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ISSUE 99 | OCTOBER 2026 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AUSTRALASIAN SOCIETY FOR TRENCHLESS TECHNOLOGY

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Contents ISSUE 99

OCT 2026

HDD

VELVET UNDERGROUND At the coalface

TRENCHLESS TRIALS The only way is through

COVER STORY Urban warrior

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND 2026

Larger than life

Pilot season

Quiet achiever

Giant steps

NON-DESTRUCTIVE DIGGING 74

New kids on the block

EVENTS

A bigger edge

Leaps of faith

Entering the next stage

Strong foundations

The right stuff

River runs through it

Intro

Chain reaction

Floorplan

When the going gets tough

Sponsor profiles

Security footage

Conference program

Riders on the storm

Exhibitor profiles

German engineering, local expertise

Exhibitor booths

111

Close-fit pressure lining expands in New Zealand

Convention centre map

112

Generation now

REGULARS

Analyse this

Editor’s letter

Journey to Middle Earth

From the ASTT President

Events

News

From the ASTT Secretary

103

ASTT corporate members

104

People on the move

106

MICROTUNNELLING Common ground

We built this city

The shape of water

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND 2026 PROGRAM GUIDE

This magazine is the official journal of the Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology (ASTT) and is distributed to members and other interested parties throughout Australia and the Asia-Pacific. It is also available on subscription. The publishers welcome editorial contributions from interested parties. However, neither the publishers nor the ASTT accept responsibility for the content of these contributions and the views contained therein are not necessarily the views of the publishers or the ASTT. Neither the publishers nor the ASTT accept responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. All communications should be directed to the publishers. Unless explicitly stated otherwise in writing, by providing editorial material to Prime Creative Media (PCM), including text and images, you are providing permission for that material to be subsequently used by PCM, whole or in part, edited or unchanged, alone or in combination with other material in any publication or format in print or online or howsoever distributed, whether produced by PCM and its agents and associates or another party to whom PCM has provided permission.

20 6 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Cover image: XPower A newly acquired TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 20ACS HDD rig has redefined the trenchless capabilities of XPower. Image: TRACTO

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Notes from the underground William Craske Editor

C CHAIRMAN

John Murphy CEO

Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au MANAGING EDITOR

Eugene Duffy eugene.duffy@primecreative.com.au EDITORIAL

William Craske william.craske@primecreative.com.au BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Nick Lovering nick.lovering@primecreative.com.au HEAD OF DESIGN

Clayton Hawley clayton.hawley@primecreative.com.au DESIGNER

Michelle Weston ARTICLES All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Head Office 379 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008 Ph: +61 3 9690 8766 enquiries@primecreative.com.au www.primecreative.com.au Sydney Office Suite 11.01, Level 11, 201 Miller St, North Sydney, 2060

onvention requires the world of underground works to hold discoveries quite literally unforeseen. Some more unforeseen than others. As many operators find out daily, geotechnical surveys are far from infallible often leaving crews discovering nasty subterranean surprises whether it be difficult ground conditions or objects backfilled and forgotten over the years. Occasionally these finds have great significance historical and otherwise. Volcanic rock changes observed amid tunnel boring on Snowy 2.0 have revealed fossilised coral reef at multiple sites. Ancient artefacts, some reportedly 5000 years old, have been discovered during works undertaken by Yarra Valley Water’s Community Sewerage Program three years ago. Around the same time, a construction crew near County Cork found a 1000-year old souterrain, an underground structure archaeologists associate with the European Atlantic Iron Age. In the Spring of 1963, a Texas Highway Department drilling team was taking core samples to determine if the ground was stable enough to support a large highway overpass on Interstate 35. As they were drilling one of the test holes, the bit suddenly dropped, 26ft in the old scale, through solid limestone. A worker by the name of Jack Bigham was lowered down on the drill stem to enter the cavern. What he found was a limestone cave system that had been sealed off from the surface for thousands of years, filled with flowstone, soda straw formations, and still pools. Bones of extinct animals like mammoths, mastodons, and sabre-toothed cats were eventually found inside what is now a popular tourist attraction known as Inner Space Cavern. In something of a reversal, it was archaeologists who were the first to unearth the world’s oldest known rotary metal drill. The discovery, just on a century ago in

Egypt, was initially catalogued as an ancient copper awl before researchers from Newcastle University and the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna this year officially re-identified it. Close inspection under magnification revealed clear signs of rotary use. The tip of the 5,300year old object showed fine parallel lines with the edges appearing rounded from repeated motion. A slight bend near the working end corresponded with stresses incurred from spinning against hard material. These traces reportedly differed from damage caused by simple pushing or piercing. In fact, small coils of dried leather still clung to the shaft. Researchers have linked these fibres to a bow drill system. In such a device, a cord wraps around a drill shaft. A bow moves back and forth, spinning the drill quickly. Later Egyptian tomb paintings show workers using similar tools to bore holes in beads and wood. The piece dates to the late fourth millennium BC, long before the first pharaohs ruled. In this case excavations, or what emerges from them, help us learn more about, well, the origins of excavations. Trenchless and other subsurface operations are continually revealing much that is hidden about the world and promise to deepen our understanding of how we got to where we are. Sometimes they serve to simply deepen the mystery. Earlier this year, the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System in Alabama, required the Gulf Coast Regional Maritime Response and Render-Safe Team to retrieve and detonate an improvised explosive device (IED) found underwater at the Converse Reservoir dam. The grenade-type device was initially located by divers surveying the dam for routine repair and maintenance. A multi-agency response was then coordinated for analysis, retrieval, and safe demolition. Keeping drinking water safe, as the utilities like to say, here brings with it a whole new meaning. william.craske@primecreative.com.au

Printed by: Precision Group 83-89 Freight Drive, Somerton, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 3062 8 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Trenchless Australasia is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Trenchless Australasia is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made

to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Trenchless Australasia are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated. © Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2021

Excellence in tunneling for water, wastewater and energy infrastructure. With a focus on safety, innovation and collaborative delivery over the last 35 years, Rob Carr has achieved outstanding outcomes in water, wastewater and energy infrastructure projects in both Australia and overseas. Rob Carr is part of Soletanche Bachy a world leader in foundation and soil technologies and subsidiary of VINCI, a global player in construction across more than 100 countries. With outstanding capabilities to manage the complexities of any project, Rob Carr has the people, knowledge and experience to deliver success.

robcarr.com.au

From the President Blair Telfer President, ASTT THE AUSTRALASIAN SOCIETY FOR TRENCHLESS TECHNOLOGY ABN 43 893 870 966 P.O. Box 2242, MALAGA LPO WA 6944 www.astt.com.au President: Blair Telfer Secretary: Trevor Gosatti Vice President: Ash Hamer

COUNCILLORS Western Australia: Aizezi Jiang Queensland: Ben Crosby New South Wales: Jason Marshal Victoria: Ash Hamer South Australia: Shaun Melville New Zealand: Blair Telfer Northern Territory: Luke Woodward Tasmania: Vacant

10 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

t’s been edifying to hear from so many trenchless practitioners ahead of International No-Dig Auckland, the first time the annual ISTT event has been held in New Zealand. Excitement continues to build around the program, whose guide you can consult in these very pages. One of the main attractions is the trenchless training sessions that are run in conjunction with the conference. The three sessions, this year, cover Horizontal Directional Drilling, Renovation of Pipes and New Installation Methods. Led by industry experts these sessions are sources of valuable practical knowledge. I’d like to thank my fellow ASTT councillors and the support organisations for helping these come to fruition. In such a competitive environment a special mention is deserving to those of you who have been recognised with nominations for the ISTT’s No-Dig Awards. A congratulations to one and all. At a personal level I want to take the opportunity to thank the ASTT council

for supporting Auckland NZ as their venue option. As I have often said before, it also puts to rest any talk about Australasia being ‘behind’ internationally when it comes to trenchless technology. We all should be very proud of our achievements on what is a global international stage. We often punch well above our weight. On another note, the incredible efforts of the ASTT Pipelining SIG and Sudipta Basu, interim Councillor, deserve recognition. Production of the ASTT design specification and its registration with Standards Australia’s Prioritisation and Selection Process is well underway. This is a wonderful achievement and acknowledgement of much hard work on what is the Standard for Structural Design of Flexible Pipe-liner for Circular Pipe – WS-028 Design and Installation of Buried Flexible Pipes. A big thank you to all those involved. Soon enough we shall turn our attention to our local No-Dig Downunder in Sydney. The event is scheduled for July with tickets on sale and planning already well advanced.

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VELVET UNDERGROUND

At the coalface Renowned for tackling daunting projects on both sides of the Tasman, McConnell Dowell continues to push the boundaries on no-dig technology. Trenchless Lead Paul Cooper is at the coalface of these developments.

“S

ometimes, when projects don’t go perfectly, you can learn a lot,” observed Paul Cooper, McConnell Dowell - Trenchless Lead. The prominent civil infrastructure solutions provider is in constant pursuit of innovation. Specialist large scale projects – preferably the more challenging – often provide the basis to foster some of its richest operational discoveries. Cooper, who is embedded in this domain of the business understands better than most why it is a point of pride at the company. “Technology and technical changes are accelerating,” he said. “When I first started in the business these advances were more incremental. A lot of trenchless projects that we do now are very complicated. They seem to be getting trickier which does play into our hands, actually, because we like to do the tricky stuff that allows us to use our technical capabilities. That’s an area we like to play in.” Trenchless technology forms a cornerstone of McConnell Dowell’s expansive critical infrastructure operations. With nearly $80 million worth of trenchless equipment alone in New Zealand, the business is heavily invested in both the trenchless segment and substratarelated works. Underground projects are more challenging these days as consultants and clients better understand the technologies and what can be achieved. “They’re being less cautious than they have been before as they are willing to push the boundaries a little bit,” said Cooper. “A lot of the open cut and more straight forward civil works have been done, and now we’re getting to the older assets, the more complex and urgent stuff. This includes renewal of existing pipelines and more in the utility market, where we are expecting to see increased use of trenchless technology to keep pace with demand driven by urban development.” McConnell Dowell continues to lead the way as far as early adoption of new technologies goes supported by an in-house engineering team working hand-in-glove with the estimating and operations teams which in turn gives them a powerful technical capability according to Cooper. When combined with their leading equipment supplier partnerships, McConnell Dowell has established a

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Paul Cooper, McConnell Dowell Trenchless Lead.

commanding position to optimise and adopt new technology. This is also supported by ambitious projects for the lessons taught by their examples, combined with fresh ideas. Hūnua 4 Section 11 ranks high on a list of its projects with the highest degree of difficulty. It required the design and construction of 3.5km of water main, 3.2km of which were installed through basalt rock formed, in some cases, around mined lava caves. The learnings, not to mention capability drawn from the experience, have been enormous going forward. “The more of these projects you do, and sometimes the harder they are to complete, the more you learn,” said Cooper. “Subsequently, the more confidence that you get.” To pick over Cooper’s career is to uncover some of the gears that make the trenchless world tick in New Zealand. Based in Auckland, he is a 30-year veteran acquainted closely with the latest developments in the trenchless underground since his earliest days at Harker Underground Construction. He rose to General Manager there before joining McConnell Dowell in 2010 where he has been ever since. Cooper has noticed, in recent times, one notable client move from construct-only projects to Design & Construct (D&C). This, in turn, has encouraged the business to innovate. Because trenchless can involve so many different options when clients opt for construct-only they can end up endlessly burning time and cost, often resulting in conservative solutions. D&C cuts through chokepoints to deduce fewer options quicker and more efficiently. “It can often become a race to see who can put the pipe in cheapest,” Cooper said.

Clarks Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant Southwest Outfall project in Auckland.

“But if you can win a job using a smarter technology, that’s much better from a contractor perspective. You’ve got better control over all things, as long as you meet what the client wants, and you can showcase your capabilities, and grow technical capability as well, because now we can bring in our engineering team that move more into a solution support role , actually helping us win work as well. Which is way more rewarding and builds team culture.” E-Power Pipe is McConnell Dowell’s next evolutionary step. The still relatively young technology from Herrenknecht installs small bore pipes <DN700. It’s fast, accurate technology that makes possible drive lengths up to 2km, on grade without the degree of frac-out risk associated with HDD. Cooper recently travelled to Frankfurt in Germany to inspect an E-Power unit McConnell Dowell is set to introduce into its operations — the first in the Southern Hemisphere at Warkworth at the end of this year. “This is next-level technology that really excites me,” he said. “E-Power is like direct pipe, minus the welding and without the steel pipe. Normally it would take us about 12 hours to do a welded connection on a pipe

string for the direct pipe, whereas E-Power takes ten minutes. This is likely to prompt a massive change in mindset.” In addition to saving time, Cooper anticipates that E-Power will also generate cost savings for small bore installations in tricky ground that is difficult to install using HDD. This method will allow the company to target expansion into the utility market including gas pipelines, watermains, power ducting — a new and exciting part of the market. “We have high hopes for E-Power in the utilities space it is a big expensive piece of equipment that needs to generate income, but we do see significant demand” he said. “It’s transportable. If we get some track record in New Zealand where we will trial it initially and we’re very comfortable with it then we can certainly use it over in Australia as well.” While Cooper doesn’t foresee E-Power replacing horizontal directional drilling any time soon, it does provide another sophisticated option for McConnell Dowell to offer its clients during the formative planning stages of prospective projects. “It’s just another option we can call on,” he added, “if it makes sense to do HDD then

Images: McConnell Dowell

VELVET UNDERGROUND

Snells Algies wastewater pipe and outfall construction project.

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 13

VELVET UNDERGROUND

Queen Street combined a direct pipe application with pipe checking.

Herrenknecht E-Power Pipe unit.

you would do that.” Herrenknecht, as much as McConnell Dowell, benefits from the subsequent real-world data and capabilities derived from the partnership and modifies their technology accordingly. It’s been a mutually beneficial relationship developed over many years. The RP03 project in Sydney, where McConnell Dowell is contracted to reinstate and replace over 10km of historic CLMS DN900 drinking water main originally built in 1936, is another opportunity for the partnership to flourish. This will include a 700m Direct Pipe crossing under Lane Cove national park. This will be the first Direct Pipe use in Australia which among other firsts, helps Herrenknecht break into a new market. Direct pipe is another methodology that has become increasingly important to the business since it was first introduced in 2019 on the Army Bay Ocean Outfall. This technique has been progressively optimised 14 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

over six other projects recently resulting in the development of a hybrid methodology on its Queen Street project in Auckland in which normal pipe checking was combined with direct pipe. The result was the ability to use a direct pipe machine in the middle of the city to install DN1000. “On the face of it that doesn’t seem like much of a big deal, but what it meant was that we were able to install quite a small diameter pipe a long way, where you would normally use a much smaller machine, and you probably need interjacks, or you might have even needed an intermediate shaft,” recalled Cooper. “The kind of stuff that is not readily available in a dense urban CBD environment. It’s a simple methodology, but we think it’s got great potential.” As progress continues being made in guidance systems, Cooper foresees there being room for major improvements especially with the wider uptake of AI technology

“Certainly, it’s early days, and there’s a little bit of low level assistance going on in the E-Power equipment because it uses multiple sources of information to guide the machine,” he added. “That can be a bit overwhelming for humans.” Having these many different tried and tested methodologies at its disposal means McConnell Dowell can offer a solution that is tailored to the actual project. “We’re not a one-trick pony. We look at the project and identify the ground conditions and we outline the parameters,” said Cooper. “And we recommend the best methodology at a best price and lowest risk. Having that range of capability combined with the technical support allows us to offer clients the most efficient and best solution for projects, rather than only one or two options to pick from. Having a suite that we can we can look at gives us quite a big advantage.”

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TRENCHLESS TRIALS

The only way is through A trenchless solution from Primus Line has been installed by industry partner Beca, Fulton Hogan, Interflow (BFHI) joint venture on behalf of South East Water setting a precedent for the Melbourne utility.

would require a solution that would have to be versatile enough to minimise the various disruptions open-cut excavations would introduce in this environment not to mention the myriad permits and subsequent timeconsuming approvals. Vertical bends in at least two points of the pipeline effectively ruled out the option of a slip line given the digging that would be necessary to make that methodology work. Open trench or lift and relay would, in this sense, be possible but highly disruptive. In addition to several residential properties, the watermain runs under a creek and the six-lane

Nepean Highway and out to Dalston Grove where it somewhat mercifully continues along the street under the roadway, rather than in private residences. Other decisive interventions were not without inherent challenges such as a steep ravine leading to a creek with restricted access that the pipelines crosses. Kackeraboite Creek, as it is known, was partially dammed with sandbags to isolate existing fittings on the watermain. As preparations were being finalised, it would pour with rain for a few days leaving the ground sloppy and unstable. Access was now limited to utilising a five-tonne excavator at the Images: South East Water

he replacement of a 75-year-old watermain on a mountain or down it, depending on which way you look at it, is no conventional task. The way you look at it, as a matter of understatement, is crucial. South East Water, the Melbourne utility whose catchment the watermain falls under in the leafy peninsula suburb of Mount Eliza, was confronted with 525mm diameter main that traversed nature reserves, private residences, a highway and other encumbrances not likely to have been an issue when it was constructed back in 1955. At a distance of 825 metres, replacement of the watermain

Key members from the Beca, Fulton Hogan, Interflow joint venture.

16 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

TRENCHLESS TRIALS

Mt Eliza coastline on Port Phillip Bay.

I D M CR O

location which was inadequate to lift the right trench management controls needed into place. Customarily, a much larger excavator would be used to lift and position the heavy plates to help prevent the ground around the work site from collapsing. Even with the smaller machine in use only one side of the embankment could be safely accessed. All these limitations, in short, made it difficult to get a compliant trench management system in place. The rehabilitation works were undertaken by South East Water’s industry partner BFHI whose Project Manager Reece Paulzen acknowledged a few of the obstacles that eventually had to be overcome. “We were originally going to remove a scour valve but by the time we had the Primus Liner delivered from Germany the weather had changed,” he told Trenchless Australasia. “What had been a wetlands became a flowing creek,

so we had to reconsider and decided not to proceed with reinstalling that scour but instead to pull the liner straight through it.” A vegetation protection overlay would prohibit the removal of any plants without written approval which could take months, even years, making it impossible to create an access track for machinery. An arborist was brought in to assess the affected area before BHFI created a construction environment management plan in conjunction with South East Water. Another pitfall to avoid were excavations on the busy Nepean Highway where a 22.5º vertical bend in the watermain was located, before it drops down into the creek. At 825m, the distance covered by the watermain can be considered deceptive because it runs through undulating and at times densely vegetated terrain peppered with houses. Some of these

properties contain landscaping/built features that make these rehabilitation works almost inconceivable in anything other than a trenchless application. The focus on minimising impacts on residents and South East Water customers had helped reduce excavations on properties which were, in the end, negligible according to Sam Woods, BHFI Project Coordinator. “There was reduction in the pipe diameter in the property where a horizontal bend is located,” she told Trenchless Australasia. “So, we had to dig down and remove that bend and then reinstall a large diameter bend. That was then backfilled. We were in there for a week or two to do that and we were able to reinstate that area and not return. We’ve actually pulled the liner through that section.” A connection point in a private property saw an excavation 4m long by 2m wide made

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TRENCHLESS TRIALS

Primus Line technology about to be winched into the watermain.

to receive the first section of liner which had been installed initially from Gillards Road. BFHI subsequently installed a hydrant valve assembly for South East Water’s use in the future. An existing air valve was also removed before a new one was reinstalled. That section was then pressure tested before the second section of liner was installed to tie the whole line together. It was decided, following approvals from Melbourne Water whose jurisdiction the creek comes within, that the works would be split into two stages to navigate time pressures. CCTV inspections were captured of the steepest bend in the main where some debris was removed before the footage was sent off to Primus Line who promptly reviewed the footage and confirmed that it would be possible to pull the liner straight through the section in question. BHFI sourced technical installation specialists from Interflow in Sydney who subsequently sent down a team who had worked with the Primus Line technology previously to support the installation of the first section of the liner. The second section was installed by the Melbourne BHFI team. 18 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

“It’s been a real learning curve for all of us,” said Woods. “When we’re having to flush the main at the end water is pulled in from other mains and because it is such a large pipe it impacts the water flow elsewhere, so it had to be carefully planned and timed.” Primus Line was chosen, in something of a first for South East Water and BFHI, as the rehabilitation solution. The flexible, multilayered, Kevlar-reinforced system engineered for pressure pipelines was carried by truck on a spool that can cover 1.7km, if needed, and unravelled carefully with the use of a winch. Once Primus Line is introduced into the existing pipeline it takes 100 per cent of the operating pressure off the host pipe which is used as a conduit that guides the liner point to point. All the strain associated with the operating pressure is essentially removed according to Rädlinger Primus Line Engineer Heiko Manzke who was on hand for the second section of liner installation. “The flexibility of the product, and its small footprint allows us to keep the carbon footprint in the transport very small, allows us to transport a long piece of pipeline material at once,” he said. “It also therefore allows, in this

case, South East Water to rehabilitate a very long shot of pipeline with very limited access points because we can pull in a long piece of Primus Line at once.” All spools, which are manufactured in Germany, are designed to fit either a 20ft- or 40ft-container. These can unspool to lengths of four kilometres for bigger treatment pipelines if needed. With a total of only three access points and bends of 22 degrees and 45-degrees to contend with, a rigid solution like slip lining with a standard polyethylene pipe, for example, is wholly unsuitable. “Let’s say the pipeline does not have bends and slip lining, in this case for over 500 metres in one direction is hypothetically viable you still would have to lay out 500 metres of slip line,” said Manzke. “Where do you put it? You would block off the entire road and obstruct every driveway.” Local community is one of many beneficiaries, a matter explicitly asserted by Manzke. Carbon footprint, according to his calculations on past projects, can be reduced operationally by up to 90 per cent. “If you live in the area you don’t want to be inhaling carbon dioxide,” he said. “It means less generators and less large machinery. It’s less earth movements as well. It’s less reinstating the pavement because it’s just one tiny hole in the ground in the green strip that you can just refill once you’re done — that’s it.” Primus Line installation is a simple and highly effective solution to what is typically a daunting scenario for many asset owners. It has certainly cultivated key learnings for BFHI and South East Water and provided it with another non-invasive option for ageing critical infrastructure. For pipeline renewal the solution shows immense promise for replication on other, similar projects. South East Water General Manager Liveable Water Solutions, Charlie Littlefair said the organisation was excited about the possibilities of trenchless technology, highlighting that replacing the watermain through traditional construction methods would have been highly disruptive given the terrain, environmental sensitivities and residential properties along the alignment. “This project presented a unique set of challenges, with the pipeline crossing private properties, a creek, nature reserves and a major arterial road,” he said “By using a trenchless solution, we were able to extend the life of this critical asset while significantly reducing construction impacts, protecting the surrounding environment and maintaining reliable water services for our customers.” Littlefair added, “The success of this project shows the benefits of using innovative rehabilitation technologies to renew ageing infrastructure in complex locations across our network.” For more information, visit interflow.com.au/

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Urban warrior A newly acquired TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 20ACS HDD rig has redefined the trenchless capabilities of XPower, an evolving civil construction contractor, working primarily on upgrading Victoria’s energy infrastructure.

or Melbourne-based contractor XPower, the purchase of a new TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 20ACS HDD rig represents the latest milestone in a journey that began nearly 50 years ago. Established by Don and Sue Miriklis under DH&SF Miriklis, the business initially started out supporting State Electricity Commission (SEC) crews with a single bobcat as telegraph poles were replaced across the state in the late 1970s. Their son Harry joined the business in 1992, operating a bobcat and backhoe to install electrical supply pits. Five years later, the partnership began trading as Miriklis Earthmoving before transitioning to a registered company when their other son Stan joined the business full time in 2000. In July 2007, the company was rebranded as XPower - x for excavations, power for the industry segment - and rapidly cemented its place within Victoria’s electrical supply and Stan Miriklis at the XPower Coburb North depot with the new TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 20ACS HDD rig ready for mobilisation.

20 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

infrastructure sector. As a child, the scope of the business left an immediate impression on Stan, drawing the comparison of “an adult version of a sandpit”. He would often go to work with his father on school holidays, giving him an understanding of the foundational layers of the business from an early age, specifically a commitment to working hard. “That work ethic was ingrained in me and my brother.” said Miriklis. “It’s something that is the foundation of XPower and nonnegotiable in the business.” While the changes to the industries and services XPower works within have been countless, many of the faces have stayed the same. “My dad has had the same relationship with guys who started out as apprentice linesman who are now in senior management of these companies,” said Miriklis.

“Once the industry was privatised everything became vastly more competitive. It remains a highly competitive market these days, so we’re always looking for ways that we can give ourselves a competitive advantage, ensuring our service offering is the best in the market.” As part of the residential dual occupancy developments undertaken in the housing boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s, XPower was responsible for the installation of underground electrical infrastructure from the existing power pole to the property service pit. These works included trenching, conduit installation, cable placement, reinstatement of affected surfaces, and coordination with the relevant utility to provide compliant and reliable power connections to newly created allotments and dwellings. “When we were first notified of where the industry was headed, we were onboard and showed we were committed,” said Miriklis. “We want to be that company that whenever

Images: Xpower

you call, we are able to offer a solution. As the network requirements have changed, we have evolved with it.” Another turning point came in 2009 with the introduction of a fleet of Spoutvac nondestructive digging (NDD) machines. Around the same time, the company also acquired down-the-hole hammers for vertical rock drilling, which led to the securing of major civil works within the electrical network, including the installation of 66,000 volt oil-filled cables. XPower has grown into one of Victoria’s leading specialist contractors, employing approximately 40 field personnel, supported by a dedicated management team including General Manager Daniel O’Connor, Project Manager Ben McCubbin, Fleet Manager Eden Cram and Systems Manager Bronwyn O’Sullivan. Across the many niche segments and methodologies that comprise the trenchless universe, one thing remains broadly consistent: demand for underground infrastructure delivery continues to grow in Australia. For XPower, continuing to invest in the company’s no-dig capabilities has been a natural evolution of the business. The company had been subcontracting out HDD work prior to investing in the technology to self-perform those packages of work.

The swivel cabin has been upgraded maximising ergonomics and comfort.

“Once a contractor is repetitively used for something specific that we don’t do ourselves, we can see there’s enough work there to facilitate us purchasing something like an HDD drill,” said Miriklis. “We like to bring everything inhouse.” In the late ‘90s, when Harry and Stan first started delivering pit-to-pole dual operations, they invested in a TRACTO GRUNDOMAT, a displacement borer that punches through the ground, ideal for this form of construction. Their exposure to this trenchless system was the company’s first point of entry into the industry for specialty equipment ahead of the NDD machines a decade later. In many ways, XPower has come full circle. Its earlier investment in the GRUNDOMAT marked its entry into specialty trenchless equipment, while the 20ACS represents a significant step forward in the company’s capabilities. Miriklis said the comparable size of the two machines illustrates how far the company’s trenchless capabilities have come. “The GRUNDOMAT is where we’ve come from and the GRUNDODRILL is where we’re heading,” he said. “We’ve come a long way since we got that first piece of trenchless equipment and this new drill illustrates a commitment to continuing to develop and invest in that side of our business.” XPower already had existing HDD systems – a pit launch direction drill acquired in 2005 and a smaller drill purchased in 2025 – when Miriklis started exploring the 20ACS.

His objective was to add a more powerful drill that was suited to Melbourne’s geology, specifically the hard rock found under the city. The decision wasn’t made lightly. Investments in specialty high-tech equipment are hardly frivolous, but the whole family was supportive of the strategy. “At that stage we weren’t winning any work and that’s why it was such a risk for us to suggest ‘we go all in,” he recalled. “That’s partly why the choice involved putting everything on the line.” For Miriklis, the prospect of acquiring the machine had been front of mind for some time. Manifestation, the concept of visualising the outcome you desire, is important to him. He had even purchased the personalised numberplate ROKGOD, which had adorned his work desk for the better part of two years, as something of a place setter. “I looked at that number plate every day walking into my office,” said Miriklis. “That was the reminder to me of where we wanted to get to as a team.” That destination came closer in June with the purchase of the TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 20ACS HDD rig. Once the contract for the drill with TRACTO had been signed, XPower commenced tendering for these more challenging projects and before the machine was even delivered, the company had four major jobs lined up. The acquisition also aligned with the type of work XPower is increasingly undertaking. In the depths of Melbourne’s winter, the team has OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 21

Stand E12

The 20ACS at work installing communication cables in Footscray.

been bouncing between projects in Kilmore, Point Cook and Footscray, where the company is installing high voltage and fibreoptic cables for communications between substations powering a data centre. Down-the-hole hammers and cranes are erecting poles for the electrical supply of 66,000 volts coming in, while the 20ACS is installing communication cables for that supply. Steady work for projects, primarily in the power sector, has since surged, with much of it linked back to the growth of data centres. XPower regularly works in some of Victoria’s most challenging ground conditions, including hard basalt, bluestone and mixed geological formations where conventional HDD equipment can be pushed to its limits. The 20ACS delivers a drilling platform capable of maintaining performance across a wide range of conditions while providing the flexibility to tackle increasingly complex underground infrastructure projects. These complex installations are where the GRUNDODRILL 20ACS comes to the fore, combining the versatility of rock and jet drilling modes with even greater performance, safety and operator comfort. Improvements in serviceability, automation and digital integration allow operators more flexibility on site. Increased thrust and pulling force, a refined rod system, and high torque enable the 20ACS to handle complex bores up to 200m with confidence and efficiency. The machine delivers 200kN of thrust and pulling force, along with a torque output of 9000Nm on the outer rods and 2500Nm on the inner rods. It features a powerful 400l/min bentonite pump and a 123kW diesel engine with stepless torque adjustment, allowing high-performance 22 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

drilling across a range of profiles. The fully automatic system covers drilling, rod changing and lubrication in rock mode, reducing operational time and simplifying handling. The rig is also convertible for cableguided bores using ELICON rods, ideal for challenging conditions and deep installations. Its rod capacity has been increased from the previous generation, carrying up to 144m of ELICON DL101 twin-tube rods on board. Operators can easily select from multiple rod types via the operating menu and switch between them without needing a service technician, while jet drilling with the inner rods remains seamless. Safety and operator comfort have also been enhanced. The undercarriage offers a secure setup in difficult terrain, while optional features such as two support plates and an anchor drilling rig with improved auger profiles ensure maximum stability during demanding operations. A steep inclination angle allows minimal setback in confined areas, and an automatic lubrication system further supports reliable performance. When asked what he likes about the new rig, Miriklis retorted, “what’s not to like?” Featuring TRACTO’s latest advanced drilling technology, the 20ACS can be driven and operated via radio remote control, and the swivel cabin has been upgraded maximising ergonomics and comfort on site. Drilling data is easily recorded using the BORE DATA app and can be retrieved via cloud or USB connection. Additionally, the rig integrates freely with the COMMANDER fleet management app, allowing real-time tracking of rig location, performance and consumption. Miriklis enjoys how easily the machine can switch between standard jet drilling and heavy-

duty rock drilling modes. “The rod times in rock are just phenomenal. Even when reaming we’re going straight to the 350mm reamer in rock,” said Miriklis. “That’s a PDC reamer. It’s just unbelievable. You go from a pilot bore of 165mm straight up to 350mm and it does it with ease. Since acquiring the machine, Miriklis has come to notice the readiness of TRACTO Australia to share intelligence and provide support. The supplier recently appointed James Vos to a new role of Aftersales Manager to act as a conduit between contractors and the factory back in Germany, including training, servicing and support. “We can direct questions to James from real-world situations,” said Miriklis. “It might be a particular hole we’re drilling and he tells us the type of mud mix we might need to suit our ground type, or the type of cutting bits we are going to need. Even a reminder of the different settings to use in different ground conditions. Nothing is ever too hard for James.” For a business that has continually evolved alongside the requirements of Victoria’s electrical infrastructure, the new machine represents the latest stage of XPower’s journey. As underground infrastructure requirements continue to grow, particularly around data centres and energy infrastructure, the GRUNDODRILL 20ACS gives XPower another tool to meet what comes next. “We’re always looking at where the industry is heading and what we need to do to keep evolving with it,” said Miriklis. “This machine is another step forward for us and I think it puts us in a good position for what’s ahead.” For more information, visit tracto.com/au

Stand E06

Edge Underground founder and OptionX Group CEO Stuart Harrison with the Australiandesigned AdaptX Maxi.

A bigger edge Edge Underground is adding two AdaptX Maxi machines to its fleet, dramatically expanding the scale of trenchless projects it can deliver while OptionX Group advances plans to take the technology worldwide.

s the global trenchless community prepares to gather in Auckland for International No-Dig 2026, Australian contractor Edge Underground is entering a significant new phase of growth. The specialist microtunnelling contractor is bringing two new AdaptX Maxi machines online, giving its crews the capacity to take on largerdiameter installations, longer drives and more 24 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

demanding hard-rock projects across Australia. Designed in Queensland, Australia by OptionX Manufacturing, the AdaptX Maxi represents a substantial increase in capability. The system is designed for bore diameters ranging from approximately 450mm to 3000mm and recommended drive lengths of up to 250 metres. With maximum reaming torque of

approximately 108,466Nm, maximum thrust and pullback of 100 tonnes and a 410kW engine, the Maxi has been developed for projects that require power, precision and high production in difficult conditions. The arrival of the two Maxi systems come with high expectations. In what has been a long-running effort to expand what contractors can realistically achieve using trenchless

Edge Underground’s impressive capacity is set to grow, enabling the team to take on larger, longer and more technically challenging bores across Australia.

methods Edge Underground Founder and OptionX Group Chief Executive Officer Stuart Harrison said the machines represent a major step forward. “The two AdaptX Maxi machines will open an entirely new category of work for Edge Underground,” said Harrison. “We will be able to deliver larger infrastructure, complete longer drives and work efficiently through hard rock while retaining the accuracy and control required for critical-grade pipelines.” The investment builds on Edge Underground’s delivery of increasingly complex projects around Australia using AdaptX technology. In Tasmania, the company completed a time-critical project for TasWater involving the

installation of 1099mm outside-diameter glass reinforced plastic jacking pipe. The project required an approximately 1130 mm bore through conditions ranging from sandy clay to dense sandstone with compressive strengths of up to 60MPa. Despite the difficult geology and a constrained worksite beside a busy motorway, Edge Underground’s vacuum microtunnelling system helped the team complete the bores ahead of schedule. In northern Adelaide, Edge Underground was engaged on a major wastewater infrastructure program being delivered by Fulton Hogan. The contractor was initially awarded approximately half of the microtunnelling package before being asked to complete additional bores where other systems had encountered challenges. The project demonstrated not only the production capabilities of the technology, but also its precision. Edge Underground delivered sections at an ultra-flat grade of 0.13 per cent while maintaining consistent production.

According to members of the Fulton Hogan project team, Edge Underground completed comparable sections in approximately six days, while another system required around 10 to 11 days. These projects reflect the combination behind Edge Underground’s growth: practical site knowledge, specialist crews and direct access to the people designing and manufacturing its equipment. When a project presents an unexpected condition or an unusual technical requirement, the contractor can work directly with sister company, OptionX Manufacturing, to design, manufacture and deploy a solution. That connection between the workshop and the worksite allows lessons from Australian projects to be incorporated into the continuing development of AdaptX technology. Power with precision The AdaptX Maxi retains the principles that underpin Edge Underground’s existing vacuum microtunnelling operations. Vacuum extraction OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 25

Stand E06 removes excavated material from the bore as work progresses, helping maintain a clean working face and reduce resistance during installation. It also avoids the extensive slurryhandling infrastructure associated with some conventional microtunnelling systems. The Maxi’s approximately 3700CFM vacuum system can operate at up to approximately 29 inHg. The machine also features eight rotation motors and 10 thrust motors, providing the power required for largediameter and hard-rock installations. While its scale is greater, accuracy remains central to the system. AdaptX technology is designed to achieve installation accuracy of approximately ±5–10 mm, making it suitable for gravity sewer and other grade-critical infrastructure. Internal performance comparisons indicate that the Maxi could deliver almost twice the rock-production efficiency of the AdaptX Mini and nearly four times that of the original AXIS platform, depending on ground conditions, tooling and project configuration. For project owners and principal contractors, that expanded capability provides another option for infrastructure that may previously have required extensive open excavation or a

The AdaptX Maxi gives Edge Underground the power and precision to tackle larger diameters, longer drives and increasingly complex ground conditions.

26 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

larger, more complex tunnelling spread. “If capability was simply about building a more powerful machine than we would go ahead and do that,” said Harrison. “But raw power is of little use in this game without accuracy, adaptability and the knowledge to use it effectively. These machines have been developed from years of experience on real projects, solving real problems.” Australian technology with global ambitions As Edge Underground expands what it can deliver in Australia, OptionX Group is also progressing its international strategy. The company has been inundated with expressions of interest to take the technology into several regions, including the United States, New Zealand, Ireland, Brazil and India. Any partnership arrangement would provide local market knowledge, technical support and a pathway for AdaptX technology to be deployed internationally. The approach recognises that exporting specialist equipment requires more than shipping a machine. Successful trenchless delivery depends on training, tooling, responsive technical support and an

understanding of local ground conditions and construction practices. For OptionX Group, the objective is to combine strong regional partners with Australian engineering and the practical expertise developed through Edge Underground’s project work. New Zealand is a particularly natural fit. Its mix of challenging geology, environmentally sensitive locations, growing infrastructure needs and congested urban environments creates strong potential for adaptable trenchless installation methods. With International No-Dig Auckland bringing the global industry together in October, the timing reflects a broader shift for the OptionX businesses: proven Australian technology is moving into larger applications and preparing for a much wider international footprint. For Edge Underground, however, the focus remains firmly on delivery, applying its expanded capability to larger diameters, longer drives and increasingly complex projects across Australia. The edge is getting bigger. For more information, visit optionx.com

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Stand A28

Leaps of faith Controltech Solutions had reached a tipping point where it needed to grow to vie for major projects. It has since done so and vacuum truck supplier, Vacvator, has been one of the chief catalysts.

ased in the Bayside suburb of Seaford in Melbourne, Controltech Solutions is a dynamic civil contractor that specialises in Non-Destructive Digging, Drain Cleaning, CCTV, Service locating and Liquid Waste Management. Established in 2014, the business has diversified into providing a multi-prong approach to the varied segments of the trenchless market including horizontal directional drilling, drain cleaning, CCTV, and underground service locating and nondestructive digging. In 2018 the business purchased its first vacuum excavation unit from Vacvator for whom it is now a repeat customer. Controltech Solutions has acquired seven further trucks since then. At the time the business was actively pushing to test the waters on its involvement in much larger projects across road and rail. Government projects, in short. Managing Director Brenton Davey had sat in several meetings for tenders and it became clear to him that his company would need to invest in larger capacity vehicles to extract more volume than what they had been able to previously with two smaller units they were running. “Knowing that we would need larger capacity trucks to secure the work we were after is what triggered me to take the plunge and get something much bigger,” he told Trenchless Australasia. “So, we immediately went looking

for a large capacity straight digging truck.” Meanwhile, a unit with a capacity around 8,000L offered at the time by Vacvator had suddenly become available. As other companies were offering much longer lead times to turnaround their vacuum truck builds, Davey jumped at the newly arrived opportunity. Controltech Solutions have, since that inaugural purchase, averaged a new unit from Vacvator every year. The latest procurements from Vacvator, two identical units to be precise, were delivered on a three-axle Hino 500-Series platform. “Vacvator has made minor improvements to the trucks going back to when I bought our first truck, but one thing I really like that remains the same is the great usability,” he said. “That hasn’t changed. They’re very user-friendly and simple to maintain.” Armed with a large spoil tank and a 2450cfm blower, the Vacvator TMC76-45B spec is uniform across the Controltech Solutions fleet. This is because the expectations for trucks, and justifiably so, is that they can be deployed interchangeably on a variety of projects, at any time, across Victoria. The first truck, as often is the case, was something of a leap of faith. Having ongoing work for any mobile asset is never guaranteed when starting out. Davey was already at the point that he was aware of jobs the trucks

could be used for without knowing how long that might be for. “But I had to make the call whether I bought it and worked it out from there rather than the other way around,” he recalled. “Because you tell people, ‘I’m going to get this piece of equipment. What do you think?’ And their response is always, ‘Well, get it and I’ll let you know when I need it’. And so, the call was made. If it’s there then it’s ready to go. So that’s what we did.” The shift in mindset was telling. Gaps in the workflow were negligible. The truck stayed much busier than even Davey had anticipated. The second large volume truck soon followed. “When that first one worked out, we went again,” he said. “Which was great, obviously.” Davey is an electrician by trade. He entered the trenchless industry by way of being a field supervisor for a wide array of civil contractors and cable haulers working under NBN Co. Once he went out on his own doing NBN installations, pit to house at first, which soon expanded into network hauling in residential areas. New conduits. New pits. New cable hauls. That work gradually eventuated into node installations which are the green boxes now commonplace in the street. “Then the requirement to do NDD became more and more common with rules around identifying underground services and

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 29

Stand A28 The latest Controltech Solutions unit is equipped with a 2450cfm blower.

excavating under the drip line of trees, so we were hiring contractors in almost daily,” said Davey. “I was relying on third-party contractors, and I was getting let down a lot of the time. That’s when I went and bought my own truck, which gave me more control over when the truck would arrive and what it did for the day, rather than relying on someone else.” The Vacvator partnership runs very much in parallel to the expansion of Controltech Solutions. What has helped strengthen it, according to Davey, is an understanding that has matured over several years. Vacvator’s service department team works closely with Controltech’s mechanics. They have two fulltime technicians in their workshop. This has helped to make the dealings between the two companies almost seamless. “We can get parts overnight and there’s always access when we need to talk to people on the phone and fault find,” said Davey. “It’s what you call an excellent service.” With all its clients, and Controltech Solutions is no exception, Vacvator upholds a one-hour policy in regard to communicating with customers. If someone calls the workshop about an issue with their truck, the Vacvator team have a response time of an hour to get back to them with a solution or a fix. Vacvator can also diagnose remotely via a dial-up CAN bus network fitted to each unit to get operators and businesses up and running quickly. In something of a coup, Vacvator secured what became the last 25 Hino 500-Series units in the country following the OEM’s decision to replace it with the Hino 700. The Hino 500-Series, according to Vacvator General Manager Con Alvanos is a proven, reliable unit. “We like that platform and it does a few 30 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Vacvator boasts a 7-tonne legal payload.

things for us,” he said. “We integrate well with the cab chassis to drive that particular unit, and we get a really good payload.” To date, Vacvator gets 7-tonne legal payload on these TMC76-45B units which is an exceptional weight ratio for a medium-duty truck operating in an NDD application. Because there is no shortage of service centres for Hino trucks around the country, this enables Vacvator to sell into most regions given there is support for it likely close by. “Look, the performance of the Vacvator’s when it comes to a digging truck or a hydro excavation truck, and when you factor in the price point — they’re kind of unmatched with anything else in the market,” said Davey. “Because they’re so user friendly, I can train someone to use the truck in ten minutes and send them out the door if they know what they’re doing.” Davey said there were some brands in the segment that he considered over-engineered for

no clear reason. “The Vacvator guys make it work and make it work well,” he said. “And the performance. You can put it up against anything in the market, and they’ll hold their own.” Overall liquid waste management has been a focus for Controltech Solutions over the last five years. On-site liquid storage bins are helping improve productivity for its clients according to Davey. “That means we can dispose of the waste on site, and then a separate semi can come and take the waste from there,” he said. “That’s been a big change in the business and an extra offering that’s proven popular with clients and helped with our growth and also provided some cost savings for our clients. We’ve also expanded our underground service locating, CCTV, and concrete cutting and coring divisions.” For more information, visit vacvator.com.au

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Trenchless solutions for the infrastructure we rely on.

Stand H08 A liner is lifted into place through a manhole.

Entering the next stage The role of trenchless rehabilitation is fast evolving and Nuflow is one company extending the life beneath our feet.

cross Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region, asset owners are facing a challenge that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: much of the infrastructure beneath our cities and communities is ageing, while the demands placed upon it continue to grow. Water, sewer, stormwater and industrial pipe networks are expected to operate reliably for decades, often well beyond the conditions they were originally designed to face. Population growth, urban development, increasing traffic loads, changing environmental conditions and evolving operational requirements are all placing additional pressure on existing infrastructure. At the same time, councils, water authorities, facility managers and other asset owners are being challenged to achieve more from existing budgets while minimising disruption to the communities and businesses they serve. Traditionally, the response to a deteriorated pipeline was relatively straightforward: excavate it and replace it. In some circumstances, replacement will always be the correct solution. But it is no longer automatically considered the preferred option. 32 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Trenchless rehabilitation has changed the conversation. The industry now has access to a far broader range of technologies capable of restoring, strengthening, sealing and extending the service life of existing pipelines without the scale of excavation traditionally associated with renewal. Cured-in-place pipe systems, composite pull-in-place liners, UV-cured technologies, structural pressure pipe rehabilitation, spray and brush-applied coatings, localised repairs and specialised solutions for chambers, junctions and complex geometries all have a role to play. The real advancement, however, is not simply that more products are available. It is the growing ability of the trenchless industry to assess an asset and select a rehabilitation technology based on what that particular pipeline needs to achieve. There is no universal liner, coating or rehabilitation method suitable for every pipe. A gravity sewer experiencing infiltration has very different requirements to a pressurised water main. A deteriorated cast iron pipeline within an industrial facility presents different challenges to a large-diameter stormwater asset beneath a roadway.

Diameter, geometry, bends, access, host pipe condition, groundwater, internal pressure, temperature, chemical exposure, structural loading and required design life can all influence the rehabilitation strategy. The right question is therefore becoming less about, ‘What product can we install?’ and more about, ‘What does this asset need to do for the next stage of its life?’ That change in thinking is important. Better inspection technology, engineering, materials, installation equipment and curing methods are allowing rehabilitation systems to be deployed in environments that would previously have been considered too difficult, too specialised or unsuitable for trenchless renewal. Looking beyond the cost of the pipe The benefits also extend well beyond the pipeline itself. The true cost of traditional replacement can include excavation, road closures, traffic management, service interruption, spoil removal, environmental controls, reinstatement and disruption to residents, businesses and surrounding infrastructure. In dense urban environments, major facilities or difficult-access locations, these indirect

asset. They require appropriate preparation, installation methodology, quality control and trained technicians capable of delivering the system consistently in the field. Just as importantly, they require the willingness to recognise when another technology is better suited to the project.

Images: Nuflow

Successful projects require appropriate preparation, installation methodology, quality control.

impacts can represent a substantial component of the overall project. Where the existing asset can be rehabilitated effectively, extending its service life can preserve much of the value already embedded within that infrastructure while significantly reducing the impact of renewal works. This is one of the reasons trenchless rehabilitations will continue to play an increasingly important role in infrastructure asset management. Building capability around the asset This changing environment has shaped both the technologies Nuflow Australasia provides and the way its network has developed. Nuflow manufactures and develops its own pipe rehabilitation systems while also working with specialist technology manufacturers from around the world. This dynamic provides access to a broad range of materials, curing technologies, installation methods and rehabilitation systems across gravity, pressure, structural and non-structural applications. Importantly, this means the solution can be selected around the requirements of the asset rather than attempting to make every project fit a single technology. A small-diameter pipe within a building may require a completely different approach to a large municipal sewer, an industrial process line or a pressure pipeline. Having multiple rehabilitation technologies available gives contractors, engineers and asset owners more flexibility when determining the most appropriate outcome.

Technology alone, however, is only part of the equation. Nuflow Australasia has established a network of franchise partners throughout Australia, New Zealand and parts of Asia, providing a regional reach that is difficult to replicate. That network combines the capability and local knowledge of contractors operating within their own communities with the technical support, training, engineering, manufacturing capability and technology partnerships of a larger organisation. For councils, water authorities, consultants and other asset owners, that combination is important. A rehabilitation system is only as good as its assessment, design and installation. Successful projects require an understanding of the host pipe, operating environment and required performance of the rehabilitated

An industry continuing to evolve This is why gatherings such as the ISTT International No-Dig exhibition in Auckland are so valuable. Bringing contractors, manufacturers, engineers, utilities, asset owners and technology developers together provides an opportunity to see how trenchless rehabilitation is progressing internationally and how those developments can be applied to the infrastructure challenges facing our region. The conversation should extend beyond individual products. The bigger opportunity is to rethink how infrastructure renewal decisions are made. Across Australia, New Zealand and Asia, the underground networks represent an enormous amount of embedded value. In many cases, the host pipe does not necessarily need to be removed to restore performance or achieve a significant extension of service life. The challenge is understanding the condition of the asset, defining what the rehabilitated pipeline needs to achieve and selecting a technology capable of delivering that outcome. The future of pipeline renewal will require smarter decisions especially when it comes to the infrastructure already in place. It’s not feasible to simply replace the old with the new. As materials, engineering and installation technologies continue to evolve, the range of pipelines capable of being successfully rehabilitated will continue to expand. For the owners of ageing infrastructure, that creates a significant opportunity: extend service life, reduce disruption, make better use of capital and preserve critical assets for the communities that rely on them. The pipes may be out of sight, but the way they are managed shouldn’t be. For more information, visit nuflow.net A Nuflow crew relines an overland pipeline.

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 33

Stand 121

Strong foundations A disciplined approach from senior leadership has helped establish KOR Equipment Solutions as a market leader in the industrial sector for quality products and services.

KOR shareholders have long understood the challenges and operational pressures that its customers encounter. In short, this is what guides the business direction — addressing customer pain points such as equipment uptime, safety, compliance, cost control and productivity. These issues must be solved practically. The finance offering particularly around leasing and lease-to-buy units has proven compelling. Birrell, for his part, was instrumental in making a robust business case around these products. “He’s been the voice of reason at Board level to really accelerate that growth and our customers are enjoying the fact that they have various options in how they can acquire these assets,” said Managing Director Jason Wall. Anticipating the purchasing habits of its customers is key to this. Sensible, intelligent estimates must cohere. KOR has increased

the speed with which it moves to market as a result. “Going to Cappellotto and negotiating volume build slots knowing they can streamline their manufacturing, which is to say they can build the units on order, helps us to be more effective,” said Birrell. “If you work through the financial parameters of capital equipment it’s all about utilisation and the key to utilisation is reliability and being able to utilise that capital equipment effectively, efficiently, safely,” said Pewtress. “I would like to think that the services that KOR provides enables our customers to maintain utilisation. It gives them an ROI. That’s the key. As we employ them and promote people, we really need to make sure that those people understand that this is front of mind, because that is the key to being successful as an upstream strategic supplier. Images: KOR

n established specialty business with a trans-Tasman footprint, KOR Equipment Solutions is driven by a shared vision focused on achieving strong growth with key distribution OEM partners. Under the steady influence of owners Marcus Birrell and Steve Pewtress, the Australian company enjoys a fortified market leading position underpinned by the professional maturity of its supply chain. This capability has been further bolstered by Birrell’s financial acumen and experience in the automotive sector. He joined the business in 2016. “There’s a fusion between Marcus and I,” noted Pewtress whose operational background complements the automotive fiscal aptitude Birrell brings to the organisation. “We’re working well together to provide a leading service and product that is making a big difference.”

Marcus Birrell and Steve Pewtress with Alberto Cappellotto and Edoardo Cappellotto receiving the International Dealer of the Year award in Villafranca, Italy.

34 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

National Operation and Engineering Centre in Dandenong.

Understanding who we are and what we are that’s our job. Because if our customers are successful, we will be.” Selling a first-rate product naturally helps. KOR stands behind the operational efficiencies of the Cappellotto trucks whether it be reduced fuel burn figures, maximum performance output or optimised water recycling capabilities. Everything must stack up from an operational perspective. Further to this, the truck quality predicates a very strong resale value which further enhances KOR’s overall value proposition. For Pewtress, the Cappellotto ecosystem is, in a word, outstanding. “It is far and away the best drain cleaning, sewer cleaning and hydro excavation units in the world,” he said. “The way it’s been developed over time has come about through incredible visionaries and engineering capability.” Then following a sustained period of growth, KOR were seeking an opportunity to expand its specialist equipment offering. That ambition led the company to Schwarze Industries, the US-based manufacturer recognised globally for its market-leading industrial street sweeping equipment. Like its relationship with Cappellotto, KOR works closely with Schwarze to ensure its sweepers remain at the forefront of efficiency, productivity and reliability, while meeting the evolving needs of customers across municipal, industrial and specialist applications. It stands to reason that if a product is operated and maintained correctly it will considerably extend its end-of-life. Selling a first-rate product is only part of the equation.

Supporting the product with training and elite aftersales is equally crucial. That means providing unrivalled support throughout the entire equipment life cycle. Successive investments in network infrastructure such as KOR’s commitment to service centres in every state in Australia and on the north and south islands of New Zealand, have set in motion major support to the customer ecosystem. At KOR, aligning closely with Cappellotto to develop the product so that the specification meets the application of work for the customer is critical. Pewtress acknowledged the ongoing investment, which is significant, the business has made in engineering talent. It’s been vital for many reasons including answering, for instance, questions of energy conservation and realising the maximum productivity out of the equipment. “Subsequently that intelligence and those learnings we’ve been able to bring that back into the marketplace and communicate with operators,” he said. “I’d like to think as an upstream strategic supplier we’ve got to understand all those pressure points. We need to understand what our customers’ challenges are and their risks as a supplier in order to mitigate those. So, it’s not just about productivity and profit, it’s about risk mitigation and the capability of these trucks and what they can do.” KOR Connect, the telemetric solution KOR offers its customers, is another recent development within the business with vast potential to deepen these existing partnerships. Fleet maintenance and after sales support is the major driver of this product. According to Wall it fits with a suite of

services KOR provides customers to help facilitate appropriate forward planning not only for their current needs, but what they are going to be in the longer term. “We are developing sophisticated fleet management plans for them. We know the age of the trucks and fleet size’,” Wall said. “If your revenue growth is going to continue positively and you have an ageing fleet of trucks, we’ve got a comprehensive fleet replacement plan. We can explain how it looks operationally and financially for the business.” Most customers are open to these discussions because it invariably provides a very good lens on their business. It’s also integral to maintaining the fleet utilisation especially for those contractors running multiple units. This October KOR will mark its 1,000th Cappellotto truck sale, and the 100th sale of a Schwarze street sweeper, and culminate these milestones with a gala event celebrating its 15th year in business. The milestone reflects how KOR has positioned itself well, in accord with its original mandate, to provide solutions in the essential services sector. With the national infrastructure spend showing no signs of slowing, KOR has plans in place to expand its footprint with additional employees and facilities currently in the works for regional Queensland and West Melbourne. The foundations, as Pewtress suggests, are strong. “If you come back to drain cleaning, sewer cleaning, pit cleaning, infrastructure builds and road maintenance that’s really fundamentally what our products support and do,” said Pewtress. For more information, visit kor.com.au OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 35

SANIPRO x STREICHER

German-engineered electric robotic cutting technology, backed by Australasian support SANIPRO and Streicher’s exclusive Australian and New Zealand partnership brings together more than 30 years of trenchless rehabilitation experience.

Striecher’s CLE range is the benchmark for a trenchless electric cutting system, combining interchangeable CL70 and CL40 cutting heads for DN55-DN300 pipelines. CL70 delivers 1 kW power for DN80-DN300, while CL40 provides compact 0.5 kW performance for DN55-DN120. With water-cooled variable speed motors, 600°+ rotation, camera cleaning, internal pressurisation and battery operation, CLE is built for precise, mobile cutting. Local support for the entire range of Streicher CLE products is provided by SANIPRO.

SANIPRO Australia & New Zealand E. info@saniproAU.com P. +61 482 918 061 LEARN MORE. saniproaustralia.com

Stand D30 Channeline excels on a large diameter renewal.

The right stuff The economics of undertaking trenchless rehabilitation more than justify themselves when evaluating whole of lifecycle costs.

hen comparing rehabilitation options for buried infrastructure, it is tempting to start with the price of the product. But product cost is only one part of the equation. The real question is: what will the entire intervention cost, and what will it allow the project to avoid for decades to come? Lifecycle cost looks beyond the initial product costs to consider the total cost of an asset over its service life, including installation, operation, maintenance, repairs, disruption and eventual replacement. For buried infrastructure, this can make a significant difference to how different rehabilitation approaches compare. A lining system that costs less per metre may appear attractive on paper. But if installing it requires excavation, road closures, extensive access works, traffic management, disposal of excavated material and reinstatement, the economics can change quickly. A custom-designed solution, meanwhile, can help control the overall project cost by reducing the need for these additional works. If it can be installed trenchlessly, minimise disruption and extend the life of the existing asset, its value needs to be considered in the

context of the whole project, not simply the cost of the liner itself. In other words, product cost and lifecycle cost are not the same thing. The cost of making something fit Buried infrastructure is rarely standard. Large-diameter conduits, tunnels, culverts, chambers and other structures can have unusual geometries, changing dimensions and restricted access. The challenge is not always finding a product that is technically suitable. Sometimes it is finding one that can physically and practically get into the structure in the first place. That is where the economics of fit become important. A standard lining system may have a lower initial product cost, but if the structure has to be altered to accommodate it, or if significant preparation is required before installation, those savings can quickly disappear. A custom-designed solution takes a different approach: rather than making the infrastructure fit the product, the product is designed to fit the infrastructure. A precise physical fit is only the starting point. A rehabilitation solution also needs to

fit the structural requirements of the asset, the hydraulic requirements of the system and the practical constraints of the installation. This is where Channeline offers a different proposition. Channeline specialises in GRP liners that are custom designed and manufactured for a precise fit, allowing unusual shapes, dimensions and structural requirements to be addressed as part of the design rather than forcing a standardised system into an unsuitable geometry. This approach can also create opportunities to improve hydraulic performance. Rather than simply accepting the existing internal profile, the finished liner can be designed to optimise the available internal space and flow characteristics, an important consideration where maintaining or increasing hydraulic capacity is part of the rehabilitation objective. By designing the liner around the asset, the aim is not simply to produce a bespoke product, but to find the most practical and cost-effective way to rehabilitate the structure. If rehabilitation can improve the performance of the asset as well as extend its service life, its value can be considerably greater. OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 37

Stand D30 Installation is part of the equation The physical installation environment can be just as important as the liner itself. Some structures have restricted access that makes it impractical to install a large lining system as a single piece. This is where a bespoke approach can provide greater flexibility. Channeline liners can be manufactured in multiple segments, allowing components to be transported, handled and assembled within the structure. For very large diameters, this can provide a significant logistical advantage, helping to reduce transportation and handling costs compared with moving a complete large-diameter liner to site. It can also make rehabilitation possible where access constraints would otherwise become a barrier. Installation conditions can be equally challenging. Channeline liners can be engineered for installation under liveflow conditions, opening up options for rehabilitation while the existing infrastructure remains operational. “The value is not simply in the custom liner it is in what the custom design makes possible,” Nick Walters, Director of Channeline, told Trenchless Australasia. Looking beyond the installation price A rehabilitation project is an investment in an asset that may need to remain operational for decades. The most economical solution therefore needs to be considered not just in terms of its initial purchase price, but in its lifecycle cost. How long will it extend the asset’s service life? Can it maintain or improve hydraulic performance? How much excavation can be avoided? How much disruption can be reduced? Can difficult access conditions be accommodated? Can installation take place without taking the asset completely out of service? What is the environmental cost of installation? And can the solution be manufactured and transported in a way that makes even very large structures practical to rehabilitate? These are project-level questions, rather than product-level questions. For Channeline, whole-life performance is an important part of that equation. Their fully structural GRP liners are designed to provide a service life of 150 years, helping extend the useful life of existing infrastructure for generations, and the liners’ self-cleaning characteristics can also minimise the need for ongoing maintenance once installed. The value of designing for the job When considering lining solutions, the question should not be, ‘What does the liner cost?’ It should be, ‘What value can this solution deliver over the life of the asset?’ A whole-life view takes into account far more than the initial installation. Avoided 38 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Live flow installation of GRP.

Channeline’s multi-segmental liners allow for nested transportation.

excavation and disruption, improved hydraulic performance, installation flexibility, extended service life and reduced maintenance can all contribute to the overall value of a rehabilitation solution. For infrastructure owners, this means looking beyond the immediate project and considering the lifecycle cost of keeping the asset operational. A liner that is precisely designed for the structure

can deliver value not just at installation, but throughout its service life. Getting the fit right is about more than fitting a liner to a structure. It is about finding a solution that delivers value throughout the life of the asset. For more information, visit www.channeline.com

Stand E11

River runs through it Recore Pipe Relining Specialists have delivered a challenging 20-metre relining project beneath Maraetai Power Station.

Recore Pipe Relining Specialists crew working with the UV XAIR system during the Maraetai Power Station rehabilitation.

40 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

the Waikato River, with a generating capacity of 360MW. For the Recore Pipe Relining Specialists crew, working within such a significant piece of infrastructure brought challenges well beyond those encountered on a conventional relining project. The scope involved rehabilitating a 20-metre section of DN250 overflow drainage

Images: Pipe Core

orking deep below Maraetai Power Station on New Zealand’s Waikato River, Recore Pipe Relining Specialists has successfully completed a complex rehabilitation of a DN250 overflow drainage line under demanding access, security and operational conditions. Maraetai is the largest hydroelectric power station on

line associated with one of Maraetai II’s penstocks, which are approximately 100 metres long and 4.6 metres in diameter, running through to the drainage gallery beneath the power station. The work area was located several storeys below ground and below the surrounding water level, meaning every element of the project – from personnel movements to equipment selection and installation methodology – had to be carefully considered. Access was one of the first major challenges. Strict site-security requirements added another layer of complexity. Crew members passed through multiple controlled checkpoints, presenting identification and using access fobs as they progressed through the facility. Emergency procedures were equally stringent, reflecting the unique environment in which the crew was operating. All equipment had to be lowered from ground level into the drainage gallery using one of the power station’s original gantry cranes. Equipment was transferred through openings approximately 1.5 metres wide and lowered four storeys into the work area. This immediately ruled out larger and less manoeuvrable equipment. Recore Pipe Relining Specialists selected a Picote Aqua Maxi Miller for cleaning, together with a UV XAIR curing system and inversion drum, UV liner and resin from UV Relining, all supplied by Pipe Core. The compact footprint of the equipment proved particularly valuable in navigating the restricted access. Once inside the gallery, the crew was operating in an environment surrounded by reminders of the infrastructure above and around them. Warning signage throughout the facility identified the tailwater level, with the crew operating several floors below this level. Making every hour count The works required the relevant flow to be stopped, placing additional importance on completing the rehabilitation efficiently and minimising the time the infrastructure remained offline. Recore Pipe Relining Specialists responded by dividing the crew and carrying out key stages of the project simultaneously. While one group worked within the power station cleaning and preparing the host pipe, another prepared the UV liner offsite at the Recore Pipe Relining Specialists facility. “The liner was prepared under controlled conditions

Maraetai Power Station on the Waikato River.

before being transported to site ready for installation. As curing is activated by UV light, the impregnated liner could be prepared in advance and handled safely, provided it remained protected from UV exposure.” This allowed both stages of the project to progress simultaneously, helping the crew maximise the available outage window. Cleaning of the deteriorated pipe was completed in half a day using the Picote Aqua Maxi Miller, a high-speed multi-use machine for water main cleaning and milling. The pipe was severely deteriorated in sections, requiring the crew to remove fittings around a 90-degree bend to clear accumulated debris before conducting a CCTV inspection and completing final preparation for lining. Once onsite, the liner was loaded into the UV Relining inversion drum ready for installation. Final measurements could then be entered into the UV XAIR system immediately before curing, with the installation monitored and logged through the system’s smart installation surveillance technology.

The compact UV XAIR system was well suited to the project’s space constraints.

Technology suited to the site With space at a premium, equipment selection played an important role in the success of the installation. OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 41

Stand E11 Cleaning of the deteriorated pipe was completed in half a day.

The UV XAIR was positioned within the drainage gallery itself, allowing the crew to establish the curing operation close to the pipe while working within the tight physical constraints of the facility. Pipe Core also provided onsite technical support during the project, working alongside the Recore Pipe Relining Specialists crew through the installation and curing process. The project involved four Recore Pipe Relining Specialists crew members and two Pipe Core personnel onsite, bringing together the contractor’s relining capability with specialist product and equipment knowledge for what was an unusual and technically demanding application. All personnel entering the work area were required to hold appropriate confined-space qualifications, while the crew also operated under the power station’s stringent access and safety requirements. Despite the difficult environment, restricted access and the need to minimise downtime, the rehabilitation was successfully completed. Impressive as the successful relining of the 20-metre section was for Recore Pipe Relining Specialists, the outfit was even 42 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

The manoeuvrability of the Picote Aqua Maxi Miller system proved a major advantage.

more buoyed by its discovery of what can be achieved with trenchless technology when applied to infrastructure in places where conventional replacement would present significant logistical challenges. The successful outcome has also created the potential for further rehabilitation work across additional penstocks at the power station. For Pipe Core, the project reinforced the value of matching equipment to the realities of a site rather than simply to the diameter and length of the pipe. In this case, the manoeuvrability of the Picote Aqua Maxi Miller, combined with the flexibility and compact footprint of the UV XAIR system and UV-cured liner solution, allowed the crew to take trenchless rehabilitation deep beneath one of New Zealand’s most important hydroelectric facilities. For Recore Pipe Relining Specialists, it marks at once a significant milestone and a compelling demonstration of trenchless technology reaching infrastructure that would otherwise be extraordinarily difficult to repair. For more information, visit pipecore.com.au

Applications:

Wastewater

Stormwater

Rail and road culverts

Tomorrow’s choice, today

Tunnels

Seawater cooling networks

Custom

Rehabilitate aging infrastructure with fully-structural GRP liners. With bespoke design, precision engineering and a 150-year design life, Channeline future-proofs infrastructure for generations to come.

Visit channeline.com

Stand D07

Chain reaction Pro Line’s partnership with New Start Australia creates opportunities for contractors and asset owners to achieve social procurement outcomes through their supply chain.

s infrastructure owners and contractors place increasing emphasis on social procurement, businesses across the construction and infrastructure supply chain are looking for practical ways to create measurable social value through everyday procurement decisions. For Pro Line, this has meant looking beyond its traditional role as a trenchless technology supplier and considering how its own supply chain can contribute to broader project outcomes. Through its partnership with New Start Australia, Pro Line has incorporated an Indigenous-owned Australian business into areas of its supply chain, including freight forwarding. This creates an opportunity for project-related expenditure to contribute to social procurement outcomes while continuing to supply market leading solutions. New Start Australia is a Supply Nation Certified, 100 per cent Indigenous-owned

Australian business providing services across construction and the utilities industry. The company focuses on creating employment, training and economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. According to Pro Line Director Jay Sheehan, the partnership demonstrates how social procurement can be incorporated into normal commercial activity. “At Pro Line, we’re passionate about finding opportunities to create value wherever we can. Freight is something we already need as part of delivering our liner systems, so working with New Start allows that ordinary business expenditure to create an additional social and economic benefit,” Sheehan said. The approach also creates an opportunity for Pro Line’s installation partners to include relevant expenditure within their own social procurement outcomes, where project

procurement frameworks allow. “Our installation partners are increasingly being asked to demonstrate the wider value they’re delivering on projects, not just the technical outcome,” Sheehan said. “By building social procurement into our own supply chain, we can help create another pathway for contractors to demonstrate indigenous participation and supplier diversity through expenditure that is already associated with delivering their projects.” New Start Australia CEO Daniel Phillips said genuine commercial relationships were critical to creating meaningful social procurement outcomes. “Social procurement works best when it is part of the way businesses actually operate, rather than something added at the end of a project,” Phillips said. “Pro Line has shown a genuine commitment to creating opportunities and has looked at where it can make a difference

Twin-cell culverts rehabilitated.

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New Start

Sheehan said the focus on long-term value extends to how Pro Line approaches its broader business relationships. “We talk about long-term value when we’re discussing rehabilitation, and we take the same approach to the way we do business,” he said. “If we can deliver a solution designed to perform for 100 years while also creating opportunities through our supply chain, we’re providing value that extends well beyond the installation itself.” As social procurement and supplier diversity requirements continue to grow across

infrastructure projects, partnerships such as Pro Line and New Start demonstrate how the trenchless supply chain can contribute to broader project outcomes. That objective remains simple at Pro Line: continue delivering high-performance rehabilitation solutions while using its supply chain to create additional value for contractors, asset owners and communities For more information on how the Pro Line and New Start Australia partnership can add value visit pro-line.com.au

New Start is a 100 per cent indigenous-owned business.

through its existing supply chain. That creates a sustainable model because the relationship is based on delivering a real commercial service while also creating a social outcome.” For Pro Line, the partnership is another example of how the company is seeking to add value beyond supplying a fully structural UVCIPP liner system. Its liner technology has been independently tested for long-term structural performance and is designed to provide fully structural rehabilitation with a 100-year design service life, helping asset owners renew ageing infrastructure while minimising excavation, disruption and environmental impacts.

The Pro Line and New Start partnership is helping rehabilitate critical infrastructure, like this road culvert, while adding value across the supply chain.

The whole world of HDD Technology We are distributed in Australia by: TRACTO-TECHNIK Australia Pty Ltd 10 Aliciajay Circuit, Yatala QLD 4207 Tel. +61 7 3420 5455 www.TRACTO-TECHNIK.com.au

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 45

Stand I11 Ditch Witch JT10 pictured has proven its versatility since it was purchased a few months back.

When the going gets tough JCL Drilling has achieved success in the horizontal directional drilling segment thanks in part to its partnership with Ditch Witch CEA.

n Mount Maunganui, a major residential, commercial and industrial suburb of Tauranga, New Zealand, on the picturesque Bay of Plenty, can be found many nice stretches of beach and also JCL Drilling, a trenchless aligned outfit building a good standing in the industry. The abbreviation stands for Johnson Contracts Ltd, formed 35 years ago by the eponymous Jack Johnson. JCL Drilling, though like any local business rooted in the province from which it hails – really, like any small enterprise that values its independence – relies heavily on its inhouse knowledge, and its supply partners. Underground construction equipment specialist brand Ditch Witch has proven a long-term standout. The horizontal directional drilling fleet includes Ditch Witch JT10 and JT32 drills, along with the support equipment needed around them including Ditch Witch mud systems, Digitrak locating equipment, excavators and two Hydro-Vacs. Ray Johnson, JCL Drilling General Manager, knew what he was getting before his latest purchase. “The JT10 is a good smaller machine for tight sites and general utility work, while the JT32 gives us the capacity to take on bigger diameter and longer shots,” said Johnson. “For us it’s just a really handy machine. It’s compact, easy to move around and suits a lot of the utility work we do. You can get it into sites where a bigger rig would be a headache, but it

46 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

still has enough ability to get a decent amount of work done.” JCL Drilling has even used the Ditch Witch JT10 to pull pipe up to DN315. The JT32 was considered a sound investment as the business sought greater capacity and reliability. One avenue to growth hinged on tackling longer shots and larger pipe sizes — projects where the JT10 simply wasn’t the right machine. Having intimate knowledge of the JT32 rig, too, makes a big difference when it comes to finding efficiencies while scaling up. “It’s a beast,” added Johnson. “We’ve used the JT32 on jobs involving larger PE pipelines and some long drill shots. One of the bigger challenges with those jobs is that it isn’t just about pulling the pipe in. You’ve got ground conditions, drilling fluid, existing services, bore alignment and making sure the pull-back goes smoothly.” The 155hp Cummins diesel engine provides ample energy to ensure the many working functions on the rig are cohesive at all times and especially when applied over the most challenging terrain. It also boasts around 32,000lbs of thrust and pullback — the kind of surplus torque needed in heavy rock environs. That capacity alone helps with chasing large diameter contracts. In addition to featuring a sleek hood design and ergonomic cabin, the enhanced operator platform of the Ditch Witch JT32 brings it in

tune with other popular Ditch Witch models such as the smaller JT21 and much bigger JT40. There are other major benefits, too. Less downtime on training, for one, as the commonality of operating procedures, smart systems and parts make it easier to transition between the units, an advantage JCL Drilling is already exploiting. Ditch Witch have shrewdly engineered these latest drills with ROI front of mind, mitigating operational incongruities between models, promoting harmonic design elements that contribute to the user-experience which, invariably, promotes uptime for HDD fleets. “The JT32 has performed well for us,” said Johnson. “It gives us a lot more confidence going into the bigger shots because you’ve got that extra power and capacity there when you need it.” JCL Drilling has completed several DN560 and DN630 graded sleeve bores with the Ditch Witch JT32. Johnson noted the machine had performed perfectly. “Some hefty reamers and stabiliser combos were used and the JT32 just got it done,” he said. “Most would say that size pipe is well out of its capacity, but we made it happen.” The versatility of the rigs has been noticeable to JCL operators especially once they have become accustomed to the machines on different projects “You buy a machine with a rough idea of

a difficult drill, though. That part hasn’t really changed.” The first jobs, in contrast to today, might have been smaller scale but proved a good learning curve in hindsight. Solving problems fosters knowledge. “One of the biggest things you learn pretty quickly with directional drilling is that every bore is different,” said Johnson. “You can have a good plan going into it, but ground conditions will normally have something to say about that.” Because HDD is quite a specialised field, developing people internally is necessary for safety protocols, benchmarking procedures and setting expectations. The resultant effect is a far stronger, professional crew. “There’s a lot more involved than simply running the drill,” said Johnson. “Operators need to understand locating, drilling fluids, tooling, ground conditions, services and what’s happening underground. Having experienced guys passing that knowledge on is really important.”

The HDD sector in New Zealand has evolved drastically in a short period of time. Councils, utility companies and contractors now better understand the potential of HDD especially in how it can economise excavation and minimise disruptions. Part of that is influenced by the availability of bigger machines, better locating systems and superior tooling. Even so, experienced people are still needed on the ground said Johnson. “You can have all the technology in the world, but every bore can still throw something different at you,” he said, noting the motivational forces that have helped propel him for so long have changed since he begun. “When you’re younger it’s probably more about getting the work, growing the business and proving you can do it,” he said. “As the business has grown, you start thinking more about building a good team, keeping good people around you and making sure the company has a future beyond the next job.” For more, visit ditchwitchcea.com.au HDD wastewater pipe upgrade installation on the North Island.

Images: JCL Drilling

the sort of work you’re going to use it for, but once the operators get comfortable with it you start realising where else it fits,” said Johnson. “With the JT32 especially, we’ve been able to look at jobs and drill lengths that we probably wouldn’t have considered with our smaller equipment.” Familiarity with the brand is important. Johnson said there is value in sticking with a known entity such as Ditch Witch. “Parts and support are a big consideration as well,” he said. “You don’t want a drill sitting on site while you’re trying to track down parts or someone who knows how to fix it.” He added, “The machines are straightforward for the operators and there’s a lot of common knowledge around them within the HDD industry, which helps as well.” The family business has grown from a lean operation to a leading services provider in the horizontal directional drilling and trenchless civil sector in the upper North Island. It’s important that it maintains a personal touch when dealing with clients and customers. “We’re pretty hands-on and everyone tends to get involved where they’re needed,” said Johnson. “We’ve grown, but we’ve also tried to keep that same practical approach rather than becoming too corporate.” Utility installation remains a core part of the services they offer, particularly water, wastewater and other underground services. Sewer upgrades for local councils are its bread and butter. The notorious ground conditions of the area propose different challenges depending on the project. Mount Maunganui is a 232-metre-high rhyolite lava dome formed approximately 2 to 3 million years ago during the Late Pliocene epoch. Volcanic boulders and large parcels of basalt rock are par for the course. Johnson has been at it for ten years. He applied for a directional drilling job in 2015 and travelled much of the South Island working a JT30 rig, the forerunner to the JT32. “I knew what this size rig was capable of and how much they can take to get the job done,” he said. “For us it’s mainly about reliability and having support there when something does go wrong. And the team at Ditch Witch NZ give us that full support.” A number of projects around the Bay of Plenty and Waikato have helped to solidify JCL Drilling’s reputation. “Some of the jobs we’re probably most proud of aren’t necessarily the biggest ones on paper,” said Johnson. “They’re often the jobs where access is difficult, there are a lot of existing services, ground conditions aren’t ideal or there’s pressure to keep disruption to a minimum.” That’s really where HDD comes into its own according to Johnson. “Being able to get a pipeline through without opening up an entire road or site is pretty satisfying, especially when there’s been a fair bit of planning involved to make it work,” he added. “There’s still satisfaction in finishing

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 47

Stand C23

Security footage When it comes to choosing the right pipe inspection system technology is only one important consideration according to Sewer Equipment Company Australia.

hen it comes to choosing a pipe inspection system, it is easy to start with the camera. Resolution, zoom, pan and tilt range all matter. But those specifications rarely determine whether a system will actually solve the problems contractors and asset managers face in the field. The better place to start is with the job itself. What does the system need to deliver? How will the information be used? And what happens once the crew leaves site? One of the biggest shifts is that inspection is increasingly about more than simply seeing inside a pipe? Councils and utilities may also require laser profiling data, including diameter, ovality and deformation, alongside standard CCTV footage for acceptance or compliance sign-off. So before comparing cameras, it is worth asking does the system need to do more than inspect? If profiling is already appearing in project requirements, or is likely to, choosing a camera that only provides visual inspection can create an unnecessary second step. Another

iPEK ROVION RX140SAT high tech satellite inspection crawler.

48 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

visit, another piece of equipment and more time spent collecting information that could potentially have been captured in one pass. Of course, collecting more data is only useful if that data can be relied upon. This raises another important question: will the data hold up if it is challenged? CCTV footage can show what a pipe looks like, but measurement data can give an asset owner the evidence needed to make and defend an acceptance decision. That distinction becomes particularly important when results are questioned later, or when a client requests measurement data at short notice. Then there is the less glamorous, but equally important, part of the workflow: what happens to all that information after it has been captured? Does the system fit the reporting software already in use? A system can collect excellent field data and still create a headache back in the office. If inspection and profiling information need to be manually reconciled, transferred

between platforms or rebuilt into separate reports, the efficiency gained on site can quickly disappear. Ideally, both inspection and profiling data should flow into the reporting software crews already use and contribute to the same reporting workflow. Technology is only part of the equation. The other is the people operating it. Which makes can your crews run the same way, every time? It’s a question worth asking before you buy. Consistency can matter more than an impressive specification sheet. In profiling work, for example, inconsistent retrieval speed from a manual cable reel can distort the distance data used in the final report. If accurate results depend on one highly experienced operator getting every step exactly right, the system may perform well in a demonstration but struggle when rolled out across multiple crews. Repeatability should be part of the buying decision, not an afterthought. And finally, buyers should be prepared to ask

the question equipment suppliers don’t always like discussing: what are the system’s actual limits? No inspection system performs perfectly in every pipe or every environment. Reflective or dark pipe materials, tight access points and different crawler combinations can all affect what a camera or laser can reliably deliver.

Understanding those limitations before purchasing is far more useful than discovering them on site. In fact, a supplier who is prepared to explain where their equipment does not perform well can often tell you more than one promising a system that does everything. Taken together, these questions point to a

For more information, visit seca.com.au

Images: SECA

WinCan VX data reporting.

broader change in how inspection technology should be evaluated. The conversation is moving away from simply asking which camera has the best specifications and towards understanding how inspection, measurement, reporting and repeatability work together as one workflow. That conversation will be particularly relevant at International No-Dig Auckland this October, where contractors, utilities and equipment suppliers from across Australasia will come together at the New Zealand International Convention Centre on 28–29 October. Combined inspection-andmeasurement technology will be very much part of the discussion. For anyone considering their next inspection system, the starting point should not simply be which camera should we buy? A better question is what information do our clients need, how reliably can we capture it, and how efficiently can we turn it into something they can use? Get that clear first, and the equipment decision becomes a lot easier. If you are weighing up your next inspection system and want to understand where a one-pass profiling workflow would, or would not, make sense for your setup, SECA’s technical team can talk it through against your current crawler, reel and reporting software.

WinCan CCTV pipe inspection software.

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 49

Above. Beyond. Below.

MichelsTrenchless.com.au +61 357 235 473 1-15 Racecourse Rd, Wangaratta, VIC 3677

Michels in Motion: Between March 2023 and February 2025, Michels completed three record-breaking HDDs in New South Wales. The 2,250-metre HDDs included an elevation change of 590 metres.

1959

1987

2022

Michels established as an energy and infrastructure contractor in 1959

Michels completed our first Horizontal Directional Drill in 1987

Michels establishes permanent presence in Australia in 2022

Stand 811

Riders on the storm A technically complex trenchless stormwater upgrade in Newmarket supported by Hynds Pipe Systems has garnered a recent award for the New Zealand specialty manufacturer.

he Lower Khyber Pass Stormwater Separation Project will separate stormwater from the existing combined network to reduce wet-weather loading on wastewater infrastructure, improve water quality, enhance flood resilience and support overall catchment performance in Newmarket. Over a nine-month construction programme, the project is part of a combined $17.5 million initiative alongside the Kingdon Street project under the Eastern Isthmus Water Quality Programme being overseen by Watercare and Auckland Council. Contractor March Cato for Auckland Council Healthy Waters is delivering the project. Hynds has worked with March Cato and Jacobs on the design, manufacture and installation methodology for two 6m diameter precast concrete manhole shafts. These serve as access structures and launch and retrieval shafts for a new 80m long DN 1500mm glass-reinforced pipe (GRP) pipeline installed by microtunnelling. This required two deep precast shafts, one of which is constructed with caisson methodology, enabling minimised footprint to construct a 24m deep shaft beneath one of Auckland’s busiest urban precincts. Early involvement from the contractor, designer and supplier allowed installation requirements to be considered alongside the engineering design, helping shape the final shaft configuration and construction approach. Caisson shaft design The project also represents a notable application of caisson construction methodology within permanent stormwater infrastructure. The 24m deep MHS1 shaft was constructed using a caisson sinking method to reach the required depth in challenging ground conditions, while MHS2 provided the receiving structure for the microtunnelled connection. Hynds collaborated with Jacobs on the shaft designs and manufactured the precast concrete shaft segments for both structures, producing 396 individual sections across 92 configurations to meet the project’s hydraulic, structural and constructability requirements. “From a manufacturing perspective, there was a significant amount of variation across the shaft segments,” said Greg Head, Technical Services Manager, Hynds. “Managing that complexity while keeping the programme moving required careful planning and close coordination across the project team.” Drawing on previous caisson shaft

Images: Hynds /March Cato

The caisson shaft comprises 22 rings, with 12 precast sections per ring, totalling 264 sections across 48 configurations.

Aerial view of the 24m deep MHS1 shaft in Auckland.

experience, the Hynds technical team worked with March Cato and Jacobs to improve manufacturing and installation efficiency while satisfying the hydraulic and structural requirements of the design. The precast

segments were produced using Hynds LC® lower-carbon concrete, supporting the project’s embodied carbon reduction objectives and maintaining the required structural performance.

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 51

Stand 811 The 24m deep MHS1 shaft comprises 22 rings, with 12 precast sections per ring, totalling 264 sections across 48 configurations. The depth of MHS1 was governed by the invert level of the existing 1800mm stormwater outlet. The incoming 1500mm GRP pipe creates a 10m internal drop, managed through cascade panels that disturb and dissipate flow energy. The 11m deep MHS2 shaft uses 132 precast sections across 44 configurations. It was designed around the invert of the jacked GRP outlet pipe and incorporates cascade panels to manage a 5.45m drop. Both shafts include central dividing panels to provide a dry access zone for inspection and maintenance. GRP jacking pipe and micro-tunnelling Between the shafts, March Cato installed an 80m, 1500mm GRP stormwater pipeline by microtunnelling from the Suiter Street launch shaft to the Kingdon Street retrieval shaft. GRP was selected to suit the tunnel boring machine diameter, anticipated ground conditions, the contractor’s construction approach and the need for efficient handling within a constrained site. The jacking pipe was structurally designed for a 500-tonne jacking force, exceeding the planned installation load. A 59mm wall thickness reduced pipe weight and outside diameter, improving handling within the confined worksite. The low-friction external surface also supports a more efficient singledrive installation. The reduced excavation diameter also meant less spoil to manage and remove from site, while lower frictional loads reduced the volume of drilling fluids required during the tunnelling process. “Reducing the outside diameter might

Hynds precast concrete segments are widely used in civil engineering projects like wastewater networks.

sound like a small change, but when you’re tunnelling it can have a real impact on spoil volumes, handling and the load being placed on the TBM,” said Todd Randell, Trenchless & Specialist Pipelines Advisor, Hynds. Ground conditions comprise native soils, basalt and East Coast Bays Formation (ECBF). Rather than deepening the pits to avoid rock, March Cato adopted a methodology that enabled tunnelling through the basalt layer. This reduced the depth required for the second shaft and simplified temporary works while avoiding additional New 1500mm glass reinforced pipe supplied by Hynds Pipes.

excavation and support requirements. This approach was supported by early engagement between March Cato, Jacobs and Hynds, allowing constructability requirements to be incorporated into the design process. The 80m pipeline was successfully installed in a single drive between the two shafts. The two precast shafts formed the enabling structures for the microtunnelling operation, serving as both launch and retrieval pits while meeting the project’s hydraulic requirements. Once tunnelling commenced, maintaining continuous progress became a priority, requiring careful coordination of deliveries, traffic management and site logistics throughout the programme. Working within a constrained urban environment also required construction activities to be carefully planned around neighbouring businesses and public access requirements. The Lower Khyber Pass Stormwater Separation Project drew on locally manufactured precast infrastructure, microtunnelling expertise and specialist pipeline solutions to deliver critical stormwater infrastructure in central Newmarket. Through close collaboration between the client, contractor, designer and supplier, Hynds contributed to both the shaft and pipeline solutions, supporting the successful delivery of the deep caisson structures and single-drive microtunnel installation. While largely hidden from view, the completed infrastructure will provide long-term stormwater capacity for Newmarket and support the continued growth and resilience of the catchment. For more more information, visit www.hynds.co.nz/

52 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

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Stand B20

German engineering, local expertise SANIPRO and Streicher Kanalsysteme have joined forces to the benefit of the Australasian trenchless market.

s trenchless technology expands the possibilities for pipe rehabilitation across Australasia, contractors increasingly want equipment that delivers precision without adding unnecessary complexity to the job site. At International No-Dig Auckland, SANIPRO will put that philosophy on display through its partnership with German trenchless technology specialist Streicher Kanalsysteme. As Streicher’s distributor and agent in the Australasian market, SANIPRO will showcase some of the technologies powering the partnership, including Streicher’s CLE electric cutting system for lateral reinstatement, as well as mainline robotic cutting and UV curing systems for larger-diameter rehabilitation. “For us, it’s not simply about selling another product,” SANIPRO Australia Director

Images: SANIPRO

The SANIPRO team completing technical equipment and service training at Streicher Kanalsysteme in Germany.

54 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Callan Davies told Trenchless Australasia. “It’s about bringing two experienced trenchless companies together to build a strong, long-term partnership within the Australasian market and provide customers with high-quality equipment, sales support, servicing, training and technical knowledge.” That approach reflects the experience behind SANIPRO. While the SANIPRO brand dates back approximately six years, its founders bring more than 25 years of operational experience, coming directly from the installation side of CIPP and manhole rehabilitation. Their experience includes delivering trenchless rehabilitation projects for councils, utilities and plumbing companies, as well as supplying and training contractors in CIPP equipment. “We don’t simply want to sell equipment – we

want to supply products that we understand, would be confident using ourselves in the field, and can properly support after the sale,” Davies said. Today, SANIPRO Group operates across Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Asia, with an offering that covers CIPP, UV curing technology, robotic cutting, CCTV inspection, sectional repairs and manhole rehabilitation, alongside training and technical support. The partnership with Streicher brings another layer to that offering. Streicher brings more than 30 years of trenchless industry knowledge and experience to the mix, while SANIPRO’s team has undertaken training with Streicher in Germany across equipment, servicing and repairs. That training allows SANIPRO to bring Streicher’s technical knowledge back to Australia and New Zealand and provide localised support to plumbers and specialist trenchless contractors investing in the technology. Meet the CLE One of the key technologies SANIPRO will showcase at No-Dig Auckland is the CLE, an electric robotic cutting platform designed primarily for lateral reinstatement and smallerdiameter robotic cutting applications. The CLE covers approximately DN55-DN300 through its interchangeable CL70 and CL40 cutting heads, allowing contractors to configure one equipment platform for different pipeline diameters rather than purchasing separate lateral cutting systems. The CL70 provides serious cutting capability through a high-performance, water-cooled, variable-speed electric motor. “The CL70 gives lateral rehabilitation contractors serious cutting capability without needing a large, complicated setup,” Davies said. “You’ve got a powerful 1kW water-cooled electric cutting motor, excellent mobility, precise cutting-head control and the ability to configure the CLE platform across DN55-DN300. “When that’s combined with local SANIPRO training, servicing, repairs and technical support, we believe it becomes a very strong long-term investment for plumbers and specialist trenchless contractors throughout Australia and New Zealand.” Davies said the cutting performance and precision, mobility, and versatility are three of the CLE’s key strengths. The cutting head features an HD camera, adjustable LED lighting and three camera-cleaning modes using air, water or an air-water spray. The CLE features precision actuators which provide more than 600 degrees of rotation,

and smaller-diameter robotic cutting, the SANIPRO-Streicher partnership also addresses the needs of mainline and large-diameter contractors. SANIPRO is providing Streicher mainline robotic cutters and UV curing systems to the Australasian market, giving contractors a broader offering of trenchless rehabilitation solutions. “We don’t see Streicher as a single-product partnership,” Davies said. “We see it as a complete robotic cutting and UV technology partnership for the Australasian trenchless market.” For SANIPRO, Streicher brings engineering quality, innovation and genuine trenchless industry knowledge. Combining that German engineering with SANIPRO’s practical installation experience and local support creates what the company describes as a strong offering for Australia and New Zealand. International No-Dig Auckland provides the setting to demonstrate that offering. “These industry events aren’t simply about displaying equipment,” Davies said. “They’re about meeting contractors, understanding the challenges they’re facing, demonstrating new technology and building long-term relationships. “Ultimately, No-Dig Auckland gives us an opportunity to demonstrate what the SANIPRO and Streicher partnership is really about – combining high-quality German trenchless technology with practical industry

The CL70 electric cutting head combines precise movement, an integrated camera and a water-cooled cutting motor.

experience, training, servicing and local support for contractors throughout Australia and New Zealand.” Meet the SANIPRO team at booth B20 during International No-Dig Auckland to see the Streicher CLE firsthand and discuss demonstrations, training, servicing and equipment options. For more information, visit saniproaustralia.com

AT32

ALL TERRAIN DRILL

together with tilt and axial feed movement. These functions give operators significant control when positioning the cutting tool inside a pipeline, particularly during lateral reinstatement where visibility and accurate cutting matter. The system also uses permanent internal pressurisation to help protect against water ingress. Its battery-powered electrical system and compact setup reduce dependence on the large compressor infrastructure normally associated with traditional pneumatic robotic cutters. The CLE trolley control system further supports mobility. Streicher has brought the primary control components together into a compact platform that contractors can transport and deploy efficiently. For lateral rehabilitation contractors working from vans or smaller trucks, or operating in locations with restricted access, SANIPRO sees that compact configuration as a significant practical advantage. Versatility is one of the CLE platform’s biggest strengths according to Davies. “The ability to configure the CLE gives contractors greater flexibility and the potential for greater equipment utilisation,” he said. “Through its interchangeable CL40 and CL70 cutting-head configurations, the CLE platform covers applications from approximately DN55 to DN300, allowing contractors to configure one equipment platform for different pipeline diameters.” While CLE focuses on lateral reinstatement

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Stand E07

Close-fit pressure lining expands in New Zealand

ew Zealand’s pressure mains are old and getting older. Cast iron from the 1930s and ‘40s, concrete-lined steel, early asbestos cement. Plenty of it sits under live rail corridors, state highways, harbour edges and, in at least one case we have worked on, an operating theatre. Most councils already know which lines are the problem. What they have often lacked is a renewal method that fits the corridor. Opencut is still the default specification on pressure pipe, and on these assets it is frequently the most expensive option once traffic management, utility diversions, reinstatement and consenting risk are costed honestly. That is the gap PipeTech has been working to close. As the New Zealand distributor and installer for ASOE, PipeTech has, over the past two years, put the ASOE FFRP pressure liner into four New Zealand pressure mains alongside its installation partners: two potable water, one sewer rising main, one hospital service under a live theatre. Every one of them a job where digging was either dangerous, prohibitively expensive, or flatly impossible. But first, it’s important to better understand the liner. FFRP stands for fabric reinforced flexible pipe. The liner is a seamless woven reinforcement layer with a bonded polyethylene inner and outer skin, folded into a U-shape and wound onto a drum. It is winched through the cleaned host main and inflated with air, at which point it opens out and presses hard against the host wall. Two things matter here. The first is close-fit. There is no annulus. The liner sits tight to the host pipe rather than floating inside it, so there is no gap for sediment or groundwater to migrate into and no ongoing corrosion path behind the liner. Diameter loss is limited to the wall thickness, typically 5 to 10mm. The second is that it is semi-structural, and that is the correct specification for most of what we line. The liner carries internal pressure independently. It relies on the host pipe for ring stiffness and external load. On a live reticulation main running at 3 to 7 bar in a corridor where the host pipe is corroded but still competent, a fully structural replacement is engineering the wrong problem, and paying for it. Where the host has genuinely lost its ability to hold ground load, a different product is the right answer. Being honest about that distinction is how the technology earns trust. 56 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

The ASOE liner drum set up in a live Hawera street corridor. The 750m DN150 sewer rising main was lined in a single pull beneath a working railway and twin 11kV cables.

Water liners run DN50 to DN1600. Oil, gas and hot water liners run DN50 to DN600. Single pulls of several kilometres are possible. Installation needs a winch and a compressor. Resins and styrene are not need. There is no cure time. Four jobs, four different reasons to stay out of the ground. Consider Borlases Road, Port Chalmers: a DN150 cast iron and AC rising main for Dunedin City Council, delivered with Nuflow Otago. The line runs down a hillside

with 30 to 40m of elevation change, with 0.6 to 1.2m of cover, threading between the harbour, a rail corridor and the road. Advanced corrosion, leak risk, and a design operating pressure of 1000kPa. Excavating meant deep trenching beside the harbour with rail and highway management on top. The liner was pulled, inflated, terminated with custom ASOE flanges and hydrostatically tested to 1.6 MPa. This was the first ASOE liner installed in New Zealand.

Images: PipeTech Ltd / Offshore Plumbing & Pipeline

Four completed ASOE FFRP installations in under two years have given New Zealand a working track record for close-fit pressure liners. PipeTech will have the liner, the flanges and the project data on stand at International No-Dig Auckland this October.

Terminating the ASOE FFRP liner into a custom flange assembly at Borlases Road, Port Chalmers. The completed main was hydrostatically tested to 1.6 MPa.

Site establishment on Tawhiti Road, Hawera. A single access pit at the pump station end, with the liner launched through an existing manhole.

Consider Tawhiti Road, Hawera: a 750m DN150 concrete-lined steel sewer rising main from the 1930s, for South Taranaki District Council, installed with Offshore Plumbing and Pipeline. The alignment crosses beneath a live railway and twin 11kV cables feeding oil and gas network infrastructure, in a congested corridor carrying stormwater, water and gas, with shutdown windows on the Mason Road pump station measured in hours. The line was pigged and CCTV inspected, then lined in a single 750m pull. One access pit was excavated at the pump station end. The launch was made through an existing manhole. Tested to 6 bar. Thompson Road, Napier: a DN300 cast iron watermain dating to 1941, 135m, installed with OPS Group. PipeTech’s largest diameter to date, and proof the method scales past the DN150 work that came before it. Tauranga Hospital: three DN100 lines,

roughly 14m each, running directly beneath an operating theatre. There is no version of this job that involves an excavator. Three short pulls, minimal disturbance; the theatre stayed in service. It is the clearest example PipeTech has of what close-fit lining is genuinely for: the assets nobody can afford to dig up. What to expect in Auckland International No-Dig Auckland is the first time ISTT’s flagship event has been held in New Zealand. According to PipeTech it is the right moment to put this technology in front of the people specifying renewals. The company will have liner samples on the stand, cut sections of the PILC coupling and flange system that terminates it, and the full data set from all four installations, including pressure test records and CCTV. Pipe Tech is inviting asset owners to bring them a problem line.

“If the liner suits it, we will tell you how,” said Rowan Burgess PipeTech Managing Director. “If it does not, we will tell you that too and point you at what does.” Also featured on the stand is the ASOE hose range PipeTech distributes in New Zealand: Mileflex PU layflat from 4 to 12 inch, and Longman NBR chemical-resistant hose from 1 to 12 inch, for bypass pumping, dewatering, irrigation and industrial transfer. New Zealand does not have a trenchless technology problem. The methods exist, they are proven, and four New Zealand councils and asset owners now have the pressure test records to show it said Burgess. “What we have is a get-on-with-it problem,” he said. “Come and talk to us about getting on with it.” For more information visit, www.pipetech.net.nz

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Stand C17

Generation now Australian Pipelining Supplies is driving innovation in pipe rehabilitation across Australia and New Zealand.

The APS team demonstrate patch relining tools at work.

58 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Images: APS

APS will showcase solutions spanning virtually every level of the relining industry.

s demand for trenchless rehabilitation continues to grow across Australia and New Zealand, contractors are looking for more than equipment and materials. Increasingly, they need industry partners capable of providing the technology, technical expertise and ongoing support required to succeed in an evolving and increasingly competitive market. For more than 15 years, Australian Pipelining Supplies (APS) has established itself as a leading supplier of premium pipe relining equipment, materials and technology, building its reputation on quality, innovation and a commitment to the long-term success of its customers. Founded in 2010, APS evolved from a successful Sydney-based plumbing business. With extensive practical experience across the plumbing and rehabilitation sectors, the company recognised an opportunity to provide contractors with access to high-quality products supported by the technical knowledge required to implement them effectively. From its earliest days, APS looked internationally for leading manufacturers and emerging rehabilitation technologies, carefully selecting products and systems suited to the specific requirements of the Australian and New Zealand markets. Today, APS supplies a comprehensive portfolio of pipe rehabilitation technologies and consumables to customers ranging from independent plumbing and relining businesses to major civil and infrastructure contractors.

More than equipment Central to the APS philosophy is the belief that supplying equipment is only the beginning of the customer relationship. As pipe rehabilitation technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, successfully integrating new equipment into a business requires practical knowledge and confidence. Contractors need to understand not only how a system operates, but where it can be applied effectively and how it can improve productivity, expand capability and create new commercial opportunities. APS provides comprehensive productspecific training, technical guidance and ongoing practical assistance, helping customers maximise the potential of their investment. This approach allows contractors to introduce new technologies with confidence, broaden their service capabilities and take on increasingly complex rehabilitation projects. For APS, success is not measured by the equipment leaving the warehouse, but by what its customers are able to achieve with it. Showcasing the future of relining in Auckland This year, APS will bring its extensive portfolio of rehabilitation technologies to New Zealand as an exhibitor at the International No-Dig 2026 exhibition in Auckland. The event provides plumbers, relining contractors, engineers and infrastructure professionals with an opportunity to explore the technologies shaping the future of trenchless pipe rehabilitation and speak directly with industry specialists about their practical applications. APS will showcase solutions spanning virtually every level of the relining industry — from accessible patch repair packages for plumbers looking to enter or expand their presence in pipe rehabilitation, through to complete inversion lining systems, robotic cutting equipment and advanced UV-curing technology. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet the APS team and discuss specific applications, equipment requirements and opportunities to introduce new rehabilitation capabilities into their businesses. A key strength of the APS range is its diversity. Rather than focusing on a single rehabilitation method, APS supports multiple technologies, allowing contractors to select the most appropriate solution for each application. Supporting the next generation of pipe rehabilitation With underground infrastructure across Australia and New Zealand continuing to age, demand for efficient, reliable and minimally disruptive rehabilitation methods is expected to remain strong. At the same time, developments in liner materials, robotics, UV curing and installation systems are expanding what can be achieved without traditional excavation. Contractors can complete projects more efficiently, address increasingly challenging applications and significantly reduce disruption

Brawoliner inversion pipe lining system.

for asset owners and surrounding communities. These developments are also creating new opportunities for businesses prepared to invest in the right technology and expertise. APS continues to evaluate emerging technologies from around the world, bringing proven solutions to the Australian and New Zealand markets while providing customers with the knowledge required to put those technologies to work. “From a plumber undertaking their first patch repair to a major contractor delivering complex infrastructure rehabilitation, APS remains focused on one objective,” said Darren Tickell, APS Sales Manager. “That’s providing

the technology, knowledge and ongoing support our customers need to strengthen their capabilities, grow their businesses and embrace the future of pipe rehabilitation.” As APS prepares to showcase its latest solutions at International No-Dig Auckland 2026, that commitment continues to drive the company forward — identifying better technologies, supporting the contractors who use them and helping advance the pipe rehabilitation industry across Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit www.pipeliningsupplies.com.au/ OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 59

Stand G05

Analyse this Denso Bore-Wrap for horizontal directional drilling has independent testing to validate the protection it offers on HDD projects.

60 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Gouge Test 2 tested without a weld margin to assess overall material integrity in standard sections. In both scenarios, Bore-Wrap demonstrated exceptional resilience. In the weld margin configuration, it resisted gouging forces up to 1250kgF before disbondment – more than double the load

One of the coated pipe samples used in testing – this one used Denso Bore-Wrap as the ARO for both the mainline and FJC.

required to compromise other tested systems. This is a critical result, as field joint weld zones are particularly susceptible to mechanical damage during pull-through. Beyond its mechanical performance, BoreWrap also offers several practical and long-term advantages for trenchless pipeline installations. It is fully non-shielding, ensuring

Images: Denso

s technology continues to evolve, so too does the expectation for protective coatings that can withstand the extreme demands of horizontal directional drilling (HDD). The team at Denso Australia believes that these expectations must be met with evidence – not assumptions. Since launching Bore-Wrap, Denso Australia has committed itself to an extensive program of internal research and development and independent third-party testing. Its most recent collaboration with the National Facility for Pipeline Coating Assessment (NFPCA) at Deakin University provided valuable, unbiased insights into the product’s performance across a range of fieldrelevant conditions. The testing assessed gouge resistance and adhesion strength using international standards including CSA Z245.20, NACE TM0215, and ASTM D4541. Two separate gouge test setups were used to reflect real-world HDD risks. Gouge Test 1 tested with a simulated weld margin to represent side-impact strain and stress at field joints.

A recent installation in Bolivar, South Australia.

Bore-Wrap is considered field friendly thanks to its formulation.

Gouge Test 1 Results (inclusive of simulated weld margin).

Gouge Test 2 Results (without weld margin).

compatibility with cathodic protection systems. The wrap is supplied in convenient, easyto-apply packaging and can be installed in multiple layers if required. Its field-friendly formulation allows for application in a wide range of environmental conditions, whether on-site or off-site. Bore-Wrap’s patented fibre architecture ensures that during HDD installations, its flexural strength is greater than that of the

underlying parent coating system such as FBE, 3LPE and 3LPP parent coatings. This is due to its high fibre content which provides enhanced durability under HDD stress, unlike more brittle UV-cured ARO systems. Adding to this, Bore-wrap’s overlaps are smooth thus allowing for an easier installation uninhibited by larger overlaps which can cause additional stress on coatings and equipment.

From lab validation to in-field success (such as with recent applications in Bolivar, South Australia), Denso’s approach has been consistent and clear: test, refine, verify, and protect. Denso Australia is committed to transparency, quality, and innovation. It invites engineers, asset owners, and pipeline professionals to explore the data for themselves. For more information, visit densoaustralia.com.au or contact denso@densoaustralia.com.au OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 61

Stand G07

Journey to Middle Earth As the international trenchless community prepares to gather at International No-Dig Auckland, kwikZIP reflects on its track record supporting complex civil infrastructure projects across New Zealand. Casing spaces help centre and protect the carrier pipe.

istributed throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands by Blick, kwikZIP casing spacer systems have been used by major contractors on challenging pipeline installations where protection, centralisation and installation efficiency are critical. Two Bay of Plenty projects, the Te Maunga outfall project and the Waiari Trunk Watermain, demonstrate the practical benefits of the technology in demanding trenchless applications.

Images: kwik-ZIP

Te Maunga: Negotiating challenging casing conditions The Te Maunga landward section outfall project in Tauranga required contractor HEB Construction to slip-line a 100m DN1200mm OD polyethylene (PE) water pipeline through an existing 1500mm concrete duct. The alignment ran directly beneath the Tauranga Eastern Link (TEL), a major transport corridor carrying approximately 21,000 vehicles per day, with an active main rail line alongside the highway. Open-cut excavation was not possible, requiring HEB to pull the heavy carrier pipe through the existing duct without disrupting surface infrastructure or damaging the new pipeline. Having used kwik-ZIP products on a previous project, HEB called on the manufacturer and supplier once more for Te Maunga because of the system’s quick installation time, simple screw-lock design and suitability for critical pipeline pulls. Inspection footage of the existing concrete casing revealed additional challenges, including misaligned joints, variable joint spacing and internal lips protruding up to 10mm. A cement ramp near the end of the section also had to be negotiated. “This installation had some interesting challenges to overcome,” said Blick Technical Sales Manager Clay Adams. “We needed a solution that would allow the casing spacers to bridge joint gaps and ride over the lips.” Following review of the footage, Blick recommended kwik-ZIP HDXT 103 casing spacers. Manufactured from an engineered thermoplastic blend, the spacers provide a lowfriction interface between the carrier and casing, while their load-sharing suspension system allows them to accommodate uneven surfaces. HEB installed concentrated spacer sets at either end of the jacking pipe, with additional spacers positioned at 1m intervals across the remaining span. This kept the PE pipeline centred and prevented contact with the abrasive concrete casing. 62 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

“We had technical support from the supplier and the product worked exactly as it should and no issues were encountered,” a HEB Construction spokesperson said. “They were very quick and easy to install, and HEB Construction would not hesitate in using them again should the situation arise.” Waiari: Speed and simplicity below ground The earlier Waiari Trunk Watermain Part A project in Te Puke provided HEB Construction with another application for the HDXT 103 system. Completed in June 2020, the project involved pulling a DN710mm PE water pipeline through a 1040mm steel jacking casing over a 43m run. The kwik-ZIP spacers were installed around the carrier pipe to maintain centralisation as it travelled through the steel casing. Centralising the PE pipeline helped prevent damage during installation and reduced the risk of future contact between the newly installed pipeline and the steel casing. Speed and simplicity were particularly important. Working below ground, an unnecessarily complex or time-consuming installation could have delayed the drillers pulling the pipeline through the casing and created knock-on delays elsewhere in the project. A single spacer was installed at either end of the jacking casing, with additional spacers

Blick distributes kwik-ZIP products across New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

positioned at 2m intervals between the ends. This provided support along the 43m run and prevented the PE pipeline from sagging. Site personnel were inducted using kwikZIP’s installation guide, ensuring the product was fitted correctly and efficiently. Once again, the system performed as intended, with no issues encountered during installation. See it at No-Dig Auckland Projects like Te Maunga and Waiari underline the strong presence of kwik-ZIP and Blick within New Zealand’s trenchless industry. By

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pairing globally proven spacer systems with local technical support, the partnership has delivered consistently low-risk outcomes for major civil contractors. As the industry gathers at International No-Dig Auckland, delegates will have the opportunity to connect with the team, examine the kwik-ZIP product range firsthand, and discuss how engineered centraliser and spacer systems continue to protect critical pipeline assets across Australasia. For more information, visit kwikzip.com

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Australian Pipelining Supplies (APS) is Australia and New Zealand's leading supplier of premium pipe relining equipment and materials. We help plumbers across Australia and New Zealand grow their businesses with innovative relining tech, expert training, and ongoing technical support. From your first patch to your tenth reline, we're there with the support to keep you working.

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MICROTUNNELLING

The main drive shaft is hoisted into the launch pit in Blackburn.

Common ground To minimise surface disruption in public and reserve spaces, Pezzimenti Trenchless were engaged by Yarra Valley Water’s prime contractor to complete microtunnelling works on a sewer branch duplication.

Images: Pezzimenti Trenchless

ipeline and wastewater network duplications to broaden network capacity especially in fast growing residential catchments have spurred local governments to commit to scaled investments in longterm dependability. Systemic resilience and environmental protection are naturally high on the agenda. With that comes the complexities of execution which require, more often than not, businesses equal to the challenge. In some cases, they have been borne out of such challenges. Pezzimenti Trenchless is one such business. The third generation underground solutions contractor remains an operational niche with a formidable reputation forged over many such projects since the company was first founded in 1957. Brothers Joe, Anthony and Stephen now spearhead the leading microtunnelling outfit. Working as a contractor for MFJ Constructions on a project undertaken on behalf of Yarra Valley Water in Blackburn South, Pezzimenti Trenchless were charged with installing over a kilometre of microtunnelling jacking glass reinforced pipe (GRP) spread across two distinct sites as part of the Eley Road Sewer Branch Duplication. These locations were Eley Road itself, a busy flat residential arterial that includes bus services, and nearby Holland Gully Reserve. To maintain traffic flows on Eley Rd and for the reserve to be preserved with as little interference as possible to trees and fauna, microtunnelling was identified as the methodology most suited for delivering the new installation. Works for the new sewer would range between depths of 4.0m to 6.0m. Ground conditions for the most part were siltstone, a sedimentary rock common in low energy environments. Much coarser than clay but finer than sand, siltstone lacks fissility, which is the ability to split into thin sheets, unlike shale. The composition of the GRP pipe profile varied. The scope of works included 1080m of microtunnelling for pipe diameters of 618mm OD, 515mm OD and 427mm OD GRP jacking pipes. Stage 1 was undertaken within Eley Road,

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MICROTUNNELLING

from Westminster Close to the entry of Eley Park. While Stages 2 and 3, completed earlier this year within Holland Gully Reserve comprised Royton Street to the shared pathway entry at Sartori Street; and then from Sartori Street to the Holland Road playground. With Blackburn being an established, highly built-up neighbourhood subject to high traffic flows, access was restricted between the hours of 9am and 3pm. Traffic and pedestrian management was understood in the earliest stages of project planning as factors that would determine the scheduling of underground works. These were to be completed in sections making the stop-start process highly episodic over several months. “It was out of the question to close down the road in big sections, so it was decided to do intermittent works around a block at a time in parcels that could be shutdown easily to divert the traffic,” said Joe Pezzimenti, Director Pezzimenti Trenchless. “Another challenge of sorts was the high amount of groundwater that we encountered and that required us to negotiate fill in at least two areas.” Cutter modifications, as a result, were necessary to accommodate these operations. The successful completion of the Eley Road Sewer Branch Duplication in Blackburn South comes on the heels, last year, of two other milestone achievements for Pezzimenti

Retrieval of the main bearing assembly at Holland Gully Reserve.

Trenchless. In Wollert, a new residential development 26km north of Melbourne, the team delivered the Love Branch Sewer which comprised 1850m of microtunnelling (718mm OD GRP) which was followed by an ambitious project later in the year year completed in

Munno Para, South Australia for Fulton Hogan and SA Water. It involved completion of 1030m (650MM OD GRP). For more information, visit pezztrenchless.com.au/

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HDD

Larger than life Meeting the demand of Australia’s growing pipeline projects with Vermeer.

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geotechnical environments. Call it a new generation maxi rig for modern pipeline construction The D550 brings microtunnelling like consistency to large diameter HDD work. Crews can install gas and oil pipelines, water infrastructure and high voltage electrical lines over long distances with improved efficiency and reduced surface disruption. Its hydraulic circuit delivers peak torque at high rotational speeds while maintaining low system pressure, helping extend component life and reducing

maintenance related interruptions. With a sound power level of only 111 dB(A), the machine operates quietly enough to comply with urban noise requirements, reducing the need for additional barriers on residential or city-based sites. Operationally, the D550 offers three auto drilling modes that help maintain consistent rotation, thrust and speed. Its onboard telematics system provides access to diagnostics and performance information for operators and service technicians. The drill also features ultra Images: RDO Equipment

s Australia expands its transmission pipeline network, the equipment used to deliver these large and complex projects must keep pace. Longer bores, environmentally sensitive alignments and stricter sustainability requirements are now common challenges across gas and energy infrastructure work. Vermeer has responded to these needs with the D550 Horizontal Directional Drill, a new generation maxi rig designed to support large scale pipeline installations with improved power, efficiency and control. The world is facing increased pressure on gas supply and Australia is no exception. This has accelerated the push for upgrades to existing networks and the construction of new long-distance corridors. Many of these projects require excavation across significant distances, which traditionally results in substantial disturbance to the surrounding environment. HDD is an increasingly preferred method for these installations and the D550 has been developed to provide a more sustainable and productive solution. With 100,000 ft-lb of torque, a 10.2-centimetre fluid course through the head shaft and mud swivel that allows up to 1,000 gallons per minute of drilling fluid at low pressure, the D550 leads the 550,000 pound drill class. It offers steady, ultra slow rotational control for hard rock and higher rotation speeds for clay conditions, giving contractors a versatile tool for complex

The quiet machine reduces the need for sound barriers on residential sites.

HDD

The new generation maxi rig offers three different drilling modes.

Vermeer D550 Horizontal Directional Drill.

slow speed thrust control technology that allows precise regulation of weight on bit, supporting optimal cutting action and improved tooling life during long bores. As large transmission pipeline projects continue to

grow across Australia, contractors require equipment that allows them to deliver projects efficiently while minimising environmental disturbance. The D550 provides this balance through a combination of power, control and

sustainability focused design. For more information about Vermeer Australia and their pipeline equipment solutions, visit www.vermeeraustralia.com.au

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HDD

Pilot season Using cutting edge horizontal directional drilling procedures, Michels has helped relocate a critical fuel pipeline as part of a Melbourne rail upgrade.

Overview of the crowded Sunshine location with the CBD in the background.

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profile incorporated 700 metres of vertical radii and 800 metres of horizontal radii. Geotechnical investigations revealed a challenging mix of alluvial soils, gravels, and hard igneous rock, including basalt, with recorded unconfined compressive strengths approaching 150MPa. These conditions demanded a drilling solution capable of preserving alignment accuracy while efficiently progressing through highly variable ground. The alignment also needed to pass beneath a dense network of existing infrastructure, including live rail infrastructure and associated utilities, communication assets, electrical services, drainage systems, and petroleum infrastructure. Maintaining adequate separation from these assets while achieving the required pipeline geometry and strict safety controls was a critical component of the pipeline relocation effort. To manage these conditions, Michels used the pilot hole intersect method. Two Michelsdesigned and fabricated Atlas 840 drill rigs, each with 500-tonnes of pull/thrust force, were deployed from opposite ends of the alignment and met at a predetermined point. Once the bores were connected underground, the team proceeded with dual-rig reaming operations. ParaTrack magnetic ranging and gyroscopic guidance systems were used to maintain

ParaTrack magnetic ranging and gyroscopic guidance systems were used to maintain tolerances.

Images: Michels

s Melbourne’s rail network prepares for one of the largest transport upgrades in Victoria’s history, a critical piece of underground infrastructure needed to be moved first. Michels delivered a major horizontal directional drill (HDD) to relocate the main jet fuel pipeline to Melbourne Airport without disrupting rail operations or the airport’s fuel supply. The Somerton jet fuel pipeline runs directly through the AlbionSunshine rail corridor — one of Melbourne’s busiest and most constrained corridors. The area is earmarked for major upgrades as part of the Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 and the transformation of Sunshine Station into a future transport superhub. Before construction, 1,836 metres of the 14-inch steel fuel pipeline needed to be relocated from its existing depth of 1 to 5 metres below the surface to approximately 30 metres underground. HDD is a trenchless installation method used to install utility and product lines without the need for open-cut excavation. It is well suited for environmentally sensitive areas or locations with existing utilities or underground structures, such as Melbourne Airport. The HDD alignment between Albion Station and Sunshine is the longest fuel pipeline HDD installation undertaken in Victoria. In addition to its length, the bore

HDD

tolerances. Michels employed precise coordination and surveying, continuous monitoring, and adaptive controls to lower the risk of inadvertent returns. The successful pilot hole intersect was one of the project’s major technical milestones and laid the foundation for the remaining construction phases. The final installation involved pulling approximately 1,836 metres of DN350 API 5L Grade X52 steel pipeline through the completed bore. The pipeline was protected with a high-performance coating system incorporating 3LPE coating, abrasion-resistant overcoat, and Denso bore wrap specifically selected for the HDD conditions. With an assembled weight of more than 181 tonnes, the pipe string required a significant installation effort. Michels continuously monitored thrust, torque, drilling fluid returns, and bore conditions throughout the pullback operation to ensure the installation proceeded safely and efficiently. Prior to commencing the pullback, Michels performed field verification testing on the drill string, confirming available pull capacities of up to 100,000 pounds and rotational capacities of approximately 60,000 pounds. Independent

Michels designed and fabricated the two Atlas 840 drill rigs deployed on the project.

engineering assessments completed during the design phase confirmed the calculated installation loads remained well within allowable pipe stress limits, with maximum installation stresses representing only a fraction of the pipe’s allowable capacity. Michels’ successful delivery of the HDD crossing removed a critical constraint for future rail construction while maintaining fuel supply

to Melbourne Airport. By safely relocating the pipeline approximately 30 metres underground, the project enables new station infrastructure, additional platforms, and rail capacity upgrades that will support Melbourne Airport Rail and future network growth for one of Victoria’s most significant transport projects. For more information, visit michels.com OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 69

HDD

Quiet achiever German-based company Prime Drilling is a known entity across the world for the manufacture of HDD rigs and allied equipment including an increasing focus on electric-powered units, a growing niche commanding attention within the business.

ith over 30 years working in the industry Ralf Kiesow has seen firsthand the ups and downs of the horizontal directional drilling segment. The Prime Drilling Sales Director appreciates the inflection point the HDD market finds itself at present. He was there during the ‘90s, one of the most fertile periods for innovation and the giant strides that have followed. In Europe alone, the market now approaches USD$2 billion in value. At present, Prime Drilling boasts more than 250 HDD rigs in successful operation around the world. The company’s bread and butter machine is its 45-tonner, the PD 45/19 MCU. Its versatility, not to mention reliability, has made it popular among customers and especially contractors whether they are expanding their capabilities or transitioning from other specialties, such as pipe jacking, for instance, into a concentrated focus on HDD. “That’s the machine people like the most and we sell a lot in the midsize range from 50-tonnes, 80-tonnes up to 150 tonnes,” said Kiesow. “A typical Prime Drilling customer is a frequent buyer. These customers come to us and outline the needs they have, and we will build a new rig to meet these needs.” A significant portion of the team at Prime Drilling are designers dedicated to building rigs to specification. The company structure enables continuous innovation, allowing each new

machine to benefit from the latest improvements and developments. Repeat customers often work with Prime Drilling to come up with a solution that is not only fit-for-purpose but designed with the exacting requirements of their operations both in their current and future forms. The product portfolio spans from compact 30 tonne rigs to units of up to 600 tonnes pull-force capacity. The principal changes to operations, at the moment, have external origins whether it be the advances in integrated technology, the scrutiny on safety and emissions, and the coming of AI, something Kiesow expects will prompt a seismic shift in the technology. The most recent conspicuous improvements, he said have been not in the physical hardware so much as the software, which has improved to no end. Remote diagnostics and the means to better preventative maintenance is much better than it has ever been. “The machines are getting smarter every day,” said Kiesow. “That helps immensely when the industry is being challenged to find enough high quality people for the job site.” Making the machines easier to maintain and operate helps particularly during shortages of talent. Well-ordered preventative maintenance also inhibits the multitude of negative effects associated with costly downtime. Prime Drilling’s intelligent drilling software platform captures all the available data from

the machine and informs the driller by sharing torque values, power usage, reaming steps, even pilot hole progress. That data can be made even more granular to relate specifics around borehole distances and torque requirements when encountering changes in ground conditions, to cite two examples. Software sophistication has made troubleshooting, no matter where the customer is in the world, a streamlined process with Prime Drilling able to dial into the rig and diagnose the issue with accuracy. “It doesn’t matter if the customer is in Africa, Australia or Argentina, we can access the dashboard of the driller and see exactly what he is doing,” said Kiesow. “Then we can help him to troubleshoot and go through all the relevant details. When I first started, we sometimes got phone calls from someone whose first language was not English, and we would have to deduce the problem from basic descriptions starting with where on the machine the issue appeared to emanate from. Nowadays, it is so exact — you can really help everybody to understand the machine.” Software has also optimised inventory for parts and stock on hand. A machine, that is easy and intuitive to operate, and which is designed to support the operator in almost every aspect of operation will help to attract talent and to get less skilled

Prime Drilling offers rigs build-tospec with up to 6000kN pull force.

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HDD

A powerful PD150 HDD rig used by AHD Trenchless in Australia.

Prime Drilling HDD rigs are currently operated in 34 countries worldwide.

Images: Prime Drilling

operators successfully involved according to Kiesow. “I believe, sooner than later, with AI involved, these rigs will take a really big step forward in getting really smart,” said Kiesow. “We are not there yet, but it is coming.” What is already here, however, is electric drivetrain technology with integrated battery power. Prime Drilling understands that contractors in some areas are becoming increasingly preoccupied with moving away from internal combustion propulsion such as diesel engines as Scope 1 emissions in ESG compliance come under the microscope on projects and fuel costs skyrocket. For almost every one of its diesel-powered HDD rigs, Prime Drilling offers a parallel electric version. Kiesow estimates half of its sales over the last four years have been in electric rigs as demand continues to grow. Prime Drilling developed their first electric rig in 2018 when a customer, who could no longer use combustion engines as a requirement, approached the team. The engineering department, anticipating demand would come in future years for electric drivetrains, already had blueprints at the ready. An advantage, as they weren’t building from scratch. Now Prime Drilling offers a hybrid-electric rig and an allelectric version. “Worldwide we are the biggest HDD manufacturer of electric rigs even though we are a small company by comparison to others,” Kiesow said. “In the end, most of the ideas and development comes from a dialogue with the customer because they need something different, or they ask us if we can change the machine or develop something and that is the same with the electric rigs.” The smallest all-electric rig is a 30-tonner while the largest one is 450-tonnes. Prime Drilling, moreover, have the capability to build beyond that providing there’s ample demand. “There’s not really a limit for us,” Kiesow added. “Our limitations so far are dictated by the market.” The first all-electric rig, a PD 200e, is currently working in the Netherlands. Prime Drilling also have electric rigs operating in Poland, Scandinavia, Switzerland and Germany. In Australia and New Zealand, TRACTO is the official distributor of Prime Drilling, whose first machines are working successfully in the Australian mining sector. These rigs are operating 24/7 and have, to date, eclipsed 50,000 working hours. “Something people need to understand is that we build a machine that lasts on the job site, and we want to make sure that there is no downtime, especially not when you’re pulling pipe,” said Kiesow. “All the machines we have built are still in working condition. That drives us and gives us the motivation to find the best suitable rig for these people, so they are happy with it for 20 years not just two or three.” For more information, visit prime-drilling.de/en/

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 71

HDD

ACP has expanded its size range of co-extruded striped poly pipes.

Images: ACP

Giant steps In the highly specialised service of PE pipe supply, Australian Custom Pipes has carved out an impressive platform from which to springboard.

his year is already proving to be an exceptional one for Australian Custom Pipes (ACP). In terms of identifiable growth, the Sydney-based manufacturer completed a major move back in March, opening a new Chipping facility which now provides it with an array of advantages. One of which was an immediate need to increase its capacity. This is the result of having significantly upped its production volumes thanks to the investment in a state-of-the-art extrusion machine that was commissioned in April this year. Business, subsequently, has enjoyed a period of stellar orders. “It’s been a big step for our business,” said Dennis Jones, ACP Managing Director. 72 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

“We’ve had record sales months over the last couple of months and that has helped set us up for further future opportunities.” The new, significantly bigger site incorporates 6,000m² outside storage, a tough task to find in the greater metropolitan area of Sydney. Situated in close proximity to the former site in Chipping Norton, which ACP first entered back in 2006, the move took over four months as it required setting up power water and air relocating all of their pipe extrusion lines and auxiliary equipment. The new extrusion machine, more importantly, doubles the size range ACP now offers. In keeping with recent trends, demand for larger diameter PE pipe has

not abated especially across the resources sector and growing trenchless market. With a larger extrusion line installed, ACP are able to produce pipes up to 630mm PN25 PE100 both with stripes or outer jackets — a breakthrough for the business. “That’s what mining and the expanding trenchless markets are increasingly focused on now,” said Jones. “There’s more directional drilling in the larger pipes, and with this new machine we can deliver on the bigger diameters.” With inhouse capacity increased, ACP offers services that include manufacturing pipes from 355mm up to 630mm, with 355mm diameter and above out of their size range, previously.

HDD

The new Chipping North facility will deliver increases in production capacity.

A brand-new extrusion machine enables ACP to produce polyethylene pipes from 355mm up to 630mm in size.

“The new state-of-the-art machine is a real beast,” said Jones. “It turns out pipe at unbelievable outputs and enables better workflow which in turn enables even more room for future growth.” Pipe lead times are often a pain point for field operators and civil crews. ACP excels in turnaround times, and the new facility optimises this advantage giving the team even greater efficiencies with site access at the new location also noticeably upgraded. Investments in cutting edge equipment and machinery have long been the backbone of the business since it was founded in 2004. Over the last two decades ACP has continually improved its ability to deliver quality products

The new site offers improvements for heavy vehicle access.

and expanded, among other priorities, its capacity to ensure continuity of its services for customers. “The new machine has already given us opportunities that were never available due to our restrictions on size and that’s exciting,” said Jones. “Now we’re getting more opportunities for bigger projects we might have missed out on before we broadened our pipe range.” Rigid inspections procedures throughout manufacturing processes ensures a high standard of accuracy across pipes, fittings and fabrications. ACP has WSAA approval for water pipes up to 630mm which aligns with its ISO accreditations and

product certifications. A business with a 22-year history possesses operational experience and expertise few startups can match. The positive reputational standing of the company is driven by the high standard of equipment, ACP’s experienced team in addition to the in-house training it provides according to Jones. “A lot of people talk a big game but don’t necessarily back it up,” said Jones. “Our increased capacity and the quality of products we supply are a source of pride.” He added, “We do what we say, which resonates in our market with our customers.” For more information, visit acpipes.com.au OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 73

NON-DESTRUCTIVE DIGGING

New kids on the block Vacuum Truck Supplies has unveiled a brand-new facility in Brisbane.

Images: VTS

early three decades of business – operating solely out of Mansfield, Victoria – had transpired previously to Vacuum Truck Supplies (VTS) expanding its operations interstate with a second facility, its first outside Victoria. The new site, situated in a recently developed industrial area at North Harbour, between Morayfield and Burpengary East in Moreton Bay, is a secure 2300m² standalone facility. It incorporates a large commercial shed and significant office spaces over two levels with convenience access for

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heavy vehicles. Plans for expansion into Queensland have been in the works for quite some time and even predate VTS Queensland Sales Manager Craig Beinke, who has been with the company for 18 months. “We’ve had a presence in Victoria for 30 years now, and as you can imagine, our number of vehicles sold in Victoria itself is quite high,” said Beinke. “Just by the geographical separation, those numbers are historically less in Queensland.”

Thus Queensland represents a significant growth opportunity for the business. Having a bricks and mortar in the state, according to Beinke, where customers can come to look, touch, feel and talk about the build they want is certainly a big development for the growing business. “The new site has got three roller doors at container height to give us really good vehicle access and that allows us to have a large parts department as well as good parking for our rental fleet and vehicles for sale not to mention

NON-DESTRUCTIVE DIGGING

multiple workshop bays,” he told Trenchless Australasia. “Perhaps the biggest thing for me is the improvement in service I can offer to Queensland customers now.” Having ready access to parts is going to be a valuable advantage for customers whether they are new, longstanding or prospective. Holding parts locally will also reduce freight costs drastically and dramatically improve uptime. Customers can forego the expense, for instance, associated with putting a pump on a pallet in Victoria and then shipping it all the way up

to Queensland. “The speed that they can get either a pump or a replacement hose or another part for something that needs to be fixed straight away, matters,” said Beinke. “No one can afford to have their trucks parked up for three or four days while awaiting freight to be transported two states away.” The new facility will also house a rental fleet from the group’s newly launched Vacuum Truck Rentals division. The new facility gives VTS provision to incorporate support

functions like the service department to maintain and service both rental fleet and dedicated vehicles of customers including their vehicles that VTS hasn’t built. “A customer might have one of our trucks and one of someone else’s trucks, and we can certainly do the servicing on that,” said Beinke. “We can provide a one-stop shop for our customers and it gives us a massive boost for our support capabilities we can offer our customers.” The North Harbour site, as part of the new

Aerial view of the 2300m² property in North Harbour.

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NON-DESTRUCTIVE DIGGING

A VTS rental unit outside the brand-new QLD facility.

rental business, saw the arrival of its first rental units in September. Not only does it give customers options to scale up but it will allow them to meet a need should they have planned or unplanned maintenance. There’s another significant benefit according to Beinke. “It also gives people the opportunity to try before they buy,” he said. “We’re not selling vacuum cleaners, so there is a barrier to entry on price. That ability to actually rent a unit, the exact unit that they may want to buy for one or two months, is really valuable to the customer and to VTS as a sales tool.” Lead times for purchase, what’s more, can sometimes be up to six months. “A lot of the times, when people make the decision to procure a new vacuum truck, often it’s off the back of a contract award, and they don’t have the time to wait,” explained Beinke. “So, if they want to buy a new DiggerVac or a DrainVac or a semi or anything really, the ability to place an order and then hire a vehicle for a set period of time while we build their truck enables them to immediately bring that work in house rather than subcontract it out before their vehicle arrives.” The coming of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games and subsequent infrastructure investment downstream of the announcement were more a bonus rather than pivotal to the expansion plan according to VTS CEO Adam Johnston. “It certainly doesn’t hurt the cause when projects like these are on the horizon, but we 76 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

The new site is situated conveniently on a corner block.

are not viewing this through a short-term lens,” he told Trenchless Australasia. “Regardless of upcoming projects we want to be a permanent fixture in Queensland, providing customers a long way from Mansfield with immediate support and the same stellar service they get from the Victorian team.” In order to bring these longstanding plans to fruition, VTS needed to find someone with the right background, experience and temperament to build around. They found it in Beinke according to Johnston. “VTS is a business built on strong relationships, and we needed someone we could trust to provide that a long way from Mansfield. We love that we have found that in Craig and

he has been the trigger for us to get moving. This gives us a great springboard for the next five to ten years and I believe it shows the commitment we have to our Queensland customer base,” said Johnston. The advantages to VTS and its customers, primarily immediacy and support, are largely one and the same, he said. “Easier access to parts, onsite maintenance and repair, the ability to come and play with new gear without jumping on a plane to Victoria,” he said. “All of these things of course are great for VTS, but only because they are great for our customers.” For more information, visit vacuumtrucks.com.au/

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PIPE JACKING

AUSTRALIA’S ORIGINAL NAME IN MICROTUNNELLING The Pezzimenti name has been synonymous with pipeline construction since 1957 when G. Pezzimenti and Sons began contracting to the Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works. Since then, Pezzimenti Trenchless has established itself as a leader in the trenchless industry, using the Pezzimentideveloped laser-guided microtunnelling system to install gravity sewers, water mains, stormwater, gas and electrical conduits ranging in diameters from 325 to 1850mm. Working with all leading sewer and water contractors and all major water boards throughout Victoria and South Australia.

The Next Generation in Trenchless Technology Unit 2 / 85 Heatherdale Road, Ringwood Vic 3134 PO Box 2500, North Ringwood Vic 3134 P: (03) 9872 4596 E: info@pezztrenchless.com.au

EVENTS

Image:

Caption - Top

We built this city Premier trenchless event, No-Dig Down Under 2027, returns to Sydney for the second time this decade.

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The 2025 Melbourne event attracted approximately 3,011 attendees from across Australia, New Zealand and around the world, highlighting the growing importance of trenchless technology in supporting sustainable infrastructure delivery and asset management. At this event, what’s more, 78 per cent of attendees were decision-makers, while 25 per cent represented asset owners and utilities, highlighting the event’s ability to connect solution providers directly with the organisations responsible for Australia’s underground infrastructure. For exhibitors and sponsors, this audience represents a valuable opportunity to engage with the people specifying, procuring and delivering trenchless solutions across major infrastructure projects. “No-Dig Down Under is built around bringing the right people into the room, and the audience data from our previous event really demonstrates the quality of that audience,” Head of Marketing – Events at Prime Creative Media Molly Hancock said. “With almost eight in ten attendees identifying as decision-makers, and a quarter coming from asset owners and utilities, the event provides an

A view from the floor of the successful 2025 event held in Melbourne.

incredibly relevant environment for businesses looking to build relationships with the people responsible for underground infrastructure.” The 2027 event is already attracting strong support from across the trenchless sector, with Rob Carr, Interflow and Michels Trenchless among the organisations coming on board as sponsors. Their early commitment reflects the industry’s continued support for a dedicated event focused on the technologies, expertise and people driving the future of underground infrastructure. “We’re incredibly pleased to see leading names in the industry committing to No-Dig Down Under so early,” Hancock said. “The support from organisations including Rob Carr, Interflow and Michels Trenchless shows that there is a real appetite for an event that brings the entire trenchless community together.” With strong industry demand already building, companies are encouraged to secure their place on the exhibition floor early. For more information, visit www.nodigdownunder.com/attend/

Image: Prime Creative Media

he Southern Hemisphere’s premier trenchless technology conference and exhibition will head to Sydney next year on 21–22 July. No-Dig Down Under last visited Sydney in 2022, where it garnered strong engagement from across the sector and reinforced the city’s role as a key meeting point for trenchless innovation and infrastructure delivery. This return to Sydney builds on that momentum, with the 2027 edition set to take place at Sydney Showground, placing the industry right in the heart of one of Australia’s most established event precincts. Located within Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney Showground is a legacy venue from the 2000 Olympic Games and has since evolved into a major hub for exhibitions, trade events and large-scale industry gatherings. Its flexible indoor halls and strong transport links make it a practical choice for national and international delegates, with direct rail access and walkable connections across the precinct. Following his election as ASTT President, Blair Telfer said he is looking forward to leading the Society and helping deliver another successful No-Dig Down Under event in 2027. “I am very excited and proud to be the incoming President of ASTT to continue the awesome work of the presidents before me. It is an honour and a privilege to lead the Society,” Telfer said. “I am equally excited to look forward to No-Dig Down Under 2027 in Sydney and the chance to catch up with all our Australasian trenchless practitioners. The past events have gotten bigger and better than the previous and I’m sure everyone will enjoy Sydney 2027.” The decision to host the event in Sydney follows feedback from the industry, with the city selected due to its strong pipeline of infrastructure projects, growing demand for trenchless solutions and strategic importance to the sector.

EVENTS

Operational case studies are one reason to check out the Education Hub.

Images: Expertise Events

The shape of water Technology, innovation and expertise are set to converge at AUSJET26.

s councils, utilities and contractors face growing pressure to do more with ageing infrastructure, AUSJET26 and LEW26 will showcase the technologies, solutions and industry insights shaping the future of underground asset maintenance. Having established itself as a key industry gathering since launching in Melbourne in 2022, AUSJET will move to Sydney for the first time in 2026, co-locating with the inaugural Liquid & Environmental Waste Expo (LEW26) at Sydney Showground on October 28-29. Together, these events will bring together asset owners, contractors, councils, utilities, operators and suppliers from across the sewer, wastewater, drainage and environmental services sectors, creating one of Australia’s most comprehensive industry gatherings for underground asset maintenance and environmental services. It’s no secret that ageing sewer and stormwater networks, growing populations, tighter maintenance budgets and rising expectations around service reliability are forcing councils, utilities and contractors to find smarter ways to inspect, maintain and rehabilitate critical assets. The challenge is no longer simply maintaining existing infrastructure. It is identifying technologies and operational approaches that can improve productivity, reduce disruptions, enhance safety and extend asset life, all while delivering greater value from limited resources. Advances in water jetting, CCTV inspection, robotics, vacuum loading and trenchless rehabilitation technologies are transforming 80 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

how organisations manage underground assets. For many asset owners and contractors, however, the question is no longer whether these technologies can deliver benefits, but which solutions will provide the greatest operational and commercial impact. These challenges and opportunities will be a major focus of AUSJET26, Australia’s leading event for water jetting, drain cleaning and infrastructure maintenance professionals. Rather than relying solely on supplier presentations, websites or product specifications, visitors can compare solutions side-by-side, see equipment operating live and discuss operational challenges directly with manufacturers, suppliers and industry specialists. For organisations planning future investments in maintenance equipment, rehabilitation technologies or operational improvements, that ability to assess technologies firsthand can provide valuable insights and support better-informed purchasing decisions. AUSJET26 provides a unique opportunity to evaluate these technologies in one location. Across the country, asset managers and contractors are being asked to do more with existing resources while reducing service disruptions, controlling costs and meeting increasingly stringent compliance and safety requirements. Many organisations are actively seeking solutions that can improve maintenance efficiency, minimise downtime, increase crew productivity and reduce whole-of-life asset costs while maintaining

service reliability. Maintaining underground assets requires far more than a single solution. Effective network management depends on inspection, cleaning, condition assessment, maintenance and rehabilitation technologies working together to support long-term asset performance and informed renewal planning. Visitors to AUSJET26 will be able to explore a broad cross-section of technologies supporting every stage of the asset lifecycle, from high-pressure water jetting and blockage removal through to CCTV inspection, robotic systems, vacuum loading and rehabilitation solutions. Attendees will also have the opportunity to discover innovations that help identify defects earlier, improve maintenance planning, optimise resource allocation and support more cost-effective rehabilitation decisions. The co-location with LEW26 further expands the opportunity by bringing together suppliers and specialists operating across wastewater, environmental services and liquid waste management. Together, these industries play a critical role in maintaining sewer and drainage networks safely, efficiently and in compliance with environmental requirements. The result is a broader marketplace of solutions, expertise and practical knowledge than either event could deliver independently. For many organisations, the ultimate goal of adopting new technology is improving operational outcomes. Whether that means reducing maintenance costs, increasing crew efficiency, extending asset life, minimising

EVENTS

Live demonstrations are a major point of difference for the event.

service interruptions or strengthening compliance performance, the right technology can deliver measurable benefits across multiple areas of the business. AUSJET26 will showcase innovations designed to help organisations achieve those outcomes while maintaining high standards of safety and service delivery. For councils, utilities and contractors facing increasing operational pressures, discovering technologies that deliver practical productivity gains and long-term value can be a significant advantage. Safety remains front of mind Safety continues to influence how maintenance work is planned and delivered across the industry. Whether undertaking confined space operations, sewer cleaning, pipeline inspections or high-pressure water jetting activities, organisations are increasingly seeking technologies that reduce worker exposure to risk while maintaining operational performance. AUSJET26 will showcase innovations designed to support safer work practices, improve operational visibility and help organisations meet evolving safety requirements. For many attendees, understanding how industry peers are managing safety challenges and implementing new approaches can be just as valuable as discovering the latest equipment. Alongside the exhibition, visitors will have access to live demonstrations and the Cleanaway-sponsored Education Hub, delivered by AUSJET. Designed to complement the exhibition floor, the program will feature practical

presentations, operational case studies and industry expertise focused on the challenges facing contractors, councils and utilities. Experience real world solutions Live demonstrations again will be key to the event experience. Attendees will gain insights into emerging technologies, operational best practice, safety improvements and real-world examples of how organisations are improving asset maintenance outcomes. By combining education with hands-on demonstrations

and direct access to suppliers, visitors can gain practical knowledge that can be applied immediately within their own organisations. Connect with the industry Technology is only part of the value of attending. AUSJET26 and LEW26 will bring together professionals from across Australia’s sewer, stormwater, wastewater, drainage and environmental services sectors, creating valuable opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas and discuss common challenges. AUSJET26 has already attracted many of the sector’s leading suppliers, including Cleanaway, Bucher Municipal, KAISER, Brokk/Aquajet, WOMA, Hammelmann, KOR Equipment Solutions, Vacuum Truck Supplies, IBAK, Samson Pumps, Den-Jet and BlastOne. The co-located LEW26 exhibition broadens the event further with participants including Remondis, Envirowaste Services, Mega Pacific and Emtivac Engineering. Whether engaging with peers, learning from asset owners or discussing solutions with manufacturers and suppliers, attendees will have access to a broad cross-section of the industry under one roof. For many visitors, these conversations often provide some of the most valuable insights gained during the event. Following successful Melbourne events, AUSJET’s move to Sydney brings Australia’s premier water jetting and infrastructure maintenance exhibition to one of the country’s largest concentrations of councils, utilities, contractors and infrastructure professionals. The Sydney location will make the event more accessible for many NSW-based organisations while attracting visitors from across Australia seeking the latest technologies, industry insights and business connections. For more information visit ausjetconnect.com.au

Leading manufacturers will be on hand to discuss products and the latest in solutions.

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 81

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND

What to expect at International No-Dig Auckland 2026 This year’s event examines how trenchless methods are supporting the next generation of water networks, wastewater, gas, electricity, and telecommunication utilities.

nternational No-Dig Auckland 2026 sets a precedent. It marks the first time the premiere global flagship event for the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT) has been held in New Zealand. Renowned for its technically rigorous and practical program, International NoDig Auckland offers a platform for sharing knowledge that drives better outcomes across underground infrastructure, utilities and the broader community. This year’s mustattend event is sponsored by Pipe Core as platinum partner, Vermeer, TRACTO and Global Trenchless as gold sponsors, OptionX, McConnell Dowell, CREGA, IMS Robotics, Herrenknecht as silver sponsors, and Veolia, Auckland Council, Engineering New Zealand, Water New Zealand, Selwyn Water as official industry partners. The show takes place on 2728 October at the New Zealand International Convention Centre. Every exhibitor is profiled in these pages. To learn more about this year’s event, and each exhibitor be sure to check out the official show guide on pages 86-87.

82 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Training courses Kickstart International No-Dig Auckland on Tuesday, 27 October 2026 with training courses delivering the latest techniques, cutting-edge technologies and essential safety standards to keep you ahead in the industry. These sessions between 8am-5pm are devoted to horizontal directional drilling, renovating pipes by lining, and new installation methods and will offer participants insights from the latest trenchless techniques, innovative technologies and essential safety standards. This will be followed by welcome drinks at the NZICC Trade Show Floor from 5pm to 7pm. Wednesday 28 October Kicking off the conference is a keynote presentation led by The International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT). This will be followed by a keynote address and then an international panel session. After morning tea, attendees will learn about trenchless methods, case studies and innovations in rehabilitation and new

installation streams cutting-edge methods, materials and case studies for installing brandnew underground pipelines and infrastructure without traditional open-cut trenching and more. The Networking Night begins at 7pm in the Town Hall. Thursday 29 October At 9am Lorraine Kendrick, Beca’s Business Director – Water, is the keynote speaker of ‘Water sector post reforms – opportunities and challenges in the new business environment.’ This is followed by a panel session headlined ‘The Road Ahead: Trenchless Technology in New Zealand’s Water Future’, from 9.30am to 10.15am in the Auditorium. The discussion will examine how key organisations are planning to deploy trenchless methods across upcoming projects, including the renewal of ageing assets and the delivery of more efficient and resilient infrastructure. The closing event of this year’s International No-Dig Auckland will be the ISTT Awards Gala, proudly sponsored by Pipe Core.

Platinum sponsor

Gold sponsors

Silver sponsors

Industry partners

Supported by

Charity partner

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 83

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND FLOORPLAN

Floorplan B05 B16

B27

A40

A14

A28

B17 B21

C04 C01 D01 B11

B18 B22

I36

B20

B26

C17

C21

C23

C27

B15

C06 C14 D05

D08 D09

D03

D07

D02

B14

C30

B12

D27

D29

LOUNGE D22 D30

D12

D04

D14 E11

E21

E07

E02 E06

E12

F23

F03 F02 F06

F10

F14

F16

G01 G03 G05

G07 G09 G11

G13

G15 G17

G04

G06

F18

G18

LOUNGE

H15

H01 H03 H05

H17

H28

H12 H16

H08

G19

I21

H26

I11

H30 J44 J46

I04 Advertisers

J27 J19

Sponsors

84 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

I34

I38

I47

*Floorplan not to scale. Subject to change.

F01

Company

Stand

Company

Stand

All Drill NZ

G15

KRE Engineering Services

B12

AMEX SANIVAR

C30

kwik-ZIP Spacers

G07

Amiblu

B15

March Cato

C27

Applied Felts

G06

Maskell-Subor

J19

Aquatech Solutions

B05

Matsol

D09

AusProof

C04

McConnell Dowell

H26

Australia Anliner

I36

Minitap

H28

Australian Pipelining Supplies

C17

NordiTube AUS

C14

beforeUdig

F18

Nuflow

H08

Blick Group

F06

OptionX Group

E06

Bohrtec GmbH

A40

Pipe Core

E11

Boss Attachments/LaValley Industries

E02

Pipe Magic

D08

Bucher Municipal

H16

Pipe Technologies

E07

BurrowTech

D22

PipeWorks

C14

CANGZHOU GREAT DRILL BITS

D12

Pneuvibe

F16

CDE

F14

Polypipe

B14

CDS HDD DESIGN

D03

Pro Line

D07

Channeline

D30

ProKASRO

H16

Coninnova

D05

R&R McClure Excavations

D04

CREG

G19

Recore

A14

Denso

G05

RedZone Robotics

D29

Derrick Corporation

E21

RIX Group

J27

Digital Control Incorporated

G11

SANIPRO

B20

Ditch Witch CEA

I11

Schauenburg MAB

G01

DOWN2EARTH

H03

SECA

C23

Drillto Trenchless

H17

Sub Surface Detection

J46

EasyDrill

B18

Suzhour Kensor Instrument Technology

G17

Empire Infrastructure

F01

SWP Australia

I04

Frontline Machinery

G04

SYSTRA

F03

Future Proof Solutions

F23

TCEN Engineering Equipment

G03

Ghella

J27

TDG Environmental

F10

Global Survey

G09

TRACTO Australia

E12

GN SOLIDS AUSTRALIA & TRENCHMATE

G18

UDM Group

J46

Guideline Geo

I47

United Tunneling

H12

Hadlee & Brunton

D22

Universal Underground

H12

HDI Lucas

C21

Vacvator

A28

Hebei Huayuan Science and Industry

J44

Vermeer

H16

Herrenknecht

H15

VIP-WECO NO-DIG Pipe Repair & Sealing System

B16

Hynds Pipes Systems

B11

Vortex/BKP Berolina

F02

IMPREG

I34

Warren Environmental

D27

Inrock

H01

Wuxi Double Horse Drilling Tools

B21

Kerry Drainage & Civil

D01

Youngman Richardson

D14

KOR Equipment Solutions

I21

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 85

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND CONFERENCE PROGRAM

DAY ONE - TUESDAY 27 OCTOBER

9:00am-4:00pm

ISTT Workshop 1

ISTT Workshop 2

Horizontal Directional Drilling

Renovation of Pipes by Lining

ISTT Workshop 3 New Installation Methods

5:30pm – 7:00pm Welcome Reception & Exhibition Opening - NZICC Expo Floor

DAY TWO - WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER Plenary Registration and welcome coffee

8:45am-9:00am 9:00am-9:15am

Opening address (Auditorium) - Mark Habler

9:15am-9:45am

Keynote presentation (Auditorium) - Declan Downey

9:45am-10:15am

Keynote presentation (Auditorium) - Sam Ariaratnum Morning tea

10:15am-11:20am Stream 1 - REHABILITATION Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Rehabilitation of Water Mains in 11:30am-12:00pm Singapore Presenter: Aldred Er

Stream 2 - NEW INSTALLATION Eliminating a Construction Shaft through an Innovative Curved Microtunnelling Drive – Lessons from New Zealand’s Longest EPB MTBM Pipejack

Stream 3 - OTHER Finite Element Parametric Study on Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Box Culverts with Perforation Defects Presenter: Dongting Wang

Presenter: Bhargava Jinukula Seismic Risk Assessment and Economic Stability Evaluation of Composite Box Evaluation of CIPP Rehabilitation in Culvert with Steel Plate for Rectangular 12:00pm-12:30pm Water Distribution Networks Pipe Jacking Presenter: Kalyan Piratla

Top tips from Germany for applying Direct Pipe Developments in New quality assurance in sewer rehabilitation Zealand Presenter: Iain Naismith

3:00pm-3:30pm

Presenter: Paul Cooper

From Established to Emerging: The Rise HDD — Changing the Game for Gravity of Spray-In-Place Polymer Pipe (SIPP) in Sewer: 150 km to Design Grade Trenchless Rehabilitation Presenter: Gagan Aggarwal Presenter: Brian Brandstetter

Machine Learning-Based Estimation of Corrosion Depth in Sulfuric AcidCorroded Concrete Presenter: Yuki Mimura A Planning-Stage Safety Assessment Method Leveraging the Advantages of Trenchless Technology Presenter: TAKANORI KOSEKI

Afternoon tea

3:30pm-4:00pm

4:00pm-4:30pm

Presenter: Fax McKernan

Lunch

12:30pm-2:20pm

2:30pm-3:00pm

Presenter: Hideki Shimada

Seeing Before Digging: How Advanced 3D Reality Capture Enabled Safe Connections to Auckland’s Live Wastewater Network

12 month Inspection and Sampling Report, EPR Rehabilitation of Asbestos-Cement Pipeline1 Fair Street, Shepparton, Victoria

On the driving force of HDD with the analysis of control factors

TunnelHub – One Cable, Many Capabilities

Presenter: KEH-JIAN SHOU

Presenter: Matt Jarvis

Minimized impact: sustainable installation of new pipeline networks

Underground Infrastructure Information Quality and Long-Term Asset Management

Presenter: Steven Nash

4:30pm-5:00pm

Design of a Repeated Buckling Fatigue Test Device and Experimental Investigation on Mechanical Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Lined Hoses Presenter: Xuehao Wang

7:00pm-11:30pm

86 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Presenter: Simon Herrenknecht

Presenter: Long Zhan

Networking Evening - Auckland Town Hall

DAY THREE - THURSDAY 29 OCTOBER Welcome coffee and networking

8:45am-9:00am 9:00am-9:30am

Keynote presentation

Water New Zealand – Lorraine Kendrick

9.30am-10.00am

Keynote presentation

David Hermans - MCERT

10.00am-10:45am

Panel Session: The Road Ahead: Trenchless Technology in New Zealand’s Water Future

Dave Neru – Veolia, Dietmar Londer – Auckland Council, Alex Cabrera – Selwyn Water, Watercare

10:45am-11:15am

Morning tea Stream 1 - REHABILITATION

Engineering and Construction Considerations for Slip Lining in Long11:30am-12:00pm Distance Trenchless Lining Systems Presenter: Charles Sweeney

Alternative Approach to Determine 12;00pm-12.30pm HDB in Liner Materials Presenter: John Matthews

Stream 2 - NEW INSTALLATION

Detection of Contact with Buried Utilities Using Acceleration Responses During Auger Excavation

Techniques for reducing nonproductive time when drilling Clay Presenter: Robert Petrie

Presenter: WATARU KOKUBO

Development of Highly Durable Polymer Concrete for Telecommunication Manholes: Effects of Silane Coupling Agent and Isophthalic Resin Presenter: Hisatoshi Kasahara

FUTURE-PROOFING STORMWATER ASSETS: TRENCHLESS RENEWAL OF 12.30pm-1.00pm DN 1460 and DN 1495 CULVERTS IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Presenter: Katharina Helming 1.00pm-2.20pm

2:30pm-3:00pm

3:00pm-3:30pm

7:00pm-11:00pm

Presenter: Long Zhan

Data Handling of Cutting Face by Using Empowering the Next Generation: High-density Slurry Type Box Pipe The Formation of the ASTT Young Jacking for Numerical Analysis Trenchless Professionals Presenter: Kaho Fujii

Presenter: Ash Hamer

Lining Up the Right Defense: Epoxy Coatings for Concrete in Aggressive Wastewater Environments

Enabling HDD Installation of Power Promoting trenchless by reducing Cable Conduits in Urban Roads in Japan environmental emissions as a basis for Using a Mechanical Joint System contract competition

Presenter: Brian Brandstetter Full-scale experimental evaluation of spray-applied mortar lining for trenchless rehabilitation of deteriorated reinforced concrete pipes

Presenter: MASAHIRO YOSHIMOTO

3:30pm-4:00pm

4:30pm-5:00pm

Understanding the Complexity of Underground Utility Locating: Signal Interpretation and Underground Risk Management

Lunch

Presenter: Jiajia Zheng

4:00pm-4:30pm

Stream 3 - OTHER

Presenter: Jari Kaukonen

FOG-BASED GUIDANCE Feasibility of wide-area screening TECHNOLOGY FOR LONG-DISTANCE for surface anomalies caused by the CURVED PIPEJACKING deterioration of buried infrastructure Presenter: Lu Wang

Presenter: Shino Furuichi

Afternoon tea GRP Circular and Non-Circular Structural Design Considerations for human access diameters: A Comparison Against DWA-A-143 and WRc Methodologies

Guided Auger Boring in All Ground Conditions

Presenter: Bryce Fryar

Presenter: Kimberlie Staheli

Making the Invisible Visible - Reducing Utility Strikes with UDM + Advanced GPR

Presenter: Heinz Plum

Presenter: Rodney Brumby Presenter: Mark Robinson From Constraints to Solutions - A Design and Construction of the Longest THE EFFICIENCY OF THE DECANTER Rehabilitation Method Selection Toolkit Direct Pipe Installation in North America CENTRIFUGE IN THE TREATMENT OF for Live Interceptor Sewers - 5,200 feet of 52-inch Steel Casing DRILLING SLURRY Presenter: Federico Gennaretti

ISTT Gala Awards Dinner - Aotea Centre

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 87

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - SPONSOR PROFILES PIPE CORE

E11

Pipe Core supplies trenchless technology for pipeline inspection, cleaning, repair and renewal across Australia and New Zealand. Its equipment, materials, training and support cover wastewater, stormwater, potable water and culvert infrastructure, including CIPP, UV relining and drain maintenance. Through global technology partnerships and local expertise, Pipe Core helps contractors, councils and asset owners achieve durable, sustainable outcomes.

pipecore.com.au

VERMEER

H16

Vermeer is a global manufacturer of industrial equipment for underground construction, utility installation, vacuum excavation, recycling, forestry and environmental markets. Founded in 1948, the company produces horizontal directional drills, trenchers, vacuum excavators and related machinery designed for productivity and durability. In New Zealand, AB Equipment provides nationwide sales, parts, technical expertise and after-sales support.

www.vermeer.com

TRACTO AUSTRALIA

E12

TRACTO Australia supplies trenchless systems for underground pipeline installation and renewal. As a subsidiary of Germany’s TRACTO, it offers horizontal directional drills, soil displacement hammers, pipe-bursting and pipe-ramming equipment, alongside Prime Drilling rigs. Technical advice, operator training, spare parts and after-sales service support contractors across water, gas, telecommunications, utilities and infrastructure markets.

en.tracto.com

GLOBAL TRENCHLESS Global Trenchless is the leading source of news and information for the international trenchless market. As the International Society for Trenchless Technology’s (ISTT) official digital media partner, we give unparallel access to key decision makers in the no-dig sector and cover all projects and technology developments around the world. If your company is involved in trenchless supply chain and you want to grow your brand within the industry, then there’s no better place to market your capabilities.

88 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

globaltrenchlessnews.com

OPTIONX GROUP OptionX Group is an Australian engineering and technology company specialising in advanced vacuum microtunnelling. Its businesses include Edge Underground, OptionX Manufacturing, AdaptX and Riteline, combining equipment development, construction delivery and field expertise. Led by trenchless innovator Stuart Harrison, the group develops accurate, efficient solutions for gravity pipelines in hard rock, mixed ground and water-charged conditions.

MCCONNELL DOWELL CONSTRUCTORS

E06

www.optionxgroup.com.au

H26

McConnell Dowell has delivered innovative engineering and construction solutions for more than 60 years. Its multidisciplinary capability spans building, civil, electrical, fabrication, marine, mechanical, pipelines and rail. Over the past decade, the company has completed 29 tunnelling projects, 15 outfalls and seven marine TBM recoveries, including record-setting Direct Pipe installations at Army Bay and Snells Outfall.

www.mcconnelldowell.com

CREG

G19

China Railway Engineering Equipment Group provides mechanised tunnelling technology and services worldwide. Across 17 production bases, CREG manufactures more than 300 tunnel boring machines annually for hard rock, soft soil and complex geology, in diameters from 2 to 18 metres. The company has exported over 140 TBMs to 36 countries and supports projects with engineering, equipment and responsive technical service.

en.crectbm.com

IMS ROBOTICS IMS Robotics Australia Pty Ltd was established in order to further develop the IMS Robotics Groups’ presence in the Australian and New Zealand markets. The focus of the company concentrates in the areas of mainline cutting robots and UV curing technology. IMS Robotics Group maintains a broad network of reliable and highly professional partner companies to further develop, manufacturer, service and sell its product portfolio.

ims-robotics.com.au

HERRENKNECHT AG

H15

Herrenknecht is a global leader in mechanised tunnelling technology, with experience across more than 6,700 projects. The company supplies tunnel boring machines for all ground conditions and diameters from 0.10 to 19 metres, alongside pipeline installation, shaft and deep-drilling equipment. Around 50 years of expertise and a worldwide service team support approximately 300 jobsites each year.

www.herrenknecht.com/en OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 89

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES All Drill NZ

G15

AMEX SANIVAR

C30

Amiblu

B15

All Drill NZ supports New Zealand’s drilling industry with reliable products, technical expertise and practical training. Founded by John Familton, the company provides onsite and technical support, mud schools, fluid design, drilling fluids and tooling. From its Auckland base, All Drill NZ supplies HDD and civil construction customers nationwide with fit-for-purpose solutions from trusted industry partners.

Amex Sanivar specialises in trenchless pipe rehabilitation, providing fast, costeffective and environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional excavation. The company uses advanced inliner and pipelining technologies to repair and renew damaged pipelines with minimal surface disruption. Its solutions help asset owners restore infrastructure efficiently while reducing construction time, environmental impact and the need for invasive groundwork.

Amiblu designs and supplies glass-fibre reinforced plastic pipes, tanks and fittings for water, wastewater, industrial and energy infrastructure. The company provides reliable products for standard applications and engineered pipeline systems for complex, high-risk or demanding operating conditions. Its durable GRP systems are designed to outperform conventional materials and deliver dependable performance across generations.

www.alldrill.co.nz

www.amex-sanivar.com

www.amiblu.com

Applied Felts

G06

Aquatech Solutions

B05

AusProof

C04

Applied Felts is a vertically integrated manufacturer of polyester needlefelt pipe liners with more than 35 years of experience. The company supplies mainline and lateral liner solutions, glassfelt hybrid materials and calibration hoses for diameters from 50mm to 20,000mm. With operations in the United Kingdom and India, Applied Felts serves pipeline rehabilitation markets with specialised lining materials.

Aquatech Solutions supplies products that improve pipeline resilience, extend asset life and reduce emissions, disruption and safety risks. Its portfolio includes Aquapipe trenchless pressure-pipeline relining, Aqualiner repair sleeves, Aquaseal water-stop sealant, Aquawrap watertight joint sleeves and Aqualocator devices for detecting plastic and metal pipes. The company focuses on practical solutions for maintaining and rehabilitating critical infrastructure.

AusProof is an Australian-owned manufacturer of high- and low-voltage cable couplers, plugs and receptacles for mining, tunnelling and pumping. Established in Gladstone in 1994, the company supplies equipment for hazardous and non-hazardous environments from 660V to 35kV. Its inhouse testing, research and global support network help customers improve safety, uptime and operational efficiency.

appliedfelts.com

aquatech-solutions.com

www.ausproof.com.au

90 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Australia Anliner

I36

Australian Pipelining Supplies

C17

beforeUdig

F18

Anliner specialises in underground pipeline rehabilitation using a range of trenchless methods. The company provides technologies and solutions designed to renew ageing or damaged pipelines while minimising excavation, surface disruption and project impacts.

Australian Pipelining Supplies imports and distributes premium pipe relining equipment and materials across Australia and New Zealand. Established in 2010, the company sources proven international technologies and supports customers with product-specific training, technical assistance and practical implementation guidance. Its long-term service approach helps plumbing and relining businesses adopt new solutions confidently and build sustainable capability.

beforeUdig is New Zealand’s leading safeexcavation notification service. The free online platform connects excavators with utility asset information before ground is broken, helping prevent strikes, protect critical infrastructure and reduce service disruption. Operating nationally since 2008, beforeUdig also promotes damage prevention through workshops, education, Safe Digging Month and collaboration with contractors, councils, utilities and asset owners.

www.ay-trenchless.com

www.pipeliningsupplies.com.au

beforeudig.co.nz

Blick Group

Bohrtec GmbH

Boss Attachments/ LaValley Industries

F06

A40

E02

Blick Group is a specialist drilling fluids company supporting trenchless, HDD, civil, geotechnical, waterwell, mining and exploration projects across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. The company develops its own field-tested drilling fluid range and provides technical advice, product selection and practical support. Blick also supplies tooling and seeks regional partners to expand its solutions.

Bohrtec has designed and manufactured guided and non-guided auger boring machines for more than 40 years. Based in Aachen, Germany, the company supplies practical, cost-effective systems for trenchless sewer construction across varied ground conditions. Its machines can be configured with specialised drilling heads, Front Steer technology and hole openers to match project geology, pipe materials and installation requirements.

Boss Attachments is a leading Australasian distributor of globally recognised equipment brands. The company supplies attachments and specialist solutions across major sectors including construction, forestry and demolition, supported by regional industry knowledge and service.

blick.group

www.bohrtec.com/en/index.html

bossattachments.co.nz

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 91

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES Bucher Municipal

H16

BurrowTech

D22

CANGZHOU GREAT DRILL BITS

D12

Bucher Municipal is a global manufacturer of equipment for street sweeping, sewer and drainage maintenance, refuse collection and waste management. Its portfolio includes sweepers, vacuum and jetting units, CCTV inspection systems and low- or zero-emission technologies. In New Zealand, AB Equipment provides nationwide sales, parts and service support for the Bucher Municipal range.

BurrowTech supplies proven trenchless pipeline rehabilitation technology across Australia and New Zealand. Its range includes liners, UV curing systems, pipe plugs, flumes and related equipment, supported by practical local expertise. The company also provides tailored design, consulting and training services to help customers address complex rehabilitation projects and turn failing pipelines into reliable assets.

Cangzhou Great Drill Bits is a Chinese manufacturer of PDC bits, tricone bits, downhole motors, HDD tools and foundation tooling. Founded in 2010, the company operates an 86,000m² facility with capacity exceeding 10,000 bits annually. API Spec 7-1 and ISO certified, it supplies major energy companies and exports products to more than 30 countries.

www.buchermunicipal.com/au/en

burrowtech.co.nz

www.pdcbit.net

CDE

F14

CDS HDD DESIGN

D03

Channeline

D30

CDE designs waste recycling systems that clean and dewater hydro-excavation waste, road sweepings, wastewater sludge and tankered waste. Its solutions reduce disposal volumes and costs, recover reusable sand and aggregates, improve handling and transport, and support environmental compliance. By separating solids and liquids, CDE helps operators protect waterways and convert difficult waste streams into valuable resources.

CDS HDD Design is a specialist New Zealand engineering consultancy focused exclusively on horizontal directional drilling design and constructability. Its chartered engineers combine technical expertise with more than 120 years of collective construction experience. Services include alignment design, hydrofracture risk assessment, stress analysis and construction support, helping utilities, asset owners, consultants and contractors reduce risk and improve project delivery.

Channeline designs and manufactures bespoke structural GRP lining systems for trenchless rehabilitation. Operating since the early 1980s, the company creates circular and non-circular solutions in virtually any shape or size for sewers, tunnels, culverts, stormwater assets and other buried infrastructure. Its custom systems extend asset life and provide durable, sustainable alternatives to replacement.

www.cdegroup.com

www.cdsdesign.co.nz

channeline.com

92 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

ConInnova

D05

Denso (Australia)

G05

Derrick Corporation

E21

ConInnova is a construction innovation company designed and operated by chartered construction managers, cost managers, and quantity surveyors. Our mission is to redefine how construction costs are managed by combining professional expertise with tailored, cloud-based software solutions. Not just services. Not just technology. A connected approach built for clarity, control, and better project outcomes.

Denso Australia manufactures and supplies corrosion- and chemical-resistant coatings and linings for steel, concrete and timber. A subsidiary of Winn & Coales International, the company develops tailored protection systems for demanding environments. Its quality-controlled products are designed for long service life, with some solutions providing more than 30 years of maintenance-free protection.

Derrick Corporation is a family-owned global manufacturer of fine-separation and slurry dewatering technology. With 75 years of innovation, its equipment supports civil underground construction by improving drilling-fluid recycling, solids control and environmental performance. The Hyperpool GT shaker and Pyramid Screen technology help contractors remove solids efficiently, reduce waste and improve operational profitability.

www.coninnova.co.nz

densoaustralia.com.au

derrick.com

Digital Control Incorporated

G11

Ditch Witch

I11

DOWN2EARTH

H03

Digital Control Incorporated develops advanced locating and tracking systems for horizontal directional drilling. Founded by engineers John Mercer and Peter Hambling, the family-owned company has driven HDD innovation for more than 30 years. Its ARES platform builds on Falcon technology with AI-powered interference analysis, faster processing and real-time bore-path scanning to help crews locate confidently in challenging conditions.

Ditch Witch manufactures underground utility construction equipment, including trenchers, horizontal directional drills, vacuum excavators and mini skid steers. Founded in 1949, the company provides integrated equipment, tooling and support designed to improve safety, productivity and profitability across utility and civil construction projects.

Down2earth supplies new and refurbished microtunnelling and pipe-jacking systems to contractors worldwide. The company sells, rents, services and repairs complete machines and individual components, including jacking frames, cutting wheels, slurry pumps, guidance systems and separation equipment. Its specialist team also provides spare parts, commissioning, troubleshooting, operational support and consultancy for contractors, engineers and designers.

www.digital-control.com

www.ditchwitch.com

www.down2earth.com

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 93

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES Drillto Trenchless

H17

EasyDrill Limited

B18

Empire Infrastructure

F01

Drillto Trenchless designs and manufactures horizontal directional drilling rigs, drill rods and tooling. Founded in China in 2000, the company operates production bases in Wuxi and Shenzhen and provides equipment packages, training, technical guidance and maintenance. Drillto has developed hundreds of models and patents, exports to more than 40 countries and focuses on making underground pipeline installation easier.

EasyDrill manufactures the compact ED10G horizontal directional drill for installing underground utilities. Developed since 2000 and owned by Fred Watts since 2010, the award-winning lightweight unit offers power, versatility and affordability for drainlayers, civil contractors, plumbers and utility installers. Based in Auckland, EasyDrill supplies drill packages, tooling and parts through an international reseller network.

Empire Infrastructure supplies pipe systems for trenchless installations across Australia and New Zealand. Its range includes concrete, GRP, hybrid and noncircular pipes, supported by fast delivery directly to project sites.

www.drilltozt.com

www.easydrill.co.nz

empireinfrastructure.com.au

Frontline Machinery

G04

Future Proof Solutions

F23

Ghella

J27

Frontline Machinery imports premium truck-mounted vacuum equipment for air excavation, hydro excavation, and sewer and stormwater maintenance. Established in New Zealand in 2013, the company represents brands including RSP, Jurop, MÜller, Rioned and USB-AUS. It also stocks accessories and spare parts, combining specialist product knowledge with local support for New Zealand operating conditions.

Future Proof Solutions is a specialist design team delivering practical, constructible trenchless solutions for pipelines, conduits and tunnelling projects. Working with contractors, principals and asset owners, the company develops trenchless geometries supported by specificationcompliant engineering. Its combination of established design principles and handson construction experience helps clients make informed decisions and progress complex crossings with confidence.

Founded in 1894, Ghella delivers major public infrastructure projects with a specialisation in underground excavation and tunnelling. The company has constructed more than 130 tunnels and over 1,000 kilometres of highways, railways and metro systems. Active in Australia since 2010 and New Zealand since 2018, Ghella contributes global expertise to some of the region’s largest infrastructure projects.

www.frontlinemachinery.com

www.futureproofsolutions.com.au

ghella.com/en

94 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Global Survey

G09

GN SOLIDS AUSTRALIA & TRENCHMATE

G18

Guideline Geo

I47

Global Survey supplies advanced geospatial technology from Leica Geosystems and IDS GeoRadar. Its ground-penetrating radar solutions support accurate, noninvasive detection and mapping of underground services, structural voids and hidden infrastructure. The company’s technical specialists help customers improve subsurface investigations, asset inspections, verification and onsite safety through high-resolution data and practical application support.

GN Solids Australia supports customers across Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific with solids-control equipment, spare parts and technical service. Established in Brisbane in 2023 after serving the region from China since 2009, the company works with local distributors and authorised service providers to deliver responsive support backed by GN’s manufacturing operations in China.

Guideline Geo Australia provides geophysical solutions across Australia and New Zealand, including Swedishmanufactured MALÅ ground-penetrating radar and ABEM instruments. Based in Sydney, the company offers equipment sales, rentals, training, servicing, technical support and application advice. Its local team helps customers select and operate fit-for-purpose technology for utilities, infrastructure, environmental, engineering and subsurface investigations.

globalsurvey.co.nz

www.gnsolidsaustralia.com

guidelinegeo.com

Hadlee & Brunton Limited

Hebei Huayuan Science and Industry

Hynds Pipes Systems Limited

D22

J44

B11

Hadlee & Brunton is a New Zealand contractor with more than 120 years of history and specialist expertise in trenchless design, construction, and pipe and manhole rehabilitation. Its integrated model combines owned equipment with in-house engineering from concept through delivery. Fulton Hogan acquired a 70 per cent shareholding in 2025, while the Brunton family retained 30 per cent and continues to lead daily operations.

Hebei Huayuan Science and Industry provides engineering solutions, equipment and technical services for complex trenchless works. Founded in 1993, the company operates across oil and gas, petrochemical, civil aviation, municipal infrastructure, electricity and telecommunications. Its experience includes major Chinese infrastructure programmes such as the South-North Water Transfer and West-East Gas Pipeline projects.

Hynds Pipe Systems is a family-owned New Zealand supplier of civil construction and water infrastructure solutions. With more than 50 years in business, the company combines nationwide distribution, technical innovation and bespoke engineering. Its engineering team works with consultants, contractors and councils to address complex threewaters challenges and support resilient infrastructure across New Zealand.

hadleeandbrunton.co.nz

hycrossing.com/en

www.hynds.co.nz

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 95

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES IMPREG (AUSTRALIA)

I34

Kerry Drainage & Civil

D01

KOR Equipment Solutions

I21

IMPREG manufactures CIPP liners for trenchless pipe and sewer rehabilitation using UV-curing technology. The company develops high-performance liner systems for complex projects and a wide range of diameters, helping contractors renew infrastructure quickly without excavation. Its focus on advanced manufacturing, technical performance and reliable support has established IMPREG as a leading global UV-CIPP supplier.

Kerry Drainage & Civil is an Aucklandbased civil and three-waters contractor established in 1973. The family-owned company delivers drainage, civil construction and specialist trenchless works, including horizontal directional drilling, pit drilling, microtunnelling, pipe jacking, bursting and slip-lining. It undertakes self-performed projects and supports main contractors as a specialist trenchless subcontractor.

KOR Equipment Solutions supplies industrial equipment and support designed to keep customer operations running. Representing brands including Cappellotto, Schwarze, Gerotto, Falch and Vanguard, the company delivers vacuum loading, drain cleaning, hydro excavation, sweeping and robotic technologies across New Zealand. Its service centres, mobile technicians and stocked parts provide responsive nationwide support.

impreg-australia.com

kdcivil.co.nz

kor.com.au

KRE Engineering Services

B12

kwik-ZIP Spacers

G07

March Cato

C27

KRE Engineering Services is an Australianowned manufacturer and supplier of trenchless pipeline rehabilitation equipment with more than 35 years of experience. The company produces robotic cutting systems and distributes SAVA packers, plugs, resins and accessories. Local service, repairs, training, vehicle development and global technology partnerships enable KRE to provide complete rehabilitation solutions across Australia and international markets.

kwik-ZIP manufactures thermoplastic spacer and centraliser systems for pipeline, trenchless, drilling, civil and ground-engineering applications. Its 155, GT, HD, HDX and HDXT ranges support water wells, rock bolts, soil nails, casing and heavy pipeline installations. The ISO 9001-certified company holds multiple Australian water and utility approvals and distributes products across Australia, New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom.

March Cato is an award-winning New Zealand civil engineering contractor specialising in three-waters infrastructure. Established in 1997, the company delivers open-trench pipelines, trenchless construction, rehabilitation, pump stations, microtunnelling and pipe jacking. In 2025, it expanded its rehabilitation capability through March Cato Lining, adding Spiraline, CIPP, LJR and patch repair services.

www.kre.com.au

www.kwikzip.com

marchcato.co.nz

96 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Maskell-Subor

J19

Matsol

D09

Minitap

H28

Maskell designs and manufactures industrial fibreglass process plant and equipment for the Australasian water and wastewater sector. With more than 55 years of experience, the company supplies engineered FRP and GRP solutions for demanding infrastructure and industrial applications.

Matsol is an Australian-owned specialist designing integrated materials washing, classification, dewatering and watertreatment systems across Australia and New Zealand. Its tailored plants recover sand and aggregates from hydroexcavated mud, contaminated soils, dredged material and other complex waste streams. Matsol also treats contaminants including hydrocarbons, heavy metals, nutrients and PFAS, supporting water reuse, compliance and circular-economy outcomes.

Minitap is a compact live-tapping solution developed for confined metropolitan verge environments. Designed and manufactured in Western Australia, the system enables large offtake connections in standard low-pressure utility networks. Its compact format is engineered to improve usability, safety and cost of ownership for contractors working in restricted spaces.

www.maskell.co.nz

matsol.com.au

www.minitap.net

NordiTube AUS

C14

Nuflow No Dig Solutions

H08

Pipe Magic

D08

NordiTube Technologies provides trenchless pipeline rehabilitation systems and materials for water, wastewater, district heating, gas and industrial pressure networks. With more than 40 years of experience, its portfolio includes CIPP, inserted hose and spiral-wound solutions. NordiTube AUS serves as the Asia-Pacific hub, providing regional customers with materials, application expertise and onsite technical support.

Nuflow Australasia provides no-dig pipe rehabilitation solutions across Australia and New Zealand. Serving residential, commercial, civil and infrastructure markets, the company uses proven systems to renew underground pipelines with minimal disruption, lower environmental impact and reduced lifecycle cost. Local manufacturing, engineering expertise and a network of more than 40 franchise partners support consistent regional delivery.

Pipe Magic is an Australian manufacturer and supplier of plumbing, drainage and underground infrastructure maintenance equipment. Founded in 2018, the company serves contractors, utilities and municipalities with pipe relining systems, CCTV crawlers, drain-cleaning tools, watermain inspection technology, manhole rehabilitation products, resins, coatings and specialist chemicals. Many products are manufactured in Queensland and distributed across Australia and New Zealand.

www.norditube.com

nuflow.net

pipemagic.com.au

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 97

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES Pipe Technologies

E07

PipeWorks

C14

Pneuvibe

F16

PipeTech is a New Zealand-owned trenchless company operating nationwide since 2003. Its services include uPVC relining, CIPP and patch lining, and CCTV inspection for water, wastewater and stormwater assets. The company also distributes ASOE pressure-pipe lining systems in New Zealand, providing closefit solutions for pipelines from DN50 to DN1600 with long installation pulls and minimal equipment.

PipeWorks is a New Zealand trenchless pipelining and asset rehabilitation specialist with more than 25 years of experience. The company provides cost-effective, lower-carbon solutions for renewing ageing potable water, wastewater and stormwater networks without the disruption associated with open excavation.

Pneuvibe is an Australian manufacturer of pneumatic earth-piercing tools for trenchless utility and civil construction. Engineered and built in Melbourne, its products draw on more than 40 years of experience and are designed for demanding Australian and New Zealand conditions. The company supports customers with technical guidance, servicing and locally available spare parts.

www.pipetech.net.nz

www.norditube.com

www.pneuvibe.com.au

Polypipe GmbH

B14

Pro Line

D07

ProKASRO

H16

Polypipe develops equipment and materials for non-invasive pipe coating and rehabilitation. Its RabbitCoater 2.0 combines spray and brush technology for consistent coating of common pipe materials from DN40 to DN200. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the system improves precision, material efficiency and production performance while reducing downtime across in-house drainage applications.

Pro Line supplies UV-CIPP liners and trenchless rehabilitation technologies across Australia and New Zealand. Its portfolio includes liners, spray-lining systems, structural geopolymer solutions and products for pipelines, manholes and associated infrastructure. Backed by technical expertise and dependable service, the company connects contractors and asset owners with proven systems designed for durable rehabilitation and minimal disruption.

ProKASRO is a German manufacturer of trenchless pipeline rehabilitation equipment. Since 2000, the company has developed robotic cutting and reinstatement systems, UV-curing equipment, CCTV inspection technology and customised rehabilitation vehicles. Its engineering-led solutions enable contractors and asset owners to repair underground infrastructure efficiently, safely and with minimal excavation.

polypipe.de/en

www.prolinetrenchless.com

www.prokasro.de/en

98 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

R&R McClure Excavations

D04

Recore

A14

RedZone Robotics

D29

R&R McClure Excavations delivers specialist trenchless renewal and grounding solutions. Its encapsulation Pipe Re-Line (EPR) process safely renews asbestos pipes by encapsulating the existing asset and installing a standardsized HDPE pipe with full design life and capacity. The company also uses horizontal directional drilling to install earthing conductors in favourable ground layers while measuring target resistance in real time.

Recore provides UV pipe relining and CCTV inspection services for New Zealand pressure mains, wastewater and stormwater networks. Its trenchless methods restore pipeline structural integrity without excavation, reducing disruption and extending asset life. An engineer-led team and advanced equipment support practical, futurefocused solutions for councils and contractors managing ageing infrastructure.

RedZone Robotics combines specialised robotic inspection technology and software to help wastewater utilities understand asset condition and reduce failure risk. Its platforms range from autonomous robots for small-diameter pipelines to Profiler3D multi-sensor inspection for pipelines up to six metres. The company delivers accurate, actionable data that supports maintenance prioritisation, rehabilitation planning and confident asset-management decisions.

www.rrmcclure.com.au

www.recore.co.nz

redzone.com

RIX Group

SANIPRO

Schauenburg Maschinenund Anlagen-Bau GmbH

J27

B20

G01

The RIX Group is an Australian specialist ground-engineering contractor with more than 25 years of experience. Its in-house capabilities include anchoring, slope stabilisation, shotcrete, piling, ground improvement, underground services, rope access, steel fabrication and asset maintenance. Following Ghella’s majority investment in 2024, the businesses combine local ground-engineering expertise with global tunnelling and majorinfrastructure capability.

SANIPRO Australia is part of a familyowned international trenchless technology group operating across Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Asia. With more than 25 years of operational experience, the company supplies CIPP systems, UV-curing technology, manhole rehabilitation equipment and robotic cutters. Its Brisbane and Sydney facilities provide materials, training, servicing and ongoing technical support.

Schauenburg Maschinen- und Anlagen-Bau supplies separation plants for tunnelling, microtunnelling, horizontal directional drilling and diaphragm-wall construction. Its systems treat bentonite flushing fluids and slurries, maintaining required rheological properties while improving waste handling and disposal. Decades of international experience support continuously optimised solutions designed for sustainable, economical operation under demanding project conditions.

www.therixgroup.com.au

saniproaustralia.com

schauenburg-mab.com

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 99

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES Sewer Equipment Company (Aust) - SECA

C23

Spiecapag trading as HDI Lucas

C21

Sub Surface Detection

J46

Sewer Equipment Company Australia supplies equipment for cleaning, testing, inspecting and rehabilitating pipes, sewers and drains. With more than 50 years of experience, SECA provides product selection, service, technical support and training. Its broad range gives pipeline and drainage professionals a single source for equipment, maintenance expertise and productivity solutions.

HDI Lucas, a Spiecapag Australia subsidiary and sister company of HDI France, specialises in horizontal directional drilling. Its trailer- and crawler-mounted rigs provide pulling capacities from 35 to 400 tonnes for small and large pipeline installations up to DN1400. Decades of global project experience, in-house engineering and complete drilling spreads support complex crossings with reliable, adaptable equipment.

Sub Surface Detection is a New Zealand specialist in underground utility locating and mapping. Its team of Certloc-certified locators delivers electromagnetic induction and ground-penetrating radar surveys across Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Northland. Advanced multi-array GPR technology provides fast, high-resolution subsurface data to improve planning, safety, accuracy and risk management on civil and infrastructure projects.

seca.com.au

www.spiecapag.com.au

www.subsurfacedetection.co.nz

Suzhour Kensor Instrument Technology

G17

Suzhou Kensor Instrument Technology, part of Suzhou Keyi Group, develops intelligent steering instruments for trenchless pipeline construction. Its innovations include a wireless geomagnetic steering tool designed to overcome interference from underground metallic networks while improving positioning accuracy and construction efficiency. The wider group integrates equipment research and manufacturing, engineering services, electric horizontal directional drills, mud pumps, range-extending power systems, equipment electrification and leasing. Supported by extensive industry patents and technical expertise, Kensor and its group companies are advancing greener, smarter and more efficient trenchless construction worldwide.

100 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

SWP Australia

I04

SYSTRA

F03

SWP Australia supplies technologies for new pipe installation and pipeline rehabilitation. Its systems use extruded PVC profiles and spiral-wound machinery to produce durable solutions for underground infrastructure renewal and construction.

SYSTRA Australia and New Zealand combines global systems expertise with local infrastructure delivery. Drawing on 65 years of international experience, its Trenchless Division provides project development, design, procurement and delivery specialists for complex underground works. The company supports utility asset owners, contractors and designers with integrated engineering capability and practical regional experience.

swpaustralia.com.au

www.systra.com/australia

TCEN Engineering Equipment

G03

TDG Environmental

F10

UDM Group

J46

TCEN Engineering Equipment manufactures tools for pipe-jacking machines, cutting wheels, tunnel boring machines, shield machines, mining and construction. The company develops specialist cutters and components for trenchless and underground excavation applications, supported by manufacturing expertise and application-focused product design.

TDG Environmental provides environmental, pipeline and infrastructure services across New Zealand and Australia. With more than 35 years of experience, the company delivers CCTV inspection, hydrojetting, condition assessment, CIPP and UV lining, fold-and-form systems, sectional repairs and large-diameter rehabilitation. Its UtilityTrack platform connects inspection data with renewal planning and ongoing asset maintenance.

UDM Group is an Australian subsurface utility detection and mapping specialist. The company provides groundpenetrating radar, utility locating and geospatial surveying using advanced systems including IDS GeoRadar Stream DP and Stream UP. Its services support infrastructure planning, construction risk reduction and asset management while aligning with Australian standards such as AS5488 and WSAA requirements.

www.tcencutters.com

tdgenvironmental.com

udmgroup.com.au

United Tunneling

Universal Underground Ltd (UUL)

H12

Vacvator

A28

United Tunneling is a New Zealand trenchless specialist founded in 2014. The company delivers microtunnelling and pipeline installations from 150mm to three metres in diameter, particularly in deep, constrained or complex environments. Its precision methods minimise surface disruption and support reliable utility and infrastructure outcomes for councils, developers, contractors and engineers nationwide.

Universal Underground provides horizontal directional drilling and trenchless utility installation across New Zealand. Its designand-build capability supports gas, water and sewer pipelines where open excavation is impractical. Advanced equipment and experienced personnel enable the company to deliver tailored solutions for complex sites while minimising surface disturbance and environmental impact.

Vacvator is an Australian-owned manufacturer of vacuum excavation equipment based in Goulburn, New South Wales. Established in 2006, the company designs and builds hydro-excavation, dryvacuum and jetting systems for civil, utility and infrastructure customers. Its operatorfocused equipment is supported across Australia and New Zealand by technical service, spare parts and product expertise.

www.unitedtunneling.co.nz

www.uul.co.nz

vacvator.com.au

OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 101

INTERNATIONAL NO-DIG AUCKLAND - COMPANY PROFILES VIP-WECO NO-DIG Pipe Repair & Sealing System

B16

Vortex / BKP Berolina

F02

Warren Environmental

D27

VIP-Polymers manufactures the VIPWECO no-dig sealing system for potable water and drainage pipelines. Designed for diameters from 185mm to more than 6,000mm, the low-profile mechanical seal repairs leaking joints and radial cracks from inside the pipe. Installations can take as little as 30 minutes and accommodate working pressures up to 28bar.

Vortex Companies provides trenchless rehabilitation technologies for water, sewer and industrial infrastructure, offering lower-disruption alternatives to traditional excavation and replacement. BKP Berolina manufactures liner systems for trenchless renewal of wastewater and district-energy pipelines. Together, their technologies support durable, environmentally responsible repair of ageing underground assets.

Warren Environmental manufactures highperformance epoxy coatings for water and wastewater infrastructure. Its single-coat, zero-VOC systems rehabilitate and protect pipelines, tanks, manholes and other assets against corrosion and deterioration. The company’s solutions are designed to extend service life, reduce maintenance requirements and minimise disruption while supporting environmentally responsible infrastructure renewal.

www.vip-weco.com

bkp-berolina.de/en

www.warrenenviro.com

Wuxi Double Horse Drilling Tools

B21

Youngman Richardson

D14

Wuxi Double Horse Drilling Tools manufactures HDD drill rods, core drilling tools, anchor drilling tools and waterwell equipment. Founded in 2006, the company operates a 20,000 m² facility in Wuxi, China, and exports to 45 countries. Its quality systems include API and ISO certifications, university research partnerships, nondestructive testing and continued investment in manufacturing automation.

Youngman Richardson is a New Zealandowned supplier of equipment for civil construction, utilities and infrastructure. With more than 45 years of experience, the company provides air-vacuum excavation, compaction, pumping and support equipment designed to improve efficiency and reduce underground utility-strike risk. Nationwide service, technical expertise and established global brands support customers across New Zealand.

www.dhdt.com.cn

www.yrco.co.nz

102 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

ASTT

Secretary’s corner OCTOBER 2026 Trevor Gosatti New Members On behalf of the ASTT, I extend a warm welcome to the following new members: Gold Corporate Members (24 Month) – Australia • Underground Experts (Tyler Hall) Gold Corporate Members – New Zealand • Waipa Civil (Jo Comins) Silver Corporate Members (24 Month) – New Zealand • Mott MacDonald (Blair Telfer) Silver Corporate Members (24 Month) – Australia • Elaflex Pacific Pty Ltd (Mario Iglic) Silver Corporate Members – Australia • Australian Pipelining Supplies (Darren Tickell) • Derrick Australia Pty Ltd (Saqib Khatib) • Drainchem Australia (Marshall Horne) Individual Members – Australia • Bilal Alaraj from CSEDS • Matthew Hickey from GHD • Andy Kimpton from Kimpton Advisory Services Australia Individual Members – New Zealand • Nathan Wall from Morphum Environmental Ltd • Yasheen Bissoon from Tauranga City Council 2026 ISTT International No-Dig in Auckland, New Zealand As we head full speed towards the International No-Dig 2026 Auckland in New Zealand to be held from October 28-29, 2026, at the newly built New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland, we look forward to the many highlights to occur at this highly anticipated event.

These include: • Celebration of the ISTT 40th Anniversary with keynotes speakers, forums and more. • A great technical program of international and local papers and speakers. • A large exhibition of international and local trenchless goods and services • The announcement of the ISTT Awards winners, celebrating the “best in the world” trenchless projects and innovation. • A great social program to network with local and international trenchless contacts. The link to get information on the event can be found here: https://no-dignz.com/ The ASTT is hosting this event on behalf of the International Society for Trenchless Technology and it promises to be a popular event for international visitors and local members. ISTT to Celebrate 40th Year Anniversary at Auckland A major feature of the International NoDig Auckland will be the celebration of the 40th year anniversary of the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT) that commenced in 1986. A number of events are planned to highlight the anniversary including : • a keynote speech from ISTT President, Dec Downey • a special edition 40th Anniversary book on the history of the ISTT and the trenchless industry • a forum of past luminaries of the ISTT discussiong the history of the ISTT, • and much more. ASTT Advocating for Better Recognition of Trenchless Occupations ASTT is currently preparing a submission to the Australian Bureau of Statistics as part of the OSCA 2027 occupational classification review. The purpose of the submission is to seek better recognition of the specialist occupations that exist across the trenchless technology

industry, including roles associated with horizontal directional drilling, pipeline rehabilitation, inspection and condition assessment, microtunnelling and pipe jacking. At present, many trenchless workers are captured under broader occupational categories that do not accurately reflect the specialist skills, responsibilities and technologies involved in their work. This can make the trenchless workforce difficult to identify in government statistics and can affect workforce planning, skills development, training pathways and, potentially, skilled migration settings. ASTT’s objective is to develop a clear National Trenchless Occupational Framework and provide government with evidence showing where new occupations, recognised specialisations or changes to existing classifications are justified. To support the submission, ASTT will be seeking input from members on workforce numbers, job titles, recruitment difficulties, skills, qualifications, training requirements and future workforce demand. This is an important opportunity to ensure that the occupations supporting Australia’s trenchless infrastructure sector are properly recognised and understood. ASTT encourages members to support the process and provide information when requested.

Trevor Gosatti Secretary, ASTT OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 103

ASTT

Corporate Members Gold Corporate Members GHD Pty Ltd Herrenknecht AG Iplex J&R Contracting Limited Kellogg Brown & Root Michels Trenchless Pty Ltd

OptionX Group Orion Consulting R & R McClure Excavations Systra Bamser Tunnelling Solutions Underground Experts

Utilities Infrastructure Veolia Waipa Civil WSP New Zealand Ltd Water Corporation Witt Consulting

Future-Proof Solutions GCE Contractors Pty Ltd Golder Hard Metals Australia Pty Limited HDI Lucas Hydroflow Civil Hynds Pipe Systems Ltd Independent Sewer Consulting Services Pty Ltd Interflow Pty Ltd JB Trenchless Pty Ltd kwik-ZIP Spacers L P Pipe Civil LKL International Pty Ltd March Cato Ltd Maxibor Australia Pty Limited McBerns Innovative Solutions McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd McMillen Jacobs Associates (NZ) Mott MacDonald Mudex Mullane Trenchless Pipeline Solutions Pty Ltd NordiTube AUS Pty Ltd Nu Flow Technologies 2000 Pty Ltd Pattle Delamore Partners Ltd Pezzimenti Trenchless Pty Ltd Pipe Core Pty Ltd Pipe Doctor Australia Pty Ltd Pipe Technologies Ltd Pipeline Drillers Group Pipe Pro Drilling PLUMBLOGIC Prime Creative Media Prime Horizontal Pty Ltd

Professional Tools Australia Pro Line Qalchek Pty Ltd Qenos Pty Ltd Raedlinger Primus Line Pty Ltd Ravago NZ Ltd Ready Group Pty Ltd Rob Carr Pty Ltd Rose Atkins Rimmer (Infrastructure) Pty Ltd SA Water SASTTI Joint Venture SEKISUI Rib Loc Australia Pty Ltd Sewer Equipment Company (Aust) Smythe Contractors Limited STRABAG Subterra Civil Sydney Water TDG Environmental (NZ) TRACTO-TECHNIK Australia Pty Ltd Trenchless Advisor Pty Ltd Tunnel Vision (WA) Pty Ltd UEA Pty Ltd United Tunneling Ltd Universal Underground Vacvator Vacuum Truck Supplies Vector Magnetics Vertical Horizonz Australia Veolia (NZ) WA Utilities Warren Smith & Partners Yarra Valley Water

Watercare Services Ltd Greater Western Water

South East Water UnityWater

Silver Corporate Members AECOM New Zealand Limited AHD Trenchless Applied Felts Arcardis Australia Pacific Pty Ltd Arup Australia Atteris Pty Ltd Aurecon Australian Pipeline Management Pty Ltd Australian Pipelining Supplies BG Risk Solutions Blick Group Bortec Laser Bore Pty Ltd Boss Attachments NZ Ltd CC Group CDS New Zealand Ltd Channeline International David Moss Group D.J. Mac Cormick Contractors DCS Manufacturing Pty Ltd Derrick Australia Pty Ltd Digital Control - Australia Diversified Services Australia Dormway Pty Ltd Drainchem Australia Draintech Solutions Dunstans E&CC Edge Underground Elaflex Pacific Pty Ltd ELB Equipment Pty Ltd Empire Infrastructure Envirovac Industries Pty Ltd FJA Consulting Engineers FST Technologies Pty Ltd

Asset Owners APA Group Auckland Council Barwon Water 104 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

Image: Prime Creative Media

ASTT

No-Dig Down Under 2025.

About the ASTT

he Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology (ASTT) is a non-profit organisation comprising of members throughout Australia and New Zealand. The successful establishment of the trenchless industry in Australasia has been supported and promoted by the peak industry organisation, the ASTT, since it was founded in 1991. The society works tirelessly to promote the use of trenchless technology in Australasia, lobbying government and client organisations to highlight the advantages of using trenchless technology and the benefits of training for industry. Membership is open to all who are concerned with the provision of gas, water, sewerage, drainage, roads, telecommunications and electrical services. ASTT membership provides trenchless professionals the tools and services they need to be better informed and better connected in this industry. The ASTT is part of the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT), an affiliation of societies in more than 30 countries worldwide. Membership applications The ASTT currently offers seven levels of membership available to residents of Australia

Membership Category

and New Zealand or anyone who is also a financial member of an existing ISTTaffiliated society. The benefits of membership depending upon category Up to 10 people from your organisation may be included in your membership and are entitled to receive the below benefits: • Acknowledgment of your company in every edition of the Trenchless Australasia magazine • An annual subscription to Trenchless Australasia magazine (six issues per year) • An annual subscription to ISTT’s Trenchless Works • A company listing in the Australasian Trenchless Directory (print and digital) • The opportunity to promote your membership of the association by including the ASTT logo on your business communications and website • Access to guidelines and standards • Discount rates (normally 10 per cent) at national conferences and exhibitions • Discount rates (normally 10 per cent) at international conferences and exhibitions • Discount rates (normally 10 per cent) at trenchless forums

• The opportunity to become involved in our Special Interest Groups, which are technical divisions of the ASTT representing specific trenchless sectors • Special offers and links with international organisations, including the ISTT • The opportunity to nominate for ASTT and ISTT awards • Free access to ISTT past conference proceedings • A communication network to keep abreast of the advancement of the science and practices of trenchless technology throughout the world • Discounted rates at international NoDigs and national events, including NoDig Down Under How to apply Visit the ASTT website on www.astt.com.au and check out the membership benefits that apply for each category. Membership requests will be emailed to the ASTT for processing. You will receive an invoice based on the information you supply. Acceptance does not take effect until payment is received in full. For more information, visit www.astt.com.au

12 Month Membership Rates

24 Month Membership Rates

Gold Corporate

$945.00

$1512.00

Silver Corporate

$540.00

$864.00

Asset Owners

$405.00

$648.00

Individual

$135.00

N/A

Young Professional

$100.00

N/A

Retired Individual

$100.00

N/A

Tertiary Institutions (Students)

$40.00

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OCTOBER 2026 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA 105

HIRE NOON

People on the move Trenchless Australasia is tracking new appointments in the Australia and New Zealand trenchless industries. Read all about the latest people moves.

Peter Ree

Andrew Jackson

Warwick Tidswell

Strategy and Growth Manager Saunders

Regional General Manager, New Zealand Pacific GHD

General Manager for Queensland Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure

Peter Ree has jointed engineering, construction and industrial asset services company, Saunders as a Strategy and Growth Manager to bolster its Water & Civil division. With more than 24 years of experience across infrastructure strategy, business development and multidisciplinary project delivery, Ree is expected to play a key role in shaping Saunders’ Water and Civil pipeline, by deepening client and industry relationships and positioning the business for long-term growth across the sector. Ree’s resume confirms previous roles at Ventia and GHD. “I’m looking forward to joining Saunders at an exciting time for the Water and Civil teams, building on the strong platform already in place, strengthening client partnerships and helping create the next phase of sustainable growth,”he said.

Image: Saunders

Based in Auckland, Jackson will lead GHD’s business across New Zealand and the Pacific, with a focus on strengthening client relationships, supporting growth and diversification, and connecting local teams with the capability of the company’s broader global network. His background in major project delivery, alliance leadership and multidisciplinary operations will support GHD’s focus on bringing the right technical, advisory and delivery teams together around client and community needs. Jackson brings more than 25 years of experience with GHD and has held senior leadership roles across operations, governance, project delivery and business growth.“Aotearoa and the Pacific are home to strong communities, distinct local priorities and significant infrastructure opportunities,” Jackson said.

Image: GHD

Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure has welcomed Warwick Tidswell to the team. With more than three decades of experience in construction across infrastructure, utilities and power generation, he will head up Queensland operations for the company. Previous to Abergeldie, Tidswell was Project Director at CPB Contractors. He also worked at APA Group as a General Manager in its construction division. Considered a strategic leader, Tidswell is passionate about developing a culture that cultivates continuous improvement and innovation. “It is fantastic to have Warwick join the business. His experience and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to build our brand and deliver for our clients in Queensland,” said Chief Executive Officer Mark Bruzzone.

Image: Abergeldie

If your company has recently employed a new person within your business you would like profiled in ‘People on the move’, send details of the career news alongside a high-res photo to William Craske at william.craske@primecreative.com.au 106 TRENCHLESS AUSTRALASIA OCTOBER 2026

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