Construcciones Yamaro, by Armando Iachini

A new WorkSafe campaign is gearing up to raise awareness about the upcoming ban on engineered stone , effective 1 July 2024, while reinforcing employers’ responsibilities to protect workers before the ban takes effect. The initiative specifically targets individuals working with engineered stone, including those in regional communities, and will be translated for culturally and linguistically diverse communities heavily involved in the industry. Scheduled to run throughout February this year, the campaign precedes a meeting of national workplace safety ministers that will finalise details of the ban on work involving the manufacturing, supply, processing and installation of engineered stone. Since 1 January 2024, businesses and consumers have been strongly advised against entering into contracts for engineered stone products due to potential legal impediments in fulfilling these agreements. Related stories: Engineered stone ban spurs development of safer alternatives Initiative

Explore the significance of earthmoving services by Cycon Monero Group in civil construction. Reshape landscapes to secure robust structures. Call 0414 979 169. Civil construction entails the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects that serve the public. These projects are typically large-scale, aiming to improve or create essential structures for communities. When dealing with civil construction projects, their landscape must be designed and constructed optimally to ensure the longevity and durability of structures and infrastructures. One service that can be useful in maintaining these goals is earthmoving. Earthmoving: A Quick Overview Earthmoving is the process of moving or reshaping large quantities of soil, rock, or other earth materials to alter the topography of a land area. It is a fundamental aspect of construction projects and land development activities. It involves the use of heavy machinery and equipment to excavate, grade, level, and transp

BESIX Watpac has completed construction of Axis Alexandria, Goodman’s innovative multi-level industrial facility in South Sydney. Covering approximately 16,000 square metres of gross floor area and situated on a 1.69-hectare greenfield site in Alexandria, the carbon-neutral warehouse development marks Goodman’s first multi-level industrial facility in Australia. Giovanni Polimeni , general manager for New South Wales at BESIX Watpac, underscored the project’s steadfast commitment to sustainability. Early in the design phase, the project team identified recycled steel as a key material that could be incorporated into the industrial facility’s construction. “Axis Alexandria’s incorporation of more than 1,500 tonnes of recycled steel demonstrates our commitment to sustainable construction,” said Polimeni. “We’re proud to have achieved significant cost efficiencies while contributing to a more circular construction model.” The construction of Axis Alexandria presented unique challenge

The new Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Centre at Katherine High School is set to become a reality, with M+J Builders securing the $15.4 million contract for its construction. The project aims to deliver a mix of upgrades to existing facilities and the construction of new areas, providing a contemporary and high-quality educational environment tailored to the needs of students, educators and the school community. Works will include the construction of new modern, purpose-built classrooms and art and music studios with a tiered performance space, enhancing the STEAM learning experience for students. Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler stressed that all children, no matter where they live, should have access to high-quality education. “We are investing in our Territory students – our future workforce, with the skills for the jobs of the future,” said Minister Lawler. “STEAM Centres are popular amongst students as they provide innovative educat

The Dalyellup multipurpose community and youth centre project in Western Australia is poised to receive an additional $1 million in funding from the State Government, supplementing the initial $8 million investment made by the state through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries . This extra funding has been secured to address project cost escalations. In addition to the state’s contribution, Lotterywest has contributed $1.9 million, while the Shire of Capel has provided $500,000. The Shire of Capel has also submitted an expression of interest with the Commonwealth Government Growing Regions Program for further funding towards the project. The extra funding allocated to this project, according to WA Regional Development Minister Don Punch, will not only help deliver an exceptional facility to the Dalyellup community but also create local economic and employment opportunities in the process. “Dalyellup residents consistently tell me there is a need for mor

The Northern Territory Government has released the final construction tender for upgrades to marine and landside facilities at the Gunyangara Tourism Precinct. The new marine facilities will support ongoing maintenance activities by local businesses in Nhulunbuy, while the detachable floating pontoon is designed for secure removal and storage in anticipation of cyclones. These enhancements aim to cater to the diverse needs of recreational users, charter vessels, small cruise ship operators and other marine operators. Additionally, the project seeks to maximise local and Indigenous participation and foster regional growth opportunities. Northern Territory Chief Minister and Minister for Territory Development, Eva Lawler , said: “We need to diversify the opportunities available in the region and work to grow the tourism and maritime industries, as well as highlight the natural resources and strong cultural community already in place.” “These upgrades will bring visitation and invest

Boral has been engaged on a large-scale flexible pavement project, the $2.2 billion Coffs Harbour bypass in New South Wales, to deliver and install 280 kilotonnes of asphalt. Flexible pavement, characterised by multiple layers of material that allow for the distribution of traffic load and flexibility in the asphalt, enhances durability. For the Coffs Harbour bypass project, Boral will employ EME asphalt, an Australian-developed, French product initially introduced by Boral almost a decade ago. EME asphalt enables a thinner layer of the ultra-hard, high-flexing-resistant asphalt to be used, contributing to a more sustainable product with a lifespan five to ten times longer than regular asphalt. The local Boral team, supported by surrounding regional resources, will execute this package of work. To date, initial planning activities have been conducted by Boral, with the majority of the work expected to commence in June 2024. Tim Richards , executive general manager, asphalt at Boral

ACCIONA is pioneering sustainable infrastructure solutions, achieving a significant milestone as the first company to own and operate a fully-electric piling rig for an Australian infrastructure project. The Liebherr LB30 ‘Unplugged’ piling rig, recognised as the world’s largest capacity fully battery-operated piling rig, is now in action at the Kananook Train Stabling Yard in Victoria, part of the Level Crossing Removal Project. The rig reduces emissions and noise pollution, enabling ACCIONA to contribute to the local project’s delivery in a more sustainable way. Bede Noonan, ACCIONA chief executive officer Australia and New Zealand, stated that the company is actively incorporating the latest technology advancements across its construction projects to reduce their environmental impacts. Related stories: ACCIONA awarded Sydney’s Western Harbour Tunnel contract ACCIONA approved to build $1.96B MacIntyre wind farm Contractor chosen for Majors Road Interchange Project “The ele

Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman has officially opened the new $104.6 million Mental Health Acute Inpatient Service (MHAIS) on the Ipswich Hospital campus. Opened to patients in November last year, the MHAIS blends state-of-the-art amenities with thoughtful design features to enhance support for mental health rehabilitation and recovery. “This building represents a step forward for people in Ipswich and the greater West Moreton region who have experience of mental illness in their lives or the life of a loved one,” said Minister Fentiman. “I am so pleased that patients in the Ipswich community will be able to recover and regain their mental wellbeing in this beautiful, state-of-the-art facility.” “The mental health and wellbeing of Queenslanders remains one of my top priorities moving into this year.” With an expanded capacity of 64 beds, 16 more than the previous facility, the MHAIS will include purpose-built spaces tailored f

AW Edwards has been selected as the building contractor for the Ryde Hospital Redevelopment, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progress. Construction is slated to commence in mid-2024, ushering in a new era for healthcare infrastructure in the region. With an investment of $479 million from the NSW Government, the Ryde Hospital Redevelopment aims to deliver a state-of-the-art health facility that will cater to the evolving health demands of the growing Ryde and neighbouring communities. NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said he is pleased the redevelopment is moving ahead. He emphasised the project’s potential to reshape healthcare for the local community, delivering the latest facilities and care models to accommodate the area’s growing population. Related stories: NSW Government announces funding boost for critical infrastructure NSW Government offers $12.5 million in community infrastructure grants NSW Government expands building industry reforms “This proje

Researchers are unravelling the potential of knitted wool as a sustainable alternative to conventional metal, timber and fibreglass formwork used in building concrete columns. This innovative construction technique could be a game-changer, especially in an industry responsible for a staggering 11 per cent of global carbon emissions. Unlike regular formwork, which is often discarded after a single use, wool formwork boasts impressive eco-credentials. Not only can it be reused up to three times, it’s also biodegradable. Head of the Abedian School of Architecture at Bond University, Professor Paul Loh, teamed up with fellow architect David Leggett of LLDS architects and textile design expert Dr Jenny Underwood of RMIT University to bring this concept to life. Using Australian wool, which weighs less than one per cent of traditional formwork, an advanced knitting machine produced seamless, sock-like forms. These wool forms were then suspended by an industrial robotic arm while concret

Infrastructure projects across Australia are set to reap the benefits of a new retaining wall system that is now available locally. By the National Precast Concrete Association Australia. Project – Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project Head contractor – PTP Alliance (McConnell Dowell, Arup and Mott Macdonald with the South Australian Government’s Department for Infrastructure and Transport) Master Precaster – The Reinforced Earth Company A new retaining wall system is being used on a level crossing removal project within one of Adelaide’s inner suburbs, delivering significant enhancements in both construction safety and speed. The new system combines precast and in situ concrete construction to deliver a highly efficient and robust cantilever retaining wall. National Precast Concrete Association Australia Master Precaster The Reinforced Earth Company has brought the new technology to Australia. Full-height facing panels that come complete with pre-attached perpendicul

Utilising TRUECORE steel, light gauge framing presents a versatile solution for addressing key challenges in the construction industry. Against a backdrop of global material shortages, increasing labour costs, affordable housing shortages and rapidly changing climate, the Australian construction industry must continually adapt to provide solutions that are fit-for-purpose. Light gauge framing made from TRUECORE steel may offer a solution to tackling some of these industry challenges. Steel is a key enabler for a construction industry seeking rapid efficiency and non-combustible materials that can be supplied locally to build homes, apartments, schools and commercial buildings. Antony Schillaci, manager marketing and market development at BlueScope, emphasises that light gauge steel is well-suited for structures intended for prolonged durability, resilience and adaptability. Its properties accommodate multiple future reuse options without the need for reinvestment in structural alte

The Australian engineering and construction industry experienced a busy year in 2023, and Coates anticipates that this momentum will continue in 2024. Coates group manager for customer and markets James Lawrence notes a cautious optimism prevailing for the upcoming year. “While residential construction is declining, nationally the market remains in an upward cycle driven by concurrent booms in road, railway and renewables construction,” says Lawrence. “Although buoyant, 2024 may still be challenging for some construction businesses, with demand surging in some markets and flattening in others.” “Construction costs also continue to rise, although at a slower pace than the past two years, and planning approvals and labour market constraints persist. “If businesses can successfully navigate these challenges and retain the talent to deliver on demand, the next decade will be a rewarding time to be working in this industry.” Coates foresees the following developments for engineering an

In light of the amendments to New South Wales’ work health and safety laws, recently passed by parliament, the Formwork Industry Association is emphasising the importance of providing appropriate safe systems of work and training. By Michael Sugg, chief executive officer, Formwork Industry Association. On 12 October 2023, the Parliament of New South Wales passed amendments to the state’s work health and safety (WHS) laws. Some of these changes commenced immediately, while others will come into progressive effect until mid-2024. These changes mean that Formwork Industry Association (FIA) members, and other industry participants, will need to carefully consider whether their safety systems and processes are robust enough and whether their workforces are trained, instructed and informed sufficiently to meet the legislation requirements. The key changes of interest to FIA members include: Significant increases in the maximum penalties for breaches of the WHS Act, including those whos

Broad Construction, a member of the CIMIC Group, has been selected to deliver Brisbane Catholic Education’s new Notre Dame College at Bells Creek on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The first stage of the project is slated to open in term one of 2025, providing facilities for Prep to Year Three, and Year Seven students. Broad Construction will deliver five new buildings, including an administration building and general learning spaces, sports courts, a workshop and landscaping. CIMIC Group executive chairman Juan Santamaria said that Broad Construction, with its wealth of experience in safely constructing complex projects, will draw on the skills gained from delivering award-winning educational facilities across Australia. “We are pleased to be selected to deliver a vibrant new learning and recreational space to inspire and educate children from the Bells Creek community,” said Santamaria. Related stories: Broad Construction wins WA prison expansion contract Broad Construction win

Alyssa Preer, fuelled by her ambition to one day establish her own business in the construction industry, excels in her role as a certified electrician at O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville. At the young age of 23, Alyssa Preer possesses an exceptional blend of wit and determination. By day, she is a qualified electrician, delivering electrical works for a variety of commercial construction projects. By night, she seamlessly transitions into her role as a skilled beauty therapist and business owner. At 18, while still attending school, Preer earned her beauty therapy certification. Though she had a genuine interest in the field, she soon realised it wasn’t the career she wanted to pursue full-time. “My dad suggested that I try a trade after we built an electric fence together, sparking my interest in electrical work,” says Preer. “From there, I completed an electrician pre-apprenticeship course and fell in love with it.” “I started my apprenticeship in late 2019, and today

Achieve infrastructure excellence with formwork services by Cycon Monero Group in Victoria. Know their role in shaping construction projects. Call 0414 979 169. Construction and infrastructure development continue to improve nowadays thanks to the advancements introduced to a wide range of processes and components used for their projects. Formwork services, for instance, still play a pivotal role in shaping robust and enduring structures. In the vibrant state of Victoria, these services contribute significantly to the region’s growth and progress. Formwork Services by Cycon Monero Group We, at Cycon Monero Group, have the expertise and experience to carry out formwork services for infrastructures. But to understand these services further, one must know what formwork is first. Formwork in general is the temporary mould or structure utilised to support and shape concrete during the curing process. It is a crucial element in the construction of various structures, from bridges and t

Hobson Engineering has developed rigorous fastener testing and verification systems in alignment with Australian standards, taking the lead to forestall substandard imported products entering the Australian construction market. Curbing the importation of non-conforming construction materials into Australia is a feat that requires the combined effort of construction companies, suppliers and importers alike. While many in the Australian construction industry are still settling for low-cost over quality, given the current cost-driven market, Hobson Engineering is breaking ground by implementing and advocating for efficient quality systems that drive local compliance. Alex Sharp, senior engineer at Hobson Engineering. (Image: Alex Sharp) Today, most commercial fasteners in Australia are imported, and with that comes the natural market pressure to reduce costs, leading to global sourcing from regions with varying levels of quality assurance for manufacture. Different products require