steel Australia - Vol 36 No 3

2023 AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION PLUS 2023 Vol. 36 | No. 3 ISSN 2208-7486 (online) ISSN 1447-5359 (print)

BEKAERT CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF HISTORY ENDURACLAD: GARAGE START-UP TO GLOBAL WEAR PLATE TITAN

1

AustralianSuper’s focus on reconciliation As Australia’s largest super fund with members from a diverse range of industries and cultures, we acknowledge our role in supporting an inclusive and diverse nation, where the cultural backgrounds of all peoples are recognised and respected.

Our vision for reconciliation is a national superannuation system that meets the financial, emotional and social needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through, to and in retirement.

AustralianSuper launched its second Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in July 2021. The Innovate RAP is helping to close the super gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous Australians.

It also supports building better relationships – with both fund members and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business community and service providers.

To support this, we’ve implemented the following support resources and programs:

Dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander phone based support A service provided by a dedicated team who have undergone cultural training.

The Schools Plus Financial Literacy program Providing a literacy program to selected schools in remote NT. The program helps improve basic understanding of finance and technology.

AustralianSuper intern program Sponsoring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students with a 10-week paid internship.

Helping achieve better outcomes Campaigning government policies that improve super outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait.

Take the first steps to sorting your super, with a fund that’s helping all Australians live well in retirement.

Learn more about our Reconciliation Action Plan at australiansuper.com/superannuation/superannuation -articles/2022/05/reconciliation-action-plan

Read the PDS and TMD at australiansuper.com Sponsored by AustralianSuper Pty Ltd ABN 94 006 457 987, AFSL 233788, Trustee of AustralianSuper ABN 65 714 394 898.

Vol. 36 No. 3 2023 ASI HEAD OFFICE

10 CONTENTS

Suite G1, Ground Floor 25 Ryde Road Pymble, NSW 2073 T: (02) 8748 0180 E: enquiries@steel.org.au W: https://www.steel.org.au

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS Message from the chief executive

ASI STATE OFFICES

New South Wales and ACT David Varcoe on 0419 136 720 Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia Sulfianda Soeleiman on 0437 594 571 Western Australia James England on 0423 614 860 Queensland and Northern Territory John Gardner on 0418 788 870 ShedSafe Neil Creek on 0407 107 415

STEEL AUSTRALIA CONTACTS

Managing editor Steve Andrew on 0473 480 964 or stevena@steel.org.au Editor Sally Wood on sally@wordly.com.au Advertising NK Media, Nicole Prioste on 0410 618 331 or nicole@nkmedia.com.au

14 20

DISCLAIMER

While every effort has been made and all reasonable care taken to ensure the accuracy of the material contained herein, the Publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in this publication, or from the use of the information contained herein, and the Publisher makes no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein.

Message from the chair

5

Valiant and Katana system by Ficep

6

Introducing Choice Energy

7

Combilift celebrates 25 years

8

New Beenleigh steel facility is building Queensland's future

9

Bekaert celebrates 100 years of history

10

Enduraclad: from garage start-up to global wear plate titan

14

Benefits of active super management

18

Solid to the core: celebrating Galserv's 60-year legacy

20

Tasmania's steel leaders: Crisp Bros. & Haywards

23

FEATURE: 2023 AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION

26

An overview

26

Choose Steel as a career

30

2023 sponsors and exhibitors

32

INSIDE THE ASI

New ASI members

32 23

4

CONTENTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

steel Australia

34

ASI library and bookshop update

35

Upcoming ASI events

35

COPYRIGHT

Reproduction of the material is permitted only with the express permission of the Publisher and due acknowledgment of steel Australia.

ABOUT THE ASI

steel Australia is published by the Australian Steel Institute (ASI)—the peak national body of the steel industry.

The ASI works to increase the awareness of the benefits of steel and promote Australian made steel as the material of choice. Increasing the competitiveness of the Australian steel industry and its member companies is central to that vision. The organisation conducts engineering seminars and disseminates relevant, timely and detailed information. Expert technical advice, a library and a resource centre are available to all members, along with a range of other member benefits. For information, visit: steel.org.au

30

Cover image: 2023 Australian Steel Convention.

Story on page 26.

3

Plaza Ballroom

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S MESSAGE Australian Steel Convention a great success

Two hundred and forty delegates enjoyed the ASI's 2023 Australian Steel Convention in Melbourne. Our theme this year was Choose Steel. This was particularly relevant in times of uncertain global economic conditions and skills shortages, which the ASI is addressing through its strong focus on careers and training.

Sponsored by Combilift, the welcome reception was held at Old Melbourne Goal, with drinks and canapes served in the gaol where Australian bushranger Ned Kelly lived his final days. Sponsored by BlueScope, the convention dinner was held at the Plaza Ballroom. With the ballroom's unique Spanish Rococo architecture and original chandeliers, it was a memorable evening of delicious food.

Day one opened with an address by Federal Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic, followed by talks on economic challenges facing the industry, a panel discussion on the ASI's Choose Steel campaign to boost the use of steel in home renovations, and customer perspectives in construction. Keynote speakers included Justin Jones, an adventurer and documentary maker who delved into 'adventure thinking' and lessons learnt from the edge.

Project case studies were also back by demand, showcasing the innovative solutions across a myriad of project applications and steel product groups, including Allianz Stadium, the 308 Exhibition Street Skybridge, and a look at innovative cold formed steel structures.

Highlights from day two included an address by Federal Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor followed by talks on leadership and people strategies and a panel exploring new pathways for young people in steel. We wrapped the convention with forums for roll formers, fabricators and the ACMA AGM and forum. For further information, see the article on page 26.

ASI fabricators enjoy FABTECH 2023 in Chicago

The ASI-organised fabricators trip to the FABTECH expo and conference in Chicago was a great success. Focused on the metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing disciplines, FABTECH featured 1,500 exhibitors and crowds of up to 50,000 people.

The Australian group were guests at a dinner hosted by the American Institute of Steel Construction. Issues such as labour shortages, training and industry promotion were

Mark Cain, chief executive of the Australian Steel Institute

discussed. Impact Machinery and Peddinghaus hosted a bus tour of several fabricators, along with a visit to Lambeau Field—the home of the Green Bay packers NFL team.

The ASI would like to thank Anton Peddinghaus, Eric Newberry and Paul Mazza from Peddinghaus for arranging and guiding the visits; Rob Clark, Darren Harmsworth and Peter Mazza from Impact Machinery for chaperoning the group; and Todd Alwood of the AISC for arranging dinner.

Steel Sustainability Awards

Entries are closing soon for the new Steel Sustainability Awards. Presented by the ASI, the awards provide an outstanding opportunity to showcase the achievements of the end-to-end supply chain including architects, designers, engineers, steel manufacturers, distributors, fabricators, processors, builders and constructors in delivering steelrelated solutions that result in positive sustainable impact across two broad focus areas; • •

Use of steel in building and construction projects Company steel-related initiatives

The awards will be presented online in early 2024. ASI would like to thank to our sponsors, including: Major Sponsor BlueScope; Sponsor Liberty; Category Sponsor AA Steel Works; and Distributor Sponsors, BlueScope Distribution, Calibre Steel, GAM Steel Service, InfraBuild, Orrcon Steel, Southern Steel, United Steel and Vulcan.

I've learned that the key to success in the steel industry is hard work and diligence. This means that anyone can be successful in the steel industry, no matter their social or academic background.

Just look at my career: when I was in Year 10, unemployment hit Newcastle in a profound way. We were encouraged to leave school and find work wherever we could. And so, I started my career as an apprentice electrical fitter/mechanic at Newcastle Steelworks. I studied at night for years, eventually gaining a masters degree.

Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work in Australia, the United States, and across Asia. I've held management positions with several of Australia's largest steel companies including Smorgon Steel Tube Mills, BlueScope and Orrcon Steel. And today I am the chair of the ASI. Choosing a career in steel is not just about opting for a job—it's embracing a future filled with potential. From research and development, to the architectural wonders we construct, steel offers a world of opportunity.

As an industry, we need to demonstrate the wideranging opportunities for young people in steel—growth opportunities, a high degree of job security, and a raft of other benefits. I am doing my utmost best to make sure the younger generations have all the opportunities that were made available for me. I am focused on making sure that they know that a career in steel can help make their aspirations a reality.

Tony Schreiber, chair of the Australian Steel Institute

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

CHAIR'S MESSAGE

As professionals within the Australian steel supply chain, we have witnessed the highs and lows of our industry. Yet, through resilience and innovation, we have consistently risen to every challenge. This is another one of those defining moments where we reassert the value of steel not just as a building material, but as the bedrock for a resilient, sustainable future, and a rewarding career for future generations.

As the theme of this year's Steel Convention encouraged: together, let's Choose Steel. Let’s choose ambition, resilience, and a brighter future for all.

5

VALIANT AND KATANA SYSTEM BY FICEP INTEGRATED DRILLING AND CUTTING FOR STEEL CONSTRUCTION For the steel construction industry, automation and process efficiency are crucial when it comes to meeting high quality standards. Ficep, a global leader in automatic steel processing, addresses these needs via its combined system featuring the Valiant drilling unit and the Katana band saw.

workpiece stability, motor power, band saw blade rotation speeds, and automated handling phases. These functions deliver high speeds, as well as high standard cuts. FICEP's new direct drive spindles transmit 100% of the motor power to the tool, resulting in even higher processing performance.

Process speed: optimising productivity

Complementary axis: maximum precision and flexibility

One standout feature of the Valiant and Katana system is its exceptional process speed, afforded by advanced automation and technology. Total process time is significantly reduced, particularly compared to scenarios that rely on specialised labour during the finishing phases. The process is highly controllable and predictable, aiding production planning. In addition to drilling, the Valiant can be used for automatic marking and milling operations. After leaving the drilling line, only welding remains before the final painting phase.

With the Katana, operators can swiftly execute straight and mitered cuts up to 60° while maintaining very high levels of precision and quality.

The Katana saw features horizontal and vertical hydraulic clamps that maximise

The sub-axis on all three spindles of the Valiant drilling centre is crucial for ensuring maximum precision and flexibility in operations. This feature allows simultaneous drilling on various profile surfaces, even if there are misaligned holes. The lower scribing device, also equipped with a complementary axis, enables simultaneous scribing on all four sides of the profile. This versatility facilitates a wide range of applications and complex operations.

Automatic 14-position tool changer: 360-degree versatility Another strong point of the combined system is the automatic 14-position tool change system on each Valiant spindle. This enables a wide array of uninterrupted operations, boosting efficiency and minimising setup times.

The multi-functionality and versatility

of Valiant, combined with the cutting precision and productivity of the CNC automatic band saw Katana, allow a single operator to complete numerous tasks in one pass, bypassing labourintensive and hazardous handling phases.

Rapid installation without costly civil works

Installation of the combined Valiant and Katana system does not require expensive civil works. This translates into significant time and cost savings, accelerating production and minimising downtime. The system is ready to use in record time.

Full automation with remote app control

One of the most significant strengths of the Valiant and Katana system is the possibility of full automation.

With remote control via a mobile app, operators can monitor and manage the system from anywhere, at any time. This functionality optimises production outside of working hours and during downtime, ensuring maximum operational efficiency.

This article was supplied as part of an advertising package.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

INTRODUCING CHOICE ENERGY With energy prices soaring, ASI is offering members a new service to cut costs. A partnership with Australian-owned and operated energy consultancy Choice Energy offers members a range of packages to slash energy bills, consume less power and reduce their carbon footprint.

WHO IS CHOICE ENERGY?

Australian Steel Institute corporate partner Choice Energy is an independent award-winning Australian energy consultancy and service provider specialising in energy procurement, energy efficiency and end-to-end quality commercial solar solutions.

For over a decade, Choice Energy has helped over 8,000 customers reduce energy costs, increase energy efficiency and drive sustainability.

Their team of experts harnesses years of energy industry experience and breakthrough procurement technology to deliver unparalleled results across multiple business sectors Australia-wide.

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT Optimising your energy efficiency and reducing your energy costs

At a time of unprecedented energy market volatility and price hikes, businesses have been turning to Choice Energy to tender, manage and monitor energy efficiency 24x7 and reduce grid energy costs. By working with an independent energy company, their customers can navigate the complexities of the energy market with a trusted partner.

When a business chooses to partner with Choice Energy, they gain an energy advocate for life. Their team, backed by advanced procurement technology, and ongoing analytics optimises procurement, continuously manages and monitors errors, and identifies new ways to save costs.

Working with Choice Energy customers are guaranteed: • One point-of-contact for business energy needs • Tailored energy-saving solutions • Independent experts with no bias • Ongoing analytics and market insights

COMPREHENSIVE SOLAR SOLUTIONS

incrementally, reducing each year in value. The switch to solar has made sense because: • Solar with Choice Energy is a cash flow positive solution • Through solar, customers pay the same amount or less for electricity and leverage the savings to fund the system • Requires little to no budget to get started

Empowering you with solar energy and a sustainability roadmap

FURTHER INFORMATION

With the onset of ongoing energy market volatility, electricity price spikes and an El Nino year ahead businesses can expect to see drastic changes to expenses over the coming years. The switch to solar has reduced Choice Energy's customers' reliance on a fluctuating wholesale energy market and beefed up their competitiveness.

Government rebates and commercial solar tax deductions are a powerful benefit, but they are being phased out

For more, visit: choiceenergy.com.au.

For a no-obligation assessment of your energy and solar opportunities contact alex.townsend@choiceenergy.com.au and mention you are an ASI member.

This article was supplied as part of an advertising package.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CHOICE ENERGY >>>

WEBINAR: 2024 ENERGY MARKET OUTLOOK FOR BUSINESS Wednesday 22 November | 11am To save your spot for an exclusive webinar on the 2024 solar and energy outlook, register online now.

Expert speakers include: Phil Casey (ASI), Dr Ron Ben-David (Monash University), Dan Plimak (Energetica) and Chris Dean and Alan Gill (Choice Energy).

REGISTER NOW

7

COMBILIFT CELEBRATES 25 YEARS WITH THREE EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS Combilift, a prominent global manufacturer of multidirectional forklifts and a leader in long load handling solutions, recently marked a significant milestone in its journey: 25 years in business. To commemorate this achievement, the company unveiled three groundbreaking products that highlight its commitment to innovation and excellence. These new offerings are designed to address the unique challenges faced by various industries, from offshore wind to warehousing and fleet management.

Combi-LC: revolutionising offshore wind handling

One of Combilift’s most exciting product launches is the Combi-LC Blade Mover, a testament to the company’s expanding horizons. This innovative solution marks Combilift’s entry into the offshore wind sector, where it aims to cater to the load handling demands of large-scale offshore wind manufacturers.

Developed at Combilift’s headquarters and manufacturing plant in Monaghan, Ireland, in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, the Combi-LC is poised to transform the offshore wind industry.

The Combi-LC has been meticulously designed to facilitate the seamless movement of wind turbine blades and towers through various production stages and onto storage locations. Its ability to handle oversized products with precision and safety makes it an indispensable asset for offshore wind projects, contributing to greater efficiency and productivity.

The Combi-LC

Combi-AGT: autonomous guided forklift excellence

The Combi-AGT autonomous guided forklift truck is engineered to revolutionise the way long loads are handled in narrow aisles. It can operate in guided aisles, ensuring optimal space utilisation, and can also roam freely when necessary. It offers users the flexibility of manual driving when required, making it a versatile solution. A 4-wheel electric stand-on sideloader, the Combi-AGT harnesses smart technology to meet customer demands for driverless sideloader capability with a capacity of 5,000kg.

This enhanced adaptive safety system enables the size of the obstacle detection fields to increase or decrease as per the steer angle and speed of the truck. The patent pending load dimension detection system operates by performing a laser scan of the load to check that its length matches the task sent to the machine.

Combi Connect: telematics for enhanced fleet management

Combi Connect is a telematics software product designed to provide customers with invaluable insights into fleet management and usage. Real-time data is a game-changer in the world of logistics and material handling, and Combi Connect delivers exactly that. This telematics solution offers comprehensive information on fleet performance, including location tracking, usage analytics, and maintenance alerts. With this data readily available, businesses can make informed decisions to improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall performance. Combi Connect represents a significant step forward in fleet management technology, supporting organisations in optimising their material handling processes. Embark on a journey toward enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and elevated safety with Combi Connect.

The Combi-AGT

Beenleigh Steel Fabrications recently opened its new facility in Berrinba, Queensland. The $12 million facility has doubled the company’s production capacity and created at least 59 new jobs, including new apprenticeships and traineeships.

With the support of the Queensland Government’s $175 million Jobs and Regional Growth Fund, Beenleigh Steel fast-tracked its much-needed expansion.

Beenleigh Steel had outgrown its Creastmead facility after securing contracts for the Cross River Rail, Queen’s Wharf Terminal and Kangaroo Point Green Bridge. The new modern, fit-for-purpose facility at Berrinba in Logan has doubled Beenleigh Steel’s floor space and production capacity.

According to Beenleigh Steel Fabrications director Anthony Stoeckert,“Everyone at Beenleigh Steel is thrilled to have moved into the new facility and to be fully operational."

"We’re already experiencing notable productivity gains thanks to the new, state-of-the-art equipment, and the sustainability features and extra floor space will be a gamechanger for us into the future."

“We’ve worked hard over the past 40 years to build a solid reputation in the industry by being innovative and client-focused, and we’re expecting our growth trajectory to more than double into the future. Logan has always been our home and we’re excited to be launching into this new phase of growth still firmly embedded in our local community.”

The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Federal Treasurer and Member for Rankin Dr Jim Chalmers and Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick.

According to Cameron, “The Palaszczuk Government is proud to have supported this respected Logan-based company’s expansion. Beenleigh Steel has helped create Queensland landmarks such as Suncorp Stadium, North Queensland

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

NEW BEENLEIGH STEEL FACILITY IS BUILDING QUEENSLAND’S FUTURE

Stadium, the Cairns Convention Centre, the Jubilee Place and Cross River Rail."

“The Palaszczuk Government’s Jobs and Regional Growth Fund strategically supported Beenleigh Steel knowing the construction of a new facility would provide a boost to the local economy at a time when it was much needed."

“Importantly, the 59 new jobs will have a positive flow-on effect for the Logan community, especially for Logan’s young people who may be looking to start their career through a traineeship or apprenticeship in a solid trade where there will be great prospects well into the future.”

Established in 1980, Beenleigh Steel Fabrications supply, fabricate and erect medium to heavy structural steel, servicing both the public and private sectors. The company’s steel has been a foundation for Queensland landmarks for the past 40 years.

Just some of the large-scale projects in which Beenleigh Steel Fabrications has been involved include the Queensland State Velodrome in Brisbane, the $1 billion Jewel Development on the Gold Coast, the Brisbane Casino Towers and the $800 million 300 George Street development in Brisbane.

In 2018, Beenleigh Steel Fabrications achieved a Construction Category 3 rating under the National Structural Steel Work Compliance Scheme (NSSCS), making the company the first fabricator in Queensland to achieve this level of certification.

9

BEKAERT CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF HISTORY

Bekaert is the world’s premier ropes and advanced cords solutions provider. 2023 marks 100 years of specialised experience in steel wire and synthetic rope solutions in Australia. Serving thousands of customers globally and with 17 manufacturing locations around the world, the company’s rope products are designed for some of the most demanding applications across a wide range of industries.

Bridon-Bekaert The Ropes Group was founded in 2016 as a result of a merger between the Bridon Group and the ropes business of Bekaert.

Together an unrivalled partnership was created – capitalising on a strong vision, purposeful goals, and centuries of combined expertise and technology leadership.

However, as director Steve Hennessey explained, the company has a long and distinguished pedigree that extends much further back than 2016.

"In May 1920, it was reported that two British investors had met authorities in Melbourne and visited Newcastle with the intention of establishing a works for the manufacture of wire rope products in Newcastle. It was billed as the first of its kind in the Commonwealth. There were some very big names in the rope

to stay within the steel industry. As a result, women filled many vacancies.

To meet the added needs of the defence forces, weekly production was increased to 130 tonnes and rising," Steve said.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

“

Through the many historical sources, it is very evident that... we have survived where many didn’t. This is not from having fantastic equipment or an enviable location. It is because we have—and have always had—an incredible team of hard-working, 'can-do' people with the ropeworks loyalty and spirit."

Playing a role in nation building

In these early years, the company was involved in major nationbuilding projects, such as the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

"In 1951, via distributor Bullivants, large and ongoing orders were received for supply to the Snowy Hydro project, which, at the time, was consuming much of New South Wales' capital resources."

industry behind the effort, including Haggie and Bullivant and Co." "In 1923, the business that 100 years later would become Bekaert Wire Ropes was registered as Australian Wire Ropes Works."

"Cleverly, that same year, the tariff board was lobbied and a tiered duty system was implemented on imports starting in 1923 to prevent prejudice against locally made products to encourage local manufacturing," Steve said.

During 1924, with the assistance of British Ropes, the first stage of the factory was built and commissioned, and the first ropes produced. In early 1925, the first locally manufactured ropes (made from imported British steel wire) went to market.

"Output for the first six months was around 200 tonnes. Today we target more than that every week Before the first six months of production was complete, an additional seven rope making machines had been ordered."

"After a turbulent few years of feed shortages and trade decline, the first formal supply agreement was signed with Rylands Bros in late 1926, Rylands were a local nail and wire manufacturer. This was the beginning of the InfraBuild relationship that is still in place today. By 1933, BridonBekaert was a fully-owned subsidiary of BHP. Improvements in wire quality

by Rylands Bros was providing improved wire rope performance capabilities."

"With the outbreak of WWII, many of our employees had either enlisted, were drafted, or had been mandated

With BHP consolidating its operations in 1958, Australian Wire Rope Works became a part of the Australian Wire Industries. The mining boom of the 1970s saw the company invest over $1.5 million in advanced machinery and additional capabilities. Incredibly, this decision proved pivotal as it provided the equipment that enabled the ropeworks to be one of the leading mining rope manufacturers into the next century.

"The quality of this machinery is evident with some still operating today, having been upgraded with the latest electrical and safety technology."

A new chapter

A new chapter began in the year 2000 when, as part of the BHP spin off, the business became known as OneSteel Wire Rope.

"In 2002, the ropeworks became the recipient of one of OneSteel’s early

11

large investments. At the time, market trends had indicated that eight strand ropes would become the dominant mining rope product. To meet the expected demand, the rope closing machine CM3 was designed and installed at a cost of over $15 million dollars. It was commissioned in 2004."

"This cutting-edge machine provided capability for production parcels up to 150 tonnes in diameters of up to a massive 200mm. This significant step forward in ropemaking technology has proven visionary and one of today’s business’s biggest strengths,” Steve said.

In 2007, at a cost of $7 million, another game changing technology was developed. An extrusion line for the production of polymer impregnated ropes was installed, which provided the capability for today's very highperformance shovel rope products.

In 2010, the company became part of the global mining consumables business of Moly-Cop. "After significant research and development, in 2013, the Raptek facility was opened for the manufacture of a revolutionary new dragline rope

product that significantly improved safety for our customers' maintenance personnel," Steve said.

"In 2015, Arrium sold the business, and it became the sole Australian facility for global Belgian wire manufacturer Bekaert. A year later, a merger with English ropemaker Bridon International brought us together, creating one of the largest rope manufacturers globally."

Australian-made high performance steel wire ropes

Today, Bekaert provides steel wire ropes for some of the world’s largest companies across every industry – including onshore and offshore oil and gas, underground and surface mining, cranes and industrial, structures, fishing and marine, cableways and forestry.

The company offers a broad range of high-performance mining products on a short lead time. In addition to rope manufacturing, they also custom design rope solutions, provide rope inspection services and technical support, and have a NATA-accredited testing laboratory.

Bekaert relies on Australian suppliers throughout their supply chain with little imported or recycled steel

in their ropes. Their products are made from InfraBuild or Bekaert wire and transformed by the company's sophisticated facilities in Newcastle by a 155 person team.

“We have an eight-strand 150 tonne capacity rope making machine with capability that extends up to 200mm diameter ropes. We also have a polymer injection line capable of producing 130mm diameter ropes," Steve said.

Bekaert has an in-house team of technical experts and engineers that is on-hand to assist all their customers.

As Steve explains, this delivers even greater value to their customers, "Our team of in-house engineers designs all of our ropes. This means that they have an in-depth understanding of the capabilities of our ropes. So, when customers require good advice, we have the right people."

While most of the industry was downsizing during the pandemic, Bekaert invested in cutting-edge technology to support its growing operations. In 2021, they opened a new market in port and tower cranes with the installation of a state-of-the-art service centre that delivers the capability to cut, terminate, and test products

The Bekaert Technology Centre (BBtec) is equipped with unique equipment for testing steel and synthetic ropes and wires. It has extensive forensic analysis laboratory facilities and specialists capable of conducting detailed forensic evaluation of new or retired ropes.

“BBtec is our centre of excellence for rope technology development, testing, analysis and verification.

BBtec accelerates Bekaert’s new product development, involving the latest rope technologies to increase safety, performance and operational life of ropes working in demanding and hostile environments typical to our core markets in the oil and gas, mining, and construction sectors," Steve said.

Ready for the next century

After 100 years of delivering quality products, Bekaert shows no signs of slowing down – with major plans to make the most of emerging opportunities in the steel industry.

In line with their vision for the future, the company is investing in a further upgrade of their facilities, to increase its capabilities to cut and terminate high performance Bridon ropes, typically for crane and winching applications, as well as provide ongoing development of polymer infused ropes.

“Through the many historical sources, it is very evident that although we have been through the highs of prosperity and lows of wars, the odd financial crisis and even pandemics, we have survived where many didn’t," Steve said.

"This is not from having fantastic equipment or an enviable location.

It is because we have—and have always had—an incredible team of hard-working, 'can-do' people with the ropeworks loyalty and spirit."

"We proudly produce standardsetting Australian made products that are exported all over the world from right here in Newcastle. We aren't done yet. We plan to be here for another 100 years," Steve said.

Bekaert's Ropes360 Service

Bekaert offers a Ropes360 service— complete solutions and support designed to maximise on-site safety for their customers and the operational life of ropes. Dedicated rope technicians and engineers offer services such as: • Post-retirement rope analysis • Rope condition assessment, inspections and non-destructive examination • Forensic investigation • Rope mechanical, torque-turn and bending fatigue testing • Destruction testing and wire tensile testing • Multi-layer spooling (MLS) testing • Post-retirement examination • Rope life predictability.

Bekaert has helped numerous customers implement and manage comprehensive rope inspection programs to avoid the high costs associated with equipment downtime.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

manufactured by sister Bekaert factories.

When a rope needs repair or maintenance, Ropes360 provides failure criteria and rope maintenance training to ensure optimum safety and rope life.

“

We proudly produce standardsetting Australian made products that are exported all over the world from right here in Newcastle. We aren't done yet.

We plan to be here for another 100 years.”

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BEKAERT & THEIR CAPABILITIES >>>

13

ENDURACLAD: FROM GARAGE START-UP TO A GLOBAL WEAR PLATE TITAN Enduraclad has emerged as Australia’s fastest-growing wear plate manufacturer, offering high-quality products such as chromium carbide, ceramic, and steel components to the global resources sector. In just over a decade, the company has transitioned from a humble start in Jason Kell’s garage using borrowed equipment to a global frontrunner in wear plate manufacturing. The key to this meteoric rise? A commitment to innovation, quality, and above all, its people.

Enduraclad is Australia’s fastestgrowing wear plate manufacturer of high-quality products, supplying chromium carbide, ceramic and steel components to the global resources industry. Starting with borrowed tools just 12 years ago, the company has kept a steady focus on innovation and reliability – enabling resource businesses to reduce the wear and tear on their material handling machinery.

Now sought out by mines around the world, Enduraclad’s range has grown to meet the strong demand for premium products managed to world-class standards. But according to founder and managing director Jason Kell, the company’s secret ingredient is its people.

“Anyone can produce what we do,”

Jason said. “However, it’s the culture that is led into the team that makes it successful. On top of this, Enduraclad makes really good quality products.

We take great pride in making something better than what we have done in the past.”

opportunity to deliver an urgent supply of mining wear parts. “Many items I could produce myself within two to three days,” he said. “The mining clients were waiting six to eight weeks from the current companies providing the same products.”

From humble beginnings to industry leader

Today, Enduraclad is a leading provider of Australian manufacturing wear resistant products used in mining and civil applications. From its original staff of one, the company now employs 80 people in four locations across Western Australia, as well as a 10-person team in its Queensland branch. Enduraclad’s range of premium products include extra thick chrome carbide and tungsten carbide overlay products.

Looking at Enduraclad’s position as a global leader in its field, it is hard to believe that the company began in Jason’s home garage in 2011 with equipment he didn’t even own. “I started this business to fill a gap in the mining wear parts industry,” Jason explained.

Recognising that clients were often waiting months for products to be manufactured, Jason saw an

These have a long life span of up to three years in many mining applications,

“Enduraclad is considered a supplier of choice to Australian and worldwide mining clients. We manufacture wear resistant products which protect mining assets from abrasion, impact, and corrosion – giving the asset a much longer life span than it would without protection,” Jason said.

Putting people first

Behind Enduraclad’s products is a dedicated team of employees determined to produce bigger, better, and faster manufactured items to meet a growing need. As the business continues its rise to the top, Jason firmly believes that it is only as strong as the people who make up its team.

“Each team member has contributed to Enduraclad’s success,” Jason said.

That’s why he works hard to foster a positive working culture that draws his staff closer together, and enables them to thrive professionally and personally.

“Simple things like monthly barbecues for time out and socialising are important in the business, as well as encouragement for work/life balance.”

Employees enjoy additional benefits such as flexible working hours and work from home arrangements. They also have permission to get outside and walk or jog for 30 minutes during paid hours, whether on the day shift or night shift, as an opportunity to exercise or simply refresh the mind.

In the workplace, everyone is encouraged to contribute their ideas, with rewards often given out for the best ones as well as monthly employee recognition. The end result is that every team member feels comfortable speaking out and feels that they are heard.

“Staff feel relaxed enough to approach management at all times with issues they may have,” Jason said.

Enduraclad is also an avid supporter of providing opportunities to people with

disabilities, developing employment and training programs to break down barriers to entry in the workforce.

“I believe disability is just a label,” Jason said. “Everyone has skills that are valuable, it is just a matter of matching their skills to the working environment. We have actively sought to improve Enduraclad International’s training programs with the aim of employing more people with disabilities.”

Driven by a passion for innovation

To support its growing operations, the company has built world-class manufacturing facilities equipped with the latest technological advancements.

In addition, the fabrication facility hosts 75 tonnes of overhead cranes which allow the team to take on very large projects.

“Enduraclad has modernised robotic equipment to manufacture its products.

Designed by myself, the machines are well-equipped to run autonomously as required, helping to reduce the labour

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

where previous products only lasted a year.

“

I believe disability is just a label.

Everyone has skills that are valuable, it is just a matter of matching their skills to the working environment. We have actively sought to improve Enduraclad International’s training programs with the aim of employing more people with disabilities.”

Left: Enduraclad founder and managing director Jason Kell

15

component to operate the business,” Jason said.

From the outset, Jason was clear that he wanted to have more than one piece of each critical equipment asset – to prevent the possibility of breakdowns slowing down production.

“We now host a multitude of each of our major manufacturing pieces, much of it surplus to daily needs,” he said.

“However, it’s been extremely handy when we have to ramp up operations quickly for a project.”

A premium product range

This same passion for innovation and creative problem-solving is the driving force behind Enduraclad’s premium product range. As an example, the team identified an issue in the design of many mining chutes, with hundreds of small liners that are bolted into place. This results in many days of shutdown time to remove and replace the liners when they become worn out.

“Enduraclad produces the world largest liners, allowing us to design and manufacture full tubs as liners inside existing chutes. This eliminated hundreds of smaller liners and allows shutdowns to occur in one day or less," Jason said.

One of the company’s most popular products is CTC-X® or cemented tungsten carbide. Uniquely manufactured by Enduraclad, it is swiftly gaining a reputation across the industry for its outstanding results in mining port applications. CTC-X® is the super extreme in wear resistant liners and is designed for applications that experience severe abrasion, where standard wear plate is ineffective.

“Where alumina ceramics were once used, the CTC-X is withstanding impact and abrasion to allow port chutes to last more than a year in service,” Jason said.

CTC-X® is available with cemented tungsten carbide and cobalt tiles, in a range of thickness up to 20mm, vacuum brazed to a mild steel backing plate.

Another premium product offered by the company is EnduraCoat™—a tungsten overlay developed to provide a cost-effective solution in prolonging the life of applications and equipment subject to extreme wear. Enduraclad's unique welding process incorporates layering tungsten chips to a base metal allowing for a greater life cycle, typically outlasting regular overlay plate by as much as 10 times. EnduraCoat™ can be applied in thickness up to 15mm.

Their TiC™️ titanium carbide wear liners comprise of a TiC™️ insert, moulded in a high-tensile strength natural rubber matrix, and mounted on steel backing plates. All rubber ceramic liners are hot vulcanised together using specialised equipment which provides a bond strength that exceeds the tensile strength of the natural rubber matrix.

As a result, the TiC™️ insert will remain in the rubber matrix, offering consistent wear and impact protection across the entire life of the liner.

Enduraclad also supplies a range of quenched and tempered steel plate.

With four large profile cutting tables, Enduraclad can cut shapes from 1mm up to 200mm thick. With the option of oxy and plasma bevelling, Enduraclad regularly repairs base lips and edges.

Winning top industry honours

After only a few years of operation, Enduraclad was already garnering industry accolades – winning the medium business category in the Western Australia Telstra Business Awards.

Enduraclad has gone on to receive more honours, including the nationallyrecognised SME Business of the Year in the Telstra Business Awards in 2017, and Optus Manufacturing Business of the Year for 2018. To complement these wins, the company was also selected for the Regional Business Awards in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019.

But for Jason, this recognition is a testament to his team. “They are all well-deserving recipients of these awards,” he said.

Enduraclad's journey from a small startup operating out of a garage to a global leader in wear plate manufacturing is nothing short of remarkable. Through a commitment to innovation, product quality, and an employee-centric ethos, the company has carved out a significant niche in the global resources industry. While its state-of-the-art facilities and pioneering solutions like the world's largest liners have set industry standards, it's the company's investment in its people and inclusive practices that truly set it apart.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ENDURACLAD AND THEIR PRODUCTS >>>

Manufactured to world-class standards under strict Australian safety guidelines, Enduraclad’s range of welded overlay liners is amongst the industry's best globally.

ECI60® Used widely amongst civil and earthmoving applications, EC160® is the right choice for general overall performance in just about any application. It's readily available in a variety of thicknesses and it's easy to process finished products yourself with minimal equipment.

ECI80® As the impact specialist, ECI80® is a quality grade CCO wear plate suitable for high wear areas. Expected to last up to three times that of standard D60 plate of equal thickness, it has excellent impact and abrasion resistance – taking the bump and grind in one effort.

EMEX® EMEX® overlay can be applied direct to shaped items as well as to standard base material such as mild steel plate of varying thicknesses, ensuring the finished parts are readily weldable. Alternative base plate grades can be incorporated with the EMEX® overlay to meet specific customer requirements.

CTC6000® CTC6000® is the super extreme in wear-resistant wear plate and is designed for applications that experience severe abrasion and moderate impact, where standard chromium carbide wear plate is proving ineffective. Customised to suit each application, CTC6000® is the ultimate choice when it comes to resisting wear.

ECI MAXI® ECI MAXI® is the super extreme in wear-resistant wear plate and is designed for applications that experience severe abrasion, where standard wear plate is ineffective.

Tungsten Carbide granules are spread through a tough matrix of Ni, Si, B, producing high hardness resulting in significant increases in service life over other standard overlay wear plate.

Superflow® Superflow® is Enduraclad’s answer for promoting material flow and minimising friction. This material, ingeniously produced by our proprietary machine, comes in ‘smooth’ and ‘polished’ finish surfaces. The polished surface creates a virtual non-stick surface preventing hang up of sticky products in many applications.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

PRODUCT PROFILE: ENDURACLAD WELD OVERLAY SOLUTIONS

IMAGES Above Left: An apron feeder with an EnduraCoat™ tungsten overlay.

Above Right: EnduraCoat™ Above Bottom: The Enduraclad team enjoys a barbeque.

Left: Enduraclad's weld overlay solutions.

17

ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR ASI MEMBERS BY AWARD WINNING SOLAR & ENERGY PROCUREMENT EXPERTS! 50+ satisfied steel, truss & timber customers

Total $1M saved over 24 months

$20k savings on average

Enquire Today

Services Complimentary energy assessments Network demand and tariff review Metering, and bill error management Solar funding with little-to-no budget

choiceenergy.com.au

1300 304 448

Active management is a cornerstone of AustralianSuper’s investment strategy. It’s a hands-on investing approach that aims to help members achieve their best financial position in retirement.

When it comes to investing, there are two main approaches: active and passive management.

Active management is when an investor proactively decides which investments are bought or sold. Active managers will use extensive research and experience to inform their investment decisions, helping to add value and drive outperformance.

Passive management, or index investing, simply follows the performance of market indexes. For example, a passive manager may invest in the 200 companies that make up the ASX 200 Index in order to track its investment performance.

Our approach to active management AustralianSuper use active management at two different levels of the investment portfolio.

The first is through asset allocation decisions, looking at how much we invest in each asset class for better performance.

The second is through individual investment selections. This is the actual buying and selling of individual investments. If we believe a company will be a good investment over the long run, then we can invest more in that company today. We specifically choose investments that we expect will outperform indexes, leveraging opportunities not available to passive or smaller active managers.

About half of members’ assets1 are internally managed. But we also invest with external managers with specialised expertise or potential to add value to the portfolio. AustralianSuper was

also the first super fund to establish investment offices in Asia, Europe and North America giving us greater insights and access to larger investment opportunities.

Performance track record

Active management has been a key part of AustralianSuper’s long-term performance, with its flagship balanced option ranked in the top two performing super funds for investment returns over 10 and 20 years to 31 March 20232.

If an AustralianSuper member had $100,000 invested in the Balanced fund option 20 years ago, that balance would have grown to about $491,000 by 31 March 20233. That is about $50,000 more than what would have been delivered by the median super fund4.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

BENEFITS OF ACTIVE SUPER MANAGEMENT

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ACTIVE MANAGEMENT >>>

Investing for members

Active management can help deliver long-term performance and net benefit to members. Net benefit is the investment return delivered to you by your super fund minus the administration and investment fees and costs, transaction costs and taxes.

Unlike passive funds, an active manager can take advantage of more opportunities. This means quickly responding to market changes, effectively repositioning the investment portfolio. When investment markets fall, they can help cushion the impact. And when investments rebound, they can participate in the upside.

Assets may also be mispriced in volatile markets and through active management can offer attractive buying opportunities for long-term investors.

Investing in unlisted assets

Active management provides more ability to invest in unlisted assets, including private equity, property and infrastructure.

Unlisted assets have shown to be a great long-term investment with AustralianSuper investing in Sydney Airport, the Transurban Queensland toll road network and Indara, Australia’s largest independent wireless tower and digital infrastructure owner.

1. As at 31 March 2023.

2. AustralianSuper Balanced investment option as compared to the SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey – SR50 Balanced (60-76) to 31 March 2023.

Returns from equivalent investment options of the ARF and STA super funds are used for periods before 1 July 2006. Investment returns aren’t guaranteed. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns.

3. AustralianSuper investment returns are based on crediting rates, which are returns less investment fees and costs, the percentage-based administration fee deducted from returns from 1 April 2020 to 2 September 2022 and taxes. Returns don’t include all administration, insurance and other fees and costs that are deducted from account balances. Returns from equivalent investment options of the ARF and STA super funds are used for periods before 1 July 2006.

4. AustralianSuper Balanced investment option

compared to the ‘median’ option in the SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey – SR50 Balanced (60-76) to 31 March 2023.

This information may be general financial advice which doesn’t take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about AustralianSuper, you should think about your financial requirements and refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement available at australiansuper. com/pds or by calling 1300 300 273. A Target Market Determination (TMD) is a document that outlines the target market a product has been designed for. Find the TMDs at australiansuper.com/tmd.

Sponsored by AustralianSuper Pty Ltd, ABN 94 006 457 987, AFSL 233788, Trustee of AustralianSuper ABN 65 714 394 898

19

SOLID TO THE CORE: CELEBRATING GALSERV’S 60-YEAR LEGACY Galserv, a trusted name in galvanizing services to the greater Sydney region, recently marked its 60th anniversary milestone.

Since its establishment six decades ago, Galserv has been a stalwart in the galvanizing industry, consistently evolving to stay ahead of the curve. Part of NEPEAN Building & Infrastructure, Galserv has been involved in some of Australia's largest commercial and industrial projects, helping to extend the durability of bridges, shelters, artworks, road barriers, buildings and industrial-scale precincts—just to name a few.

Galserv began life as Galvanizing Services under the Graham Group in 1963. It was one of the first galvanizers in Australia, and a founding member of the Galvanizers Association of Australia.

In 2007, Graham Group and Galvanizing Services became part of NEPEAN, forming what is now known as NEPEAN Building & Infrastructure, along with leading brands Weldlok and Galintel.

Through the decades of continuous improvement, Galserv has always stayed focused on one thing: providing the best possible service to help its client bring the best out in every project.

The Galserv facility in Yagoona is unique, operating 24 hours a day, six days a week, since its inception.

Partnered with their process focus, this enables Galserv to handle large and high-volume materials, keeping pace with Sydney's growing needs.

With a demonstrated history of success managing large and complex projects, Galserv's capabilities allow them to easily handle materials up to 17.5m in length and up to 6.5 tonnes.

What sets Galserv apart is it's people, many of which have celebrated major service milestones as the business has a strong history of developing and promoting talent. Their team includes an in-house qualified chemical engineer experienced across complex technical projects and provides clients with expert

advice and recommendations related to material selection, product design and fabrication for galvanizing to achieve specified quality outcomes.

and complex projects – for example, delivering 164 tonnes of hot-dip galvanized steelwork for the world’s steepest passenger railway."

Members of the Galserv technical team have been trained and qualified to carry out inspections on fabricated steel articles before, during and after the hot-dip galvanizing process. Their team assesses the suitability of articles before the hot-dip galvanizing process including the appropriate use of drainage holes, surface condition, damage and metallurgy and provide recommendations or remedy where necessary.

"Galserv has worked tirelessly to become the trusted leader for even the most demanding steel requirements, including sensitive projects like data centres and military sites."

Committed to making its customers successful, Galserv also provides express services when customers need materials fast.

Future proofing Sydney

Throughout its 60-year history, Galserv has worked across construction and infrastructure projects that helped build an ever expanding Sydney.

According to Joshua Nolan, general manager of Galserv, "There’s been a lot of change in the galvanizing industry since 1963. Every project benefits from our continual improvement across technical knowledge, processing techniques and onsite logistics."

"These innovations have enabled us to optimise our Yagoona site for large

"We're proud of our long history of supporting major infrastructure and construction projects in New South Wales and beyond. We’ve worked on Sydney Harbour Bridge modules, Sydney Boathouse, Taronga Zoo’s elephant enclosure, Sydney Metro stations, Scenic Railway, the Illawarra Fly Walk and almost everything in between."

"We’re a Sydney business through and through. We’ve been providing pro bono coating services for Sydney’s Heritage Fleet for over 25 years, and previously supported the Westmead Children’s Hospital with project work for their Burns Unit courtyard."

"Our team at Galserv has worked in partnership for many years with schools and universities across training, research and development to help foster the next generation of talented people. We’re also strong supporters of the galvanizing industry, being a proud founding member of the GAA (Galvanizers Association of Australia) since its inception in 1963."

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

Case study: Katoomba scenic world railway upgrade

The Scenic Railway in Katoomba, New South Wales is the steepest passenger railway in the world. With a 52 degree gradient, the train descends 310m through a cliff-side tunnel, emerging into ancient rainforest at the Jamison Valley floor. Operating since 1945, the Scenic Railway has thrilled 25 million passengers during 700,000 journeys.

The railway was originally constructed in 1880, for a coal and oil shale mining operation, in order to haul the coal and shale from the valley floor to the escarpment above. From 1928 to 1945, it carried coal during the week and passengers on the weekend. The mine was closed in 1945, at which time the railway passed into the Hammon Family hands and has been a privately owned tourist attraction ever since.

In 2012, Grindley was engaged to undertake a construction management role and to deliver a $20 million upgrade to the railway and associated services. Works included laying of new tracks to accommodate larger Swiss designed railway carriages, upgraded buildings, a new winch and control systems, a complete rebuild of the top and bottom platforms and new restaurant and commercial facilities.

To accommodate the new trains, the tunnel was also enlarged, which involved hand excavation and installation of 140 tonne of mesh reinforced dry shotcrete, with 1.8m, 2.1m and 3.0m long rock bolts.

Combell Steelfab was the prime steel contractor, fabricating 205 tonnes of structural steelwork. The top station, consisting of three levels, service, viewing and queuing platforms and roof steelwork. Main feature columns were painted ‘traffic red’.

Due to the steep site, a series of nine modular tower sections were fabricated for the bottom station including loading and unloading platform steelwork.

Because every item was helicoptered into position, the accuracy of their work had to be exemplary. For the Bottom Station Towers, trial assemblies were constructed in Combell’s workshop, and all the project’s structural steel was subject to stringent ongoing quality control.

Galserv treated all the heavy structural material—some 164 tonnes—for the refurbishment, including the support structures for the new upper and lower platforms and all stairways and maintenance access walkways. In total, Galserv galvanized a staggering

The Scenic Railway in Katoomba is the steepest passenger railway in the world. Galserv played a major role in its upgrade, galvanising over 164 tonnes of structural steelwork.

17,855 individual steel components.

Some of which were installed at an incredible incline of 52 degrees on the track leading into the Jamison Valley.

Galserv worked closely with Combell Steelfab to create an ad hoc delivery plan spanning two months, focused on quick turnarounds for full semi loads of material that were fabricated, galvanized and delivered to site on time.

The figures paint a clear picture of the physical demands of the project:1,100m3 of excavation dug by hand; 240 tonne of existing concrete jackhammered and shovelled out; 143 tonne of existing structural steel cut up and manhandled out; 1,200 tonne of rubbish manhandled out; over 300 micropiles installed to an average depth of 6m and manhandled into position; over 130 tonne of scaffold erected, modified, dismantled and then manhandled up and down the mountain numerous times.

IMAGES Far Left: The Galserv facility in Yagoona, NSW runs 24 hours, six days a week Far Right: Large structural steel being processed by the team at Galserv

21

GALVANIZERS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE INDUSTRY 26 July 2023 marked the 60th anniversary of the registration of the Galvanizers Association of Australia (GAA). Since 1963, GAA has been assisting engineers, architects, specifiers, and end users with solutions for the corrosion protection of structural steel.

PROJECT CASE STUDY: PYES CREEK SWING BRIDGE

The Pyes Creek swing bridge was delivered for Hornsby Shire Council as part of the $250 million New South Wales Public Spaces Legacy Program. Located in a sensitive ecological corridor in northern Sydney, the project brief was to design, manufacture and install a highly functional new pedestrian bridge across Pyes Creek, while causing minimal impact to the surrounding habitat and residents. The solution was a low-profile 50m swing bridge, connecting suburban Cherrybrook with Fallon Drive Reserve in neighbouring Dural.

The single span design was carefully chosen to eliminate the need for cranes and other heavy equipment, while also significantly reducing the bridge’s structural footprint. Featuring 30mm support cables, 32 galvanized steel cross beams and FRP mini-mesh decking, the entire structure was hand-

assembled high above the creek before opening to the public in mid-2023.

According to GAA's chief executive officer, Peter Golding, "Over the last 60 years our members have used more than a million tonnes of zinc to protect Australian fabricated steel and have been involved in many iconic Australian projects, including construction of the tiled roof of the Sydney Opera House, and reinforcing the walls of new Parliament House in Canberra."

Working with client Fleetwood Urban, Galserv's team provided hot dip galvanizing services for 21 tonnes of materials. By utilising innovative design and materials and the longevity of protection provided

by Galserv, disruption to the habitat and residents was minimised, providing a long-lasting solution.

"But the everyday items are just as important, including the lightweight hot dip galvanized railway masts used in nearly all new electrified lines since 1983, the lighting poles that illuminate our major highways and sporting ovals with minimal maintenance, and the crash barriers that save lives every day."

This elegant structure enhances accessibility between Cherrybrook and Dural, fostering community connections and a deeper appreciation for our natural backyard. Sustainability was at the forefront, driving every decision, such as using 10m deep rock anchors at each bridge end and eliminating the need for large concrete footings.

"Tough, durable and bonded metallurgically to the steel base, no other coating provides 100% protection like batch hot dip galvanized steel. And no other coating provides 100% recyclability without loss of properties."

"Today, the GAA is committed to supporting Australian industry with independently verified information on durability, sustainability, and design of hot dip galvanized coatings. In 2024 we'll be introducing some all new tools to support design for corrosion," Peter said.

The GAA aims to provide the highest standards in design and quality of galvanized products and to assist consumers achieve the economics inherent in the correct design and application of galvanized products.

GAA provides free technical publications and practical assistance on all aspects of design, application, process, bolting, welding, and painting of galvanized steel.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GALSERV AND THEIR CAPABILITIES >>>

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GAA >>>

Crisp Bros. & Haywards is Tasmania’s largest steel fabrication and construction company with workshops in Launceston, Western Junction, Wynyard and Hobart, and over 280 staff.

The company has successfully undertaken major projects throughout Australia and overseas, including recently completing work on the West Gate Tunnel Project.

From humble beginnings in the 1950s, Crisp Bros. & Haywards is now Tasmania’s largest steel fabrication and construction company. Boasting four workshops across the state—in Launceston, Western Junction, Wynyard and Hobart— Crisp Bros. & Haywards employs almost 300 Tasmanians.

workshops in their Wynyard facility, Crisp Bros. & Haywards is wellequipped for working with nonferrous metals such as stainless steel and aluminium. Their modern shipyard at the Margate facility is capable of providing turnkey solutions, from concept design through to delivery of marine vessels.

The company specialises in the modelling, detailing, fabrication, surface treatment and erection of structural steel and metal work, as well as large scale steel works for sectors like infrastructure, energy, materials handling and mining.

In Launceston, Crisp Bros. & Haywards' facilities include processing equipment with a workshop capacity that covers everything from architectural features and structural steel through to large scale industrial projects. Crisp Bros. & Haywards is equipped to take on any project that is made of metal.

The company is comprised of three divisions that all function in separate locations, but with their combined resources, can take on large scale, complex projects and achieve highquality results. With specialised

According to managing director, Steve Edmunds, "Crisp Bros. & Haywards is a premier steel fabrication and engineering company. A highly successful business, we are owned and operated by a team of passionate

shareholders and managers. In other words, the people who own the business also manage it on a day-today basis.”

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

TASMANIA'S STEEL LEADERS: CRISP BROS. & HAYWARDS

"Our team of highly skilled and professional staff is committed to delivering quality engineering, fabrication and construction. Crisp Bros. & Haywards is dedicated to continuous improvement and growth and doing our utmost to meet our clients' every requirement.

We are committed to excellence and exceeding industry standards through innovation and management, as well as employee achievement.”

"Crisp Bros. & Haywards has successfully completed major projects throughout Australia and overseas. Our success is a direct result of our staff's professional approach and determination to provide personal customer service, no matter the size of the project at hand," Edmunds said.

Just some of their recent projects include the Westgate Tunnel Project, Rozelle Interchange, Burnie Ship Loader, UTAS Launceston Redevelopment, Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant and VIVA Energy Tanks. Crisp Bros. & Haywards has also played a pivotal role in some of Australia's major sporting stadiums, from the MCG and Bellerive Oval, through to AAMI Park and Rod Laver Arena.

Cradle Mountain visitor centre

Haywards has also grown to become a major Australian wind tower constructor and supplier. They have manufactured almost 300 wind towers, including at Woolnorth and Studland Bay in Tasmania, Lake Bonney, Canunda and Walkway in South Australia, and Waubra and Mortlake in Victoria.

23

PROJECT CASE STUDY: WEST GATE TUNNEL Crisp Bros. & Haywards recently completed their works on the multibillion dollar West Gate Tunnel Project in Melbourne. The Victorian Government has partnered with Transurban to deliver the West Gate Tunnel Project. The project will give Melbourne a second freeway link between the west and the city, providing a much needed alternative to the West Gate Bridge and a vital second river crossing.

The project encompasses widening the West Gate Freeway from eight lanes to 12 between the M80 Ring Road and Williamstown Road; a 2.8km eastbound tunnel and 4km westbound tunnel under Yarraville; and a new bridge over the Maribyrnong River providing an alternative to the West Gate Bridge.

Bridge girders in place at the West Gate Tunnel Project

In expectation of an increase in large scale infrastructure projects, Haywards expanded their workshop capacity, constructing a new purpose-built facility at Western Junction, just north of Launceston, in 2020. The facility increased overhead lifting capacity from 80 tonnes to 200 tonnes to accommodate the ever-increasing size of sections.

The CPB Contractors and John Holland Joint Venture (CPBJH JV) awarded the contract to Crisp Bros. & Haywards in May 2021.

The scope of Crisp Bros. & Haywards works consisted of the fabrication of 69 individual steel bridge girders sections, making up three bridge assemblies that will serve as distribution lanes from the tunnel into the western end of the city. Of the 69 sections transported, the largest section moved weighed 110 tonnes, and was 35m long and 5.5m wide.

In total, Crisp Bros. & Haywards handled 5,000 tonnes of steel in the production—equivalent to approximately 250 trailers of raw material coming into Tasmania.

Crisp Bros. & Haywards commenced construction in November 2021 and completed the project in September 2023. In total, 145,000 man hours

Bridge girders in place at the West Gate Tunnel Project

were completed. Over the duration of the project there was an average of 40 tradesmen and five apprentices working per week. All of Haywards’ current 15 apprentices working in their Western Junction facility spent some time working on the project, gaining valuable experience along the way. With the inclusion of Haywards’ team of sub-contractors there was a total of 80 people employed per week to complete the project scope.

According to project manager Shaun Brown, "An incredible amount of work and labour went into this project, and it is great to see all of that hard work acknowledged on the project's completion here today."

"We're very fortunate to have been awarded the contract, especially after Haywards expanded their workshop capacity by constructing a new purpose-built facility in 2020."

"What we're most happy about is that we're able to employ a lot of Tasmanians and do things on a national scale. Transporting these large beams from Tasmania to mainland Australia is no easy feat.

We are committed to keeping jobs local," Brown said.

Crisp Bros. & Haywards would like to thank everyone involved in the project, including their loyal team of skilled tradesmen, apprentices and subcontractors; InfraBuild Steel Centre Launceston supplying 2,000 tonnes of Australian made steel from BlueScope Australia; GJ Engineering and P&D L Engineering for machining and drilling works; Fusion NDT for weld testing; McElligotts Tasmania for surface treatment; SteelForce Industry Solutions for steel modelling and detailing; Survey Resources for surveying; and transport partners Tasmanian Heavy Haulage and SeaRoad.

Transportation of the bridge girder sections for the West Gate Tunnel Project

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CRISP BROS. & HAYWARDS >>>

Transportation of the Burnie Ship Loader project

Crisp Bros. & Haywards apprentice takes home WorldSkills silver medal

given me confidence in my trade and has pushed me to want to do more courses to better my career.

Hopefully one day, I’ll look at being a teacher or at least a mentor at WorldSkills.”

The National Championships is Australia’s biggest vocational education and excellence competition, with regional competitors from all around the country competing against their industry peers.

“I took pride in representing Tasmania. Team Tasmania was something great to be a part of. We stayed behind at the end after we had been finished a couple hours and helped the venue clean up. No other teams did that. It was a great team to be a part of and a great bunch of people.”

Cris Bros. & Haywards apprentice Beau Malkin recently earned a silver medal for welding at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships.

Hearing his name called for a silver medal was a big surprise to Beau.

"They called me out for silver and I couldn’t believe it. Afterwards they told me that I was only a couple points off coming first as well.”

Competing at WorldSkills has given Beau extra motivation to challenge himself in his career. “WorldSkills has pushed me to be a better welder, because now I know what I can do. It’s

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

“

What we're most happy about is that we're able to employ a lot of Tasmanians and do things on a national scale. Transporting these large beams from Tasmania to mainland Australia is no easy feat. We are committed to keeping jobs local."

Tasmanian Minister for Skills, Training and Workforce Growth, Felix Ellis, said National Skills Week celebrates the outstanding career opportunities and value of vocational education and training.

“The 2023 WorldSkills championships provides the

Beau Malkin

chance for young Tasmanians to test their skills against peers on the national stage," Minister Ellis said.

“It provides the perfect showcase of the quality of our vocational education and training system, and Tassie has punched above once again.”

25

Sponsored by Combilift, the welcome reception was held at Old Melbourne Gaol

Chris Littlewood, Combilift's Australian country manager, opens the welcome reception

2023 AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION Over 240 delegates enjoyed the ASI's 2023 Australian Steel Convention in Melbourne from 10 to 12 September. With the theme of Choose Steel, sessions focused on both steel as the preferred building material and why to choose steel as a career. Delegates took away valuable insights on everything from global trends, right through to local innovations, as well as inspirational stories.

The 2023 Australian Steel Convention kicked off with a welcome reception at Old Melbourne Goal. Sponsored

by Combilift, the function saw drinks and canapes served in the gaol where Australian bushranger Ned Kelly lived his final days.

The night’s festivities provided those in attendance with the opportunity to chat informally, and compare notes ahead of the formal Convention program. Those who attended were treated to delicious food and drinks, as well as live music.

Attendees were welcomed by Mark Cain, ASI's chief executive, and heard from Chris Littlewood, Combilift's Australian country manager.

Ministerial address: Ed Husic

Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic, opened day one of the convention, saying that renewable energy is offering a host of new opportunities for Australian-made steel.

According to Husic, Australian-made steel has a key role to play in the shift to advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and low emissions, including production of wind turbines.

“We want to be a country that makes things. Australian-made steel will play a vital role in that vision. The net result is higher paid jobs and greater prosperity for Australians everywhere.”

Husic said Australian-made steel was ‘crucial’ to the economy, employing

140,000 people and generating $30 billion in annual revenue.

Husic said: “I am the son of a metal worker and I know how important steel is to the nation."

Macro-economics and their impact the on global steel industry The first session of day one focused on economic challenges facing the steel industry.

Dr Alan Dupont, CEO of Cognoscenti, explained to delegates that the world is facing a polycrisis. "Multiple systemic disturbances—from the Ukraine conflict to rising US-China tensions, accelerating deglobalisation and a high stakes tech war—are creating the most volatile, unpredictable and challenging investment environment since World War II." With this more complex, disparate, cross-cutting set of challenges, comes a volatile business environment that makes it difficult to plan ahead more than a few months.

The implication for Australian businesses, particularly those in the steel supply chain, is an ever increasing need for sovereign capability. Steel has to be a focus. Geopolitical alliances are going to dictate economic policies much more than in the past. As world economies continue to divide into two competing blocks, the more there will be a fracturing of investment patterns.

Dr Alan Dupont AO

Tony Morriss

Choose Steel panel (L to R): David Varcoe, Andrew Walsh and Robin Awan

The Convention Dinner was held at the Plaza Ballroom

Tony Morriss, senior director of thematic macros research at AustralianSuper described the economic challenges ahead. He focused on five key themes including geopolitics and 'de-risking'; energy transition, industrial policy and national security; peak globalisation; generative Artificial Intelligence; negative interest policy and low bond yields; and Australia's ageing population.

Panel discussions

Day one also featured two lively panel discussions. David Varcoe (ASI state manager) hosted Andrew Walsh (CEO, Steeline Group) and Robin Awan (creative director, Bundy Agency) in a discussion on the creation of the ASI's Choose Steel campaign.

The roll former-funded Choose Steel campaign employs a website (choosesteel.com.au) to promote steel as the preferred building material for home renovations. The website features a collection of compelling case studies, practical dos and don'ts for home renovation, and a comprehensive list of steel suppliers specialising in home renovations. Over 2,000 users visited the website in the first two weeks.

The ad component of the campaign employs digital billboards at key Melbourne transport locations including motorways and social media posts on Instagram and Facebook pointing home renovators to the Choose Steel website and its list of steel suppliers.

The second panel focused on customer perspectives in construction. It saw Al Baxter from Populous, Maria Mavrikos from Structural Challenge, Jerome Harris from John Holland, and Bonnie Ryan from GS1 share their perspectives.

Project case studies

Project case studies were back by

popular demand, showcasing the innovative solutions across a myriad of applications and steel product groups.

Peter Blythe, managing director of Dynamic Steel Frame, delved into innovative cold formed steel structures.

He detailed the $30 million Latrobe Valley GovHub, which features a façade framework design encompassing 19 light gauge steel modules. Each module is 8m wide and 14.5m high and comprises over 3 tonnes of BlueScope's TRUECORE® steel, forming what could be the world's largest light gauge steel façade.

Convention Dinner

FEATURE: AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

Comedian Marty Fields entertains guests at the Convention Dinner

Customer perspectives in construction panel

Andrew Moir, managing director of ArcStructural, and Matthew Davey, structural manager of Multiplex, then took delegates through the design and construction of the 308 Exhibition Street Skybridge Project.

Designed by Cox Architects and Fender Katsalidis, 308 Exhibition Street is set to be one of Melbourne’s most iconic projects, with the two luxury towers connected by an innovative skybridge on level 46. The level 46 skybridge forms the rigid link between both towers, synchronising the movement generated from both wind and seismic forces. Tower one will be comprised predominantly of residential apartments, and tower two will be a five star hotel.

The main works for the project commenced with one of the largest concrete pours in Melbourne’s history—a day long concrete raft pour covering an area of 1,000m2 . This monumental 3m deep raft foundation is located on top of an existing railway tunnel and supports the new landmark mixed-use precinct.

Peter Blythe

Andrew Moir and Matthew Davey

The last case study saw Joseph Pirello from Aurecon provide an overview of Allianz Stadium. The New South Wales Government invested over $830 million in

27 Joseph Pirello

the development of the new 42,500 seat stadium. The new stadium consists of over 5,000 tonnes of Australian fabricated steel through the bowl (seating structure), roof, façade and miscellaneous items.

The design of the new Allianz Stadium builds on the legacy of the original. Its sweeping roof floats over the seating bowl and will cover all patrons with 100% drip line roof coverage. To achieve this result, the 2,000 tonne roof structure is shaped as a synclastic diagrid shell.

This is supported by four corner ‘super columns’ (derricks). Spanning between the derricks are inner arched trusses that measure approximately 140m and 90m in length, connected by large 260mm diameter pins. The structural design also includes an outer tension ring and underlying columns that not only support the roof, but connect it to the ‘bowl’ steelwork.

We choose steel

Tania Archibald, BlueScope's chief executive of Australian steel products spoke about the critical role of steel, focused on how steel is key to a low emissions future.

Archibald detailed BlueScope's infrastructure investments, including a $415 million expansion of metal coating capacity at its Erskine Park, New South Wales site. The additional metal coating line will have capacity to produce up to 240ktpa of BlueScope’s value-added, metal coated products. The project is expected to be fully commissioned and operational by the end of 2025.

The second major investment is the $1 billion rebuild of No 6 blast furnace at the Port Kembla Steelworks, which will provide the company with a bridge until new technology is developed that will allow commercially viable low emission steelmaking. Believed to be Australia’s largest ever steel infrastructure project, the reline will also create up to 300 new jobs in the Illawarra during construction.

Archibald also announced that BlueScope's Western Port site in Hastings had been awarded ResponsibleSteelTM site certification—the global steel industry's first sustainability standard and certification program.

BlueScope’s iron and steelmaking operations in Port Kembla, New South Wales was awarded the certification in February 2022.

Adventure thinking: lessons from the edge

Justin 'Jonesy' Jones regaled delegates with stories from his adventures, including kayaking from Australia to New Zealand completely unsupported

Justin 'Jonesy' Jones

and unassisted. Initially, phenomenal progress was made: in five days, Jonesy and his mate Cas had paddled over 500km. Day two alone, saw the boys paddle 178km in 24 hours.

In the middle of the Tasman Sea, they were hit by a storm that raised 10m high seas and 100km per hour winds. This storm kept the boys captive for four days. It pushed them into the centre of a current whirlpool that forced them into a two-week loop in the centre of the Tasman Sea.

Tania Archibald

After breaking free, Jonesy and Cas had issues with sharks, barnacles, severe food and sleep deprivation, wasting muscles and adverse weather conditions. Finally, after 62 days out at sea, the boys pulled onto dry land at Ngamotu Beach, New Plymouth on the North Island of New Zealand.

Next up was Jonesy's adventure that saw him and Cas ski from the Coast of Antarctica (Hercules Inlet) to the South Pole and back.After beginning the journey, unseasonal snow fall in the first two weeks and constant whiteouts saw incredibly slow progress. By the end of the first month in Antarctica, they had only completed 300km of the 2275km.

With only two months remaining the journey looked to be impossible. On Day 62 of the journey they reached the South Pole, with 27 days left to complete the return journey.

Battling infection, starving and sleep deprived, Jonesy and Cas skiied close to 15 hours and 50km each day on the return. They crossed the finish line on Australia Day.

Geoff Feurtado

Wayne Harris

Wayne Harris of Liberty Primary Steel, and Geoff Feurtado, CFO of InfraBuild, spoke about capitalising on a low emissions future.

Feurtado told the convention that renewable energy has presented the steel industry with an enormous opportunity. Feurtado said steelmakers and the industry needed to be ready to take advantage of the push towards a carbon neutral future.

"Change has been a constant in the Australian steel industry and we have proven we have not only the ability to respond but how to leverage change as an opportunity to grow and diversify,” Feurtado said. “The opportunity as Australia navigates the pathway to a prosperous low emissions economy, over the coming decade, and beyond, will be one of our most significant. Industry now has to be ready for the acceleration as government seeks to catch up.”

Feurtado cited the massive amounts of steel required for every wind farm and every solar facility and the growing appetite among industry for third party accreditation to demonstrate we are a responsible and transparent sector Ministerial address: Brendan O'Connor Keeping steel jobs onshore is vital for the economy, Federal Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor told the Australian Steel Convention.

O’Connor said the Federal Government had allocated $15 billion in its National Reconstruction Fund to building infrastructure locally, with locally made

FEATURE: AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

A lower emissions future

steel an important part of that plan.

“Steel is the backbone of the construction industry,” O’Connor told the convention. “Our government is committed to ensuring the Australian steel industry remains robust and active.

Part of that plan is a strong stance on anti-dumping."

“The federal government had invested $1 billion to create fee-free VET training in key areas including manufacturing and construction trades. Ten thousand new energy apprentices will be able to access $10,000 each in support under the program," O’Connor said.

Matina Jewell

Caught in the crossfire

During her 15-year military career, Matina Jewell served on five missions and earned nine war medals. She was appointed officer in command of the HMAS Kanimbla, then Australia’s largest Navy ship, at only 23 years old. She was the first woman in the Australian Army to complete the physically demanding Navy Ship's Diver course, and served as a peacekeeper with the United Nations in Syria and Lebanon.

Jewell's keynote focused on how authentic, values-based leadership often takes great courage. She drew on her extraordinary experience of conquering one seemingly insurmountable leadership challenge after another, to help reframe our perspective on life. Jewell reminded delegates that it takes leaders who are courageous, and who have vision, to lead their organisation in a direction where they may not be 100% certain how things will look on the other side.

29

CHOOSE STEEL AS A CAREER PANEL Latest Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) figures reveal continued jobs shortages in the steel industry, with fitter and metal fabricator jobs particularly affected.

JSA’s 2023 Skills Priority List shows that 36% of occupations are in national shortage (332 out of 916)—5% higher than in 2022.

Among these, 47% were professionals, mostly related to health, engineering, information communication technology (ICT) and science roles. Another 33% were technician and trades workers occupations. All five of the largest employing non-construction trades occupations were also in shortage, including fitter and metal fabricator.

Young achievers panel

This skills shortage isn't just a number— it represents projects delayed, potential innovations stalled, and industry growth curtailed. As such, the Australian Steel Convention dedicated a session to Choose Steel as a Career. This session featured a young achievers panel of: Shannon Kieran, structural engineer at Aurecon; Olivia Fanke, environment advisor at BlueScope; Atilla Mustafa, apprentice boilermaker at Structural Challenge; and Jonathan Rogers, sales representative at Vulcan.

As a structural engineer in Aurecon's Darwin office, Shannon Kieran has provided structural design and construction site support services for projects in sectors as diverse as civil, energy, maritime, telecommunications, resources, infrastructure and defence.

She has worked on steel, timber and engineered wood products, as well as reinforced and post-tensioned concrete structures in cyclonic and high wind environments. Shannon is also a lecturer at her local university, teaching civil and structural engineering as well as geotechnical engineering.

Shannon was the winner of the ASI's 2022 National Young Designer, Detailer or Tradesperson Award.

Olivia Fanke is an environmental advisor at BlueScope's Western Port site. She has been with BlueScope for five years, starting in a position in their chemistry lab, before moving into an environment manager role at the Port Kembla site.

"I did work experience at BlueScope's chemistry lab in year 10, which led me to study chemistry at school. I loved science and wanted to get into something science-based, but

it wasn't until I got to do hands-on things in the lab that I decided to study environmental science. Halfway through my career, a job at the chem lab popped up and I applied."

Jonathan Rogers is an internal sales representative at Vulcan, who works predominantly in stainless steel. He had no particular background in steel when he first started at Vulcan, having worked in climbing gyms and as a baker.

"I heard about the vacancy at Vulcan and applied not knowing what the steel industry was all about. The visibility of the industry and the businesses related to steel is very low outside the industry itself. It has been fantastic working in steel—I have lots of opportunities, and work with a great team, and on a range of great projects and challenges," Jonathan said.

Atilla Mustafa is a third year boilermaker apprentice at Structural Challenge. At 22 years of age, Mustafa commenced his apprenticeship later than most.

However, he's wasted no time in proving his commendable work ethic and dedication. From his first day, Atilla has displayed a passion and willingness to learn as much as he can about steel.

Initially, Atilla commenced his career with a plumbing apprenticeship. He soon realised that working with metal was where his passion lay, and sought out a boilermaking apprenticeship, securing a position with Structural Challenge soon after.

As Shannon commented, "We've all ended up in the steel industry almost by accident. I see this a lot of time with students coming through university.

The problem is, students then struggle to understand what their day-to-day jobs will look like. University studies don't prepare students well for what to expect when they get out into the workplace. Students get lost in their studies because they don't see how what they're learning is applicable to their career."

Jonathan: "People who are my age tend to be looking at going to university, or they're doing PhDs at the moment. For them, the idea of the steel industry is vague—they have no idea how broad the industry is, or that it even exists.

Promoting the steel industry at schools and universities is essential. And promoting the fact there is a range of jobs is essential—the steel industry needs sales people, accountants,

Olivia: "I don't think you need to be coddled and praised by your boss, but you need a supportive network in your day-to-day role."

L to R: Jonathan Rogers (Vulcan), Mark Cain (ASI), Atilla Mustafa (Structural Challenge), Olivia Fanke (BlueScope), and Shannon Kieran (Aurecon).

purchasing managers, boilermakers.

There are so many jobs available."

Atilla commented, "For our generation, everyone needs to feel that they are part of something—connected to something at a wider level, be it social or professional."

When asked about the importance of longevity and stability in their careers, Jonathan said: "Vulcan provides a lot of opportunities to move forward, change roles, or move to a different site. Any company that can provide opportunities will be more likely to keep employees on-board, and keep them engaged."

L to R: Shannon Kieran (Aurecon), Jonathan Rogers (Vulcan), Olivia Fanke (BlueScope), Atilla Mustafa (Structural Challenge), and Convention MC Adam Spencer.

Olivia agreed: "Having flexibility of movement between roles, but within the same company is essential."

Shannon: "It's not necessarily about providing graduates with structured career progression. It can be as simple as making sure your employees have the opportunity to expand their skills and get as broad a range of experience as possible. In this way, you feel as though you're growing and accomplishing something in your everyday role—you're feeling engaged and challenged every day."

When asked about the importance of, and preferred management style,

When asked about gender diversity within the industry, Olivia said, "I haven't felt like I've been denied any opportunities being a woman.

But there is a divide. BlueScope is working to bring more women into the industry."

Shannon agreed: "I've never felt anything particularly special about being a woman. You never feel out of place in the offices, but it can sometimes happen out on-site.

Usually, the barrier is that I'm young, rather than a woman."

The younger generation is seeking meaningful and fulfilling work that aligns with their values and allows for a healthy work-life balance, while also valuing opportunities for career advancement and skill development in a dynamic and inclusive workplace.

They want flexibility and the chance to make a positive impact on society.

FEATURE: AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

Shannon said, "If your people are happy and want to be here, they will give their best. If they feel like they belong and are part of the team, and you have a culture where it is encouraged to speak up, share your opinions and ask questions, then younger staff will have that engagement and buy-in."

THE ASI CAREER CENTRE The Australian Steel Institute (ASI) understands how important it is to attract and retain good people, particularly in a labour market that is the tightest that many of us can recall. The number of occupations suffering from the skills shortage has almost doubled since 2021, with some roles having thousands of unfilled vacancies.

To help combat this skills shortage, ASI recently launched the ASI Career Centre—a one-stop shop for advertising, finding and preparing candidates for a position in the steel supply chain.

ASI has also created a range of resources designed to help businesses and individuals match the right people to the right job in the steel industry.

ASI resources can help individuals make informed career decisions and increase their marketability, while enabling companies to develop their workforce, optimise recruitment strategies, and boost productivity.

ASI resources include a steel industry induction course, information on topics like business visas and careers in fabrication, and a university support pack. All these resources were on-hand at the Convention, via the ASI Careers Hub exhibitor booth.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ASI CAREER CENTRE AND ACCESS FOR STEEL INDUSTRY CAREERS >>> Chess RESOURCES Engineering's Perth facilities.

31

2023 SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS The Australian Steel Institute would like to take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors and exhibitors, without which the 2023 Australian Steel Convention would not have been possible.

ACRS steelcertification.com

BLUESCOPE bluescope.com

ACRS is the independent, third party certification authority for construction steels supplied to Australian, New Zealand, and other applicable Standards, certifying the majority of reinforcing, prestressing and structural steels. ACRS certificates provide a common, simple, and credible means of confirming fitness for purpose of materials and processes, replacing variable, complex site-based acceptance regimes.

BlueScope's Australian business, Australian Steel Products (ASP) employs around 7,000 employees at approximately 100 sites, being a mix of large manufacturing plants, rollforming facilities and distribution centres across Australia. The segment specialises in flat steel products, including hot rolled coil, cold rolled coil, plate and value-added metallic coated and painted steel solutions. BlueScope brands include COLORBOND® steel, TRUECORE® steel, ZINCALUME® steel, XLERPLATE® steel, and REDCOR® steel.

Ai GROUP APPRENTICE AND TRAINEE CENTRE

CHOICE ENERGY

aigroupapprentices.com.au

Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre has been helping Australian businesses of all sizes to improve their bottom line for almost 150 years. They are part of a national system with over 35,000 apprentices and trainees in wide and varied trades and employment. They place apprentices and trainees with host organisations across all states and territories, and are a proud partner to more than 200 host organisations, including some of Australia’s leading organisations.

ALTEX COATINGS altexcoatings.com

Since 1954 Altex has grown to become one of the largest privately-owned manufacturers of high-performance coatings in Australasia. They work with owners, engineers, construction companies, contractors, steel fabricators and applicators, serving every major industry sector with superior corrosion and asset protection, plus maintenance solutions and program that meet customers' needs and expectations AUSTRALIANSUPER australiansuper.com

AustralianSuper is Australia’s largest super fund, managing $288 billion1 in assets on behalf of 3.1 million1 members.

Read the PDS and TMD online at www.australiansuper.com AustralianSuper Pty Ltd, ABN 94 006 457 987, AFSL 233788, Trustee of AustralianSuper ABN 65 714 394 898. 1As at 31 March 2023.

BAUMANN baumann-sideloaders.com.au

Baumann is a world-class manufacturer of sideloaders from three to 60 tonnes capacity - with a reputation for consistent innovation, and the highest level of design and productivity.

Our comprehensive range of sideloaders handle a multitude of products, typically considered long or bulky, and most commonly timber and steel. Nevertheless, their machines are also specified to suit the demands and nuances of plastic, concrete and other manufacturing sectors, and because Baumann builds machines to last, they value loyalty, longevity and experience very highly.

choiceenergy.com.au

Australian owned and operated, with more than 8,000 customers, Choice Energy is an award-winning commercial energy consultancy, which believes in a predictable, fair and lowcost energy future for businesses. With significant energy price increases anticipated for businesses over the next two years, there has never been a more important time to engage an expert to build confidence in your energy strategy and keep overheads as low as possible. Choice Energy can help with: complimentary energy bill health checks (electricity and gas); commercial energy broking and procurement (small and large-market); and quality commercial solar solutions with leading warranties and a performance guarantee.

COMBILIFT combilift.com

Combilift manufactures a wide range of innovative solutions for the safe and space saving handling and storage of long and bulky loads. Capable of indoor and outdoor operations, Combilift’s multidirectional forklifts are ideal for the requirements of the metals sector.

They can be deployed from the initial stages of offloading raw materials, feeding the production lines, through to the handling, storage and dispatch of finished product.

C.R. KENNEDY survey.crkennedy.com.au

C.R. Kennedy – Building Construction is the largest national importer and distributor of construction measurement and mapping equipment in Australia. They are the exclusive distributor for global giant Leica Geosystems and with offices and service centres in all capital cities, C.R. Kennedy offers a service that matches the calibre of the brands they carry.

EXCISION excision.com.au

Excision is a manufacturer and importer of premium quality industrial cutting solutions.

With over 30 years of experience, Excision ensures their clients have confidence in every cut. They specialise in a complete solution for steel processing including machinery and consumables. Excision's product range extends from bandsaw and circular saw machines to blades, tooling, lubricants, and release agents. Also, with their new Australian

FICEP ficepgroup.com

Headquartered in Varese, Italy, Ficep is the leading manufacturer of machine tools for the steel construction fabrication industry with customers in nearly 90 countries globally. The company provides the world’s widest range of machines for both the structural steel and the forging industries. Ficep was founded by the family of the present owners in 1930. Over the years the company has grown from being a manufacturer of manual machines to be the global leader in manufacturing the most advanced CNC machines and automatic systems for the steel construction and forging industry.

GRIDBEYOND gridbeyond.com

GridBeyond’s vision is to build a shared energy economy that delivers sustainability, resilience, affordability and adaptability through collaboration and innovation. By bridging the gap between distributed energy resources and electricity markets, our technology means every connected asset, whether its utility-scale renewables generation, battery storage or industrial load, can be utilised to help balance the grid.

Combining solvers, market access, and automatic trading in one place, including balancing services, capacity markets and the participation in the wholesale traded markets, our technology empowers C&I businesses, EV fleet operators, generators, and energy storage operators to maximise revenues and savings.

GS1 AUSTRALIA gs1au.org

Supporting the steel industry with the foundational building blocks to achieve supply chain digitisation has been a long-term commitment that GS1 Australia has made to the industry over many years and continues to work with key stakeholders as new supply chain frontiers are faced. GS1 standards— making it possible for traceability systems to talk. Implement GS1 global data standards to: boost logistics efficiency; meet customer demand for transparency; support sustainable practices; help fight counterfeiting; protect brand integrity; manage certifications; perform effective recalls; comply with regulatory requirements; and manage warranty claims.

IMPACT MACHINERY impactmachinery.com.au

Impact Machinery provides cutting edge technology to manufacturers to increase production and profitability and reduce errors. Their goal is to provide solutions for cost effective manufacturing, through improved design, layout, and manufacturing technology. Impact Machinery supplies steel fabrication equipment for processing and assembly, including robotics, beamline, plasma, plate processing, anglelines, blasting, painting solutions and automated robotic welding systems.

INFRABUILD infrabuild.com

InfraBuild is Australia’s largest processor and distributor of steel long products, including reinforcing bar, reinforcing mesh, tubular and hollow sections, merchant bar and wire products. It is Australia’s largest vertically integrated, electric arc furnace-based long steel manufacturer with more than 4,700 employees across more than 150 locations nation-

wide. InfraBuild recycles approximately 1.4 million tonnes of scrap metal annually through their 26 scrap metal recycling sites across Australia and their global sites in Poland, USA and Hong Kong. InfraBuild operates two steel long product producing electric arc furnaces located in Rooty Hill, Sydney; and Laverton, Melbourne. It also has a manufacturing facility in Dalian, China. InfraBuild also operates a network of 113 retail and processing sites across Australia, including our steel in concrete distribution businesses InfraBuild Reinforcing and the Australian Reinforcing Company.

INTEGRATED STEEL SOLUTIONS integratedsteelsolutions.com

Integrated Steel Solutions proudly supports STRUMIS and bocad locally through sales, training and after sales support throughout Australia. STRUMIS connects, streamlines, and simplifies all your steel fabrication projects and resources reducing errors and increasing efficiency by providing complete project traceability. bocad offers a complete solution for the modelling and fabrication of all types of steel structures.

A modern user interface offers a logical workflow allowing users to design and model projects quickly and accurately, and deliverables required for fabrication and construction always reflect the model and are high quality.

RAMSETTM ramset.com.au

Using 70 years of industry experience, Ramset™ products are designed to meet the demands of the modern construction industry. Listening to customers and constantly innovating our products, Ramset™ understands what’s needed and ensure their products live up to the highest standards. Time is money on a building site, which is why all Ramset™ products are designed for worksite efficiency and ease of use. Founded on the back of powder-actuated technology, Ramset™ has built an enviable reputation for innovation and quality. Through the continuous improvement of this technology and anchoring and bracing innovations, Ramset has created industry-recognised names like FrameBoss™, DynaBolt™, OrbiPate™ and Chemset™.

FEATURE: AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

made material handling manufacturing, Excision now offers custom solutions for steel companies wanting to automate and increase efficiency.

TREMCO tremco.com.au

Tremco is committed to shaping the future through innovative approaches and sustainable solutions, backed by first-class technology with a customer-focused approach. From joint sealing, façade bonding and insulation through to passive fire protection, performance resin flooring, waterproofing and roofing solutions, Tremco's broad range makes them the ideal partner to solve the complex challenges faced by today’s architects, contractors, developers, and tradesmen.

UNITED STEEL unitedsteel.com.au

The United Steel team works closely with customers, supplying a comprehensive range of steel products, valued added processing, and steel supply chain options for projects across Australia. They are a customer-focused, steel supply partner that services many industries. Their team has the depth of industry experience, providing personalised service, surety through stockholdings, and delivery options to suit our customers' requirements. United Steel operates in WA, SA, VIC, TAS and NSW, and with our United Steel group of businesses including GAM Steel and Calibre Steel, they make it easy for customers to source their steel Australia-wide.

33

NEW ASI MEMBERS ASSOCIATE MEMBERS FICEP S.p.A T: +39 0332 876 111 W: ficepgroup.com A: via Matteotti 21, 21045 Gazzada Schianno, Varese, Italy Philip Smith Consulting T: 0481 121 535 W: linkedin.com/in/philip-smith4913bb16/ A: 77 Rees Avenue, Coorparoo Queensland PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS Aldanmark T: 03 6234 8666 E: mail@aldanmark.com.au W: aldanmark.com.au A: Lower Ground Floor, 199 Macquarie Street, Hobart, Tasmania ECLIPS Engineering T: 02 6162 2826 E: info@eclips.engineering W: eclips.engineering A: 17 Isa Street, Fyshwick Australian Capital Territory Finnco T: 0477 667 737 E: engineer@finncoeng.com.au W: finncoeng.com.au A: 160a Argyle Street, Picton New South Wales Gama Consulting T: 08 7123 4050 E: admin@gamaconsulting.com.au W: gamaconsulting.com.au A: Suite 3, Level 1, 83 Fullarton Road Kent Town, South Australia JP Drafting Services T: 0433 366 435 E: jpatel@jpdrafting.com.au W: jpdrafting.com.au A: 191 Philip Highway, Elizabeth South South Australia Edanbrook Consultancy Services T: 08 9288 1810 E: bruce.wood@edanbrook.com.au W: edanbrook.com.au A: Level 28, 140 St Georges Terrace Perth, Western Australia MANUFACTURER MEMBERS MYT Framing Solutions T: 0433 366 435 E: info@mytframing.com.au W: mytframing.com.au A: 191 Philip Highway, Elizabeth South South Australia

Nurigong Steel T: 02 6042 4899 E: mgmt@nurigong.com.au W: nurigong.com.au A: 516 Nurigong Street, South Albury New South Wales CMG Frames T: 03 9310 1413 E: info@cmgframes.com.au W: cmgframes.com.au A: 32 Industrial Drive, Sunshine West Victoria FABRICATOR MEMBERS Aarti Fabrications T: 1300 124 000 E: harry@aartifabrications.com.au W: aartifabrications.com.au A: 20 Melbourne Road, Riverstone New South Wales ABECK Group T: 03 9706 4440 E: sales@abeckgroup.com.au W: abeckgroup.com.au A: 4 Monterey Road, Dandenong South Victoria Ascent Structural and Architectural Steel T: 08 9454 4333 W: ascentstructural.com.au A: 110 Sultana Road West High Wycombe, Western Australia Adesa Services T: 08 9356 3366 E: info@adesaservices.com.au W: adesaservices.com.au A: 7 Dyer Road, Bassendean Western Australia Belladonna Steel Fabrication T: 0439 523 215 E: robert@belladonnasteel.com.au W: belladonnasteel.com.au A: 398A Victoria Road, Malaga Western Australia Dodd Structural T: 0420 285 808 W: instagram.com/doddstructuralptyltd A: 13 Production Drive, Campbellfield Victoria Dream Fabrication T: 0449 102 213 E: info@dreamengineering.com.au W: dreamengineering.com.au A: 101 East Derrimut Crescent, Derrimut Victoria Dwyer Engineering T: 08 9729 2922 E: enquiries@dwyereng.com.au W: dwyereng.com.au A: 16-22 Spencer Street, Harvey Western Australia

Entegra Trading T: 1300 296 206 W: entegra.com.au A: 180 Karinie Street, Swan Hill Victoria Fichera Engineering T: 03 9338 5556 A: 20-22 Lindon Court, Tullamarine Victoria Hanlon Industries T: 1300 202 280 E: admin@hanlonindustries.com.au W: hanlonindustries.com.au A: 85 Heales Road, Corio Victoria Inverell Fabrication T: 0428 118 772 W: inverellfab.com.au A: 39 Rifle Range Road, Inverell New South Wales Murray Engineering T: 08 6459 7800 E: sales@murrayengineering.com.au W: murrayengineering.com.au A: 54 Munday Avenue, Pinjarra Western Australia SGA Engineering T: 03 9747 9600 E: office@sgaengineering.com.au W: sgaengineering.com.au A: 1/67 High Street, Melton Victoria Traralgon Industries T: 03 5174 4299 E: info@tindustries.com.au W: tindustries.com.au A: 33-35 Eastern Road Traralgon East, Victoria Tub Built Industries T: 0438 454 371 E: tub@tubbuiltindustries.com W: facebook.com/tubbuiltindustries A: 52 West Road, Buronga New South Wales Walz Group T: 07 4976 7999 E: sales@walzgroup.biz W: walzgroup.biz A: 17 Garfield Street, Gladstone Queensland WFM Co T: 0431 729 663 W: winterfab.com.au A: Lot 6, Gowrie-Glencoe Road Glencoe, Queensland

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ASI MEMBERSHIP AND JOIN THE ASI TODAY >>>

Design of Portal Frame Buildings: Fifth edition now available Design of Portal Frame Buildings presents procedures for the design of portal frame buildings based on Australian standards.

Portal framed steel clad structures are the most common type of industrial buildings. They find extensive use as industrial factory and warehouse structures, and as indoor sporting venues. The major components of a portal frame building are a series of parallel portal shaped frames as the major framing elements. Each frame is rigid, and resists horizontal wind forces and gravity loads in the plane of the frame by flexural action.

The fifth edition (2023) has been updated to cater for the 2020 steel structures code AS 4100, the 2021 wind code AS/NZS 1170.2 and the introduction of a new methodology for determining the break-out capacity of cast-in holding down bolts.

The method of dealing with local pressure patches first presented in the fourth edition has been expanded to provide a two-tiered approach for purlin and girt design with a simpler but conservative primary design

option and a more complex secondary option. The deflection limits for crane supporting structures have been changed to better reflect Canadian, US and European practice. However the crane runways and monorails code AS 1418.18 is under revision and further changes including serviceability load requirements may result.

The opportunity has also been taken in the 5th edition to correct some errors and to generally refine and update the previous edition. As in previous editions, the design of bored piers is generally in accordance with the limit states design approach of AS 2159-2009 but with different geotechnical capacity reduction factors proposed depending on whether the piers are classified as short or long.

The quadratic expression derived from Broms’ work by the authors for use in determining the lateral load capacity of short bored piers in cohesive soils continues to be presented in the text of Chapter 7. This expression facilitates the preparation of spreadsheet programs for determining the lateral capacity of bored piers. The book should prove of great assistance to practising engineers as well as students.

DESIGN OF PORTAL FRAME BUILDINGS including crane runway beams and monorails

Fifth Edition 2023

INSIDE THE ASI | STEEL AUSTRALIA | VOL 36 NO 3 2023

ASI LIBRARY & BOOKSHOP UPDATE

Authors: S.T. Woolcock, S. Kitipornchai and M.A. Bradford www.steel.org.au | 02 8748 0180 | enquiries@steel.org.au

FURTHER INFORMATION For further information, contact bookshop@steel.org.au.

To purchase any of the ASI's books, simply visit the ASI Library or Bookshop today.

UPCOMING ASI EVENTS The ASI has several exciting events on the horizon, with subject matter ranging from structural steel fabrication and welding for engineers through to finite element analysis of steel structures. Bookings will be available on our website as soon as dates are confirmed. Visit steel.org.au for further information.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ASI EVENTS AND REGISTER NOW >>>

Event Title

Event Format

Location

Reducing the risk of fatigue failure of fabricated steelwork

Webcast seminar

Online

New South Wales and ACT Christmas Luncheon

In-person networking

Sydney

AS 4100 Steel structures design

Face-to-face seminar

Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth

Developments in traceability for compliance and sustainability in construction

Hybrid face-to-face and webcast seminar

Sydney and online

35

25

UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE SPACE!

ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE AND EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT

Combilift provides handling solutions specifically tailored to solve the challenges faced by the Steel industry. Our ethos is helping customers increase storage without the need to expand the size of their facility. Understanding the available space and how it is being used is critical to running a more sustainable and profitable business.

Our range of multidirectional forklifts, pedestrian reach trucks, straddle carriers and container loaders will allow you to maximize the capacity, productivity and enhance the safety of your facility.

CONTACT US TODAY

To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

combilift.com