Both techniques are safe, economical and an efficient means of installation of underground and above ground piping systems.
Electrofusion was first used in the 1970’s and has grown in popularity. Millions of electrofusion joints are installed worldwide each year. In larger diameters, butt fusion is the most common jointing technique.
With a wide range of sustainability benefits, these engineered products are safe, durable and play a critical role in delivering essential services reliably everyday day to homes and communities. To achieve a service life in excess of 100 years, it’s important for materials and products to meet Australian standards and be installed correctly by a qualified welder in accordance with industry best practice guidelines.
Australian standards and industry guidelines
Australian PE pipe manufacture centres on a suite of Australian standards that were first developed in the early 1960’s and have been constantly updated since. Relevant Australian standards include AS/NZS 4131 PE compounds for pressure pipes and fittings, AS/NZS 4130 PE pipes for pressure applications and AS/NZS 4129 Fittings for PE pipes for pressure applications.
In terms of requirements for PE100, the Australian standard for PE materials aligns closely with the PE100+ Association in Europe –an organisation that has set benchmark standards above the International Organization for Standardization requirements to showcase the high-end capabilities of the best PE pipe materials. The Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia (PIPA)’s technical guideline POP004 – Polyethylene pipe and fittings compounds, lists PE pipe compounds evaluated against the requirements of Australian standards.
Complementing Australian standards, industry best practice guidelines are developed to provide additional information outside of the standard.
“As the industry organisation, PIPA brings together industry experts to form committees and working groups focused on addressing industry priorities,” PIPA Executive General Manager Cindy Bray said.
“Collaborating with global counterparts and industry professionals, we develop and publish robust guidelines and specifications for plastic pipes and fittings.”
Identifying the importance of industry best practice for welding, PIPA has published technical guidelines POP001- Electrofusion jointing of PE pipe and fittings for pressure applications. It provides guidance on industry best practice techniques for safe and reliable jointing of PE pipe using electrofusion jointing. It includes building an understanding of electrofusion and providing vital information on all the critical factors for successful fusion, quality requirements, welder certification and training, and appropriate tools and equipment. The guideline also provides an overview on the considerations of installation, including post fusion quality checks and quality control records.
POP003 – Butt fusion jointing of PE pipes and fittings, provides recommendations on butt fusion jointing parameters and best practices for butt fusion jointing.
These guidelines are referenced in relevant Australian standards, water industry codes and the coal seam gas code of practice.
Welder competence
It is critical to have competent welders.
“The biggest single contribution to a successful electrofusion or butt fusion weld is the competency of the welder and their dedication to correct surface preparation and weld procedures,” Bray said.
As per AS/NZS 2033 Design and Installation of polyolefin pipe systems, installers must be trained and certified to the standard PMBWELD302E – Electrofusion Weld Polyethylene Pipelines for electrofusion and PMBWELD301E – Butt weld polyethylene pipelines and hold a current installer’s certificate before undertaking any welding practices.
“It’s important that the competency level of the welder be considered in relation to the criticality of the pipeline,” Bray said.
“Specifying the minimum competency level required also ensures that quotes or tenders can be assessed on an equal basis.”
The value of having competent welders cannot be overstated.
With a wide range of sustainability benefits, PE pipes are safe, durable and play a critical role in delivering essential services everyday day.
A welding crew will normally contain people with a range of skills and experience, from unskilled workers through to trained welders with extensive experience. When developing a project specification, the composition of the welding and installation crew needs to be defined in terms of expected skill and experiences.
Typically for a major project, the welding supervisor on site should be a trained and experienced welder (a person trained by a registered training organisation) and be able to provide objective evidence of at least three years relevant experience. This experience should include welding pipe of similar or larger sizes to those in the current project.
The remainder of the crew would typically be trained welders (where training was provided by a registered training organisation within the last three years) assisted by unskilled workers.
PIPA recommends the reaccreditation of welders every two to three years to ensure the welder maintains understanding of current standards, procedures, and technical advances. It also ensures the welder skills are reviewed and current.
PE pipes play such a critical role in society, so it is important they are manufactured to relevant standards and, just as importantly, installed in accordance with industry best practice guidelines and by competent and qualified welders.
PIPA’s guideline POP003 provides recommendations on butt fusion jointing parameters and best practices for butt fusion jointing.
Pollard’s reliable packaging for major pipeline project
When a major pipeline project got underway in Queensland, Pollard’s Sawdust Supplies were tasked with securely bedding the pipe to ensure on-site safety.
When the first pipes for the $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline arrived in Rockhampton, Queensland in June 2023, they had travelled a distance of 1955km from Somerton in Victoria.
Getting the precious pipes on site and strung out required Pollard’s reliable and durable Pack Tuff pipeline bedding to complete the job safely.
Pollard’s Sawdust Supplies was established in 1968, as a provider of sawdust for butcher shop floors.
The company is now a leading manufacturer and distributor of sustainably sourced wood shavings and sawdust in Australia. Its primary material is Australian softwood and hardwood fibres, and its eco-friendly products are biodegradable and chemical free.
Pollard’s specialises in providing a simple and reliable solution for pipeline bedding with its
Pack Tuff bags, a lightweight yet heavy-duty solution for protecting assets on-site, during transportation and while in storage.
When Steel Mains transported its pipes to Rockhampton for the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline Project, they turned to Pollard’s for the pipe’s on-site protection.
The 117km pipeline project will deliver longterm water security to the Gladstone region, with the capacity to transport 30 gigalitres per annum from the Fitzroy River to Gladstone.
The project was awarded to the McConnell Dowell BMD Joint Venture team with Steel Mains secured to manufacture the pipes and Pollard’s trusted with the pipeline bedding.
The first pipes arrived in June 2023 and the project hit the halfway mark a year later, with 63km of pipeline laid by mid-June 2024.
Pollard’s Director Peter Brennan told The Australian Pipeliner that he and his company were proud to be part of the project and collaboration.
“We provided the sawdust for all the pipes that were going out and Steel Mains were producing a lot of pipes, so it was pretty constant work,” he said.
“We were sending out three deliveries a week to them – 30 pallets, 900 bags a week for almost 12 months.
“It was a big operation and there was a lot of planning and logistics needed.
“We had to make sure we had the volume of sawdust required, the customised bags and the staff necessary to complete the orders while also supporting and servicing our regular clients as well.”
Brennan said it was a source of pride to see his team take on such a mammoth project and deliver it with flying colours.
“It was great to see it all come together and work like that and to see the team being able to fulfil all the orders and meet the demands, even under a bit of pressure.
“It was our main job, the biggest we were involved in over the last year, and we’re really pleased with how it went and our involvement.”
Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are shipped across Australia and pallets arrive on-site stretchwrapped and weatherproof.
The bags have been used on a number of projects around the country involving companies such as McConnell Dowell, Steel Mains, MPC Kinetic, Spiecapag, John Holland, and Nacap.
These projects include the Victorian Desalination Plant, Northern Gas Pipeline, Lake Way Gas Pipeline, Agnew Gas Pipeline, Victorian North-South pipeline, W.O.R.M. project, as well as the Wentworth to Broken Hill Pipeline for which Pollard’s provided approximately 25,000 Pack Tuff bags.
Gavin Hainsworth, a Technical Sales Engineer at Steel Mains, has worked with Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags on a number of occasions.
“We’ve often seen clients reuse the bags because the quality of the Pollard’s bags is that good,” he said.
“During one project in Townsville, we had roughly 700 bags with seven-tonne pipes sitting on them for 12 months in far north Queensland weather conditions.
“When the pipes were taken off, the bags dried out and were still in great nick, so we offered them to a local contractor because they were perfect for reusing.
“I also saw competitor’s bags break down during this 12-month period, leaving sawdust everywhere, while Pollard’s still looked new.”
Images: Pollard's Sawdust Supplies
Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are a durable solution for protecting pipelines.
Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are a durable solution for protecting pipelines.
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
• Patented gripper design for increased safety in high-pressure applications
• Eliminates welding end caps for pressure testing pipe spools and piping systems
• Test flange-to-pipe welds without pressurizing entire systems
• Isolate & monitor upstream pressure and vapors during hot work
• Standard pressure ratings up to 15,000 PsiG (1034 BarG)
• ASME PCC-2 Type I, III & IV Testing Devices
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Fifty years on the cutting-edge of the pipeline industry
With more than five decades of experience in the pipeline industry, Anode Engineering’s Managing Director Wayne Burns has witnessed and been involved in his fair share of innovations. And he’s not done yet.
Wayne Burns said he was lucky to grow up in a culture that prided itself on a ‘never say can’t’ attitude.
Speaking to The Australian Pipeliner, Anode Engineering’s Managing Director reflected on the innovations he has been a part of over the past 50 years.
He also discussed how his company and industry partners are continuing to help lead the way in the pipeline industry.
“I was lucky to grow up in a culture of ‘never say can’t’ and always looked to improve or deliver some innovation around something we do that could be done better with a bit of innovation,” Burns said.
“So, throughout my working career, I have been lucky to work with a team of folks who have always tried to lead the market with a better system.”
Industry innovations
Burns recalled one the earliest innovations he worked on.
“Back in 1974, I was lucky to work with a guy named John Mulvaney who worked on the Direct Current Voltage Gradient (DCVG) technology,” he said.
“We took that from a garage-built set of hardware to a market leader in technology.
“The product was later copied by many, but we led the way in changing coating integrity testing that changed how contractors constructed pipelines.”
When asked if much had changed in the intervening 50 years, Burns said the probe construction has changed but little else until recently.
“However, the Anode Engineering team has almost completed a revolution in the DCVG test method that will surely change the entire methodology,” he said.
It’s not the first time Anode Engineering has been at the forefront.
“Back in the 1980s, we led the field of deep well anode bed installations and today, we are still very competent in that area,” Burns said.
The Evolution revolution
More recently, the company has been responding to Australia’s need for reliable, high-performance pipeline solutions.
“Anode Engineering, a leader in corrosion prevention, continues to champion the Evolution® isolation gasket kit, a product that has consistently
delivered outstanding results across the industry,” Burns said.
“Flange insulating kits (FIK’s) have been an industry issue in maintenance. After many years of development and testing, GPT Industries released a revolutionary Evolution FIK.
“Previously, traditional FIK material could suffer from failure if the methane content of the gas was greater than 70 per cent.
“The new Evolution FIK’s are totally resistant to failure and gas leaks due to any methane gas presence,” he added, describing the product as a revolution for the oil and gas industry.
Burns said with Evolution being developed by GPT industries, it marked a significant leap in isolation gasketing technology when it was introduced.
“Years of field performance have now solidified its reputation as a game-changer for pipeline integrity,” he said.
The Evolution kit’s key features include impressive dielectric strength, industry-leading pressure capability, exceptional chemical resistance and superior sealing performance.
With its proprietary coating, Evolution has proven its mettle against hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and steam – common challenges in Australia’s diverse pipeline environments.
The thinner 1/8-inch design continues to simplify installation, while its fire-safe construction – API 6FB certified – provides crucial safety in high-risk scenarios.
“Evolution has become a cornerstone solution for our clients,” Anode Engineering Sales Manager for Australia and New Zealand Noel Eustance said.
Engineering
A typical Argus pig launcher valve.
The GPT Evolution gasket, sleeve and washer kit.
solutions for Australia’s unique conditions.”
As the oil and gas industry tackles increasingly complex extraction and transportation challenges, Evolution isolation gasket kits have demonstrated their ability to meet and exceed these demands.
Backed by Anode Engineering’s local expertise and support, Australian pipeline operators can confidently rely on this field-proven technology to enhance the safety, efficiency, and longevity of their critical infrastructure.
And the innovations don’t stop there, Burns explained.
“Our GreenAmp remote monitoring has taken off in the industrial and marine markets and has revealed some terrific results that in coming years will change how the industry operates and manages integrity management.”
Renewed partnerships
Anode Engineering also recently renewed its partnership with Argus, an international
Burns said the partnership will drive the pig valve market forward and allow un-piggable pipelines to be pigged both manually, using a rotating valve system, or automatically from stemstored and auto launched pigs.
“In addition, at least two intelligent pigging companies have confirmed that they can launch an intelligent pig from an Argus pig valve,” he said.
“Technical papers are available to report on this technology.
“For pipeline operations seeking a safe, ecofriendly, and integrable solution for pigging maintenance and inspection, Argus pig valves offer compact, low-emission pig launching and receiving.
“They provide flow assurance, corrosion mitigation, reduce the risk of shutdowns and leaks, and enable early detection and proactive maintenance, all while helping operators meet emissions targets and safety standards across more pipeline systems.”
Anode Engineering also highlighted the benefits of multi-pig launchers, available in the same sizes and pressure ranges.
“For pipeline operations managing remote pipelines or seeking to streamline pigging operations, the multi-pig launcher offers automatic remote launching of up to eleven pigs,” Burns said.
“This solution reduces the need for manual intervention, keeping maintenance on schedule while delivering economic and environmentally friendly benefits.
“By minimising human interaction, the multipig launcher enhances efficiency and ensures reliable, low-impact pipeline maintenance.
“As you can see, Anode Engineering’s culture of continuing to lead the market in technology advancements has been to our advantage in leading the way in pipeline integrity management.”
1500 ASME.
An 8-inch 600 ASA Argus pig launcher in blue complete with a multi pig launcher that allows 10 or more pigs to be remotely launched.
Tech delivering better projects
As industries balance labour shortages and increasing regulations, project managers are turning to smart trenchless technology to reduce project costs and maintain operational efficiency.
Trenchless technology offers a modern and efficient alternative to traditional excavation methods. Instead of labourintensive, time-consuming and disruptive digging, the latest trenchless solutions allow for the installation of new pipes with minimal surface disturbance and faster installation times.
As well as deploying state-of-the-art machinery, contractors wanting to stay ahead of the competition are constantly on the lookout for the latest technological solutions to complement their existing fleet.
By combining the latest in trenchless equipment technology with intelligent performance monitoring systems, operators can further speed up the project delivery, reduce environmental impacts, minimise the labour intensity of the work and often deliver a more cost-effective project in the long run.
As the development of automation and smart monitoring technology accelerates, companies that understand contractors’ needs and offer digital solutions to help them meet their goals position themselves as the go-to choice for equipment provision.
Smarter machine control
Vermeer, a leading machinery provider, is developing intelligent operation-monitoring capabilities for its range of equipment, simplifying operator control and improving machine automation – without losing its focus on safety and performance.
Vermeer is equipping its machinery with its SmartTEC performance software, which monitors and records machine performance. SmartTEC keeps track of operating statistics such as average per cent engine load, machine usage, attachment pressure and ground drive speed, giving contractors unparalleled visibility over the jobsite and equipment performance.
Despite the comprehensive monitoring and reporting, Vermeer’s SmartTEC-enabled machines feature a clean, easy-to-understand dash display that shows the status of most of the critical elements of machine performance, providing easy access to the information. This accessibility allows machine operators and managers to make well-informed, data-driven decisions and adjustments to the equipment’s operations to increase efficiency.
Data-driven operations
A key feature of SmartTEC is its ability to record data on a range of aspects of a machine’s usage, such as time spent in work mode, time spent moving and any adjustments made to machine equipment and operating parameters. This allows site managers to analyse the performance of equipment and machine operators and ensure that they are utilising the machine optimally. Additionally, the recordings can be used to inform ongoing training that can help operators to better understand the machine and how to control it.
proactive machine maintenance, allowing equipment managers to make informed maintenance decisions and minimise costs by reducing both the need for expensive repairs and the downtime of machines.
By using machines equipped with Vermeer’s intelligent machine monitoring software, project managers can improve the performance of their workforce, save money through well-informed proactive maintenance, and boost the operational efficiency of their machinery.
Images: Vermeer Australia
The T1055 Track Trencher.
The T1255 Surface Miner.
SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE
11th – 13th November 2024
Intercontinental Sydney
Come and join the 2-day global networking event from the 11th – 13th November 2024 at the Intercontinental Sydney showcasing a range of technical papers presenting by pipe experts from both Australian and around the world.
Full program is now available!
30 papers will be presented across 2 days covering topics including:
check Global Sustainability Insights
check The Environment and Water Security
check Design
check Innovation
check Hydrogen
check Recycling
check Case Studies
If you are a manufacturer or supplier of plastic pipes and fittings, equipment or a specifier, engineer, designer or end user of plastic pipe systems, this is the conference for you!
SPACERS AND CENTRALISERS
Think kwik-ZIP for pipeline projects
kwik-ZIP is delivering proven and high-quality casing spacers with its HD, HDX and HDXT series.
Manufactured from high grade thermoplastic, kwik-ZIP products are used and recommended by pipeline contractors, water and gas utilities, drilling companies and international engineering firms.
The use of kwik-ZIP products helps contractors to comply with the numerous regulations that require casing centralisers or pipe spacers (slippers or spiders), including wastewater and sewerage codes and well construction standards.
Since its inception in 2000, the company has been designing centralisers and spacers systems for a wide range of applications across many different industry sectors.
With warehouse facilities in Perth, Sydney, the UK and Texas, the company also has established stockists in Australia, the US, the UK and New Zealand markets.
“Our products are recommended, specified and used by pipeline and civil contractors, water and gas utilities, drilling companies and international engineering firms across the world,” kwik-ZIP General Manager Paul Jeffreys said.
kwik-ZIP’s HD and HDX/HDXT spacer system series are providing the pipeline sector with simple, cost-effective, and highquality solutions.
The HD and HDX/HDXT range are lead and metal-free, non-corrosive, chemical and oil resistant, and suitable for use on all pipe materials, including steel, ductile iron (DICL), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), concrete and mild steel cement lined (MSCL). They also have a quick and easy installation process, reduce point loading via a unique load sharing runner system, and minimise damaging vibration and movement transfer from outer casing to carrier pipe via suspension and dampening effect.
All kwik-ZIP spacers are designed to meet the requirements of Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) product specification 324 (casing spacers).
HD series
The HD series was designed for trenchless and cased crossings, slip lining, gravel packed well screens, pump torque arrestor, water well casing, coal seam methane casing, pump riser/ submersible pump installation, and piling. They come in four sizes, ranging from a 30mm bow up to a 100mm bow, and can be used for both vertical and horizontal applications.
The installation process is simple and efficient, requiring no special tools, and the curved bow spring design ensures that carrier pipes can easily ride over any protrusions.
HDX/HDXT series
The HDX and HDXT series spacers are designed for use on medium to heavy weight pipes in cased crossings. They can be utilised on a wide range of pipe material including steel DICL, HDPE, concrete and MSCL carrier pipes, minimising running friction between the carrier pipe and the casing during installation.
The HDX casing spacer comes in four runner heights, 38mm, 65mm, 90mm and 125mm. The HDXT casing spacer also comes in five runner heights, 43mm, 58mm, 63mm, 103mm and 153mm.
Images: kwik-ZIP
HDXT-63 installed on a 1829mm outside diameter Sintakote steel MSCL pipe.
HD series utilised for an open bore installation.
The HDXT-58W is also compatible with the kwik-ROLLER which is a non-metallic roller assembly designed to provide an alternative spacer solution to long-run slip lining installations where the reduction of any sliding friction is critical.
The different runner heights across the two models ensures that pipeline installers can handle various combinations of carrier and casing sizes and customise pipe position for grade control or ‘centring’.
HDXT-153 spacers were installed as part of significant rail project in WA. They were utilised to facilitate the slip-lining of a 180mm polyethylene water main into a casing for a cased crossing. The HDXT-153 was chosen to ensure the stability of the water main and preclude any movement.
This highlights kwik-ZIP’s ability to provide an off the shelf solution, irrespective of the requirements because of its wide range of products and options.
“kwik-ZIP spacers are simple and quick to install and assist with the slip-lining process while ensuring protection of the carrier pipe,”
As
In Australia, this includes names such as Sydney Water, Melbourne Retail Water Agencies (MRWA), Queensland Urban Utilities (QUU) and Watercorp.
BUILDING A WAYBetter FOR 70 YEARS
Mcelroy has a Long
of redefining pipe fusion. Throughout the years, we’ve streamlined jobsite efficiency and safety with equipment like the TracStar® – the world’s first self-contained, track-mounted fusion machine in 1997. Today, the latest evolution of the TracStar line, the TracStar iSeries, transforms the jobsite once again by offering customized levels of operator control, built-in data logging, and more.
Learn more about the TracStar iSeries and see the entire fusion machine lineup at
GM Microtunnelling Managing Director Gary Miller said of his experience with kwik-ZIP.
a testament to their quality, kwik-ZIP products are approved for use by many utilities.
HD-50 spacers on a diameter nominal 560 HDPE pipe, being installed inside a diameter nominal 700 mild steel pipe.
A killer combo
Equipment hire and sales company Austrack Equipment recently unveiled two new initiatives set to shake up the pipeline industry.
Attendees to the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Convention, which took place in Adelaide in October, can all attest to one fact: there was no missing Austrack Equipment’s impressive stand.
The company debuted its newly minted Hitachi ZX 170 SafeVac SV200 combination.
These lifting capacities, combined with the ground speed of the excavator, make this combination ideal for handling and placing HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipe. With minimal adjustments, the unit is also highly effective for lifting concrete slabs, steel plates, and a wide range of other materials within its
“Austrack’s SafeVac SV200 and Hitachi ZX170 are truly a killer combination, delivering unmatched performance and versatility in a range of lifting applications,” Austrack Equipment Managing Director Michael Benson said.
Like its big brother, the SV400, the SV200 is engineered to the highest performance and safety standards, fully compliant with the stringent EN 13155 European Standard.
A product of meticulous engineering, Austrack Equipment has customised the natural void in the dipper arm to function as a vacuum chamber, supplying the vacuum pressure required for lifting operations. This innovative design eliminates the need for a conventional spreader bar, offering significant weight-saving benefits.
Another key advantage of this design is that the vacuum tank in the dipper arm is positioned directly above the single vacuum shoe, ensuring rapid and secure engagement with lifted objects.
The SV200 is also equipped with the same advanced datalogging capabilities that have made the SV400 so highly valued. New to the SV200 and Hitachi ZX170 combo is the improved in-cabin system controller, which provides critical operational information to the operator such as vacuum pressure performance, pitch and roll data for the single shoe, which is all delivered in real time.
This also includes safety features such as comprehensive screen information, which removes the need for manual inspection of many features such as oil level; an audible alarm that warns of proximity of lifted pipe to cabin; and pre-start electronic logging.
Difco All-Star screening buckets
As impressive as the SV200 was up close, it wasn’t the only star of the show for Austrack Equipment. The company also seized the opportunity at the annual convention to announce its new partnership with a leading name in screening buckets in Europe.
Austrack Equipment is now the exclusive agent for Difco All-Star screening buckets in the Australian and New Zealand markets.
The buckets, which attach to skid steers, excavators, and diggers, are used to screen topsoil. This allows topsoil to be separated from heavier aggregates which, in the pipeline industry, makes for ideal pipe bedding and padding material.
Images: Austrack Equipment
The Hitachi ZX 170 and SafeVac SV200 combination.
Difco All-Star screening buckets.
market, the All-Star’s sifting components are constructed of high-grade polyurethane, making it incredibly light for its size. The other benefit of these replaceable plastic components is low operating noise, minimising the toll on workers, the environment, and surrounding community. Perhaps the All Star’s single most important benefit is that the units can be serviced on site, rather than the usual requirement of having to take them offsite to a workshop. That means less downtime and more efficiency.
bucket and sifter sizes, with sifter shafts ranging from 10mm to 50mm, and buckets from one tonne up to larger units suitable for 35-tonne diggers.
And now Difco has extended its range with the introduction of the 31-50-tonne bucket, ideal for Australian conditions where quality backfill and high material throughput are critical.
With single point greasing and shift change sifting shafts, All-Star buckets are simple and affordable to maintain.
bring these exciting products to the Australian market.
“Whether you're dealing with topsoil, stone, excavated spoil or even the toughest construction debris, this bucket is built to handle the most demanding environments,” he said.
“There’s no need for extra machinery or high transport costs – with just one operator and one machine, the All-Star gets the job done.”
With the SafeVac SV200 and an exclusive partnership with Difco under its belt, Austrack Equipment is poised for an exciting 2025.
In addition to topside handling capabilities, Pioneering Spirit is also one of the world’s largest pipelay vessels.
The leviathan
Meet Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit, the largest offshore construction vessel in the world, and the key to Esso’s plans to decommission several oil rigs in the Gippsland Basin.
After delivering energy to Australia for over 50 years, many of the Bass Strait oil fields are reaching the end of their productive life. That’s why Esso and parent company ExxonMobil have launched the first Gippsland Basin decommissioning campaign to lay these retired assets to rest.
The project entails the removal of the topsides of 12 facilities, the removal of two monotowers, and the removal of the upper jacket sections of 10 steel piled jacket facilities. All in all, that equates to around 60,000 tonnes (t) of steel.
Work will be conducted up to 77km offshore, in depths ranging from 38m–94m, with the
enormous structures to be offloaded to Barry Beach Terminal in southern Victoria, where they will be segregated and dismantled for recycling and disposal.
Esso has contracted Allseas Marine Contractors Australia for removal and transportation works, with preparation activities slated to commence in late 2026.
But how do you go about dismantling these massive structures in one of the world’s most notoriously rough stretches of ocean?
You call in the big guns.
Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit is the largest offshore construction vessel in the world.
Capable of lifting topsides of up to 48,000t in a single lift, she makes offshore installation and decommissioning easy, allowing the work to be moved onshore where it is safer and more cost-effective.
The gargantuan ship is 382m long and 124m wide. At the bow is a slot, 122m long and 59m wide, that enables Pioneering Spirit to manoeuvre around a platform for lifting and transportation, using eight sets of horizontal lifting beams.
Two additional lifting beams at the vessel’s stern enable the removal and installation of jackets up to 20,000t.
Complementing these lifting systems is specialpurpose crane with a lifting capacity of 5000t for lighter loads.
Pioneering Spirit has lifted well over 330,000t of lifted platforms since its launch in 2016, including the single-lift removal of Shell’s 24,000t Brent Delta platform in the North Sea, and the set down of Equinor’s 22,000t Johan Sverdup topsides in Norway.
And in 2027, she’s Australia-bound. The vessel is expected to be in the field for roughly four months, operating on a 24-hours-per-day basis.
But she won’t be coming alone. Pioneering Spirit will be preceded by a number of Allseas’ construction support vessels. While perhaps less glamourous than the record-breaking Pioneering Spirit, these ships are no less critical to the Gippsland decommissioning project. They will arrive in the field in 2026 to commence preparatory works.
Once removed and transported closer to shore, topsides and steel substructures will be carried by barge and tugboats to Barry Beach Marine Terminal, where the structures will be offloaded, segregated and dismantled for recycling and disposal.
“Esso will utilise its existing port facility at Barry Beach Marine Terminal, which has been part of South Gippsland’s industrial precinct for over six decades,” an Esso spokesperson told Australian Pipeliner
“The terminal was where the majority of our offshore platforms were constructed and significantly, this is where they will return to be recycled as a brand-new decommissioning industry is born in South Gippsland.
“Esso is excited by this opportunity to continue working with the Gippsland community and workforce. We are committed to developing the skills required for this decommissioning project, which will be the first of many similar projects to be completed across Australia.”
project’s proximity to a Ramsar-protected wetland, but Esso maintains that it is taking great care to minimise the risks.
“Following a thorough assessment of responsible decommissioning options and
stakeholder engagement, our plan delivers an equal or better environmental outcome and will see the vast majority of each of the steel platforms removed from Bass Strait,” Esso said.
“The platform structures … are over 95 per cent steel, all of which is planned to be recycled.
“All dismantling activities will be completed responsibly in full compliance with environmental regulations and in a timely manner.
“We have already safely completed over $1 billion of decommissioning work across our offshore operations, including the plug and abandonment of over 100 wells.”
As legacy oil and gas assets reach the end of their lifespans, industry will need to collaborate with regulators and other stakeholders to ensure decommissioning takes place in a timely and cost-effective manner with minimal impact on the environment.
And while the curtain closes on these Bass Strait rigs, the comeuppance of Gippsland’s decommissioning industry is proof that the close of one chapter is merely the beginning of another
Esso’s Fortescue platform in the Bass Strait, slated for decommissioning as part of the campaign.
Decommissioned structures will be offloaded to Barry Beach Terminal in southern Victoria
Image: Esso
Not just another risk assessment
APA Group Project Engineer Gretyl Lunn discusses psychological safety in a male-dominated workforce.
If you have a compressor station that is continually tripping, or a step where people keep falling, you would investigate. There are tools in place to keep risk as low as reasonably practical, mandated under workplace health and safety law. Now the same sentiment applies to psychological risks, mandated in almost all states in Australia since April 2023. While the conversation around psychological safety seems new, it is actually a very old one. It’s looking out for your mates and the people around you every day.
But what are psychosocial risks, and why is it important to acknowledge the different experiences of men and women when assessing them?
Psychological hazards, as outlined in Safework Australia’s ‘Managing psychosocial hazards at work’, include:
• Poor support: Inadequate support from supervisors or coworkers. This includes providing assisting with work tasks, giving advice, listening to concerns.
• Poor organisational justice: The perceived fairness of the outcome when resolving complaints and allocating resources.
• Low job control: being able to influence what happens in the work environment and make decisions.
• Harassment, including sexual harassment: Harmful behaviour that does not amount to bullying (such as single instances) but creates a risk to health or safety.
• Conflict or poor workplace relationships and interactions: This includes excluding or isolating a worker from work-related activities and poor workplace relationships and interpersonal conflict.
Just like for physical hazards, some workers are at greater risk from psychosocial hazards. Young workers are more likely to be inexperienced and may not be able to identify harmful behaviours or have the confidence to report them.
The same goes for women in male-dominated fields. Poor supervisory relationships, as well as lack of perceived fairness and voice, are the most frequently cited reasons that drive women in science and technology to leave at higher rates than men (53 per cent for women and 31 per cent for men).
Additional barriers, exacerbating the hazard, limit their ability to navigate report or mitigate these risks. These barriers include:
• Underrepresentation and isolation: Women in male-dominated occupations often experience a heightened sense of attention, and a greater risk of social isolation.
• Power imbalance: Hierarchical structures where women may be outnumbered, particularly in leadership or decision-making roles, can make it difficult to raise concerns or report psychological hazards.
• Lack of support network: Informal networks and mentorship are often vital for career progression and emotional support. In maledominated industries, women may struggle to find mentors or peer support, leaving them more isolated and vulnerable to psychosocial hazards like exclusion or harassment.
Risk is all about understanding the hazard.
A hazard can be understood through:
• Use of survey or onsite risk assessments to consult the workforce: Ensure that the minority in your workplace are captured in such risk assessments or surveys.
• Observe work behaviours: Psychological hazards could be identified by observing poor workplace behaviours, which could be a response to psychosocial hazards.
• Reporting mechanism and encourage reporting: If a worker is exposed harmful behaviours, they might not report it when the other person is in a position of authority or influence. Women are less likely to report psychological hazards due to the additional barriers faced in a maledominated workforce.
So how do we control and mitigate these risks? The biggest control we have in psychological safety is each other. Look out for your mates and reach out to everyone on site. While it may feel more comfortable to connect with people who share similar backgrounds or experiences, it's crucial to actively include everyone, especially women or newcomers who might be more vulnerable to isolation or exclusion.
The effectiveness of controls for psychological safety are dependant on active and engaged supervision and management. Psychological safety is particularly important to women’s employee engagement in male-dominated occupations because in these environments, female employees tend to be shut down, or when they are listened, they are less likely to be recognised for their contributions.
Everyone deserves to go home safe, both physically and mentally. By fostering a culture of respect, providing safe channels for reporting, and offering tailored support, organisations can create psychologically safe environments where everyone is empowered to succeed.
Psychological safety is particularly important to women’s employee engagement in maledominated occupations.
NO-DIG DOWN UNDER
South Australia’s energy dreams
South Australia could hold the key to cracking the clean hydrogen conundrum.
Speaking at the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Convention, South Australia Minister for Energy and Mining Tom Koutsantonis shed some light on the state’s energy ambitions.
In the realm of energy, South Australia has much to be proud of. The state shut down the last of its coal-fired power stations in 2016, and is now running off a mix of solar, wind and gas.
In fact, South Australia is on track to source 100 per cent of its electricity from renewables by 2030.
But Koutsantonis also noted that South Australia is often forced to switch off its renewable sources due to oversupply. While the state is home to the 150 megawatts (MW) Hornsdale power reserve – one of the largest battery storage facilities in the world – significant energy leakage remains.
To combat this, the state is turning to hydrogen.
“Hydrogen is a difficult and expensive fuel to manufacture, but in South Australia, we have an over-abundance of renewable energy,” Koutsantonis said.
“Instead of turning off renewable farms and rooftop solar, the question for us is: what can we do with this excess solar energy?
“Can we harness this energy and use it to manufacture a gas that is expensive to manufacture in every other jurisdiction in the world, and can we put it to use here?”
To this end, the South Australian Government has committed more than half a billion dollars to building the Whyalla Hydrogen Power Facility. This project includes constructing 250MW electrolysers – some of the world’s largest.
Minister for Energy and Mining Tom Koutsantonis.
Images: Glenn Hunt
Photographers and APGA
This also includes 200MW of power generation and a 100-tonne renewable hydrogen storage facility. Construction is scheduled for completion in early 2026.
The process of electrolysis involves using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The process is energy-intensive, which is one of the major hurdles with nascent hydrogen initiatives. However, Koutsantonis hopes that South Australia’s readily available solar energy may solve this problem.
When operational, Whyalla will play a major role in decarbonising Australia’s steel industry. Hydrogen can be used as a reductant in the steelmaking process to drive down carbon emissions.
While there has been talk about shipping Australian hydrogen overseas alongside other exports, Koutsantonis said it would better serve the domestic market.
“We believe you should use the hydrogen where you make it,” he said.
“Transporting hydrogen is too cost prohibitive today. It would be better for us to decarbonise the product at various levels here [on Australian soil], creating complex jobs, and then export that decarbonised product to the world.”
While Whyalla is some years off, the state is being proactive about its hydrogen usage.
“South Australia is currently running a trial on integrated hydrogen in the domestic gas distribution network,” Koutsantonis said.
“This means that there are homes in South Australia running off 20 per cent hydrogen as we speak, boiling their water, cooking their pasta, and being used in heating.”
To better enable the uptake of hydrogen and renewables, Koutsantonis and the Labor Goverment in South Australia introduced the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act in 2023, which collapsed six pieces of energy legislation into one.
“To lead the way, what we’ve done is introduce a regulatory framework that contemplates the future – that contemplates biofuels, geothermal, battery storage, and hydrogen.”
The Act is intended to streamline investment in large-scale energy projects, bringing issues such as land access, environmental impacts, and native titled rights into one framework.
While some jurisdictions are only tentatively committed to renewables, South Australia is all in. The state’s latest hydrogen initiative is certainly one to watch.
The Minister spoke at the official openining ceremony of the APGA Convention.
Hydrogen could be the key to decarbonising Australia. Image:
A meeting of minds
Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre CEO David Norman reflects on the widening breadth of Australia’s research.
This year’s APGA Convention in Adelaide was once again a great opportunity to share and discuss research with pipeliners across the industry. I was struck by the breadth of the discussions taking place with presenters from across our group of research participants sharing their perspectives on the future of our industry.
The event started with a keynote address from Tom Koutsantonis, SA Minister of Energy on South Australia’s energy strategy, who are leading the nation with their Whyalla Hydrogen project. As well as my keynote on renewable gas research, there were eight presentations from members from our wide community:
• Jarad IncInnes and Michael Baker, Jemena – Bridging industries for sustainable energy
• Owen Sharpe, AGIG – Hydrogen Park South Australia’s performance
• James Roberts, GPA Engineering – An invitation to the renewable generation
• Marion Erdelen, EPRG / ROSEN Group –Bridges and pipeline integrity engineering
• Carina Nixon, GPA Engineering and Robert Davis, AGIG – Compatibility of Type B appliances for use on hydrogen blends
• Klaas van Alphen, APA Group – Repurposing existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure
• James Czornohalan, Worley Consulting – The ammonia challenge
• Andrejs Atrens, the University of Queensland – First measurements of the influence of hydrogen on the fracture toughness of a X65 gas transmission pipeline steel.
I would also like to thank our long-time colleague Professor Carol Bond from RMIT University for her important presentation on gender diversity in the pipelines sector.
Just a few weeks before the APGA Convention our research partners were presenting at the key Australia Hydrogen Research Network in Perth. I was delighted to give a keynote presentation on the background, outcomes and impact of the Future Fuels CRC. The feedback received, especially from international delegates, on the unique breadth and focused outcomes of our work for current industry and infrastructure needs was invigorating. I would especially like to thank and celebrate the breadth and capability that our community brings to Australia’s decarbonisation efforts, including these presenters.
• Jordan McCollum, APGA – Economic analysis of gas use decarbonisation via
hydrogen and biomethane uptake
• Jacqueline Sutton, Lochard Energy – Selecting an underground hydrogen storage pilot site from existing gas storage facilities
• Sleiman Mhanna, University of Melbourne – Future electricity and hydrogen systems
• Neil Smith, University of Adelaide – The potential for hydrogen blending into gas pipelines
• Douglas Proud, University of Adelaide –Operation of existing and retrofitted gas appliances with blended and 100 per cent hydrogen
• Paul Medwell, University of Adelaide – What colour are hydrogen flames?
• Dennis Van Puyvelde, Energy Networks Association – A portfolio of policies to support renewable gas
• Sebastian Manjarres Espinosa, Deakin University – Interactions of hydrogen with plastic pipes and elastomers
• Mike Tan, Deakin University – Assessing hydrogen-induced pipeline steel deterioration and coating damage
• Thomas Anthony, University of Adelaide –Synthesis of green methanol from hydrogen and carbon dioxide using metal-organic framework derived catalysts
• Craig Clarke, APA Group – The application of
Australian and international research collaboration to Australia’s first natural gas to hydrogen transmission pipeline conversion project
• Amrita Kambo, University of Queensland – Communicating risks of hydrogen with respect to domestic use.
Sharing research is important, but real-world projects are even better, and I was delighted to spend the Friday before the convention with the team from AGIG as they launch their Hydrogen Park Murray Valley project in Albury and Wodonga. This $65.46 million project is supported by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Victorian Government with additional backing from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. The project will see the development of a 10MW electrolyser and associated equipment to produce renewable hydrogen. Initially, the facility will use renewable hydrogen for gas blending at up to 10 per cent by volume to start decarbonising the gas networks in the Albury Wodonga region with other potential uses to come later. Not only will this supply a portion of renewable gas to around 40,000 homes, but most importantly to over 50 major commercial and industrial customers. This significant project will have the largest electrolyser on the east coast of Australia at the time of its commissioning.
Norman said he was impressed by the breadth of research.
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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.
Lance McDonald has moved into the role of HDD Operations Manager at Boretech Contracting, with a focus on the mining division.
“Boretech Contracting’s primary focus is to install underground infrastructure by way of HDD works,” he said.
“We are expanding further into the
mining market, which brings with it challenges like remote worksites, weather and difficult ground conditions.
“With my previous experience, I’ve come on board to help our guys deliver safe and efficient works.”
McDonald, who has worked in the HDD industry since the early 2000s, said he has had dealings with Boretech throughout his career, and so was
NIAL BLAIR - CHAIR - SYDNEY WATER
Niall Blair is the new Chairperson of Sydney Water. The appointment follows Blair’s recent position as Director on the board of Sydney Water, with previous posts as NSW Minister for Water and involvement with Charles Sturt University. He replaces outgoing Chair Grant King after three years of service.
Blair brings a wealth of experience
from his involvement with boards, including the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, Cotton Regional Development Corporation, NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust, and Murrumbidgee Irrigation.
Blair said he is thrilled to enter the role and looks forward to continuing the former Chair’s legacy at Sydney Water.
“Sydney Water is at the forefront of development and change in Greater
KEVIN YOUNG - CHAIR - TASWATER CHAIR
Current board director
Kevin Young has been appointed as TasWater’s next chair, replacing outgoing Dr Stephen Gumley AO who has served in the Young brings a wealth of experience to the role, with more than 40 years in the water and sewerage industry in Australia.
“It’s an exciting time to be taking on the role of chair at TasWater as we have recently endorsed a bold and ambitious strategy for the next phase of the organisation’s growth,” he said.
“I’m passionate about the future of the state and the role our organisation can have in delivering great community, environmental and economic outcomes for Tasmania.
eager to work together in a more permanent capacity.
“There is a lot to look forward to in this role: the challenges of running remote jobs, bringing my own style of leadership to the group, assisting with the growth of others within this organisation, and most importantly, having some good laughs along the way.”
Sydney, with talented people working across the business to bring this vital utility service to our customers,” he said.
“Grant’s tenure has guided many substantial developments, such as the upcoming pricing proposal for the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
“I’m proud to help bring our vision and goals for the future of Sydney’s water to life.”
“We are well underway in developing our next Price and Service Plan for submission in June 2025.
“Our plan is to deliver a $1.9 billion capital program over the next five years that will bring real benefits to the community and environment, responding to climate change to secure water resources for the future, accommodate for growth and meet customer expectations.”
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: Kevin Young
Image: Niall Blair
Image:
Lance McDonald
WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER.
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