Hybrid machinery is providing the sector with more sustainable options, while delivering equal output and robustness
A fast-growing machinery manufacturer is making a major move to a brand-new site
A wrap-up of some of the key takeaways and displays from bauma 2025
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THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR HAS ALREADY presented plenty of opportunity, as well as challenges for the infrastructure and transport sectors.
The 2025-26 Federal Budget outlined significant investment in several key infrastructure projects across the country, but the impact of said funding on small to medium-sized projects, as well as regional and rural communities, is yet to be seen.
As we enter the second quarter of 2025, as well as the busy events period, the sector is being given a sneak peek into what the future has in store.
For our cover story this edition, we spoke with Komatsu to learn more about the company’s innovative developments incorporating hybrid technology. Komatsu’s Hybrid Excavators are just as robust as conventionally fuelled machinery, but offer greater sustainability, productivity and efficiency, as well as reduced fuel usage. Mark Boyes, National Business Manager, Construction – Komatsu explains why Komatsu continues to explore hybrid technology, as well as other alternative powertrains.
Also in this edition, Roads & Infrastructure magazine takes you inside bauma 2025, the world’s largest trade show for the construction sector. Held in Germany, this event gave major manufacturers the chance to show off their latest equipment, while also giving attendees a glimpse of what’s to come. Our wrap-up of the event provides a snapshot of the noteworthy announcements concerning machinery and equipment.
Just one of the many companies that exhibited at bauma 2025 was the Wirtgen Group, a long-term equipment supplier for BA Road Services. Through its prioritisation of company culture and identity, as well as it’s proud First Nations heritage, BA Road Services continues to deliver high quality outcomes for its customers in both the public and private sectors. BA Road Services’ Founder and Managing Director, Brandon McRedmond, explains why he’s placed his company’s faith in Wirtgen machinery for more than half a decade.
In the May edition, we also learn how the transport sector is creating a new endof-life use for coffee grounds. A project developed by BildGroup, RMIT University and other partners is testing how viable coffee could be an alternative ingredient in concrete.
Get ready for this and more, in this edition of Roads & Infrastructure magazine!
Happy reading!
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COVER IMAGE Komatsu
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This year’s budget further backs the Federal Government’s 10-year, $120 billion infrastructure pipeline for nationally significant projects, with a specific focus on road infrastructure.
In Queensland, $7.2 billion has been committed for safety upgrades on the Bruce Highway.
This is on top of a further $200 million, helping to ensure the delivery of the Rockhampton Ring Road, as well as a further $70 million helping to seal the remaining 11 kilometres of unsealed pavement on the Kennedy Developmental Road.
In New South Wales, over $2.3 billion has been committed for critical infrastructure upgrades in the growing Western Sydney region, including $1 billion to preserve the corridor for the Southwest Sydney Rail Extension and $500 million to upgrade Fifteenth Avenue.
A further $465 million for New South Wales will go towards planning for regional projects,
The first tracks have been laid at Luddenham for the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line as the 23-kilometre new metro railway takes shape.
The first portion of track was installed at Luddenham, just north of a new rail bridge that will take metro services over the future M12 motorway.
More than 6400 tonnes of Australian-made rail steel will be laid along the 23-kilometre line between St Marys and Bradfield between now and mid-2026.
In total, 106.8 kilometres of rail line and 76,285 sleepers will be installed, including at the stabling and maintenance facility at Orchard Hills.
At the yard, the steel is welded together into 120-metre-long “rail strings” and then transported to a location along the alignment for installation.
A rail threader machine lifts the rail strings on top of the sleepers and the two are fastened together.
including $250 million to upgrade Mona Vale Road and $115 million to reduce travel times on Terrigal Drive.
In Victoria, $2 billion will go to upgrading Sunshine Station, an important project to deliver Melbourne Airport’s first rail link. $1.1 billion will go to supporting upgrades along the Western Freeway in Victoria, with $1 billion also going to the Road Blitz, a new package of works to increase capacity and
improve efficiency in Melbourne’s suburbs and surrounds.
In Western Australia, $350 million has been committed for the Westport – Kwinana Freeway Upgrades.
Tasmania’s Arthur Highway will receive $200 million for upgrades, with South Australia set to receive $125 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal.
South Australia will receive funding for three key projects, including $525 million for the High Productivity Vehicle Network (HPVN), $125 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal and $40 million for Main South Road upgrade – Myponga to Yankalilla.
The nation’s capital will receive $50 million for the Monaro Highway in the ACT.
Funding has also focused on increasing road safety and productivity, with funding into the Roads to Recovery Program to progressively rise to $1 billion per year, and Black Spot Program funding will reach $150 million per year.
The track is then lifted into its final position using an advanced adjustment system. A final concrete pour secures the track in place.
The track alignment program also consists of the delivery of associated assets and services, including mechanical, electrical, communications and plumbing works, which will be completed simultaneously to the track.
Work to build the six stations for the new line is in full swing, while plans detailing the design for each station are now finalised.
The scope of the overall project includes building, operating and maintaining a network of four metro lines, 46 stations and 113
kilometres of new metro rail, scheduled to open in 2032.
The project will connect Sydney’s northwest, west, southwest and greater west with new metro services with fully accessible stations.
The metro program includes the operational M1 Line and three projects under construction; the Southwest, west and Western Sydney Airport projects.
Once completed, Sydney’s new metro railway will have a target capacity of about 40,000 customers per hour, compared to Sydney’s current suburban system which can carry 24,000 people an hour per line.
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Work has started to deliver $36 million in road safety improvements on the Snowy Mountains Highway between the Hume Highway and the Princes Highway, in New South Wales.
The works are a part of four projects which together will span almost the full 330-kilometre length of the Snowy Mountains Highway, all projects are expected to be completed by mid-2026.
Jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales governments under the Road Safety Program, works began on Monday 7 April.
The Snowy Mountains Highway is a key freight and tourism link, connecting regional New South Wales with the South Coast, and the local timber industry with the Hume Highway and ports of Sydney and Melbourne.
Multiple safety treatments will be installed at various points along the highway including audio tactile line marking (also
The Snowy Mountains Highway (Highway 4, B72) is a 333-kilometre-long (207-mile) state highway in southern New South Wales. Image: stock.adobe.com/Pawel Pajor.
known as rumble strips), widened centre line and safety barriers, with roadside hazards to also be removed.
Later this year, Transport for NSW will also start work on upgrades to the intersection of Black Creek Road, west of Adelong, by realigning tight radius curves, widening shoulders, improving drainage and installing new safety barriers.
Excavation for the North East Link has reached a significant milestone with road headers breaking through in Bulleen, Melbourne.
The breakthrough marks a key step in the construction of the 6.5-kilometre twin tunnels that will connect Watsonia and Bulleen. The roaders are electric powered tunnelling machines that are used
They can excavate up to almost 2000 tonnes of rock each day and can break through rock three times harder than concrete.
The road headers have been working since 2024 to excavate the section between Manningham Road and Trinity Grammar with the sequential excavation method (SEM) of tunnelling particularly suited to
Upgrades to the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road will include new lanes, smart technology and a seamless connection to the North East Link tunnels. Image: stock. adobe.com/Daniel Jedzura.
With the five road headers currently working on the project now having broken through at both ends of this section, they will soon continue excavating the lower half of the tunnel.
Recently, the tunnel boring machines (TBMs), Gillian and Zelda, also made breakthroughs at the Lower Plenty Road interchange, and will soon continue their journey to Bulleen.
This combined approach of using both road headers and TBMs will ensure that the North East Link tunnels are completed efficiently.
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, three major road projects will be delivered, including the North East Link tunnels, which will take 15,000 trucks off local roads a day and reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes.
Other works include the M80 Ring Road Completion and Eastern Freeway Upgrades which will include new lanes, smart technology and a seamless connection to the North East Link tunnels.
The program of works will open in 2028 – bringing all the pieces of North East Link together.
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Construction is set to commence earlier than scheduled on the Muswellbrook Bypass, as planning kicks off on the new Cessnock Bypass, both situated in the Hunter region of New South Wales.
The fast-tracking of works on the Muswellbrook Bypass is the result of the Federal Government bringing forward its $304.8 million investment. Utility relocation work will start this year, ahead of the tender for major construction being announced in late 2026, before major construction commences in 2027.
The bypass will take traffic away from the town centre of Muswellbrook town centre, by moving the New England Highway to an alternate route to the town’s east. The new route will allow highway traffic to avoid traffic lights and flow freely at highway speeds, saving time for motorists and truck drivers who are travelling through the Hunter toward Aberdeen in the north, or the Liddell region in the south.
The bypass will move the New England Highway out of the Muswellbrook town centre, onto an alternate route to the town’s east. Image: stock.adobe.com/ Jedsada Naeprai.
Residents will also benefit from less congested traffic and less wear and tear on local roads, with 13,000 to 20,000 vehicles using the route daily currently.
The Muswellbrook Bypass project forms part of the New England Highway Corridor upgrades.
The Federal Government has also announced $5 million to support future
planning on the Cessnock bypass, which will bypass Cessnock’s city centre, reducing traffic and congestion in and around the town for motorists.
Planning will identify an alternative safe route to connect new housing developments at Bellbird in Cessnock’s south west to Nulkaba in the north and then onwards to the Hunter Expressway.
KOMATSU’S HYBRID MACHINERY IS PROVIDING THE SECTOR WITH MORE SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS, WHILE DELIVERING EQUAL OUTPUT AND ROBUSTNESS. MARK BOYES, NATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGER, CONSTRUCTION –KOMATSU EXPLAINS THE BENEFITS FOR INDUSTRY.
In today’s civil construction landscape, a significant priority has been placed on reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency, with many major contracts and tenders outlining strict sustainability and progress guidelines.
Komatsu’s hybrid technology aims to answer this call, by providing a highly suitable solution that maintains performance characteristics, while offering additional sustainable qualities.
As Mark Boyes, National Business Manager, Construction – Komatsu explains.
“When we look at Komatsu’s hybrid technology, we’re looking at decades of innovation, not just a matter of months or years,” he says. “It’s a range that’s been highly developed along the way.”
Komatsu’s flagship hybrid technology models are the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators, the culmination of more than 15 years of research and development.
Introduced to the market as part of Komatsu’s ongoing efforts to be among the leaders in hybrid technology, these models use Komatsu’s unique Hybrid System, which captures energy during the machine’s swing motion and converts it into electric energy.
This energy is then stored and used to
assist the engine during acceleration, resulting in significant fuel savings and reduced CO₂ emissions.
“Sustainability is a major requirement of modern construction. Nothing really satisfies that box more than having a machine that’s got not only a reduction in fuel usage, but also in terms of emissions,” Boyes says.
“These models are just as robust as their conventional counterparts, with the hybrid solution also providing an increase in terms of production results, in part due to the electronic swing motor generator, that assists with cycle times.
“They also hold a higher level of warranty, giving the operator and owner greater peace of mind.”
Both the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators offer fuel savings of up to 20 per cent compared to their conventional counterparts.
This reduction not only translates to lower operating costs but also contributes to a decrease in the environmental footprint of construction activities.
For contractors engaged in infrastructure projects, this means achieving sustainability
Komatsu’s hybrid range continues to develop and grow, as does the company’s investment in additional alternative powertrains.
targets without compromising on performance.
The electric swing motor generator and capacitor components also work together to deliver running at ultra-low idle (700 revolutions per minute), with the machine’s output able to be quickly boosted on demand by using power from the stored electric system.
Both models are effective in high-slew applications, such as loading crushers, mulching and other tasks requiring frequent directional changes.
The HB215LC-3 is equipped with a Komatsu SAA4D107E-3 engine, delivering a net horsepower of 110 kilowatts (148 horsepower), an operating weight of approximately 23,471 kilograms, and a bucket capacity of 1.20 cubic metres.
These specifications make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from urban construction to utility projects.
The larger HB365LC-3 features a Komatsu SAA6D114E-6 engine, providing a net horsepower of 201 kilowatts (269
horsepower), an operating weight ranging from 37,180 to 38,780 kilograms, and a bucket capacity between 0.68 to 1.96 cubic metres.
The HB365LC-3 is designed for more demanding projects, such as large-scale earthmoving and infrastructure developments.
Boyes says that both models comfortably cater for a wide variety of applications, with Komatsu’s specialised staff able to advise on the most suitable option.
“Hybrid technology is front of mind because of the potential of sustainable and green construction. It’s something that’s definitely being talked about a lot more and we have the options to support it,” he says.
The integration of the Hybrid System in both models also helps to enhance machine responsiveness, particularly during swing operations, leading to improved cycle times and productivity.
While the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 do not feature onboard Intelligent Machine Control or Smart Construction dashboards, they are fully compatible with Komatsu’s broader Smart Construction suite of digital solutions.
The Smart Construction platform consists of a range of smart solutions developed by Komatsu to help contractors and machine operators analyse data throughout each phase of a project, from tracking production and material movement, to billing and payload reporting.
With Komtrax fitted as standard, both the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators
and performance insights.
Paired with tools such as Smart Construction Remote, this connectivity supports informed decision-making, optimised fleet management, and improved project outcomes.
All these services, plus the machinery itself, is backed up by Komatsu’s after-sales support team.
This support is identical to conventional machinery, with a complimentary service for the first 2000 hours, standard warranty coverage and full technical support across Australia and New Zealand.
Komatsu’s HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators represent mature and reliable solutions for contractors aiming to meet the dual objectives of performance and sustainability.
With a legacy of hybrid innovation dating back to 2008, Komatsu is aiming to continue its mission of providing equipment that addresses the evolving needs of civil construction.
Boyes says that this proven technology, coupled with Komatsu’s comprehensive support network, ensures that contractors can confidently incorporate these hybrid excavators into their fleets, reaping the benefits of enhanced efficiency and environmental responsibility.
“The hybrid units complement our broader exploration of alternative power train technologies, such as hybrid or battery,” he says. “There’s never going to be a single solution that fixes all related issues, but
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Environmental Product Declarations will enable SAMI Bitumen Technologies’ customers to have unprecedented access to information around sustainability performance.
SAMI BITUMEN TECHNOLOGIES’ AUSTRALIAN-FIRST ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATIONS FOR BITUMEN BINDERS ARE PROVIDING GREATER TRANSPARENCY AROUND THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROPERTIES OF THE COMPANY’S PRODUCTS.
It’s SAMI Bitumen Technologies’ belief that you can’t manage what you can’t measure.
It’s a pioneering approach for a company that’s inspired and developed many sustainable solutions for the bitumen and binder space, across the world.
Sebastien Chatard, General Manager – SAMI Bitumen Technologies says the company has very unambiguous sustainability ambitions.
“As part of the COLAS Group, SAMI is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 46.5 per cent for scope one and two emissions, and 30 per cent for scope 3A by 2030 based on 2019
emissions,” he says. “Sustainability and carbon footprint reduction is at the core of our activities and products, it’s also a major focus for our research and development.
“All of the products that we’re producing, inventing or developing are aligned with these targets. We’re not just looking at the carbon emission or footprint of the product in its initial phase, we’re looking at the whole-of-life embodied carbon footprint.”
In order to ascertain a holistic understanding of the company’s carbon reduction efforts, SAMI Bitumen Technologies sought the services of start2see, an environmental consultancy
specialising in life cycle assessments, to begin the necessary process to achieve Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for 18 different bitumen binders. EPDs are standardised documents that communicate the environmental impacts of products, providing transparency around environmental performance and compliance.
Rob Rouwette, Director of start2see says EPDs are more than just documents. They’re tools for understanding, improving, and communicating environmental performance.
“Markets are asking more and more for this information because they want
to see more transparency about the environmental impacts of the products and materials that they use,” he says.
“After determining the scope of the EPD assessment, we start mapping the value chain of the products involved. This is followed by data collection, which involves analysing production processes and collecting data on energy consumption, material flows, waste generation and site-specific emissions.
“From a data collection point of view, one of the first things we look at is what are these products? What’s their composition and how much raw material goes into them? As well as what does the production process and supply chain look like?”
“Using this data, we analyse the environmental hotspots in the life cycle of a product. Furthermore, we benchmarked SAMI’s four production plants and outlined how they performed against each other. This information helps to establish where improvements can and are being made.”
The process is captured in an extensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) background report, which undergoes independent verification and ultimately results in the verified EPD document that is published by EPD Australasia.
All up, the process took two years. But Gerard Gnanaseelan, Technical Manager – SAMI Bitumen Technologies says the certification was well worth it.
“It’s a process that creates a chain reaction,” he says. “When we promote our products, there’s always questions from our customers, seeking a better understanding of whether there’s going to be a positive impact on environment.
“Now we can provide that information, through a standardised document that’s accepted and used across the sector.”
He adds that the process has created a number of growth opportunities and key learnings for the company internally.
“It’s a learning process for the entire organisation on how to adjust our behaviour and our level of understanding, when it comes to our environmental impact,” he says.
Chatard says the life cycle assessment also provided surprising results.
“Before we undertook the EPD process, we thought that our SAMIBioPrime product was carbon
“The best value you’ll get out of an EPD is by not just completing the process, but also then making that part of a larger, broader sustainability strategy.”
The expert guidance provided by start2see and EPD Australasia also helped to discover meaningful results, Chatard adds.
“It’s important to have that consultant beside you to know all these details and go through it correctly. If you don’t have the official, certified EPDs and only in-house calculations, there is a danger of
Chatard says SAMI Bitumen Technologies will use the learnings and certifications accrued to further push the company’s pledge to sustainable outcomes.
This includes – but is not limited to – constantly reviewing the company’s entire product range, support for the development of low-carbon products and finding a balance between product
“MARKETS ARE ASKING MORE AND MORE FOR THIS INFORMATION BECAUSE THEY WANT TO SEE MORE TRANSPARENCY ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF THE PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS THAT THEY USE,”
misinformation. Most of the time you don’t have the knowledge to set those benchmarks and apply that knowledge correctly,” he says.
Rouwette says that receiving an EPD certification should only mark the beginning of a company’s sustainability journey.
“The benefit of doing an EPD is that it’s solidified by the independent verification, and therefore it’s a document that you can use that shows ‘yeah, we’ve actually done the homework’ and we’re happy to stand behind that,” he says.
performance and a reduction in carbon footprint.
While it may seem easier said than done, it’s a challenge that SAMI Bitumen Technologies is more than willing to accept, says Gnanaseelan.
“We’re the first company to publish bituminous product EPDs in Australasia, but it’s just the first step,” he says.
“It has to involve the whole of society, our customer base and government. They all need to make a big decision on whether we are going to live the way we are now, or if we’re going to make a change.”
Kristian Horana, Senior Project Engineer for MRPV, Paul Sklepic, Project Manager for MRPV, Dr Rajeev Roychand, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at RMIT, Stephen Hill, Chief Executive Officer for BildGroup, and Gary Fox, Project Director for BildGroup.
COFFEE IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS A STRONG DRINK. NOW, AFTER ITS PROVEN SUCCESS IN HOLDING TOGETHER CONCRETE, THE WORD STRONG HAS AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT MEANING.
BildGroup works in and around communities every single day, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint and minimise its use of raw materials.
heating organic waste materials in a lowoxygen environment, known as pyrolysis.
Images: BildGroup.
“Innovation is part of our DNA, and after learning more about the coffee concrete, we saw a fantastic synergy to work with RMIT to help them bring their idea into a commercial delivery space.”
With the original intent to recycle aluminium coffee pods, the RMIT team knuckled down to find a way to keep them out of landfill.
Discussing matters over cups of coffee, Dr Rajeev Roychand and his fellow RMIT researchers, Professor Jie Li, Associate Professor Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch, Dr Mohammad Saberian, Professor Chun Qing Li and Professor Guomin (Kevin) Zhang discovered they should start at the source.
“We intended to find an alternate end source for the huge amount of waste that ends up in landfills,” says Lead Author Roychand.
“Instead, we thought we should look at the coffee itself.”
According to Roychand, Australia generates 75 million kilograms of ground coffee waste every year, most of which goes to landfills.
“We developed a technique to make concrete 30 per cent stronger by turning waste coffee grounds into biochar, using a low-energy process without oxygen at 350 degrees Celsius,” says Roychand.
A wholly Australian-owned business, BildGroup builds infrastructure and facilities by delivering diverse solutions, like civil infrastructure, urban development, landscaping, sports fields, road profiling and asphalt paving.
Like the rest of the construction industry, BildGroup had constructed concrete paving using sand and cement to produce a sound and structurally safe product.
This all changed when it discovered an innovation RMIT University created, known as ‘coffee concrete’. This sustainable concrete promises a safe and environmentally friendly way to reduce the sand content in concrete.
In partnership with RMIT University and concrete supply partner Dandy Premix, BildGroup has successfully trialled the new concrete, made partially from the coffee grounds that remain after the coffee is brewed.
The spent coffee grounds are turned into biochar, a form of charcoal produced by
The biochar acts as a partial sand replacement in the concrete. Sand is a finite and precious resource that BildGroup and other construction companies hope to preserve.
The coffee concrete is the latest sustainable innovation BildGroup has taken part in.
In doing so, the company is one of few leading the way in environmentally friendly construction.
Gary Fox, Project Director for Pakenham Roads Upgrade – BildGroup, says discovering the RMIT research was an exciting moment for the team, which also marked the beginning of a new partnership.
“At BildGroup, we encourage new innovations on our projects, and we always keep an eye out for new construction practices and how we can incorporate them into our business,” says Fox.
“When we looked at this research, it ticked a lot of our boxes internally, so we were excited to reach out to RMIT to help bring it out of the lab and into a realworld scenario.
This transforms the waste into a stable, carbon-rich material for various applications, including construction.
By utilising coffee biochar, Roychand says the cement content can also be reduced, a welcome reduction considering cement is a carbon-heavy material.
“Cement is the highest carbon footprint emitting material within concrete. It is responsible for seven to eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions a year,” he says.
“Cement is what adds the strength component of the concrete, so when we discovered we could make the concrete up to 30 per cent stronger, with the addition of coffee biochar and no increase in cement, it was a momentous moment.
“This process opens up cost savings for construction companies, as it has the potential to reduce the amount of cement needed by as much as 10 per cent.”
Soon after Roychand and the team began publishing their results, they started
generating a lot of interest from outside parties, with BildGroup being one.
BildGroup began identifying partners to help bring the research onto a live project.
“It wasn’t hard to get our concrete supplier and client, Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV), on board,” says Fox.
“Like BildGroup, our concrete supply partner, Dandy Premix, believes in leading innovations. All parties were excited to participate in this eco-friendly solution.”
The coffee for the project was supplied by social enterprise Reground, which collects ground coffee from businesses and diverts it back to the local community for use in a host of circular ideas.
Earth Systems, an environmental, social science and engineering company, was responsible for producing the biochar for the project.
Fox says BildGroup is proud to be at the forefront of this circular economy solution with its partners, turning organic waste into valuable resources.
“It is inspiring to see multiple organisations uniting to work towards a common goal to achieve new innovations of sustainability,” he says.
“This project demonstrates the sheer power of organisations working together for positive social impact.”
A new footpath in the Cardinia Shire Council, situated in south-east Melbourne, was the destination chosen for this collaboration.
As part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade
with MRPV, the works are the first project of its kind in Australia and the construction industry.
In this trial, over 30 cubic metres of coffee concrete was poured, diverting approximately five tonnes of spent coffee grounds from landfill, the equivalent of 140,000 lattes.
The five tonnes of spent coffee grounds turned into more than two tonnes of biochar, replacing the traditional sand used in the concrete mix.
This also equates to saving three tonnes of sand.
After eight months of working closely
with all parties, Fox says the project was a great success.
“ We felt it was a great opportunity to continue our partnership with MRPV. They jumped on board after we conducted a series of tests and trials to ensure it was a commercially viable option and we could complete a concrete pour on a work site,” he says.
To coincide with BildGroup’s recycled first and sustainability commitments, Fox says the trial was a perfect opportunity to try something new while helping RMIT advance its research.
“We are always looking to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the circular economy, all while saving on raw materials,” he says.
“If we can utilise the humble cup of coffee in construction, then we will relish the opportunity. It’s something that we’re proud to be a part of.”
In addition to the coffee concrete trials, BildGroup has supported and used recycled asphalt for use on other projects, recycled plastics in drainage pipes, solar lights on site to power sites and electric equipment.
“As a multi-disciplinary contractor, we are a business that wants to fulfill the potential of our people and our community,” says Fox.
“We are excited to lead the charge in some of these innovations and are happy to assist as much research as we can to build a better future.
“Trials have to start somewhere; we are happy to help develop them and be involved.”
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Specialised Roading Equipment’s brand-new site in Hamilton is set to increase the company’s manufacturing capacity, reducing lead times for customers in Australia.
“NOW WE’VE GOT DEDICATED FIT UP, DEDICATED FABRICATION AND DEDICATED SERVICE TEAMS, ALL UNDER THE SAME ROOF.”
of work that we were getting, we weren’t able to give that massive spike in demand justice.”
That’s why the wheels started turning three years ago on moving to a new facility.
SRE’s new facility and site in Hamilton, New Zealand is more than triple the size of the old site, greatly increasing production capability, as well as the company’s ability to deliver components and fittings in-house. But what does this mean for customers?
Kaelin says moving processes inhouse will further aid the company’s lead times, as well as the quality of each component, two areas that the company has become well known for.
“It’s all about the efficiency gain,” he says. “No longer do we need to shift tanks from one site to another, as everything is at the one location. We can also have more components built before the truck arrives.
“The capacity to build means we can push through a lot more equipment, much quicker. Previously we’ve been limited by how many machines we could progress, purely because we didn’t have the space.
“Now those restraints have been completely loosened.”
Wansbrough says customers in both Australia and New Zealand can feel more confident than ever in their SRE units.
“It’s given us complete control and ownership over the whole process,” he says.
“When you’re outsourcing, you’re relying on other people. Now we can guarantee great reliability and confidence around hitting those expectations we set for lead times and deadlines.”
Importantly, the new site will also provide a boost for SRE’s maintenance and servicing, helping to reduce lead times during major maintenance periods, as Kaelin explains.
“The winter maintenance season starts in April and will run through until
September. We’ve already got 50 sprayers to action through that winter service period. That’s where the larger site is going to really help us, by separating out manufacturing and servicing, so they’re not sitting on top of each other,” Kaelin says.
“Now we’ve got dedicated fit up, dedicated fabrication and dedicated service teams, all under the same roof.”
This includes a dedicated inventory controller, meaning Australian customers have a direct line for parts and maintenance, with an additional full-time technical and servicing support staff member further aiding maintenance and technical outcomes for customers.
This is on top of SRE’s commitment to increase the stock of critical parts in Australia, as well as the development of a dedicated parts location domestically.
“We’re really starting to build those relationships in Australia,” Kaelin says.
“That’s on top of our development and launch of our fixed bar sprayer, which is focused on a specific segment of the Australian market.
“We’ve got more and more Australian orders coming in, so we’re well and truly knocking on the door.”
Caterpillar has developed a soil compactor range suitable for a wide range of applications.
CATERPILLAR’S SOIL COMPACTOR RANGE IS SET TO GET BIGGER AND BETTER. A LOCAL DEALER AND SUPPORT NETWORK, AS WELL AS THE LATEST CATERPILLAR TECHNOLOGY, IS ENSURING THAT OPERATORS CAN BENEFIT FROM THE BEST POSSIBLE SOIL COMPACTION.
This is just one of the reasons why the company introduced Cat Compaction Control, a technology portfolio that focuses on giving operators an intelligent compaction system.
Chris Harkness, Industry Territory Manager, Paving Products – Caterpillar, says Machine Drive Power (MDP) is just one component of this portfolio, allowing
operators to see compaction data in realtime on the machine’s screen, ensuring proper soil compaction across different soil types.
“A lot of companies, when they offer compaction technology, they offer an accelerometer, which measures drum decoupling,” he says.
“This technology is less effective when you’re working in clay, which in some ways acts as a shock absorber, which means the data doesn’t match up to what’s depicted. And that’s one of the main reasons why we developed MDP.”
MDP measures the load bearing strength of soil, collecting and communicating this data to the operator, allowing them to know when an area meets compaction specification. It’s also compatible across both smooth drum and padfoot configurations.
Harkness says the technology has been developed with Australian applications in mind, able to cater for a multitude of surface types and scales, such as granular, cohesive and semi-cohesive.
“Australia is one of the leading adopters of machine control and machine technology in the world. When we look at Asia, Europe and the US, Australia is still
BORN FROM INTEL RECEIVED FROM HEAVY-DUTY INDUSTRIES, THE FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY PROVIDES ENHANCED CAPABILITY, DURABILITY AND PRODUCTIVITY.
The first-ever Ford Ranger Super Duty in Australia has been revealed, a machine uncompromising in its ability to help those who do the toughest jobs, thanks to the Ranger’s Driver Assist Technology, safety features, incredible versatility and immense capability.
Jim Baumbick, Vice President, Advanced Product Development, Cycle Planning and Programs – Ford Motor Company says the company is taking the global mid-size truck capability to a whole new level.
“We listened to what the hardest working fleet operators told us, that they needed to be more productive, and we’ve developed a Ranger with heavy-duty hardware and enhanced capability to stay on the job longer and help get it done sooner,” he says.
The Ranger Super Duty will be available in Australia as either a Single, Super or Double Cab Chassis from launch in 2026, and as a Double Cab with style-side box in mid-2026. It will be available in two trim levels, Ranger Super Duty and Ranger Super Duty XLT (arriving mid-2026) for those who need refined long-distance capability. This variant will boast unique alloy wheels and touringfocused upgrades and will be exclusively
available on Double Cab chassis and pickup variants.
Redefining the heavy-duty, mid-size pick-up segment, Ranger Super Duty will deliver safety, versatility, connectivity, and creature comforts.
From its available Integrated Device Mounting System to its onboard scales, sealed snorkel, front and rear differential locks, heavy-duty axles, suspension and chassis, the Ford engineering team has developed a new kind of Ranger that’s commercial grade but consumer friendly.
While its overall chassis dimensions might be the same as the Ranger, the Ranger Super Duty runs a unique frame, engineered to provide increased strength, performance and load carrying capacity. The frame is thicker, while suspension mounts, box mount brackets and tow bar mounts have been reinforced, allowing the Ranger Super Duty to achieve its 4500-kilogram GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) rating.
For enhanced durability, the Ranger Super Duty runs a stronger front and rear driveshaft, while a new heavy-duty rear axle
provides enhanced load carrying capacity. The new rear differential is the biggest and strongest to ever be fitted to a production Ranger. To help spread the load, the Ranger Super Duty also has eight-stud wheel hubs with larger bolts.
Ranger Super Duty has been developed with upfitting in mind. The reinforced frame and readily accessible mounting points make it easy to integrate a variety of aftermarket accessories and specialised equipment. This versatility means that the Ranger Super Duty arrives from the factory ready to work.
“These enhancements are key to Ranger Super Duty being able to carry and tow bigger loads than any other factory-built mid-size pick-up,” Burn says. “These larger, stronger components improve vehicle durability and reliability which is something we know our customers will appreciate.”
Under Ranger Super Duty’s sculpted bonnet is Ford’s 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6, calibrated for heavy-duty emissions standards. Improved cooling ensures optimum temperature management under
load and during sustained off-roading in difficult terrain.
“This drivetrain will be delivered with EU6.2 compliance for global markets, meaning the Ranger Super Duty is ready to work for years to come,” Burn says.
Ranger Super Duty also offers customers the option of delaying the automatic diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration and
and then manually initiate a DPF clean will be a useful feature for those customers who operate in high fire risk environments,” Burn says.
Knowing the Ranger Super Duty will be pushed harder than most off-road vehicles and driven in more extreme locations, Ford engineers have ensured that the differential, transmission, fuel and transfer case breathers are all mounted up high. The Ranger Super Duty also boasts an improved water wading depth compared to other diesel Ranger variants.
“Extensive testing in controlled and realworld situations proved that the Ranger Super Duty has the capability needed for all manner of use, from emergency services to farmers and recreational off-roaders,” Burn says.
The Ranger Super Duty offers six selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco, Tow/ Haul, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl). These modes tailor a range of vehicle settings, from throttle and transmission response to stability control, further aiding drivers when going off-road.
Equipped with Ford’s advanced fourwheel drive system, the Ranger Super Duty comes with 4A (Automatic 4WD) as the permanent setting to ensure the vehicle always delivers the maximum amount of torque, to provide enhanced traction and control on both high and low grip surfaces and under load.
“The Ranger Super Duty’s two-speed
transfer case features larger, stronger components than other Ranger variants for enhanced durability,” Burn says. “To ensure this truck can handle life in low-range in extreme terrain, the low-range gearset has been upgraded to match the F-Series Super Duty.”
Boasting front and rear locking differentials as standard on all variants, The Ranger Super Duty has been set up to perform in the toughest terrain. The front differential is a modified version of the differential in the Bronco Raptor, updated for enhanced load capacity.
“We’ve tested the Ranger Super Duty in extreme conditions where a vehicle with open differentials would have become stuck and unable to proceed,” Burn says. “Thanks to a locking front and rear differential and an enhanced low-range gearset and a host of other off-road capability improvements, the Ranger Super Duty performed flawlessly.”
Developing a truck like the Ranger Super Duty and ensuring it could live up to the toughest jobs in the most extreme locations required an extensive durability program, as Baumbick explains.
“We torture test our trucks to earn the name Super Duty,” he says. “For instance, to make sure the Ranger Super Duty is ready for almost any work environment, we created an even tougher mud pack test to simulate mine work. The Ranger Super Duty had to continue working, even with 600
“THANKS TO A LOCKING FRONT AND REAR DIFFERENTIAL AND AN ENHANCED LOW-RANGE GEARSET AND A HOST OF OTHER O FF-ROAD CAPABILITY IMPROVEMENTS, THE RANGER SUPER DUTY PERFORMED FLAWLESSLY.”
kilograms of mud stuck to the bottom of
Some Ranger Super Duty testing was too tough for humans, with autonomous driving robots used to run 24/7 tests on Ford Australia’s infamous test track at its You Yangs Proving Ground and Silver Creek, both in Victoria, which simulates driving down a rocky dry riverbed.
“Our Silver Creek and autonomous driving robots were designed and developed in North America for the testing and development of the original F-Series Super Duty and have been a part of
BA ROAD
SERVICES, THROUGH THE USE OF WIRTGEN GROUP MACHINERY, IS SETTING THE STANDARD FOR CULTURE, SUSTAINABILITY AND OPPORTUNITY IN THE ASPHALT SECTOR, WITH EVERY ASPECT OF THE COMPANY DRIVEN BY ITS PROUD FIRST NATIONS HERITAGE.
Traditionally, success in the asphalt sector has been measured in tonnes and dollars, with companies driving output and speed as the keys to sustainable success.
While these are important factors of BA Road Services’ operations, the company has taken a slightly different approach. By prioritising company culture and identity, Founder and Managing Director Brandon McRedmond set out to establish an enterprise that his workers –and customers – could be proud of.
BA Road Services’ team consists of a wide range of cultural backgrounds, which McRedmond says is a key component of the company’s growing success.
“We’re a very culturally driven business,” he says. “When I say the word culture, it’s not just about where our employees are from. It’s about making sure that collectively, we can create a company where people are happy to come to work, in a positive environment.
“Part of our mission as a business is to employ unskilled people and build them into skilful team members, which is also a big part of our DNA.”
McRedmond adds that while culture is a key driver for the company, so is its ability to deliver high-quality outcomes for BA Roads clientele, which includes local and state government across civil and residential construction developments.
“If you don’t do a good job, you don’t get called back,” he says. “That’s why we pride ourselves on quality and safety.”
McRedmond says culture, safety and quality are just some of the aspects that differentiate BA Road Services from other providers in Victoria’s asphalt space. Another, is its use of reliable and “outstanding” equipment, manufactured by the Wirtgen Group.
BA Road Services has been using Wirtgen Group machinery since 2019. But McRedmond’s personal relationship with the manufacturer goes way back, having used Wirtgen Group equipment in previous roles.
McRedmond says that when it comes to first impressions, Wirtgen hit the mark, right from the start.
“One of the first things that really stood out was their technology,” he says. “Despite having so much technology, they’re still user-friendly. Some other machines have the technology but are complex as a result, whereas Wirtgen machinery is some of the easiest out there to operate.
“Wirtgen have always been right up there when it comes to technology.”
BA Roads now has 15 of the Wirtgen Group’s “sophisticated, yet straightforward” units, including profilers, rollers and pavers. Its asphalt suppliers are also using Wirtgen Group asphalt and batch plants.
Wirtgen is committed to helping BA Roads deliver on its promises to customers, as well as its own internal goals.
One area of concern and focus for BA Roads is sustainable project delivery, an aspect that Wirtgen is providing consultation around.
“We’ve got to be able to give a bit back to the environment,” McRedmond says. “We’re doing a few projects and
programs that could see the use of recycled content, such as plastics, glass and rubber.
“Wirtgen is helping us in this space. Together, we’re having discussions and learning more about biofuels.”
To ensure it’s at the forefront of technology and processes, the BA Roads team frequently travels overseas, further aiding its exploration of sustainable methods.
These trips, along with discussions with the Wirtgen Group, has kept BA Roads well on pace, with McRedmond labelling every dialogue as advantageous.
“That growth and learning process is something that’s still evolving,” he says. “I’m big on shooting out ideas, to try and help them to make things easier and less complex.
“While working together, they’ve been open to ideas and suggestions that can lead to modifications. They take all of it onboard, which is great.”
Another cornerstone of BA Roads and the Wirtgen Group’s professional relationship has been ongoing training and support.
McRedmond says Wirtgen sent representatives to site to commission
BA Roads’ new equipment. On top of the initial introduction, Wirtgen has also offered training programs, helping to increase the knowledge of operators around machinery features, buttons, and functionalities.
“It’s also a big thing for confidence,” McRedmond says. “There can be a lot that a newer operator wouldn’t know. But mostly, if you’re an experienced operator, Wirtgen machinery is pretty easy to get a hold of.”
There’s already a bright future ahead for what is one of few Aboriginal-
construction sector, with works slated for BA Roads on major projects in Melbourne and a number of additional projects in planning.
McRedmond says that with the company’s strong cultural diversity and high-quality work standards – coupled with the support of the Wirtgen Group – BA Roads has a positive outlook for 2025, despite ongoing industry challenges.
“There’s the old saying, that cancer spreads quickly. If you have one wrong aspect to your business, it could impact the whole lot,” he says. “That’s why culture will always be number one
model, with the lithium battery and solar panel combining to deliver a minimum of 16 hours autonomy, with recharging times as low as five hours,” he says.
“With this model, Atlas Copco will provide two lithium-ion batteries which allow for a longer autonomy than a lighting tower with absorbent glass mat (AGM)/lead-acid batteries.”
The MS 5 uses lithium phosphate batteries to ensure the safest and highest sustainability level of battery technology. Buttigieg says the batteries ensure more than 5000 fully charged battery life cycles, guaranteeing constant power through the asset life cycle.
“AGM batteries have a much smaller life cycle, meaning operators would replace approximately 10 AGM batteries to one lithium battery over the expected life cycle,” says Buttigieg.
“This means the cost of ownership for operating machinery with AGM batteries is a lot higher in the long-term. Even though they might appear more economical up front, operators will replace them more often.”
Not only is a lithium-ion battery ideal to reduce carbon footprint and operating costs, the MS 5 uses a phosphate battery, which Buttigieg says is the safest choice of lithium batteries on the market.
“Every lithium-ion battery we use has a battery management system (BMS) which prevents the battery from running too low before it needs recharging, ensuring the reliability of the MS 5 through asset life,” he says.
The MS 5 ensures reliability with solar panels working in parallel. If one panel has an issue, the battery continues to be recharged by the others, reducing impacts to the whole charging system.
Each solar panel is equipped with one Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for efficiency, and the units are protected by a robust HardHat canopy.
“The HardHat canopy covers the batteries and components inside the machine and is widely known among Atlas Copco products, and for good reason,” says Buttigieg.
Safety and convenience are enhanced on the MS 5, with features such as an electric winch, Earth Leakage Relay, E-stop, Photocell, AutoStart and auto
mask down features.
Additional safety options include EU Road Homologation, AUS undercarriage version, C5M painting, and more.
One special feature distinguishing the MS 5 from others on the market is the new mask down feature used for relocating the machine.
“This feature will automatically kick in if the operator tries to relocate the lighting tower whilst the mask is up. As soon as the operator detracts the handbrake to move it, it will automatically bring the mask down,” says Buttigieg.
“This is a key feature, because the mask is often high enough to take out power lines. We have seen this happen on more than one occasion.”
The machine is also equipped with a photo sensor; the machine will turn on as soon as it becomes dark and turn off as the sun rises.
“Another key feature is the sliding solar panels which are otherwise hidden in the base of the machine,” says Buttigieg.
“The smaller side solar panels slide in when not required for use and slide out when needed.
“This new feature is safer than older models, which compacts by folding the other panels in. This can be dangerous because hands can get caught in the fold and the panels can be broken if handled roughly.”
The MS 5 offers a solution that aligns with the global shift towards more renewable energy solutions. Not only does it illuminate work sites with unparalleled efficiency, but also significantly reduces the carbon footprint of operations.
“There are multiple meanings when we talk about the sustainability of the machine, sustainability is not just about reducing emissions,” says Buttigieg.
The MS 5 offers quiet operations with a design focused on serviceability to minimise downtime.
The MS 5 solar panels work in parallel, ensuring if one panel fails the battery continues to be recharged by the others.
With surrounding neighbourhoods in mind, the MS 5 has been designed to emit no noise, making it ideal for applications in residential areas.
“THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY DIRECTIONAL AND REDUCED LIGHT POWER WITH THE MS 5 WILL BE USEFUL.”
“These machines are completely silent, making them ideal for applications where noise reduction is required,” says Buttigieg.
Buttigieg says operators can also reduce the strength of the lighting to suit the parameters of the area they are situated in.
“Operators can easily control the dimness of the light depending on the strength of light required for the job,” he says.
“As the output of the light is reduced, the autonomy and amount of power the unit will possess will grow.
“For example, if the light runs for 16 hours at 100 per cent operating power, with reduced power the MS 5 will run for 86 hours at 25 per cent.”
The MS 5 also allows operators to position the light in certain spots, this is called directional light.
“There are many reasons why directional and reduced light power with the MS 5 will be useful,” says Buttigieg.
“The first is in residential areas, when light noise shouldn’t be disturbing neighbouring properties.
“Metro construction sites often require portable lighting to make streets safe for pedestrians and cars, but we also need to make sure the light is positioned correctly to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.”
The MS 5 is available to order through Atlas CEA.
It will debut at The Hire and Rental Industry’s HIRE25 event, the two-day hire and rental show held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from June 4-5.
Whether the job is building roads or buildings, the John Deere Operations Center offers a wide range of features to enhance the management of an individual’s operations and equipment.
John Deere has enhanced this digital customer experience with new customerfocused features.
These updates allow users to access comprehensive jobsite data and machine health information, empowering them to make real-time decisions that drive profitability.
Using feedback from John Deere customers, the added features and enhancements directly address challenges
more effectively than ever before,” she says.
“This not only helps maximise productivity, but it also empowers operators and fleet supervisors to fully leverage their technology investments on the job.”
The new enhancements include custom notifications so customers can be alerted when idle time, speed or fuel levels exceed limits.
These alerts enable proactive planning, ensuring fuel usage and maximising job site productivity.
Customers can monitor their jobsites in near real-time with Jobsite Manager and Summary Cards.
With these, customers can easily create, track, and optimise jobsites to improve productivity and efficiency.
Paired with Summary Cards, customers can monitor progress, fuel consumption, and machine locations, driving profitability and enhancing operational performance. Jobsites can also be automatically created when the automatic toggle is on.
Regarding maintenance, there are a variety of new solutions available to customers to help keep the jobsite running smoothly.
The Maintenance Plan Auto Assignment within Equipment Mobile empowers dealers to proactively plan and provide maintenance solutions with seamless communication, to ensure customers’ equipment is readily available.
With this feature, customers can add factory maintenance plans to their machines, see specific parts needed for service, streamline the maintenance process and empower customers to manage their machines efficiently.
To access the John Deere Operations Center, customers can use the John Deere Equipment Mobile app which helps customers manage their equipment with less effort.
With this app, customers can look up information in the Operator’s Manual, quickly find parts and maintenance schedules, track past or upcoming services, and more.
Freighter Group has expanded its business model to include spare parts servicing, supporting the product for its lifespan.
WITH OVER 75 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY, FREIGHTER GROUP IS TAKING THE NEXT STEP IN LOOKING AFTER ITS CUSTOMERS, INTRODUCING ITS SPARE PARTS SOLUTIONS AND UPGRADED FACILITY.
Freighter Group is synonymous with road transport in Australia, delivering high quality and locally manufactured heavy duty road transport trailer solutions for its customers.
With origins dating back to 1946, Freighter Group has called the regional town of Ballarat, Victoria, home since the early 1970s.
Over the course of its journey, it has continued to establish and evolve its distribution network around Australia.
With locations right across the country, Freighter Group ensures its reach is far and wide.
Greg L’Estrange, Executive Chairman of Freighter Group says its expansion across the nation ensures there is always a Freighter representative close by.
“At Freighter Group, it is important to us that our customers are never too far away,” he says.
“If our customers are ever on the road looking for help, we will be ready to assist and willing to support whenever we are needed.
“Using our network, we want to ensure that our customers have the opportunity to be serviced or have a problem fixed as quickly as possible, to get them back on the road.”
L’Estrange says one of Freighter Group’s long-term goals is to fill in the map,
to meet the diverse needs of our customers nationwide.”
L’Estrange says the Freighter Group network is ready to assist its customers with all spare trailer parts needs.
“Freighter Group has a wide range of genuine spare parts across our original equipment (OE) trailer brands, ensuring our customers are looked after when they are in need of spare parts for any of our products,” he says.
“We have spent a lot of time developing this sector of the business for distribution around Australia.”
L’Estrange says the spare parts servicing supports the company’s ethos – “We ‘freight it’ for life.”
“We want to sell our new trailers, and we want to service those trailers, but of course we also want to sell parts to those trailers to keep them running for as long as possible,” he says.
“Customers might have a highly productive trailer, which might last them seven to 10 years or with a less intense workload that will last them 10 to 20 years.
“Either way, we want to establish a lifelong relationship with our customers and be there for them for the entirety of the product’s lifecycle.”
remains a competitive supplier of trailers in Australia, all while remaining globally competitive in price and in quality,” he says.
“Over the past two to three years, we have invested thoroughly in this expansion, acquiring the latest technology. All with the aim of transforming the Australian trailer manufacturing industry and helping keep Freighter Group ahead of the game.”
Some of the new technology housed at the Ballarat facility includes laser cutting
our footprint in Ballarat as a major manufacturer,” he says.
“We have a strong belief of being connected to all communities and we are proud to support Ballarat.”
In addition to its customers, Freighter Group acknowledges the hard work of all its staff which has led to the company’s success in consistently providing high-quality, comprehensive services.
L’Estrange says the newly upgraded facility provides Ballarat employees certainty for the future.
“When you have a facility that’s not competitive and hasn’t been invested in for a long period of time, there are always concerns whether that facility has a future and in-turn its staff members,” he says.
“With the new upgrades to Ballarat and even more planned for the future, Freighter Group has no plans to leave any time soon.”
After a year of planning works, and years of expansions, L’Estrange says the facility is in top shape and ready for all to see.
“The renovations are largely complete. However, when you have a manufacturing facility, things will never be fully complete. There will always be new technology to include and more to expand,” says L’Estrange.
“Our business is always looking to stay current, if not ahead of the game when it comes to technology.
“ We are excited for the future and to invite customers to come in and pay us a visit while seeing the exciting upgrades.”
installed across, under and next to road infrastructure.
Designed for long-term durability and able to satisfy state specific standards, this road fibre cable is a comprehensive solution for the long-term needs of any metropolitan or regional transport network.
“The intended useful life of these cables is normally between 20-30 years,” Karanikolaou says. “The intention is that once you’ve put the cable in the ground, you’re never going to have to dig it up again. That’s why in areas where there’s water and shade, we use specific materials and designs, so that rodents and termites can’t penetrate the cable.
“Each of our materials and products meet the relevant standards and they’re all fit for purpose.”
Garland’s fibre cable range consists of rodent proof, fire rated and pre-
George Karanikolaou, National Product Manager – Madison Express.
wheelhouse,” he says.
“We normally have regular meetings with the customer to give project updates so that everyone is across what’s happening. We’re always working towards the parameters set, such as the location and time for delivery. We pride ourselves on hitting or bettering that date.”
This also includes delivering on environmental considerations and promises. But how?
Karanikolaou explains.
“A common trend overseas is to add chemicals to the cable, that may not be environmentally friendly, nor meet local OH&S (Occupational Health and Safety) concerns,” he says.
“Some of these chemicals have been shown to leach out of the cable over time and pollute the environment. We stay far away from those chemicals, as it’s not our intent to harm anyone or the environment.”
Despite having won major contracts in the space and having a variety of tier one and tier two companies as its clientele, Garland’s product offering is still “underrated”, according to Karanikolaou.
“I don’t think people in the industry know just how dynamic and how modern our fibre optic portfolio is,” he says. “I think we’re underestimated in what we can do in the fibre space.
“THE INTENTION IS THAT ONCE YOU’VE PUT THE CABLE IN THE GROUND, YOU’RE NEVER GOING TO HAVE TO DIG IT UP AGAIN.”
terminated cable, with multimode or single mode optical fibre supporting a host of additional customisable options. This includes differing core counts and core sizes, even within the same cable, if required.
As well as developing its vast customisation options, Madison Express has also invested heavily to ensure it can provide for multiple aspects of project delivery, including multiple cable packages on the same project.
“Most projects have three packages. They’ll have a power cable package, which is handled externally. Then there’s the communications package, as well as a control and instrumentation package, both of which are in our
Those who aren’t using our products and services are missing out.”
There’s still plenty in the pipeline for Madison Express, with the company remaining committed to innovating and pushing the sector forward.
“We’re always finding new ways to either improve the cost or the performance of our cables. Our options are based on market requirements, as well as current best practice overseas, including many products that aren’t yet established in Australia,” Karanikolaou says.
“A lot of that comes from the company’s drive and creativity, to push the boundaries and try new things.”
FODS’ TRACKOUT CONTROL MATS ARE SUPPORTING OPERATIONS ON THE EASTERN FREEWAY UPGRADES: BURKE TO TRAM PROJECT IN MELBOURNE, PROVIDING EFFICIENCY, EASE OF USE, MAINTENANCE, AND MORE. AS SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISOR ON THE PROJECT, ANDRIS MCLEAN, EXPLAINS.
Sediment control is an essential factor in infrastructure project development.
Sediment runoff can pose major threats to the environment, including water pollution, habitat damage and potential erosion.
It’s one of the many reasons why local and state government authorities have developed strict guidelines around establishing greater control over the working environment of construction sites.
One example is the Victorian Government’s Environmental Management Framework, which outlines the responsibilities and rules for sediment control on a range of project types.
Sustainability and environmental impacts are significant considerations during planning and project delivery for a project like the Eastern Freeway Upgrades in Melbourne.
That’s why the Eastern Freeway –Burke to Tram Alliance (EBTA) initially inquired about Trackout Control Mats, an alternative for traditional infrastructure for site entry and exit.
Andris Mclean, Senior Environmental Advisor (Bulleen Interchange), Eastern Freeway – Burke to Tram Alliance, says his first impression of the product was positive. Its versatility offers greater flexibility and efficiency for the EBTA team.
“I was particularly impressed with their easy mobility and low maintenance requirements,” he says. “Unlike traditional rumble grids, FODS mats are lightweight and can be quickly relocated, which is a huge advantage on a dynamic construction site like EBTA.
“EBTA has been using FODS for just over a year now. Personally, I have been involved with projects that have been using them since the beginning of 2022. During this time, I’ve seen firsthand how they have transformed our operations, especially in terms of efficiency, ease of use and maintenance.”
FODS Trackout Control Mats are among the first durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly trackout systems available in Australia. They provide a simple and highly effective form of sediment control for projects of all sizes.
NATIONAL PRECAST WRITES, SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION IS MORE THAN JUST A TREND, IT’S A NECESSITY. AS CITIES STRIVE TO CREATE MORE EFFICIENT AND ECO-FRIENDLY INFRASTRUCTURE, PRECAST CONCRETE HAS EMERGED AS A CORNERSTONE IN TRANSFORMING HOW THE SECTOR BUILDS.
LOCATION: Tasmania, Australia
MASTER PRECASTER: Hudson Civil Products
CONTRACTOR: Shaw Contracting
CLIENT: Department of State Growth (DSG)
With its durability, efficiency and minimal environmental impact, precast concrete is driving the evolution of construction, creating cost-effective and rapid building solutions that are both resilient and sustainable.
One standout example of this approach is the Howth Precast Modular Toilet Block project in Tasmania, which showcases the advantages of precast concrete in a real-world application.
The Howth Precast Modular Toilet Block project was commissioned by the Department of State Growth (DSG) and executed by National Precast Master Precaster Hudson Civil Products in collaboration with Shaw Contracting. The project involved the design, manufacture and installation of a fully fitted-out toilet block for a public space in Tasmania.
The modular precast construction approach integrates the best qualities
of precast concrete with the efficiency of modular design, providing a highquality, environmentally responsible solution with precision finishes and highend accessories.
What would typically take months to build on-site was completed in just a matter of hours with the use of modular precast concrete. The units were premanufactured off-site, fully fitted out with plumbing and electrical services and delivered ready for installation.
An extremely rapid installation process not only reduced construction time but also minimised site disruption, highlighting the efficiency of precast concrete in streamlining public infrastructure projects.
As demand for quicker, more reliable and environmentally friendly construction solutions rises, precast concrete is leading the way with modular buildings in Tasmania.
The Howth Precast Modular Toilet Block offers a glimpse into the future of public infrastructure, where precast delivers sustainable, rapid and costeffective construction, setting new standards for durability, efficiency and sustainability.
IT’S TIME TO RETHINK AND RE-EMPHASISE THE SECTOR’S DEFINITION OF DIVERSITY, WRITES AUSTSTAB CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER TANJA CONNERS.
In the pavement recycling and stabilisation industry, discussions about sustainability often focus on measurable goals such as reducing carbon emissions, creating resilient pavements and promoting sustainable practices. While these are critical objectives, there’s an opportunity to broaden our approach by redefining what diversity means in this space.
Traditionally, diversity has centred on workforce composition, emphasising the inclusion of people from different backgrounds. But what if we expanded this concept to include diversity in materials, techniques, perspectives, applications, goals and stakeholder engagement? By doing so, we can open new avenues for innovation, sustainability and resilience.
DIVERSITY IN MATERIALS
The industry has already embraced the use of recycled materials like crushed concrete and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). However, the potential for material diversity goes even further.
Alternative binders, such as fly ash or
slag can reduce reliance on traditional resources while enhancing the durability and sustainability of pavements. By tailoring materials to specific environmental and project needs, we can build infrastructure that adapts to diverse conditions and challenges.
Recycling and stabilisation methods aren’t one-size-fits-all. Combining in-situ and ex-situ approaches, for example, allows the industry to customise solutions for unique site conditions.
Additionally, adopting region-specific strategies ensures infrastructure is designed to withstand Australia’s diverse climates, from the tropics to arid regions. Pairing these traditional methods with emerging technologies like predictive analytics and machine learning can also revolutionise maintenance and performance forecasting.
Collaboration across disciplines can unlock holistic solutions. Environmental scientists, urban planners, climate experts and economists bring unique insights that
Left: AustStab CEO Tanja Conners is hoping the industry can adopt more innovative and sustainable methods for pavement recycling and stabilisation.
can enhance the way we design, build and maintain pavements. Indigenous communities also offer invaluable knowledge about sustainable land use and resilience, providing lessons that align deeply with the industry’s goals.
The application of stabilisation techniques need not be limited to roads. Airstrips, industrial platforms, rural trails, railways and even urban heat mitigation projects can benefit from the industry’s expertise. Expanding the use of these techniques enables industry to address a broader range of infrastructure needs while building more adaptable and resilient systems.
Sustainability goals are evolving. While carbon reduction remains central, the industry can adopt a multi-faceted approach to sustainability that considers water conservation, biodiversity preservation and urban cooling. Balancing short-term cost savings with long-term social and environmental impacts ensures a more comprehensive commitment to future generations.
Finally, engaging a broader spectrum of stakeholders is key to driving meaningful change. Collaboration with local communities, policymakers, industry innovators and advocacy groups ensure that infrastructure projects reflect diverse needs and values. Designing pavements that serve a wide range of user groups – from rural areas to urban hubs – helps create equitable and inclusive infrastructure solutions.
By redefining diversity within the pavement recycling and stabilisation industry, we can align sustainability with innovation. Embracing diversity in materials, methods, perspectives, applications, goals and stakeholders not only enhances our ability to meet today’s challenges but also equips us to anticipate and solve the challenges of tomorrow.
As we look to the future, let’s commit to a broader, more inclusive vision for the industry – one that drives progress, fosters resilience and leaves a lasting positive impact on our communities and the environment.
This article invites industry professionals to rethink what diversity means in their projects and practices. By expanding this concept, we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in pavement recycling and stabilisation.
SAFETY TOOK CENTRE STAGE, AS THE AUSTRALIAN FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT ASSOCIATION AND THE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA HOSTED A LANDMARK SAFETY FORUM IN QUEENSLAND.
Bringing key players to the table, a landmark safety forum in Queensland in November 2024 had a clear mission: finding real solutions to protect road workers while keeping traffic flowing efficiently.
It expanded on the successful Australian Flexible Pavement Association (AfPA) Safety Forum held earlier in the year in New South Wales.
The forum embraced a collaborative mindset, emphasising that “there is NO IP in safety.” Rather than focusing on product promotions, discussions at the forum delved into the complex mix of procedures, workplace culture, and human behaviour that influence safety outcomes.
Professor Narelle Haworth from Queensland University of Technology’s Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (QUT CARRS-Q) shared an eye-opening perspective on risk perception.
She referenced the significant gap between what workers perceive as dangerous and what actually poses the greatest threats. This disconnect creates an opportunity to rethink safety approaches through human-centred designs that make workers feel both valued and visible.
O ne of the most thought-provoking insights concerned high-visibility vests and clothing that are used to protect workers. Research by QUT presented at the forum suggested that high-vis gear can unintentionally “dehumanise” workers in the eyes of passing motorists, potentially fuelling aggressive behaviour.
“When drivers see orange cones and fluorescent vests, instead of people with families and lives, it changes how they behave,” noted one participant.
The solution isn’t to ditch the safety
gear, but to complement it with campaigns that remind the public there are real people behind the vests.
A survey by the Traffic Management Association of Australia (TMAA) reinforced that keeping workers and traffic physically separated is crucial. Industry experts discussed how collaborating across disciplines could lead to innovative solutions such as advanced portable barriers and smarter exclusion zones.
While administrative controls (such as procedures and training) remain common, those at the forum acknowledged they’re often relied on too heavily. The future points toward engineered solutions and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered proximity systems that can alert workers to dangers before they become critical.
AMARAPAVE IS HELPING TO RESHAPE THE INDUSTRY BY PROVIDING INCLUSIVITY, OPPORTUNITIES AND ROLE MODELS FOR FEMALES, NON-BINARY INDIVIDUALS AND OTHER MINORITIES HOPING TO ENTER THE CONSTRUCTION AND ASPHALT SECTORS. MANAGING DIRECTOR
JENIKA STUBELJ, A SPEAKER AT THE 2025 CONVERGE EXPO, EXPLAINS.
The infrastructure and construction sectors have placed a great importance on the development of diverse workforces.
While the industry is working to address cultural reform, only three per cent of tradespeople are represented by women per SBS Online, highlighting the industry’s need to attract a more diverse cohort to battle workforce shortages.
It’s here, that Amarapave is helping to turn the tide.
The social enterprise specialises in asphalt paving services within the construction industry, with a distinctive mission to transform workforce diversity and inclusion.
As well as providing professional asphalt services, Amarapave is actively challenging industry stereotypes and creating employment opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Amarapave Managing Director
Jenika Stubelj says that while creating meaningful employment opportunities across different backgrounds and identities is a priority for the company, so too is the quality of its projects.
“We can deliver an asphalt paving job just as well as every other company with regards to quality. But we’re also showcasing that there’s a different way of thinking,” Stubelj says.
“Ash (MacMahon, Field Director
– Amarapave), who identifies as non-binary, runs our crew. I don’t think that’s been seen before in the asphalt industry.
“We’re very much about breaking stereotypes and empowering people. The best way to do that is to actually get out there and showcase our work.”
Converge expo 2025 is doing just that, by providing a platform for industry changers and leaders to showcase and exchange ideas and solutions, in the hope of improving the industry across the board.
Converge is a brand-new expo that for the first time will bring together Municipal Works and Commercial and Civil Construction, to provide attendees a glimpse at Australia’s infrastructure future.
“We work in a field where we’re always innovating, and we’re always looking for a better way to do things,” Stubelj says. “At trade shows like Converge, you go along with the intention to learn and see what the rest of the industry is doing.
“They’re a great collection of innovations, whether that’s in human resources, technology or people, there’s
usually something new to learn.”
Stubelj, along with four other speakers of note, will be presenting as part of Converge expo’s Championing Change panel, focusing on ‘building a workforce that reflects our communities’.
She says the panel will encourage attendees to consider diversity, reflect on their own experiences, and potentially drive change in their own organisations, through shared perspectives and stories.
“I think it’s really cool that there’s a
whole selection of really inspirational, powerful female role models that are going to be talking at this event,” she says. “When you have these opportunities and you can tell your story, quite often there’s going to be people in the audience that resonate.
“Ideally, it’s those people who can share our insights within their own organisations. Then, hopefully we’ll see more ripple effects.”
The Championing Change panel will also aim to provide more understanding around the benefits of a diverse workforce, explore the challenges faced by underrepresented groups, as well as showcase innovative approaches to breaking down traditional stereotypes.
The panel will also explore strategies for creating inclusive work environments. Speaking on this aspect, Stubelj says expectations from prospective employees have rightfully shifted, meaning organisations also need to adapt.
“People entering the workforce these days are looking at organisations through a cultural lens, and looking for workplaces that are serious about equality,” she says.
“Are there equitable opportunities for training and development? Do people feel like they can contribute their opinions? If they speak up about something, are they going to be heard, or are they going to be discriminated against for trying to go against the status quo?
“People naturally are drawn to that feeling and sense of purpose at work. You want to go to work and feel like you’re valued and you’re contributing to something, regardless of the financial compensation.”
Stubelj adds that less employees are driven by ‘I know someone that’s gone into that industry’ or ‘the money’s good over there’. Instead, she says organisations need to reflect and ask themselves: Are people feeling like they belong in the company?
It’s considerations such as this that’s led to the continued success and growth of Amarapave.
The company is now pushing and gathering momentum in its efforts towards winning additional contracts and tenders on state government projects.
“IT’S FANTASTIC WHEN WE CAN BRING SOMEONE IN WHO’S BEEN TRYING TO GET INTO CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND HAS HAD THE DOORS SHUT ON THEM. IT’S GREAT TO GIVE THOSE PEOPLE THAT OPPORTUNITY, THEN TO SEE THEM FLOURISH AND GROW.”
“I get a real buzz out of being able to create employment outcomes,” Stubelj says. “It’s fantastic when we can bring someone in who’s been trying to get into the construction industry and has had the doors shut on them. It’s great to give those people that opportunity, then to see them flourish and grow.
“We’re excited about continuing to
build the next generation of asphalters.” Converge will take place on September 17-18, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
For more information on exhibiting and attending, visit convergeexpo.com.au to download the prospectus, or contact our team directly on +61 3 9690 8766 or converge@primecreative.com.au
THE WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARDS WILL ONCE AGAIN CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMEN ACROSS KEY INDUSTRIAL SECTORS, SHINING A SPOTLIGHT O N THEIR LEADERSHIP, INNOVATION, AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO INDUSTRIES.
The 2025 Women in Industry Awards offer a unique platform to honour women making a significant impact in fields such as manufacturing, engineering, construction, energy, resources and transport.
The awards provide a unique opportunity for outstanding businesses to get onboard and demonstrate their support of women in their workplace and their industries.
This year, prominent sponsors of the event include Atlas Copco Australia, PACCAR Australia, Kenter Logistics and Fulton Hogan.
These companies know how important it is to celebrate the achievements of women, so that they can be role models for future generations.
Several prestigious awards are still available for sponsorship, including Business Development Success of the Year, Mentor of the Year, Industry Advocacy Award, and Excellence in Manufacturing, Engineering, Mining,
Construction, and Energy awards.
The benefits of supporting the Women in Industry Awards are immense. Sponsors gain high visibility, enhance their reputation as being supportive of women in the workplace, and network with influential leaders across industries.
Additionally, there are three key sponsorship benefits. The first is promoting corporate values as an equal opportunity employer; with progressive policies encouraging women in management
There will also be opportunities for networking among peers and influencers in mining, manufacturing, engineering, energy and commercial road transport industries
This is on top of extensive media coverage and exposure through editorial and advertising.
Prime Creative Media has been proud to host the Women in Industry Awards since 2014, celebrating the women who are driving change in multiple industries
and – in doing so – breaking down barriers and creating new possibilities for the next generation.
These may be women you work with, women whose achievements inspire you from afar, or women who are providing you with invaluable guidance and support. We believe their dedication and exceptionalism should be celebrated.
Award categories include, Business Development Success of the Year, Excellence in Construction, Excellence in Engineering, Excellence in Energy, Excellence in Manufacturing, Excellence in Mining, Excellence in Transport – Proudly sponsored by Kenter, Industry Advocacy Award, Mentor of the Year, Rising Star of the Year – Proudly sponsored by Atlas Copco, Safety Advocacy Award – Proudly sponsored by Paccar Australia and Woman of the Year – Proudly sponsored by Fulton Hogan.
Get involved today in Australia’s most exciting celebration of excellence.
The awards night will take place on 19 June 2025 in Melbourne.
The A30 and A40 haulers are now also among the largest in Volvo CE’s electric portfolio with a payload of 26 tonnes and 35 tonnes respectively.
Focusing on zero-emission machinery, Volvo CE also showcased a range of other electric equipment, including the revamped EC230 excavator, its compact excavator range, and the company’s first battery-powered wheeled excavator –the EWR150. In addition, Volvo Trucks and Putzmeister revealed one of the world’s largest battery-electric concrete pump trucks. The zero-exhaust emission battery-electric concrete pump with a reach of 42 metres will be delivered to Swedish construction company Swerock.
Looking to the future, CASE Construction Equipment stood out for its cabinless ‘Impact’ electric compact wheel loader concept.
Instead of being operated from the inside, the machine is remotely operated from a dedicated control lounge. This feature enables operations in extreme environments and adverse weather conditions, ensuring the safety and comfort of the operator.
The concept also includes an integrated perception system, which uses advanced hardware to collect real-time data, improving efficiency and precision during operation. Additionally, the Impact concept is equipped with semiautonomous functionality, allowing automated digging and dumping.
With one of most extensive electric machine portfolios, LiuGong showcased its latest zero-emission innovations, including the 870HE wheel loader, its 924FE excavator with high-lift cab, and the 9018FE mini excavator.
The company’s next-generation T-Series wheel loaders were another highlight, being unveiled after years of customer feedback and refinement. The flagship model of the T-Series, the 890T has a 10.5 tonne load capacity and a 5.4 cubic metre bucket. It offers enhanced fuel efficiency, increased operator comfort, and total maintenance access, making it the ideal choice for demanding mining and quarrying applications.
Additionally, LiuGong’s electric DR50CE rigid mining truck was on display, as well as the electric 4280DE motor grader,
which the company says is the first of its kind in its size class.
Another exhibitor focused on the future of construction equipment was Hitachi with its ‘LANDCROS One’ excavator concept. Hitachi says its integrated AI and automation systems benefit the operator by handling routine tasks and providing intelligent assistance during complex operations.
The functional design integrates cameras, sensors, and advanced digital assist systems co-developed with strategic partners. LANDCROS One also features advanced connectivity and remote operation capabilities.
It can be controlled from virtually anywhere, enabling true 24/7 operation through different time zones and allowing specialised operators to work across multiple sites without physical relocation.
Recognising the differing needs of today’s construction workforce, the excavator offers three distinct operation modes, including manual operation supported by AI, autonomous operation, and remote operation.
Hitachi also showcased its growing lineup of zero-emission machines from 1.7 to 30 tonnes. This includes nine models as well as its first hydrogen solutions.
Two battery-powered electric excavators were a highlight of Kobelco’s exhibit. A 5.9-tonne class electric excavator, currently under development, was shown for the first time in the world at the German event. Also under development, a 0.9-tonne class electric excavator was revealed for the first time.
Kobelco says the electric excavators are characterised by their ability to manoeuvre in tight spaces on urban sites, high per-charge capacity, and their performance comparable to diesel excavators in terms of digging and speed.
Several machines made their world premiere at Liebherr Group’s exhibit, including its first battery-powered electric crawler excavator. Liebherr says the R 920 G8-E generates the same output as a diesel machine in the same category and is particularly suitable for building sites that require low noise levels and avoiding exhaust gas emissions, such as in cities or underground operating locations.
Two new Liebherr wheeled excavators in the nine and 11 tonne classes were also shown off to the public for the first
time – the A 909 Compact and the A 911 Compact.
Visitors experienced the debut of the 15-tonne R 915 Compact G8 crawler excavator model. With an output of 90 kilowatts (122 horsepower) it is designed especially for use in tight spaces or on city building sites. Joining Liebherr’s range of compact crawler excavators over 14-tonnes was the 17.5-tonne R 917 Compact G8. Also making its world debut at bauma, it boasts 100 kilowatts of power (136 horsepower) and has a compact tail swing radius of 1700 millimetres.
New to Liebherr’s telehandler product range was the Generation 6 T 38-7s telescopic handler and the Liebherr T 48-8s. The T 48-8s is the first of the company’s telescopic handlers in the eight-metre class.
Participating in bauma for the first time since rebranding from Doosan in 2023, Develon showcased a range of products from electric to specialised machinery.
A standout of its exhibit was Real-X, the commercial version of the unmanned autonomous solution Concept-X2, which was first introduced in Europe at the 2024 Intermat.
Additionally, Develon demonstrated a collaboration with heavy machinery automation company Gravis Robotics, which it signed a Joint Development
Agreement with, showcasing how unmanned excavators work in tandem with articulated dump trucks.
Visitors to Hyundai’s exhibit had the opportunity to experience firsthand next-generation models, alongside more than 20 pieces of advanced equipment.
The company also demonstrated its hydrogen-powered excavator, which was listed as the one of the final nominees at the International bauma Innovation Award in the climate protection category.
Highlighting its commitment to electrification, Sany introduced its SY35E mini excavator, an all-electric alternative in the 3.5-tonne class.
This machine marks the second electrified machine to join Sany’s mini excavator lineup and can operate for up to six hours on a single charge.
Another brand-new addition to the Sany portfolio was its one-tonne SY10U excavator – which is the company’s first micro excavator. The SY10U is powered by a modern Kubota diesel engine delivering 8.8 kilowatts (11.8 horsepower) of power.
The ultra-compact machine with zero tail swing has been specially designed for the smallest job sites, narrow gardens, and confined working areas. A special feature is the hydraulically adjustable undercarriage, which can be extended from a narrow 745 millimetres up to 1100 millimetres. This allows the SY10U to easily pass through doorways and narrow passages.
Additionally, Sany presented its first compact electric six-metre telehandler, the STH625E.
Chinese construction machinery manufacturer Lovol made its debut at bauma 2025. The company showcased its mini-excavator lineup, including its FR18F-E electric model, which is powered by a 21.5 kilowatt per hour Weichai battery.
The FL918 wheel loader was also on display, which is powered by a Kubota stage V engine and has a 1.2 cubic metre bucket capacity. Lovol says it is optimised for high efficiency and versatility in material handling.
ROADS &
Downer has announced that it has received an extension of its EMOS (Estate Maintenance and Operation Services) contract with the Australian Department of Defence. The six-month extension will see Downer continue its base and estate management and support services, delivering transport services, land management services and estate upkeep for Defence sites across Queensland, New South Wales and the ACT. Downer is an ADM (Australian Defence Magazine) Top 10 Defence Contractor, having provided services to both the Australian Defence Force and the New Zealand Defence Force. Downer has worked in this space in a range of capacities for 80 years. Downer is currently awaiting the outcome of the next generation EMOS tender, with the outcome expected prior to the end of the current financial year.
The Melbourne Airport Rail Link (MARL) is one step closer following a commitment by the Federal and Victorian governments and Australia Pacific Airports Corporation. All three parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together to commence delivery of the rail link. It builds on the Federal Government’s recent $2 billion funding announcement for the project and follows years of delays. A Steering Committee, led by senior officials from each organisation, will now be established to decide the priorities and manage the project. It was announced during the 2024 budget that the Airport Rail Link would be pushed back by at least four years to 2032, following disagreements on where to build the airport station. The total cost of the project is estimated to be up to $13 billion.
Contract awarded for redevelopment of Penrith Stadium
The redevelopment of Penrith Stadium in New South Wales has hit a major milestone, with the State Government awarding a contract to deliver the stadium and surrounding entertainment precinct. The contract has been awarded to John Holland, which has extensive experience delivering large and complex construction projects including the Sydney Football Stadium (Allianz). The project will transform the precinct into a modern venue for sport and entertainment. The $309 million redevelopment of Penrith Stadium will continue to cater for men’s NRL matches, but it will also benefit the women’s NRL competition and support the growth of female representation in sports with new player facilities and changerooms. The training field to the west of the stadium will be remodelled to create new quality open spaces with multipurpose courts and improved landscaping to enable further outdoor community use and entertainment events. The proposed design responds to feedback from over 3000 fans, families and community members since 2022. It will be a familyfriendly design that respects the stadium’s history and importance to the local community.
Motorists will soon benefit from safer and smoother journeys along the Central Coast Highway in New South Wales with plans progressing to upgrade the intersection at Tumbi Road. Daracon Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract, and construction work will start in mid-2025. Three contractors were shortlisted and invited to tender in mid2024, with Daracon Pty Ltd named the successful contractor after a rigorous
evaluation process. The Federal and State governments are investing $65.5 million to upgrade the notorious bottleneck as part of plans to improve traffic flow and safety on the Central Coast Highway between Wamberal and Bateau Bay. The Tumbi Road Intersection upgrade is jointly funded with the Federal Government providing $52.4 million and the New South Wales Government providing $13.1 million. Transport for NSW carried out extensive community consultation, with the outcomes published online in June 2022, and essential early works were completed in 2023. The project is expected to create more than 100 full-time-equivalent jobs across planning, design and construction. The project will take about two years to complete, weather permitting.
The New South Wales Government has awarded a contract for construction of the long-awaited $100 million Pitt Town bypass. Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure will build the bypass which will connect Pitt Town Road with Cattai Road and feature two new roundabouts and a bridge across Hortons Creek. Construction work on the 950-metre bypass will start in coming months. More than 10,000 vehicles use the existing road every day and traffic volumes in the peak are expected to increase by 40 per cent in coming years. The new bypass will provide an alternative to driving through Pitt Town and significantly reduce the number of trucks driving through the town centre. It will also reduce travel times, especially between Windsor and Wisemans Ferry. These improvements to the road network will enhance flood resilience for local residents by improving traffic flow and road safety in and around Pitt Town, which will be vital if there is a need for future emergency evacuations. The Pitt Town bypass is expected to open to traffic in late 2026.
