Construcciones Yamaro, by Armando Iachini

Coates’ cooling solution for Boral’s Berrima Cement Works facility. (Image: Supplied by Coates) Each January, Boral delivers a planned shutdown at its Berrima Cement Works facility in New South Wales, an event that Coates Industrial Solutions has supported for 27 years through equipment hire, onsite tool stores and experienced personnel. During a recent shutdown, in addition to the planned maintenance activities, Boral required a spot cooling system to provide temperature relief for the contractors servicing the kiln’s conveyor in the 50-plus degree heat of the shed. Boral has successfully managed this challenge for the past seven years with another supplier, but it was the first time the company called on Coates to provide a cooling solution. Harnessing the collective expertise of its Industrial Solutions and Power and HVAC teams, Coates devised an in-house solution to rapidly reduce the temperature and ensure the continuity of Boral’s operations. According to Kurt Edwards, Pow...

Image: hin255/stock.adobe.com The Australian Constructors Association and Engineers Australia have announced four finalists for the 2024 Australian Construction Achievement Award (ACAA). Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association, said the ACAA recognises Australia’s best construction project and the companies behind it. “There is just one award up for grabs and a diverse range of projects are competing for it in 2024,” said Davies. “This year’s finalists span from roads to rail, water infrastructure to airports.” “Each project has been delivered in ways that contribute to a more progressive and sustainable construction industry. “We’re seeing construction excellence at its best, but we’re also seeing a real commitment to improving skills and worker wellbeing, as well as approaches to environmentally responsible outcomes.” Related stories: ACA calls for collaboration to drive success of major project delivery DT Infrastructure joins Australian Constructors...

The Electronic Logbook for FBT is built into the MyGeotab and Geotab Drive applications. (Image: Supplied by Geotab) Geotab has announced the release of its Electronic Logbook, tailored to address the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) reporting requirements for businesses in Australia. Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) is applicable when employees utilise company-owned vehicles for personal use, resulting in a taxable benefit in place of salary or wages. Under Australian taxation law, employers are obligated to pay FBT on such benefits. Australian businesses that provide company-owned vehicles to their employees are confronted with stringent record-keeping requirements for FBT. These obligations range from maintaining detailed records of motor vehicle usage to submitting reports to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This process can become arduous for employers who lack the appropriate technology, such as an in-vehicle telematics system. Geotab has developed an Electronic Logbook for FBT as...

Monash University’s robotic arms. (Image: Monash University) New research suggests that robots could usher in a significant transformation in the processing and recycling of construction waste materials. Researchers trawled through skip bins across Melbourne construction sites, capturing hundreds of photos of materials destined for landfill. These images were then employed to train deep learning (DL) and artificial intelligence (AI) systems to recognise a diverse range of materials and particles found in mixed waste from construction sites. Led by Monash University PhD candidate  Diani Sirimewan , from the  Automation and Sustainability in Construction and Intelligent Infrastructure (ASCII) Lab  in Civil Engineering, the study lays the groundwork for leveraging advanced robotics and automation in construction waste management. This promising approach stands to replace manual sorting by workers, which poses risks due to handling hazardous and potentially contami...

Komatsu’s logo and branding feature prominently on the 2024 Williams Racing livery, as well as the team’s overalls and kit, for the upcoming Formula One season. (Image: Williams Racing) Komatsu has signed a multi-year deal with Williams Racing to become the Principal Partner of the British team from the start of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) season. Komatsu was a key partner of Williams Racing in Formula One during the 1980’s and 1990’s, a period of abundant success for the team. The most notable achievements were in 1996 and 1997, when Komatsu supported Williams Racing to Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships with Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve, respectively. With an eye to the future, both brands are excited to build on their shared history as they embark on a new era. Tokyo-based Komatsu has been leading innovation in the equipment manufacturing sector for more than 100 years. As embodied by its brand promise, “Creating value together,” the company be...

Image: Thirawatana/stock.adobe.com The construction industry in Australia is experiencing a growing trend towards incorporating recycled materials into building and infrastructure projects, signalling an increasing commitment to a circular economy. However, the use of virgin materials remains prevalent, highlighting the need for further action. This urgency is underscored by Australia’s ranking among the top 10 extractors of natural … The post Rethinking material use to drive a circular economy appeared first on Inside Construction . View Source

Artist’s impression: Royal Far West’s Manly beachfront development. (Image: TWO —o SEVEN) Royal Far West has selected Multiplex as its construction partner to deliver its Manly beachfront development, comprising the luxurious Aurora apartments, revitalised accommodation for country families and a blend of retail, commercial and lifestyle related spaces. For nearly a century, RFW, a children’s healthcare charity, has been improving the health and wellbeing of children residing in rural and remote regions. This mission involves bringing them and their families to Manly for health treatments and pioneering telehealth services in remote areas. The decision to develop its land represents a bold step towards securing the sustainability of the charity, ensuring its ability to provide essential paediatric health services in response to the growing needs of rural children and families who lack access to vital services in their communities. David Ghannoum, regional managing director for Ne...

Artist’s impression: Sydney Metro Train. (Image: Sydney Metro) To steer the future of major project delivery in Australia towards timely and cost-effective outcomes, the Australian Constructors Association’s (ACA) Jon Davies urges a collaborative effort from the government, industry and unions. Jon Davies, CEO of the ACA. (Image: ACA) By Jon Davies, CEO of the ACA. Hot on the heels of another on-time ribbon cutting for the extension of the City and Southwest line to Western Sydney Airport, the latest section of Sydney Metro West, between Bankstown and Liverpool, has just been completed on time and on budget. The Liverpool section cost 30 per cent less per kilometre than the preceding sections of Sydney Metro West, between Bankstown and the CBD, and was constructed in a fraction of the time. This is obviously a fictitious story, but let’s just imagine it isn’t for a moment. Following the recommendations of the Independent Review of the Metro project conducted by Mike Mrdak A...

Hannah Yap, environmental advisor for the New Bridgewater Bridge Project at McConnell Dowell. (Image: GroundUp Imaging) In the midst of the ongoing global shortage of skilled workers in the construction sector, McConnell Dowell is successfully cultivating a pipeline of new and eager talent through its Graduate Program. Recognised for its instrumental role in propelling recent graduates into thriving careers in construction , McConnell Dowell’s Graduate Program provides invaluable hands-on learning opportunities for the next generation of industry professionals. Allowing participants to learn the ropes and gain practical insights into the execution of major construction projects, the two-year program not only addresses the industry’s talent gaps but also ensures a steady influx of capable individuals ready to contribute to the growth of Australia’s built environment. Michael Caswell, general manager of human resources for McConnell Dowell’s Australian business unit. (Image: McCo...

In response to the enduring safety challenges and skills shortage within the formwork sector, executive leader Michael Sugg puts forth a series of solutions. By Michael Sugg, chief executive officer, Formwork Industry Association . As the Australian construction industry grapples with a shortage of skilled workers, the formwork sector faces unique challenges in maintaining safety standards alongside the demand for specialised skills. Formwork construction demands precision, expertise and an unwavering commitment to safety. In this article, we delve into the safety implications of the skills shortage in the Australian formwork industry and propose comprehensive solutions that prioritise training, collaboration and safety. Safety challenges 1. Specialised safety knowledge: Formwork construction is classed as ‘high-risk’ and requires a specific set of skills. It involves unique safety considerations, including securing formwork structures, managing loads and ensuring the stability o...

John Holland has announced the appointment of seasoned executive David Lehmann as the new chief operating officer. With over 30 years’ experience in the property and construction industry, Lehmann, formerly the executive general manager, Building at John Holland, brings a wealth of expertise in business strategy, leadership , operational excellence and large-scale project delivery. Joe Barr, chief executive officer of John Holland, says Lehmann will be instrumental in driving the next chapter of growth and success for the business. “David’s been involved in everything from winning work and project delivery to business performance – helping to drive growth and forge strong relationships with our partners,” says Barr. “His new role will focus on connectivity, performance and governance right across the business.” Lehmann has previously held senior roles in Southeast Asia, Greater China and Australia, and has led John Holland’s national Building division since 2017. Related stories:...

Late last year, Procore held a roundtable discussion spotlighting the strategic prowess and resilience displayed by construction and property leaders in New South Wales throughout 2023. This yielded a plethora of innovative solutions poised to help propel construction projects to success. In a constantly evolving landscape of technological breakthroughs, unique challenges and economic fluctuations, proficient project management is a critical linchpin for construction businesses vying to sustain a competitive edge. Procore, standing at the forefront of effective solutions as one of the leading construction management software providers globally, is dedicated to empowering contractors to achieve project success and raise their operations to new heights. With a robust pipeline of projects on the horizon in New South Wales, Procore recently convened a roundtable discussion that brought together some of the state’s prominent construction and property leaders. The aim was to explore curre...

Coates has launched a new diversity and inclusion initiative – ‘See It. Be It.’ – showcasing female representation and highlighting career pathways within the company. The initiative aims to inspire more Australians to pursue rewarding careers within construction and heavy industry. Murray Vitlich, CEO at Coates, expresses enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising its commitment to championing diversity and inclusion in these sectors. “Construction is the most male-dominated industry in Australia, so it’s important to provide visible pathways for women and ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, sees themselves reflected in our industry,” says Vitlich. Creating an inspiring visual narrative To kick-off the initiative, Coates conducted two photo shoots in Sydney and Melbourne featuring some of its female employees. The women represented a diverse range of roles at Coates, including a first-year electrical apprentice, second-year mechanical apprentice, technical engineer, solut...

Today is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of women’s accomplishments and a rallying cry for advancing gender equality. To mark the occasion, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the organisations committed to forging an equitable construction industry where women can thrive. The National Association of Women in Construction  The National Association of Women in … The post Celebrating International Women’s Day appeared first on Inside Construction . View Source

Allyssa Hudson exemplifies the myriad opportunities inherent in the construction industry, having already contributed to several high-profile major projects across diverse sectors since starting her carpentry apprenticeship in 2020. As a qualified carpenter at Lendlease, Allyssa Hudson has helped deliver some of Sydney’s most iconic buildings and infrastructure, despite construction not being her initial career trajectory. During her schooling, Hudson received constant encouragement from educators to prioritise academic studies and pursue a university degree post her higher school certificate (HSC). Interestingly, a career in construction or a skilled trade was never presented as a viable option. In fact, Hudson recalls joking with friends about the unconventional notion of ‘dropping out’ and becoming a tradesperson. “My high school placed a strong emphasis on the HSC and university path, with minimal exposure to or discussion about the construction industry,” says Hudson. “I vivid...