APAC Outlook - issue 64

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Issue 64

WALKINSHAW GROUP Driving in the DNA

MARTINUS

Creating nextgeneration railways

Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+ Drink, promotes the cognitive benefits of a health-boosting beverage and shares his plans to accelerate the brand’s growth

Andreas Foerster, General Manager, tells us how BBS Automation’s forward-thinking automated assembly and testing systems are providing cutting-edge solutions

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Smooth cruising for European manufacturing

Behind the global tech powerhouse of the world’s Smartest City

The suite life of the hotel industry

World-class medical diagnostics for Africa

T R AV E L GUIDE

COCA-COLA SABCO MOZAMBIQUE Iconic and impactful brands and beverages

SYRAH RESOURCES LTD

Putting Mozambique on the map for global EV development

CYPRUS

GENIE ENERGY LTD

BATCHFIRE RESOURCES

Mediterranean escapism in the Land of Aphrodite

Advancing the solar generation

F E AT U R E

MOELLER AEROSPACE

PACTIV EVERGREEN

VAN MOER LOGISTICS

On a trajectory of expansion, Batchfire Resources is the low-fugitive emission energy coal producer pursuing plans for Net Zero

Sustainability and innovation in food and beverage packaging

Gideon Burger, CEO of Axiology Labs discusses providing top quality laboratory products for life science solutions across Africa

quality laboratory products for life science solutions across Africa Gideon Burger, CEO of Axiology Labs discusses providing top

Innoquest Diagnostics is moving forward as one in pursuit of transformative healthcare. Ginny Foo, CEO, gives us the details

Donavan Hutchinson, MD of SHI UK, tells us how how organisations are being empowered to adapt to changing business models and workplace strategies

LTD RESOURCES SYRAH

transformative healthcare. Ginny Foo, CEO, gives us the details Innoquest Diagnostics is moving forward as one in pursuit of

empowered to adapt to changing business models and workplace strategies Donavan Hutchinson, MD of SHI UK, tells us how how organisations are being

brands and beverages Iconic and impactful

MOZAMBIQUE SABCO COCA-COLA

RESOURCES BATCHFIRE

From quaint fishing village to bustling resort getaway

EVERGREEN PACTIV

AEROSPACE MOELLER

RE S US

We go Behind the Lens with culinary storyteller, Karolina Wiercigroch

VALLARTA PUERTO From quaint fishing village to bustling resort getaway

gas turbine technology discovery in air travel and industrial Ascending to new heights of

beverage packaging innovation in food and Sustainability and

TRAVEL GUIDE

PUERTO VALLARTA

We go Behind the Lens with culinary storyteller, Karolina Wiercigroch

of modern infrastructure investment Expert Eye, Amanda Li, discusses the unsustainable nature

LOGISTICS MOER VAN

pursuing plans for Net Zero is the low-fugitive emission energy coal producer On a trajectory of expansion, Batchfire Resources

Charting cleaner waters for the Adriatic

Expert Eye, Amanda Li, discusses the unsustainable nature of modern infrastructure investment

leading sustainable logistics in Belgium Founder and CEO, Jo Van Moer, discusses

EV development on the map for global Putting Mozambique

YACHTING’S SUSTAINABLE REVOLUTION

Ascending to new heights of discovery in air travel and industrial gas turbine technology

Founder and CEO, Jo Van Moer, discusses leading sustainable logistics in Belgium

MO

waters for the Adriatic Charting cleaner

REVOLUTION SUSTAINABLE YACHTING’S

GUIDE TRAVEL

F E AT U R E

solar generation Advancing the

Land of Aphrodite escapism in the Mediterranean

ENERGY LTD GENIE

CYPRUS GUIDE T R AV E L

diagnostics for Africa World-class medical

AFRICA LANCET CERBA

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WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

EDITORIAL Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outlookpublishing.com Editor: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outlookpublishing.com Editor: Ed Budds ed.budds@outlookpublishing.com Junior Editor: Rachel Carr rachel.carr@outlookpublishing.com Junior Editor: Lauren Kania lauren.kania@outlookpublishing.com

PRODUCTION Production Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com Senior Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com Junior Designer: Louisa Martin louisa.martin@outlookpublishing.com Production Manager: Megan Cooke megan.cooke@outlookpublishing.com Digital Marketing Manager: Fox Tucker fox.tucker@outlookpublishing.com Web Editor: Oliver Shrouder oliver.shrouder@outlookpublishing.com Social Media Executive: Jake Crickmore jake.crickmore@outlookpublishing.com

BUSINESS CEO: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com Managing Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com Chief Commercial Officer: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Regional Director: Joshua Mann joshua.mann@outlookpublishing.com HEADS OF PROJECTS Callam Waller callam.waller@outlookpublishing.com Deane Anderton deane.anderton@outlookpublishing.com Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com Josh Hyland josh.hyland@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Thomas Arnold thomas.arnold@outlookpublishing.com TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Marvin Iseghehi marvin.iseghehi@outlookpublishing.com SALES AND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com PROJECT MANAGERS Cameron Lawrence cameron.lawrence@outlookpublishing.com Dennis Morales dennis.morales@outlookpublishing.com Jack Belton jack.belton@outlookpublishing.com Jordan Levey jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com Kierron Rose kierron.rose@outlookpublishing.com Kyle Livingstone kyle.livingstone@outlookpublishing.com Liam Pye liam.pye@outlookpublishing.com Nicholas Kernan nicholas.kernan@outlookpublishing.com Poppi Burke poppi.burke@outlookpublishing.com Taylor Green taylor.green@outlookpublishing.com ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com Finance Assistant: Suzie Kittle suzie.kittle@outlookpublishing.com Finance Assistant: Victoria McAllister victoria.mcallister@outlookpublishing.com CONTACT APAC Outlook Norvic House, 29-33 Chapelfield Road Norwich, NR2 1RP, United Kingdom Sales: +44 (0) 1603 363 631 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 363 655

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Energising the Region Welcome to the 64th edition of APAC Outlook magazine.

Energy drinks are widely promoted as products that increase energy levels and enhance both cognitive and physical performance. As such, the consumption of energy drinks has dramatically increased in the last two decades, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

Our latest issue shines a light on this highly lucrative segment of the food and beverage sector.

Shine+ Drink is pioneering natural nootropics as the solution for healthconscious individuals looking for a mental pick-me-up without the added sugars, sweeteners, artificial colours, or flavours.

We learn about the numerous benefits of natural nootropics, and the company’s remarkable journey since it has developed and launched this unique product line.

“Our founders started experimenting to avoid sugar crashes and harmful ingredients. They came across natural nootropics, and Shine+ was born!” reveals CEO, Jonny Harrison.

“As a brand, we aim to cater to a broad spectrum of customers who value mental acuity and physical well-being — anyone in need of a ‘brain boost’ combined with refreshment.”

In an equally energising read, we find out how Walkinshaw Group is working tirelessly to become Australia’s biggest automotive manufacturer.

Speaking to CEO, Ryan Walkinshaw, we also discover how the company has combined to take on supercars through Walkinshaw Andretti United, the motor racing team born from three iconic organisations in world motorsport that has achieved instant success since it was unveiled.

“This exciting announcement sent chins wagging, as fans around the globe pondered what these three teams could potentially achieve together,” Ryan tells us.

Another company that is likewise on track for greatness is Martinus.

Spearheading the global rail renaissance, Martinus works diligently to deliver multi-billion-dollar projects and maintain the company’s position as the only privately-owned railway infrastructure business in Australia.

“We share knowledge across all teams within Martinus to ensure that we are always improving, doing the best and delivering our projects efficiently with the best outcomes for our clients,” Treaven Martinus, CEO and Founder, tells us.

Elsewhere, you can expect a multitude of invigorating corporate stories from the likes of BBS Automation, Pembroke Resources, Empyrion DC, and many more.

We hope that you enjoy your read.

Jack Salter Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 3

CONTENTS

10

REGULARS

6 NEWS Around Asia Pacific in seven stories

8

8 EXPERT EYE BU SI N ESS I N SI G H TS

10 Food & Beverage Naturally Brightening Your Day

14

4 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

18

Harvesting innovative solutions

TO P I C A L F O C U S

18 Mining Celebrating Coal

An energy drink with a difference

Bringing Queensland’s coal industry together

14 Energy & Utilities

168 THE FINAL WORD

Swap and Go Revolutionising road transport fleets

What does good leadership look like to you?

APAC OUTLOOK CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S

22 SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

MANUFACTURING

24 Walkinshaw Group Hardwired Automotive Passion Driving in the DNA

38 BBS Automation Sustaining Cutting-Edge Solutions Forward-thinking automated assembly and testing systems

46 PWR Advanced Cooling Technology High-Performance Cooling World leaders in thermal management

MINING

54 Pembroke Resources Opportunities and Sustainability Australia’s modern mining project

96 CON ST R U C T I ON

96 Martinus On Track for Greatness Creating next-generation railways

108 SEE Group Seeing the Future of Construction Engineering excellence - you love to SEE it

120 EQUANS ANZ

128 TE C H N O LO GY

Empowering Transitions

128 Enable

Supporting the energy, digital, and industrial transitions

Building a Digital Haven Essential connectivity infrastructure for Ōtautahi

138 Empyrion DC Next-Generation Digital Infrastructure Platform in Asia Gearing up digital infrastructure to be ready for technology and AI

54

E N E R GY & U TI L I TI E S

146 Evie Networks 70 PBE Group Mining’s Trusted Turnkey Provider

120

Powering Australia’s EV revolution

Five divisions, one mission

154 Waaree Energies

80 Wabtec Mining

One with the Sun

Accelerating the Future of Transportation

Solar energy solutions – sustainable, affordable, and promoting energy security

Creating a more efficient and reliable mining ecosystem

F O O D & B E V E R AG E

86 Molycop The Future of Mining Placing your mine in trusted hands

Charging Towards an Energy-Efficient Future

160 Lae Biscuit Company 148

How the Cookie Crumbles PNG’s pioneer biscuit manufacturers

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 5

NEWS

Around Asia Pacific in seven stories…

TECHNOLOGY

DISNEY STREAMS CRICKET WORLD CUP

TECHNOLOGY

TIKTOK SHOP BANNED IN INDONESIA THE INDONESIAN GOVERNMENT has recently announced that it will ban the use of TikTok Shop, an online shopping space on the widely popular social media platform, in accordance with the new rules of Southeast Asia’s biggest economy.

With over 125 million TikTok users in Indonesia, the suspension will help

to protect local physical and online retailers. When announcing the measures, Indonesia’s Trade Minister, Zulkifli Hasan, commented that “e-commerce cannot become social media. It is separated.”

TikTok has been told that if the e-commerce platform isn’t taken down, it could lose its license to operate in the country.

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

BUSHFIRES AND TREACHEROUS FLOODS SWARM AUSTRALIA THOUSANDS OF AUSTRALIANS must prepare for dangerous flooding hours after having to combat threatening bushfires in Victoria’s Gippsland region and New South Wales’ (NSW) south coast.

This follows a pattern of flooding and bushfires seen in recent years, as the country feels the effects of global warming, and is one of the reasons why the government is determined to 6 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

act on climate change.

In the Gippsland region, hundreds of firefighters have spent several days battling two serious blazes that have triggered evacuations, whilst several homes have been destroyed by the fire in the Bega Valley, NSW.

DISNEY+ HOTSTAR, AN Indian streaming service owned by Walt Disney Company India, is streaming the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup for free in the country.

In an unusual move, the company has attained the rights to show the tournament to challenge the broadcasting status quo and rectify its recent drop in subscribers, caused by losing the rights to the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The move is projected to boost advertising revenues by increasing the volume of smartphone users accessing the streaming service for free.

R E TA I L

ENERGY & UTILITIES

GOLDEN AGE OF JAPANESE REAL ESTATE

ORGANISED CHAOS IN INDIA OVER OIL PRICES

THE JAPANESE PROPERTY sector is experiencing a golden period as foreign investment surpasses 45 percent, bolstered by the weak position of the Japanese yen and the country’s highly flexible monetary policy.

This follows a year of growing property potential as the level of transparency in the retail and multifamily property sector is increasing.

Multifamily properties are categorised as buildings or complexes that have more than one rentable unit, unlike individual properties that only

HARDEEP SINGH PURI, the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas in India, has warned that there will be ‘organised chaos’ if national oil prices break USD$100 per barrel. Although the Southeast Asian country is more than equipped to weather the storm of rising petrol costs, he has warned that it will still cause disruption.

“You should not be worrying about the impact on India, as it has a large economy with lots of domestic product,” the minister has commented, whilst warning that other countries in the Asia Pacific region may not be able to do so.

have a single space.

Foreign investor volumes saw a 100 percent increase in Q1 of 2023 on a year-on-year basis, according to Koji Nato, JLL’s Research Director of Capital Markets in Japan.

R E TA I L

MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA LAUNCHES NEW BUSINESS MODEL MERCEDES-BENZ INDIA HAS revealed plans to launch 15 new vehicles under a revitalised retail model which dictates a direct-tocustomer sale, offering a better overall customer experience.

Named the ‘Retail of the Future’

(ROTF), the new business model means that each Mercedes brand will own their entire stock of cars and sell them through appointed franchise partners, who provide a more luxurious buying opportunity.

The implementation of the ROTF model seeks to increase sales and keep Mercedes-Benz India up to date with the evolving dynamics of global retail and the influence of digitalisation.

H E A LT H C A R E

MEDICINAL CANNABIS GROWER SECURES SUPPLY DEAL BASED IN VICTORIA, Australia, ECS Botanics has secured an AUD$24 million deal to supply medicinal cannabis to MediCann Health (MediCann).

As a result, shares in EC Botanics rose by more than 22 percent as MediCann marked its third supply contract in just three months. The deal is set to provide dried cannabis for the next five years, commencing in January 2024. The news comes after ECS Botanics recently revealed record revenues of AUD$15.6 million for the current financial year.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 7

How Sensor Technology Can Support Agriculture for the Better

W

ith various concerns regarding climate change, water shortages, and geographic diversity, the agricultural sector in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region stands on unsteady ground.

In order to ensure both productivity and sustainability, operators are compelled to seek out every available advantage, with efficiency and maximising output as priorities. These objectives can be achieved, but only through the wholehearted adoption of innovative solutions.

The report carried out by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underscores the significance of agriculture’s role, attributing up to 8.5 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to the sector in 2019. While a number of countries in the APAC region have set their own goals for net zero emissions, every nation should be prioritising improvements to their own agricultural infrastructure to increase output and reduce environmental impact.

8 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

The rise of sustainable technology presents innovators with a unique opportunity to initiate substantial changes within the agricultural sector. Ritam Gandhi, Director and Founder of Studio Graphene, gives us the full story Written by: Ritam Gandhi, Director and Founder, Studio Graphene

Furthermore, in 2023, the issue of food price inflation has emerged as a persistently challenging trend, with the price of staple items reaching concerningly high levels – rice, for instance, is currently at an almost 12-year high in Asia. The Philippines is particularly vulnerable, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for food at 34.8 percent. Agriculture is left shouldering the burden of increasing its output without significantly raising

its own costs, allowing retailers to lower prices and support shoppers who are struggling with the rising cost of living.

In response to these challenges, technology is positioned to offer solutions capable of mitigating these financial pressures. Despite some agricultural operations having already adopted Internet of Things (IoT) sensor technology, the APAC agricultural sector has barely scratched the surface of the potential benefits that emerging technology can bring to its productivity.

Benefitting from precision agriculture The adoption of tech-driven solutions is sweeping through all stages of the food production process, from production and transportation to storage and retail. Technology plays a pivotal role in streamlining international and municipal transportation, reducing travel times, and employing sensor technology to continually monitor storage conditions.

EXPERT EYE TECHNOLOGY

One particularly promising avenue for improving farm operations lies in the integration of IoT sensors and automation systems. These sensors can address a wide array of challenges, offering benefits to farmers across the APAC region, regardless of the specific geographical characteristics of their areas.

Within the agricultural landscape, IoT sensors are strategically placed throughout the cultivation area, generating a wealth of real-time data.

By harnessing advanced analytics, this data can be utilised to extract actionable insights that propel agricultural enterprises forward.

To illustrate, Imperial College London has highlighted a concerning trend: around 12 percent of previously arable land worldwide has become unusable due to excessive fertilisation.

The use of nitrogen-based fertilisers has skyrocketed by 600 percent over the past half-century. Nevertheless, achieving precision in fertiliser application remains a persistent challenge for crop growers.

Sensor technology possesses the capability to precisely measure and forecast soil nitrogen levels.

This empowers informed decisionmaking when it comes to fertilisation planning, accounting for the influence of weather conditions, and aligning fertiliser timing with crop requirements. Such an approach holds the potential to mitigate over-fertilisation while concurrently boosting crop yields and profitability for growers.

A better outcome for the planet In addition to aiding countries in addressing the challenge of rising food prices, sensor technology can play a pivotal role in supporting sustainability initiatives. Agricultural enterprises that integrate the latest technology into their strategies are well-positioned to garner the greatest

advantages. The APAC region stands as one of the most water-stressed areas globally, with 75 percent of Asia facing water scarcity. This escalating demand is further exacerbated by increased requirements from the agricultural sector.

The data generated by sensor technology can be employed to refine planting schedules, guaranteeing that crops are sown during the most favourable growth periods. Moreover, it facilitates precision irrigation, with sensors providing precise guidance on the judicious application of water, ensuring it is distributed precisely where and when it is most needed.

This approach would enable the APAC agricultural sector to reduce its impact on the region’s water challenges.

Moreover, IoT sensors excel in monitoring temperatures effectively.

They enable real-time monitoring of ambient temperatures in various settings, including silos and fields, allowing the detection of potentially damaging wind and frost conditions.

They also prove valuable in specialised areas like monitoring the health of beehives. These sensors empower farmers by providing timely alerts about impending issues, thereby not only enhancing crop protection but also bolstering the overall sustainability of agricultural practices.

Utilising technology for good The rise of sustainable technology holds the potential to reduce waste, increase profitability, and introduce cutting-edge solutions, particularly during times of economic uncertainty and heightened environmental awareness. One significant contributor to these benefits is the widespread adoption

of IoT-enabled sensor technology.

IoT sensors, by providing real-time data on various aspects of farming operations, such as soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health, offer invaluable insights that can significantly enhance productivity and resource efficiency. These sensors enable precise monitoring and management, leading to reduced resource wastage and improved yields, all while promoting sustainable farming practices.

By fostering collaboration among farms, businesses, tech startups, and consumers, we can collectively harness the power of these technological advancements to work towards achieving not only increased profitability, but also a more sustainable and environmentally responsible agricultural sector.

ABOUT THE EXPERT Ritam Gandhi is the Director and Founder of Studio Graphene, a London-based company that specialises in the development of blank canvas technology products including apps, websites, IoT, and more.

The company has completed over 250 projects since it first started in 2014, working with both new entrepreneurs and product development teams within larger companies. www.studiographene.com

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 9

Naturally Brightening Your Day Jonny Harrison, recently appointed CEO of Shine+ Drink, promotes the cognitive benefits of a health-boosting beverage and shares his plans to accelerate the brand’s growth Writer: Rachel Carr

E

nergy drinks are a highly lucrative segment of the food and beverage sector.

They were first introduced to the public in 1949 but did not become popular until 1997. The choice of energy drinks in the market has multiplied since business started booming, with certain brands now using natural ingredients to create a healthier and more nutritious product.

One such brand is Shine+ Drink (Shine+), a progressive beverage company based in Manly, Australia, whose primary offering is a nootropic energy drink that serves 10 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

as a mental energiser without any added sugars, artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners. The unique product line was developed and launched in 2016, sending the company on a remarkable journey.

“As a brand, we aim to cater to a broad spectrum of customers who value mental acuity and physical well-being — anyone in need of a ‘brain boost’ combined with refreshment,” introduces Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+.

The brand promotes natural ingredients, such as nootropic herbs, as they are safer than synthetic ones and have fewer adverse side effects.

SHINE+ DRINK FOOD & BEVERAGE

FEEL LIKE NEW WITH NOOTROPICS The term nootropics refers to substances that increase mental performance, improve cognitive function, and generally enable the consumer to “think, feel, and do better”.

“Some advantages include reducing fatigue, optimising brain function, and boosting motivation and creativity.

Natural nootropic herbs have a long history of use in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine,” Harrison informs us.

Nootropic compounds are divided into two categories: those that have a powerful direct effect on neurotransmitter levels, and those that primarily support

mental function by influencing brain health factors.

The benefits of natural nootropics include the growth of new brain cells, myelination, protection against oxidative stress, and reduced inflammation of brain tissue.

“Our founders started experimenting to avoid sugar crashes and harmful ingredients. They came across natural nootropics, and Shine+ was born!” reveals Harrison.

AN ENERGY FOR GROWTH Today, Shine+ is available in over 7,000 retailers across Australia, including major outlets such as Woolworths, APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 11

SHINE+ DRINK FOOD & BEVERAGE

Coles, 7-Eleven, and Harris Farm.

Having started with 100 millilitre (ml) shots, the company now has a portfolio of exciting flavours in four different product formats.

“After getting local shops to feature a range of shots, the first significant break came when a national petrol station and convenience store chain agreed to stock Shine+ on their counters,” Harrison shares.

Momentum picked up as Shine+ gradually penetrated the retail landscape, with the next step of the evolution commencing after it released larger carbonated glass bottles.

“The glass bottles offered a greater variety of flavours; however, a 500ml can released in 2021 added nootropic ingredients which provided additional performance gains. This ‘Charged’ variety is now available throughout Australia in a range of flavours, and 250ml cans were launched in 2022,” he states.

HERE’S THE SCIENCE PART...

Ginkgo biloba – As one of the oldest living trees, it positively affects cognitive function by improving memory and mental processing. The effects may be attributed to the natural nootropics increasing blood flow to the brain.

Natural caffeine – Likely the most consumed psychotropic substance globally, it is found in tea, coffee, cocoa, and guarana. It reduces fatigue levels by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain.

L-theanine – Found in green tea, it increases attention and alertness, improves sleep quality, enhances reaction times, and promotes calmness and relaxation.

L-theanine also promotes creativity by increasing alpha waves in the brain and works synergistically with caffeine.

Green tea – Containing both L-theanine and caffeine, it promotes a calm and relaxed focus. It also contains polyphenols, which reduce inflammation, and a type of catechin, a natural antioxidant that helps to prevent cell damage. These compounds reduce the formation of harmful free radicals in the body.

Turmeric – Giving Shine+ its iconic yellow appearance, turmeric contains high levels of curcumin, a bioactive substance that boosts your attention span and memory by promoting neurogenesis, and it has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect on the brain.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE “What sets our beverage apart from competitors is how we pioneered nootropic energy drinks in 2016 and we remain a frontrunner for this unique product. We also tapped into the demand for low or no-sugar beverages and natural ingredients, appealing to traditional energy drinkers who want healthier options,” Harrison explains.

All Shine+ drinks include a host of nootropics and adaptogens, including ginkgo biloba, green coffee beans, green tea, L-theanine, B vitamins, and yerba mate, offering an array of health benefits and antioxidants.

Furthermore, having less than 10 calories per 250ml zero-sugar can provide an energy boost without the high-calorie content commonly found in other energy drinks.

As a brand that encourages its customers to “think, feel, and do better”, Shine+ sets a high standard by committing to “ridding the world of bad energy”.

12 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

B vitamins – Shine+ contains vitamins B2, B6, and B12, which are essential for physiological and brain function and sustaining energy levels that aren’t produced by the body. These B vitamins aid neurotransmitter synthesis, homocysteine level regulation, and brain barrier protection.

SHINE+ DRINK FOOD & BEVERAGE

“In a market driven by consumers seeking healthier alternatives and products that carry benefits beyond their primary function, Shine+ effectively caters to this demand, making us a standout in the energy segment.”

A SHINING FUTURE Continually innovating and executing projects to meet Shine+ customers’ evolving needs, Harrison is excited to highlight two recent achievements.

“Firstly, the successful launch of our new 250ml zero-sugar raspberry soda was an answer to the increasing demand for healthier beverage options without compromising on taste, and it delivers the same mental energy boost that Shine+ drinks are known for. This represents a significant step forward in our commitment to promoting mindful consumption and healthier lifestyle choices.

“Secondly, our Charged black cherry flavour was launched in response to customers wanting new and exciting tastes while keeping the core benefits of Shine+. The Charged series delivers an added punch,” he adds.

While penetrating new channels in Australia, Shine+ is also focusing on bringing enhanced energy to fitness enthusiasts with sporting event partnerships due to be announced soon.

Moreover, plans are underway to take the brand to New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and beyond in the coming year.

“2024 is shaping up to be a huge year for Shine+. We’ve recently focused on building a world-class team to help bring the brand to more people in more places by working with existing retailers to raise our profile. As we know, there are extraordinary levels of brand loyalty; when consumers try Shine+, they love it!” Harrison concludes.

shinedrink.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 13

Janus Electric’s next-generation exchangeable batteries are revolutionising road transport fleets. Lex Forsyth, CEO, informs us about this breakthrough technology Writer: Jack Salter

A Lex Forsyth, CEO, Janus Electric

14 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

technology breakthrough that utilises existing electrical infrastructure has created a world-first zero-carbon solution to electrify road transport fleets in Australia.

This ground-breaking battery technology has been developed by Janus Electric (Janus), dedicated to providing Australian road transport businesses with a smarter, safer, and cleaner alternative.

“We identified a need for the electrification of heavy vehicles and

established that the batteries need to be exchangeable. Hence, the Janus solution was born,” opens CEO, Lex Forsyth, who launched Janus in 2020 together with fellow co-Founder, Bevan Dooley.

Aiming to electrify the trucking industry, Janus has developed a patented exchangeable battery system that negates the need for lengthy recharge times.

As the company’s revolutionary batteries are exchangeable, they are not permanently fixed to the truck

JANUS ELECTRIC ENERGY & UTILITIES

Swap and Go and can therefore be removed and charged in just four minutes at any Janus Charge & Change station.

“With most plug-in vehicles, you have to wait for the vehicle to charge, whereas with the Janus solution, you just swap the battery and keep moving; that’s the key difference,” Forsyth states.

Utilising renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro, Janus’ Charge & Change stations provide a three-way system – grid to battery, battery to battery, and battery to grid.

This creates demand for renewable energy during the day and means better utilisation of the national electricity grid, offering utility

providers and governments a significant return on green technology infrastructure. It also enables renewable energy to be fed back into the grid, minimising surges and outages.

“Our Charge & Change stations act as a battery energy storage system, so you’re able to use the battery that’s in the station as a microgrid to help support infrastructure, logistics parks, and grid-style assets,” explains Forsyth.

CONVERTING EXISTING FLEETS The impossible has been made possible by Janus, as the company

can convert prime movers from existing fleets into electric vehicles (EVs).

Janus converts diesel engine trucks due for a rebuild or replacement with a new electric motor, at a cost comparable to rebuilding an existing diesel motor.

“Existing vehicles already produced for fleets can be reutilised by replacing diesel engines with electric motors,” Forsyth outlines.

The daily management of operating costs and margins is at the core of every transport and logistics business.

Fleet electrification will revolutionise existing operating costs and deliver significant, proven savings to the APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 15

JANUS ELECTRIC ENERGY & UTILITIES

bottom line over a vehicle’s lifetime.

It’s estimated that converting existing diesel-powered trucks to Janus’ technology can reduce maintenance and operating costs by up to 70 percent over the vehicle’s lifespan, therefore significantly reducing the need for capital investment in completely new EVs. Indeed, electrification means no oil changes, oil filters, air filters, or fuel filters, whilst reduced levels of heat extend the life of brakes and tyres.

Operationally, fleets are also cheaper to run as the cost of electricity per kilometre (km) is cheaper than diesel.

“The environmental benefits are simply a by-product of the solution.

It’s about how we put returns back into logistics supply chains, increase their margins, reduce their operating costs, and still give them the same efficiencies that they experience with their current vehicles,” emphasises Forsyth.

Fleet owners are also not locked into one type of battery cell, such as lithium-ion, as Janus’ batteries have been created to be fully upgradable with emerging technologies.

EXPANDING PRODUCTION In Melbourne, the company recently converted seven trucks for Cement Australia to the Janus solution, the last of which was delivered in August 2023.

Another converted truck belonging to Janus’ long-standing customer, Fennell Forestry, has now travelled in excess of 42,000km and completed around 180 battery swaps.

It’s undeniable proof of where the technology is going, and very shortly, Janus will also have the world’s largest electric truck operating for Qube which is capable of hauling up to 175 tonnes.

“We have trucks heading to California into the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach with a customer that has come on board there, and we’ve a lot of enquiries coming out of New 16 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Lex Forsyth, CEO, test driving an electric truck

OZ Minerals electric truck trial event with Janus Electric and Qube crews

“ W I T H M O S T P L U G - I N V E H I C L E S , Y O U H AV E T O WA I T F O R T H E V E H I C L E T O C H A R G E , WHEREAS WITH THE JANUS SOLUTION, Y O U J U S T S WA P T H E B AT T E R Y A N D K E E P M O V I N G ; T H AT ’ S T H E K E Y D I F F E R E N C E ” – LEX FORSYTH, CEO, JANUS ELECTRIC

Zealand, Mongolia, South Africa, and other regions,” notes Forsyth.

With the UK and Europe equally starting to show a lot of interest, Janus is expanding production and looking to roll out a further 30 electric trucks

by June 2024 in Australia as well as the US. “It’s about where we position the

business and open up production and conversion centres in key locations and areas across the world,” Forsyth concludes.

www.januselectric.com.au

LAUNCH ISSUE COMING OCTOBER 2023

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Q

ueensland is a highly prospective exploration and operational destination endowed with diverse reserves of coal, minerals, and petroleum and coal seam gas.

In August 2023, the capital of Queensland, Brisbane, played host 18 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

to Mining Pro’s coal industry event at Blackbird Bar & Grill.

Mining Pro is a mining services business founded to partner with mine owners predominantly in the coal sector across Queensland and New South Wales (NSW).

The company’s leadership and site teams execute operational mining plans that allow its client partners to focus on running safe, productive, and profitable mining operations.

Hundreds of skilled miners across open cut and underground

TOPICAL FOCUS MINING

CELEBRATING COAL Mining Pro recently brought together key industry players to celebrate the benefits of coal to Queensland and deliberate the current trends and topics affecting the sector. We find out more about the event with Chairman, Grant Wechsel Writer: Jack Salter

projects are employed by Mining Pro, whose largest operation is at the Curragh Mine in Queensland.

Mining Pro is a member of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), an independent industry body representing the commercial APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 19

TOPICAL FOCUS MINING

developers of the state’s minerals and energy resources.

The idea behind Mining Pro’s coal industry event was a simple one – to get the sector together and openly celebrate the enormous benefits that it provides to Queensland and Australia as a whole, while also discussing current trends and topics in the coal industry.

In front of a packed room, the event was hosted by Chairman, Grant Wechsel, who led a panel discussion about the current challenges facing coal producers, including the impact on investment from the state government’s decision last year to dramatically increase coal royalty taxes.

Joining Wechsel on the panel was QRC CEO, Ian Macfarlane; the Shadow Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Senator Susan McDonald; and Commodity Insights Director, Mark Gresswell.

“IT WAS FANTASTIC TO BRING TOGETHER SO MANY FAMILIAR FACES FROM THE INDUSTRY FOR A TERRIFIC EVENING” – GRANT WECHSEL, CHAIRMAN, MINING PRO

The panellists were united in their concern that the move has seriously jeopardised future investment in Queensland projects, with investors less likely to commit long-term capital to a state that now charges the highest coal royalty tax rates in the world.

In a quickfire Q&A, we speak to Wechsel about the event, the contributions of coal to Queensland, and his personal highlight from the evening.

APAC Outlook (AO): Can you tell us more about the enormous contributions of the mining industry, and coal, to Queensland?

Grant Wechsel, Chairman (GW): Mining in general, and particularly coal mining, plays a pivotal role for Queensland. One in every six jobs in the state comes from mining, and we proudly play a small part in the industry’s massive AUD$94 billion total contribution to the state.

TOPICAL FOCUS MINING

AO: Can you provide some key details about the recent coal industry event presented by Mining Pro? How did the event bring the coal industry together and celebrate the benefits it provides to Queensland?

GW: We started the event on a smaller scale last year. Coal has become somewhat of a dirty word and hasn’t been publicly promoted that broadly in the state. A lot of that is due to a lack of understanding, as Queensland’s premium metallurgical coal is the best in the world and a key component of the global demand for steel.

As a privately-owned and founded company, it was therefore easier for us to step up to the plate and host the event on behalf of the industry without any restriction from shareholders, funders, or third-party pressure. It was fantastic to bring together so many familiar faces from the industry for a terrific evening.

AO: In addition, what trends and hot topics affecting the industry were discussed at the event, and who were some of the key panellists?

Insights, who provided some great information and a short-term outlook on both metallurgical and thermal coal prices.

GW: We were very lucky to have the support of Ian Macfarlane, CEO of QRC, from early on. Ian is a champion for our industry, and it was great to get his insight.

He was joined by Senator Susan McDonald, and between them, they passionately spoke of the importance of the industry not just to Queensland, but all of Australia. They also ardently opposed the Queensland government’s coal mining royalty taxes, which have had a significant impact on the industry in recent times.

Finally, they were joined by Mark Gresswell, Director of Commodity

AO: As the host of the coal industry event, what was your personal highlight from the evening?

GW: It was great to see all the guests on the night thoroughly engaged in the panel discussion with plenty of questions. There are actually a lot of great people in our industry, and if we can get together more, we can represent our industry better as a whole.

miningpro.com.au APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 21

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world APAC OUTLOOK is a digital product aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers across a wide range of industries on the continent.

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SHINE+ DRINK FOOD & BEVERAGE

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Issue 64

WALKINSHAW GROUP

Naturally Brightening Your Day

Driving in the DNA

Jonny Harrison, recently appointed CEO of Shine+ Drink, promotes the cognitive benefits of a health-boosting beverage and shares his plans to accelerate the brand’s growth

MARTINUS

Creating nextgeneration railways

Writer: Rachel Carr

E Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+ Drink, promotes the cognitive benefits of a health-boosting beverage and shares his plans to accelerate the brand’s growth

nergy drinks are a highly lucrative segment of the food and beverage sector.

They were first introduced to the public in 1949 but did not become popular until 1997. The choice of energy drinks in the market has multiplied since business started booming, with certain brands now using natural ingredients to create a healthier and more nutritious product.

One such brand is Shine+ Drink (Shine+), a progressive beverage company based in Manly, Australia, whose primary offering is a nootropic energy drink that serves 12 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

as a mental energiser without any added sugars, artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners. The unique product line was developed and launched in 2016, sending the company on a remarkable journey.

“As a brand, we aim to cater to a broad spectrum of customers who value mental acuity and physical well-being — anyone in need of a ‘brain boost’ combined with refreshment,” introduces Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+ Drink.

The brand promotes natural ingredients, such as nootropic herbs, as they are safer than synthetic ones and have fewer adverse side effects.

FEEL LIKE NEW WITH NOOTROPICS The term nootropics refers to substances that increase mental performance, improve cognitive function, and generally enable the consumer to “think, feel, and do better”.

“Some advantages include reducing fatigue, optimising brain function, and boosting motivation and creativity.

Natural nootropic herbs have a long history of use in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine,” Harrison informs us.

Nootropic compounds are divided into two categories: those that have a powerful direct effect on neurotransmitter levels, and those that primarily support

mental function by influencing brain health factors.

The benefits of natural nootropics include the growth of new brain cells, myelination, protection against oxidative stress, and reduced inflammation of brain tissue.

“Our founders started experimenting to avoid sugar crashes and harmful ingredients. They came across natural nootropics, and Shine+ was born!” reveals Harrison.

A N E N E R GY D R I N K W I T H A D I F F E R E N C E

AN ENERGY FOR GROWTH Today, Shine+ is available in over 7,000 retailers across Australia, including major outlets such as Woolworths, APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 13

Andreas Foerster, General Manager, tells us how BBS Automation’s forward-thinking automated assembly and testing systems are providing cutting-edge solutions

www.apacoutlookmag.com/work-with-us

H A R DW I R E D AU TO M OT I V E

PA S S I O N

N

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

Utilising its first-class expertise, Walkinshaw Group is a global leader in the design, engineering, development, and marketing of performance vehicles, with significant motorsport interests in Australia and the UK. We learn more with CEO, Ryan Walkinshaw Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold

I think the biggest misconception about the Australian manufacturing industry in 2023 is that it doesn’t exist, which is simply incorrect.”

The defiant opening statement from Ryan Walkinshaw, CEO of Walkinshaw Group (Walkinshaw), perfectly encapsulates the prominent standing of the company, as it has worked tirelessly to become Australia’s biggest automotive manufacturer and second-largest caravan manufacturer.

More broadly, it also highlights the often-underrated strength of the nation’s vast manufacturing industry.

“A huge portion of what we manufacture internally or source through our range of suppliers is made in Australia,” he affirms.

Growing up at racetracks around the world meant that an incredibly strong connection with the automotive and racing industry was forged for Ryan at an early age.

“Racing and the process of creating automobiles has always been a great passion of mine. When my father passed away in 2010, I took over the business in Australia at the ripe age of 22 years old, and here we are today, 13 years later.”

Today, Walkinshaw is headquartered in Clayton, Victoria, producing over 12,000 vehicles per year.

The business encompasses five key areas: Walkinshaw Automotive Group, the automotive manufacturing arm, which also offers manufacturing and engineering options outside of the automotive industry; Walkinshaw Performance, which deals with the company’s high-performance products; New Age Caravans, the second largest caravan business in Australia; Walkinshaw Sports, a key golf and sporting goods distribution company that works with some of the biggest brands in the industry; and finally, the company’s racing team, Walkinshaw Andretti United, who competes in the top level of Australian motorsport, the Supercars Championship.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 25

HISTORY OF SHAMIC SHEETMETAL Shamic Sheetmetal (Aust) Pty Ltd commenced operations in 1978 as a fully Australian-owned and managed small family business, manufacturing sheet metal products.

Under the leadership of Managing Director, Eric Woodgate, the company quickly gained a reputation for manufacturing high-precision and high-quality sheet metal bracketry and parts for a range of customers, from small producers to large national and multinational companies in various sectors including automotive, telecommunications, racking, rolling stock, industrial lighting, electrical cabinets, and much more.

In 1985, we began manufacturing wood heaters. We acquired the rights to a range of well-known heater brands between 1998 and 2001. Gas heaters were added to the range in 2001.

In 1998, the company moved to larger, purpose built premises in Croydon South, Victoria, and since that time has developed into a modern, computerised sheet metal and home heating manufacturing and warehousing facility.

We now manufacture and distribute the full range of HeatCharm, Arrow and Coonara wood and gas heaters in all states through a network of over 150 distributors.

WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY Shamic Sheetmetal (Aust) Pty Ltd is an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of specialised sheet metal components and products for leading businesses around the country, a noteworthy case being Shamic Sheetmetal’s long-standing relationship with Walkinshaw Group across 25 years of manufacturing automotive components for their range of vehicles.

inbuilt and freestanding gas log fires which have a 4.6 to 5.1 energy star rating.

Our heating products are available through a national network of over 150 authorised retailer stores. Our commitment to quality, research, design and the latest production innovations across sheet metal and heating products has seen Shamic Sheetmetal (Aust) Pty Ltd sustain its growth and development. We have been listed as a TOP 500 Victorian private company and we take pride in being an Australian-owned and managed company using state-of- the-art automated machinery to produce top-class quality steel components at globally competitive price points.

Our clients benefit from having a highly automated, local manufacturing partner and supplier with the experience to understand their needs and flexibility to meet specific requirements and make timely changes, as required.

We utilise the latest advances in integrated design and manufacturing technology across our manufacturing services that include CAD design, automated CNC punch and laser cutting, automated NC folding, robotic and manual welding, paint and powder coating, modern warehousing and despatching functions.

As well as being a world-leader in sheet metal manufacturing, Shamic Sheetmetal is a market leader in wood and gas home heating and we offer an unparalleled range of stylish heaters in colours to suit any decor and home heating requirement.

Our industry certified indoor gas heaters offer up to a 5- star energy rating with powerful heat output and our wood heaters are fully tested to Australian standards for power output, efficiency, and emissions.

Along with the Hermitage, Mystique, and Chateau, our recent innovations include the Mosman and Yarra linear gas heater, and Royal

sales@shamic.com.au | shamic.com

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

Ryan Walkinshaw, CEO (back row, second from right) with the Walkinshaw team

In total, Walkinshaw employs over 1,200 people across the entire group, which continues to grow year-onyear.

“Without oversimplifying it, our people and our legacy continue to set us apart,” acclaims Ryan.

“We have a fantastic mix of experience in our business, some of our employees have spent decades here, and others have experience in the broader industry, whilst we also have the strength of youth coming through,” he sets out.

WALKINSHAW’S WORLD-CLASS VALIDATION Australian driving conditions are widely recognised by many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as some of the toughest in the world.

To directly counter the harsh terrain, Walkinshaw has developed the world’s best practice automotive design validation (ADV) procedures that deliver ultimate durability and reliability to its customers.

The company’s ADV plans are developed to ensure the simulated, physical component level, and vehicle level testing is strategically timed to ensure that learnings are carried into subsequent phases of development.

Walkinshaw’s full vehicle level testing facilities are state-of-the-art, with its in-house structures lab housing a full vehicle shaker rig.

MOTORING TO SUCCESS Walkinshaw’s automotive business has rapidly evolved in recent memory, as the company is successfully becoming a highly diverse operation 28 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

This shaker rig can be used for vibration testing of individual components all the way up to sub-assemblies and the full vehicle, to ensure that products are at the correct standards of endurance and safety.

Creating a Home Away From Home Designed for your next adventure

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

1,000th Chevrolet Camaro built

“WHEN HOLDEN CLOSED, THE EASY THING F O R U S T O D O W O U L D H AV E B E E N T O F O L L O W S U I T A N D T U R N T H E L I G H T S O F F, B U T I N S T E A D , O U R H U G E LY TA L E N T E D A N D T E N AC I O U S WO R K FO R C E H AS R E I N V E N T E D W H AT W E D O ” – R YA N WA L K I N S H AW, C E O , WA L K I N S H AW G R O U P Ryan Walkinshaw, CEO

that works with a range of OEMs around the globe.

The company was built off the back of Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), working with a single OEM in Holden, creating its core range of aspirational, high-performance vehicles.

“When Holden closed, the easy thing for us to do would have been to follow suit and turn the lights off, but instead, our hugely talented and tenacious workforce has reinvented what we do,” recalls Ryan proudly.

On the automotive front, the 30 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

company is currently working with five OEMs, including General Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen, with more to come in the future, as well as operating across a number of industries and projects that Walkinshaw never would have considered possible five years ago.

This progression has not only reinvented what the company does, but it has simultaneously helped Walkinshaw to truly thrive within the industry. This reinvention was kickstarted through the remanufacturing of large American trucks, from

left-hand drive to right-hand drive, with the company subsequently expanding much further.

“For context, in the largest HSV production year in 2008, we produced just under 5,000 units with 450 staff. Last year alone, we did over 12,000 units amongst our 1,200 staff, with projections indicating that number will again rise by the end of this year,” he shares.

In this way, the company continues to bring exciting products to market, which is core to Walkinshaw’s central beliefs and values.

MASTERS IN MANUFACTURING Walkinshaw’s business has now successfully pivoted to a contract manufacturing and engineering company for multiple customers.

“We can apply our whole organisation’s expertise and experience to help deliver first-class results for our customers, as is evident most recently with our success and growth in the full-size truck market,” Ryan tells us.

“We look forward to helping our customers continue to grow, and to further invest in our community by providing more employment opportunities,” he adds.

Over the years, this has diversified into the realms of off-road vehicles, performance light commercial vehicles, full-size commercial vehicle remanufacturing, and caravans.

Now, the company’s expert team 32 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ W I T H O U T O V E R S I M P L I F Y I N G I T, O U R P E O P L E A N D O U R L E G ACY CO N T I N U E TO S E T U S A PA R T ” – R YA N WA L K I N S H AW, C E O , WA L K I N S H AW G R O U P

of 65 across engineering, computeraided design (CAD), and fabrication also support external services. These services cover, but are not limited to, simulated structural testing utilising finite element analysis (FEA), structural component testing in the fully-equipped structures lab, and ground-up design, development, and validation of all automotive components across mechanical, electrical, and software systems.

“We have a core group of experts who specialise in all disciplines across the automotive component

spectrum. Their experience brings innovative solutions to complex problems and a ‘never say die’ attitude when tasked to deliver on tight deadlines.”

At present, Walkinshaw’s expertise in design, simulated testing, and physical testing for the world’s best practices is unmatched in the southern hemisphere.

“The company’s engineers share a passion for automotive engineering.

They love what they do, and it shines through in every faction of their work,” Ryan enthuses.

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

Empowering Australian manufacturers since 1984.

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PROUDLY SUPPORTING LOCAL MANUFACTURING. NAPA Auto Parts provides a comprehensive range of automotive aftermarket products for all types of vehicles, to keep your workshop moving.

For more information visit napaparts.com.au

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 33

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

From left to right: Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, Michael Andretti and Ryan Walkinshaw

“ W E W E R E T H E FA C T O R Y H O L D E N R A C I N G T E A M F R O M 1 9 9 0 R I G H T T H R O U G H TO 2 0 1 6 , B U T M U C H L I K E T H E AU TO M OT I V E B U S I N E S S , W E H A D T O R E T H I N K H O W W E O P E R AT E D W H E N HOLDEN CLOSED” – R YA N WA L K I N S H AW, C E O , WA L K I N S H AW G R O U P

STRONG RACING PEDIGREE What is now an esteemed racing history in Australia started when Ryan’s father came to race in Bathurst, New South Wales (NSW) with his TWR Jaguar XJS, and he loved the place so much that the company has been present there ever since.

Furthermore, racing is in the very DNA of Walkinshaw as a business.

“We were the factory Holden Racing Team from 1990 right through to 2016, but much like the automotive 34 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

business, we had to rethink how we operated when Holden closed,” Ryan recollects.

“Of course, we could have packed up the team and moved away from racing, but that’s not what we do.”

In 2018, Walkinshaw Andretti United was born, combining Walkinshaw Racing, Andretti Autosport through Michael Andretti, and United Autosports through Zak Brown.

Racing relates closely to each company and reflects everything that

Walkinshaw does, encompassing innovation, technology, and high performance. To date, Walkinshaw Andretti United has had eight Bathurst 1,000 wins and eight Supercars Championship drivers’ titles across its storied history.

With nearly three decades of experience and a wide range of in-house capabilities and expertise, the company’s racing business can provide its clients with exactly what is required to compete and win.

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

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WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

Walkinshaw’s initial venture into the vast sports business started out in golf product distribution, and has grown rapidly. Having worked with some of the biggest and most recognisable brands in the world, while additionally manufacturing bespoke products such as golf buggies and balls, the company is now expanding into other sporting sectors.

“Our roots as a company are in high-performance, which applies perfectly across these industries,” Ryan affirms.

THREE ICONIC ORGANISATIONS The three organisations that bring together Walkinshaw Andretti United cover the entire globe, with Walkinshaw Racing based in Australia, Andretti Autosport in the US, and United Autosports in Europe.

The diverse pedigree they all bring is unrivalled in Australia. From Bathurst 1000 and Indy 500 wins to Supercars Championship and Global Rallycross titles, their respective motorsport résumés are more than impressive.

Now, they have combined to tackle

Australia and take on the mission of supercars.

The announcement unveiling Walkinshaw Andretti United took place at the most iconic circuit in Australia, Bathurst, on the eve of the biggest race of the 2017 season, the Bathurst 1000.

“This exciting announcement sent chins wagging, as fans around the globe pondered what these three teams could potentially achieve together,” Ryan comments.

Naturally, it didn’t take long for the

WALKINSHAW GROUP MANUFACTURING

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first win to be achieved through Scott Pye’s famous victory at the Australian Grand Prix, with five further podiums coming in the first season.

“This partnership is not only beneficial on the track, but off it as well.

Andretti Autosport brings a wealth of technical knowledge and experience across a broad range of categories and cars, while Zak Brown, the co-owner of United Autosports alongside Richard Dean, is also the CEO of the McLaren Formula 1 team,” he continues.

Brown is now universally regarded as one of, if not the, best commercial operators in motorsport.

DESIGNED TO PERFECTION Elsewhere within the company, Walkinshaw Design has a rich history of delivering world-class, niche products and always strives to transform its clients’ visions into reality.

“We put our customers at the centre of our design process, collaborating with our clients to

A specialist manufacturer of fluid carrying products.

Our range includes brake, AC, water, air, oil and fuel pipe assemblies. We are a complete systems supplier with CAD, engineering, prototyping and production capabilities.

create uniquely tailored products that can enhance their brand and create genuine excitement in the marketplace,” Ryan reveals.

Walkinshaw Design is where the company’s creativity and its customers’ vision meet. It’s about realising dreams and aspirations as Walkinshaw is highly passionate and experienced in delivering world-class solutions to individual and specifically tailored briefs.

“We have full design studio capabilities including theme sketch development, clay modelling, full size or scale milling, 3D Alias surfacing, scanning, and scale vehicle modelling for assessment or aero testing.”

Alongside this, Walkinshaw offers broad capabilities in the styling and design of exterior surfaces and components including fascias, lighting, sheet metal, trim or fibreglass parts, wheels, and spoilers. Another key competency is the company’s ability to develop designs from 2D

concepts through to clay models, CAD, 3D print, and finally, tooling.

Furthermore, Walkinshaw is highly experienced in interior material and trim standards. To date, the company has expertly designed, engineered, and manufactured numerous different interior parts including IP, consoles, binnacle gauges, seat trims and foams, electronic systems, and ornamentation.

To date, the company has been involved in some incredible products and moments across its journey, but now finds itself in an exhilarating new chapter which is equally exciting for everyone involved and promises to keep delivering success far into the future.

www.walkinshawperformance.co.uk APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 37

S U S TA I N I N G CUTTING-EDGE SOLUTIONS BBS Automation’s forward-thinking automated assembly and testing systems are providing cutting-edge solutions, as Andreas Foerster, General Manager for Southeast Asia, tells us Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Poppi Burke 38 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

BBS AUTOMATION MANUFACTURING

talent readiness is relatively high, and demand for Industry 4.0 solutions is steadily increasing.

“Everyone is striving to achieve or implement Industry 4.0, and there are several impressive success stories related to these initiatives in Southeast Asia,” notes Andreas Foerster, General Manager for Southeast Asia at BBS Automation (BBS).

However, like any industry, there are challenges to overcome, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and increasing competition.

“Nevertheless, I believe the manufacturing industry in Southeast Asia offers exciting prospects for those willing to navigate this dynamic landscape,” says Foerster, who holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in professional technical management.

GLOBAL FOOTPRINT

S

etting up manufacturing plants in Southeast Asia was once driven by lower labour and operational costs.

However, the region’s growing manufacturing industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation, with Southeast Asian governments actively competing to invest in infrastructure development and technology adoption to improve the overall business environment.

In Malaysia specifically, facilities are well-established, most of the population is proficient in English,

BBS caters to major manufacturing players across a variety of sectors, including automotive, electronics, life sciences, renewable energy, energy storage, consumable parts, and the optical industry.

Since the 31st of August 2023, BBS has been part of the Dürr Group, a global capital goods company headquartered in Germany. The core competencies of BBS and its 2,700 employees include assembly and testing solutions, software development, testing systems, winding technology, foundry automation, and build-toprint projects.

“In Penang, we have a 35-year history of specialising in design-build systems and build-to-print projects,” Foerster informs us.

“Additionally, we have a dedicated department specialising in niche and precise leak testing using helium.”

Penang, often dubbed the Silicon Valley of the East, has been home to BBS’ Malaysian manufacturing plant since 1988, complementing the company’s German headquarters and

worldwide network of 23 locations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America.

This extensive global footprint makes BBS stand out as one of the leading players in automation with a vast network of sites worldwide.

The cooperation between these global locations contributes to a more comprehensive project portfolio, especially for international projects in a wide range of industries.

“Our teams work cohesively and collaboratively, ensuring efficient communication and cooperation across all locations,” states Foerster.

As a result, BBS is well equipped to provide exceptional support and service, especially to customers with a global presence, with dedicated design engineers, skilled software developers, and builders at every site.

BBS follows a lean management system, facilitating close interaction between General Managers such as Foerster and CEO, Josef Wildgruber, a streamlined approach that allows for effective and efficient decision-making.

“From our German headquarters, we maintain a centralised technical team that provides crucial support to every plant, ensuring a consistent and high level of technical expertise across the organisation,” he outlines.

CUSTOMISATION TO MEET UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS As a customised equipment manufacturer and a solutions provider across various industries, every project is naturally fascinating to BBS and comes with a unique set of challenges.

It all begins with a deep understanding of the customer’s product, processes, and specific requirements. A dedicated team collaborates closely with the customer to precisely define specifications, immerse themselves in the customer’s standards, and develop the most suitable concept.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 39

APAC OUTLOOK: CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR CAREER PATH TO DATE? BBS Automation’s manufacturing plant in Penang

Andreas Foerster, General Manager for Southeast Asia: “My career journey has been driven by my passion for cutting-edge

When it comes to project execution, BBS’ project management, engineering, and procurement teams work hand-in-hand to address critical issues, manage risks, and adapt to changes, ensuring the successful delivery of each project.

“In the automotive sector, for instance, we offer an extensive array of automated assembly and testing solutions for keyless entry systems, steering switch panels, electrical oil pumps, DCUs and ECUs, speedometers, car seats and tracks, condensers, radiators, and much more,” details Foerster.

In build-to-print, BBS has successfully manufactured over 20 testing chambers for radar systems deployed worldwide, established multiple assembly and testing lines for heavy-duty industrial fans, and crafted specialised dip coater machines utilised in the medical sector.

“If I were to speak about one standout project, it would be the 40 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

technology. It all started when I began as a mechanical technician in Germany with a well-known mechatronic systems manufacturer.

“As I progressed, I transitioned into a process and quality engineer, which brought me closer to the world of machines and equipment. My career then took a significant turn when I moved into procurement, allowing me to combine my technical knowledge with a deep understanding of the business side of operations.

“After several years, I made the deliberate choice to transition into the equipment manufacturing field because I discovered that delivering the right customised solutions to customers is a rapidly evolving market that continually presents new challenges. This was a pivotal moment in my career as it allowed me to take on a leadership role in the automation industry, which I’ve found incredibly exciting and fulfilling.”

automotive sensor production line with a three-second cycle time per part,” Foerster highlights.

“We are constructing more than 10 lines for this project, spanning multiple locations across Asia, Europe, and North America. The equipment

we’ve designed and built for this project is estimated to produce a staggering 80 million parts annually.”

As a systems integrator, establishing strategic collaborations with industry leaders is of utmost importance to ensure top-notch

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APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 41

BBS AUTOMATION MANUFACTURING

quality and precise control.

For example, BBS has cultivated a strategic partnership with Kistler, streamlining the integration of an electromechanical system into their servo press operations, harnessing the benefits of a well-proven monitoring system, and further bolstering their commitment to exceptional quality and performance.

EV REVOLUTION One area that particularly excites the company is its involvement in development and innovation within the electric vehicle (EV) sector.

“We are excited about the transformation of components used in EVs and eagerly anticipate playing a role in this revolution,” Foerster tells us.

BBS has implemented several EV solutions globally and is capable of providing a wide range of EV components.

In Penang, BBS also offers leak testing solutions for various EV products, such as battery trays and coolers, from its manufacturing plant.

EXCITING INNOVATIONS As new technologies continue to emerge, increasingly innovative consumer products are being introduced to the market.

Everyday items such as hair dryers, shavers, and various electronic devices each require specialised assembly and testing solutions.

“We stand ready to collaborate with our customers and are always ready to contribute to these exciting innovations,” says Foerster.

As an example, having specialised in manufacturing equipment for the optical industry, including applications for medical glasses, contact lenses, and standard eyewear over the years, BBS has recently extended its expertise to participate in an R&D project for virtual reality (VR) glasses.

Another avenue in the pipeline 42 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ W E ’ R E A LWAY S O N T H E L O O K O U T F O R I N N O VAT I O N S A N D A C T I V E LY S U P P O R T P R O D U C T D E V E L O P M E N T, P A R T I C U L A R LY I N T H E E V E R - E V O LV I N G T E C H N O L O G Y M A R K E T. S TAY I N G AT T H E F O R E F R O N T O F T E C H N O LO GY A N D T R E N DS CO N T I N U E S TO F U E L O U R PA S S I O N A N D C O M M I T M E N T TO I N N O VAT I O N ” – A N D R E AS FO E R ST E R , G E N E R A L M A N AG E R FO R S O U T H E AST A S I A , B B S A U T O M AT I O N

that has gained BBS’ interest is the expansion of its engagement in medical projects with the acquisition of Italy-based Kahle Automation, having actively contributed solutions for high-speed needle assembly, insulin pumps, and medical sensors.

Medical products are now undergoing a remarkable phase of innovation and experiencing a surge in the development of new items, including various types of sensors, devices, and components.

“We look forward to offering comprehensive solutions in this dynamic and evolving field,” Foerster shares.

“We’re always on the lookout for innovations and actively support product development, particularly in the ever-evolving technology market.

Staying at the forefront of technology and trends continues to fuel our passion and commitment to innovation.”

PROCUREMENT STRATEGY BBS’ global procurement strategy focuses on sourcing components and services globally to optimise quality and cost-efficiency.

As such, the company views its suppliers as partners because its ultimate goal is to develop the right solutions.

“Without the right partners and their solutions, we can’t guarantee the success of our projects,” emphasises Foerster.

As a systems integrator, it is crucial that BBS works closely with its global suppliers, especially for components, as delays in delivery can likewise lead to project delays.

For instance, in a recent project working with Omron, BBS deployed a total solution equipped with multiple stations and robotic arms.

BBS’ success in this venture hinged on the prompt support and close cooperation it received from Omron, for which the company is sincerely grateful.

“Building strong relationships with our suppliers is vital to our success. We’ve developed several cooperation strategies with them, understanding that the quality of products is paramount,” Foerster affirms.

Indeed, whilst cost management

is important, BBS prioritises quality as, in the long run, a lower-cost product can be unreliable and result in malfunctions that ultimately incur higher costs and resource consumption.

Equally, collaborating with suppliers for innovative solutions also keeps BBS at the forefront of automation technology.

“This commitment to innovation drives our ongoing success.”

SYNERGY OF SKILLS From suppliers to employees, teamwork is at the core of solutions providers such as BBS and plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of projects.

With everyone bringing their own unique expertise, the synergy of these skills leads to the successful completion of projects.

From a leadership perspective, it is about showing respect and compassion as BBS strives to create

a working environment that offers stability and growth opportunities for staff.

“Empowering our team members is not just a philosophy; it’s a practice,” states Foerster.

“We believe in working hard and having fun together. We regularly organise events that bring our employees together. Whether it’s a barbecue, traditional food preparation, or exciting activities, we create opportunities for our team to bond beyond the confines of work.

“Sometimes, we surprise them with food trucks, ice cream, or doughnuts – simple gestures that create a strong foundation for team unity,” he adds.

BBS intends to build strong foundations of trust and camaraderie within the team by valuing relationships that go beyond work-related interactions and creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 43

BBS AUTOMATION MANUFACTURING

In a world of customised equipment where flexibility is key, BBS also encourages its team members to embrace challenges and solve problems with courage, critical thinking, and creativity.

“It’s inspiring to see the team take ownership, dedicate themselves, and contribute in unique ways to turn the seemingly impossible into reality,” Foerster admires.

“Together, we face challenges head-on, guided by a mindset focused on unity and achieving successful project outcomes.”

People are, therefore, the backbone of success at BBS, who takes great pride in empowering and recognising their invaluable contributions.

Malaysia’s multicultural environment is also something that BBS values highly by celebrating major ethnic holidays and conducting activities that promote each culture, with the goal of fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels appreciated and cherished.

POSITIVE IMPACT In addition, BBS is very particular about its safety regulations, aiming to create a safe workplace for staff.

A dedicated team regularly reviews and implements the company’s safety standards, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements when entering the production area.

BBS is also an organisation that takes corporate social responsibility

(CSR) seriously, as evidenced by its Penang plant in Malaysia which is an environmental pioneer in the region.

The company invested in solar panels more than 15 years ago at a time when environmental issues were not discussed as urgently as they justifiably are today. These panels generate around 30 percent of the electricity at the facility and demonstrate the value that BBS places on the sustainable development of its business activities.

“The solar panels were originally a customer project. We had the chance to work closely with them to develop a complete solution for solar panel assembly and testing lines, and the panels on our roof were produced by our own equipment. We were one

of the pioneers of solar energy solutions at the time,” reveals Foerster.

In recent years, the company has increased its efforts to give back to the community, having participated in volunteering programmes such as food fairs for the blind and blood donation drives.

The enthusiastic response from team members has been heartening, and BBS is eager to engage in more impactful activities.

“These experiences have enriched us and deepened our connection with our community.

I believe our commitment to CSR extends beyond our business operations; it’s a reflection of our values and our dedication to

making a positive impact on the world around us.”

DEDICATION TO STATE-OF-THEART TECHNOLOGY Foerster is optimistic about the company’s future, as the recent acquisition and future integration into the Dürr Group has significantly increased BBS’ size and expertise, enabling it to better meet the evolving needs of its customers.

The company is currently in the process of developing a machine optimisation programme that will enhance the efficiency and productivity of BBS’ equipment, resulting in reduced operational input, lower energy consumption, and cost savings.

Staying ahead of trends such as Industry 4.0 is another future priority for BBS, emphasising the interconnectivity of equipment and the pivotal role of monitoring devices to achieve this.

“We work closely with partners like IFM, leveraging their various sensors and systems to monitor different machine components and facilitate

communication between hardware, making Industry 4.0 a reality,” concludes Foerster.

Nevertheless, to stay at the forefront of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, utilising AI is also a key factor.

In fact, some of the company’s solutions already incorporate smart manufacturing systems with deep learning and AI control logic, showcasing BBS’ commitment to advanced technology integration as it strives to strengthen its capabilities in this area.

There will undoubtedly be challenges in the global landscape, however, Foerster has great confidence that the innovative spirit and commitment of BBS to delivering quality solutions will allow it to excel in the future.

Tel: +49 89 8560 7354-0 info@bbsautomation.com www.bbsautomation.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 45

PWR ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING

HIGHPERFORMANCE COOLING When it comes to thermal management, PWR Advanced Cooling Technology is a world leader.

Andi Scott, General Manager of Advanced Technology, highlights the company’s cooling solutions in the automotive, aerospace and defence sectors Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Kierron Rose

F

or three decades, the Weel family have been deeply involved in manufacturing products to serve the automotive cooling industry.

PWR Advanced Cooling Technology (PWR) was founded in 1997 by Kees Weel and his son Paul, to fulfil the growing demand for highquality, lightweight, performance aluminium cooling products.

“The market was ready for a product that was measured by its performance and backed up by a flexible manufacturing facility capable of designing and adapting cooler configurations to custom specifications,” opens PWR’s General Manager of Advanced Technology, Andi Scott.

46 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Andi Scott, General Manager of Advanced Technology

With Kees still heavily involved in the business as CEO, PWR services many different sectors and has grown to become the technical partner of choice for leading motorsport teams, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and aerospace and defence customers around the world.

“You will find PWR’s product range across motorsport categories including Formula 1 (F1), NASCAR, IndyCar, the World Endurance Championship, the World Rally Championship, MotoGP, motocross, and off-road racing,” Scott tells us.

“In the OEM space, we supply many renowned brands such as Aston Martin, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Bugatti, Koenigsegg, Ford, McLaren, and Pagani,” he adds.

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APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 47

PWR ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING

PWR set up its new aerospace and defence division less than three years ago, and it has already achieved significant success in a short space of time.

This is best seen in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft market, where engines are being replaced by heavy battery packs.

Initially, the additional mass of battery packs for any significant flight time would stop the aircraft from generating enough lift to get off the ground.

This caused a rethink of the technology used for this purpose, not only for the batteries but also for lightweight thermal management systems.

APAC OUTLOOK: DO YOU PARTAKE IN ANY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PRACTICES? Andi Scott, General Manager of Advanced Technology: “PWR has a developed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) roadmap in support of our environmental and social impacts.

“We actively promote a circular economy for our waste aluminium materials and are in the process of reviewing all packaging to assess recycling opportunities at each of our global sites.”

WORLDWIDE PRESENCE PWR’s headquarters in Queensland, Australia, and additional manufacturing sites in Indianapolis (US) and Rugby (UK), are vertically integrated to complete all processes from raw material acceptance to the finished deliverable product.

Now publicly listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX), PWR currently has a global complement of over 500 staff, 350 of which are located in Australia, 130 in the US, and 40 in the UK.

PWR facility

48 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

The company also has a range of valuable certifications, holding AS9100, ISO9001, IATF16949, ISO14001, and NADCAP accreditations across its three manufacturing sites, and takes great pride in seeing its products exported around the world.

For example, PWR has enjoyed healthy growth in defence material exports to the US market, ranging

from cooling components for highpower electronics systems used in ruggedised avionics and radar systems, through to large thermal solutions used in heavy land vehicles.

“It is quite easy for other countries to think Australia is too far away to get anything designed or manufactured, but I certainly think PWR is a great example of breaking that thought process as we export over 85 percent of the products we manufacture in Australia to the rest of the world,” acclaims Scott.

“Australia is a quiet overachiever, in my opinion, when it comes to manufacturing. The skillsets and capabilities I have witnessed across multiple businesses in our network have shown time and again that Australia can and does manufacture world-class parts, often in combination with a refreshing can-do attitude.”

VARIETY OF TECHNOLOGIES There are many fantastic companies around the world providing novel and efficient cooling solutions, which provides healthy competition for PWR.

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“ O V E R M A N Y Y E A R S , P W R H A S B U I LT A T R U S T E D N E T W O R K O F S U P P L I E R S F O R VA R I O U S A S P E C T S O F O U R O P E R AT I O N S , AND WE HOPE THEY GROW WITH US” – A N D I S C O T T, G E N E R A L M A N A G E R O F A D VA N C E D T E C H N O L O G Y, P W R A D VA N C E D C O O L I N G T E C H N O L O G Y

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 49

PWR ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING

The main attribute that sets the company on a different trajectory is the fact that it is not limited to one technology or manufacturing method.

Instead, PWR’s approach is that of an R&D division, investing in and utilising a wide variety of new and existing technologies to broaden its manufacturing capabilities and generate valuable IP. “We are able to look at a complete thermal problem with our eyes wide open and choose the best matching manufacturing methods for individual components of the thermal system, to best meet or surpass our customers’ needs,” Scott outlines.

“Other companies may focus on one technology or manufacturing method, and consequently they are forced to develop a solution within

the limitations of that equipment or technology.”

PWR continuously strives to improve in all areas of thermal systems design, manufacturing, and validation to keep ahead and match new customer platform needs.

Proof of this is seen in PWR’s internal simulation and wind tunnel calorimeter facility. Using both empirical test data and predictive methods, the company has been able to create its own software to help guide the best technology and solution required for every aspect of the system.

In addition, PWR is able to use this predictive data to test products in a simulated environment before manufacturing prototypes.

“The software prediction is then

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validated by physical testing of the actual product once complete, therefore closing the loop on our predictive information to continuously improve our process,” states Scott.

AUTOMOTIVE PERFORMANCE Current F1 cars are a fantastic feat of engineering, generating over 1,000 horsepower from a 1.6 litre turbocharged internal combustion engine (ICE).

F1 cars also benefit from hybrid power, which is harvested through an energy recovery system during braking.

This complexity means a typical F1 car will have cooling systems for the engine water, engine oil, intercooler, energy store, hydraulics, gearbox, and electronics.

PWR engages with its customers to support their needs for a bespoke holistic cooling system; as with any sport, there are various requirements from customers to achieve the best possible performance.

“This means we are always faced with different thermal conditions, loads, and geometry constraints,” explains Scott.

“We specialise in these freeform geometry heat exchangers, which all make efficient use of the available space inside the complex aerodynamic shapes of the modernday F1 car.”

The company has also just completed a series production run in which cooling systems were delivered directly to Ford’s production line in the US for use in a new variation of the Mustang GT. The bespoke cooling system used in the Aston Martin Valkyrie road car, meanwhile, is also currently in production.

“I had the pleasure of working on this project before I emigrated to Australia, whilst I was still at Red Bull Racing. The car was designed by Adrian Newey, and I was lucky enough to be part of a small team working

on the Valkyrie as it came to fruition,” Scott reveals.

“After moving to Australia, I then had a second opportunity to support the Valkyrie project, this time from PWR’s side, where we designed the complete cooling system to meet the demands of the engine and drivetrain.

All the while, PWR is continually growing its global manufacturing footprint, capabilities, and customer base.

With all the various propulsion systems, such as ICEs, turbine engines, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cells, there is one common factor – they all have considerable thermal management to contend with.

“As power density increases, the ability to remove heat from engines, motors, fuel cells, inverters, and graphical processors becomes more

challenging, and therefore provides the opportunity for PWR to continue its journey.”

THE DRIVING FORCE As people are the driving force that allows PWR to be as successful as it is, the company works hard to train, support, and retain its staff.

PWR is focused on its people and ensures they have access to learning and development opportunities.

“We have various apprenticeships and graduate programmes to help expose our staff to the various departments and create a pathway for progression,” Scott says.

PWR has many trusted suppliers that are also key to its success and likewise need to be reactive in order to keep up with customer needs.

“Over many years, PWR has built a trusted network of suppliers for various aspects of our operations, and we hope they grow with us.”

Equally, PWR wants to continue to focus on sensible and sustainable growth, to ensure the brand continues to expand for decades to come.

PWR ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGY Tel: +61 (0)7 5547 1600 info@pwr.com.au www.pwr.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 51

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R E S O U R C E S

T R I T O N P O W E R | T O LY G R O U P

IPT POWERTECH GROUP / SIPH

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V I T R I N I T E

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PORT OF NEW BEDFORD Welcoming exciting new ventures and conserving traditional industries

WALKINSHAW GROUP

TURNER CONSTRUCTION Transforming the lives of customers and employees

NORTEK GLOBAL HVAC Accessible heating and cooling for all

PARABELLUM INTERNATIONAL

ONECARE MEDICAL

Issue 19

www. n orth am e ri c aou tl ook m ag .com

A M B U L A N C E

Emergency response and medical services to the resources, defence and government sectors

Advancing Australian mining

The convenient choice for primary healthcare services in Singapore

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www.mining-outlook.com • Issue 3

NDALAMO RESOURCES Investment opportunities in South African mining

Driving in the DNA

DAIRY GROUP SOUTH AFRICA Aligning with farmers and partners

KESTREL COAL RESOURCES

MARTINUS

Creating nextgeneration railways

VIRUNGA ENERGIES

Hydroelectricity illuminates opportunities

Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+ Drink, promotes the cognitive benefits of a health-boosting beverage and shares his plans to accelerate the brand’s growth

Andreas Foerster, General Manager, tells us how BBS Automation’s forward-thinking automated assembly and testing systems are providing cutting-edge solutions automated assembly and testing systems are providing cutting-edge solutions Andreas Foerster, General Manager, tells us how BBS Automation’s forward-thinking

THE FUTURE OF EMPOWERED BANKING

We revisit GO Plc and discuss the group’s continued impressive growth in Malta’s telecoms industry during the course of the past year, with CEO Nikhil Patil

Ruwacon has positioned itself at the helm of the African construction industry. Commercial Director, Reeza Seedat tells us more

C A M I L L E T H O M M E S , Director General of the Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry tells us how ALFI is helping to bolster the sector

The Concert Stuff Group is the company of choice for live events solutions. Co-Founder and CEO, Jim Brammer tells us more

Speaking to Chief Executive of QRC, Ian Macfarlane, we learn about the association’s tenacious efforts towards achieving net zero by 2050

PIERLUIGI PARACCHI, Executive Committee Member at Federchimica Assobiotec, discusses leading the industry to a sustainable and safer society

industry. Commercial Director, Reeza Seedat tells us more Ruwacon has positioned itself at the helm of the African construction

Luxembourg Fund Industry tells us how ALFI is helping to bolster the sector C A M I L L E T H O M M E S , Director General of the Association of the

solutions. Co-Founder and CEO, Jim Brammer tells us more The Concert Stuff Group is the company of choice for live events

the association’s tenacious efforts towards achieving net zero by 2050 Speaking to Chief Executive of QRC, Ian Macfarlane, we learn about

Assobiotec, discusses leading the industry to a sustainable and safer society PIERLUIGI PARACCHI, Executive Committee Member at Federchimica

BANKING OF EMPOWERED THE FUTURE

accelerate the brand’s growth beverage and shares his plans to benefits of a health-boosting Drink, promotes the cognitive Jonny Harrison, CEO of Shine+

The value-driven mining company envisioning a future for responsible resources

Strengthening the healthcare system and developing a renewed strategy to meet the needs of patients

the course of the past year, with CEO Nikhil Patil impressive growth in Malta’s telecoms industry during We revisit GO Plc and discuss the group’s continued

a renewed strategy to meet the needs of patients Strengthening the healthcare system and developing

for responsible resources company envisioning a future The value-driven mining

RESOURCES COAL KESTREL

opportunities illuminates Hydroelectricity

generation railways Creating next-

MARTINUS

GROOTE SCHUUR HOSPITAL

ENERGIES VIRUNGA

Tell us your story, and we’ll tell the world

HOSPITAL GROOTE SCHUUR

and partners Aligning with farmers

SOUTH AFRICA DAIRY GROUP

Driving in the DNA

GROUP WALKINSHAW

and cooling for all Accessible heating

and conserving traditional industries Welcoming exciting new ventures

NEW BEDFORD PORT OF

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GLOBAL HVAC NORTEK employees of customers and Transforming the lives

CONSTRUCTION TURNER

mining in South African opportunities Investment

RESOURCES NDALAMO

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in Singapore primary healthcare services The convenient choice for

ONECARE MEDICAL

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mining Australian Advancing

government sectors resources, defence and medical services to the Emergency response and

COAL COKING BOWEN

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IPT POWERTECH GROUP / SIPH

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As mining organisations worldwide confront unprecedented change, embracing technological innovations and incorporating critical environmental sustainability agendas, now more than ever is the time to showcase the strides being taken in this dynamic sector.

A multi-channel brand, Mining Outlook brings you the positive developments driven by organisations across the global mining industry through our various platforms. Discover exclusive content distributed through our website, online magazine, social media channels, and dispatches delivered straight to your inbox with a bi-weekly newsletter.

Through this compelling new venture, we foreground the movers and shakers of the industry. To participate as a featured company and join us in this exciting endeavour, contact one of our Project Managers today.

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PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

OPPORTUNITIES A N D S U S TA I N A B I L I T We explore a rare world-class mining project, which is setting the global standard in conservation and innovation, with Barry Tudor, Chairman and CEO of Pembroke Resources Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Eddie Clinton

TY

PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

E

stablished in 2014, Pembroke Resources emerged from an unusual beginning.

After assembling a group of mining executives with significant experience in the coal mining industry, the organisation received financial backing and commitment from the global private equity business, Denham Capital, before acquiring any assets.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 55

“Denham Capital effectively backed me and the team to execute a strategy we had formulated and agreed upon.

This approach has proven to be a key success factor in the implementation and development of the Olive Downs Complex,” opens Barry Tudor, Chairman and CEO of Pembroke Resources.

The Olive Downs Complex, a large-scale, world-class steelmaking coal mine in the Bowen Basin of Queensland, contains some of Australia’s largest coking coal reserves.

“I established Pembroke Resources as a metallurgical coal pure play company, and I remain convinced that steelmaking coal is an excellent commodity to invest in because there are limited reserves of high-quality coking coal available, there is no practical substitute for this type of 58 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

coal in the steelmaking process, and there won’t be for many decades.

“It’s also important to have a key understanding of the value of your product in use, and subsequently branding this product in direct interaction with end users is a key component of Pembroke Resources’ strategy,” Tudor enlightens us.

Driven by a clear vision, Pembroke Resources has evolved into a sustainable and reliable source of coking coal for the steel industry while adhering to strict environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

Indeed, operating in a manner that complies with and surpasses rigorous ecological regulations and expectations is at the core of the company’s philosophy. Moreover, it has earned and maintained the

social licence needed for responsible resource development.

SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY For Pembroke Resources, sustainability is a fundamental guiding principle that permeates all aspects of its operations. Tudor recognised the challenges associated with developing a new coal mine and saw the opportunity to showcase a fresh approach to mining that aligned with contemporary values and addressed concerns regarding the environment, carbon emissions, and social impacts.

“The importance of sustainability to Pembroke Resources lies in its vision to go beyond the minimum requirements and set new industry standards. The company’s objective is not only to achieve successful mining operations, but to do so in a manner

PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

that contributes positively to the environment, society, and the local community,” outlines Tudor.

This commitment to sustainability

is a core part of Pembroke Resources’ ethos. It shapes its decision-making process throughout the life cycle of the Olive Downs Complex, which has

BENEFITS OF THE OLIVE DOWNS COMPLEX PROJECT • REVENUE – The project has the potential to generate as much as AUD$10.2 billion in royalties for the Queensland government.

• ADVANTAGES FOR LOCAL AND REGIONAL BUSINESSES – Pembroke Resources has consciously decided to prioritise local and regional suppliers.

A promotion network has been utilised for business opportunities, including establishing the Industry Capability Network (ICN) Olive Downs Complex page.

More than 30 local businesses have engaged with the page to date.

• ADDITIONAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES – It is estimated that between 500 and 700 employment opportunities will be created during the construction of the site, with a further 300 to 500 construction jobs by 2027. Once operational, the total number of jobs at the mine will increase to 1,300 by 2033.

• INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES – Pembroke Resources has signed an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Barada Barna Aboriginal Corporation – the traditional owners of the land on which the Olive Downs Complex project will be developed. The company also has a cultural management plan to control the impacts on Aboriginal cultural heritage and to meet its duty of care obligations at the project site.

• LOCALLY-BASED EMPLOYMENT, INCLUDING A FOCUS ON GENDER EQUALITY – Pembroke Resources will develop recruitment policies and

ESG credentials ingrained in its very design and development.

The allocation of over 20,000 hectares (ha) of designated conservation areas within the Olive Downs Complex demonstrates Pembroke Resources’ dedication to preserving native fauna and ecological habitats.

“The specialised clinic for koalas and greater gliders, staffed by specialist ecologists and veterinarians, signifies the mine’s commitment to wildlife protection and conservation efforts. The innovative fauna tracking programmes, supported by wildlife experts and generating important academic research, further showcase the mine’s dedication to the preservation and study of native wildlife,” he details.

Furthermore, the 10ha solar farm and green energy project highlights the commitment of the Olive Downs Complex to sustainable energy practices, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental stewardship.

processes to attract local employees and encourage female and Indigenous

INDUSTRY INVESTMENTS

participation. Pembroke Resources has engaged with Thiess to provide full mine

In 2016, Pembroke Resources acquired the Olive Downs Complex from Peabody Energy. It perfectly

services for the project over the next five years. As such, Theiss advertises roles on public domains, focusing on local and regional areas.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 59

In the Business of Supplying the Right Engineering Solutions Firstly, please introduce us to the history of Fraser-Lever and your experience in delivering projects in Australia and overseas.

Fraser-Lever is the result of the merger of Fraser-Osborn (1985) and Lever Australia (2011) three years ago. The entity has nearly 40 years of experience delivering projects in Australia and Papua New Guinea, primarily in the resources and infrastructure sectors. Located across our Brisbane and Townsville offices, our core team of multi-disciplinary principal engineers, charted engineers and management team are dedicated to ensuring all projects are delivered to client satisfaction and best practices for quality, safety, and the environment. Supporting our principals is an experienced multi-discipline team of professionals.

How has the Olive Downs Complex showcased FraserLever’s capabilities?

Fraser-Lever has been involved in the Olive Downs Complex in several different ways:

Surface infrastructure Our next involvement with the Olive Downs Complex was the surface infrastructure package, which included all the roads, site-wide water services reticulation, high voltage reticulation, communications services, and drainage between the Mine Infrastructure Area (MIA), Coal Handling and Processing Plant (CHPP), tailings area, mine-effected water dam discharge, communications tower and the Yurika 66/11kV substation. The scope included high voltage electrical design, MIA kiosk substation, water pumping, communications, earthworks, light vehicles and haul road designs. It has also coordinated the electrical protection schemes between Ergon, Yurika, the CHPP and the MIA and finalising the design around the battery limits for earthworks, roads, drainage, and water services between several different area scopes and engineering design houses. The construction of the design has commenced and will be completed later in the year.

• Mechanical equipment design, fabrication, and commissioning • Earthworks roads and drainage • High voltage reticulation and substation kiosk design • Integration of site-wide protection studies and assistance with the Ergon connection agreement • Site-wide water services distribution and pumping • Mine Infrastructure Area (MIA) detail design • Haul road design Mechanical fabrication Our first involvement with the project was the Rejects Gate for the Coal Handling and Processing Plant (CHPP) rejects loadout bin. Fraser-Lever completed the detailed mechanical design, fabrication, and supply of the gate to Sedgman-CPB JV, which is building the CHPP and will be involved in the commissioning later in the year.

Mine Infrastructure Area Our subsequent major involvement with the project has been the MIA design for mining services contractor Thiess. The MIA is required to be able to support the autonomous mining fleet with several different facilities and calibration loops. The scope involved designing temporary facilities that would be used for the initial startup phase and permanent facilities that were built post-startup. The temporary facilities include a heavy vehicle workshop,

Fraser-Lever Australian Mining Engineers & Consultants

stores, a tyre change area, and air compressors. The permanent facilities include repurposing the temporary facilities and creating a purpose-built heavy vehicle (HV) workshop, HV Refuelling area, HV and LV wash pad, explosive reload facility, pit dewatering study, lighting design, sections of the HV autonomous haul road and drainage design.

• Airport design • Substation design • Bulk materials handling design including conevyors, bins, hoppers, trippers, feeders, stackers and chutes Heavy Vehicle Workshop

Administration Area

Temporary HV Workshop

Train Wagon Jacking Scissor Lift Permanent HV Workshop

Summary To summarise our contribution, our scope has been to complete the design to interface with the CHPP, mine infrastructure area, water dams, tailings dams, and 66/11 kV substation. Our multi-disciplinary company, which is relatively small, has been able to respond to changing requirements and resolve the interfaces with many different scopes.

Where does Fraser-Lever fit into the mining market?

Since the creation of Fraser-Lever three years ago, our focus has been: • Non-processing infrastructure to support processing plants • Sustaining capital projects to support existing processing plants in civil, structural, wet plant mechanical and bulk materials handling • Mechanical fabrication of specialist equipment for bulk materials handling, including loadout gates, rail clamps, hydraulic gates • Feasibility studies for complete processing plants, nonprocess infrastructure, camps, and mining infrastructure

What other markets does Fraser-Lever operate in?

Whilst mining dominates our work, Fraser-Lever has fertiliser, sugar, and rail clients, which collectively combine with about 20 percent of our business. We also offer engineering services to construction companies to modify existing designs to assist with constructibility and safety. The construction companies are in varying industries, including water, building services, and transport.

Looking ahead, what are your key priorities and targets for the rest of the year and into 2024?

The key priorities and targets for the rest of the year will be the support of the construction and commissioning stages of the Olive Downs Complex and the support of the mining services contractor as they commence mining operations.

• Structural, mechanical, and electrical audits in processing plants, non-process infrastructure, MIA, and camps • Earthworks design, haul road design, light vehicle road design

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PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

coordinated with the company’s investment strategy as an outstanding asset, capable of development that met the highest environmental and operational efficiency standards.

“The complex is a new Tier 1 steelmaking coal development in the world’s best and most mature basin, surrounded by some of the best coal producers on the planet. As a new mine, it is able to implement a best-of-breed approach to mining, rehabilitation, the environment, and sustainability,” reveals Tudor.

Upon completion and full expansion, the Olive Downs Complex will hold immense potential, boasting over 500 million tonnes of open-cut reserves and an impressive mine life of 79 years. It is set to become one of the world’s largest steelmaking coal mines, capable of producing up to 20 million tonnes of run-of-mine (ROM) 62 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“THE COMPLEX IS A NEW TIER 1 ST E E L M A K I N G COA L D E V E LO P M E N T I N T H E W O R L D ’ S B E S T A N D M O S T M AT U R E B A S I N , S U R R O U N D E D BY S O M E O F T H E B E ST COA L PRODUCERS ON THE PLANET” – BARRY TUDOR, CHAIRMAN AND CEO, PEMBROKE RESOURCES

steelmaking coal annually.

“The rare asset had been on the radar of Mark Sheldon, Pembroke Resources’ Chief Operating Officer, for over a decade as it was a key pipeline expansion asset of MacArthur Coal,” Tudor adds.

Pembroke Resources has also acquired and developed a steelmaking coal asset in the province of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia,

from greenfield exploration to full production with customers in Southeast Asia and Europe.

“The mining industry is an extremely exciting and fulfilling space to operate in. We are not only providing an essential raw material for one of the most critical materials in the world, but also generating a lot of job opportunities and contributing to state and federal finances,” he reflects.

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PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

PLANNING A PROJECT Considered a rare project in the prevailing ESG and investment landscape, the Olive Downs Complex deviates from the conventional trajectory of major mining companies that are avoiding large greenfield coal developments. Therefore, Pembroke Resources sees it as an opportunity to illustrate a fresh approach to mining that aligns with contemporary values concerning sustainability.

“We operate at the Olive Downs Complex in partnership with world-leading international mining services company, Thiess. The mine is the first project to implement fully autonomous CAT 794 trucks and autonomous drilling at the same site.”

The nature and scale of the project lends itself to implementing this technology to drive superior productivity and sustainability outcomes. The fleet of fully autonomous CAT 794 trucks is a notable achievement of the Olive Downs Complex, as it is pioneering, cutting-edge technology.

It is the first mine in Australia to 64 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

IN T E R E ST ING I ND USTRY FAC TS A ND F I G URE S • The major producers and exporters of metallurgical coal, also known as coking coal, are Australia, Canada, and the US. • Metallurgical coal is an essential ingredient in steel production, making it one of the most widely used building materials on Earth.

• It takes around 770 kilograms (kg) of metallurgical coal to make one tonne of steel.

• The Bowen Basin covers an area of over 60,000 square kilometres running from Collinsville to Theodore.

• Most of the basin’s open-cut and underground mines are located in the north.

• The Bowen Basin is rich in both coal and gas deposits, and it contains almost all of the state’s hard coking coal.

• Global population growth and increased urbanisation will continue to drive longterm demand for steel and the steelmaking coal required to produce it.

“We excel in delivering safe, cost effective and on time solutions for our clients.”

Shaft Drilling to 2.7m

Water Bores

Mine Services

Exploration Drilling

Gas Drilling Services

DEPCO drilling is an Australian owned and family operated drilling business servicing the mineral, mining and agricultural sectors for over 60 years. Our 9 acre facility in Rockhampton consists of fully qualified fabricators, diesel fitters and machinists producing quality customised equipment and integrated drilling systems ensuring client requirements can be met sooner.

• Ventilation Shafts to 2.7m • Goaf and Gas draining • Exploration drilling solutions • Inseam • Oil and Gas exploration • Water monitoring • Artesian bores • Stock and Domestic

60 Years Strong

PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

employ such a fleet and integrate autonomous drills into its operations.

This technological advancement enhances productivity and safety while revolutionising traditional mining practices.

“Construction of the project’s first stage is nearing completion, with production already underway and the rail line and processing plant commissioning expected in January 2024. The first coal sales are expected to follow shortly after,” Tudor informs us.

The project’s first stage will have an annual production capacity of six

million tonnes of ROM coking coal.

Pembroke Resources has outlined plans to swiftly double production capacity, emphasising how the mine was designed and engineered to produce 20 million tonnes per annum and with a modular approach, facilitating future expansions promptly.

A VANGUARD OF THE FUTURE Built in the 21st century, the Olive Downs Complex is designed to meet modern standards. The project will include major infrastructure, including a coal handling and preparation

“ T H E I M P O R TA N C E O F S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y T O P E M B R O K E RESOURCES LIES IN ITS VISION TO G O B E YO N D T H E M I N I M U M REQUIREMENTS AND SET NEW INDUSTRY S TA N D A R D S ” – BARRY TUDOR, CHAIRMAN AND CEO, PEMBROKE RESOURCES

66 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

plant, rail spur, train load-out facility, coal conveyor, stockpiles, electrical transmission lines, water pipeline, and access roads.

“Our priorities remain to complete the construction of this world-class asset on time and on budget and continue production towards mining our high-quality steelmaking coal towards the end of the year.

“While doing this, we will continue to set new standards in environmental and sustainable mining. Even as we strive to achieve these goals, we are equally focused on our first expansion, doubling capacity to 12

LEADERS IN

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION We deliver civil and infrastructure projects to the highest standard. We are known for the quality and reliability of our team and deliver our projects safely, on time and on budget.

We have the resources, experience, capacity and versatility to undertake a wide array of projects, including structural concrete works, bulk earthworks, drainage, infrastructure and services, pavement works, road construction, rehabilitation, camp construction, and camp refurbishment.

Structural concrete Bulk earthworks Mining infrastructure and services Haul roads and dragline pads Camp construction and refurbishment Drainage solutions

Road construction

harlowcivil.com.au

million tonnes per annum as soon as it is practical to do so,” finishes Tudor.

As a coking coal project, the Olive Downs Complex will be one of the world’s largest open-cut coking coal mines. At its peak, the mine is expected to produce 20 million tonnes of steelmaking metallurgical coal annually. This will be transported by rail to the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal for export to key 68 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

international markets such as Japan, India, and South Korea.

The high-quality steelmaking coal produced from the mine will also contribute to national and state economies as well as much-needed infrastructure worldwide.

Importantly, Pembroke Resources is providing the opportunity for people to live in towns near the mine, including Moranbah and Dysart, and

is building sustainable futures for the communities in which the Olive Downs Complex operates.

PEMBROKE RESOURCES admin@pembrokeresources.com.au www.pembrokeresources.com.au

PEMBROKE RESOURCES MINING

LET’S WORK TOGETHER South East Elevation’s truck-mounted Cherry Picker is a modern minecompliant premium piece of equipment, uniquely designed to provide a convenient and safe working at heights service in the Mining, Civil & Environmental Industries. During our recent Greenfield project at Pembroke’s Olive Downs Mine, our compact and easily accessible EWP has proven to be reliable and has been used for a multitude of applications over 18 months.

SERVICES & EQUIPMENT • •

• • • •

•

•

18 metre truck-mounted EWP (Wet Hire) Licenced and experienced EWP operator with 15 years’ experience in arboriculture Highly competent team with: Standard 11 & coal board medical compliance Working at heights certification Licenced to operate a boom over 11 metres.

Experience in the Civil and Mining industries including working alongside heavy machinery.

Experienced fauna spotter/ catcher for environmentally sensitive projects Husband and wife team with ability to mobilise quickly and travel Australia-wide.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND CULTURAL APPLICATIONS AT HEIGHTS • •

• •

•

Tree trimming & removal – electrical transmission line; mine access roads; railway corridor Habitat nest boxes installed into tree canopies, including in environmental offset areas to increase dens for existing, and relocated native species. We can supply and install quality boxes and assist ecologists with fauna monitoring/tracking programs using current technology and our unique ability and experience to work safely at heights.

Safe relocation of native species directly into suitable habitat boxes from the EWP basket Checking inside tree hollows for native fauna prior to clearing works and monitoring bird nests and their hatchlings Working with local cultural heritage consultants to assist in the relocation of scarred trees to their keeping place.

Contact the team at South East Elevation Pty Ltd for your next project: 0431776775 southeastelevation@gmail.com www.sunshinecoastcherrypicker.com.au/

C2C Mine Maintenance stands out as a premier provider of comprehensive mine fleet maintenance solutions. Our offerings include vehicle fit outs, compliance inspections, certified brake testing, ongoing fleet maintenance repairs & a fully stocked warehouse of compliance components. The proficient team at C2C thrives on projects of any size, combining over 50 years of experience with an unwavering commitment to excellence. Operating 24/7 from Brisbane to Cairns and out to the Isa, our dependable services underscore out deification to meeting our clients’ needs promptly.

C2C took pride in our collaboration with Pembroke at their Olive Downs Complex, establishing a comprehensive, cloud-driven program for compliance inspections ensuring continuous inspections capabilities reducing downtime & increasing safety.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 69

PBE GROUP MINING

MINING’S TRUSTED T U R N K E Y P R OV I D E R PBE Group is renowned across Australia for its in-house power solutions and unfaltering cable services for the country’s mining industry.

Managing Director, David Meyn, and Group Vice President, Steve Christie, tell us more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Eddie Clinton

A

s Australia’s one-stop shop for mining services, PBE Group (PBE) provides a diverse range of electrical products and solutions which cater for mining, tunnelling, and heavy industry and infrastructure projects.

Due to the company’s strategic geographical location, PBE’s team specialises in delivering turnkey, high-voltage infrastructure, spanning a plethora of services including design, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning across the resources sector, heavy industry, and government activities.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 71

Powering the Mining Industry – an exclusive Q&A with Australian Power Equipment Can you give us an overview of Australian Power Equipment?

Australian Power Equipment: Certainly! Originally launched as AC2 Electrical by directors Andrew Cockbain and Abby Crawford in 2020 during the pandemic, we quickly grew into Australian Power Equipment in 2021. Our portfolio expanded to include top-tier agencies, and we began offering in-stock equipment refurbished to provide immediate solutions to distressed sites. We are backed by our trusted partners Üntel cables and B&D transformers, and our strong connections with suppliers and clients have earned us opportunities to collaborate with esteemed companies like Fortescue Metals, John Holland, Anglo American and Glencore.

What sets Australian Power Equipment apart from its competitors in the market?

Additionally, our refurbished equipment is sent to qualified third-party certification organisations, such as PBE Rutherford, to guarantee safety and compliance before re-entering market.

What is Australian Power Equipment’s position on sustainability?

We are strongly committed to sustainability and actively focused on contributing to the circular economy. By repurposing stranded assets and refurbishing them, we positively impact the environment and help clients experiencing unplanned shutdowns to get back up and running quickly. Our Critical Sourcing services and in-stock equipment, which may undergo minimal modifications to be purpose-ready, reduce the need for new production, save resources, and minimise the transport footprint by removing international shipping.

This approach complements our new equipment sales, creating a balanced and sustainable approach.

What is the vision of Australian Power Equipment for the future of the mining industry?

We envision being the go-to partner for the mining industry and OOEMs, providing innovative and sustainable solutions that enable seamless operations, reduce environmental impact, and drive overall growth.

Our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and dedication to excellence make us stand out. We believe in building strong business relationships with trusted partners such as PBE Rutherford, to ensure that we only supply equipment that meets the highest industry standards. We are thankful for the opportunities to prove ourselves to our clients, and we always strive to provide the best-in-market equipment and service.

How can interested mining companies get in touch with Australian Power Equipment to explore your services?

Safety is paramount in the mining industry. How does Australian Power Equipment ensure its equipment meets the highest safety standards?

Any final message for the mining community from Australian Power Equipment?

Safety is indeed our top priority. We collaborate exclusively with reputable suppliers for our new equipment, ensuring that all products undergo rigorous testing and meet Australian industry standards.

It is easy! They can visit our website www. australianpowerequipment.com.au or reach out to us on 1300 040 500. We are always keen to provide personalised power solutions for every site’s unique requirements.

We understand the critical role mining plays in Australia’s economy, and we are committed to empowering this industry with dependable, sustainable, and cost-effective power solutions. Partner with us for a more powerful and prosperous mining future.

Supplier of proven power equipment Australian Power Equipment is a leading provider of low, medium, and high-voltage power equipment across the Power Generation, Infrastructure, Renewable Energy and Resources sectors. As the agents for Üntel cables, B&D transformers, Leistung switchgear, CAB cable systems and WE Walter electrical systems, they can supply new equipment to specification. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the company also provides repurposed and refurbished equipment including substations, transformers, and switch rooms.

They can provide immediate solutions to unplanned outages with their in-stock equipment or critical sourcing solutions. Australian Power Equipment is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service and electrical engineering support, ensuring businesses can make best-practice decisions for their operations.

1300 040 500 info@australianpowerequipment.com.au www.australianpowerequipment.com.au

PBE’S APPROACH As such, its in-house capabilities shine through as the company’s defining differentiator in the saturated landscape of Australian mining services. Additionally, PBE prides itself on its ability to simply get the job done efficiently and quickly, through close collaboration with clients.

“We often enter into a partnership arrangement with our clients to ensure that we both go in the same direction with the project and get the required results,” opens Group Vice President of PBE, Steve Christie.

MAINTAINING GROWTH PBE as a group consists of three subsectors that cover the needs of the entire mining industry, from generators to communications. A division of the group, PBE Rutherford (Rutherford) was first acquired by PBE in 2018 to expand the entity’s capabilities.

Previously, Rutherford had been an active part of the Australian mining 74 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

LONG-TERM VALUE ORIENTATION – PBE wishes to drive its long-term shareholder value through larger acquisitions, growth opportunities, and organic investments.

DISCIPLINED ALLOCATION OF CAPITAL – PBE only invests in opportunities that make sense, determined through a disciplined, intellectual, and robust evaluation process. The company believes

landscape for approximately 30 years. Initially starting with cable repairs, the division flourished with its cable services before expanding into manufacturing with greater projects.

Today, PBE is riding on a wave of prosperity as the nation’s mining industry enjoys a current boom after taking a dip in previous years.

“I’ve been in this industry for three decades and it’s the busiest I’ve ever seen it,” Managing Director, David Meyn tells us.

that efficiency and responsibility are the necessary components to long-term business value.

OPERATIONAL FOCUS – PBE maintains that sustained success in business is the result of highquality operations which form the basis for a long-term competitive advantage and growth. This is achieved by operationally-minded investors who are looking to build proficient businesses with marketleading competitive positions.

PBE GROUP MINING

Specialists in Electrical Cable and Mining Connectors Expertise and precision is our purpose. CMI Electrical Products are specialists in the manufacture and distribution of electrical cables and associated components for industrial, mining, infrastructure, commercial, petrochemical and information technology applications throughout Southeast Asia and Oceania.

CMI QLD-Brisbane (07) 3863 0749 32 Duntroon St Brendale. QLD. 4500 southqldsales@cmielectrical.com.au -----CMI QLD-Rockhampton (07) 4921 0978 Shop 3 at 76 Hollingsworth Street, North Rockhampton Qld 4701 northqldsales@cmielectrical.com.au -----CMI VIC (03) 9532 1233 3 Dissik Street, Cheltenham VIC 3192 vicsales@cmielectrical.com.au -----CMI Head Office NSW (02) 9807 6155 F3 3-29 Birnie Avenue, Lidcombe NSW 2141 nswsales@cmielectrical.com.au -----CMI WA (08) 9358 1788 36 Division Street, Welshpool WA 6106 wasales@cmielectrical.com.au PH: 1800 264 222 www.cmielectrical.com.au

HUNTER ENGINEERING SALES

Heavy Industry Electrical Equipment Solutions Hunter Engineering Sales distributes, stocks and supplies an extensive range of high quality, reliable products and services to mining and multiple market sectors. We can provide engineering support, programming and document certification to support the products we sell.

At HES, we are committed to deliver turnkey solutions to you, our customer, on time every time.

Ph: 02 4952 8533 info@hesales.com.au www.hesales.com.au

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 75

PBE GROUP MINING

“ P B E I S A T U R N K E Y S O LU T I O N S P R OV I D E R – W H AT E V E R T H E N E E D I S , W E H AV E E X P E R T S A R R I V E O N - S I T E A N D P R OV I D E T H E F U L L SOLUTION” – S T E V E C H R I S T I E , G R O U P V I C E P R E S I D E N T, P B E G R O U P

76 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

PBE GROUP MINING

URSUS®

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WHERE THE ENERGY MUST PASS, WE LET IT RUN.

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As a testament to the frequency of the company’s projects and operations, PBE has branched out into other industries in the last year, including the closure of a power station, which further involved a bypass and switch-out installation.

This was a highly significant operation as it meant the company could transition into the energy market, with the first 330 kilovolt

(kV) project to be completed by PBE. “The fact that the closure was outside of the coal industry is a gamechanger for our organisation, as it opens us up to the energy market,” Meyn adds.

Furthermore, this particular project signified a step towards renewable energy for PBE, as the coal-fired power station is set to become a renewable energies hub and pave

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the way for other sustainable and environmentally-friendly projects.

Greater expansion is also evident in the development of its manufacturing workshop, which has resulted in substantial contractual partnerships with some notable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of mining machinery, including Sandvick Mining and many other key players.

PBE GROUP MINING

TOP-QUALITY TURNKEY SOLUTIONS PBE goes above and beyond to ensure that each project exceeds client expectations and further bolsters its reputation with in-house, industry-leading mining and engineering capabilities.

“PBE is a turnkey solutions provider – whatever the need is, we have experts arrive on-site and provide the full solution from design, supply, construction, and conditioning, through to ongoing maintenance,” highlights Meyn.

“We pride ourselves on getting things right, as we support our products in the market and are not scared to address any issues that arise, which is one of the many reasons why we have lots of return business,” Christie proudly tells us.

One particular project is Whitehaven Coal’s Narrabri mine, in which PBE partnered with Narrabri Coal Operations to design, install and construct a 66kV switching station

“ W E O P E R AT E A ‘ C R A D L E -T O G R AV E ’ M O D E L , WHERE WE ENSURE T H E S U S TA I N E D EFFICIENCY OF A C A B L E W E H AV E SUPPLIED, RIGHT THROUGH ITS L I F E C YC L E , TO T H E POINT WHERE IT C A N ’ T B E R E PA I R E D ” – D AV I D M E Y N , M A N A G I N G D I R E C TO R , P B E G R O U P

as part of an upgrade to the existing facility. Thanks to PBE’s diligent and comprehensive services, the mine entry point now has greater protection and a consistent supply to the existing underground longwall face.

Even though the overall timeline for the Narrabri mine occasionally proved challenging, the project was completed to the utmost health and safety standards, achieving no hazards, equipment damage, or injuries throughout.

Moreover, the design and installation process was completed to the highest standard and within a good timeframe, subsequently having attentive and efficient follow-ups and maintenance services conducted by the PBE team.

GOING GREEN As the company looks ahead to 2024, the Australian renewable energy sector is a great priority. Already, PBE is very conscious of its environmental

THE FIVE APPROACHES OF PBE SITE ELECTRIFICATION – Servicing site-based electrical infrastructure that supplies all the necessities for a complete turnkey high-voltage power system solution.

SITE SERVICES – PBE’s on-site articulation division, delivering a range of bespoke and responsive lifecycle services.

footprint, as it is a proactive player within the corporate government model for larger businesses that encapsulates environmental monitoring of waste output and recycling.

“We operate a ‘cradle-to-grave’ model, where we ensure the sustained efficiency of a cable we have supplied, right through its lifecycle, to the point where it can’t be repaired.

“Subsequently, we recycle our cables in a specialised facility, where the different metals are processed, rather than going through a runof-the-mill processing plant,” Meyn explains.

“There is currently a major focus on energy sustainability, as the Australian power network is stretched due to outdated and aging infrastructure.

Therefore, the government is encouraging entry into the green engineering

MANUFACTURING AND OVERHAULS – Manufacturing large-scale, high-voltage equipment such as coal mine-related electrical substations and distribution boards.

CABLE SERVICES AND COUPLERS – Catering to open-cut and underground mining, such as power cables for drag lines and electric rope shovels, as well as underground power articulation and development cables, including shuttle car cables, continuous miners, and bolters.

EQUIPMENT HIRE – Providing critical equipment for hire as well as offering a complete, turnkey power system. PBE also has the added benefit of an international shipping hub which can fast track the delivery of equipment.

space,” Christie informs us.

As the company begins to plan for next year, PBE’s priority is to provide a secure supply of power to its customers across the nation, which can be achieved with a quality service offering as seen in its ability to design, build, deliver, and install critical solutions.

PBE GROUP Tel: +61 (0) 2 4961 9619 contact@pberutherford.com pbegrp.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 79

WABTEC DIGITAL MINE MINING

AC C E L E R AT I N G THE FUTURE OF T R A N S P O R TAT I O N Mit ch T

an ze

r

With an unparalleled portfolio of mining products and services, Mitch Tanzer, Global Commercial Director of Wabtec Digital Mine, speaks to us about how the company is revolutionising the way the world moves for future generations Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Eddie Clinton

W

ith roots dating all the way back to prominent names like George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec Corporation is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and valueadded services for the freight and transit rail sectors, boasting over 150 years of industry experience.

Mitch Tanzer, Global Commercial Director of Wabtec Digital Mine (Wabtec), has been working in and around the mining industry for over a decade and has never lost his sense of curiosity and excitement when it comes to the people, processes, and technology that make up this unique sector.

“In general, Australia is seen 80 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

as a leader when it comes to the development and implementation of new cutting-edge technology,” opens Tanzer.

“Many other mining jurisdictions are seeing what is being done and are trying to emulate the way in which we operate. Right now, we are seeing a surge in the adoption of new and proven technologies, and Wabtec is a beneficiary of this.”

With solutions that are catered specifically to meet business objectives in a productive and efficient manner, Wabtec is an unparalleled technology leader.

The company operates in three distinct technologies: collision avoidance systems (CAS), underground measure while drilling

(MWD), and software, analytics, and services. With approximately 150 people based in seven different countries, the company supports Tier 1 and Tier 2 customers in every major mining jurisdiction.

To date, 20 percent of the world’s freight is moved by Wabtec locomotives which travel, on average, 1.5 billion miles per year in some of the harshest conditions. Additionally, Wabtec has helped to slash 3.8 million metric tonnes of CO2 with its dedicated sustainability mission.

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY With the core mission of unlocking each customer’s potential by delivering innovative and lasting transportation solutions, Wabtec

WABTEC DIGITAL MINE MINING

is continually at the leading edge of technology and responsible operations across the world.

Recently, Wabtec has seen immediate success in the launch of the Generation 3 CAS, a clear indication that safety has never been more important and will be a significant growth engine for businesses across all major mining jurisdictions.

“Safety continues to be one of the most important initiatives for mining

WABTEC – IN THE NEWS • Wabtec secures deals with global mining companies for 3,500 Generation 3 CAS, thus allowing for the capabilities of the new system to drive performance and safety improvements in mining operations.

• Wabtec showcases how its solutions are advancing electrification and sustainable mining operations at Bauma, the world’s leading trade show for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles, and equipment in Munich, Germany.

• Wabtec celebrates the 5,000th mining drive system wheel built at its plant in Fort Worth, Texas, highlighting the commercial success of the mining wheel for heavy haulers and its reliability and fuel efficiency in the mining industry.

• Wabtec announces an order from BHP Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) for two FLXdrive battery locomotives, building momentum in the market for the world’s first 100 percent battery-powered locomotive.

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operations, and the Generation 3 CAS solution is recognised as the only solution capable to meet the requirements of industry standards set by the Earth Moving Equipment Safety Round Table (EMESRT),” notes Tanzer.

Wabtec further sets itself apart from the competition with solutions that no one else in today’s market comes close to offering.

“For CAS, we have the only solution that can curve beams around corners, provide instant heading on takeoff, offer software that introduces cutting-edge human factors in design with no beeps or buzzers, and monitor the system’s health in real time.”

Being at the forefront of safer, smarter, and greener solutions, Wabtec incorporates advanced technologies, including machine learning (ML), data analytics, digital twins, and remote monitoring,

allowing mines to gain valuable insights into their individual operations and make data-driven decisions that ultimately help increase output and reduce costs.

“Our drill guidance solution (DGS) product is the only tool to achieve IECEx certification and, therefore, we are the only choice when it comes to safe drilling,” further expands Tanzer.

Additionally, Wabtec is close to launching a brand-new product for DGS customers, which will provide a change in mobility for underground coal mines, along with opening a new remote monitoring centre in Johannesburg with the aim of supporting customers across all product lines.

Wabtec’s vision of revolutionising the way the world moves for future generations is evident in the dayto-day decisions and actions that it consistently makes.

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WABTEC DIGITAL MINE MINING

EST. 1982

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APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 83

WABTEC DIGITAL MINE MINING

DECARBONISING GLOBAL TRANSPORT With the commitment to sustainability at the heart of everything that Wabtec does, the company is leading the way in creating a more sustainable freight and passenger transportation network.

Additionally, since operational excellence and environmental stewardship are among its main priorities, Wabtec ensures that its business is conducted in a way that is sustainable for employees, customers,

SUSTAINABILITY AT WABTEC Innovating with purpose – Wabtec is committed to developing responsible and sustainable products that minimise the impact on the planet.

Driving responsible operations – Wabtec is dedicated to providing safe work environments and products that enable the productive and efficient use of resources.

Empowering people and communities – Wabtec is committed to driving an inclusive culture grounded in integrity, and developing and investing in communities.

and the communities in which they live and work.

Recently, Wabtec published its Reconciliation Action Plan. “This is the result of a partnership with Reconciliation Australia and is an important step in our journey towards supporting the long-term socioeconomic empowerment of First Nations peoples,” Tanzer tells us.

Along with the various social responsibilities that are at the core of what drives Wabtec as a company, recognising its various staff members and their contributions is significant to Wabtec’s inclusive culture.

“Recognition is a core part of the Wabtec DNA, so a lot of emphasis is put on recognising those that are living and breathing our vision, mission, and values. An initiative that has been really well received by the broader organisation has been Wellness Days,” notes Tanzer.

Wellness Days encourages the prioritisation of physical and mental health by blocking out work activities

and allowing the people who work hard day in, day out to energise and empower themselves in order to be able to continuously deliver meaningful outcomes for customers.

More than just the world-class products it offers, Wabtec is proudly guided by its values of safety, customer focus, excellence, innovation, and teamwork, all contributing to the diverse thinking that leads to innovative ideas which best meet the needs of clients.

MOVING THE WORLD FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS With an outstanding year under Wabtec’s belt as a direct result of the dedication of its international team, there is nowhere else to go but up.

“We anticipate that we will continue to grow, and we have a lot more exciting news to come in the near future,” acclaims Tanzer.

“A key ingredient to our growth is also expanding from our core, and we are busy examining some options that will see us expand our capability further into underground,

“OUR EXPERTS IN MINERAL PROCESSING AND A S S E T S H AV E B E E N H E L P I N G C U STO M E R S AC H I E V E M O R E W I T H L E SS FO R OV E R 20 YEARS, AND A S O F R E C E N T LY, THIS IS EVEN M O R E A C H I E VA B L E W I T H O U R R E M OT E M O N I TO R I N G CENTRE BASED IN JOHANNESBURG” – M I T C H TA N Z E R , G L O B A L CO M M E R C I A L D I R E C TO R , WA B T E C D I G I TA L M I N E

artificial intelligence (AI), and mine productivity.”

This will be underpinned by Wabtec’s continued investment in the development of its data management platform.

In North America, the market is maturing in its approach to managing vehicle interaction, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is regularly publishing updates on the incidents and fatalities that are occurring. Like Australia, there is pressure on the industry as a whole to make meaningful improvements to safety.

Similarly, in South Africa, Wabtec is experiencing tailwinds due to the level nine mandate introduced by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), entailing that all mining operations must comply with the relevant sections of the legislation or risk being shut down.

Mining is undeniably an important industry that plays a vital role in the global economy, but as with any major sector, there are always challenges to be faced. However, with the extraordinary collective talent of the people who make up Wabtec, these hurdles are faced head-on and

without hesitation.

Always promoting a safer, smarter, and greener approach, Wabtec is a reliable and time-tested corporation that allows mining companies to directly address problems and position themselves for a successful and long-lasting future.

WABTEC DIGITAL MINE apac.dmt@wabtec.com www.wabteccorp.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 85

THE FUTURE OF MINING As the world’s largest and most experienced supplier of grinding media, Jim Anderson, CEO of Molycop, discusses how the company’s continued investment in research, development, and advanced technology delivers improved outcomes to customers Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold

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MOLYCOP MINING

W

ith over a 100-year history built on reliable innovation and a conscious global footprint, Molycop is a time-tested, world-leading partner for consumable products, instrumentation, and services for the global mining industry and rail and manufacturing sectors in Australia.

With origins tracing back to the Australia-based Commonwealth Steel and US-based Sheffield Steel

businesses, both of which independently developed grinding media products for minerals processing, Molycop prides itself on providing innovative and high-quality products, world-class technical support, and delivering outstanding supply assurance.

“We’re incredibly proud that Molycop’s strength is not one or two things in isolation; it is the sum of our parts,” opens Jim Anderson, CEO of Molycop.

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MOLYCOP MINING

BRIEF HISTORY OF MOLYCOP: “We are focused on helping our customers increase throughput and maximise recovery with our portfolio of products and services across milling, flotation, leaching, process optimisation, and training.”

Coming from a rich and deep history of serving the world’s copper and gold mining segments, Molycop now operates a global business model with over 1,500 dedicated employees who service over 400 mines across 40 countries, being the largest grinding media supplier in the world.

With major operations in Chile, Peru, Mexico, the US, Canada, Australia, Indonesia, and Spain, Molycop leverages the full talent of its network to provide the best solutions for customers with a unique local nuance and expertise.

1917: First site established under Commonwealth Steel in Waratah, New South Wales, Australia 1930s: Sheffield Steel invented and patented the first heat-treated grinding media alloyed with molybdenum and copper, giving rise to the Molycop brand name 1961: Sheffield Steel began its international expansion into Chile 1998: Commonwealth Steel expanded into Indonesia 2002: International plants were acquired by Scaw Metals Group 2007-2010: The foundation of the business as it operates today emerged, with OneSteel acquiring Commonwealth Steel through its purchase of Smorgon Steel and then acquiring the North and South American grinding media operations of Scaw Metals 2011: Under OneSteel ownership, all the business’ grinding media manufacturing facilities merged into a common Molycop organisation, creating the largest grinding media company in the world 2017: Acquired by American Industrial Partners (AIP), Molycop adopted a global business model continuously improving its fulfilment and service innovation 2018 – 2019: The company embarked on further geographic expansions acquiring Donhad (Australia) and Metso Sabo and expanding its reach into Africa and the

AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF INNOVATION “Innovation is in Molycop’s DNA.” Being able to call yourself an industry leader is no small feat; Molycop has been able to set these 88 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Middle East.

2020 – 2023: Molycop has developed a comprehensive instrumentation and process optimisation offering through the acquisition of Mill Trakka sensor technology, Digital Control Lab (“Millslicer”) and Process IQ.

ONSITE SCRAP METAL PROCESSING DONE PROFESSIONALLY AJA Industrial Services specialise in onsite scrap metal processing and supporting scrap yards in planning and managing all scrap processing from sorting to cutting to logistics.

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With our experience and fit for purpose equipment we are able to meet and crush quotas consistently.

We provide you with the tools, strategies, and expertise to accelerate all your processing needs and offer Short- or long-term contracts, Onsite resizing of scrap metal across all sectors for transport, FIFO, Project Management, site clean-ups and Machine Hire.

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“ I N N O VAT I O N I S I N M O LY C O P ’ S D N A” – J I M A N D E R S O N , C E O , M O LY C O P

standards and differentiate itself as a result of its investments in research and development (R&D) and the people who work hard to make results happen – whether it be by upskilling or attracting the industry’s brightest minds.

In addition, Molycop has partnered 90 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

with some of the world’s leading universities, acquiring a competitive edge when it comes to developing and retaining people, ensuring that they are well-equipped for the future.

“Importantly, the way we collaborate with our customers and stakeholders also drives this

progress,” clarifies Anderson.

The innovation strategies Molycop provides aim to yield fast, credible solutions to the social and fiscal challenges that customers face. These strategies also enable the sustainable liberation of resources essential for a better tomorrow.

MOLYCOP MINING

We are experts in on-site services, total scrap management and add value to your by-products through our innovative recovery processes.

Making a material difference SCE Steel Services leads the industry with a comprehensive and pioneering array of pre- and post-production services.

SCE Steel Services provides the following specialist on-site solutions to the steel industry and other major metallurgical producers: • Materials and by-product handling • Slag handling, processing, marketing and sale • Metal recovery, collection and steel cutting • Dust agglomeration, for recovery of valuable elements • Refractory removal, processing, marketing and sale • Transport and logistics

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TERRACE FABRICATIONS Terrace Fabrications is a leading familyowned steel fabrication company, founded in 1979 by Victor Ruban and based in Heatherbrae, NSW. With over four decades of experience, Terrace Fabrications now has over 20 employees and has remained a trusted partner in providing bespoke services to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, processing, mining, and construction across The Hunter and Upper Hunter regions.

We provide a variety of services that cater to the diverse needs of our clients, ensuring a comprehensive solution for their projects. These include: • Steel fabrication • Plate work • Mining equipment fabrications and repairs • Ladles • Tank and pipe work • Screening equipment

Our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned us an unrivalled reputation in the market, cementing our position as a leader.

Ph: (02) 4987 3881 E: enquiries@terracefabrications.com.au terracefabrications.com.au

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MOLYCOP MINING

“Together we are able to solve the big challenges our industries face, setting new benchmarks, evolving to market trends, and ultimately delivering improved outcomes for our customers,” notes Anderson.

The future of mining, like that of any industry, is always changing, and Molycop is all about ensuring the change is for the better. By playing our part in the transformation of the mining sector and improving the ways in which everyday things get done, Molycop is always aspiring to be innovative and ahead of the curve, with a constant focus on forward momentum.

PROCESS OPTIMISATION SOLUTIONS As is expected in any major industry that plays a large part in driving economic growth, the mining industry is continually evolving and facing new challenges, including pertinent subjects such as declining

Jim Anderson conferring with colleagues

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APAC OUTLOOK: COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT MOLYCOP360?

Jim Anderson, CEO: “Our Molycop360 business, while Australian-centric, provides integrated logistics and waste management solutions predominantly on the East Coast of New South Wales. The business captures waste streams such as used grinding media, conveyor belts, and mining tyres. The scrap steel and rubber crumb are used in the steelmaking process to produce new products at Molycop’s site in Waratah. This is a model that Molycop is looking to globalise to deliver on our circular economy efforts.”

head grades, skillset challenges, and developing local communities.

However, technology is an enabler that allows the industry to meet these challenges head-on.

“Molycop has been the leader in our industry for over 100 years, and it’s only a natural progression and is expected we take a leadership position in working with our customers to help them solve these issues through the use of more advanced technology,” comments Anderson.

Operating with the desire for constant evolution and standing at the forefront of the industry, Molycop has established a new business portfolio under the strength and reputation of the company brand to emphasise its commitment to sustainability and innovation with the extensive range of products and services at the customer’s disposal.

For example, Molycop’s innovation team has significant research projects

MOLYCOP MINING

Stanton Engineering Consultants Stanton is assisting Molycop with satisfying their safe use requirements for overhead bridge and gantry cranes.

Are you meeting your safe use responsibilities?

In addition to routine inspection and maintenance by crane technicians, the mandatory requirements for third-party input are: • An independent periodic third-party inspection (PTPI) • A DWP assessment (DWP) Stanton’s PTPI/DWP package is used by a range of large crane fleet owners.

Our package assists these crane owners in satisfying their safe use responsibilities.

Note that major inspections are not required if your crane (or hoist) has not passed 100% DWP. If a major inspection has been recommended, talking to the crane specialists at Stanton will likely help your budget bottom line.

We can also help with compliance auditing, fatigue/strength assessment, anti-derailment design, certification of past-DWP cranes and much more.

Phone: +61 438 523 610 | Email: cranes@stancon.com.au Website: https://www.stancon.com.au/

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 93

MOLYCOP MINING

“ O U R U N I Q U E S E L L I N G P O I N T I S O N E T H AT P L AC E S U S B E YO N D D I R E C T C O M PA R I S O N .

W E ’ R E I N C R E D I B LY P R O U D T H AT M O LY C O P ’ S ST R E N GT H I S N OT O N E O R T WO T H I N G S I N I S O L AT I O N ; I T I S T H E S U M O F O U R P A R T S ” – J I M A N D E R S O N , C E O O F M O LY C O P

underway with leading universities in materials science and comminution.

With a major initiative such as the development of the Molycop Digital Engine, projects such as these underpin the future product and service developments within the company.

“These new capabilities truly build on Molycop’s rich history, paving the way for a future that’s better when we create it together,” expands Anderson.

Under one strong identity, Molycop prides itself on its holistic portfolio offered to customers, continuously raising the bar for progress, accessibility, and reliability.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MACHINE LEARNING Molycop has placed a focus on moving beyond the accuracy and flexibility limitations of traditional

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mineral processing analytical techniques, which were traditionally based on empirical models and rulebased systems, to opportunities in new powerful tools for data analysis, prediction, and optimisation.

“Around the world, we are seeing a positive impact in the way Molycop’s customers are benefitting from artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML),” notes Anderson, “including real-time predictions and the optimisation of mineral processing operations.”

One such example of this positive impact that has been developed to predict the behaviour and optimise the performance of comminution circuits is the Molycop Digital Engine, an advanced intelligence computational framework specifically tailored for optimising crusher-tofloatation circuits. Additionally, the

Digital Engine is integrated with Molycop’s mill monitoring system, including shell and mill sensor data with main operating variables.

Always leading the way for progress and innovation, Molycop’s Dr. Yousef Mohammadi will present a paper, eMolycop Digital Engine: Machine Learning-accelerated SAG Mill Optimisation, at SAG 2023 in Vancouver. And Mukesh Singh Bisht, who is undertaking his PhD co-supervised by Molycop at Sydney University, will present a poster display titled “Heterarchical Comminution Model for Rotary Mills”.

Advanced instrumentation, data capture and visualisation, and data integration with AI and advanced analytics overlay are all aspects that are crucial to the future of mining and are supported by Molycop’s global team of qualified experts.

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY As a company with an expansive global reach, Molycop works to positively impact people, support local communities, and minimise our environmental footprint through every aspect of the company.

Committed to the pursuit of greater sustainability in a manner that allows

for superior efficiency of resources and achieves the highest standard of environmental performance, Molycop is dedicated to creating lasting benefits that are responsible, transparent, and respectful to the rights of all.

Polymer Injection Technology (PIT) is a groundbreaking initiative Molycop, in collaboration with the University of New South Wales (UNSW), is spearheading to reshape Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steel manufacturing by partially substituting traditional coke with rubber from tyres and other sources.

“The benefits are many; however, the clear environmental stewardship is a focus area for us. Beyond financial advantages, PIT significantly reduces carbon emissions by minimising electrical energy consumption,” expands Anderson.

Additionally, Molycop has developed a sustainability strategy to articulate priorities, provide clear actions to meet objectives and enable the monitorisation of progress against agreed targets.

This strategy includes three strategic pillars: “doing better for the future, with a focus on environmental

material topics; doing what matters, ensuring our social works and people focus is maintained; and doing what’s right, managing our organisation with strong ethics and governance arrangements,” explains Anderson.

Molycop also has a critical role to play in helping the industry deliver the copper it needs for a low-carbon future, as the demand for copper used for solar and wind is forecast to double by 2035. In doing this, Molycop is focusing on delivering consumable products that have increased wear life and are optimised for varying mill operating conditions – increasing the throughput and recovery in the comminution process.

With the belief that one of the best ways to promote sustainable development is to innovate new and better technologies and to change current ways of operating, the focus is always on the future at Molycop, taking the responsibility of providing for customers very seriously.

molycop.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 95

MARTINUS CONSTRUCTION

ON TRACK FOR

G R E AT N 96 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

NESS

As the only privately-owned Tier 1 railway infrastructure business in Australia, Martinus is spearheading the global rail renaissance. CEO and Founder, Treaven Martinus, tells us more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Ryan Gray

A

s one of the oldest forms of transport, and an indicator of the modern industrial world, efficient railways are integral to the smooth transportation of trade, goods, and people across the world.

Over in Australia, Martinus has transformed existing railway infrastructure, as one of the few fullservice railway companies that has the capability to build and maintain large-scale railway lines, with its vital presence felt across Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Chile - its four key markets.

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“ O U R C U LT U R E I S FA M I LY- B A S E D A N D W E G E N U I N E LY C A R E A B O U T O U R P E O P L E – W E L I V E A N D B R E AT H E T H I S E V E R Y D AY ” – T R E AV E N M A R T I N U S , C E O A N D F O U N D E R , M A R T I N U S

With a comprehensive vertically integrated model, the company diligently provides long-term solutions for its clients so that they can achieve their goals to the best possible standards.

“Martinus has had an amazing 18-year journey. The business started off with myself and my wife in the spare bedroom of our apartment in Cronulla, a suburb of Sydney, and has now grown to be the largest privately-owned full-service railway infrastructure business in Australia and New Zealand,” introduces CEO and Founder of Martinus, Treaven Martinus.

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From its humble beginnings, the company now holds 1,700 employees who work diligently to deliver multibillion-dollar projects and maintain the company’s position as the only privately-owned railway infrastructure business in Australia. This unique standing is further bolstered as it is the only rail contractor in New Zealand, maintaining a significant business advantage.

MAJOR AND MEGA PROJECTS In the Oceania market, Martinus has great potential for the expansion of its diversified portfolio.

“We are delivering major and mega

projects across all facets in Australia and New Zealand, all thanks to our incredible team in both these areas.

We wouldn’t be where we are today without our people who are just as passionate about rail as I am, if not more,” says Treaven.

Regarding projects in the continent, the influence of the company can be felt far and wide across Australia and New Zealand.

Martinus is currently successfully delivering several major projects across the region, including the supply of three intermodals for Inland Rail, a 1,727 kilometre (km) railway line currently under construction.

Martinus is proud to be part of this ambitious project and to work with Inland Rail again on the Albury to Parkes (Albury to Illabo and Stockinbingal to Parkes) stretch in New South Wales (NSW).

Over in Queensland, Martinus’ Cross River Rail project recently reached the halfway point in June this year, with the railway infrastructure work due for completion in 2026.

“Work is ramping up with an increased number of major and overall possessions commencing next year, which sets the record for the largest number of possessions in Queensland’s rail history – and we are due to beat our own record in 2025,” Treaven eagerly highlights.

Additionally, the City Rail Link (CRL) project in New Zealand is the largest transport infrastructure currently under construction in the country, with the final slabs of the track from Te Waihorotiu Station (Aotea Centre) to Maungawhau Station (Mt Eden) recently completed.

“This project has been such a success for the team, and they are now working on the opposite tunnel, where they have already delivered 7,000 blocks for the track works.

There is still a lot to do, as the entire CRL project will be handed back to the client in 2024,” Treaven explains.

MARTINUS CONSTRUCTION

MARTINUS’ OPERATIONS IN NEW ZEALAND To continue its growth in Aotearoa, New Zealand, Martinus’ new General Manager, Graham Bradley, is looking to the future by keeping on an eye on the company’s current operations. Bradley has worked with Martinus for years, and prior to this new role, he directed the largest transport infrastructure project in New Zealand, the CRL, for Martinus.

City Rail Link project, Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

execution. In addition, with a rail safety license issued by Waka Kotahi, the New Zealand Transport Agency, the team can operate rail vehicles as specified in the approved Rail Safety Case. This is all wrapped up with digital tools and mature systems to design and self-deliver integrated rail systems with precision.

“We prioritise safety and quality assurance, and our International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) certifications guarantee the highest standards in every Across New Zealand, Martinus delivers everything needed

aspect of our project delivery.

for railway development including track construction, civil engineering, drainage works, pavements, overhead wiring,

“From design and fabrication to construction, testing, and

bridge construction, signalling, telecommunications, and

commissioning, we manage every stage meticulously.

power solutions in the rail corridor.

Additionally, our competency management and training programmes ensure that we can provide skilled teams for

“We’re also adept at building vertical construction relative

seamless project delivery.

to rail infrastructure,” adds Bradley.

“We love what we do, and we’re committed to achieving The Martinus team in New Zealand takes pride in its self-

the best possible outcomes for our clients while using

delivery approach, using in-house advanced railway plant

our vast rail knowledge and experience to create

equipment to ensure efficiency and excellence in project

transformative rail transport solutions,” finishes Bradley.

EMULATING SUCCESS As the company continues on its growth trajectory, part of its plan is to mirror the success it has had in Oceania through the progression of its product supply services, rail services, projects, and major and mega project phases across all four key global markets.

In Chile and North America, Martinus has successfully implemented product supply and rail service businesses, transitioning into the major project phase. In order to streamline its operations, the crosscommunication between teams in core markets is very important.

“We share knowledge across all

teams within Martinus to ensure that we are always improving, doing the best and delivering our projects efficiently with the best outcomes for our clients,” he maintains.

The coordination of integral markets is important for maintaining Martinus’ position as a frontrunner in the global rail renaissance, APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 99

A Trusted Multi-Disciplined Powerhouse in Rail, Civil, Mining, and More THEE Group is a dynamic and growing, 100 percent Indigenously-owned and operated business that offers a wide range of services in rail construction and maintenance, civil engineering, mining, labour hire, vegetation control, plant hire, recruitment, and training solutions.

Founded by Managing Director, Craig (Jed) Holdsworth in 2019, Jed has a long-standing association with the rail construction industry, spanning more than 20 years.

Over the past four years, THEE Group has established itself as a leading provider to some of the largest Australian Rail Infrastructure Managers (RIMs), including Aurizon, Queensland Rail, Australian Rail Track Corporation, Sydney Trains, Pacific National and UGL-RL CRN.

Holdsworth says the business has grown leaps and bounds because the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is unparalleled, as he believes in safely delivering projects of the highest quality, meeting deadlines, and exceeding client expectations.

“At THEE Group, we do what we say and place strong emphasis on fostering a culture of trust and continuous learning. Our team members bring diverse skill sets and experiences – and most of all a passion for what we do - allowing us to approach challenges with creativity and find unique solutions.

“Collaboration is the cornerstone of our success and operates on our values of safety, accountability, respect and commitment. Our team members work seamlessly together, leveraging their expertise to deliver projects

of the highest quality while building strong relationships with our clients and the communities in which we work.”

Holdsworth says he is committed to providing ongoing training and upskilling opportunities for his team, whilst encouraging more people to join a thriving and growing industry. This is paramount to him and the rest of the management team.

“We strongly believe in investing in our team’s growth and potential. That’s why we prioritise providing comprehensive training and upskilling opportunities to ensure they have the tools and knowledge needed to excel in their roles and advance their careers,” he says.

To support the growth of the business, six months ago Holdsworth brought on THEE Group’s General Manager, Wayne Beatty, a seasoned professional in the rail industry, bringing a wealth of expertise and experience. His attention to detail, strategic thinking, and hands-on approach make him a valuable asset in managing complex rail infrastructure projects.

“Wayne has a proven track record for delivering great projects, with a strong emphasis and commitment to safety excellence. His ability to effectively navigate challenges have earned him a strong reputation as a reliable leader in the industry,” acclaims Holdsworth.

“Safety is our priority, and we leave no stone unturned in ensuring the well-being of our team and stakeholders. The combination of a strong safety culture and unwavering commitment to quality allows us to exceed client expectations and build lasting relationships based on trust and reliability – and that’s what Wayne is all about.

“Sustaining our growth is critical – particularly financially. That’s when I brought on Chief Financial Officer, Travis Hull. I needed someone to ensure we were continuing to go from strength to strength and ensure we were set up to support our vision and growth trajectory.”

RAIL CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE One of THEE Group’s core strengths is rail construction and maintenance. The company has a wealth of experience in the development and enhancement of rail infrastructure, including the construction of new rail lines, upgrades, extensions, and maintenance programmes. Through its expertise in track construction, signalling systems, electrification, and asset management, THEE Group plays a pivotal role in servicing efficient and reliable rail networks across the east coast and soon across all of Australia.

Wayne Beatty’s contributions to THEE Group have solidified its position as a trusted and innovative provider of rail construction and maintenance services.

CIVIL ENGINEERING THEE Group excels in the field of civil engineering, undertaking a wide array of projects such as road and bridge construction, tunnels, highways, and interchanges. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainable practices, THEE Group delivers

innovative and structurally sound civil engineering solutions. The company’s expertise in planning, design, and construction ensures the successful execution of complex infrastructure projects.

MINING SERVICES In the mining sector, THEE Group offers comprehensive services, including excavation, mine site rehabilitation, and equipment hire. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of the mining

industry, THEE Group provides cost-effective and efficient solutions, enabling mining companies to optimise their operations while maintaining strict safety standards.

LABOUR HIRE AND RECRUITMENT THEE Group provides skilled and reliable labour hire solutions to support various industries. Whether it’s supplying specialised personnel for rail and civil projects, mining operations, or other sectors, THEE Group ensures clients have access to qualified and experienced professionals. Through rigorous recruitment processes, the company identifies the best talent to meet specific project needs and assists clients in building high-performing teams.

VEGETATION CONTROL Vegetation control is a critical aspect of infrastructure maintenance, especially in rail and civil projects.

THEE Group offers comprehensive vegetation control services, ensuring the safety and reliability of rail corridors, roadways, and other infrastructure assets.

By employing environmentally-friendly practices and leveraging advanced technologies, THEE Group effectively manages vegetation growth and minimises potential risks.

PLANT HIRE THEE Group provides a comprehensive fleet of plant and equipment for hire, catering to a wide range

of construction and infrastructure projects. From excavators and loaders to specialised machinery, THEE Group offers reliable and well-maintained equipment to meet project requirements. By providing high-quality machinery, the company enhances productivity and efficiency on-site.

RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING SOLUTIONS THEE Group offers recruitment and training solutions to support its clients’ workforce needs. By identifying skilled professionals and providing tailored training programmes, THEE Group helps clients build competent teams capable of executing projects to the highest standards. Through its comprehensive approach to workforce development, THEE Group ensures clients have access to the right talent and expertise.

With its commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, THEE Group has established itself as a trusted partner for clients across various sectors.

Through its extensive capabilities and expertise, THEE Group continues to make a significant impact, driving progress and delivering exceptional results in each domain it operates.

enquiries@theegroups.com.au THEEGROUPS.COM.AU

MARTINUS CONSTRUCTION

“A S A N A U S T R A L I A N - O W N E D B U S I N E S S , I T ’ S G R E AT W O R K I N G W I T H C O M PA N I E S L I K E T H E E G R O U P TO D E L I V E R A U S T R A L I A N R A I LWAY I N F R A S T R U C T U R E ” – T R E AV E N M A R T I N U S , C E O A N D F O U N D E R , M A R T I N U S

purposefully investing in rail for the future across aspects of passenger and freight rail, as each are highly efficient in the global movement of people, freight goods, and bulk commodities.

“In 2017, we made a strategic decision to take our successful railway business worldwide instead of diversifying into other markets.

“As a result, we can continue to invest in the prosperous aspects of our business, including our team of railway experts, our specialist capabilities in the delivery of work, and the technology required to deliver 104 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

rail products efficiently,” Treaven comments.

Such investments ensure that the company’s four key markets are served and can facilitate future expansion.

EMPLOYEE-FOCUSED One of Martinus’ most distinctive characteristics is its commitment to the growth of its people.

“We have no red tape as we empower our employees to make decisions. Our culture is family-based and we genuinely care about our people - we live and breathe this every day,” Treaven affirms.

However, in recent years, the rail construction sector has faced industry-wide labour shortages, and yet, Martinus sees the skills shortage as a challenge to overcome rather than an issue.

From the early stages of recruitment, the company has a comprehensive system to ensure that it attracts, retains, and trains the right team.

What has proven most successful in its recruitment strategy has been the ability to attract junior to midlevel team members, subsequently providing them opportunity to develop with the company.

UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES Since Matrix Unlimited was established in 2015, we have built our exceptional reputation on our experienced team, the highly professional standards we hold them up to and the quality of our work. That’s how we were able to undertake hundreds of successful projects over the years while demonstrating adaptability and innovation.

Services: • Aluminothermic Weld Crews • Track Construction Teams • Perway/PC Weld Crews • General and Specialised Civil Labour • Safeworking Personnel • Wet/Dry Hire Plant

MAIN CONTACTS: General Manager: Matthew Brooks Email: matthew.brooks@matrixrail.com.au Director: Luke Traynor Email: luke.traynor@matrixrail.com.au

matrixunlimited.com.au

MARTINUS CONSTRUCTION

“With such a strategy, we have been able to attract the right people with a growth mindset. As long as you give them a pathway and the right framework and mentorship to evolve, they will grow into more senior roles.”

As a result, Martinus doesn’t have to rely on the existing market which is currently stretched, and rather hires younger people from adjacent industries to train and upskill.

“We retain talent by giving them an opportunity to grow and providing a framework to do so. Evidently, we have a 90 percent retention rate because we focus on our people and have a learning culture,” Treaven emphasises.

106 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Martinus team installing railway bridge, Carmichael Rail Network, Queensland

Martinus locomotive and ballast wagons delivering ballast in central Queensland

“ W E A R E 1 0 0 P E R C E N T P R I VAT E LY- O W N E D A N D R E I N V E ST OV E R 95 P E R C E N T O F S P E N D B AC K I N TO LO C A L AU ST R A L I A N A N D N E W ZEALAND BUSINESSES” – T R E AV E N M A R T I N U S , C E O A N D F O U N D E R , M A R T I N U S

As the company enters its 18th year of operation, it is looking ahead with its three-year plan that works to cement the four key markets of Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Chile.

The progression of these markets indicates the company’s layer cake approach of product supply,

rail services, and major and mega projects. To solidify its position across these four markets, Martinus has implemented 11 strategic plans across key areas of the business which will take the company to the next level on the global stage.

Such aims will be executed via a senior leadership team that has

developed clear objectives to foster an environment that can deliver on the long-term plans that will take the company forward.

With the recent acquisition of two new businesses, one in North America and one in Australia, Martinus’ operations will ensure that these acquisitions reach their full potential in the construction market.

MARTINUS Tel: (02) 9526 5009 enquiries@martinus.com.au www.martinus.com.au APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 107

108 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

SEE GROUP CONSTRUCTION

SEEING THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION SEE Group is a family-owned collection of companies specialising in civil construction and engineering. We explore its expanding portfolio and impressive operations with Executive Director, Joel Barnes Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Jordan Levey

T

he ever-changing Australian construction sector is currently undergoing a vast transition, as the entire industry makes a shift towards a more sustainable future.

Alongside this, the nation’s construction businesses continue to seek safer and more environmentally-friendly processes, whilst simultaneously preparing for the adoption of renewable energy sources, eco-friendly materials, waste reduction, and recycling. This is all whilst addressing the challenge of minimising the environmental impact of the broader industry.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 109

D MC A major player within this transition is SEE Group (SEE), a familyowned collection of companies that specialise in civil construction, engineering, fleet and asset solutions, and bulk material supply.

Today, SEE operates through four distinct business divisions: SEE Civil, Quarry Solutions, DMC Quarries, and Civil Rent.

“These divisions collectively serve as essential components in meeting construction, plant, and material needs for our projects.

Through seamless collaboration, we offer comprehensive construction solutions that cater to the diverse requirements of our esteemed clients, each with the ability to deliver independently or through integrated services,” opens Executive Director, Joel Barnes.

Barnes has more than 18 years of experience in providing major road, rail, and civil infrastructure projects and was appointed to his current role 110 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ O U R U N I Q U E S T R E N G T H A S A C O M PA N Y L I E S I N O U R R O B U S T A N D V E R T I C A L LYI N T E G R AT E D , S E L F - P E R F O R M M O D E L , S E T T I N G U S A PA R T F R O M O U R CO M P E T I TO R S ” – J O E L B A R N E S , E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R , S E E G R O U P

as Executive Director in 2021.

After joining the SEE Civil division in 2016 as a Construction Manager, he progressed to Operations Manager, then General Manager, before being promoted in 2020 to Executive General Manager of Operations which has involved directing some of SEE Civil’s most successful projects.

“When I was in high school, there was a major road project happening near where we lived. I used to go and watch the scrapers and trucks running around on-site moving dirt; it was fascinating. That’s where my interest

in construction started,” he recalls fondly.

At present, SEE predominately operates in Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) and includes offices and operational facilities at Helensvale and Yatala in Queensland, and Chinderah and Tenterfield in NSW. Across all processes and locations, SEE brings innovation to the forefront by introducing novel approaches to its service delivery and possesses the ability to exercise complete project control from inception to completion.

SEE GROUP CONSTRUCTION

WE GET IT DONE

ABOUT US We are 100 percent committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality and providing timely, honest, and reliable service, delivering better outcomes for all stakeholders and rewarding opportunities for our people.

We strive to win repeat work with clients which demonstrates to us that we are meeting our core values.

We understand the need for timely delivery of service and the impact delays have on the financial viability of projects. We engage closely with our clients to ensure time frames are clearly understood and their objectives met. We assist our clients in minimising project development cycles by drawing on our vast real-world construction and engineering experience.

OUR SERVICES

WATER SERVICES ------

• • • •

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION LIVE CONNNECTIONS HOUSE CONNECTIONS WATER METER INSTALLATION

SEWERAGE SERVICES -----• • •

TRUNK AND RETICULATION MAINS LIVE CONNECTIONS SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF PE LINING

DRAINAGE SERVICES -----•

STORMWATER PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERICAL SUB DIVISION CONSTRUCTION -----• •

RESIDENTIAL AND TOWNHOUSES INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL

CONCRETE WORKS AND EARTHWORKS -----• • • • • •

PIT BUILDING FLOODWAYS KERBS AND PATHS FORMWORK AND STEEL FIXING EXCAVATION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT IMPORT AND EXPORT FILL

“The first thing we build is relationships; relationships built on timely, honest, reliable and quality services”

OUR VISION D&J’s Civil Construction Pty Ltd provides efficient and effective construction services to the civil industry, undertaking projects in a safe, timely manner to satisfy our clients’ health, safety, environmental and quality requirements.

At D&J’s Civil Construction Pty Ltd we take immense pride in our core values that have underpinned the company since its inception as a humble joint-family enterprise. These core values form the basis of our development of long-term relationships with our clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.

07 3807 9692 info@djscivil.com www.djscivil.com

SEE GROUP CONSTRUCTION

THE POWER OF FOUR SEE Group has grown meticulously to employ over 350 people across its four distinct divisions.

“SEE Civil is our construction and engineering company, delivering civil infrastructure solutions to road, rail, and aviation infrastructure; energy and resources; as well as commercial and urban development sectors,” Barnes sets out.

The SEE Civil arm of the company draws capabilities from Group divisions to deliver an integrated project solution, and the Group has been built to cater to different needs and project delivery types.

The Group has also been built to draw from its own capabilities and has built a reputable supply chain to scale operations to project needs and delivery.

Quarry Solutions specialise in

SEE’s bespoke engineering expertise now extends to the design and fabrication of specialised attachments

116 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ O U R CO M M I T M E N T TO Q UA L I T Y E N S U R E S T H AT O U R C L I E N T S C A N R E LY O N O U R E Q U I P M E N T TO D E L I V E R E XC E L L E N T R E S U LT S O N T H E I R P R O J E C T S ” – J O E L B A R N E S , E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R , S E E G R O U P

quarrying and material supply through fixed quarries, batch plants, and mobile operations. The Quarry Solutions division provides the necessary expertise and experience to deliver a total quarry solution process across the material supply lifecycle which includes identification and legitimatising quarries.

Based in Yatala Queensland, the Civil Rent division offers innovative fleet and asset solutions, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality equipment and exceptional customer

service. Civil Rent supplies and maintains a modern and efficient fleet for internal and external projects and specialised quarrying equipment for the Group’s quarrying operations.

“Civil Rent’s commitment to quality ensures that clients can rely on our equipment to deliver excellent results on their projects. Our team of skilled technicians possess extensive knowledge and expertise across all equipment types,” he adds.

Established in 2017, the Civil Rent team now manages and maintains

SEE COMMUNITY INITIATIVES Across SEE Group, projects and corporate community initiatives are the backbone to make a direct positive impact on the environment and developing communities. By providing voluntary contributions in the form of sponsorships, funding, small grants, and donations, we have an instantaneous impact on communities in real time.

“It is important to the Group and our people that we align with our local communities, and our communities have access to our social investment program.”

The SEE Group social investment program spans from local pest fishing events to manage invasive species in our waterways to the six-year partnership with the Gold Coast Titans who have aligned values and corporate goals.

This year alone the company has supported: • Gold Coast Titans (rugby league, netball) • Tweed Heads Seagulls (rugby league) • Clontarf Foundation • The Busy School • Currumbin Wildlife Animal Hospital • North Burleigh Surf Club • Flagstone Tigers • Yatala Christmas Carols • Tenterfield Westpac Rescue Helicopter • National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) • Burleigh Cricket Club • Battle of the Border Cross-fit • Tenterfield Autumn Festival • Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce

a modern fleet of construction machinery including highway trucks, as well as 230 light vehicles across Queensland and Northern NSW. “We maintain a comprehensive inventory of over 150 pieces of modern equipment and our fleet is specifically designed to suit customer requirements.”

Civil Rent has diversified to deliver bespoke engineered equipment solutions, which includes the in-house design and fabrication of specialised attachments for heavy equipment and high capacity crushing and screening equipment.

Finally, in 2019 SEE Group extended its quarrying and material supply processes with the acquisition of DMC Quarries in Tenterfield NSW. DMC is a wellestablished quarry across the New England region, and has been supplying bulk materials for over 40 years to specialty markets.

DMC’s products include the supply of decorative coloured stone resources to large landscaping, decorative, and architectural concrete markets and supply of construction materials such as roadbase and aggregates.

AGILITY IN EXPANSION SEE’s goal for the coming year is not to specifically grow its revenue but to continue to expand and diversify its offering for its clients.

“Our unique strength as a company lies in our robust and vertically-integrated, self-perform model, setting us apart from our competitors,” shares Barnes.

This approach enables SEE to consistently deliver optimal outcomes to its clients, as the company prides itself on delivering cost-effective solutions that provide excellent value for money.

The majority of the company’s recent upturn in revenue can simply be attributed to an increase in repeat work from SEE’s existing clients.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 117

INFRASTRUCTURE DIVISION: LOGANLEA ROAD UPGRADE CLIENT: Logan City Council DURATION: February 2023 to October 2024 KEY PROJECT STATS: • The award of Loganlea Road is SEE Civil’s largest awarded road infrastructure project • Four major signalised traffic intersection upgrades • Complex traffic staging widening four lane major arterial road to six lanes • Over 20,000t of asphalt to be laid (eight football fields in size) • 90,000t of pavement materials • 60,000t of imported fill

It remains a great point of pride for the company to have maintained and nurtured such great relationships with its clients, and in turn, these customers trust SEE and keep wanting to return and collaborate.

In terms of investment, SEE’s strategy has been to focus on providing the resources to aid its continued growth and to enable capabilities. A key component of this strategy is to continue to increase its plant and equipment fleet.

• Over 5,000m3 of concrete

KEY ONGOING PROJECTS

• Self-perform major bridge works

SEE has meticulously collated an impressive portfolio of projects.

One that the company is particularly proud of is the ongoing work on the Flagstone Residential Estate from its Urban Division. The client for this project is PEET Limited, with Colliers as the consultant. Flagstone Estate

• 10km of pavement drains • Cycleway added • 25,000 trees and shrubs • Protection for material inflation

118 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

is a satellite city near Jimboomba, where the development forms part of the greater Flagstone priority development area. At completion, Flagstone will have around 12,000 homes as well as a 126ha commercial centre and is predicted to be home to around 30,000 people by 2043. SEE Civil’s initial scope of works includes bulk earthworks and 11 residential development stages (approximately 360lots). The division has also been working with PEET Ltd to deliver rolling packages of work since early-2018.

Elsewhere, SEE’s Urban Division is also working on the Covella Residential Estate for AVID, with Egis in the consultancy role. SEE is proud to be the sole civil contractor for the Covella Greenbank master planned community residential subdivision located in the heart of Greenbank.

SEE GROUP CONSTRUCTION

product provided the solution.

Significant earthworks have been undertaken and this has included drill, blast, and crush processes. The onsite crushing, using SEE Civil equipment, has allowed the production of drainage aggregates which were used on the project.

Earthwork cut operations were undertaken at production rates of up to 9,500m3 per day to achieve the programme, and extensive civil works and external infrastructure upgrades have also been undertaken to facilitate the development of large industrial and commercial facilities.

THE SEE GROUP DIFFERENCE INTEGRATION – SEE’s integrated business structure allows the company to create complete construction solutions, from start to finish.

RELATIONSHIPS – The company prides itself on its strong

The houses are tucked away within 50ha of lush green bushland just 12 minutes from Springfield lakes. At present, the project works consist of mass bulk earthworks and civil works, external road infrastructure upgrades, construction of a new sewage pumping station, and the management of vegetation retention and clearing.

Finally, SEE’s Urban Division continues to work towards completion of the Empire Industrial Estate project for The Stephens Group, with Gassman Development Perspectives as the consultant.

SEE Civil is proud to have been the sole source civil contractor on the Empire Industrial Estate since its very first sod turning in April 2015.

The project required a substantial retaining wall system up to 10m in height, where SEE’s RockBlock

relationships that it has built with clients and suppliers.

CAPABILITY – SEE’s capabilities cover all aspects of the civil construction industry.

INNOVATION – The company tackles construction issues headon, using innovative thinking.

THE POWER TO THRIVE As a family-owned business, SEE strives to create a work environment where its staff are not only motivated and engaged, but also experience a sense of fulfilment in their contributions to the organisation.

“We have aimed to create a thriving work environment, where we focus on empowering and recognising our employees. We ensure clear communication and transparency

to provide clarity on company goals and individual contributions,” Barnes reveals.

In this way, SEE encourages autonomy in its teams, allowing them to take ownership of their work and seek growth opportunities through training and development programs.

The company makes sure employee efforts are regularly acknowledged and rewarded, whether through praise, awards, or promotions.

“We participate in feedback sessions and performance reviews to aid in the personal and professional growth of our teams, and we also prioritise a healthy work-life balance and advocate for an inclusive and diverse workplace,” Barnes continues.

Whether involving its employees in decision-making processes and exploring flexible work arrangements to suit their needs, or conducting employee surveys to gather feedback and contribute to the continuous improvement of these strategies, SEE is demonstrating its commitment to valuing their voices and contributions.

Alongside its dedication to creating an optimum working environment for its people, SEE is proud to partner with numerous subcontractors and suppliers that it has been working with for a large portion of the company’s 35-year history.

“I believe that these supply chain relationships are key to our success and have been an important asset during our growth in the industry” Barnes closes.

SEE’s strong reputation within the construction industry is backed by its ability to build strong and honest relationships with its clients across a range of sectors. It is this quality that looks set to ensure continued prosperity at the company for many years to come.

SEE GROUP Tel: (07) 5671 9601 info@seecivil.com.au seegroup.com.au APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 119

EQUANS ANZ CONSTRUCTION

E M P OW

TR

Patrick Guedel, CEO of EQUANS ANZ, discusses supporting the energy, digital, and industrial transition in Australia and New Zealand Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Ryan Gray

120 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

WERING

RANSITIONS A

ustralia and New Zealand are growing markets where quality of service and technology are highly important.

The construction industry in these two countries is recovering well after

the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, however a prevailing and ongoing challenge is that of access to talent and a shortage of skills.

In saying that, it remains a very exciting environment to operate in

precisely because of its challenges and opportunities. In this context, EQUANS ANZ is well positioned to succeed.

A world leader in the energy and services sector, EQUANS provides excellent technical expertise in the APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 121

EQUANS ANZ CONSTRUCTION

APAC OUTLOOK: HOW IMPORTANT ARE PARTNERS, SUPPLIERS, AND STAFF TO YOUR SUCCESS? Patrick Guedel, CEO: “Our industry is a value chain where each part is critical, whether it’s suppliers, staff, clients, consulting engineers, or financial and insurance partners.

“We see ourselves not only as a service provider, but also as a coordinator of different stakeholders to deliver successful projects. In particular, our relationship with suppliers goes well beyond a buying and selling transaction.

“More and more, it is based on collaboration and partnership, with a view to delivering the quality of service that our clients expect together. At the end of the day, although this industry is driven by technical ability and expertise, it is primarily a people-based business.”

design, installation, maintenance, and operation of multi-technical facilities in six complementary areas, namely electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), cooling and fire protection, mechanical and robotics, digital and ICT, and facility management.

Combined, this extensive expertise allows EQUANS to offer efficient and optimised solutions at all stages of the 122 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

energy chain, from production and storage to transport and usage.

“EQUANS partners with clients to design and engineer bespoke systems that meet their unique needs and operates across the whole building and infrastructure space. Our knowledge of our clients’ businesses enables us to support them in their energy, industrial, and digital transitions,” opens Patrick Guedel,

CEO of EQUANS ANZ. The global group occupies a leading position in Europe and a strong presence in North and South America as well as Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand, where EQUANS ANZ operates in 17 locations across all states, territories, and islands and employs just under 1,000 members of staff.

“Our in-house technicians install the systems and carry out operations and maintenance,” outlines Guedel, who himself has worked in different countries across multiple continents, having started his career in technical services more than 25 years ago.

MILESTONE ACQUISITION EQUANS was acquired in October 2022 by Bouygues, a key milestone in the development of the latter as it becomes a world leader in the promising multi-technical services market at the heart of the environmental, industrial, and digital transitions.

Schneider Electric,

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EQUANS ANZ CONSTRUCTION

“ T H E B O U YG U E S AC Q U I S I T I O N B R O U G H T F I N A N C I A L S T R E N G T H A N D S TA B I L I T Y AT A T I M E W H E N T H E I N D U S T R Y H A D S U F F E R E D F R O M A L O N G P E R I O D O F L O C K D O W N S R E L AT E D T O T H E C O V I D - 1 9 P A N D E M I C ; T H E T I M I N G C O U L D N ’ T H AV E B E E N B E T T E R ” – P AT R I C K G U E D E L , C E O , E Q U A N S A N Z

Joining Bouygues offers a tremendous opportunity to create a global leader with strong local roots that can play a key role in meeting the challenges of these transitions, helping to deliver more sustainable and energy-efficient growth, and supporting customers as they switch to a low-carbon model.

To create this new global leader, 124 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Bouygues’ Energies & Services arm merged with those of EQUANS in January 2023. This new business segment will generate around €17 billion in sales and employ around 97,000 people in over 20 countries.

Operating in a resilient and promising market, the new entity has many decisive strengths, such as its position as a leading force in

the multi-technical services market, strong local footprint in targeted countries, acknowledged expertise and brands, and increased capacity to design and roll out innovative and sustainable products and services.

“On the face of it, the change of shareholder doesn’t make any difference to EQUANS ANZ,” Guedel states.

“However, having a parent company that is totally committed to the construction and infrastructure environment is a key motivator for our teams.”

The new entity has the leverage to grow its business and increase margins through synergies and operational efficiency plans.

Bouygues’ strength, combined

with its high-quality labour relations and robust ethical values, will also accelerate growth for the new entity.

“The Bouygues acquisition brought financial strength and stability at a time when the industry had suffered from a long period of lockdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic; the timing couldn’t have been better,” says Guedel.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE As part of a long-standing relationship established in 2002, EQUANS ANZ delivers planned and reactive mechanical maintenance services for one of Australia’s most famous buildings, the Sydney Opera House.

With its iconic silhouette, the Sydney Opera House has been unfurling its concrete sails across the APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 125

harbour for more than half a century, welcoming nearly 11 million visitors annually.

Providing quality support 365 days a year, a permanent on-site team of EQUANS ANZ technicians is required to maintain different temperature setpoints throughout the facility.

Temperature and humidity are critical to musical instruments, as when the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is on stage in the Concert Hall, it must be 22.5°C to ensure the instruments stay in tune.

Throughout the partnership, EQUANS ANZ’s on-site mechanical services team has worked closely 126 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ B E I N G P A R T O F A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L G R O U P G I V E S U S ACC E SS TO T E C H N O LO G I E S A N D TA L E N T S F R O M O V E R S E A S ” – P AT R I C K G U E D E L , C E O , E Q U A N S A N Z

with the Sydney Opera House to introduce whole-of-life asset management and lifecycle planning, delivering over 750 project installations and upgrades while improving the overall performance of existing assets.

“Committed to a long-term partnership, EQUANS ANZ has

been working daily with the site’s management team to maintain the ventilation and air conditioning systems,” Guedel informs us.

“The air conditioning equipment uses seawater from the bay for cooling, a rare and innovative system that goes back over 50 years to when the building was constructed.”

EQUANS ANZ CONSTRUCTION

experience in the technical and engineering space over the years, as well as the management of large construction fitouts. Additionally, EQUANS ANZ was selected for its capabilities in building information modelling (BIM), excellent occupational health and safety (OHS) record, and the competitive cost of its offering.

The significant AV upgrade commenced in December 2021, and major works were recently completed in August this year.

“This project was a big responsibility for us because the system is key to the spectator experience at this great venue,” emphasises Guedel.

EQUANS ANZ’s key investments at the moment, meanwhile, are to support its capabilities in Australia and New Zealand to provide excellent service to customers across all states and branches.

“In particular, we want to support national clients who need reliable service providers across the country with consistently high levels of quality.”

EMPOWERING PEOPLE

MARVEL STADIUM For years, EQUANS ANZ engineers and technicians have also contributed to the renovation of the audio-visual (AV) installations at Marvel Stadium in the Docklands area of Melbourne, integrating the management of all screens, speakers, and lighting into a single digital platform.

EQUANS ANZ was selected for the project because of its technical offering across several different and challenging elements, such as management, tracking, construction, commissioning, programming, and engineering.

The company has demonstrated its

EQUANS ANZ is recognised as a leader in the industry because of its technologies and the quality of its services.

However, a key differentiator for the company is the ability to recruit, develop, and retain talent, offering careers that empower talented individuals to work in dynamic teams across many fields.

“Being part of an international group gives us access to technologies and talents from overseas,” notes Guedel.

Whether an employee’s background is in technical services, facility maintenance, or a business support function, EQUANS ANZ knows that they can play a big part in supporting the world’s energy, digital, and industrial transitions.

As such, the company invests in its team members to nurture their skills

and make them successful both inside and outside of work.

Equally, EQUANS ANZ offers crossfunctional opportunities that support employees at all stages of their career, and better serve customers who need innovative integrated solutions from a dedicated team of problem solvers.

“More and more, we are identified as a good place to work where development and career growth are a reality,” Guedel tells us.

The company is also committed to being a place where people are proud to work and feel rewarded for their contributions in an environment that supports engaged, diverse, and inclusive teams.

“We actively encourage women and minorities to take an interest in the industry and bring diversity into our workforce. It’s a fascinating field, and they will be positively surprised by the many opportunities that are available,” he adds.

EQUANS ANZ is therefore as much about delivering a safe and attractive workplace for every team member as it is about delivering great outcomes for customers and the business.

Continuing to invest in staff is one of EQUANS ANZ’s main priorities, along with introducing new technologies to the marketplace, delivering topquality projects, and guaranteeing a high level of service.

By the end of this calendar year, EQUANS ANZ also aims to implement its Reconciliation Action Plan, a significant, meaningful, and sustainable step for the company.

“These are very practical and concrete priorities, which is what our customers expect from us,” Guedel concludes.

Tel: AU +61 1300 036 443 NZ +64 0508 232 1338 info.anz@equans.com equans.com.au APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 127

128 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

ENABLE TECHNOLOGY

BUILDING A D I G I TA L H AV E N With a firm commitment to environmental stewardship and elite customer support, Enable is setting a new benchmark for the telecommunications sector in New Zealand. We get the whole story from COO, Ed Beattie Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Josh Hyland

F

ibre broadband offers unrivalled connection speeds to people and communities around the globe.

Across the modern world, technology continues to change how societies function. The incredible prowess of fibre broadband technology is a leader of this transformative shift, offering unparalleled connectivity, innovation, and community development.

Possessing this highly influential power to connect, Enable is the fibre broadband network provider for greater Ōtautahi, the Māori name for the city of Christchurch, New Zealand.

Since 2011, Enable has been providing Christchurch and

the surrounding area with fibre broadband – reaching more than 200,000 businesses, homes, and schools.

“We are 100 percent owned by the local council which means we are owned by Cantabrians. Day in and day out, we are connecting people to critical infrastructure,” introduces Ed Beattie, COO of Enable.

As the network provider for greater Christchurch, Enable has worked tirelessly to install its services as part of the national ultra-fast broadband initiative. The company builds and installs the network, and local internet service providers then deliver their broadband services over Enable’s network to end users.

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ENABLE TECHNOLOGY

Resolutely focused only on one region, Enable is wholly owned

by Christchurch City Holdings Limited, the commercial arm of the Christchurch City Council.

“Our fibre network is the essential enabler of an economically and socially vibrant, connected, innovative, and globally competitive greater Christchurch,” Beattie shares enthusiastically.

After joining Enable in September 2018 to lead the operations team, Beattie is a seasoned senior executive with almost 40 years in the telecommunications (telecoms) industry.

Having worked at the forefront of several significant broadband initiatives since the 1990s, he brings with

him a drive to create a strong sense of community within the business and the community Enable operates.

SMART CITY PLANNING Located at the meeting point of urban planning and the development of new technology, lies the enthralling concept of smart cities. These innovative communities exist as urban areas using the latest technology to improve the lives of people who live there.

Fibre broadband serves as the crucial backbone of these cities, laying the groundwork for a smarter, more interconnected future. In this way, Christchurch’s emphasis on fibre broadband infrastructure is pivotal in shaping its path toward a futuristic

and effective smart city, a journey that Enable is embarking on in order to transform the area for the benefit of its residents.

The company is always looking to make the lives of its customers easier and consistently seeks new ways to refine what it can do to help them.

“We spend a lot of time introducing new technologies to our customers and make it easier for people in our community to connect with each other, live their lives, and complete daily tasks, such as mobile banking that now relies on technology so heavily,” Beattie elaborates.

Enable’s robust fibre network is supporting Christchurch to become a smart 21st-century city. This requires

“OUR FIBRE NETWORK IS THE ESSENTIAL E N A B L E R O F A N E C O N O M I C A L LY A N D S O C I A L LY V I B R A N T, C O N N E C T E D , I N N O VAT I V E , A N D G L O B A L LY C O M P E T I T I V E G R E AT E R C H R I STC H U R C H ” – E D B E AT T I E , C O O , E N A B L E

130 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

DATAMETRICS BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE FOSTERING COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS, TRANSFORMING BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE INTO BUSINESS SUCCESS In the ever-evolving landscape of business intelligence, what truly sets DATAMetrics apart is our unwavering commitment to forging collaborative partnerships with our clients. We don’t merely provide solutions; we embark on a journey with our clients, hand in hand, to navigate the intricate realm of data-driven decision-making.

www.datametrics.co.nz

ENABLE TECHNOLOGY

Internet of Things (IoT) technology, allowing everyday objects to share information and work together without people having to do everything manually. Sensors and applications help collect real-time data that can be communicated through the internet, creating areas that are safer, cleaner, and greener while making better use of resources.

Enable is at the forefront of reliable, high-quality connectivity for a wide range of devices and customer needs.

The company provides the backbone of the city to help run summer concerts, make traffic flow as freely as possible, provide security via CCTV cameras, and, of course, Enable’s free public Wi-Fi network in central Christchurch has been extremely well used by both residents and visitors since it was launched.

“A smarter everything is on its way so it’s great that we have the network in place to keep Christchurch ahead of the pack and attract people and businesses who can make the most of 132 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

the world-class service we provide.”

Additionally, a reliable broadband fibre network not only benefits residents but also bolsters the local economy. As a result, businesses gain a competitive edge through seamless cloud-based operations, instant communication, and data analytics.

Similarly, as more and more people start to work remotely, Christchurch is becoming a great place to set up a digital base and be able to collaborate globally from the comfort of home.

COLLECTIVE CARE Enable’s employees allow the company to deliver its purpose of connecting its local communities with unlimited opportunities. Alongside a community-driven focus for the people of Christchurch, Enable sees its employees as the lifeblood of its business.

“More than anything, what truly makes working at Enable so great is our team environment. We’re a tight-knit team that looks out for each

Building connections and building joy with Enable.

Beyond the technology, our partnership with Enable is a story of collaboration and purpose. Networks are not just about data. They’re about building connections that lead to moments of joy.

Know more about how we build joy here

L2X. Your partner for digital transformation in the APAC Region.

ENABLE TECHNOLOGY

other and emphasises well-being.

Sticking together allows us to deliver great outcomes for the people of Christchurch,” Beattie tells us.

“Whether you are out in the field or one of the managers in our business, we all have a part to play for our community, and that’s what makes being a part of Enable the best,” he adds.

Recently, for the benefit of its people, Enable has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving the working lives of its valued employees.

“Focusing on our people has always been a top priority, and we’re making waves in this area. We offer numerous other benefits to our people, such as leave purchasing and an annual wellbeing and sustainability allowance, as well as additional paid parental leave.”

With flexible working arrangements aimed at creating a greater work-life

134 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

balance, an annual paid ‘RefreshMe’ day off, a well-being and sustainability allowance, and a monthly broadband allowance for all employees, the company is attempting to enhance and upgrade the day-to-day experience of its team.

SUSTAINABILITY ACROSS THE NETWORK Enable is committed to being a force for good.

Pioneering sustainability in telecoms, Enable is now a Certified B Corporation, a particular point of pride for the entire company.

“Here at Enable, we are proud to be a part of the global B Corp movement. This significant milestone not only reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship but also sets a new benchmark for the telecoms sector as a whole in New

Zealand,” shares Beattie.

In terms of what it means to be a Certified B Corporation, the title is administered by the non-profit, B Lab, and acts as evidence that the company is meeting the high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency in a range of factors from employee benefits to governance and the environment.

To become certified, companies must document their impact and undergo an independent verification process every three years to achieve and maintain certification.

A Certified B Corporation is assessed across five categories: governance, workers, customers, community, and the environment.

“We actively engage with local communities and support initiatives that foster education and digital

Cable Ways has grown to be a trusted brand across New Zealand business sectors which include telecommunications, data networks, utilities, transportation, security and entertainment.

Our products are designed and manufactured at our Auckland facilities, where we have capabilities in computer modelling, engineering, metal and plastic fabrication, mechanical and electrical assembly. We offer integrated solutions, are ready to fit your hardware and can accommodate larger production runs along with low volume bespoke custom products. By utilising the TOC and Kaizen in our daily production, we ensure a reduction of constraints and continuous improvement. We share these benefits in the form of focused quality products and affordable costs. sales@cable-ways.co.nz | cable-ways.co.nz

A REPUTATION BUILT OVER TIME

38 years of experience Innovative ideas Cost-effective Dedicated team

ENABLE VALUES • Smash boundaries - Work together to create bold new outcomes • Keep it simple and fresh Innovation loves clarity • Own the experience - Take charge and make great happen now • Show the love - Care for each other, customers, the local community, and the environment

136 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

ENABLE TECHNOLOGY

inclusion. Enable also collaborates with schools, non-profit organisations, and community groups to make a positive difference in the lives of Cantabrians,” he continues.

Elsewhere, through considerable investment in energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels and responsible waste management practices, Enable is significantly reducing its electricity consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation.

“We’re on track to be a net zero emission company by 2030,” he concludes proudly.

Furthermore, the future of internet connectivity in Christchurch is undoubtedly shining bright, thanks to its investment in fibre technology and the industry-defining work carried out

by Enable.

ENABLE info@enable.net.nz www.enable.net.nz APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 137

EMPYRION DC TECHNOLOGY

The Empyrion DC team

NEXT G D I G I TA L I N F R A P L AT F O

G E N E R AT I O N ASTRUCTURE ORM IN ASIA Mark Fong, CEO

With the data centre industry rapidly evolving, Mark Fong, CEO, speaks to us about how Empyrion DC is leading the way in an environment of intensifying rack density, efficiency, and sustainability Writer: Lauren Kania Project Manager: Dennis Morales

T

he data centre industry as a whole has been the subject of unparalleled growth over the course of the past few years.

This can be primarily attributed to the increased reliance on digital technologies, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and the undeniable explosion of artificial intelligence (AI), which is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.8 percent over the next eight years.

At the same time, there has been a greater regulatory push towards data localisation by markets in the Asia Pacific region, including Malaysia and Indonesia.

Compounded with the exceedingly tight data centre supply in key digital hubs of Asia, including Japan, South APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 139

EMPYRION DC TECHNOLOGY

Korea, and Singapore, this is where Empyrion DC comes in.

Empyrion DC, a Singaporeheadquartered data centre developer and operator, is a next generation Asia-focused digital infrastructure platform committed to sustainability.

“Empyrion DC aims to be the recognised green data centre partner supporting hyperscale, scale, enterprise, and network customers in Asia through innovation and customer-centricity,” opens Mark Fong, CEO of Empyrion DC. “We build where there is resilient demand from cloud and major IT enterprises and uphold a philosophy to ‘Think Global, Act Local.’ This helps us to focus on our mission to deliver centrally-located facilities that offer a rich and diverse ecosystem of connectivity and cloud providers in developed and emerging Asia Pacific markets.”

2023 AI STUDY BY MARKETSANDMARKETS: • The market size value in 2023 stands at USD$150.2 billion and is expected to grow 36.8 percent by 2030.

• AI is revolutionising multiple industries, positioning itself as a key driver for

Green walls at SG1 Dodid Data Centre

emerging technologies such as big data, robotics, and IoT. • The rise of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and AI art generators highlights its mainstream prominence.

• With its continued trajectory, AI is set to persist as a powerful technological innovator, propelling advancements in the foreseeable future.

• The short-term roadmap (2023-2025) includes advancement in generative models for content creation and increasing transparency and interpretability through explainable AI methods in decision-making.

• The mid-term roadmap (2025-2028) includes more sophisticated generative AI models that boost quality and diversity, and advancements in federated optimisation algorithms and secure aggregation methods.

• The long-term roadmap (2028-2030) includes AI-generated content reaching human-level sophistication, thus redefining artificial and human creativity, and a wide deployment of federated learning to empower secure and scalable solutions across industries.

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With over 23 years of experience in technology and the data centre industry, Fong has built leadership teams from the ground up and is intimately involved in capital raising, strategy and corporate development, investments, construction and operations, sales and marketing, and human talent development.

With vast experience in regional leadership positions with top technology companies, Fong is now leading Empyrion DC to capitalise on the increased regional demand for digital infrastructure, with a specific focus on investing in technology to deliver state-of-the-art green data centres that are also well-equipped to handle AI workloads of the future.

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WHY US? Why should you choose Eetarp? In an era where data is everything, we understand the importance of reliability, efficiency, and precision. We are here to provide you with all three. Join us in shaping the future of Data Center management. Together, we can revolutionize the way you handle data, optimize your resources, and ultimately drive success for your organization. With Eetarp and Graphene by your side, the possibilities are limitless.

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MICHAEL BREUER Vice President Bender APAC “Today, data's significance is undeniable, yet unmanaged data is transforming from an asset into a liability. At Eetarp, we ensure that this won't happen, empowering you with full access to opportunities through our creative team.”

EMPYRION DC TECHNOLOGY

GREEN BY DESIGN, FUTURE-READY Empyrion DC stands out from the crowded technology platform for myriad reasons, one of which is the “Green by Design” model that has been built into the DNA of the company since its inception.

“We pride ourselves on being Green by Design, where we adopt environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations and integrate them into everything we do. There is a key focus on efficiency, reduced power usage effectiveness (PUE), and water usage effectiveness (WUE) right from project inception,” expands Fong.

“Due to AI, we are seeing rack densities increase from a standard four to six kilowatts (kW) per rack to 20 kW per rack. This necessitates a change in cooling technology to

Engineers overlooking rooftop photovoltaic panels

142 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

support higher-density workloads that need to be energy and waterefficient for future IT workloads.”

Being sustainable is more critical than ever in today’s climate.

Empyrion DC has been investing into technologies such as the use of advanced cooling systems, high efficiency building integrated photovoltaic panels (BIPV), and exterior plant walls on its facade that reduce ambient temperature within its facility.

In an attempt to measure ESG effectiveness, each successive generation of the company’s green data centres has also been working towards reducing carbon emissions over the market average and ensuring energy usage efficiency with a target PUE of 1.30 or less.

Empyrion DC also ensures that it attains local and globally recognised

certifications accredited by industry bodies such as the International Standards Organisation and Uptime Institute as a benchmark against industry leading practices.

WHY EMPYRION DC? “We are a portfolio company of Seraya Partners, an Asia infrastructure fund that invests in digital infrastructure and energy transition companies,” notes Fong.

This ability to work with sister platforms in energy transition to achieve net zero targets allows a cross-synergy that offers opportunities other companies are unable to compete with.

Leveraging its superior local knowledge and partner networks, Empyrion DC acquires and develops projects in key locations, with a hyperfocus on high-growth Asian cities with

KR1 Gangnam Data Centre

strong demand but limited land and power.

“It’s all about being relevant and right sized for the markets that we enter into, with an eye on understanding our customers’ needs and being able to offer flexible solutions to partner them in their digital transformation journey.”

Specifically, Empyrion DC’s bespoke solutions range from 100 kW to multiple megawatts (MW), including the engineering ability to design for high-density workloads and the local knowledge to optimally support each customer’s scale-up across the region.

This is all alongside the company’s on-demand technical resources to perform a variety of onsite 24/7 IT infrastructure-related tasks to ensure that customers’ systems are

“ E M PY R I O N D C A I M S TO B E T H E R E CO G N I S E D G R E E N - F O C U S E D D ATA C E N T R E P A R T N E R SUPPORTING HYPERSCALE, SCALE, E N T E R P R I S E , A N D N E T WO R K C U STO M E R S I N A S I A T H R O U G H I N N O VAT I O N A N D C U STO M E R - C E N T R I C I T Y ” – MARK FONG, CEO, EMPYRION DC

continually up and running.

The strong implementation capabilities of Empyrion DC enables it to easily and comprehensively meet the current upswing in demand in data centres in the Asia Pacific region, with the strongest demand growing in metros that have high internet penetration and rapid adoption of technologies such as 5G.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS With the staggering growth of the data centre industry having no end in sight, ensuring the continuation of advancement and innovation is a necessity for businesses to thrive.

Empyrion DC has taken this into consideration and continues to emphasize the importance of hiring the best talent across Asia.

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EMPYRION DC TECHNOLOGY

Operations team conducting checks on cooling systems

Security

144 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Operations

SG1 Dodid Data Centre

“We have grown to a team of more than 15 people in 12 months across three regional offices and are continuing to strengthen the team,” says Fong.

“As a company, we are growing aggressively. We have established two assets in two extremely supplytight Asian markets in less than two years. We are continuing to support customer growth throughout Asia Pacific and to expand into more developed and emerging markets with new data centre builds.”

Empyrion DC currently has an existing Uptime Tier III-certified data centre, SG1 Dodid Data Centre, located in one of Asia Pacific’s top data centre markets – Singapore. The company is currently constructing its second project, KR1 Gangnam Data Centre, in the business district of

“ I T ’ S A L L A B O U T B E I N G R E L E VA N T AND RIGHT SIZED FOR THE MARKETS T H AT W E E N T E R I N T O , W I T H A N E Y E O N U N D E R S TA N D I N G O U R C U S T O M E R S ’ N E E D S A N D B E I N G A B L E TO O F F E R F L E X I B L E S O L U T I O N S TO PA R T N E R T H E M I N T H E I R D I G I TA L T R A N S F O R M AT I O N J O U R N E Y ” – MARK FONG, CEO, EMPYRION DC

Gangnam in Seoul, South Korea, set to be ready for service in 2025.

“We are excited about our upcoming 40 MW KR1 project, which will welcome customers in 2025. It is the first new data centre project in the Gangnam district in the last decade and we are seeing strong demand.

Its central location makes it an ideal place for hyperscale, enterprises, and network companies,” expands Fong.

This nine-story, carrier-neutral data centre facility will install building integrated photovoltaic panels (BIPV) and will leverage in-house expertise in energy management to reduce its carbon footprint and attain worldclass energy efficiency standards.

Empyrion DC’s SG1 campus has already received the BCA-IMDA Green Mark (Platinum) Award for new data centres in recognition of its green efforts, and KR1 is being built with the same sustainability at the forefront to reduce its carbon footprint.

Looking ahead, Empyrion DC

intends to actively explore a strong pipeline of projects and plans to develop or acquire more data centre facilities over the next three to five years to strengthen its position as a future-looking customer-relevant APAC data centre platform.

With global management expertise spanning decades of experience in building, operating, and delivering to hyperscale and enterprise requirements, it’s no wonder that Empyrion DC is leading the way in technological advancement and the future of sustainability in data centres across Asia Pacific.

hello@empyriondc.com www.empyriondc.com APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 145

EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

CHARGING TOWA R D S A N E N E R GYEFFICIENT FUTURE Committed to renewable energy, Evie Networks is shifting the paradigm of electric vehicles as it installs charging points across Australia’s towns, cities, and highways. We explore this greener transport option with CEO, Chris Mills Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Jack Belton

A

fter launching its first charging site in 2019, Evie Networks endeavours to create a convenient and dependable electric vehicle (EV) network while building a nationally trusted brand with a competitive advantage.

Backed by the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund, Evie Networks builds, owns, and operates an expanding network of over 150 fast-charging stations, with charging equipment supplied by Tritium, in which Australian Business Review Weekly (BRW) rich lister and entrepreneur Trevor St Baker is also a strategic investor.

“I can safely say that Trevor St Baker is one of the first billionaires that I’ve worked with who takes

the time to understand what is going on and is prepared to be persuaded by alternative views. He’s supportive, helpful, and politically well-connected. We enjoy an ability to be strong advocates for the take up of EVs in Australia throughout the governmental, regulatory, and political spaces,” opens Chris Mills, CEO of Evie Networks.

With sites spanning the East Coast from Townsville in Far North Queensland and encompassing the island state of Tasmania, Adelaide in South Australia, Perth on the West Coast, and Darwin on the North Coast, Evie Networks’ ubiquitous presence ensures EV drivers can go vast distances with the confidence that they can recharge.

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EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

“Our first programme of work aimed to link the major capital cities of Australia. We wanted to reduce the range anxiety that exists when people consider changing to an EV; they want to know how they can drive from Melbourne to Sydney.”

Evie Networks has expanded its programme to include metropolitan facilities after securing a government grant to help build highway sites connecting capital cities. Today, the company has reached the stage beyond assistance and is building its own long-term network plan, independent of grant funding.

“We offer fast and ultra-fast 148 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ D R I V E R S N E E D T O F E E L C O N F I D E N T, S E C U R E , A N D C O M F O R TA B L E G O I N G T O O U R C H A R G I N G S I T E S , S O W E N E E D TO M A K E T H E M AVA I L A B L E , R E L I A B L E , A N D I N A S A F E A N D S E C U R E L O C AT I O N ” – CHRIS MILLS, CEO, EVIE NETWORKS

charging, so our chargers typically start at 50 kilowatts (kW) and go up to 350kW. The kW rating of a charger is usually the number of kilometres (km) put into the battery within 10

minutes,” Mills explains.

“The 350kW ultra-fast chargers are located on the highway sites because drivers want the same type of experience as petrol users – plug in,

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EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

have something to eat, come back 15 minutes later, and the car is topped up and ready to go.

“Not many of today’s available cars can take these high charging speeds, so the 350kW chargers are future-proofing the next generation of vehicles,” he adds.

A CHANGE OF DIRECTION Research suggests that EVs are at an inflection point in Australia. An investigation into renewables and EVs in more mature markets by the New Energy Finance Group of Bloomberg found that the typical significant increase of EVs happens when they make up approximately five percent

EVIE NETWORKS’ WORKPLACE VALUES Four commitments that underpin Evie Networks are to be customerfocused, mission-driven, work better together, and be tenaciously creative. As a company that revolves around its values, tenacity is essential to the workforce.

“It could be a power company, government department, or the local planning authority stopping you. Therefore, we need creative and tenacious people who can achieve a favourable outcome. When people come to work with Evie Networks, they are going to be challenged; they need to circumvent a problem and continue to make progress.

“I am looking for people who don’t get flummoxed by ambiguity. They will overcome it by assisting in a structured way. We need people who are valuable contributors to the business and who will resonate with contributing back to the planet.

“I have some very clever young people working with me. We have key skill groups who look at crucial categories such as finance, site acquisition and negotiation, property and product development, cyber security, systems administration, and all the other facets you need to make your company work,” outlines Mills.

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of overall new car sales, accelerating after this point.

“People start to see them as more mainstream. Instead of occasionally noticing a Tesla, EVs are becoming more commonplace and the barriers to taking up such cars are being broken down. Presently, we are tracking new car sales at between seven and eight percent,” Mills informs us. Additionally, with the influx of new models into Australia, the gap between the cost of purchasing an EV compared to a petrol car is narrowing and with petrol prices at record levels, people are recognising the value of changing over to an EV. “Money plays into people’s decision-making when looking at the total cost of ownership, but with purchase prices converging and running costs being much less, coupled with Evie Networks’ site presence, it is a major step forward,” he notes.

Evie Networks plans to have 200 operational sites by the end of 2023, which will go a long way to alleviating range anxiety experienced by EV drivers.

The sense of inflection is also due to the positive attention from the new government. The change in leadership means a much stronger focus on renewables and EVs and more support for net zero targets.

Increased public demand to combat climate change saw a surge in independent candidates being elected into parliament.

The transition to renewable energy has been positively influenced by this strong and growing independent voice within government, which provides the impetus for political parties and incumbents to act effectively. Mills is assured that corporate Australia is also starting to see a drive towards sustainability.

“Businesses have sustainability targets, and interestingly, investment funds also have sustainability mandates. Corporate Australia is

EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

embracing the need to establish and abide by environmentally-friendly operating practices.”

CLEANER AND GREENER OPTIONS With an increased availability of EV models, there are more options for drivers, ranging from expensive high-end performance EVs through to affordable models, coupled with more appealing running costs.

“Our petrol prices are the highest they have been for a while. When you compare the dollars you spend to fill up your car to the cents you pay to fill up your battery, particularly if there is solar on the roof, the battery charge could cost you nothing,” observes Mills.

Although many elements are fuelling the country’s growth in the EV sector, the transition is being particularly accelerated by Evie Networks’ mission to build a reliable, robust, and broad charging network for a cleaner environment.

“All of our chargers are powered by renewable energy. Furthermore, not only do we build charging stations that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but more importantly, they reduce tailpipe emissions in cities, so the boost to public health is enormous,” encourages Mills.

City smog and vehicle emissions cause concern for people who suffer from respiratory problems. As a result of improving the air quality in capital cities, significantly less money is spent on public healthcare.

In addition to plans for 200 operational sites by the end of the calendar year, Evie Networks aims to add another 100 by the end of the financial year.

“Hitting these rollout milestones is important, along with advancing the quality of the Evie Networks app and digital engagement with our customers. Therefore, as the charging network grows, maintaining

the reliability of it gets bigger too,” elaborates Mills.

Evie Networks realises potential problems could arise with more sites, including breakdowns and vandalisation, two issues the company does not want customers to be inconvenienced by. Therefore, improving the level of reliability and maintenance is a priority.

“Drivers need to feel confident,

“ N O T M A N Y O F T O D AY ’ S AVA I L A B L E C A R S C A N TA K E T H E S E H I G H C H A R G I N G S P E E D S , S O T H E 350KW CHARGERS ARE FUTURE-PROOFING T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N O F V E H I C L E S ” – CHRIS MILLS, CEO, EVIE NETWORKS

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 151

EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

152 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

EVIE NETWORKS ENERGY & UTILITIES

secure, and comfortable going to our charging sites, so we need to make them available, reliable, and in a safe and secure location.”

CONVENIENT CHARGING Indeed, Evie Networks continues to strive towards its goals with key objectives. In addition to reliability, the company intends to offer its customers a different experience from what they receive at a petrol station forecourt; it wants to ensure amenities are within easy reach while they wait for their EV to charge.

“When refuelling a car, there is nothing else to do apart from get petrol; however, with electric charging stations, there is a wait whilst topping up your car, so there is potential for someone to pair that with grocery shopping or for refuelling themselves by getting a bite to eat,” shares Mills.

Fundamentally, Evie Networks looks at three sets of criteria when choosing a charging site, the first being easy access no matter what side of the carriageway the driver might be on. Secondly, it has to be safe and secure 24 hours a day, and finally, there has to be facilities or amenities nearby for drivers to use while the EV is charging. The company already partners with fast-food restaurants, shopping centres, nationwide retailers, and grocery outlets to provide this experience to EV drivers.

“It is all about convenience alongside the effort we spend on reliability and network efficiency.

There is a captive audience at EV sites for at least 20 minutes, so it is the perfect partnership. One opportunity that comes with being digitally native is site host offerings, such as a QR code for 10 percent off a hamburger purchase, for example,” he outlines.

In fact, Evie Networks is now in the rollout phase of implementing credit card use via readers at its sites.

Currently, customers download the app, enter their credit card details, then Evie Networks sends a radio

frequency identification (RFID) card to verify the customer’s identity.

However, not everyone wants to become a member, so the company remains in the process of testing the readers.

The convenience of paying by credit card, regardless of whether customers are members, is another innovation that Evie Networks is applying to its sites to make the whole experience more seamless and help secure the future of EVs in mainstream motoring.

Moreover, as Evie Networks buys and sells electricity, it is developing energy management products, as the way electricity is used can impact how much it costs.

“The way that tariffs are structured means if you thoughtlessly use electricity, it can be costly, but if you apply algorithms, you can substantially reduce the average cost per kilowatt hour (kWh), which means a better return on our investment,” Mills concludes.

EVIE NETWORKS info@goevie.com.au evie.com.au APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 153

ONE WITH THE SUN

WAAREE ENERGIES ENERGY & UTILITIES

The flagship company of India’s largest solar module manufacturer, Waaree Energies is committed to quality and sustainability. We find out more with Group CEO, Vivek Srivastava Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Kyle Livingstone

I

ndia is endowed with vast solar power potential.

Indeed, with around 300 days of sunshine every year, the country enjoys some of the best conditions in the world for harnessing solar energy.

With the Indian government striving for 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030, businesses making green energy adoption a priority, and renewable purchase orders (RPOs) coming to the fore, the sector will grow exponentially.

“Solar energy, which a decade ago was a luxury, has now become the most affordable engine for the sustainable energy transition across the globe,” begins the Group CEO of Waaree, Vivek Srivastava.

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Mumbai, the world’s sixth most populous metropolitan area, Waaree is present in over 380 locations across the length and breadth of India and 20 countries worldwide.

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WAAREE ENERGIES ENERGY & UTILITIES

Waaree has supplied over 6 GW of solar modules and commissioned more than 1 GW of solar engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) projects.

The group’s flagship firm is Waaree Energies, one of India’s largest vertically integrated new energy companies and a renowned name in demanding markets such as the US and Europe.

Waaree Energies’ 12 GW of solar module manufacturing capacity at its plants in Chikhil, Surat, and Umbergaon, meanwhile, is the most not only in India but anywhere outside of China.

“What sets us apart is our ability to deliver quality, technologically advanced, high-wattage solar modules while conforming to the most demanding customer standards that go beyond mandatory certifications, including in-line inspections of raw materials,” 156 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

“ S O L A R E N E R G Y, W H I C H A D E C A D E A G O WA S A L U X U R Y, H A S N O W B E C O M E T H E M O ST A F FO R DA B L E E N G I N E FO R T H E S U S TA I N A B L E E N E R G Y T R A N S I T I O N A C R O S S THE GLOBE” – V I V E K S R I VA S TAVA , G R O U P C E O , WA A R E E

Srivastava tells us.

“Our ability to deliver on these expectations is testament to our robust product quality and leadership in this sector, which has translated into high bankability and repeat orders.”

COMMITMENT TO QUALITY The solar modules manufactured

by Waaree Energies, such as monocrystalline, bifacial, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV), flexible, and polycrystalline modules, are the best and most reliable in the

industry with the highest electrical parameters.

The company therefore has a wide array of technologically advanced, quality-assured products, bolstered by having India’s first and only NABL accredited laboratory in which it conducts rigorous testing to consistently delivers high quality.

“Rigorous third-party inspections and independent certifications further add to our credibility among customers,” Srivastava adds.

For modules manufactured and

WAAREE ENERGIES ENERGY & UTILITIES

India’s largest producer of Solar Encapsulation Film

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For More Information:

www.filmtec.in sold in the domestic market, Filmtec Solar is one of the suppliers of EVA sheet to Waaree Energies.

The company has also developed a range of single and three-phase inverters that are unrivalled for their quality, reliability, and efficiency.

These inverters help to convert direct current (DC) from the solar modules into alternating current (AC), which is used by domestic and commercial appliances.

Providing high-quality and costeffective sustainable energy solutions across all markets is the vision of Waaree Energies, to reduce carbon footprints and improve quality of life.

By virtue of its commitment to stakeholders, the company strives for continuous improvement in the quality of its products and services.

“We have always endeavoured to be a manufacturer that is focused on quality rather than quantity,”

emphasises Srivastava.

As a result of this focus on quality, Waaree Energies is alone in having maintained its Tier 1 solar module manufacturer status, per Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), for 28 uninterrupted quarters.

Achieving Tier 1 status quarter upon quarter is not only an illustration of the company’s quality and high efficiency ratings, but also the consistent satisfaction of customers.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 157

WAAREE ENERGIES ENERGY & UTILITIES

“Our unyielding focus on quality and continued improvement is reflected in the higher price points and premiums that our products command,” Srivastava states.

CLOSER TO CUSTOMERS Waaree Energies aligns its sales strategy with the broader objective of promoting clean energy to reduce carbon emissions, help society, and enable the energy transition.

The company’s goal is to extend its role as a solar module manufacturer and build closer relationships with end customers, providing end-to-end solutions that help to reduce the cost of electricity.

The company has observed that, due to constant price fluctuations, customers tend to wait for the price to fall before placing orders for modules.

“At Waaree Energies, we maintain significant stocks of ready-to-ship modules,” assures Srivastava.

“Owing to our readily available modules and closer engagement, we 158 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

will be able to rapidly process orders and provide an impetus for the faster adoption of clean energy solutions.”

To deliver timely and quality solar module installations, maintenance, and troubleshooting, the Waaree Experts initiative enrols, trains, and certifies electricians and skilled technicians.

By helping customers with a reliable system or solution, Waaree Energies is democratising access to solar energy, even in the most remote corners of India.

“Self-sufficiency in solar module manufacturing is critical, and we at Waaree Energies are further expanding our capacity beyond 12 GW to 20 GW and investing significantly in the backward integration of ingots, wafers, cells, and polysilicon,” Srivastava reveals.

“We are commissioning 5.5 GW of cell manufacturing capacity this fiscal year, and another 6 GW from ingot to wafer to cell to module in another 18 months, taking the cumulative

APAC OUTLOOK: WHAT INSIGHT CAN YOU PROVIDE INTO THE FUTURE OF THE SOLAR PV MODULE MARKET IN INDIA? VIVEK SRIVASTAVA, GROUP CEO: “Solar power offers the advantage of being decentralised when compared to other sources of renewable energy.

“For this reason, and due to the potential for employment generation, governments are incentivising this sector further. While there are certain challenges, like the availability of raw materials, concerted efforts by players across the value chain augmented by favourable government policies will help to overcome these hurdles and achieve renewable energy targets ahead of time.

“With our proven track record of delivering projects on time, we are well placed to capitalise on the opportunities and play a leading role in India’s clean energy transition.”

WAAREE ENERGIES ENERGY & UTILITIES

WAAREE ENERGIES SOLAR MODULES – AT A GLANCE Monocrystalline – With high efficiency and power capacity, Waaree Energies’ monocrystalline panels deliver reliable power and more kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy with significantly lower degradation.

Bifacial – Bifacial modules are different from conventional panels as they come with solar cells equipped on both sides.

This mechanism helps to absorb solar energy from both sides, which enhances energy consumption.

BIPV – Integrating solar modules into the building structure, such as the roof or façade, adds architectural flair. Waaree Energies collaborates closely with architects, designers, and consultants to deliver and seamlessly incorporate the most efficient BIPV panels into their projects.

Flexible – Waaree Energies’ semi-flexible solar panels are sleek, long-lasting, and made to adhere to almost any surface, providing a charging option for high-capacity batteries. These modules are available in a range of configurations.

Polycrystalline – With multiple silicon crystals in each cell, polycrystalline modules limit the movement of electrons inside the cells and are more eco-friendly than monocrystalline solar panels.

manufacturing capacity to 20 GW of modules, 11.5 GW of cells, and 6 GW of ingots and wafers,” he concludes.

Waaree Energies is also evolving as an independent power producer (IPP), which will enable the company to sell power directly to end customers.

With grid parity already in reach, the company believes that it can make solar energy even more attractive, cost-effective, and affordable.

WAAREE ENERGIES

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 159

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LAE BISCUIT CO. LTD. FOOD & BEVERAGE

H OW T H E COOKIE CRUMBLES Starting from humble beginnings and a simple desire to create a flavourful snack, Edwin Wong, General Manager of Lae Biscuit Co. Ltd., discusses how the company has now become the largest biscuit producer in the Pacific and is only continuing to grow Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Liam Pye

N

early everybody can look back and vividly Edwin remember spending Wong, General time in the kitchen Manager with family: the smell of fresh ingredients wafting through the air, the sound of clanking pots and pans, the sight of steam rising from a freshly cooked meal, and the feeling of warmth and serenity as you gather with those you love.

Cooking for people you care about brings forth a passion like no other, and this evident devotion and commitment is no more visible than in the core foundation of Lae Biscuit Co. Ltd. (Lae Biscuit).

Having grown to become the Pacific region’s largest biscuit and instant noodle producer for over the past 50 years, Lae Biscuit is a family-owned and family-run business started by Sir Henry F. Chow in 1972 out of a humble bakery located in

Voko Point in Lae, the second largest city in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Edwin Wong, General Manager of Lae Biscuit, has been with the company for over a decade and has always held a sense of excitement when it comes to the food and beverage industry, particularly biscuits.

“I always had a passion for eating biscuits when I was a little kid, and even up until now, I still make sure to have a packet of biscuits beside my bed for midnight snacks,” he opens.

Boasting over 30 years of experience within fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), Wong is an expert in food and beverage manufacturing and notes that in times of crises, biscuits are always the first thing people will pick in a grocery store to bring them immediate comfort.

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 161

LAE BISCUIT CO. LTD. FOOD & BEVERAGE

• Animated crackers pillow pack

system from flour handling to packaging finished goods, and much more.

He has always been interested in the huge profit and market opportunities that are possible both locally and globally within the industry.

“My whole career has been spent in the food and beverage space, and I can foresee huge scope for potential because of new technologies and product developments, specifically in the promotion of healthier products,” Wong explains.

“Additionally, the designers and engineers of production machinery continue to post new and advanced technology which allows for a more efficient operation.”

• Chocolate cookies pillow pack

INSPIRED BY FAMILY

Wong has helped Lae Biscuit enjoy significant growth over the years, introducing five new cracker and instant noodle products, overseeing and managing a USD$38 million cracker line with an automation

LAE BISCUIT PRODUCTS COMING SOON • Hot and Spicy Tomato flavour instant noodles • Hot and Spicy Kimchi flavour instant noodles • Cream crackers

• Butter cookies pillow pack • Ginger cookies multipack

162 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

The founder of Lae Biscuit, Sir Henry F. Chow, is remembered as one of the most prominent entrepreneurs in PNG as well as an extremely generous philanthropist. Starting

his career in ship construction, he soon became engaged in the art of making bread and then, subsequently, biscuits. Eventually, Sir Chow was appointed an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) and then promoted to Knight Bachelor for all his various contributions to the community.

His passion for making a difference and keeping his family-oriented views at the forefront of any decision made has been carried on by those at Lae Biscuit, with a company mission that includes producing, distributing, and selling a variety of food products that are tasty, irresistible, and the customer’s first choice.

With the ambitious goal of becoming the leading food manufacturer in PNG with trusted brands of exceptional quality and absolute value, Lae Biscuit is currently venturing into a variety of sweet cookies and snack chip products.

This new venture is made possible with Lae Biscuit’s team of over 1,000

We have a diverse suite of products providing total solutions such as:

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National Coding Technologies P/L offers first class ongoing support for your business through a range of servicing, parts and accessories. Our intellectual machines alert you that a service is due or accessories are running low which enables companies to run seamlessly without any downtime to production. We also offer more specialised services on recommendation and request to suit your business needs.

• Industrial inkjet printers • Industrial laser printers • Hi res printers • Desktop thermal printers • Thermal transfer printers • Conveyors • Turntables • Carton tapers • Label applicators • Colour label printers • Label rewinders • ID tag printer • Card feeders • Roller coders • Bottle labellers • Desktop conveyors • Feeder systems • Printing consumables such as inks, labels, printing ribbon etc.

We also have a network of global partners who can provide a high level of automation to suit most companies.

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Lae Biscuit Company factory and offices

dedicated employees spread across its offices in Lae and Port Moresby, along with its various branches in the Southern, Momase, Islands, and Highlands regions of PNG. The company’s services include promotion and marketing, delivery of finished goods, sporting events, and product donations to sports and church communities.

Dealing only with main product distributors, supply chain and supplier relationships are of the utmost importance.

“Taking into account the limited shipping schedule of international vessels, the supply chain is paramount,” expands Wong.

“We need suppliers who can provide our overseas materials in a timely manner and have an accurate tracking system to trace the status of incoming containers or air cargo shipments.”

These relationships are crucial to ensuring that Lae Biscuit is able to 164 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

continuously produce its delicious products to high standards and meet customer expectations.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE BISCUIT AT A TIME From its humble beginnings to today’s grand openings, Lae Biscuit has maintained its belief in creating employment opportunities for those in PNG and supporting the local community by assisting with community projects, events, sporting events, and disaster relief.

Currently, the company is contributing to 26 sporting clubs, various churches, and myriad charitable organisations that assist people in need.

Lae Biscuit’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been a long-established practice since its inception, and the foundational principles that guide its CSR have resulted in sustainable economic development while nurturing a grounded

LAE BISCUIT PRODUCTS AND FLAVOURS • Snax Chicken flavoured cracker • Snax Beef flavoured cracker • TOTI Cheese and Tomato savoury cracker • TOTI Beef and Tomato savoury cracker • Cabin Bisket • Navy Bisket • Hard Navy Bisket • Wheatmeal Biscuit • Large Navy Biscuit • Snax Chicken instant noodles • Snax Chicken and Onion instant noodles • PNG Hani raw, unpasteurised honey

LAE BISCUIT CO. LTD. FOOD & BEVERAGE

78mm

97mm

APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 165

relationship with the community.

During the height of the COVID19 pandemic, Lae Biscuit took the initiative to help those working on the frontline during the state of emergency and donated approximately K200,000 worth of household products. Additionally, the company donated 200 cartons of biscuits to the women’s correctional facility in Madang, 250 cartons of instant noodles to the students at the University of Technology in Lae, and 1,600 cartons of biscuits to the Catholic Highlands Diocese.

Lae Biscuit always strives to give 166 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

back to the community by providing unparalleled customer service, employment opportunities to the local community, and extremely delicious biscuits and instant noodles.

THE FUTURE OF BISCUITS Having started out processing only five bags of biscuit flour per day to produce the first hard biscuits, Lae Biscuit has seen incredible growth and development over the past 50 years that has manifested in state-ofthe-art products and the company being a staple of the community.

Having built a world-class biscuit

plant and instant noodle line as part of an expansion project, and introduced new products across PNG, Lae Biscuit is looking to grow even further.

“Our priority is to diversify new product lines and open export markets to Australia, New Zealand, and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) region,” comments Wong.

“Additionally, we are excited to see the new line for a variety of sweet products and to pack our new “bitesize” items using a fully automatic vertical packaging machine, ensuring a high-quality product and overall packaging efficiency.”

LAE BISCUIT CO. LTD. FOOD & BEVERAGE

Beginning in November of this year, installation of additional cracker and cookie lines are being constructed to cater to increasing demand and provide space for a new variety of sweet cookie products.

Lae Biscuit has recently achieved a new milestone in its adherence to the highest standards in its facilities.

“I am incredibly proud that Lae Biscuit has become the first PNGowned food manufacturing company to receive Food Safety System Certification (FSSC), based on the standard and technical specifications of ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO/TS 22022, and the FSSC 22000,” states Wong.

In addition, after a process that took nearly three years, Lae Biscuit met internationally recognised and approved food safety and control measures when awarded the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), a milestone accomplishment resulting from the tireless work of all team members.

This, along with the unrivalled achievements and time-tested history that the company has worked hard to earn, has certified Lae Biscuit as a producer of high-quality, trusted brands that will only continue to grow as time goes on.

LAE BISCUIT CO. LTD. Tel: 475 9988 / 475 9966 laebiscuit.com.pg APAC Outlook Issue 64 | 167

THE FINAL WORD To round off each issue, we ask our contributing business leaders for their views on the same question

What does good leadership look like to you?

Ryan Walkinshaw CEO, Walkinshaw Group “Good leadership encompasses many different elements. A good leader is someone who leads when required, listens to and trusts those around them with different ideas, is willing to do everything they ask of their team, and provides a clear direction for all in challenging times.”

David Meyn Managing Director, PBE Group “Lead by example, and as a manager, ensure that you are a key part of your business’ growth trajectory.”

168 | APAC Outlook Issue 64

Mitch Tanzer Global Commercial Director, Wabtec Digital Mine “Everything starts and finishes with meaningful relationships. It’s more than just knowing about your team; it’s about knowing what drives your team.”

Chris Mills CEO, Evie Networks “Great leadership is split into five elements.

Firstly, having the foresight to look at what is happening today and predict what it means for tomorrow.

Secondly, accountability is a huge thing for me, and I want people to feel ownership. Third and fourth are tenacious creativity and attention to detail. Lastly, the concept of leadership – for me, it’s giving people

the confidence in what they are doing and being able to lead them to their goals.”

Patrick Guedel CEO, EQUANS ANZ “Good leadership is when teams are seen at the forefront with full empowerment and support from the leaders. Good leadership at EQUANS ANZ is ‘servant leadership’. This means that leaders are here to help and support. In other words, they bring real value to their organisation, and ultimately to the clients. Good leadership is evident when customers are satisfied and happy to work with our organisation.”

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