Engineering for Public Works - Issue 27, June 2025

ENGINEERING

FOR PUBLIC WORKS ISSUE NUMBER 2025 June Journal Incorporating the Excellence Awards Commemorative Feature and Annual Conference Highlights

27

www.ipwea-qnt.com

2025 Event Calendar P6

New Professional Development Courses and Topics Available in 2025 P10

2024 Annual Conference and Excellence Awards Recap P28

Feature Articles: Hear the Latest on emerging projects in our sector P72

CONTENTS CEO’s Report

4

Sponsorship Opportunities

7

2025 Events

8

2025 Professional Development

12

Technical Update

27

IPWEA-QNT Membership

28

2024 Annual Conference

30

2024 Excellence Awards

44

Knowledge Centre - Most Viewed Articles 2025

70

Events Report

72

What is Measured, Matters: The Role of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in Roadway Asset Management

78

Excellence and Innovation: The Bushland Beach Channel Naturalisation and Circular Economy Project

82

Flood Resilience on a Budget – Pushing Back For Better Roads and Better Value

84

2024 Futures Challenge

88

Automating Construction Carbon Tracking Through AI-Powered Invoice Interpretation

90

Young IPWEA-QNT Membership Meetup

96

Meet the IPWEA-QNT Team

100

Member Milestones

101

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Northlane Consulting Engineers specialises in the RPEQ supervised design and delivery of complex and time-critical projects.

Focusing on disaster recovery and engineering design, Northlane delivers comprehensive and resilient engineering solutions that strengthen the communities we serve. Our long term experience delivering DRFA programs makes us an invaluable partner for local Councils and government agencies across Queensland.

With offices in Mount Isa and on the Sunshine Coast, we provide expert civil engineering solutions, infrastructure planning and design services across Queensland. Our handson approach and focus on building local knowledge have earned us the trust of the communities we serve.

Let our experience drive your project delivery outcomes.

Visit us at northlane.com.au

Innovation

Teamwork

Integrity

Community

CEO’s Report

CEO’s Report

CEO’S REPORT Brett Wright I am proud to announce that after a strong and productive start to the year a positive outlook lays ahead for IPWEAQNT in 2025 as we seek to showcase our new and improved products, services and training designed to advance the careers, businesses and organisations in the Public Works sector.

Following an incredible 2024, where most recently our industry’s cutting-edge projects and resources were displayed at the Annual Conference and Excellence Awards, IPWEA-QNT is carrying this momentum into this year’s branch conferences and member events.

Over the past six months, IPWEA-QNT has welcomed two new team members, Ivan Fan, Manager Technical Services and James Breene, Membership & Communications Officer.

Ivan and James bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, which complements our already diverse and experienced team as we seek to grow IPWEA-QNT with enhanced technical products and greater dissemination of updates throughout our network.

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IPWEA-QNT has taken the strategic step to promote Jesper Jensen to the role of Chief Operating Officer. After joining in August 2023, Jesper has made significant contributions to our organisation, leading the development of several critical updates and new technical products and, alongside Emily Yiannakis, Manager, Professional Development, overhauling our professional development programs.

Our Asset Design As Constructed (ADAC) data specification platform continues to gain momentum with a growing uptake across Queensland and, more recently, into New South Wales. ADAC is a powerful tool that assists councils with digitising infrastructure assets and integrate them into asset management and finance systems.

The practical and cost-effective solution for improving data quality and long-term planning has recently been updated with the release of Version 6 of the schema.

We are proud to continue our role as an RPEQ assessment panel for the Board of Professional Engineers Queensland. If you’re a civil engineer working in public works and looking to gain your registration, we’re ideally positioned to support your application with sector-relevant guidance and expertise. IPWEA-QNT is proud to announce we have welcomed five new RPEQs approved under our Assessment Scheme in 2025.

CEO’s Report

We’ve also continued to strengthen our technical standards. In December 2023, we released an updated set of our Standard Drawings. The Standard Drawings are the product of years of hard work and the contribution from volunteers who make up the IPWEA-QNT Standard Drawing Working Group. Also in 2024, we added new CAD and Survey Standards to our offering, developed by a group of QLD LGAs in conjunction with IPWEA-QNT through the CAD Standards Working Group for the general use by the public works sector. These are practical tools that promote consistency, reduce inefficiencies, and ultimately lift the quality of infrastructure delivery across the sector.

Later this year, we’ll commence a major review of the Queensland Urban Drainage Manual (QUDM). This upgrade will include a stronger focus on rural drainage, including floodways and related infrastructure. A call for expressions of interest will be lodged in the next few months, so if you are keen to contribute, keep an eye out.

CEO’s Report

We are excited to announce the upcoming release of the Resilient Road Infrastructure Guide (RRIG). This important new publication will launch by the 30th of June and provides guidance for managing and improving the resilience of local road networks in the face of increasingly frequent natural disasters. It’s a timely and much needed resource for the public works sector. We thank our Steering Committee for their tireless efforts, which includes Austroads, Department of Transport and Main Roads Qld, councils, associations and consultants.

Our popular Public Works Technical Subscription (PWTS) provides access to our suite of technical resources as well as discounts on events and training throughout the year. The PWTS is now available in 3 subscription tiers – Gold, Silver and Bronze with new resources being added in FY26.

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CEO’s Report

CEO’s Report

Rebecca Cobon, General Manager, Membership & Corporate Partnerships, has worked closely with our Partners and Sponsors to develop these subscriptions and continues and to keep our member and subscriber benefits relevant to the evolving needs of the sector.

The last 12 months have seen a strong appetite for relevant, hands-on professional development. We continually seek to update our popular courses and provide new topics designed to support the growth and advancement the attendees’ careers.

One of our most popular offerings has been the Unsealed Roads Workshops, launched in 2024. These workshops are delivered both as public courses at scheduled locations and in a private format for individual councils or Regional Roads and Transport Groups. The two-day format blends theory with practical learning and includes either a soil mechanics workshop or a site visit to local unsealed road sites.

We continue to be busy delivering our 2-day Supervisor Workshops to regional and remote councils around QLD. This program it provides excellent grass roots civil public works engineering and leadership training for your up and coming work site leaders. We provide bespoke workshops on a wide variety of topics and can be done as a once off workshop or part of a longer and more structured development program.

With disaster recovery front of mind for many, we’re also preparing training to accompany the launch of the RRIG. There will be a free 1hr webinar giving an overview of the RRIG in August.

In addition, we are developing a new course focused on post-disaster inspections of structures, equipping infrastructure managers with the skills to assess bridges, culverts and other key road infrastructure assets quickly and safely after an event.

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The Stormwater Drainage Series will be based on QUDM and delivered over four months, with one full day per month, and a focus on both urban and rural drainage challenges. Sessions begin in August and can be attended either in person or online, with a mix of theory and practical content. This series will also include separate modules focused on hydrology, legal considerations, best-practice installation and asset management. The People Skills Series is designed specifically for public works professionals in local government. It will cover essential nontechnical capabilities, including leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement, to support well-rounded professional development.

To make things even easier, the second half of our 2025 training calendar is now live on our website and registration can be completed directly online. Our training courses can be delivered privately, whether that’s for a single council or a cluster of organisations looking for a more efficient, cost-effective approach to upskilling their teams. Emily Yiannakis, has played a key role in shaping and streamlining our training offerings. Her commitment to developing a responsive and relevant professional development program ensures our courses remain practical, accessible and aligned with the evolving needs of the sector.

I would also like to acknowledge the other valued members of our team: Chloe Begley, Office Administrator; Justine Ennor and Anika Joglekar from our Events and Marketing team; and Judith Hale and Eleanor Lok from our Accounts team. Their ongoing commitment and hard work are instrumental in delivering our wide range of events, programs and services to members and the wider public works sector.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship Opportunities

Partnership & Sponsorship INFORMS.CONNECTS.REPRESENTS.LEADS.

Integrate Sponsor Opportunities The Event Integrate Sponsorship Opportunities allow you to select from a number of different event specific sponsorship offerings with targeted deliverables.

These sponsorship opportunities have been developed for individuals and businesses wanting to reach specific networks and key groups of the membership base and other key industry stakeholders.

Principal & Enterprise

Partner Packages The Partner Packages offer two robust platforms that provide you with the opportunity to engage and connect with potential customers by accessing our members and industry through our diverse events program, supported by results-driven marketing initiatives.

Principal PARTNER This package incorporates a full suite of opportunities across selected major events, including the Annual Conference and Excellence Awards. The package has been developed to elevate brand presence and achieve strong reach throughout the membership and public works sector, providing the platform to continue forging meaningful relationships and connecting to a more diverse customer base.

Enterprise PARTNER This package has been developed as a platform offering broad access to the membership database and over 5000 + industry contacts with inclusions in major events. The package provides a presence across a broad range of selected events and is designed to provide an introduction into the Public Works sector.

Associates Directory

Partners, Sponsors & Stakeholders IPWEA-QNT acknowledges these organisations who support the development of initiatives, products and services offered to the community and who contribute to the continued improvement and growth of the sector. The directory provides a list of organisations and businesses offering specific products or services that support the work being done in the public works sector.

Associates Directory Engineering Services Contact us at sponsorship@ipweaq.com for more information and opportunities tailored to your business.

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2025 Events

2025 Events 8

2025 Events

2025 Events

IPWEA-QNT’s suite of events is designed to offer the Public Works Engineering Community opportunities to engage, network, socialise, upskill and create pathways for advancement.

The IPWEA-QNT event suite provides a platform that...

INFORMS

CONNECTS

REPRESENTS

LEADS

Actively share content and information which informs all relevant stakeholders

Facilitate the bringing together of people and ideas

Elevate the collective views, expertise and professionalism of the sector

Advance the capability, capacity and sustainability of the sector

July 2025 Northern Territory Branch Conference NORTHERN TERRITORY

The NT Branch Conference will be held at Rydges Palmerston on 17 July 2025, showcasing the latest industry insights, technical know-how and providing a platform to connect with leading suppliers. With a range of presentations showcasing regional projects, you will have the chance to learn and network with some of the industry’s finest.

The Conference will be a one-day event, preceded by a Welcome Function the night before. On the main day, you’ll experience a technical tour of local projects followed by engaging presentations and dynamic “lightning talks.”

When & Where

Cost

Standard Registration

Date: 17 July Location: Rydges Palmerston, 15 Maluka Drive Palmerston City, NT 0830

Member: Full Conference Graduate Member: Full Conference Student Member: Full Conference Member: Welcome Function Only Non-Member: Full Conference Non-Member: Welcome Function Only Group Registration

$725+GST $650+GST $300+GST $90+GST $950+GST $100+GST 10% off

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2025 Events

August 2025 Events

2025 Drainage Forum Practical solutions for managing stormwater drainage assets The 2025 Drainage Forum is our inaugural high-level, oneday event focused on the construction, asset management and maintenance of stormwater drainage systems, specifically tailored to the needs of local governments.

Designed for asset owners, maintenance teams, contractors and consultants, the forum will address real-world challenges and practical approaches to the delivery, installation, inspection and upkeep of critical drainage infrastructure.

Held at the IPWEA-QNT head office, the event will also feature an exhibition from our leading industry partners and sponsors, showcasing innovative products, materials, and technologies that support long-term performance and resilience of drainage networks. It’s a must-attend for those responsible for ensuring stormwater systems remain functional, safe, and sustainable.

When & Where Date: 12 August Location: IPWEA-QNT Head Office 1/6 Eagleview Place, Eagle Farm QLD 4009

Cost $600+GST (member) $750+GST (non-member) Group registrations of 6 or more will receive a 10% discount

October 2025 IPWEA-QNT Annual Conference

Join us for another year filled with cutting-edge presentations, engaging discussions and valuable networking opportunities. Explore the latest trends, innovations and best practices in public works.

Expand your knowledge, connect with industry professionals and be inspired by thought leaders in the sector.

Register now and get ready to be part of this exceptional event. Stay tuned for updates on the conference agenda, keynote speakers and registration details.

When & Where

Cost

Date: 8-10 October Member: Full Conference Location: Royal International Graduate Member: Full Conference Convention Centre (Royal ICC), Member: One Day Only 600 Gregory Terrace Member: Welcome Function Only Bowen Hills QLD 4006 Non-Member: Full Conference Non-Member: One Day Only Non-Member: Welcome Function Only Group Registration

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Early Bird Standard Registration Registration $1850+GST $2250+GST -

$2100+GST $1750+GST $1100+GST $110+GST $2500+GST $1300+GST $120+GST 10% off

2025 Events

2025 Excellence Awards Gala The IPWEA-QNT Excellence Awards and Gala Dinner recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organisations to the Public Works and Engineering sector.

These awards provide the opportunity to showcase innovation and achievements in public works projects and the individuals involved.

When & Where

Cost

Date: 9 October Location: Royal International Convention Centre (Royal ICC), 600 Gregory Terrace Bowen Hills QLD 4006

Member: Non-Member:

$295+GST $325+GST

November 2025 IPWEA-QNT Mingle & Jingle This event is a relaxed and informal celebration at the end of the year. The event encourages members to get together with IPWEA-QNT staff, sponsors and supporters to enjoy a drink and some festive hospitality.

When & Where

Cost

CQ NQ NT SWQ SEQ

TBA

Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm Location/s: TBA

Subject to change. Please visit our website for the up-to-date list of our 2025 events.

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2025 Events

October - Continued

2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

Development

Our training courses and workshops are designed to provide opportunities to continue your professional development and support the growth and advancement of your career.

At IPWEA-QNT, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality educational experiences that cater to the evolving needs of professionals in the public works sector.

Whether you are seeking to enhance your technical expertise, upskill in certain areas or stay updated on industry changes, our offerings are designed to help you achieve your career goals. Additionally, we offer tailored private courses for companies, customised to meet your specific organisational needs and objectives, ensuring that your team receives the most relevant and impactful training.

For course enquiries delivered privately and directly to your council or organisation contact Manager, Professional Development, Emily Yiannakis - training@ipweaq.com 12

2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

July Flood Response Inspections for Road Structures Date: 22 July Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $1,200+GST (members)

$1,400+GST (non-member price)

Managing Risk on Lower Order Roads Date: 24 July Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Unsealed Roads Workshop | Toowoomba Date: 29 July Duration: 2 days CPD Hours: 16 hrs Location: Toowoomba QLD, Australia Price: $2,100+GST (members)

$2,400+GST (non-member price)

Bridge Inspection Level 1 & 2 Date: 29 July Duration: 3 days CPD Hours: 18 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $2,500+GST (members)

$2,800+GST (non-member price)

August Flood Response Inspections for Road Structures Date: 5 August Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Townsville QLD, Australia Price: $1,200+GST (members)

$1,400+GST (non-member price)

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2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

August - Continued Road Safety Audit Refresher Date: 7 August Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Online Price: $1,100+GST (members)

$1,300+GST (non-member price)

Spray Seal Construction and Failure Review Date: 12 August Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Online Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Roads Pavements Visual Condition Assessment and Asset Management | Toowoomba Date: 21 August Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Toowoomba QLD, Australia Price: $850+GST (members)

$1,000+GST (non-member price)

September Erosion and Sediment Control Level 3 Date: 2 September Duration: 3 days CPD Hours: 24 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $2,950+GST

Sediment Basin Design Date: 4 September Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $750+GST

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

September- Continued Bridge Inspection Level 1 & 2 Date: 16 September Duration: 3 days CPD Hours: 18 hrs Location: Mackay QLD, Australia Price: $2,500+GST (members)

$2,800+GST (non-member price)

Unsealed Roads Workshop | Longreach Date: 16 September Duration: 2 days CPD Hours: 16 hrs Location: Longreach QLD, Australia Price: $2,100+GST (members)

$2,400+GST (non-member price)

Temporary Traffic Management Date: 18 September Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 6 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $840+GST (members)

$1,040+GST (non-member price)

Native Title and Cultural Heritage | In Person Date: 25 September Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 6 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $1,100+GST (members)

$1,400+GST (non-member price)

Native Title and Cultural Heritage | Online Date: 25 September Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 6 hrs Location: Online Price: $1,050+GST (members)

$1,350+GST (non-member price)

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2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

October Bridge Inspection Level 1 & 2 Date: 14 October Duration: 3 days CPD Hours: 18 hrs Location: Cairns QLD, Australia Price: $2,500+GST (members)

$2,800+GST (non-member price)

Spray Seal Construction and Failure Review | Cairns Date: 14 October Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Cairns QLD, Australia Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Asphalt Construction and Failure Review | Cairns Date: 15 October Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Cairns QLD, Australia Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,000+GST (non-member price)

Roads Pavements Visual Condition Assessment and Asset Management | Gladstone Date: 16 October Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Gladstone QLD, Australia Price: $850+GST (members)

$1,000+GST (non-member price)

Asphalt Construction and Failure Review Date: 21 October Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Online Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,000+GST (non-member price)

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

October - Continued Unsealed Roads Workshop | Bundaberg Date: 21 October Duration: 2 days CPD Hours: 16 hrs Location: Bundaberg QLD, Australia Price: $2,100+GST (members)

$2,400+GST (non-member price)

Erosion and Sediment Control Level 2 Date: 30 October Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $550+GST

November Road Safety Audit Workshop Date: 5 November Duration: 2 days CPD Hours: 16 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $1,950+GST (members)

$2,250+GST (non-member price)

Erosion and Sediment Control Level 3 Date: 11 November Duration: 3 days CPD Hours: 24 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $2,950+GST

Sediment Basin Design Date: 13 November Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $750+GST

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2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

November - Continued Flood Response Inspections for Road Structures Date: 18 November Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Bundaberg QLD, Australia Price: $1,200+GST (members)

$1,400+GST (non-member price)

Unsealed Roads Workshop Date: 25 November Duration: 2 days CPD Hours: 16 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $2,100+GST (members)

$2,400+GST (non-member price)

December Sprayed Seal Design Date: 2 December Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 7 hrs Location: Online Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Roads Pavements Visual Condition Assessment and Asset Management Date: 4 December Duration: 1 day CPD Hours: 8 hrs Location: Head Office | Eagle Farm QLD, Australia Price: $850+GST (members)

$1,000+GST (non-member price)

Subject to change. Please visit our website for the up-to-date list of our 2025 Professional Development Courses.

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Public works professionals are the backbone of our communities.

While technical knowledge and operational expertise are vital, the ability to communicate effectively, build trust, resolve conflict, and lead with empathy is just as crucial to success in the field.

This course series is designed to strengthen the interpersonal and communication skills needed to thrive in today’s public works environment. Whether you’re working with team members, engaging with the public, or collaborating across departments, these courses will equip you with practical tools to foster positive relationships, navigate challenges, and represent your organisation with confidence and professionalism.

Through real-world scenarios, interactive discussions, and hands-on exercises, you’ll develop the people skills that make a lasting impact—not just on projects, but on the communities you serve.

Leading Well

Impactful Communication

Date: Duration: Location: Price:

16 September 0.5 days Brisbane $450+GST (members) $550+GST (non-member price)

Date: Duration: Location: Price:

2 October 0.5 day Brisbane $450+GST (members) $550+GST (non-member price)

Date: Duration: Location: Price:

28 October 0.5 days Online $350+GST (members) $450+GST (non-member price)

Date: Duration: Location: Price:

25 November 0.5 day Online $350+GST (members) $450+GST (non-member price)

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development Whether you’re just starting out in stormwater and drainage or you’re an experienced practitioner needing a refresher, this new training series offers practical, up-to-date learning designed to meet Australia’s current and future infrastructure needs.

Developed in partnership with leading technical experts and aligned with the Queensland Urban Drainage Manual (QUDM) and national standards, the program features a collection of interactive modules covering urban drainage, rural drainage, hydrology, and asset management topics. Each session is designed to bridge the gap between theory and on-ground application - with tools, worked examples, and case studies based on real-world scenarios.

Key features: Hybrid delivery model. in-person and remote attendees receive the same practical, engaging training.

Built-in interactivity. featuring group discussions, live calculation demos, and hands-on activities to apply what you learn.

Practical focus. grounded in real project experience, field-based lessons, and lessons learned shared by industry-leading facilitators.

Flexible format. choose a single Module, follow the full Series, or mix and match Modules to meet your specific needs.​ Regional reach. designed to support professionals in regional areas across QLD, NT and throughout Australia.

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

Each module can be taken on its own or as part of a broader development pathway. Explore the below Modules and find the right fit for your role, team, or project goals.

Stormwater Drainage Webinars QUDM Overview This introductory webinar provides a guided walkthrough of the Queensland Urban Drainage Manual (QUDM) — essential for anyone involved in drainage design or compliance. Understand how to navigate the document, what’s changed, and how it applies across urban and rural drainage contexts.

Presented by Quilty Engineering Hub

​Legal Responsibility for Drainage Systems Learn about the legal framework that underpins stormwater drainage in Queensland.​

Legal Point of Discharge This webinar will explore the lawful point of discharge test in chapter 3 of QUDM by way of case studies and practical examples. The webinar will explain the legal context behind the limbs of the lawful point of discharge test, and explain key practical factors to consider in evaluating whether stormwater changes will satisfy lawful point of discharge or no actionable nuisance requirements.

Presented by McCullough Robertson

The Series

Facilitators

Webinar

QUDM Overview Date: TBC Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm CPD Hours: 2 hrs Price: Free

Webinar

Legal Point of Discharge Date: TBC Time: TBC CPD Hours: TBC Price: Free

Webinar

Legal Responsibility for Drainage Systems Date: TBC Time: TBC CPD Hours: TBC Price: Free

Sean Quilty Co-Founder | Director | Educator Chartered Civil Engineer MEngPrac BEngTech MIEAust CPEng NER RPEQ RPEV

Sarah Hausler Planning and Environment / Infrastructure Partner McCullough Robertson

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2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

Stormwater Hydrology Stormwater Hydrology Australian Rainfall and Runoff (ARR) is the national guideline for flood estimation, incorporating the latest data, modelling tools, and methodologies. This 1-day hybrid course, available in-person or online, equips participants with a solid foundation in the principles and best practices of the current ARR guidelines.

Participants will gain an understanding of key concepts including rainfall data analysis, hydrologic and hydraulic modelling, and design flood estimation techniques. Through a combination of theory and practical case studies, this course bridges the gap between technical guidelines and real-world application-empowering attendees to confidently apply ARR methodologies in their professional projects.

Presented by Mark Babister

Mark Babister Managing Director​ BE(Hons), MEngSc, GradDipMgt, RPEQ

Brisbane / Online

Stormwater Hydrology Date: 15 July Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm CPD Hours: 8 hrs Price: $900 (members) $1,100 (non-members)

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Urban Drainage Design Module 1

Module 3

Catchment Delineation & Rational Method Learn how to assess catchment characteristics, apply the Rational Method, and understand the impacts of rainfall, climate change, and urbanisation. Includes practical IFD data usage and calculations.

Pipe Design Covers pipe sizing, hydraulic grade line analysis, structural considerations, and use of QUDM tools such as pipe flow charts and pressure loss coefficients.

​ Module 2

Module 4

Inlet Design Explore kerb, grate, and combination inlet design, road flow capacity, blockage factors, and QUDM-based design standards, including sag and on-grade pit designs.

Detention Systems Compare detention tanks vs basins, understand design constraints and emergency spillways, and explore hydrograph creation and postdevelopment site impacts.

Hybrid delivery model.

In-person or remote attendance Flexible Format.

Choose a single Module, mix and match or follow the full series and SAVE $400

Sean Quilty

Explore the modules below to find the right fit for your role, team, or project goals.

Co-Founder | Director | Educator Chartered Civil Engineer MEngPrac BEngTech MIEAust CPEng NER RPEQ RPEV

The Series

Brisbane / Online Modules 1-4

Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November

Single Modules

Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 24 hrs Price In-Person: $2,800 (members) $3,400 (non-members) Price Online: $2,400 (members) $3,000 (non-members)

Brisbane

Online

Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Price (each):

Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

$800 (members), $950 (non-members) Price (each):

$700 (members), $850 (non-members)

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

Rural Drainage Design Module 1

Module 3

Flood Management & Floodways Understand the difference between pluvial (overland) and fluvial (river) flooding. This module covers flood resilience strategies, emergency evacuation planning, floodway and causeway design, biodiversity impacts, and the influence of climate change on flood behaviour.

Channel Design Learn rural channel design using Manning’s equation, explore subcritical vs supercritical flow, hydraulic jumps, and tailwater conditions. Develop design spreadsheets including rating curves and apply rural catchment hydrology principles.

​ Module 2

Module 4

Inlet Design Dive into environmental impacts of rural drainage, including pollutant types (gross pollutants, TSS, TN, TP), biodiversity issues, and hydrological effects. Incorporates WSUD and WSRD principles and aligns with QUDM environmental considerations.

Culvert Design This module guides you through culvert sizing and design using both QUDM and Austroads methodologies. Topics include inlet/outlet control, freeboard, rock pad design, and responding to climate change and blockage risks.

Hybrid delivery model.

In-person or remote attendance Flexible Format.

Choose a single Module, mix and match or follow the full series and SAVE $400

Sean Quilty

Explore the modules below to find the right fit for your role, team, or project goals.

Co-Founder | Director | Educator Chartered Civil Engineer MEngPrac BEngTech MIEAust CPEng NER RPEQ RPEV

The Series

Brisbane / Online Modules 1-4

Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November

Single Modules

Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 24 hrs Price In-Person: $2,800 (members) $3,400 (non-members) Price Online: $2,400 (members) $3,000 (non-members)

Brisbane

Online

Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 2 | Inlet Design, 16 September Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 3 | Pipe Design, 7 October Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 4 | Detention Systems, 4 November Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

Price (each):

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Module 1 | Catchment Delineation, 19 August Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm CPD Hours: 6 hrs

$800 (members), $950 (non-members) Price (each):

$700 (members), $850 (non-members)

Stormwater System Managment Stormwater Drainage Construction Best Practices This practical training course provides essential guidance on the effective delivery of stormwater infrastructure projects, with a focus on industry best practices across all stages of construction. Participants will gain insights into project planning and execution, quality assurance and control, and the integration of sustainable construction methods. ​ The course also includes dedicated training on the use of the latest PipeClass design software by the Concrete Pipe Association of Australasia (CPAA), equipping attendees with modern tools for pipe design and structural assessment. Key topics include safety and risk management, stakeholder engagement, and contract management-providing a comprehensive overview of construction delivery from concept to completion.

Stormwater Drainage Asset Management, Inspection & Maintenance Effective stormwater infrastructure performance relies on proactive asset management and informed maintenance practices. This course delivers practical training on managing drainage assets across their full lifecycle-from condition assessment to repair strategies.

Participants will explore key areas such as asset lifecycle management, routine and preventive maintenance planning, and structural assessment techniques. The course also covers common forms of material deterioration and repair methods, safety and compliance in maintenance activities, and the use of digital tools to support asset tracking, reporting, and long-term decision-making.

By the end of the course, attendees will be equipped to implement structured asset management plans that support long-term sustainability and service delivery.​​ Flexible delivery. Practical outcomes. QUDM aligned.

All modules are delivered in a hybrid format, led by industry experts. Secure your place mid2025 and gain the practical skills needed for tomorrow’s stormwater drainage challenges!

Presented by Quilty Engineering Hub & the Concrete Pipe Association of Australasia (CPAA)

Brisbane / Online

Stormwater Drainage Construction Best Practices Date: 21 October Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm​​ CPD Hours: 8 hrs Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Sean Quilty Co-Founder | Director | Educator Chartered Civil Engineer MEngPrac BEngTech MIEAust CPEng NER RPEQ RPEV

Brisbane / Online

Stormwater Drainage Asset Management, Inspection & Maintenance Date: 25 November Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm​ CPD Hours: 8 hrs Price: $900+GST (members)

$1,100+GST (non-member price)

Karen Thompson Executive Director Chartered Civil Engineer MEngPrac BEngTech MIEAust CPEng NER RPEQ RPEV

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2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development

2025 Professional Development 2025 Professional Development

IPWEA-QNT are pleased to bring you a series of free informative webinar presentations on a range on our products and resources. We will also provide an oversight into our technical publications that we currently have for sale.

These webinars are free to attend, you simply need to register and you will be sent the link a few days prior. Each webinars date is listed at www.ipwea-qnt.com/webinars.

Topics include:

:

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• • • • •

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Knowledge Centre RPEQ Assessment Standard Drawings CAD Standards Supervisors Handbook

Resilient Road Infrastructure Guideline (RRIG) QLD Urban Drainage Manual (QUDM) Lower Order Roads Design Guide (LORDG) Asset Design As Constructed (ADAC) Resilient Road Infrastructure Guideline (RRIG)

TECHNICAL UPDATE IPWEA-QNT releases 1st Edition of the Resilient Road Infrastructure Guideline (RRIG) IPWEA-QNT is proud to announce the release of the 1st Edition of the Resilient Road Infrastructure Guideline (RRIG) in June 2025.

It is a comprehensive new resource to support road owners and practitioners in designing, planning, and managing more resilient road networks across Queensland.

The RRIG is informed by real-world case studies, expert guidance, and extensive sector consultation. It offers practical design and planning approaches that help reduce long-term recovery costs and ensure roads remain functional and safe during and after disaster events.

This initiative has been funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s (QRA) Resilience and Risk Reduction Fund (2021–22), with co-investment and technical leadership by IPWEA-QNT.

IPWEA-QNT Chief Operating Officer, Jesper Jensen, welcomed the announcement saying:

“We are indebted to the tireless efforts of our Steering Committee, which includes Austroads, TMR, councils, associations and consultants. In addition, review and comments were also submitted by several external stakeholders. This update would not have been possible without their efforts, and we thank them for their contribution.”

For more information visit www.ipwea-qnt.com

View our full Technical Document suite!

• • • •

Lower Order Road Design Guideline Queensland Urban Drainage Manual Temporary Traffic Management Toolkit Street Design Manual

• • • •

CAD Standards Survey Standards Supervisor’s Handbook Standard Drawings

Visit our online store at www.ipwea-qnt.com to access our leading-edge technical solutions, widely adapted across the public works sector.

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Technical Update

Technical Update

IPWEA-QNT Membership

IPWEA-QNT Membership

MEMBERSHIP Why Join?

Membership Types & Fees

Joining the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland and Northern Territory is an investment you and your business will see valuable returns from. Membership provides the gateway into a community which opens up opportunities to access networks, resources, support and professional development to advance your skills, knowledge and grow your business.

Member | $440 incl GST Anyone actively engaged in the delivery of public works and services in Queensland or the Northern Territory. Note: that this does not exclude someone from NSW or any other state from joining if they are active in our sector.

Membership Individual Membership Membership is open to anyone actively involved in the delivery of public works and engineering services in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

IPWEA-QNT membership serves a wide range of professions across state and local government and the private sector including engineers, technicians, public works directors, asset managers, supervisors and managers, fleet managers, project managers, finance and HR professionals, councillors, contractors, consultants, university students and many other public works professions.

When the membership community comes together at events, it is clear that great pride is taken in the projects delivered because the common goal is making a difference, whether its uniting people physically via roads, bridges and community centres, or perceptually with the sense of enjoyment, safety or convenience the projects bring to the communities we serve.

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Graduate | $315.70 incl GST A student who has recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in engineering. This category of membership is discounted to assist recent graduates for up to five years post-graduation.

Retired | $90.20 incl GST Members who are permanently retired on a full-time basis.

Student | Complimentary Complimentary student rates are for persons not in full-time employment and enrolled in full-time studies in civil engineering or related disciplines for the duration of their studies.

How to become a Member All new Memberships are for a 12-month term and commence from the date the application is submitted and payment has been confirmed. ​ Approaching your annual renewal date, a membership renewal notice will be automatically forwarded to the email address nominated in your membership profile.

Joining can be done via the IPWEA-QNT website or contacting membership@ipweaq.com.

IPWEA-QNT Membership

IPWEA-QNT Membership

Corporate Subscription A Corporate Subscription provides an organisation the opportunity to pay for membership for their employees.

To receive the corporate subscription discount an employer pays for a minimum of 6 staff members.

A $100 discount is applied to each individual’s membership.

•

Membership subscription discount! - $100 discount on individual memberships for employees. This only applies when the subscriber confirms a minimum of six (6) membership subscriptions. Available for a financial year only, commencing 1 July.

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Recognition - A Corporate subscriber receives acknowledgement as an employer of choice through: • The IPWEA-QNT website • Publications including the Monthly e-newsletter - Connect • Social media bulletins – LinkedIn, Facebook & Twitter • Other promotional activities and initiatives including events and professional development courses.

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Discounts $$$ - Corporate subscriber Individual members receive significant discounts on all courses, conferences, publications, and technical solutions which further benefits the employee and the organisation.

2025 Corporate Subscribers

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2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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2024 IPWEA-QNT ANNUAL CONFERENCE The 2024 conference was an opportunity for like-minded public works engineering professionals to converge on the emerging topics within the industry and to celebrate the accomplishments of their peers.

Brisbane’s Royal International Convention Centre played host to the three-day event, which saw over 350 engineers and industry professionals participate in cutting-edge presentations, discussions, networking opportunities and technical tours.

IPWEA-QNT thanks the many sponsors and exhibitors that presented an engaging view into their organisations and fields of expertise.

WEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER Day one of the conference commenced with a series of workshops, updates and informative sessions aimed at providing a variety of learning opportunities for attendees.

The Emerging Leader Workshop was presented

by NLP Master Practitioner and Dale Carnegie, Managing Director Australia, William Farmer.

2024 was the third year Mr Farmer presented the conference workshop. His workshop encourages participants to immerse themself in the art of conversation to build stronger relationships, while in session two emotional intelligence was the focus.

Running alongside the workshop was the Public Works Update. While other workshops aimed to develop attendees’ people skills, this update covered topics at the forefront of engineering in 2024.

The three-hour session featured addresses from Matt Bradbury, Sarah Hausler and Cameron Dean McCullough of Robertson Lawyers, Mandy Haldane from Department of Transport & Main Roads, Jesper Jensen from IPWEA-QNT and Glen Beckett from LGAQ.

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TECHNICAL TOURS Day one Technical Tours included major public infrastructure projects and facilities as well as a tour of a local private product manufacturing and testing facility.

Kangaroo Point Bridge Brisbane City Council showcased their new active transport bridge, making it even easier to walk or ride between Kangaroo Point, the eastern suburbs and the CBD. More than just a bridge project, the Kangaroo Point Bridge will become a must-visit destination for residents and visitors to our great city, with the final design featuring several unique riverside dining venues.

EJ Asia Pacific EJ Asia Pacific hosted delegates for a Technical Tour of their new innovative products, local NATA testing Facilities and local manufacturing. EJ presented their leading design, manufacture and distribution of access solutions for the world’s growing infrastructure.

From water and sewer, to drainage, telecommunication and utility projects, tour delegates learned about NATA testing, the Australian Standard AS3996:2019 for access covers & grates, the new EJ foundry in Michigan, Innovative Access Solutions, and Local Manufacturing.

Kangaroo Point Bridge: Credit @brizzy.pix

Cross River Rail Woolloongabba Station Cross River Rail is a second river crossing at the core of the rail network with capacity to run as many as 24 trains in each direction. The new underground station at Woolloongabba will provide passengers with high frequency services, as well as improved access to The Gabba Stadium and Woolloongabba’s local entertainment district.

Eagle Farm Sewage Pump Station SP010 services the S1 sewer catchment constituting most of the Brisbane City Council area north and south of the Brisbane River, east of Toowong. It is the city’s largest sewerage pump station, having a design capacity of 8,000L/s (currently limited to 7,300L/s) pumping along a rising main approximately 9.6km to Brisbane’s largest sewerage treatment facility, Luggage Point Wastewater Treatment Plant (LPWWTP).

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THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER Day two of the conference commenced with a Welcome to Country from Songwoman Maroochy Barambah, introduction by IPQEA-QNT President and Managing Director of Proterra Group, Sean Rice, and Keynote Speaker Adrian Hart, Head of Construction & Infrastructure, Oxford Economics Australia. Mr Hart presented the outlook for infrastructure activity, including construction and maintenance work in Queensland and the key drivers of growth.

Shortly followoing was the Conference Official opening, presented by Councillor Ryan Murphy, Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport and Councillor for Chandler.

After a brief morning tea Mr Rice, Mr Hart, Claire Wells, Senior Asset Engineer, Ventia, and Oliver Pring, General Manager Council Sustainability, Scenic Rim Regional Council, commenced a panel discussion exploring the current state of skills and human resources in the public works sector, focusing on whether the workforce is keeping pace with the rapid growth in infrastructure projects.

2024 FUTURES CHALLENGE Each year, IPWEA-QNT invites final-year university students studying engineering and related disciplines to participate in the IPWEA-QNT Futures Challenge. The Futures Challenge is part of IPWEA-QNT’s commitment to the development and promotion of our future leaders in public works engineering.

IPWEA-QNT Congratulates Jessica Tse from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) for winning the 2024 IPWEA-QNT Futures Challenge. Jessica impressed conference delegates with her insightful presentation on soil mechanics titled, Investigating the Effect of Microbial-induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) on the Hydromechanical Properties of Field Clay, Impressed judges.

Other Future Challenge participants included Callym Dunleavy, Griffith University graduate and Urban and Environmental Planner. Callym’s research topic was titled, ‘Transitioning towards Water-Sensitive Regions: Just an aspiration or an achievable vision?’.

Vili Siale, Traffic Engineering Liaison Officer and University of Southern Queensland graduate presentation was titled, Analysis of 2022 worst road fatalities in a decade in Tasmania.

IPWEA-QNT was pleased to see a continuation of the high-level presentations and topics delivered at the Future Challenge, as we encourage students to attend our Annual Conference to support their pathways through networking opportunities with industry leaders, experts and future colleagues.

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2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

STREAM SPEAKERS The day two afternoon was split into six streams featuring a broad range of speakers that covered topics on the practical, legal and emerging aspects of public works engineering.

Stream 1: Asset Management Streamlining Efficiency: Standardised Asset Systems for MultiClient Contracts, improving safety outcomes for the team - Claire Wells, Ventia; Chris Wignall, Asset Vision

Achieving collaborative practices through asset governance Erin Goetz, Ipswich City Council; Dr Meg Hooper, Carousel Consulting

LGFP Guidance Paper - Accounting for Infrastructure Revolutionising Damaged by asset management Significant Weather practices for small Events - Oliver to medium councils - Joel Devey & David Pring, Scenic Rim Regional Council Mitchell, Proterra Group; Nick Ehrlich, Wagner Corporation Stream 3: Community Projects AI and Robotics in mapping your roads - Leigh Carnall, Civiltech Solutions

The Learnings and Complexities of Cross-Border Projects – Mungindi Water Security - Michael Stream 2: Finance Shellshear, Proterra and Governance Group; Dylan Sherriff, Balonne Shire Council Enhancing Timely Engagement, Delivery of Civil Infrastructure Projects: consultation, community relations...

A Methodology The Shifting Modification requirements for Approach - Ali engaging community Shadman, Ipswich on infrastructure City Council 34

& Empowering Regional Engineers: The Cost-Saving Potential of AI in Public Works Navigating the Zachary FitzChance, novel design and Logan City Council implementation pathway of the Amity & Jim O’Dea, Point flow slide barrier Proterra Group - Ryan Dermek and Richard Sharp, Water Stream 5: Procurement and Technology Pty Ltd Risk Management Stream 4: Innovation How to extract more & Technology value from your procurements - Ren Remote Data Niemann and Tom Acquisition: A Grogan, Norton Rose Telehealth Analogy Fulbright for Infrastructure - James O’kane, Avoiding Contract Arrayen; Matthew Administration Arnold, Redfrost Nightmares: Tips for a better night’s sleep!

Keeping it Real: - Matt Bradbury and Using Artificial Tosca Goldberg, Intelligence to McCullough Deliver Practical Outcomes for Road Robertson Lawyers Managers - Justin Fischer, SHEPHERD Creating the Safest Intersection in the World - Jason Deller, Challenges in AI Amag and the Regional Asset Intelligence Group (RAIG) Nathaniel Tunney & Sue Monk, Articulous Communications

2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Stream 6: Public Works Sector Updates Managing Emerging Risks in the Queensland Urban Water Sector David Wiskar, Qld Water Directorate Designing and Installing Resilient and durable stormwater pipelines - it’s simple when you know how - Karen Thompson, Concrete Pipe Association of Australasia (CPAA) From Roads to the Reef: Improving Water Quality - Greg Oliver, Great Barrier Reef Foundation; Jeff Shellberg, South Cape York Catchments; Bill Johnson, Strategic Environmental and Engineering Consulting; Megan Forrest, Local Government Association of Queensland

EXCELLENCE AWARDS GALA DINNER & CEREMONY The IPWEA-QNT Excellence Awards Gala Dinner and Ceremony was attended by over 400 guests, showcasing the accomplishments of individuals and organisation’s throughout 2024.

Overseeing the evening’s entertainment, and the awards event, was master of ceremonies Richard Champion, former Brisbane Bears/Lions player and TV personality.

Special Guests included: • Councilor Carol Taylor – Toowoomba Regional Council • Councilor Adam Hain – City of Moreton Bay. • Ms Leah Kelly – Deputy Director-General (Infrastructure and Regional Strategy) - Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning • Ms Suzanne Burow – Chairperson - Board of Professional Engineers • Mr Jimmy Scott – General Manager Integration and CoordinationQueensland Reconstruction Authority • Mr Mark Piorkowski – Executive Director | QLD/NT- Australian Flexible Pavement Association

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2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

WINNERS

Project Awards •

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• •

•

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Asset Management - Washpool Creek Naturalisation – Stages 1&2 Coastal Engineering Noosa Council’s Noosa Spit Dog Beach Sand Renourishment Project Community Road Safety - Mount Lindesay Arterial Road (Beaudesert Road) and Illaweena Street intersection upgrade Environment & Sustainability - Utility scale battery linked to the Renewable Energy Generator at City of Moreton Bay’s Bunya landfill Innovation & Sustainability in Water - Landfill gas powered renewable energy behind the meter at Toowoomba’s Wetalla sewage treatment plant Project Innovation Pierce Street Active Street Projects Under $2 mil Bradenburg Road Seal Widening Projects $2 mil - $5 mil - Noosa Council’s Noosa Spit Dog Beach Sand Renourishment Project Projects $5 mil - $10 mil - Redbank Plains Pump Station Projects $10 mil plus Breakfast Creek Trunk Sewer Augmentation Project Road Safety Infrastructure - Talara Ride & Shine: Safe Routes to School

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Public Works Project of the Year - Landfill gas powered renewable energy behind the meter at Toowoomba’s Wetalla sewage treatment plant

Employer Awards • Employer of the Year (Private Sector) McMurtrie Consulting Engineers (MCE) • Employer of the Year (Public Sector) Toowoomba Regional Council

People Awards • Emerging Leader of the Year - Sean Robinson • Engineer of the Year John Tannock • Public Works Professional of the Year - Blaise Shann • Team Member of the Year - Warwick Taylor • Women in Engineering Angela Tait • IPWEA-QNT Presidents Award for Outstanding Contribution to Public Works - Mike Brady

2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

PROJECT OF THE YEAR LGI’s renewable energy project at Toowoomba’s Wetalla Wastewater Treatment Plant is the first in Queensland to convert methane extracted from an adjacent landfill into electricity to provide 24/7 power for a Wastewater Treatment Plant which also operates 24/7.

This project intersects the waste water, solid waste, carbon and energy industries as we transition towards net zero.

The transition to renewable energy for the Australian electricity grid poses many challenges and there is no silver bullet for that transition.

Before LGI’s power station was built

After LGI’s power station was built

LGI’s core business is carbon abatement and renewable power generation using landfill biogas as the fuel source.

The logical extension for LGI is to provide customers with renewable power “behind the meter”.

The 24/7 output of LGI’s 1MW biogas power generator supplies consistent, dispatchable (peak and off peak) renewable power to the adjacent Wetalla wastewater treatment plant which also operates 24/7 and is the Toowoomba Regional Council’s facility that regularly consumes the largest amount of electricity.

L-R: LGI’s CEO Jarryd Doran, Former Toowoomba Councillor Nancy Sommerfield and current Toowoomba Deputy Mayor Dr Rebecca Von Hoff

This project is currently saving Toowoomba Council and therefore the rate payers of that Council approximately $600,000 per annum and importantly was designed, installed and is operated by LGI at no capital cost nor any ongoing operational cost to Council.

Alongside the financial benefit, by utilising power behind the meter for its wastewater treatment plant, Council’s most demanding energy user is now mostly (90-100%) supplied with renewable power sourced from the landfill while still having access to grid power if required.

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2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

SUPPORT FOR THE EXCELLENCE AWARDS CAME FROM OUR VALUED SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS Excellence Awards & Gala Dinner Co-Host Sponsor • Northlane Consulting Engineers Excellence Awards Category Sponsors • COLAS Australia Group Pty Ltd • Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) • Fulton Hogan Industries - Qld • GenEng Solutions Pty Ltd • GHD • Northlane Consulting Engineers • Saferoads • Shepherd Services Pty Ltd • Stabilised Pavements of Australia Excellence Awards & Gala Dinner Support Sponsors • Atlan Stormwater • Australian Concrete Mats Pty Ltd • EJ Australia Pty Ltd • Global Synthetics Pty Ltd • Ingal Civil Products • Local Buy • LO-GO Appointments • McBerns Innovative Solutions • McCullough Robertson Lawyers • Proterra Group Pty Ltd • Reinforced Concrete Pipes Australia (QLD) Pty Ltd • Shepherd Services Pty Ltd • Stabilised Pavements of Australia • SuperSealing Pty Ltd • Wagners CFT Manufacturing Pty Ltd

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FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER Third and final day of the conference commenced with an address from the 2023 Engineer of the Year Award recipient Sean Rice, Director of Proterra Group and IPWEA-QNT President.

Mr Rice spoke about his journey throughout engineering, starting as an engineering graduate from the University of New South Wales in 1997 to starting his own business, Proterra Group, in 2008 and becoming the IPWEA-QNT President in 2023.

Keynote Speaker Dr Chadden Hunter took the stand next to deliver insight into his time producing documentaries for the BBC series Planet Earth 1 and 2, LIFE, Wild Arabia, Frozen Planet and Seven Worlds One Planet, winning over 20 Bafta and Emmy awards, working alongside Sir David Attenborough.

Mr Hunter’s visually stunning presentation recounted his time filming Planet Earth 1 and 2 and the improvements they could put in place between the two documentaries.

He explained that as time passed, protecting the animals they were filming became more important than the profit from developing the series.

2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

ASSET DESIGN AS CONSTRUCTED (ADAC) VERSION 6 LAUNCH Sunshine Coast Council’s Bob Jordan and Lion Systems’ Blake Slaven covered the updates and new features in ADAC Version 6.

The open-source data specification platform used by councils and utilities across Australia.

ADAC helps automate the transfer of civil infrastructure asset data from the field into council systems, ensuring accurate and consistent data for asset management, GIS and finance.

STREAM SPEAKERS The day three afternoon featured a further six stream speakers, covering topics including roads, water, disaster management and environment and sustainability.

Stream 7: Roads – Sponsored by the Department of Transport and Main Roads Optimisation of Road Safety Infrastructure Investment – A Network Safety Plan - Mr David Fulton, Bundaberg Regional Council and Ms Melanie Venter, NTRO AusRAP to help selected LGAs trial fit-for-purpose tools for risk-based road safety investment planning

- Keith Simmons, Austroads have Receded let the & Alan Rushworth, Austroads Roadworks Begin! - Mrs Brianna Barnett, Western Shooting for the Stars: Downs Regional Council; Unsealed Roads Service Mr Christopher Cleary, Levels - Mr Tom Sanders, Central Downs Civil; Mr SHEPHERD Scott Pomerenke, Brandon & Associates Stream 8: Disaster Management and Resilience Stream 9: Water – Sponsored by Redfrost Townsville’s water supply After the quake - rebuilding and sewerage demand rates an entire city water network - Darron Irwin, Townsville - Mark Habel, Plasson City Council Recovery and Resilience in Queensland - Andrew Abbott and Vina Varsani, Queensland Reconstruction Authority Western Downs 2021/22 Flood Damage Restoration Program: Flood Waters

Investigating alternative water supply options for two regional communities, with a novel climate change sensitivity - Joel Khouri, Engeny Australia and Neels Kloppers, Gladstone Regional Council

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2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Fraser Coast Water Grid Integrating Learnings for a Wider Queensland Proposal - Josh Lawrence, Stantec Stream 10: Roads – Sponsored by the Department of Transport and Main Roads Durack Civil: Gregors Creek Road Landslips Project for Somerset Regional Council - Lincoln Redgen, Durack Civil & Raad Jarjees, Somerset Regional Council Restoration of the Cape Tribulation - Bloomfield Road after TC Jasper; collaboration between Douglas Shire Council and TMR - Kalan Shuttlewood, Department of Transport and Main Roads

Stream 12: Environment and Sustainability Low carbon recycled sustainable asphalt - myth or reality? - Trevor Distin, COLAS Transitioning to Lower Temperature Asphalt (LTA) – Paving the way to Cooler Solutions - Jonathan Hoffman, COLAS, Mike Pickering, Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) Bundaberg’s Generational Shift in Urban Waterway Management - Our Learnings and Outcomes to Date - David Fulton, Bundaberg Regional Council THE GREAT DEBATE

Investigation and Development of a Contemporary Pavement Design Procedure for Rockhampton Regional Council - Grant Vaughan, Rockhampton Regional Council Stream 11: Stormwater Road runoff water quality.

We’re working hard but is it working? - Katie Fletcher, Arup Transforming Stormwater Renewal Strategies in the City of Greater Geelong Mark Lee, VAPAR Leveraging CFD to Improve Pedestrian Safety at Culverts - Kyle Thomson & Tuyet Pham, City of Gold Coast 40

This year’s topic was Rural communities produce better sportspeople (and engineers) than urban communities.

Delegates using the conference app voted in a 2-1 victory to the affirmative team of Karen Thompson, Executive Director, Concrete Pipes Association of Australasia Nathaniel Tunney, Project Manager, Articulous Pty Ltd Blue Gwydir, Manager Civil Operations, Rockhampton Regional Council.

They defeated the Negative Team Suzanne Burow, Chairperson, Board of Professional Engineers Queensland, Celine BurnsHind, Principal Consultant, Peak Services, and Mark Lamont.

The voting was: Round 1 Winners - Affirmative Round 2 Winners - Affirmative Round 3 Winners - Negative Overall Winners - Affirmative The IPWEA-QNT Great Debate was launched at the 2016 Annual Conference in Brisbane with the topic, ‘women make better engineers than men’. This inaugural debate was highly successful and has become a key part of the Annual Conference, bringing the event to a close on the third day.

CEO’S ADDRESS IPWEA-QNT CEO, Brett Wright took to the stand for the final presentation of the Conference, summarising how fantastic the event was and the year had been for IPWEA-QNT. Brett relayed the positive feedback from attendees on the Conference’s organisation and venue and guests were excitied to hear that in 2025 the Conference would again be returning to the Royal International Convention Centre.

2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

PRESIDENT’S CHARITY Each IPWEA-QNT President nominates a charity for us to support during their term. President Sean Rice has chosen The Pyjama Foundation.

The Pyjama Foundation was created to provide children in care with a world full of unlimited opportunities, to create positive relationships, and instill a love of learning. They provide mentors to children living in out of home care (OOHC) and extend the relationship to young adulthood, supporting them to build on skills that can make positive change to their life outcomes.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE PRINCIPAL PARTNERS

Thank you to all our values sponsors and exhibitors.

Without your support, we would not be able to continuously deliver the premier event in publics works in Australia. We look forward to seeing you at the 2025 IPWEA-QNT Annual Conference

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SPONSORS

EXHIBITORS

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SUMMARY - 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS IPWEA-QNT would like to thank everyone who supported the 2024 Annual Conference. These events wouldn’t be possible without the continued support from our members, partners, sponsors and industry associates.

We look forward to the next event enabling us another opportunity to bring together the community to inform, connect, represent and lead.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC WORKS

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

Sponsored by

PROJECT OF THE YEAR PROJECT OF THE YEAR

LAND FILL GAS POWERED RENEWABLE ENERGY BEHIND THE METER AT TOOWOOMBA’S WETALLA SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT LGI Limited LGI’s renewable energy project at Toowoomba’s Wetalla Wastewater Treatment Plant is the first in Queensland to convert methane extracted from an adjacent landfill into electricity to provide 24/7 power for a Wastewater Treatment Plant which also operates 24/7.

This project intersects the waste water, solid waste, carbon and energy industries as we transition towards net zero.

The transition to renewable energy for the Australian electricity grid poses many challenges and there is no silver bullet for that transition. LGI’s core business is carbon abatement and renewable power generation using landfill biogas as the fuel source.

The logical extension for LGI is to provide their customers with renewable power “behind the meter”. The 24/7 output of LGI’s 1MW biogas power generator supplies consistent, dispatchable (peak and off peak) renewable power to the adjacent Wetalla wastewater treatment plant which also operates 24/7 and is the Toowoomba Regional Council’s facility which regularly consumes the largest amount of electricity.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

IPWEA-QNT PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO PUBLIC WORKS WINNER PRESIDENT’S AWARD

MIKE BRADY General Manager Infrastructure Services, Toowoomba Regional Council Mike has over 35 years of engineering, management, design and construction experience in government and the private sector. Mike holds a Bachelor of Engineering, a Master of Local Government Management and a Graduate Diploma of Local Government Engineering from the University of Technology, Sydney.

Most of his career has been spent in local government in New South Wales and Queensland including senior roles with Queensland Main Roads and Brisbane City Council before joining Toowoomba Regional Council in August 2011. He currently leads the Infrastructure Services Group, responsible for delivering the group’s operational and capital programs.

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Mike is an active member of Engineers Australia, having served as the President of Engineers Australia (Queensland) in 2010 and on the Board of Professional Engineers Queensland from 2012 to 2016.

He is also an active member of the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (Queensland). Mike was awarded the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland’s “Engineer of the Year” in 2017.

Mike is currently the Chair of the IPWEA-QNT RPEQ Assessment Board and has sat on many working groups and steering committers for the Institute since joining in 1995.

ASSET MANAGEMENT

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

Sponsored by

WINNER management practice, Council has proactively delivered the Washpool Creek Naturalisation project.

The project has seen approximately 820 metres of concrete channels removed and the waterway corridor restored back to a natural state.

WASHPOOL CREEK NATURALISATION – STAGES 1 & 2 Bundaberg Regional Council Washpool Creek is a heavily urbanised catchment situated in the heart of the city of Bundaberg.

Like many waterways in the Bundaberg region, urbanisation since the mid-1900s has seen Washpool Creek’s tributaries straightened, and ‘upgraded’ from a natural creek to a concrete channel to maximise conveyance and developable land.

The outcome – a sick, overwhelmed watershed unable to cope with so much natural interference.

While being resilient and adaptable to future climate impacts, the project integrates stormwater technical requirements, habitat values, active transport connections, parks and nature play facilities, all within a natural blue-green ecological corridor.

Furthermore, the project delivers an asset which, unlike concrete, is expected to appreciate-in-value and not require renewal in the future, ultimately strengthening the financial sustainability of Council.

The Washpool Creek Naturalisation project has created an asset where people and nature can coexist, and to mutual benefit.

It is an exemplary project in how we can manage our waterways sustainably and deliver the rich opportunities of naturebased solutions for future generations.

In 2020, Council completed a condition assessment of the concrete channels along Washpool Creek which found that the channels in the lower reaches had reached end of life.

Historically, Council’s asset renewal practices would have seen these replaced on a likefor-like basis with new concrete channels.

To break out of this unsustainable asset 47

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

COASTAL ENGINEERING

Sponsored by

WINNER

NOOSA COUNCIL’S NOOSA SPIT DOG BEACH SAND RENOURISHMENT PROJECT Noosa Council Noosa Council’s Noosa Spit Dog Beach Sand Renourishment Project was a crucial coastal restoration initiative aimed at addressing severe erosion and protecting the Noosa Spit, a key part of the region’s coastal defences. The project’s primary goal was to restore the foreshore at Dog Beach, a popular spot for locals, and

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prevent a potential breakthrough that could compromise the integrity of the spit.

The project involved dredging and placing over 85,000m2 of sand from a designated area within the Noosa River onto the eroded foreshore. A major challenge was redirecting the river’s main flow, which had shifted towards the foreshore, back to the centre of the channel. This had to be done using only sand, without the use of hard infrastructure like rocks or geotextile bags, while also maintaining safe access for marine traffic.

To minimise environmental impacts, the works were carried out within a limited seasonal window to avoid disturbing nesting migratory birds. Despite these constraints, the project successfully restored the foreshore, realigned the river channel, and maintained a navigational pathway for vessels throughout construction.

The project was completed two months ahead of schedule and under budget, demonstrating Noosa Council’s dedication to sustainable coastal management and protecting valuable community spaces.

COMMUNITY ROAD SAFETY

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MOUNT LINDESAY ARTERIAL ROAD (BEAUDESERT ROAD) AND ILLAWEENA STREET INTERSECTION UPGRADE GHD Pty Ltd The Mount Lindesay Arterial Road (also known as Beaudesert Road) is a major north-south corridor in Brisbane’s road network, connecting the southern suburbs, Logan Motorway, and Mount Lindesay Highway to the CBD. The Beaudesert Road and Illaweena Street intersection sits at the junction of Calamvale, Drewvale and Parkinson. Previous planning studies had identified the intersection as a priority upgrade location due to significant congestion and safety concerns. Based on these studies, and extensive community consultation, the Queensland Government committed $30 million for this project as part of the post-Covid Queensland Economic Recovery Strategy: Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs. The objectives of the upgrade were to: • Improve safety for all road users through reduced traffic congestion at

the intersection Provide safer facilities for people walking and riding bikes to promote active transport Improve facilities for public transport users with new and upgraded bus stops at the intersection

The resultant innovative upgrade is Brisbane’s first “fully protected” intersection, which includes design features to separate bike riders from general traffic and pedestrians so all road users can safely share the intersection.

Designed and successfully constructed under strict budget and funding constraints, this project has delivered a safer and more predictable environment for all road users.

In collaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), GHD delivered the Concept Design, Business Case, Preliminary Design, Detailed Design and Construction Phase Services for this landmark project.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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ROAD SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE

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WINNER By engaging with communities, we learn where they feel unsafe, what they need to feel safe. This is the vital evidence base to support our projects. It makes for good, evidence based infrastructure and is also an efficient planning process that ensures money is being invested where it is most needed.

How do they know that they got it right? They made a game of it, calling it ”RideScore”.

TALARA RIDE & SHINE: SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL Sunshine Coast Council What happens when you combine effective community engagement, innovative infrastructure planning and the gamification of travel behaviour change at school? You get the hugely succesfull Talara Primary College Ride and Shine Project!

The Ride and Shine project demonstrates how combining these elements transformed a 145m safe route to school to a 1.6km safe route by improving 4 road crossings. This increased the catchment area from 12 to 226 households.

The new crossings give priority to vulnerable users, because almost all parents were ’somewhat concerned’ or ’very concerned’ when children are required to cross untreated side roads or mid-block crossings.

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RideScore is an incentive-based program aimed at increasing active travel to and from school. The digital platform utilises beacons that provide notifications to parents on the arrival and departure of students riding and scooting to and from school. Individual trips are recorded and rewarded at certain milestones. Game On!

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

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WINNER The power grid used for the National Electricity Market (NEM) is increasingly in need of stabilisation via Frequency Control Ancillary Services (FCAS) which is what LGI’s Bunya battery does via their Dynamic Asset management System (DACS) which integrates the battery with the power station, the landfill the local power grid and the NEM. This frequency stabilisation helps overcome one of the challenges as the NEM transitions from predominantly fossil fuel derived energy to renewables.

UTILITY SCALE BATTERY LINKED TO THE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATOR AT CITY OF MORETON BAY’S BUNYA LANDFILL LGI Limited Landfills are responsible for approximately 11 per cent of the world’s methane emissions. In 2024, LGI upgraded its existing biogas fuelled renewable electricity generator at Bunya to a renewable hybrid with a battery energy storage system (BESS) comprising a 1.1MW/2.6MWh Tesla Megapack. This means LGI can now generate and store or dispatch and distribute renewable energy within milliseconds from the Bunya Renewable Hybrid when and where it is needed and help stabilise the local electricity system. LGI can better serve increasing electricity market volatility which includes negative prices during the day and high to extreme pricing during periods of high demand on the electricity network.

This project intersects the solid waste, carbon and energy industries as we transition towards net zero.

Significantly, this project was designed, installed and is operated by LGI at no capital cost, nor ongoing operational cost to the City of Moreton Bay Council.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY IN WATER

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WINNER This project is currently saving Toowoomba Council and therefore the rate payers of that Council approximately $600,000 per annum and importantly was designed, installed and is operated by LGI at no capital cost nor any ongoing operational cost to Council.

LANDFILL GAS POWERED RENEWABLE ENERGY BEHIND THE METER AT TOOWOOMBA’S WETALLA SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT LGI Limited Toowoomba Regional Council sought to minimise its greenhouse gas emissions and naturally looked at its largest emissions source which was the Hermitage Road landfill as a starting point. Initially the gas field had to be quantified which LGI did via an 18 month proving period after the initial biogas extraction and flaring system was installed.

LGI’s Wetalla WasteWater Treatment Plant converts methane from an adjacent landfill into renewable electricity to provide 24/7 power for treatment plant operations.

The impressive results from this project were achieved at no cost to Toowoomba Regional Council.

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By utilising power behind the meter for its wastewater treatment plant, Council’s most demanding energy user is now mostly (90-100%) supplied with renewable power sourced from the landfill while still having access to grid power if required. This technology and know-how enables Council to better manage their power costs with a competitive known future price path for a more reliable and renewable energy power supply which in turn reduces cost and risk for Council.

PROJECT INNOVATION

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WINNER shift towards more active travel.

PIERCE STREET ACTIVE STREET Toowoomba Regional Council Queensland’s first Active Street has been constructed on Pierce Street, South Toowoomba. Pierce Street has been transformed into a low-speed (30 km/h) Active Street, transitioning into a new three-meter-wide shared path along the West Creek corridor, extending to the recently completed Alderley Street pedestrian bridge. This corridor is a critical link between the University of Southern Queensland Campus and the Toowoomba CBD.

Endorsed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), the Pierce Street project exemplifies the Cycle Street treatments now integrated into the Transport and Roads Use Management (TRUM) guidelines. These guidelines advocate for local councils to implement such low-cost, high-impact solutions for quiet neighbourhood streets, significantly contributing to the Principal Cycle Network Plan. This plan seeks to enhance the safety, connectivity and appeal of active transport routes, ultimately promoting increased cycling and walking within a unified network.

As Queensland’s first Active Street, Pierce Street not only sets a new benchmark for local infrastructure but also serves as a beacon of innovation for other councils across Queensland and eastern states.

Council hopes this project initiates similar initiatives, reinforcing the importance of safe, sustainable and vibrant urban spaces.

Drawing inspiration from successful international models and Western Australian precedents, this innovative design, often termed ”cycle streets” or ”neighbourhood greenways,” aligns perfectly with the Council’s Strategic Transport Strategy (STS) and Active Transport Policy. These frameworks champion pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environments, aiming to foster a cultural

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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PROJECTS UNDER $2MIL

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WINNER applicable to other similar rural road upgrades.

To achieve Council’s holistic objectives, it was determined the Lower Order Roads Design Guidelines, published by IPWEAQNT, could be extended to this upgrade, providing a practical risk-based approach was adopted. This project instigated an update to LORDG extending application to low speed, low volume roadways, within a risk-based approach.

P-H5978 BRANDENBURG ROAD SEAL WIDENING Sunshine Coast Council The project involved a road safety upgrade of a section of Brandenburg Road, Mooloolah Valley, linking Mooloolah Valley Township and Landsborough Maleny Road, Sunshine Coast Region, Queensland. The project’s intent was to improve safety while maintaining the current function of the road, discouraging an increase in vehicular traffic and/or operating speeds, while ensuring existing amenity of the corridor is retained for the local community.

Due to the potential undesirable consequences of upgrading this section of road to current standards, including significant costs, amenity impacts, significant native tree removal, and alteration of the intent of the road link operation, a holistic review of the design objectives and their potential risks was undertaken by Council, facilitating the development of a fit-for-purpose design philosophy, potentially 54

Application of this risk-based design philosophy provided a design speed to be supported by utilising the exiting speedreducing-constraints present, in addition to the inclusion of further traffic calming to maintain safe speeds throughout.

The result of taking this pragmatic, innovative approach, was a fit-for-purpose design, achievement of sustainable safety objectives, a reduction in ongoing lifecycle costs, reduced environmental impact, minimisation of land acquisitions, and retention of the existing amenity of the corridor.

PROJECTS $2MIL - $5MIL

Sponsored by

WINNER The project introduced Living Bags®, codeveloped with First Nations Reef Assist Partners, as a sustainable erosion control solution. By planting 97,000 native plants from 75 different species, the naturalised channel now provides habitat for wildlife, enhances aesthetic appeal and offers passive recreation opportunities for the community.

THE BUSHLAND BEACH CHANNEL NATURALISATION AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY PROJECT Townsville City Council The Bushland Beach Channel Naturalisation Project is a transformative initiative across Council engineering and sustainability teams aimed at addressing environmental degradation and enhancing community spaces. The project transformed a deteriorating open drain into a vibrant, naturalised waterway that filters stormwater, improves water quality and restores local biodiversity.

The project not only improves water quality in the Bohle River and the Great Barrier Reef lagoon but also serves as a replicable model for future urban waterway naturalisation projects across Townsville.

Recognised internationally by the International Erosion Control Association for its innovation, this project sets a new benchmark for how circular economy principles and collaborative efforts can create long-lasting environmental and community benefits.

Using regenerative circular economy principles, the project sourced organic waste, including weeds, dredge spoil, coffee waste and food waste, to create soil amendments that eliminated the need for synthetic fertilisers. This innovative approach, combined with biotechnologies to stimulate indigenous soil biology, helped stabilise soils, reduce erosion and improve plant survival in Townsville’s challenging climate.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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PROJECTS $5MIL - $10MIL

Sponsored by

WINNER As custodian of a drinking water service, it’s important we get the basics right and commit to making services sustainable, reliable and resilient.

The pump station will supply water to Redbank Plains, the Ripley Valley, the Swanbank industrial area and beverage giant Frucor Suntory’s new manufacturing facility in Redbank Plains, which also opened its doors in 2024.

REDBANK PLAINS PUMP STATION Downer WSP (DOWSP) The City of Ipswich is recognised as one of the fastest growing regions in south-east Queensland.

New developments are underway at pace and additional water infrastructure has been required to keep up. As suburbs such as Redbank Plains expand, the demand for water increases significantly, necessitating new infrastructure to handle the higher volumes required with minimal impact to local residents and businesses.

To help cater for current and future growth in the area, Urban Utilities, Downer and WSP (DOWSP) have delivered a $6-million pump station on a vacant Urban Utilities site, near Mount Juillerat Drive and School Road in Redbank Plains.

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A key feature of the project was the Downer and WSP (DOWSP) team’s approach to ensuring that the community was at the forefront of its planning, with bespoke engagement and consultation tools developed to support the culturally diverse local residents living directly adjacent to the construction.

The result? Urban Utilities, Downer and WSP have successfully delivered a once-ina-generation critical infrastructure project that will enhance water service reliability for residents, businesses and industry in the Ipswich area now and into the future.

PROJECTS $10MIL PLUS

Sponsored by

WINNER Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) has nominated PDAs in Bowen Hills and Herston which are forecast to have a combined demand projection of more than 58,000 equivalent persons (EP).

BREAKFAST CREEK TRUNK SEWER AUGMENTATION PROJECT Urban Utilities The Breakfast Creek sub-catchment has a history of poor performance, with reported customer overflows during wet weather. These are caused, partly as a result of flows backing up through the downstream trunk sewer network.

The reason the project was initiated was twofold, firstly the exisint Breakfast Creek Trunk Sewer has a sagged section where it passes under the Inner-City Bypass (ICB) and Airport Link on-ramp. The sagged section consists of an over 100 year-old unreinforced concrete pipe, which has experienced vertical settlement in the alignment. Previous attempts to reline the pipe in 1997 and 2004 using different lining techniques were unsuccessful.

To ensure appropriate resilience in the network and to cater for the expected growth, “The Breakfast Creek Trunk Augmentation Sewer” was delivered with the construction via trenchless methodology (MTBM) of a new 1km, 1.8m ID (OD2150) gravity sewer main that diverts the flows away from the damaged section of the existing sewer and increases the overall capacity of the network to accommodate Brisbane’s growing population. The Scope included design and construction of the new DN1800, 11m deep sewer pipeline, new DN6000, DN2400, DN1800 maintenance holes and connections to the existing sewer network.

Secondly, The Breakfast Creek subcatchment is currently forecast for 73% growth of which 84% is attributable to the two State Government Priority Development Areas (PDAs).

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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PUBLIC WORKS PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR WINNER Blaise’s accomplishments include:

BLAISE SHANN Toowoomba Regional Council Blaise is the epitome of a public works engineering professional, exhibiting Council’s values on a day-to-day basis. He exercises outstanding leadership skill and imparts expertise to his teams to create a high performing environment, which galvanises and motivates individuals to achieve their best.

Whilst maintaining high level oversight, Blaise continues to energetically participate in detailed problem-solving matters and do what’s required to maintain progress. He challenges the ‘norm’ by exercising his attention to detail and depth of knowledge to provide prompt direction and effective outcomes.

Blaise is well recognised within the professional community as a respectful, highly competent, enthusiastic and innovative, public works engineer and professional who always strives for the best in all that he does. This is demonstrated by his appointment to key projects and their ultimate success.

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Russel Street Streetscaping Project, Construction Manager – A major street refurbishment project with significant challenges including inner city traffic management, retail precinct interface, and old and unmapped utilities. Leveraging his strong stakeholder management, engineering, and project management expertise, Blaise led the transformation of a historic and tired area of Toowoomba’s CBD to what is now spectacularly vibrant and contemporary.

2022 Flood Recovery Program, Program Director – Blaise’s latest achievement was his leadership and delivery of the Toowoomba Regional Council 2022 Flood Recovery Program. Over the past two years Blaise worked tirelessly to lead Council’s Flood Recovery Team to deliver a program of works valued at almost $300M spread over a large geographic area utilising various consultants and contractors.

Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement, Principal Project Manager – Blaise has recently accepted a role with Water & Waste Services in Council assisting with the management of Council’s largest project in decades, the Cressbrook Dam safety improvement project. His appointment in this role is testament to the respect and confidence in Blaise’s abilities

by Council’s executive.

EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

Sponsored by

WINNER These agreements require users to pay for the benefits they receive, including financial contributions and obligations to maintain roads or provide funds to the Council.

Sean’s leadership in road infrastructure agreements and his role in implementing the Strong and Sustainable Resources Communities legislation have balanced industry needs with community welfare.

SEAN ROBINSON Isaac Regional Council Sean Robinson, a senior leader at Isaac Regional Council, is a standout nominee for the IPWEA-QNT 2024 Excellence Awards.

Over the next five years, Sean’s work at the Council will exceed $300 million, excluding planned capital expenditures.

His expertise in design management, agreement negotiation and road construction has been critical, with projects totaling $155 million. Sean ensures that the community is not burdened by increased rates or depreciation, leveraging agreements with industries, particularly mining.

He has influenced state policy as a member of the Local Government Association of Queensland Roads and Transport Advisory Group. His work in the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements group and the $50 million Isaac project after Tropical Cyclone Debbie demonstrate his impact.

As the lead technical representative for Queensland Beef Corridors and the Bowen Basin Regional Roads and Transport Group, Sean has shaped regional infrastructure planning. His commitment to safety is evident through his involvement in the Moranbah Road Safety Action Group.

Sean’s mentorship in the Council’s Graduate Engineering Program and his innovative project delivery make him a leader in public works, driving positive outcomes for the Isaac region.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR PRIVATE SECTOR

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WINNER MCE are committed to a multifaceted approach to professional development, evidenced in every layer of their business.

Their ISO9001 certified Quality System ensures at a basic level professional development is reviewed and promoted on a 6 monthly basis with all staff as part of their intrinsic staff mentoring review process.

MCMURTRIE CONSULTING ENGINEERS MCE exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding employer through its investment in employees, commitment to work-life balance and active community involvement.

McMurtrie Consulting Engineers was founded 22 years ago by Ian and Denise McMurtrie as a small family business. Over the years the business has grown and taken on new complexities, however the family values have remained at the heart of the business operations. Fundamental values such as inclusiveness, consideration, flexibility, loyalty and the celebration of differences make MCE feel different from their competitors. These have shaped their workplace culture and operational philosophy.

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MCE seek constant process improvement and recently identified that whilst CPD was occurring, a better method of casual mentoring could be achieved. They have begun a trial of a ”buddy system”, pairing senior staff with intermediate staff and intermediate staff with junior staff to not only check in with them personally but ensure they are achieving their professional development goals. They are already noted the voice this gives, particularly the junior staff in seeking training and development.

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR PUBLIC SECTOR

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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WINNER Being one of the largest employers in the region, TRC is committed to developing a highly skilled, flexible workforce.

Employees are provided with access to developmental programs to increase skills, broaden experience and enhance future career opportunities. A key focus as an employer has been to ensure a safe, supportive work environment and culture.

TOOWOOMBA REGIONAL COUNCIL

They work with teams and leaders to drive organisational development, employee engagement, leadership, career and professional development to strengthen belonging and inclusion in the workplace.

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is a proud employer of choice in the community. With a current staff of approximately 1600 employees, TRC prides itself on working closely with local communities to deliver a wide variety of services from arts and cultural programs to major community infrastructure.

The Toowoomba Region is a vibrant, inclusive and liveable region where respect for tradition, diversity and inclusion is embraced through rich traditions and bold ambitions. Growing from a strong agricultural base, the Region has a diverse and strong economy offering a range of business, investment and employment opportunities. TRC has supported the community, through responsible governance, to help foster this growth and ensure a sustainable and bright future for the region.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

WOMEN IN ENGINEERING

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WINNER Her early career highlights include the structural design of low and medium rise buildings, the structural design of large infrastructure structures for Traffic and Main Roads, Transport NSW, South East Queensland Water, Queensland Urban Utilities, Queensland Rail, Brisbane City Council, Sydney Water and South Australia Water. Angela is also one of the pioneers in developing the structural design of large scale solar farms across Australia. She designed and supported the development and construction of approximately 70% of the current solar farms across Australia.

ANGELA TAIT Gold Coast City Council Angela is a highly respected engineer who has over 27 years of experience in structural engineering.

Angela is a Registered Professional Engineer in Queensland with extensive experience as a structural engineer.

She has played a key role in designing, reviewing, and overseeing major projects throughout the Gold Coast. Angela has been pivotal in introducing innovative structural designs in the region and has contributed to signature projects for the City.

These projects include Wonder Reef, the Griffith Street Revitalisation Project, and the Lake Orr Boardwalk. Additionally, she has been instrumental in updating design standards and improving construction practices for shade sails across the city, ensuring alignment with Australian Standards and industry practices.

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In her current role, Angela oversees the team that is responsible for providing structural designs, specifications and construction advice to all departments and areas across the City. She also provides a combination of cost, quality, and constructability to meet the City’s growth requirements.

TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR

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WINNER Warwick is also a vibrant member of the WDRC Dalby Office and can often be seen sharing a joke or swapping footy tips with the rest of the office over smoko.

Personally and professionally, Warwick is an integral part of the WDRC Infrastructure Services team and his ongoing support for this team, and by extension the wider Western Downs community, is invaluable.

WARWICK TAYLOR Western Downs Regional Council Warwick Taylor is the Infrastructure Services Senior Business Officer for Western Downs Regional Council, providing budgetary planning and monitoring support for the entire Infrastructure Services division with an annual budget in excess of $50,000,000.

Warwick also provides support for all external funding and grants applications, as well as progress reports and claims.

Warwick does an exceptional job, often at short notice, and no challenge is too tough for him to take on.

Warwick’s selflessness and work ethic exemplifies public service, greatly enhancing the delivery of the infrastructure services team and the services they deliver to the community.

Warwick is the backbone of Infrastructure Services providing high level business support to the division. He is well regarded for his positivity, problem solving, attention to detail and honesty. His work ethic and accountability he takes for his role is demonstrated in the support he provides to the WDRC team, and is an example for all employees in the public works industry to achieve great outcomes for the community.

Warwick has been with WDRC since March 2012, during which time he has played a critical role in the delivery of major flood damage programs, grant applications to Bridge Renewal Program, Works For Queensland, Local roads and Community Infrastructure Program, Drought Communities Programme, and every operational and capital budget delivered during that time.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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FUTURES CHALLENGE WINNER Jessica is honoured to be the winner of IPWEA-QNT’s Futures Challenge, which recognises her dedication and hard work in the field. Her final-year thesis explores the impacts of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) on clay properties, showcasing the outcomes of her research.

JESSICA TSE Queensland University of Technology Investigating the Effect of Microbialinduced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) on the Hydromechanical Properties of Field Clay Jessica Tse is a final-year student at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), pursuing a double degree in Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Business (Economics).

Through her studies, Jessica has developed a strong passion for civil engineering, particularly in geotechnical, construction and structural design. She is eager to expand her experience and skills, aspiring to be a significant contributor to Australia’s civil engineering community.

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This achievement underscores her commitment to inspiring the next generation of females in STEM, demonstrating that with perseverance and passion, one can make meaningful contributions to the engineering world.

Jessica is enthusiastic about continuing her journey and making a positive impact on both her profession and society.

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

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WINNER He was recently recognized as part of the team winning the ICC Collaboration Award for their cooperative efforts in the road resurfacing program.

John’s skills in pavement design, project management and process documentation are well-honed. Furthermore, he actively shares his knowledge, presenting at numerous engineering conferences, including IPWEA-QNT. His project management skills are well exemplified in the award-winning One Mile Bridge Project.

JOHN TANNOCK Ipswich CIty Council John Tannock has demonstrated proactive leadership, driving significant changes within many councils. His extensive leadership roles in local government and as President of the SW group of IPWEA- QNT underscore his capabilities. Although John’s current role is technical, his previous positions involved significant community engagement.

Most recently, he introduced the ICC Pavement Design Supplement at Ipswich City Council and pioneered the use of geotextiles for soft subgrades. In 2020, he established a specialist pavement team at ICC, enhancing in-house expertise and addressing high-risk resurfacing projects to minimize failures. John values cooperation within council, initiating actions to disseminate pavement design knowledge and educate construction staff.

John has always subscribed to the philosophy that it was in the interests of an organisation to push the decisionmaking capability as far down the line of command as possible. An example of this relates to the undertaking of pavement failure repairs. Traditionally repair teams have either engaged in ‘open cut mining’ processes to remove soft material, or have called the pavement engineer in to advise on the required depth of excavation.

At Esk Shire Council, John provided the failure repair team with their own dynamic cone penetrometer and a set of graphs he developed relating penetration per blow of the DCP with the depth below the surface. The repair team simply plotted the penetrations on the graph to give them the necessary excavation depth – thus avoiding unnecessary excavation and delays waiting for expert advice.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS EXCELLENCE AWARDS & GALA DINNER CO-HOST SPONSOR

EXCELLENCE AWARDS CATEGORY SPONSORS

EXCELLENCE AWARDS & GALA DINNER SUPPORT SPONSORS

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS Celebrating Public Works

CO-HOST SPONSOR

2025 EXCELLENCE AWARDS ENTRIES NOW OPEN! CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC WORKS Have you completed a project in the past 12 months you want to share with the public works community?

Do you want to recognise people within the sector whose hard work and dedication make a valuable contribution to the sector?

The IPWEA-QNT Excellence Awards and Gala Dinner recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organisations to the Public Works and Engineering sector.

These awards provide the opportunity to showcase innovation and achievements in public works projects and the individuals involved.

There are a range of categories to enter into to showcasing the diversity of work across the sector.

People Awards Engineer of the Year Women in Engineering Public Works Professional of the Year Emerging Leader of the Year Team Member of the Year Employer Awards Employer of the Year (Private Sector) Employer of the Year (Public Sector)

Project Awards Asset Management Coastal Engineering Project Innovation Innovation and Sustainability in Water Environment and Sustainability Community Road Safety Road Safety Infrastructure Projects under $2 million Projects $2 million to $5 million Projects $5 million to $10 million Projects $10 million plus

For more information head to the Excellence Awards Website 67

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025

PEOPLE AWARDS The people awards showcase the dedication of people who are crucial to the success of sector: Engineer of the Year The Engineer of the Year award is granted to individuals who represent outstanding examples of innovation and resourcefulness within the engineering profession. The award looks to achievements in engineering and leadership and honours a person whose contribution to their profession stands as an example for all to measure themselves against.

Women in Engineering This award recognises the outstanding contribution women are making to the public works sector and the engineering community. The women in engineering award honours a person each year who has shown the highest level of expertise and dedication through a commitment to providing engineering solutions that support public works projects.

Team Members of the Year This award recognises a person behind the scenes who has made an outstanding contribution to their teams success. If you have a colleague or employee who you would like to receive public acclaim for their excellence, nominate them for this award.

Entries are Now Open!

Important Dates & Deadlines Entries opened: Tuesday, 3 June 2025 Entries close: Monday, 14 July 2025 Please note the entry deadline date is final and there will be no extensions provided. The system will automatically prevent entry submission after the deadline

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR ENTERING Entering the awards might seem like a daunting process, but it’s easy if you follow these top three tips and trips.

1. A detailed submission We recommend you download a Public Works Professional of the Year blank entry form from the website The Public Works Professional of and read through the entry criteria, the Year recognises an individual making notes in preparation for a who has demonstrated outstanding more detailed submission. professionalism, commitment and passion for the industry. The Public When answering the questions, write Works Professional of the Year also to the judging criteria and include any displays a commitment to their own features that may be unique to the career development, shown by the project and specific to the category. individual’s growth and advancement.

For the people awards provide Emerging Leader of the Year details of how the entrant meets the This award recognises an individual specific elements identified in the who demonstrates a passion for the questions. Give examples of work industry. An Emerging Leader that outcomes. shows both promise and potential in the industry and recognises great The submission process is easy to work being achieved early in their follow with a few little hints provided career. along the way.

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2. Photos and Supporting Documents It is a requirement that specific photographs be submitted as a part of your IPWEA-QNT Awards entry.

Upon receipt of the entry, should these requirements not be met, the entry will be considered incomplete and cannot be processed.

IPWEA-QNT cannot reproduce a copyrighted photograph without authorisation from the photographer.

Supporting Documents A number of categories requires you to attach supporting documents.

Providing these documents supports the information you provide against The judges use photographs in their the criteria questions. Supporting deliberations and, if your entry wins an documents go a long way to assist award, we will use the photographs in the judging process and strengthen the awards presentation, to promote the chances of your entry winning. the awards to the media, and across a range of publications and other 3. Before you hit “Submit” promotional channels.

Take the time to carefully check each section of the nomination form.

Please check there are no obscure Every question must be completed objects in the pictures. Try to include before you submit. Once you submit photos that are free of a cluttered the nomination, changes can only be background and compliments your made by contacting IPWEA-QNT. nomination. The simpler the shot, the bigger the impact.

The deadline to make any changes will be before judging commences.

Photos must be uploaded individually Once judging commences no in jpg, jpeg or png format (no PDFs). changes can be made. You can save your nomination at any time during Please ensure they are high-resolution the entry process and come back and a maximum file size of 100 (MB). to it to update the details and any stage of the entry process.

Photographers Authorisation – Professional Shots So, what are you waiting for – Get Please ensure you have the your entries in and Good Luck! photographer’s authorisation to use any photos taken by Tickets on Sale Now! professional photographers. You will need to check the Photography Tickets are limited and it is a Authorisation box as part of your requirement that a representative entry. This indicates that permission be at the Gala Dinner to accept the has been granted for IPWEA-QNT award. Get in early to secure your to use the professional photographs booking at the sectors social event as part of our awards program and of the year. associated marketing activities, including publishing photos in Discounts on offer for group magazines, on social media, in bookings. audio-visual presentations and other outlets.

Tickets to the Gala Dinner close on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025

EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025

KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

KNOWLEDGE CENTRE MOST VIEWED ARTICLES 2025 January - May Our globally recognised Knowledge Centre is an essential resource for anyone involved in public works in Queensland. Join IPWEA-QNT to access member-only content including all branch conference proceedings.

Contact Membership & Communications Officer, James Breene should you have any queries.

James Breene E: james.breene@ipweaq.com P: +61 7 3632 6890 January 2025 Item/Handle

Number of Views

QUDM (IPWEAQ) (1/4983)

56

Standard Drawings RSD: Roads (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8176)

46

Standard Drawings DSD: Drainage & Water Quality (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8184)

32

NACTO Urban Street Design Guide (National Association of City Transportation Officials) (1/3325)

30

Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines: Geometric Road Design (Cardno Rockhampton) (1/2976)

30

Standard Drawings HSD: Homeowner (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8180)

28

Bridge Inspections Level 1 and 2 (PD) (1/3901)

28

ADAC-15 Years On. So What Have We Learnt? (Bartholomew, Geoff) (1/2466)

26

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 Duty of Care Guidelines (Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships) (1/6184)

26

Standard Drawings (publications): Roads Set (IPWEAQ) (1/2931)

24

February 2025 Item/Handle

Number of Views

Standard Drawings RSD: Roads (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8176)

90

QUDM (IPWEAQ) (1/4983)

62

Standard Drawings DSD: Drainage & Water Quality (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8184)

56

Lower Order Roads Design Guidelines (LORDG) (IPWEAQ) (1/4985)

40

NACTO Urban Street Design Guide (National Association of City Transportation Officials) (1/3325)

34

NATSPEC BIM Object/Element Matrix (NATSPEC) (1/2378)

32

Benefits of Modified "C" grading in unbound and stabilised pavements by Lex Vanderstaay (Vanderstaay, Lex) (1/4939)

28

Standard Drawings (publications): Drainage Set (IPWEAQ) (1/2933)

28

Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines: Geometric Road Design (Cardno Rockhampton) (1/2976)

28

Complete Streets: Guidelines for Urban Street Design (IPWEAQ) (1/2946)

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KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

Item/Handle

Number of Views

Use of Waste Recycled Glass in Concrete as a Partial Cement and Fine Aggregate Replacement by Joshua Flanders (Flanders, Joshua) (1/3998)

144

Standard Drawings DSD: Drainage & Water Quality (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8184)

44

QUDM (IPWEAQ) (1/4983)

40

Standard Drawings RSD: Roads (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8176)

34

Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines: Geometric Road Design (Cardno Rockhampton) (1/2976)

22

A Backbone of Well-Defined Asset Information Requirements (Including Classification and Assessment Guidelines) Enabling AI – Computer Vision and Digital Engineering (Lee, Dallas) (1/7245)

20

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 Duty of Care Guidelines (Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships) (1/6184)

20

April 2025 Item/Handle

Number of Views

QUDM (IPWEAQ) (1/4983)

58

Standard Drawings RSD: Roads (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8176)

52

Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Murwillimbah to Crabbes Creek (Schimke, David et al) (1/8048)

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From Potter's Field: The Rise of the New Blackwater Aquatic Centre (Vertigan, Carol) (1/3183)

46

Toowoomba Goods Shed Restoration (Delany, Nick) (1/7900)

38

Supplying over 5000 people with water when the dam runs dry - the Stanthorpe water supply story (McKenzie, Seren) (1/6338)

38

Captain Cook Bridge Refurbishment Works (Le Good, Nicholas) (1/7696)

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Member Profile - Tia Golding (Golding, Tia) (1/7650)

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From Potter's Field: The Rise of the New Blackwater Aquatic Centre (Vertigan, Carol) (1/3341)

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Lowood Swimming Pool Condition Assessment and Upgrade Strategies Sheila Olandria (Olandria, Sheila) (1/5965)

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May 2025 Item/Handle

Number of Views

QUDM (IPWEAQ) (1/4983)

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Standard Drawings DSD: Drainage & Water Quality (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8184)

66

Standard Drawings RSD: Roads (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8176)

62

Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines: Geometric Road Design (Cardno Rockhampton) (1/2976)

50

Complete Streets: Guidelines for Urban Street Design (IPWEAQ) (1/2946)

46

Standard Drawings FSD: Fences, Barriers & Public Furniture (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8182)

46

Queensland Urban Drainage Manual (QUDM) and QUDM Background Notes (IPWEAQ) (1/7093)

40

Standard Drawings PCDS Active Transport (IPWEA-QNT) (1/8290)

28

ADAC_V5.01 Data Dictionary (ADAC Consortium) (1/7736)

26

Bridge Inspections Level 1 and 2 (PD) (1/3901)

26

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KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

March 2025

EVENTS REPORT

EVENTS REPORT

SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND & SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND BRANCH CONFERENCE The 2025 SEQ/SWQ Branch Conference, held on 25– 26 March at The Empire Theatre, Toowoomba, showcased the sector’s latest industry insights, technical know-how and provided a platform for our members and supporters across the regions to connect with leading suppliers.

Day one of the conference included the engaging and Interactive Roads Forum, featuring leading public works professionals on the latest developments in road infrastructure, sponsored

by SHEPHERD. The session included an interactive Panel Discussion, where our expert presenters discussed key challenges and best-practice solutions for managing road infrastructure in today’s complex operating environment.

Alongside the Roads Forum, attendees attended an offsite Tech Tour at Wagners CFT CFT Factory, Wellcamp Airport and Queensland Regional Accommodation Centre.

The behind the scenes experience provided insight on how Wagners CFT manufacture their fibre

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reinforced polymer (FRP) for civil infrastructure throughout Australia and overseas.

The first day of the conference concluded with a Meets & Eats welcome function where attendees

could unwind, mingle with other members and industry connections.

Day two commenced with an opening address from Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor, Geoff McDonald and SWQ Branch President Jason Dallinger.

EVENTS REPORT

Day two sessions included: EVENTS REPORT

The 2022 Flood Recovery Program Charlie Dill, Toowoomba Regional Council Lines, Signs, Traffic Lights and High-Definition Maps – Government’s role in enabling the deployment of connected and automated vehicles Amit Trivedi, Department of Transport And Main Roads Beaudesert Enterprise Precinct Stage 2 Richard Hancock, Redfrost Pty Ltd Flood resilience on a budget: pushing back for better roads and better value David Bell, Proterra Group Pty Ltd Gowrie Creek Trunk Sewer Project Stephen Petrie, Toowoomba Regional Council Building Stronger Teams through Collaborative Agreements for Engineering and Public Works Teams Tamara Allen-Canny, Wagtail Red Pty Ltd Engineers and Accountants; Finding Common Ground to Create Community Outcomes Justin Fischer, Shepherd Services Next Generation Traffic Signal Controllers - City of Moreton Bay Joshua Ellis, City of Moreton Bay

Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project: Alliance Performance Manager Lessons Learned Courtney Shadbolt, Toowoomba Regional Council Infrastructure Asset Management: A MultiTiered Approach to Condition Assessment Joel Devey, Proterra Group Collaboration + Time Binding + Decision Making = Efficiency David Foster, CPM Advisory & Project Management and Raees Rasool, Ipswich City Council

Amit Trivedi from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) was presented with the Best Paper Award, following his insightful presentation.

Amit’s paper, “Lines, Signs, Traffic Lights and High-Definition Maps – Government’s Role in Enabling the Deployment of Connected and Automated Vehicles”, explored the role of both physical and digital infrastructure in preparing Queensland roads for the future of transport.

A special thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners, exhibitors and attendees - your support and contribution made this event a success.

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EVENTS REPORT

EVENTS REPORT

OPTIMISE MEMBERSHIP MEETUPS Run from March to May, IPWEA-QNT’s Optimise Membership Meetups are an opportunity for those in the regions to join us for an evening of industry insights, membership updates and community networking.

IPWEA-QNT Membership & Communications Officer, James Breene visited Townsville, Rockhampton and Darwin throughout March, connecting with members and guests who came along to contribute to the growth of the public works communities in these regions.

James provided an update on the benefits of membership, our new training and technical products, and services available, as well as the discounts available through membership on events and training programs offered this year.

North Queensland Optimise, 12 March

Central Queensland Optimise, 13 March

Jeremy Bishop, Communications and Engagement Manager for the Board of Professional Engineers Queensland (BPEQ) attended the meetup in Central Qeensland and presented on the Professional Engineers Act (PE Act) and the Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) system reminding engineers of their obligations under Queensland law.

Northern Territory Optimise, 19 March 74

Continuing in May, James travelled to Toowoomba for the SWQ Optimise, where attendees gathered to listen to Jon Andison, Principal Program Delivery Civil Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project Delivery at Toowoomba Regional Council.

Jon’s presentation provided insight on the delivery of the Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project (CDSIP), a $266.1 million State-legislated project to improve dam safety for downstream communities during major flood events.

The SEQ Optimise, Hosted

by GHD at their Brisbane Office, saw a large turnout from the SEQ community who gathered to hear from Brad Wood, Growth Leader - Major Games and Events GHD and Teresa Montgomery, BPEQ Events and Customer Insights Coordinator.

Brad’s engaging presentation on what the 2032 Olympics will mean for public works engineers in Queensland, provided attendees insights on designing infrastructure for Major Games and Events and other critical Olympic infrastructure with a view to producing the holistic legacy outcomes required to make the 2032 Games a success.

Sponsored by BPEQ, this event was attended by over 20 students from the University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and Griffith University, who gathered for insight into the pathways offered by IPWEA-QNT and the support a free membership can provide.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our 2025 Optimise Membership Meetups. We hope the evenings of connection and conversation, bringing together local members, students and public works professionals, were insightful and for those who could not make it we look forward to seeing you when we return next year.

South West Queensland Optimise, 7 May

South East Queensland Optimise, 8 May

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EVENTS REPORT

EVENTS REPORT

EVENTS REPORT

EVENTS REPORT

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND & NORTH QUEENSLAND BRANCH CONFERENCE The 2025 CQ/NQ Branch Conference, held on 27–28 May at Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC), showcased the sector’s latest industry insights, technical knowhow and provided a platform for our members and supporters across the regions to connect with leading suppliers.

Day one of the conference included the engaging and Interactive Roads Forum.

Sponsored by SHEPHERD, this Roads Forum’s interactive Panel Discussion, discussed key challenges and best-practice solutions for managing road infrastructure in the CQ/NQ region.

Alongside the Roads Forum, attendees attended an offsite Tech Tour at Northern Beaches Community Hub (NBCH), Hosted by Mackay Regional Council. The NBCH is a large multi-staged project that will ultimately provide a community facility for all of Mackay’s residents, visitors and businesses and is situated within the Northern Beaches area in Rural View. With Stage 1A nearing completion this will provide the community with a multi-purpose covered sports court, amenities, 76

kitchenette, nature play area, picnic facilities, carparking, footpath linkages to adjoining network, landscaping, new road construction and significant drainage infrastructure.

The first day of the conference concluded with a Meets & Eats welcome function where attendees could unwind, mingle with other members and industry connections.

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EVENTS REPORT

Day two commenced with an opening address from Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson and CEO of Co Host, RRETS Group and NQ Branch President, Hari Bopuddi.

Day two sessions included: Barren Creek Timber Bridge Replacement Project - Martin Joseph and Peter Bratt, Mackay Regional Council Infrastructure Agreements - Sarah Hausler, McCullough Robertson Lawyers Karumba Community Seawall Resilience Project - Michael Wanrooy, Carpentaria Shire Council Practical TTM options for local government – safer, more productive and cheaper - Dr Dan Sullivan, Solutions in Transport Jolimont Creek Fishway - Muxith Habib and Martin Joseph, Mackay Regional Council Recovery & Resilience in Queensland - Andrew Abbott, Queensland Reconstruction Authority Noah Range Major Slip Site in Cape Tribulation Gabriel Nucifora, Douglas Shire Council and Claudia Brassard, Stantec Australia

The Great Scour: Midge Point’s Journey To Reliable Drinking Water - Andrew Walz & Andrea Thayer, Mackay Regional Council

Michael is responsible for all roads, buildings, aerodromes, marine, parks and gardens, water, waste and sewerage infrastructure throughout the Shire. He Does the colour treatment has spent over 20 years in of raised safety platforms the region having worked influence driver behaviour? in remote towns such - Todd Richards, Tipec as Bedourie, Birdsville, Barcaldine, Richmond and Understanding Cracks In Normanton.

Concrete Pipes - Sam Kane, Holcim Humes A special thank you to our speakers, sponsors, Michael Wanrooy, Director partners, exhibitors and of Engineering for attendees - your support Carpentaria Shire Council and contribution made this was presented with the event a success.

Best Paper Award, following his presentation on the Karumba Community Seawall Resilience Project.

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FEATURE ARTICLES

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WHAT IS MEASURED, MATTERS: THE ROLE OF DATA SCIENCE AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ROADWAY ASSET MANAGEMENT

Leigh Carnall, Senior Construction Consultant, Civiltech Solutions Asset management is what we are about. What we do directly impacts the efficiency and safety of how we transport goods, commodities, data and people. Effective asset management ensures that roadways and critical infrastructure are maintained and improved upon in line with a community’s expectations, thus enhancing public safety and transportation efficiency. Traditionally, most roadway condition assessments have been labour-intensive and subject to human induced variances.

However, the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies is transforming this landscape, creating vast quantities of data points about 78

our roadways, quickly overloading traditional roadway asset tools we have at our disposal.

The integration of AI models with data science techniques promises to enhance asset management processes, leading to more accurate roadway condition assessments, timely maintenance decisions, safer roads and ultimately, better financial sustainability of community infrastructure.

Data science involves extracting knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data, while AI refers to machines designed to mimic human

intelligence. In public works, these technologies will become indispensable due to their ability to process vast amounts of data efficiently. With increasing infrastructure demands (do more with less), the need for sophisticated data handling mechanisms has never been greater.

For instance, roadway assessments generate immense datasets, including images, spatial and lidar data. A network roadway assessment project using the Cyvl sensor easily produces terabytes of data.

Handling such volumes manually is impractical, making AI and data science crucial for decoding and

understaning this data, turning it into usable information. Extracting pavement defects and roadway assets along with attribute information such as condition and dimensionality, similar to what the Cyvl platform produces, enables a rich data source to extract insights and accurate summaries dashboards - a virtual data gold mine for future analysis.

Case Study: Identifying Signs Civiltech Solutions has been collaborating closely with Charles Darwin University in the fields of data science, road pavements, software and surveying streams in the use of the modern data to inform engineering analysis.

In a groundbreaking project, Charles Darwin University Data Science postgraduate students developed an AI model designed to detect and classify road signs accurately under various conditions. The models utilised advanced computer vision techniques and the YOLO (You Only Look Once) AI model version eight to train the model to recognise road signs.

The practical benefits of this AI-powered solution include its potential to optimise sign placement and improve road safety.

Throughout the semester, the students processed 43 videos, extracting 60,000 images and refining them to create a robust dataset. By employing data augmentation techniques, they expanded the dataset to 8,000 images, which

allowed the AI model to handle real-world variations effectively.

In the course of one semester, the students developed a model for real-time object detection (in this case a database of signs), which offers substantial benefits for roadway asset managers.

The integration of data science and roadway engineering will lead to more accurate asset identification, location and condition assessment.

The real-world practical possibilities in the very near future result in the autonomous identification of damaged or missing signs in real time.

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Perspectives on AI and Data Science in Asset Management Stakeholders in asset management, including the engineering team, financial team and elected members, stand to gain significantly when incorporating Data Science strategies and AI integration into big data sets.

Engineering Team benefit with an improved focus on extracting specific insights.

The ability to ask natural language questions of the data, with the returned response bringing up pictures, maps and analysis, will be a game changer for how we can look at a network wide analysis, but still draw specifics from the data.

Financial Team has at their disposal accurate and reliable information that valuations budget costings and timelines are developed from. The improved data accuracy lends itself to the use of AI to optimise the dollars spent based on predictive analytics, role playing various funding strategies to understand effectiveness and reliability of infrastructure.

Elected Officials gain tools for better reporting to community the dollars of works performed against effectiveness.

With improved data also comes improved story telling of the state of assets against funding needs and 80

community expectations.

However, challenges such as data privacy concerns and over-reliance on technology require attention. Ensuring data security and creating robust fallback systems can address these concerns, facilitating smoother adoption of AI in public infrastructure.

A mindfulness that technology does not inadvertently lead to a loss of skills in the field of asset management that AI is used as a tool to improve the effectiveness of Asset Management.

Integrating data science and AI in asset management holds promise for doing public works better, particularly in roadway condition assessment. The Charles Darwin University students demonstrated how quickly these technologies in the right skilled hands can develop real world outcomes. By embracing these advancements, we can achieve more efficient and effective management of infrastructure assets.

The future of AI in public infrastructure is bright, with continuous innovations promising to deliver smarter, safer and more resilient roadways.

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EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION

THE BUSHLAND BEACH CHANNEL NATURALISATION AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY PROJECT

Greg Bruce OAM, Chief Sustainability Officer, Townsville City Council The Bushland Beach Channel Naturalisation Project stands out as an exemplary project demonstrating technical excellence and innovation in urban water management, ecological restoration, and the integration of circular economy principles. The project not only transformed an outdated drain into a self-sustaining waterway but also set a new benchmark for how cities can address water quality and environmental challenges through cutting-edge design and collaboration.

Technical Excellence The project employed advanced stormwater management techniques and ecological engineering to address the complex challenges posed by Townsville’s climate and 82

soil conditions. The site was characterised by dispersive, saline, and groundwater-intrusive soils, combined with the city’s dry tropical climate, which involves extended dry periods followed by intense and erosive rainfall.

These challenges required a carefully designed system that could manage both stormwater quality and quantity while improving local biodiversity.

The use of rigorous stormwater modelling allowed the team to design a natural waterway that not only filters and slows stormwater but also creates a healthier aquatic ecosystem. The channel’s design incorporates a series of naturalised features, including ponds and a meandering rocky creek bed, which act as natural filtration systems. These features reduce the amount of sediment, nutrients, and pollutants entering the Bohle River and, ultimately, the Great Barrier Reef lagoon, contributing to improved water quality in sensitive downstream ecosystems.

Regenerative Ecological Fitness & Circular Economy One of the project’s most innovative aspects was the introduction of regenerative ecological fitness, a concept that extends beyond typical ecological restoration.

This approach focuses on restoring ecosystems in a way that also nurtures the human spirit and community resilience. By integrating the wisdom of First Nations people, the project emphasised the interconnectedness of ecological, social, and cultural dimensions. The use of local organic resources, such as weeds, dredge spoil, coffee waste, and food waste, to create soil amendments exemplified this holistic approach. These soil amendments restored the health of the land while fostering a sustainable circular economy, ensuring that waste materials were repurposed rather than discarded.

The project completely eliminated the use of synthetic fertilisers, opting instead to use biotechnologies to stimulate indigenous soil biology.

Living Bags® and Erosion Control Another significant innovation introduced in this project was the use of Living Bags®, which were co-developed with First Nations Reef Assist Partners as part of the Reef Assist Program. These hessian bags, filled with materials sourced from circular economy products, were strategically placed in the landscape to promote erosion control and stabilise the soil.

The Living Bags® approach has since been recognised by the International Erosion Control Association (IECA) for its leadership in sediment and erosion control practices.

reduced costs related to the transportation and disposal of waste, while also minimising the need for expensive fertilisers and erosion control products.

This innovative use of resources led to financial savings for the Council and reduced the project’s environmental footprint.

Learnings for Future Projects The project generated important learnings that can be applied to future urban water management and ecological restoration initiatives. The success

of the regenerative ecological fitness approach, combined with circular economy principles, has demonstrated that largescale urban naturalisation projects can be both environmentally and economically sustainable.

The use of biotechnologies and organic soil amendments has proven effective in overcoming challenging soil conditions, while the Living Bags® concept offers a replicable model for erosion control that can be applied in similar projects.

Contract Management & Collaborative Learning The innovative contract management approach employed in the project also contributed to its success. The team worked closely with First Nations Reef Assist Partners and local contractors to implement the project.

This collaboration helped build capacity among local businesses and provided opportunities for knowledge sharing, which improved the overall delivery of the project.

Cost savings were achieved through the efficient use of local resources and the reduction of synthetic inputs. By using city-wide organic waste for soil amendments, the project 83

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FLOOD RESILIENCE ON A BUDGET – PUSHING BACK FOR BETTER ROADS AND BETTER VALUE

Clare Ferguson, Civil Engineer, Proterra Group

Guidelines exist for a reason, but what if they’re meant to be just that – a guide?

Queensland has experienced over 100 individual flooding events since 2010. Climate science indicates a continued trend of more frequent and extreme flooding events, coupled with longterm drought conditions, which will likely place increasing strain on the state’s road infrastructure.

The Australian Business Roundtable has projected the annual cost of natural disasters in Queensland will reach $18B by 2050, with 65% of these costs attributed to flooding.

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Queensland is fortunate to have the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA), a state agency dedicated to managing and coordinating the recovery of disaster-affected communities. However, the primary funding mechanism for disasterrelated infrastructure damage requires assets to be restored to their predisaster condition, with only 3% of disaster funding allocated to mitigation efforts. The remaining 97% is spent on post-disaster recovery, perpetuating a reactive rather than proactive approach to infrastructure resilience.

The 3% of funding allocated to mitigation is channelled through the Betterment and Resilience programs, allowing local governments and state agencies to rebuild essential public assets to a more resilient standard. The Betterment program has demonstrated significant success. As of July 2023, 423 Betterment projects have been impacted by subsequent natural disasters, with a total of 1,173 impacts recorded across 44 events.

Notably, 79% of these sites sustained no or only minor superficial damage, preventing approximately $397 million in restoration costs.

Despite these successes, there are challenges associated with Betterment funding. The program relies on surplus disaster recovery funds, meaning there is no guarantee of available funding in any given year.

Additionally, the application process is complex and time-consuming.

What if there was a way we could build resilient roads more easily?

Rather than relying solely on Betterment funding, there is an opportunity to incorporate resilience into standard disaster recovery efforts. QRA’s funding guidelines stipulate that essential public assets must be demonstrably damaged by an eligible disaster and restored to their pre-disaster function.

This requirement often results in a fragmented, patchwork approach to pavement repair, where repaired sections are nonhomogeneous, leading to increased weak points and long-term vulnerability.

QRA is, however, open to alternatives where value-for-money can be demonstrated.

To illustrate the potential for a value-for-money approach within existing funding constraints, this paper examines two case studies from the Goondiwindi region: Riverton Road and Callandoon Road. These projects successfully secured QRA funding while delivering significantly improved long-term outcomes at a lower cost than the traditional patchwork repair approach.

The first case study is Riverton Road, located east of Texas and running parallel to the Dumaresq River, which sustained

significant damage during the March 2021 floods.

Damage was recorded over a 3.7 km section, covering approximately 22,200 m2, with more than 57% of the surface area affected.

The conventional approach would have involved piecemeal repairs to individual damage sites, consistent with QRA guidelines.

However, recognizing the inefficiencies of this method, Goondiwindi Regional Council (GRC) conducted a comparative cost analysis. Contractor estimates for pothole repairs, patching, and pavement rehabilitation were assessed against the cost of stabilising and sealing the full length and width of the damaged section. The analysis demonstrated that fullwidth stabilisation provided superior value for money while enhancing road resilience.

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To support the proposal, GRC engaged pavement designers and initiated materials testing. The existing pavement comprised a variable base course and subbase, with subgrade California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values ranging from 2.5 to 15. After evaluating the pavement profiles, the project was divided into two sections: • Section A: 300 mm stabilised layer with a 50 mm imported material overlay • Section B: 275 mm stabilised layer with a 100 mm imported material overlay Material sourcing posed a significant challenge, as the nearest commercial gravel supplier was over 150 km away. Instead, Council identified a local lime mine whose scalpings met Main Roads Type 2.1 standards.

The material was costeffective, readily available in the required quantities, and located just 20 km from the project site.

The construction contract was awarded in April 2023, with completion in October 2023. Despite minor challenges related to cold weather and seal application, the project was delivered under budget at $1.4 million—approximately 20% less than the estimated cost of traditional repairs.

The outcome was a more resilient, safer road with reduced future maintenance costs.

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The second case study is Callandoon Road. Following the December 2021 floods, an 8.3 km section of Callandoon Road, southeast of Goondiwindi, sustained significant damage, affecting approximately 43% of its surface area.

Conventional repairs would have involved a mix of pothole patching, in-situ stabilisation, unbound pavement repair, and twocoat sealing.

far greater flood resilience and overall durability.

Unlike Riverton Road, Callandoon Road’s reconstruction faced additional design constraints due to the surrounding floodplain.

The road’s finished surface level could not be increased at all, necessitating an innovative solution: 1. Stabilisation to a depth of 280 mm, incorporating 50 mm of imported material.

GRC conducted a side2. Removal of 50 mm of by-side cost analysis, stabilised material from comparing the conventional the surface to maintain approach with a full-length the original level. and width stabilisation alternative. The latter option 3. Repurposing the removed material for was not only $20,000 road shoulders. cheaper but also provided

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Construction commenced in June 2024 and proceeded smoothly, despite encountering unsuitable material requiring removal.

The final seal was applied in October, and the road was fully reopened to traffic shortly thereafter.

These case studies highlight the potential for local governments to achieve better long-term infrastructure outcomes by advocating for valuefor-money approaches within existing QRA funding guidelines. By demonstrating costeffectiveness and resilience benefits, Councils can push for funding approvals that go beyond standard patchwork repairs, ultimately enhancing disaster resilience without additional financial burden.

The success of Riverton Road and Callandoon Road underscores the need for a shift in approach. Rather than depleting limited Betterment and Resilience funds on projects that could achieve resilience through strategic funding applications, these funds should be reserved for high-cost projects where resilience measures incur

significant additional expenses. As Queensland faces an increasing frequency of natural disasters, it is imperative that local governments proactively seek opportunities to enhance infrastructure resilience, ensuring long-term cost savings and improved community outcomes.

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2024 FUTURES CHALLENGE

Jessica Tse, Cadet Engineer, Georgiou Participating in the IPWEA-QNT Futures Challenge was an eyeopening experience that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Presenting my final-year thesis on microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) and its effects on the hydromechanical properties of clay to an audience of over 400 industry professionals was both exciting and challenging. Preparing for the conference required me to deepen my understanding of my research and articulate my findings clearly to professionals outside my academic circle. Despite the effort involved, this experience was invaluable in strengthening my ability to communicate complex engineering concepts to a broader audience.

Attending the IPWEA-QNT 2024 Annual Conference provided numerous key takeaways. One of the most significant benefits was

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the opportunity to engage with professional engineers who deal with real-world challenges similar to those my thesis aimed to address. These discussions not only provided insightful feedback on my experimental studies but also broadened my perspective on more practical applications and future research possibilities.

The conference became a space for constructive dialogue, allowing me to critically assess my work’s relevance to the civil engineering industry.

One of the most valuable skills I developed through this experience was the ability to convey technical concepts in a more simplified and engaging manner. Public speaking is an essential skill for any engineer, and explaining my research to a diverse

audience helped me refine my ability to communicate effectively. Additionally, I gained helpful career advice from experienced engineers, which has helped shape my approach to professional growth and development.

Networking was another major highlight of the event.

I had the opportunity to connect with engineers from various sectors to discuss industry trends and innovations. The insights and connections I gained have already had a lasting impact on my career aspirations, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in advancing engineering solutions.

Beyond my own experience, I was incredibly inspired by the other Futures Challenge participants.

While I was honoured to

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receive the award, I firmly believe that all participants demonstrated exceptional research and innovation.

Their work was equally deserving of recognition, and I gained a great deal from learning about their projects and approaches.

Winning the Futures Challenge was not just a personal achievement but a moment that reinforced my confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the engineering field.

It demonstrated that with dedication and perseverance, I can drive change and inspire others to pursue their passions while staying true to themselves. This recognition has empowered me to embrace leadership opportunities and advocate for innovative engineering ideas with greater confidence.

Reflecting on this journey, I realise how profoundly it has influenced my career path.

It has encouraged me to be more proactive in sharing my ideas and to embrace leadership roles rather than shy away from them. The experience has underscored the importance of taking every opportunity to grow, connect, and contribute to the engineering community.

I am deeply grateful to IPWEA-QNT for the opportunity to present my work, which has been more rewarding than I could have anticipated.

About Jessica Jessica Tse is a final-year student at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), pursuing a double degree in Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Business (Economics). Through her studies, Jessica has developed a strong passion for civil engineering, particularly in geotechnical, construction and structural

design. She is eager to expand her experience and skills, aspiring to be a significant contributor to Australia’s civil engineering community.

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AUTOMATING CONSTRUCTION CARBON TRACKING THROUGH AI-POWERED INVOICE INTERPRETATION

Jun Wang, Senior Lecturer, Western Sydney University

Peng Wu, Professor, Curtin University

Victor Mantilla, Acting Manager Design and Placemaking Services, Sunshine Coast Council 1. Introduction As the construction sector accelerates its pursuit of national and global decarbonisation targets, the demand for accurate and verifiable 90

tracking of actual carbon emissions has become increasingly critical. Despite advancements in carbon estimation during the design phase, a substantial gap persists in the methods used to monitor, report, and audit emissions generated throughout the construction stage.

The current industry practice for tracking actual carbon emissions typically involves general contractors distributing spreadsheet templates to subcontractors, suppliers, and logistics companies.

These templates are intended to capture carbon-relevant data such as materials delivered, transport modes, energy consumed on site, and waste generated. However, this manual method suffers from a number of critical limitations. First, many subcontractors and suppliers are small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) where staff may lack the technical knowledge to accurately report carbon data.

As a result, incorrect or incomplete entries

are common. Second, manually completing and consolidating spreadsheets across dozens of stakeholders consumes valuable time and often results in delays in reporting. Lastly, since the data is manually entered, it is difficult to trace individual entries back to their original data sources such as invoices or receipts, which complicates the audit process.

As reporting and auditing requirements become more stringent, there is a growing demand for an efficient, scalable, and data-driven approach to actual carbon tracking.

To address this need, we propose an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Based Carbon Emission Tracking System that leverages construction invoices— ubiquitous documents already produced in all procurement and operational workflows—as the primary data source.

2. AI-Based Carbon Emission Tracking from Invoices Our proposed method centres around the automated interpretation of invoices using AI to extract carbon-relevant data and map them to standard national carbon emission databases. This approach presents several advantages. Invoices are already generated for procurement, delivery, and operational activities, requiring no additional data entry.

Each invoice typically contains validated transaction data, improving traceability.

Moreover, AI models can be trained to recognise and extract the required fields, dramatically reducing the human workload and ensuring consistency.

The workflow for this AI-based method consists of five key steps:

Step 1: Invoice Classification Users can upload individual invoices or perform batch uploads for an entire construction project, streamlining the data intake process. Once uploaded, the system automatically classifies each invoice into one of three categories based on its content. Type 1 invoices relate to material deliveries and are used to quantify embodied carbon (A1–A3) and transportation emissions (A4). Type 2 invoices pertain to construction energy use— such as diesel fuel or electricity consumption— and contribute to emissions under A5. Type 3 invoices correspond to waste treatment and disposal services, also falling within the A5 emission category. This automated classification enables efficient sorting and downstream processing of large volumes of project documentation.

Step 2: AI-Based Data Extraction In this step, we employ agentic AI—an intelligent system capable of autonomous task execution with contextual awareness—to interpret and extract carbon-relevant information directly from construction invoices. The process begins with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to convert invoice documents, whether scanned or digital, into machine-readable text. The agentic AI then uses Large Language Model (LLM) techniques to understand the structure, semantics, and intent of the content.

For Type 1 (material delivery) invoices, the AI identifies and extracts details such as material type, description, quantity, units, weight, delivery date, origin and destination locations, and the delivery method. For Type 2 (construction energy use) invoices, the system

recognises energy types (e.g., diesel or electricity), their quantities, units, and usage dates. For Type 3 (waste treatment) invoices, the AI extracts waste categories, quantities, treatment methods, and service dates. By mimicking human-like understanding and decision-making, the agentic AI continuously adapts to varying invoice formats and terminology, ensuring accurate data capture across diverse suppliers and service providers.

Step 3: Human-in-theLoop Review and Data Completion While the AI model achieves high accuracy in data extraction, human oversight remains essential to ensure contextual correctness and completeness. Through an intuitive review interface, users can inspect the AIinterpreted data, correct any misinterpretations, and validate key entries.

Additionally, if certain 91

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critical information—such as the material source location—is missing from the invoice, users can manually input this data to enable accurate carbon calculations. This humanin-the-loop mechanism not only ensures data integrity but also supports edge cases where essential carbon-related details are absent from the original documents.

Step 4: Carbon Mapping and Standardisation Once the extracted data is verified, the system proceeds to match each material or energy entry with corresponding categories in recognised carbon emission databases.

At present, the system integrates the Australian Life Cycle Inventory (AusLCI), with plans to expand to additional databases. Because suppliers may describe similar materials in different ways, users are provided with an interface to review and, if necessary, adjust the automated mappings. This step ensures that each item is accurately aligned with the correct emission factor, maintaining consistency and reliability in carbon accounting.

Step 5: Confirmation and Auto-Calculation Following the mapping stage, the system performs automatic carbon emission calculations based on established lifecycle assessment methodologies.

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The results encompass embodied carbon from material production and transport (A1–A4), as well as emissions from on-site energy use and waste treatment activities (A5). The calculated emissions are compiled into structured reports that support projectlevel auditing, compliance documentation, and sustainability performance reviews.

3. Testing and Findings To assess the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed AI-enabled workflow, we conducted a series of experiments using real construction invoices provided by the Sunshine Coast Council. These documents were used to both train and fine-tune the AI models and to validate the complete end-to-end carbon tracking process.

The results of this testing phase were insightful.

Digitally generated PDF invoices—those produced directly from accounting software—exhibited strong structural consistency and formatting, enabling the AI to extract key fields with over 98% accuracy. These high-quality documents allowed for precise interpretation of quantities, units, material types, and associated metadata.

In contrast, the system’s performance declined significantly when processing scanned

handwritten invoices.

Due to irregular fonts, blurred text, and varied layouts, accuracy dropped to around 68%. These limitations highlight the importance of document quality in achieving reliable AI performance and suggest that additional training on diverse invoice formats, including the use of handwriting recognition models, may be necessary.

Another key challenge uncovered during testing was the inconsistency or absence of essential carbon-related information in some invoices. A common example occurred with Type 1 material delivery invoices, where the origin location was often missing— providing only the delivery address of the project site.

As an interim solution, the system defaulted to using the supplier’s company address, typically extracted from the invoice header or logo section. However, this assumption may introduce inaccuracies, particularly when suppliers operate from multiple distribution centres or branch locations.

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4. Conclusion and Future Work The AI-driven invoice interpretation approach presents a compelling alternative to traditional spreadsheet-based methods for tracking actual carbon emissions in construction projects.

By leveraging transaction documents that are already generated throughout project delivery, this system minimises manual effort, strengthens data traceability, and improves the accuracy and reliability of carbon reporting and audits.

Nonetheless, further developments are required to extend its applicability and robustness. One key area involves expanding the dataset used to train and validate the model.

To date, the majority of test cases have involved Type 1 invoices related to material delivery. For a more complete view of construction carbon emissions, additional data from Type 2 (energy use) and Type 3 (waste treatment) invoices must be collected and integrated.

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In parallel, support for additional carbon databases is essential. Currently, only the AusLCI database is integrated. Future versions will incorporate the NSW Embodied Carbon Databook and NABERS National material emission factors database, providing more comprehensive and regionally appropriate emission factors.

Advancing semantic recognition and contextaware mapping remains a key focus of our ongoing development. By integrating construction-specific terminology into the agentic AI framework, we aim to enhance the system’s ability to automatically align invoice data with standardised carbon categories. To support continuous improvement, a user feedback mechanism will be introduced, allowing real-world corrections to inform and refine the AI’s performance over time— ensuring the system adapts dynamically to evolving industry practices and documentation standards.

In conclusion, this AIenabled approach marks an important step toward scalable, verifiable, and efficient carbon tracking in construction. As regulatory and client demands grow for transparent sustainability reporting, automated systems like this one will become essential tools for modern carbon accounting in the built environment sector.

ENGINEERING FOR PUBLIC WORKS Become a Contributor Almost 10,000 people actively working in the public works field, including engineers, professionals from various fields such as urban planners and designers, surveyors, landscape architects, local government executives, elected officials, and other decisionmakers, receive the EPW Journal.

We are inviting IPWEA-QNT members to submit technical articles, stories and highlights for publication in the feature articles section of EPW Journal’s second 2025 edition, which will be released in November.

Advertise with us!

Connect with thousands of professionals delivering projects and services for state and local governments across Queensland.

Engineering for Public Works Articles, reports, features and news on the public works sector in Queensland with a focus on the engineering of our communities.

Distribution Circulated quarterly to almost 6,000 contacts across the sector and around the world.

Performance Over 10,000 digital impressions and more than 800 Reads.

Readers Engineers, technicians, surveyors, financial professionals, planners, designers, legislators, councillors and others involved in the delivery of public works and services.

Contact us at membership@ipweaq.com for a discussion on publishing or advertising in the EPW Journal.

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YOUNG IPWEA-QNT MEMBERSHIP MEETUP and supporting these young professionals is essential to staying at the forefront of industry advancements.

Clare Ferguson, Civil Engineer, Proterra Group The engineering and public works sectors are at a pivotal moment, facing the dual challenge of an aging workforce and the need to nurture the next generation of engineers and public works professionals. As experienced professionals retire, there is a pressing need to attract, support, and retain young engineers to ensure the ongoing growth, innovation and resilience of the industry.

Young engineers bring a fresh perspective and a natural openness to technological advances.

They are often quick to adopt emerging tools, embrace digital solutions and explore innovative methods for improving project delivery. Their adaptability is particularly valuable in an era where technology is transforming how infrastructure is designed, constructed and maintained. Encouraging 96

At the same time, we cannot overlook the invaluable knowledge and experience held by senior engineers, project managers and other seasoned professionals.

Decades of practical experience provide critical insights into risk management, stakeholder communication and the successful delivery of complex projects – knowledge that cannot be replaced by technology alone.

Bridging the gap between the new generation and experienced professionals is key to sustaining and strengthening the industry.

To achieve this, mentorship programs, knowledgesharing initiatives, and opportunities for cross-generational collaboration are essential.

By encouraging senior engineers to share their expertise while empowering young professionals to lead innovation, organisations create a workforce that is both forwardthinking and grounded in practical knowledge. This collaborative approach enhances project outcomes and ensures that valuable institutional knowledge is preserved for future generations.

Another critical aspect of supporting young professionals is recognising and addressing the unique challenges faced by those in the Under-35 age bracket. This is the primary age group where many individuals, particularly women, take time off work to start and raise a family.

Supporting their return to the workforce is vital to maintaining a diverse and inclusive industry. By promoting and fostering flexible work environments, organisations can help these professionals successfully balance their careers with family responsibilities. This not only aids in retaining talented individuals but also ensures that the engineering and public works sectors remain diverse and innovative.

by IPWEA. IPWEA’s CEO, David Jenkins, is fully committed to supporting our initiatives and ensuring the ongoing success of YIPWEA and its members.

For me, YIPWEA represents a valuable opportunity for our younger members (those under 35) to collaborate, socialise, and provide support and training in a more relatable way. Our first membership meet-up

at the Annual Conference in Brisbane last October was a tremendous success. The goal of the meet-up was to provide an opportunity for our U35 members to gather in a social environment.

Free from the formalities of the workplace and the presence of senior colleagues, we were able to connect, meet new faces and enjoy some, ah, gently competitive bowling.

Young IPWEA (YIPWEA) was developed, originally in Western Australia, to support, develop and advocate for young members of IPWEA, enabling them to realise their full potential leading public works and services, infrastructure planning, delivery and operations.

The QLD-NT division has been a little quiet as people transitioned in and out of roles, but it’s back! I have been working with other state representatives to develop our very own Strategic Plan and Framework, which will be supported 97

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The event exceeded expectations, with around 25 attendees from a diverse range of organisations, including Western Downs Regional Council, McCullough Robertson, Toowoomba Regional Council, GenEng, IPWEAQNT, RoadTek, Logan City Council, and Proterra Group. This mix of public and private sectors, as well as various roles within these organisations, created a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. It was a great opportunity to get to know some of our younger colleagues while having a bit of fun.

Building on this momentum, Young IPWEA-QNT aims to continue offering regular meet-ups at branch and annual conferences, along with informal networking events throughout the year.

We also recognise this importance of professional development and will be working to provide opportunities to earn CPD hours and support members in obtaining or maintaining RPEQ registration. Additionally, we plan to offer targeted courses and resources specifically designed for our age demographic and industry experience.

We remain focused on strengthening these initiatives and expanding opportunities for collaboration. We aim to continue bridging

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the generational gap by enhancing mentorship programs, promoting flexible work policies, and creating pathways for young engineers to take on leadership roles. By fostering a culture that values both innovation and experience, we are building a future where the engineering and public works sectors are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow while preserving the lessons of the past.

Supporting young people in engineering is an investment in the industry’s longevity and resilience.

By fostering collaboration between generations and embracing flexible, inclusive work environments, we ensure that the next generation is prepared to tackle future challenges and continue to deliver projects that service our communities effectively and sustainably for years to come.

YOUNG IPWEA-QNT

YOUNG IPWEA-QNT

Membership YOUNG IPWEA-QNT

IPWEA-QNT Supports Students and Gradudates!

We Provide

A network to expand your support group Events and activities including, peer-networking focused events Discounts on publications and events, offering the latest information on what’s happening in Public Works in Queensland and Northern Territory IPWEA-QNT Membership is Free for students!

Student membership is complimentary for persons not in full-time employment and enrolled in full-time studies in civil engineering or related disciplines for the duration of their studies. Student ID &/or Transcript are to be supplied and valid.

Enquire about our Discounted Membership for graduates.

A student who has recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in engineering. This category of membership is discounted to assist recent graduates for up to five years post-graduation. The category is not agerelated and includes mature age students. Applicant must upload their graduation certificate confirming their date of graduation.

Contact us at membership@ipweaq.com or on 07 3632 6800 to discuss our membership options!

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IPWEA-QNT Team

IPWEA-QNT Team

MEET THE IPWEA-QNT TEAM

Brett Wright Chief Executive Officer

Jesper Jensen Chief Operating Officer

Rebecca Cobon General Manager, Membership & Corporate Partnerships

Justine Ennor Manager, Marketing & Events

Ivan Fan Manager, Technical Services

Emily Yiannakis Manager, Professional Development

Anika Joglekar Marketing Coordinator

James Breene Membership & Communications Officer

Chloe Begley Office Administrator

Judith Hale Senior Bookkeeper

Eleanor Lok Accountant

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30

Years

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5

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Justin Holzheimer

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Carlos Barrero

Years

2025 Member Milestones

MEMBER MILESTONES JANUARY - JUNE 2025 Years

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Mike Brady

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Bryan Payne

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Larry Griffiths

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Caitie Becker

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Larry Piggott

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Dwayne Honor

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Gary Boyle

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Debra Dibley

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Hannah Connors

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Jason Dallinger

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Clare Ferguson

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Sarath Jayasekara

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Myles Klein

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John Martin

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Samuel Martin

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Raelene Mcdonell

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Yasmin Proctor

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Kevin Searle

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Joshua Seskis

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Onkar Singh Parpotra

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Colin Warmington

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Janice Wilson

25

Years

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Richard Corbett

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Martin Crow

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10

Years

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Darryl Airlie

Allan Hull

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Mark Atkinson

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Brian Milanovic

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Daniel Berry

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Andrew Ryan

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Bede Castles

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Kev Chambers

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Saron Kimber

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Davendra Naidu

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Frank Nastasi

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Haydn O’Leary

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Luke Tanner

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John Teague

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Nick Wellwood

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David Bell

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Grayden Curry

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Michael Donald

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John Knott

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Robert Sarvari

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