Directions Summer 2013-14

delivering excellence along the high road • 12

thiess and rwe create global partnership • 26

acQUisitiOn strengthens serViCes bUsiness • 34

SHOWC AS I NG I NNOVAT I O NSin rail delivery

DIreCTIONSSum

mer 2013/14

THIESS • DIRECTIONS SUMMER 2013/20142

Traversing the Sugarloaf Range, the Hunter Expressway Alliance team navigated steep, environmentally-sensitive terrain to provide new connections and ease traffic congestion across the Upper Hunter Region of NSW.

THIESS • DIRECTIONS SUMMER 2013/2014 3

MD’s

MeSSAG e

2013 will go down as a redefining year for Thiess. It’s been a year where we’ve achieved an outstanding safety performance. Our RIFR of 3.5 is a 33 per cent improvement over the past 12 months and continues to trend down. There is a real culture of safety growing within the business and it’s apparent on all of the projects I visit. I’m confident with everyone’s commitment and ongoing hard work this trend will continue to improve as we strive to become the industry leader.

Through the valuable lessons learnt from overcoming the challenges of the previous two years, we now have in place more robust risk and design management, and project controls capabilities. We will continue to develop and finesse these functions as part of our relentless focus on excellence across everything we do.

As part of these improvements, it’s been extremely pleasing to see Thiess deliver a strong 2013 performance despite the subdued sentiment across our industry sectors. We have a great foundation for 2014 and beyond which enables us to drive greater efficiencies through strategic procurement, innovation and lean operations. And for the first time ever, we are recognising and taking advantage of the buying power of the Leighton Group, translating to lower costs. We also intend to partner more with other Leighton operating companies to secure Australia’s leading resources for major infrastructure projects.

More recently, we completed our staff survey which highlights strong levels of loyalty, placing Thiess in the top 20 companies in Australia to work for. To further enhance our diversity agenda, we are committed to creating a culture of inclusion where everyone’s capability and great ideas can be harnessed.

We continue to seek every opportunity to drive innovation across our construction, mining and services business enabling more cost effective solutions for our clients.

In construction, we’re building our relationship with QGC, expanding our work on the QCLNG project in the Surat Basin and creating thousands of jobs in the process. Our track record for delivering vital transport infrastructure helped secure the landmark North West Rail Link project in Sydney’s north-west and the long-awaited Moreton Bay Rail project in Brisbane’s north.

We welcome the recent upswing in economic activity and greater certainty around the infrastructure pipeline both at a federal and state level. However we must not lose sight of the importance to deliver more value at a lower cost.

In our mining business we are reworking our offer to keep pace with the changing needs of clients. Innovation again is driving this transition which puts improvements in costs, productivity and certainty at the forefront of everything we do.

The acquisition of Silcar adds another string to our services bow, bringing mechanical, electrical and industrial maintenance capability to Thiess, and strengthening our asset management and O&M expertise.

It’s pleasing to see industry acknowledging the high standard Thiess sets across all of our projects with an impressive collection of awards for our buildings, civil and social infrastructure, as well as our reconciliation programs which are helping to ‘close the gap’.

I take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and happy Christmas and look forward to working with you towards a sound, sustainable and successful year ahead.

CONSTRUCTIONMINING

SERVICES

12

14

Delivering excellence along the high road

S2S on track for early completion

The team working on the award-winning Hunter Expressway in NSW has celebrated its successful completion

Innovative solution puts NICB on track for early finish

34 Acquisition strengthens businessSilcar acquisition boosts services offer

26 Thiess and RWE create global partnershipExclusive arrangement set to deliver significant savings

CONT

eNTS

08

10

40

Thiess recognised for

excellence

It’s a RAP

Care grants create brighter

futures

Across our projects, Thiess is

being recognised by industry and

government for its outstanding work

The Reconciliation Action Plan

comes to life and hits target

ahead of schedule

Community groups receive

funding to boost initiatives

24

16 In-house design capability expands

Thiess JV appointed to Melbourne Water PanelJoint Venture to compete for Melbourne Water capital works program

39 Orica project wins awardOrica Car Park Waste Encapsulation remediation project wins CARE award

A dedicated engineering team bolsters design and risk management capability

33 ‘Can do’ attitude delivers results‘Dozer-push’ pilot showcases commitment to delivering value

36

38

Watershed partnership steps up to bushfire challenge

Showcasing remediation expertise

Services team helps in emergency bushfire effort

HMAS Platypus site set for new future

28

30

Mining digs deep to deliver value

Thiess Indonesia marks milestone

Mining looks to deliver world-class service through improved productivity and efficiency

Thiess celebrates 25 years in Indonesia

15 Thiess and QGC sign landmark contract

Thiess awarded landmark $1.8 billion contract by QGC

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IN BRIEF

Ne W TH I e S S scholarship launched

Thiess and Mitsubishi Australia have entered into a landmark collaboration agreement which was formalised during a ceremony at Mitsubishi Corporation’s global headquarters in Tokyo in September.

Thiess Managing Director Bruce Munro and Mitsubishi Australia Managing Director Mitsuyuki Takada signed the agreement in the presence of Queensland Premier Campbell Newman and Chairman of Mitsubishi Corporation Mr Kojima.

The agreement formalises an already-strong working relationship and will further enhance the spirit of collaboration between the companies.

Bruce said the agreement will see the companies work together to pursue new opportunities.

“We will target a range of sectors in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea,” he said.

“Both companies while being future focused share a pioneering spirit and our partnership agreement allows us to further develop our many synergies.”

The collaboration is likely to see the companies develop their relationship in resources, as well as exploring opportunities in infrastructure delivery and investment.

The Vic/SA/Tas/NZ Business Unit has launched a new ‘Thiess Women in Engineering Scholarship’ for female students at Victoria’s Monash University.

The scholarship, valued at $21,250, is awarded to the top female students in the second, third and fourth years of their civil engineering degree. In addition to receiving invaluable financial support, second and third-year scholarship winners also have the chance to participate in work experience with Thiess.

Operations Manager Steve Cornish presented the scholarships to the winning students and said it was an excellent opportunity for Thiess to engage with the next generation of women in engineering.

“The winners of this year’s Thiess Women in Engineering Scholarships are all extremely talented women in their right, with their own unique skills and talents,” he said.

“Diversity in our workforce promotes innovation, creativity, flexibility, productivity and competitiveness, and increasing the number of women in our workforce is an important part of that.”

The Thiess Women in Engineering Scholarship builds on the business unit’s long-standing relationship with Monash University’s Faculty of Engineering.

A sod turning ceremony marked the start of major construction at the RAAF Base East Sale Redevelopment Project in Victoria.

A host of dignitaries including the Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney and representatives from the Department of Defence attended the event in July.

Thiess won the $185.6 million project through a competitive open tender process. Previously, Thiess successfully delivered the RAAF College Relocation Projects at the same base.

The project – four years in the planning – will significantly redevelop RAAF Base East Sale and ensure it meets the requirements of an enduring training Air Base. It will feature new and refurbished facilities, infrastructure

(L-R) Director General Capital Facilities Infrastructure Brigadier Darren Naumann, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Senator David Feeney and the Senior Australia Defence Force Officer (East Sale) Group Captain Glen Coy officially turned the first sod.

RAAF Base re D e V e lOp MeNT b eG I N S

Operations Manager Steve Cornish congratulates Eliza Gibbs, winner of the Thiess Women in Engineering Scholarship for fourth year students.

C O l l A b OrAT I O N AG r e eM eNT S I GN e D

MD Bruce Munro, the Premier of QLD, the Honourable Campbell Newman, the Chairman of Mitsubishi Corporation Mr Yorihiko Kojima, the Managing Director of Mitsubishi Australia and New Zealand Mr Mitsuyuki Takada.

services upgrades, a new air traffic control complex, firing range and trainee living-in-accommodation, new commercial, as well as community facilities.

An early works package commenced in May 2013 with completion scheduled for mid-2015.


IN BRIEF

The International RiverFoundation (IRF) has awarded the 2013 Thiess International Riverprize to the Mara River in Kenya.

The trans-boundary river, which is home to rich biodiversity and sustains the livelihoods of many, is the first in Africa ever to be awarded the prestigious prize in its 15-year history.

Much has been achieved as a result of the Mara River Environmental Management Initiative. Almost 1,000 farmers within the basin have been educated and had their farms terraced, a 40-kilometre stretch of riverbank has been restored and 40 springs have also been protected – providing easy access to clean water and reducing water-borne diseases. These on-ground works have been targeted through an integrated program of catchment and river management activities.

Executive General Manager of Thiess’ mining business in Australia and IRF Director Michael Wright presented the prize at a gala award event in Brisbane in September and congratulated the winner and the finalists for demonstrating excellence and innovation in river restoration and management.

“Thiess has been supporting the International Riverprize since its inception in 1999 and the Mara River Project shows how far-reaching this support is and the positive impact it has on communities around the world,” he said.

The Thiess International Riverprize is awarded each year to projects that have demonstrated outstanding achievement and commitment to restoring the world’s rivers.

Mara River wins T H I e S S I N T erNAT I ON A l r I V e rpr I z e

From left, Pam Wiley, Meyer Memorial Trust; Kennedy Onyango, Mara River Water Users Association; Michael Wright, Thiess; Matthew Reddy, International RiverFoundation. Photo Credit: International RiverFoundation.

The Thiess Sedgman Joint Venture (TSJV) has been awarded a $186 million contract to design and construct a Coal Handling and Preparation Plant (CHPP) for Boggabri Coal Pty Ltd.

The CHPP will support the expansion of Boggabri Coal’s mining operation located in the Gunnedah Basin in north-west New South Wales. Boggabri Coal is expanding the annual production to 6.9 million tonnes.

The contract has a direct value to Leighton Holdings Limited of $124 million through its wholly-owned subsidiary Thiess and its 33 per cent stake in Sedgman.

Detailed design and procurement work is underway with the plant scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2015.

J V W I N S $ 186M CHPP contract

e Ar ly br e Ak THrOuGH for City East Cable Tunnel

»

The tunnelling team is celebrating an early breakthrough on the 3.2 kilometre City East Cable Tunnel in Sydney.

The 3.5 metre internal diameter, segmentally-lined tunnel is a critical component in Ausgrid’s future proofing of the city’s electricity supply network.

After launching the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at the Riley Street, Surry Hills Substation in January 2013, the team achieved breakthrough at the City North Substation on 29 October, 40 calendar days ahead of schedule.

Project Manager Tim Burns praised his team and said the outstanding TBM excavation performance gives the project a real shot of finishing well ahead of the May 2015 completion target.

“This breakthrough is a huge moment, the culmination of four years of work. We set up on site 23 months ago and this milestone is a tribute to all the hard work the team has put into it.”

King George Central

King George Central

King George Central

Airport LinkCity East Cable Tunnel

City East Cable Tunnel

Tulla Sydney Alliance M80 Upgrade

Tulla Sydney Alliance M80 UpgradeLotus Glen Correctional Centre

Lotus Glen Correctional Centre Hunter Expressway Stage 2 Royal North Shore Hospital

Goodna Stp Upgrade

Brighton Bypass Northern SectionSeaford Rail Extension

Seaford Rail Extension

Orica Car Park Waste Encapsulation Project Trackstar Alliance Richlands to spRingfield pRoject

glObal rOad achievement award fOr cOnstrUctiOn methOdOlOgy, grOUnd engineering magazineInternational Project of the Year

airport linkglObal water awardDesalination Plant of the Year

victOrian water assOciatiOn Infrastructure Project Innovation Award

victorian desalination Plant

Across our projects, Thiess is being recognised by industry and government for its outstanding work.

aUstralian institUte Of bUilding » National Building Professional of the Year

Jim Tragotsalos Commercial Construction $100m+

» National Professional Excellence Award Jim Tragotsalos Commercial Construction $100m+

nsw master bUilders Outstanding Construction Award and Health Buildings Construction category for projects $500m+

infrastrUctUre PartnershiPs aUstralia Contractor Excellence Award

royal north shore hospital

Qld master bUildersExcellence in Sustainable Building

King george centralnsw master bUildersSite Safety Award – Civil Construction

city east cable tunnelgoodna stP Upgradeengineers aUstralia (Qld divisiOn)Engineering Excellence Award – Environment


TH I e S S r eCOGN I S e D for e xC e l l eNC e

Jim Tragotsalos, Project Director.

QlD QlD NSW

NSW

VIC

Airport LinkAirport Link

Victorian Desalination Plant

Tulla Sydney Alliance M80 UpgradeHunter Expressway Stage 2

Hunter Expressway Stage 2 TrackStar Alliance Richlands to spRingfield pRoject

Royal North Shore Hospital

Goodna Stp UpgradeGoodna Stp Upgrade

Brighton Bypass Northern Section

Brighton Bypass Northern Section

2013 Queensland Reconciliation Award For Business

2013 Queensland Reconciliation Award For Business




Orica Car Park Waste Encapsulation Project

Orica car Park waste encapsulation Projectcare award Sustainable Technology and Innovation

victOrian wOrKcOver aUthOrity Best Solution to a Specific Workplace Health and Safety Issue Award

tulla sydney alliance m80 Upgrade

Qld master bUildersQueensland Sporting and Community Services Facilities ($20–$400m)

lotus glen correctional centre

engineers aUstralia (newcastle divisiOn) Engineering Excellence Award – Environment

hunter expressway stage 2

QUeensland safe wOrK award Most significant improvement to work health and safety performance

trackstar alliance RICHLANDS TO SPRINGFIELD PROJECT

brighton bypass northern sectioncivil cOntractOrs federatiOnEarth Awards for Projects Over $75m

Premier Campbell Newman (far right) presented the award to the Thiess team including (L-R) Manager of the Indigenous Pre-Employment Program John Reynolds, Aboriginal Engagement Advisor Todd Phillips, Organisational Capability Specialist Sharon White, General Manager Mining Douglas Thompson and Recruitment Manager James Phillips.

2013 Queensland reconciliation award For businessseaford rail extensioncivil cOntractOrs federatiOnEarth Awards for Projects Over $75m


STATe AWArDNATIONAl AWArDGlObAl AWArD STATe

QlD

NSWQlD

VIC TAS

QlD

SA


a PartnershiP between the salvatiOn army’s emPlOyment PlUs, wesfarmers cUrragh and thiess is delivering a UniQUe mining sKills PrOgram in central QUeensland.

Ten Indigenous women from Rockhampton and Blackwater are the first graduates of the ‘Oothungs (sisters) in Mining’ program which has been designed to launch their careers in the mining industry at the Wesfarmers Curragh mine near Blackwater.

Amanda Lawton is one of the women to graduate from the program, successfully launching her career at the Thiess-operated Curragh North mine.

“It’s been a huge learning curve but the men have all been very supportive and willing to share their industry knowledge with us,” she said.

“There’s been a getting-to-know-you process as my crews have only worked with one Indigenous woman at the mine before, but I’ve felt really welcome.

OUr recOnciliatiOn actiOn Plan (raP) reinfOrces OUr PriOrity tO exPand OUr Pre-emPlOyment PrOgrams and sUPPOrt the grOwth Of indigenOUs talent acrOss OUr bUsiness.

We’re proud to have reached our 2.5 per cent Indigenous employment target for the group, well ahead of schedule, with the employment of an additional 50 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders this year. In the mining business, Indigenous employment is close to 6 per cent.

This milestone reflects our commitment to programs such as the ‘Oothungs (sisters) in Mining’ and the Frederickton to Eungai Pacific Highway Upgrade’s pre-employment program for local Indigenous youth.

RAPIt’s a

Mining program

The participants had no previous mining experience and were selected for the course based partly on their genuine desire to enter the industry.

The group has undergone extensive training in the classroom environment and completed a program in the advanced haul truck simulator, which means they can begin operational roles as trainee haul truck operators.

Thiess has employed six of the trainees and four have joined the Wesfarmers Curragh team.

d R I V E S j O B O p p O R T U N I T I E S

(L-R) Hayley Butler, Amanda Lawton, Cheryl Shepherd and Alyson Pope are among the six Oothungs (Sisters) in Mining graduates employed at our operations at Curragh North. The mine’s owner, Wesfarmers Curragh, employed the program’s remaining four graduates on its team.


The Kempsey-based locals have started work on the Frederickton to Eungai Pacific Highway Upgrade project (F2E) as civil construction trainees after successfully completing the program.

More than 150 applicants applied for the 24 positions on offer. The first group of 12 trainees successfully combined work experience with study, completing modules from the Certificate III in Construction through North Coast TAFE’s Kempsey campus. The second group is scheduled to commence in January 2014.

Trainees Sam Drew and Eddie Moran said the course gave them real insight into the construction industry and a promising future.

“It was fantastic getting a go, and giving it a go, and there’s a real benefit for the community,” Sam said.

For Eddie, it was the first course he attended since completing school.

“The whole course was a challenge in itself,” he said. “I want to be a role model for the next generation of my community.”

Thiess F2E Human Resources Manager Tony Bransdon was delighted with the overwhelming community response and the passion, commitment and enthusiasm of the trainees.

“We painted a very honest picture about how tough this industry can be, which can involve working up to 10-12 hour days, six-days-a-week,” Tony said.

“However that didn’t deter our first group of trainees, who were grateful for the opportunity and keen to get out and make a difference.”

Of the 12 trainees who enrolled, 10 completed the program and two elected not to pursue a career in construction.

Tony confirmed Thiess would source an additional five Indigenous trainees from the region’s schools for next year’s program, in addition to the 12 trainees who had already secured their place.

“We’re committed to developing these trainees over the long term and we hope many of them will go on to fulfilling careers with the company.”

As part of its Reconciliation Action Plan, Thiess committed to having 2.5 per cent of its workforce made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders by 2015 and achieved this target well ahead of schedule. Across Thiess, we have employed an additional 50 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders this year, bringing the total number employed across our operations to 239.

Back row (l-r): Kyle Moran, Michael Roberts, Lewis Smith, Robert Crutch, Bradley Kershaw. Front row (l-r): Samuel Drew, Edward Moran, Anita Jarrett, Zane Griffin, Adrian Jarrett.

“They’ve been really patient with my questions, and everyone’s willingness to help has been astounding.”

Thiess General Manager Mining Douglas Thompson congratulated the participants and praised the collaborative effort which delivered the scheme.

“The combined expertise of The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus, Wesfarmers Curragh and Thiess has produced a truly outstanding result for diversity in the mining industry,” Douglas said.

Wesfarmers Curragh General Manager Craig McCabe added, “Curragh is extremely pleased to host the Oothungs in Mining program and to provide this opportunity for the participants to start their career in mining.”

A spokesperson for The Salvation Army Employment Plus Kirrilee Trist said support from organisations like Thiess and Wesfarmers was fantastic.

“Every day we see how people’s lives, families and communities can be transformed by sustainable employment, and the real benefit that brings to business too,” she said.

F2E paves road T O E M p l O y M E N T

All the women on the program receive ongoing mentoring support for the first six months of their traineeships. An Employment Plus mentor and male and female mentors working on site, regularly check-in with the trainees to ensure they are successfully transitioning into full-time work.

eight indigenOUs emPlOyees nOw have a career in the CiVil ConstrUCtion indUstry, thanks to a thiess 10-week

Pre-emPlOyment PrOgram.

14 S2S ON TRACK FOR EARLY COMPLETION

15 THIESS AND QGC SIGN LANDMARK CONTRACT

16 IN-HOUSE DESIGN CAPABILITY ExPANDS

17 FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN SUPPORTS YOUTH AT RISK

18 OCCUPATION STRATEGY MINIMISES IMPACT

20 TRACKSTAR LEADS THE WAY

21 INNOVATION KEY TO MBR WIN

22 GOODWOOD TEAM SURPASSES ExPECTATIONS

23 FOUR TBMs TACKLE TUNNEL CHALLENGE

24 THIESS JV APPOINTED TO MELBOURNE WATER PANEL

25 3D PRINTING BUILDS NEW DIMENSION

DelIVerING exCelleNCe along the high road

The project’s unique complexities included undulating forest terrain, watercourses, mine subsidence due to historical mining activities, logistics, cultural heritage and environmental management. Quality engineering ensured successful delivery and project completion.

Concept design and approvals focused on minimising disturbance to vegetation and management of erosion and sediment control. Achieving outstanding results, the team reduced clearing below the agreed target and managed cross drainage sites and temporary controls to above-industry standards.

the team wOrKing On the award-winning hUnter exPressway PrOject in new sOUth wales celebrated its sUccessfUl cOmPletiOn in aUgUst – One month ahead oF sChedUle and three years aFter work began in 2010.

eNVIrONMeNT eNGINeerING exCelleNCe


DelIVerING exCelleNCe along the high road

Valued at $885 million, Stage 2 of the Hunter Expressway involved the construction of 13 kilometres of the new 40-kilometre dual carriageway between the M1 Pacific Motorway (formerly F3 Freeway) near Seahampton and the New England Highway west of Branxton in the Hunter Valley.

Traversing the rugged Sugarloaf Range to provide new connections and ease traffic congestion across the Upper Hunter, the expressway is one of the largest and most complex projects in the State’s history.

The project was delivered by the Hunter Expressway Alliance (HEA) which included

Thiess, NSW Roads and Maritime Services, Parsons Brinkerhoff and Hyder Consulting.

The team, which employed 900 people at its peak, has left behind a proud legacy of engineering excellence, environmental performance and significant contribution to the Hunter community.

The risk posed by the presence of mine voids beneath the Hunter Expressway required one of the most sophisticated mine fill projects to date. A team of more than 70 personnel took 16 months to secure approximately 20 hectares of disused underground coal mines and prepare a solid foundation for the construction work.

To reduce the risks associated with working at heights, hard control measures such as hand rails were used in favour of harnesses, wherever possible.

To minimise the amount of on-site construction in the environmentally-sensitive area, viaducts were constructed using a precast segment balanced cantilever methodology. A launching gantry – 165 metres long, 16 metres high and weighing approximately 1,000 tonnes – was used to erect the deck segments to 75 metre-long bridge spans.

SAfeTy WOrkING AT HeIGHTSVIADuCT CONSTruCTION MINe VOID TreATMeNT WOrkS


an innOvative sOlUtiOn has PUt the newcastle inner city byPass (nicb) shortland to sandgate (s2s) projeCt On tracK fOr cOmPletiOn twO mOnths ahead Of schedUle.

In 2012, Thiess assumed responsibility for completing the S2S section of the NICB in alliance with the Roads and Maritime Services of NSW (RMS).

Project Manager Graham Nuss said the team consistently focused on achieving the key milestones critical to meeting RMS’ tight schedule.

“Our approach to launching the 112.1-metre-long north and south rail bridges over the Main North

S2S ON T r ACk for early completion

THE S2S PROJECT InCluDES A

1.9 kIlOMETRE DuAl CArrIAGeWAyWHICH FORMS THE nORTHERn SECTIOn OF THE nICB,

A MUCh ANTICIpATEd INfrASTruCTure prOJeCT lInkInG nEWCASTlE’S ROAD nETWORk AnD IMPROVInG TRAFFIC FlOW In THE CITy.

Railway was an innovation that put us ahead of program,” Graham said.

“The site team developed a system which incorporated hydraulically linked jacks into the temporary launch bearings to overcome reaction load problems,” he said.

“We believe it’s the first time in the world this method has been adopted.”

This important component of the project required specialist expertise which the team drew from in-house.

“I sought out Senior Project Engineer Shane Butsch who had recently managed the delivery of an incrementally launched bridge over the F3 Freeway on the Hunter Expressway,” Graham said.

“Under Shane’s leadership, the team launched each of the bridges over one of Australia’s busiest freight rail corridors during a single rail possession.

“He oversaw the complex temporary design works and coordination of several government agency approvals required to commence the project.”

Planned and constructed in five sections, work on the NICB began in the 1990s. Thiess has worked on three of the five sections.

s2s is dUe For Completion in early 2014.

60-metre grade separated interchange at Sandgate Road

At grade signalised intersectiOn between NICB and the Pacific Highway

2 x 256-metre-long bridges over Deepbridge Creek, each comprising 8 x 32-metre spans

2 x 112.1-metre-long bridges over the Main Northern Railway

sediment basins to control run-off


The new contract significantly expands Thiess’ existing role in the project to include construction of all 18 Field Compression Stations (FCSs) and four Central Processing Plants (CPPs).

Signing the contract with QGC’s QCLNG Project Director Mitch Ingram, Thiess Managing Director Bruce Munro paid tribute to the relationship established between the two companies.

“We’re proud of the strength of our relationship and the value we bring to the QCLNG project through the depth of our expertise in LNG, and our ability to manage the logistics of this contract over such a vast geographical area,” Bruce said.

“We’ve been working on this for two years with QGC and this contract is the culmination of that partnership.

“Thiess has proven we have the disciplines in-house required to complete this project and help realise QGC’s vision to export LNG by 2014,” he said.

Mitch Ingram said the contract was a significant step for the project and a key milestone for the QCLNG Upstream.

“Basically it puts all fixed infrastructure in place which feeds all the gas up to Curtis Island,” he said.

Mitch also acknowledged the strong relationship that had been built with Thiess over the past 18 months saying QGC had wanted to develop that further.

“We saw good synergy in taking the lessons learnt in the south of the Surat Basin and having Thiess apply those in the north.”

Thiess is currently ramping up its workforce in the Surat Basin to a forecast peak of 2,600 by early 2014 and will undertake all civil, mechanical, piping, instrument and electrical work in constructing and pre-commissioning the facilities.

the new cOntract rePlaces the $325 million agreement signed in FebrUary 2012 For ConstrUCtion oF six fcss and One cPP, and exPands the geOgraPhic range Of the wOrKs frOm sites near dalby and miles tO inclUde PrOjects near chinchilla and wandOan.

TH I e S S AND QGC S I G N l A N d M A R k C O N T R A C T

thiess has been awarded a landmark $1.8 billion ContraCt by Coal seam gas PrOdUcer Qgc fOr cOnstrUctiOn Of gas cOmPressiOn facilities and assOciated wOrKs fOr the Qclng PrOject in the sUrat basin.


The team comprises technical specialists from across the company – with many having supported some of Thiess’ most complex infrastructure projects. They provide geotechnical, structural, civil and temporary works expertise to the business.

Manager Engineering Omar Shahin said the stronger internal capability gives clients a distinct quality and commercial advantage.

“A significant benefit is closing the gap between the design and construct stages of a project,” Omar said.

“The capability of our in-house experts aligns designs to our systems, programs and construction methodologies, which better positions us to design out risk whenever possible and manage it more effectively during delivery.”

The expansion of Thiess’ technical capability mirrors the shift of recent years to more city-centric infrastructure, often demanding innovative solutions to complex urban challenges, alongside multi-disciplinary regional projects.

The team provides advanced design management capability and technical assistance to projects.

“This improves the ability of our project teams to develop best-for-project, robust design solutions that improve constructability and quality as well as safety, environmental and community outcomes,” Omar said.

For example, through a highly-interactive process with the client, the winning Moreton Bay Rail Link design includes geotechnical solutions set to increase construction efficiency, lower risk,

thiess has bOlstered its design and risK management caPability tO increase cOnstrUctiOn efficiency and lOwer risK.

reduce time and materials, and improve ongoing operations and maintenance.

On the Frederickton to Eungai Pacific Highway Upgrade in New South Wales, the team is trialling a new GIS linked real-time instrumentation and monitoring database for greater efficiency and control.

Senior Engineering Manager Jeremy Kruger said global leaders leveraged strong in-house technical teams to create significant value for clients.

“When design is tightly matched to a project’s core drivers and the way the construction company operates, you achieve better outcomes,” Jeremy said.


thiess’ lOngstanding cOmmitment tO the PrOPerty indUstry fOUndatiOn (Pif) cOntinUes with the laUnch Of a creative fUndraising camPaign thrOUgh the wynyard walK PrOject in the heart Of sydney.

already raised

jUne 2015 target

fuNDrA IS ING C AMpA IGN supports youth at risk

$38,000 $77,000

Established by leading industry organisations, PIF helps at-risk and homeless youth get their lives back on track. It distributes donations and provides in-kind building services to several children’s charities and connects youth with work opportunities.

Its most exciting initiative is the creation of PIF houses for youth at risk. Thiess has been a strategic partner from the beginning and, today, Wynyard Walk’s ‘missing bricks’ campaign is attracting massive support.

The project team has established a wall in their site office displaying missing bricks and project partners are able to purchase a missing gold, silver or bronze brick for $5,000, $3,000 or $1,000 respectively.

More than $38,000 has been raised in the campaign’s first two months.

The Wynyard Walk project team has committed to raising at least $77,000 by June 2015.

PIF CEO Rosemary Smithson recently visited the Wynyard Walk site to acknowledge the generosity of everyone involved in the project.

“Support from companies like Thiess has given us the confidence to expand into Melbourne and hopefully Queensland in the near future,” she said.

“There is an incredible opportunity to replicate these PIF homes. They are another way the industry can give back using its skills and networks.”

Project Administration Manager Michael Gad said platinum membership of PIF in NSW was strongly aligned with Thiess’ values as the company seeks to support its local communities.

“We recognise the importance of technical excellence to Thiess. Drawing together the expertise we had across the business and building on our core capability is giving us a greater capacity to bring smart solutions to the fore,” he said.

Thiess’ new engineering team joins a 40-strong group of business processes, spatial engineering, controls and planning, and estimating specialists, connecting projects with the latest industry advancements, innovations and methodologies.

(L-R) Dixie Hogland (PIF), Rosemary Smithson (CEO – PIF) receive the first cheque from Project Administration Manager Michael Gad and Senior Project Engineer Chris Buchan.


the regiOnal rail linK PrOject in victOria has revOlUtiOnised the delivery Of majOr rail infrastrUctUre.

rAIl FEATURE


Occupations are critical to delivering major rail projects in live rail environments because they allow work to be carried out that isn’t possible when trains are running – normally overnight or on designated weekends.

Thiess is part of an Alliance delivering the Footscray to Deer Park (FDP) section of the Regional Rail Link project, Australia’s largest public transport infrastructure project. The Alliance, together with the Regional Rail Link Authority, Public Transport Victoria, Metro Trains Melbourne and V/Line, has developed an alternative ‘major occupation’ strategy allowing rail infrastructure work to be delivered over long durations of up to three weeks, rather than multiple short occupations.

General Manager Rail Glenn McIlroy said the major occupations enabled FDP to improve efficiency, accelerate its program, minimise ongoing impacts on the local community and provide early benefits to road and rail travellers. Fewer occupations also reduce risk in terms of handing back the rail network on time after construction work.

“We trialled the major occupation strategy for the first time in December 2012,” Glenn explained. “The extended construction window allowed us to complete a significant amount of work in a concentrated period of time and minimised time spent accessing and handing back the network. It also allowed more time to plan works between larger, less frequent occupations.”

Alliance representative for Metro Trains Melbourne Chris Rhodes said the major occupation strategy also minimised impacts on train commuters.

“We need to replace trains with buses during an occupation and it’s less disruptive for our customers to take a bus trip every few months rather than every weekend,” he said. “From an operations perspective it’s also easier for us to manage alternative transport arrangements.”

The major occupation strategy was implemented at Easter and again in June this year, during a 16-day occupation over the school holidays. During this time, more than 110,000 man-hours were worked to deliver $45 million worth of infrastructure including:

more than 2,000 metres oF new oVerhead wiring installed

6,500 tonnes oF ballast plaCed

more than 2,000 metres oF new traCk and almost 3,000 new sleepers laid

more than 750 metres oF new Cable rOUte installed.

In a first for Victoria and following the success of the previous occupations, the team carried out another nine-day occupation in October – this time outside of school holidays.

Glenn said the Alliance was continually focused on leveraging lessons learnt to date.

“We know that locking in a clear scope of work early is critical, allowing the team to plan and program the work, and to communicate with stakeholders in a timely manner,” Glenn said.

“We also know that sequencing the program from the end of the occupation to the start is the most effective because it ensures we allocate enough time for the signalling and overhead teams to complete their planned work to ensure we hand back on time.

“The effective management of the occupation control room is another critical success factor as it allows the Occupation Manager to maintain a helicopter view of the overall work while other members of the team are deployed to manage issues as they arise.

“The control room is also responsible for monitoring all activities. Full program reviews are typically completed every four hours to assess if any additional resources or re-sequencing is required. Pre-determined decision points are assessed so that go/no-go decisions can be made and contingency plans activated if necessary.

“This is a process we’ve developed to de-risk handback and it means there are no surprises in those final hours of the occupation. We can say with confidence that we will hand the railway back and get the trains running again on time, as promised.”

Expertise and innovation gained

across 20 major rail projects throughout

Australia

Delivering excellence in large, complex rail

infrastructure projects (brownfield and

greenfield)

60-year track record delivering world class rail

design, construction, operation and maintenance

Our in-house integrated team offers greater

productivity, improved rail safety and value

for clients

experIeNCeD exCelleNCe WHOle-Of-lIfe VAlueD pArTNer


TrackStar was established in 2006 to meet the Queensland Government’s efficiency requirements and brings together the expertise of Thiess (construction partner), Queensland Rail, Aurecon and AECOM.

Alliance Manager Brad Jackson says Stage 2 of the Darra to Springfield Transport Corridor Project is on track for train services to commence in early December 2013.

“The project started in late 2011 and is definitely on track despite a late start and weather problems throughout the project,” he said.

TrACkSTAr l E A d S T h E w A y

The Richlands to Springfield project extends the corridor with 9.5 kilometres of dual track line and two new state-of-the-art stations at Springfield and Springfield Central. For the first time, Springfield residents will have public transport choices.

“We won the project because TrackStar’s fully integrated design options, particularly station designs and solutions around the Logan Motorway Intersection saved taxpayers millions of dollars,” Brad said.

traCkstar allianCe is on target to deliVer the $350 million riChlands tO sPringfield rail PrOject On time and Under bUdget thanKs tO rObUst design and innOvative cOnstrUctiOn.

In parallel with the rail corridor works, the alliance is upgrading the Centenary Highway between the Logan Motorway Interchange, Forest Lake and Springfield Parkway.

“Key to our success is our understanding of Queensland Rail’s requirements. For instance we know the intricacies of how to interact with their rail systems work, which is being completed simultaneously.”

Queensland Rail’s Network Program Governance and Performance Specialist John King says this understanding and the innovations developed on the project have led to significant cost savings without compromising outcomes.

“Through TrackStar, Thiess provides solutions and works through issues to improve design and delivery,” he said.

“The company is willing to adopt a best-for-project approach to any challenge and can be trusted to deliver.”

The project also boasts an excellent safety record with a recordable injury frequency rate of 3.4 and this stems from the focus, on day one, to minimise risks such as working at heights.

“We used innovative formwork systems, particularly around the work on the Logan Motorway Interchange, to minimise working at heights and improve efficiency,” he said.

“Innovative formwork was also used for the arch construction at Springfield Central Station, eliminating a potential delay and finishing the job ahead of schedule,” Brad said.

“Working with the formwork subcontractor, we designed a self-propelled soffit formwork, which removed the need for stripping the formwork and re-erecting it, minimising cranage and enhancing safety.”

Brad says the longevity of the TrackStar team and an injection of new blood and ideas every step of the way has been key to getting the right outcomes for the client.

“We won the project because TrackStar’s fully integrated design options, particularly station designs and solutions around the logan Motorway Intersection, saved taxpayers millions of dollars.”brad jacKsOn, Alliance Manager

rAIl FEATURE

In July, the Thiess-led TrackStar team was awarded the contract to design and construct the greenfield MBR project which has been on the drawing board for more than 100 years. Thiess will also deliver the brownfield 1.5 kilometre Lawnton to Petrie Third Track Project in partnership with Queensland Rail.

The $1.147 billion project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, and Moreton Bay Regional Council.

“Combining Thiess’ rail and construction expertise with the capability of our TrackStar partners – Aurecon, AECOM, HASSELL and Golder Associates – we were able to offer the smartest solutions and deliver the greatest cost and time efficiencies,” Queensland business unit General Manager Jason Spears said.

“The dual Early Contractor Involvement process and our experience enabled us to develop our own innovative design which, combined with our ability to deliver a multidisciplinary scope, proved to be the winning difference.”

MBR Project Director Andrew Large said the team had committed to identifying every possible innovation to develop the best approach for a fully-integrated transport solution.

“Our design connects with existing rail and road infrastructure and is ‘future proofed’ for this growing region,” he said.

“We’re setting the scene for future transit-orientated developments centered around highly-visible stations that enhance connections over and under the rail corridor, and optimise interchange opportunities between rail, car and buses.”

Part of Thiess’ winning strategy was to maximise greenfield operations, enabling Queensland Rail to maintain network operations during construction. Andrew said this approach, linked with a proven track record in brown and greenfield rail delivery, made Thiess the right choice.

“Our solution delivers improved grade separation, optimised alignment and reduced earthworks which will minimise disruption to the community during construction and operation,” he said.

“We’ve introduced innovations at every station precinct to deliver benefits including greater accessibility, visibility and surveillance opportunities, as well as improved safety and security.

“Importantly, our design integrates with future infrastructure extensions and planned works, with the stations set to become hubs for future regional development.”

a 12.6 kilometre rail link ConneCting the greater brisbane rail netwOrK frOm Petrie tO the raPidly grOwing

mOretOn bay area

new statiOns at KiPPa-ring, rOthwell, mangO hill east, mangO hill, mUrrUmba

dOwns and KallangUr

a train stabling facility at KiPPa-ring

a shared User Path alOng the entire length Of the alignment.

ThE pROjECT IS DUE FOR

DelIVery IN lATE 2016.

MBR includes

Announcing the award of the new contract (L-R) former federal MP for Petrie Yvette D’Ath, Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Allan Sutherland, MLA for Kallangur Trevor Ruthenberg,

Thiess General Manager Queensland Jason Spears, Minister for Transport Scott Emerson, MLA for Murrumba Reg Gulley and Thiess General Manager Rail Glenn McIlroy.


rAIl FEATURE

I NN OVAT I ON key to MBR wininnOvative design, a cOst-effective sOlUtiOn and the right PeOPle were the Keys tO winning the lOng-awaited mOretOn bay rail (mbr) PrOject nOrth Of brisbane.

Project Manager Dean Purdy said time constrained every element of the design and construct project which involved the staged construction of a 550-metre rail grade separation in the middle of a live rail environment.

“Our scope was to construct an underpass near Victoria Street, five kilometres from Adelaide’s CBD, taking the Seaford line below ground level and leaving the Belair and freight lines above,” Dean said.

“The upgrade was part of the revitalisation of South Australia’s metropolitan network which

included electrification of the Seaford line and the shut-down of three metropolitan train lines along the corridor for a period of time.

“The client gave us this window of opportunity to complete the underpass as part of an accelerated procurement process.”

With the time dictating the team’s approach to design, safety, environment and stakeholder relationships, as well as delivery, a highly-planned sequencing of staged construction milestones was critical to success.

“The momentum and focus we needed meant getting absolute alignment with our joint venture partner York Civil very quickly,” Dean said.

“It also meant getting motivated, experienced people in the right positions early and establishing accountability around safety, communication and environment, so each milestone occurred according to plan.”

Separating freight and passenger services

the seParatiOn Of freight and Passenger rail services at gOOdwOOd jUnctiOn will sPeed UP the mOvement Of freight trains thrOUgh adelaide, imPrOve the reliability Of Passenger services, ease traffic cOngestiOn arOUnd the cbd and bOOst natiOnal PrOdUctivity.

Completed on time with no lTIs

cOmPleted On time and with nO lOst time injUries the PrOject team received client accOlades fOr the cOllabOrative, OPen and hOnest aPPrOach shOwn in their staKehOlder relatiOnshiPs.

Overcoming challenges to deliver

the team's ability tO deliver the PrOject in eight mOnths reflects a cOmmitment tO OvercOming the challenges assOciated with designing and cOnstrUcting a cOmPlex rail seParatiOn in a live rail envirOnment in inner-sUbUrban adelaide, and a determinatiOn tO cOmPlete a ‘missiOn imPOssible’.

» » »

GOODWOOD TeAM surpasses expectationsthe thiess rail team delivered the $45 million goodwood jUnCtion Upgrade within eight mOnths fOr the sOUth aUstralian dePartment Of Planning and transPOrt.


rAIl FEATURE


fOUr cUstOm made tUnnel bOring machines (tbms) will be dePlOyed tO deliver sydney’s nOrth west rail linK’s (nwrl) 15-kilometre twin tUnnels – the lOngest rail tUnnels in aUstralian histOry – as Part Of the $1.15 billion tUnnels and station CiVil works ContraCt.

The visionary New South Wales rapid transit project is set to transform the city’s public transport infrastructure and brings together joint venture partners Thiess and John Holland, who have built 70 per cent of Australia’s major underground infrastructure over the past 10 years, and international partner Dragados.

The first of four double-shield, hard rock, gripper TBMs will be assembled on site and commence tunnelling before the end of 2014 and three more will follow soon after.

Project Director Terry Sleiman said procurement, logistics and operation of the TBMs were just some of the challenges facing the project team.

“We’re working in a highly urbanised environment, including boring under homes and businesses and moving approximately 2.8 million tonnes of crushed rock by road,” Terry said.

“Communication will be everything. Our community managers are integrated with local construction teams to be highly responsive in reducing impacts on the community and keeping them informed.

“With safety at the forefront, our detailed design and construction planning is working through the geotechnical issues and the rigorous requirements for an operational rail tunnel.”

with an estimated 650 workers at PeaK, the PrOject is set tO leave a POsitive wOrKfOrce legacy thrOUgh a training PrOgram sPecifically designed fOr the PrOject by the jv Partners.

“Our plan is to grow tunnelling capability for this and future Sydney projects, so we’re developing an accredited training program to ensure even our newer recruits meet our high safety and quality standards,” Terry said.

Thiess’ Executive General Manager Construction John Barraclough said the team’s strength and understanding of the project’s requirements, including environmental and community needs, ultimately won the job.

“We always believed we had the people and processes and the JV partner relationships gave that certainty of delivery,” John said.

As the project team closely monitors the TBM design in France and China, plans for their voyage to Australia are also ramping up.

The tunnelling contract also includes civil works for five of eight new stations and two service facilities and is due for completion in 2017.

A complex staging program ensured works continued safely and efficiently without delays.

Ongoing engagement with ARTC established agreed interfaces and access procedures to ensure an exclusion zone was maintained around the live rail line.

Thiess led fortnightly community engagement meetings to ensure openness and transparency around the issues, and their timely and appropriate resolution.

Precision planning delivered a sequenced program of construction that focused the team on achieving milestones with maximum efficiency.

COMpleTING THe upGrADe WITHIN AN 8-MONTH WINDOW Of OppOrTuNITy

prOGreSSING WOrkS IN A 30-MeTre CONGeSTeD COrrIDOr

uNDerTAkING A GrADe SepArATION WHIle ArTC CONTINueD freIGHT SerVICeS

MANAGING COMMuNITy IMpACTS ON A HIGHly VISIble prOJeCT IN SuburbAN ADelAIDe

Solution

Solution

Solution

Solution

»

»

»

»

fOur T bMs tackle tunnel challenge

CHAlleNGe

CHAlleNGe

CHAlleNGe

CHAlleNGe

rAIl FEATURE


The value of the current program of works for the framework agreement is $500 million across the first three years of Water Plan 3. The joint venture is one of two service providers competing for the work in discrete packages on an ongoing basis.

Victorian Business Unit General Manager Rod Heale says the contract is the largest in Victoria’s water industry in the past three years.

“It’s a great outcome and highlights our national water sector expertise which is complemented by local knowledge,” he said.

The framework involves Design Only, Design and Construct, and Construct Only work across two sub-programs of work – treatment plants and transfer/pipelines.

Under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Thiess is responsible for all Construct Only work and Design and Construct work for transfer/pipelines, and will deliver all Design and Construct treatment plant work jointly with Black & Veatch.

Thiess Manager – Water Rob Evans says clients are benefiting from the increased value of Thiess’ national approach combined with regional business unit know-how.

“Our clients see the value in a team that can offer integrated, multidisciplinary expertise,” he said.

thiess, thrOUgh its services bUsiness, has a lOng tracK recOrd Of wOrKing with melbOUrne water having delivered a brOad range Of civil maintenance and minOr caPital wOrKs acrOss metrOPOlitan melbOUrne and beyOnd For 19 years.

thiess, in jOint ventUre with blacK & veatch, has been aPPOinted tO melbOUrne water’s PrOgram service PrOviders Framework For the water plan 3 Capital program.

Thiess JV appointed to

M e l bOurNe WAT er pAN e l

25THIESS • DIRECTIONS SUMMER 2013/2014

real liFe, solid 3d models are bringing a new dimensiOn tO thiess’ infrastrUctUre PrOjects, creating new OPPOrtUnities tO cOmmUnicate design and cOnstrUctiOn challenges and sOlUtiOns.

Thiess has imported the first Projet 860 printer into Australia, giving project teams access to the biggest rapid prototyping machine in Australia.

This new in-house capability is being used on a range of construction and mining projects to transform 2D CAD data into scaled 3D models that make complex concepts simple and easy to understand.

Thiess Project Engineer Mark Keane has been one of the first to commission a model for a complex portion of the Wynyard Walk underground pedestrian tunnel in the heart of Sydney. He is using it to demonstrate some of the constructability challenges to a range of stakeholders including design teams, subcontractors and the client.

“The original design for this section of the tunnel involved two different shapes interlocking, requiring intricate formwork which was difficult to visualise,” Mark said.

“The 3D model allows us to see inside the tunnel and confirm which design options and formwork will deliver the best outcome, as well identify construction solutions to challenges before they occur on site.”

25

“It’s enabling the team to visually assess options on the proposed structure and explore work sequences ... ultimately ensuring a better outcome.”lance Kirby, PROJECT MANAGER

Project Manager Lance Kirby has commissioned a model of a five-storey building the team will construct on Clarence Street, creating a key connection point between the existing Wynyard Station and the new tunnel. With two floors above and three levels below ground, the model is playing a critical role in the building’s design development.

“It’s enabling the team to visually assess options on the proposed structure and explore work sequences with consultants and contractors, ultimately ensuring a better outcome.”

Mark believes having the capability to produce these models in-house creates new

opportunities to add value and improve stakeholder communication across the project.

“3D models provide a new way of communicating which doesn’t require technical understanding of high-end CAD design, making it easier to explain and

conceptualise our ideas and designs,” he said.

3 d p R I N T I N GB U I l d S new dimension

Managing Director Bruce Munro and CAD Manager Ryan Scott inspect the new Wynyard Walk building model.

28 MINING DIGS DEEP TO DELIVER VALUE

30 THIESS INDONESIA MARKS MILESTONE

32 GOLD MINE DEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY

33 ‘CAN DO’ ATTITUDE DELIVERS RESULTS

Thiess and RWE have formed a global joint venture (TRWE), becoming the first international JV to provide a full suite of in-house design, engineering, operation and maintenance services for open-pit continuous mining equipment, including bucket wheel excavator systems and in-pit crushing and conveying systems (IPCC).

The JV combines RWE’s internationally-renowned continuous mining equipment engineering, operations and maintenance capability with Thiess’ proven, large-scale contract mining expertise to deliver low-cost, sustainable continuous mining solutions.

Speaking at the JV signing ceremony, Thiess Managing Director Bruce Munro said the agreement launched the company into a new field of opportunity.

“TRWE will provide services across the whole continuous mining value chain, including full on-site operations, ensuring best practice performance of these low cost systems wherever we are engaged.

“Once TRWE operations are established in Australia and Indonesia, we are keen to leverage our existing international relationships and expand further into Asia and the Americas,” Mr Munro said.

RWE Vice President Wolfgang Kortmann, who attended the ceremony, said the past five years had seen significant growth in the application of continuous mining equipment and IPCC equipment which has been accompanied by direct improvements in production efficiency.

“Given the rising costs and declining productivity of some conventional mining applications in Australia, together with ongoing exposure to fluctuating commodity prices, a similar positive shift in the demand for these lower costs continuous mining systems in Australia and beyond is imminent,” Mr Kortmann said.

While dragline and truck/shovel applications will continue to be the major mining methods for many open-cut projects, deeper deposits will require more efficient technologies such as those offered by TRWE. The JV’s performance-based delivery model further enhances TRWE’s value proposition.

The JV’s General Manager, Matthew Langmaid, is truly excited by the global partnership.

“The JV is perfectly positioned as the only global and vendor independent partner to the mining industry for continuous mining systems,” he said.

Thiess and RWE

CreATe GlObAl pArTNerSH Ipthiess and One Of eUrOPe’s leading POwer generatOrs and lignite miners rwe generatiOn se (rwe) have fOrmed an exclUsive PartnershiP, which is set tO deliver significant savings fOr high-vOlUme cOntinUOUs mining aPPlicatiOns in aUstralia and Overseas.

MINING

RWE’s unique CME technical and operational experience in open-cast mines, together with Thiess’ proven capability to integrate large-scale project development and contract mining services, perfectly positions TRWE for international success.


Executive General Manager Australian Mining Michael Wright says the business is testing industry norms by looking at new ways to deliver a world-class service through improved productivity and efficiency.

“In the past 12 months, we’ve made critical changes to boost our competitiveness at a time when the industry is consolidating and mine owners are taking back their operations,” he said.

“We are more flexible and scalable in our approach and while we continue to provide whole-of-mine solutions, clients can also selectively draw on our specialist expertise across any stage of the mining project life cycle.

“Whether pre-strip operations, dozer push technology, plant operation and maintenance, dry hire of equipment, drill and blasting services, mine planning or off-site plant rebuilds, we’re able to tailor our services to suit our clients’ needs.”

Michael says collaboration is the key to helping clients in the current downturn.

“We are committed to working with our clients and being responsive to their needs,” he said.

“Each contract is unique and tailoring our approach allows us to deliver smarter outcomes, creating greater certainty for our clients when they need it most”.

innOvatiOn is anOther a game changer and here the mining bUsiness is On the frOnt fOOt Using a range Of new technOlOgies tO give mine Owners greater visibility Over OPeratiOnal efficiency and PrOdUctivity.

“Most importantly, we’re taking innovation to another level. Our technical engineering team, a ‘centre of excellence’ in its own right, is connecting our frontline operators with industry-leading technology and best practice,” Michael said.

“Our technology platforms are capturing data that enables us to deliver improved safety, planning and engineering, productivity, maintenance and asset management. Giving our field people access to these vast data sets will deliver lower cost solutions.”

We’re also leveraging our operational experience and collaborating with OEMs to enhance plant performance. For example, our people have developed the Isolation and Starter Protection Electrical Upgrade (ISPU), effectively a collection of modifications for large Liebherr excavators.

The application of this system simplifies the isolation process, and assists in the prevention of equipment damage as a result of improper machine operation. The ISPU reduces the potential for electrical faults and improves operator safety and equipment protection.

“While technology is not a panacea, it’s central to identifying those marginal gains which will give our clients a commercial edge,” Michael said.

“With more than 60 years of mining history under our belts, we’ve seen the best and the worst of times. It’s our capacity to adapt to these changes quickly and to drive efficiencies, providing added value to our clients that sets us apart.

“We’re here for the long-haul – and even during these uncertain times, we remain committed to working in partnership with mine owners to optimise their operations and achieve mutual success.”

Mining digs deep to

De l I V e r VA lu ethe aUstralian mining sectOr is UndergOing raPid transfOrmatiOn tO KeeP Pace with glObal marKets and increased cOmPetitiveness,

and OUr mining bUsiness is stePPing UP tO the challenge.

DrIll AND blAST

DOzer puSH TeCHNOlOGy plANT OperATION AND MAINTeNANCe pre-STrIp OperATIONS

“We are more flexible and scalable in our approach and while we continue to provide whole-of-mine solutions, clients can also selectively draw on our specialist expertise across any stage of the mining project life cycle.”michael wright, Executive General Manager Mining



Thiess Indonesia

MArkS M I l eSTONethis year thiess Celebrates its 25th anniversary Of OPeratiOns in indOnesia.

Completed first telecommunications

project – Central Java telephone network

expansion

Awarded first oil and gas project – Pangkalan Brandan

LPG Plant

Thiess Contractors Indonesia is officially

incorporated

Asian Financial Crisis hit and new work declined

Won two major construction projects – INCO expansion and Newmont Batu Hijau Mine Infrastructure

Secured largest single contract – $800m for Satui and Senakin coal

mines

Purchased land for the Balikpapan

Support Facility

Established first apprenticeship

program

Commenced Tanah Merah

Village Project for BP Berau

1988

1990

1992

1993

1997

1999

2000

2002

2003

Won $1.1b life-of-mine contract for

Sangatta Coal Mine


PT Thiess Contractors was established in November 1988 and since that time our operations now turn over more than US$820 million and we employ about 9,000 people across mining and construction.

“During those years, the business has managed the ups and downs of Indonesia’s growing economy and political cycles,” President Director Roy Olsen said.

Won $500m contract for project extension and an additional Kinong pit at Melak Coal Mine Project

Balikpapan Support Facility

commenced operation

First site FM Radio aired at Sangatta Coal Mine Project

Satui Project achieved 11 million man hours

LTI free

Won $393m contract for the greenfield Tamtama

Coal Mine Project in Central Kalimantan

Head office moved to current offices at Ratu Prabu 2

building

Senakin achieved 3 years and Vale project

8 years LTI free

Sorowako team completed Logistic Road Rehabilitation and Airport Runway

Upgrade for Vale

Broke ground on the Solo-

Ngawi toll road construction

project

Employee numbers reached more than 9,800

across Indonesia

Balikpapan Support Facility recorded 5 years and Melak

project 3 years LTI free

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2011

2012

2013

Sangatta Coal Mine Project recorded

3 years lost time injury (LTI) free

Won $841m total mining services

contract at Melak Coal Mine Project

“While there have been challenges along the way, the team’s determination to succeed has enabled our operations to go from strength to strength.

“Today, we can proudly look back on a legacy of great projects and look forward to many more in the years ahead,” he said.

“Today, we can proudly look back on a legacy of great projects and look forward to many more in the years ahead.”

rOy Olsen, PRESIDENT DIRECTOR

PT Sago Prima Pratama awarded Thiess the US$30 million contract in April this year with mobilisation commencing in May as part of a tightly-planned and executed schedule.

The 329-strong team has been delivering construction and installation works for the mine’s processing plant which will have a production capacity of 66,000 ounces of gold

per annum. The team has also undertaken civil and construction works for all associated infrastructure including a 900-person camp and adjacent wharf.

President Director Roy Olsen said the contract reaffirms Thiess’ strength in the market and our 25-year history in constructing infrastructure for resources projects Indonesia.

PT Sago Prima Pratama is a subsidiary of PT J Resources Nusantara, an Indonesian gold mining company with several mine operations in Kalimantan, North Sulawesi and Malaysia.

GOlD M INe De VelOpMeNTunderway

thiess in indOnesia is develOPing the serUyUng gOld mine in nOrth kalimantan with First gold oUtpUt expeCted in deCember 2013.



‘Can do’ attitude

De l I V e rS r e Su lTSa ‘dOzer-PUsh’ PilOt at middlemOUnt OPen-cUt mine in the bOwen

basin has shOwcased thiess’ cOmmitment tO delivering client valUe.

IN AppOINTING THIeSS, OUR CLIENT KNEW THEY WOULD GET

100 per CeNT EnVIROnMEnTAl, SAFETy AnD COMMunITy COMPlIAnCE uSInG THE

beST SySTeMS AVAILABLE

Middlemount Coal awarded a contract for the pilot in February, giving Thiess six months to prove the viability of the low-cost ‘dozer-push’ method at the mine.

Mining Support Manager Bob Butcher said the fiercely-contested win was an opportunity for Thiess to prove that a Tier 1 contractor can effectively deliver a low-cost solution without compromising operational excellence.

“In appointing Thiess, our client knew they’d get 100 per cent environmental, safety and community compliance using the best systems available,” Bob said.

“What we’ve clearly demonstrated on this project is that Thiess’ people also bring a ‘can do’ attitude that will get the very best hours out of our equipment and achieve the best possible production outcomes for our client.”

Mine management was left in little doubt about this when just two weeks prior to the team’s mobilisation to site, a flood event severed the mine’s levee bank and filled the pit with 5.5 gigalitres of water. The team quickly reassessed its approach to enable the mud and slurry to be removed as part of its initial dozer push.

“We crowded the water and silt away from the coal seam to allow the client access to the premium coal laying up to 10 metres beneath the water and thick mud,” Bob said.

“Our flexibility and determination enabled the mine to access the coal quickly and get back to full coal production one month earlier than initially anticipated.

“Within four months of the flood, the mine was achieving record washery throughputs and has gone on to achieve above target throughputs every month.”

36 WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP STEPS UP TO BUSHFIRE CHALLENGE

38 SHOWCASING REMEDIATION ExPERTISE

39 ORICA PROJECT WINS AWARD

the acQUisitiOn Of silcar has secUred thiess’ POsitiOn as One Of aUstralia’s leading services

cOmPanies, creating a highly-cOmPetitive and technically-resPected OrganisatiOn.

Silcar had been a 50/50 joint venture between Thiess and the global engineering technology company Siemens, when Thiess moved to acquire 100 per cent ownership in July this year.

Silcar and Thiess had been rolling out the National Broadband Network across the eastern states, a contract Thiess now assumes full responsibility to deliver.

General Manager Integration Pat Burke said the acquisition reinforces Thiess’ strength across the full spectrum of project delivery.

“Silcar was much more than a telecommunications services provider,” Pat said.

“Specialist teams bring mechanical and electrical maintenance and plant operations expertise across the power generation, renewable energy, resources, industrial and telecommunications sectors.

“Silcar also further complements our established asset management capability.

“These skills supplement our existing business, boost our capability and strengthen our credentials as a principal provider of O&M services and ongoing capital works programs.”

Pat said Thiess is now uniquely placed to offer clients a true whole-of-life solution that optimises long-term asset value while streamlining design and delivery.

“We can plan, design, construct and commission an asset, as well as provide O&M services for the operating period. In fact, we’re the one contractor who can do everything – offering the full spectrum of services, delivering lower risk and greater certainty of costs,” he said.

THIESS • DIRECTIONS WINTER 2013

SERVICES

Wind and solar generation and grid energy storage

Transmission and distribution works for gas and electricity networks

High voltage testing services

Power quality, availability and resilience solutions

Equipment environment management including shelters, racking, HVAC and monitoring

General electrical works

Operations and maintenance

Facilities management

Asset management

New infrastructure

Network planning and design

Construction

Commissioning

Procurement and logistics

Capital works programs

Remediation

Environmental monitoring

Occupational health and hygiene

STreNGTHeNeD CApAbIlITeS ACrOSS 4 BUSINESS UNITS

Thiess is now uniquely placed to offer clients a true whole-of-life solution that optimises long-term asset value while streamlining design and delivery.

energy sOlUtiOns

asset and infrastrUctUre services

cOmmUnicatiOns

engineering and envirOnmental services


SERVICES

The $175 million, five-year contract spans mechanical and electrical maintenance as well as facilities management, and is the largest water maintenance contract in Australia. It covers 13,000 square kilometres of greater Sydney and Wollongong including management of 35 treatments plants, more than 800 pumping stations and 2,500 buildings.

The partnership recently faced its first test following the devastating October bushfires, working alongside Sydney Water to restore essential community services.

With 16 specialists in the field, and an additional six managing the emergency control centre, Thiess played a lead role in maintaining and restoring water supplies critical to the fire fighting effort as well as maintaining sanitation services to affected residential communities including Yellow Rock, Winmalee and Nepean.

The demanding mechanical and electrical services work ensured rapid repairs to the region’s water treatment plant, re-establishment of household electrical services, and maintenance of pumping stations.

Thiess’ Manager Business Improvement Asset and Infrastructure Hugh Campbell said the around-the-clock support required unprecedented teamwork.

“Our services business has helped communities regain core services after floods, cyclones and bushfires for decades,” Hugh said.

“We can all be proud of the way our team responded.”

The Sydney Water contract combines mechanical and electrical maintenance with facilities management and is unique in Australia.

with a tOtal catchment Of mOre than 1.8 million homes and 4.5 million people, the services team had tO cOntinUe its traditiOnal cOntract wOrK while mobilising more than 20 people to PrOvide emergency sUPPOrt.

Sydney Water is already seeing the benefits of the new contract.

“It’s a really significant change for the Sydney Water in that it’s the first time we’ve combined OM and FM,” explains Sydney Water’s Field and Customer Service Manager, Millie Raskov.

“Partnering with an organisation as commercial as Thiess really changes the game plan,” she said.

“Thiess was able to submit a much better proposal than their competitors and deliver a really good solution.”

the services team has fOrtified its watershed PartnershiP with sydney water, inclUding PrOviding emergency services fOllOwing the recent devastating bUshfires in new sOUth wales.

Watershed partnership steps up to

b uSH f I r e CHA l l eNG e


SERVICES

WITH 16 SpeCIAlISTS IN THe fIelD, AnD An ADDITIOnAl SIx MAnAGInG THE EMERGENCY CONTROL CENTRE

THIeSS plAyeD A leAD rOle In MAInTAInInG AnD RESTORInG WATER SuPPlIES CRITICAl TO

THe fIrefIGHTING EFFORT


SERVICES

Thiess went on to plan and present a detailed solution for the site and the formal client/contractor relationship between the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Thiess was formed.

According to Sydney Harbour Federation Trust Project Director Peter Osmand Thiess demonstrated a very clear understanding of what was required on the project.

“The Thiess presentation was of such a high standard that it reflected a quality of work that is unusual in the remediation industry and we were very impressed by that,” Peter said.

For more than 50 years from 1876, the site was home to the north shore gas works where domestic gas supplies were generated from coal. The result was deep contamination in the soil from the tar-like waste products.

In the early 1940s this contamination was simply covered with concrete as the site became a torpedo factory and maintenance facility for the war effort. In 1967 it became the Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Platypus, the eastern seaboard base for Oberon class submarines.

Now the site faces a much brighter future as a community hub. The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Thiess are mindful of the legacy they will leave the people of Neutral Bay when the project is finished in February 2014.

Thiess is remediating 30,000 tonnes of contaminated soil within the confines of a vast Odour Control Enclosure (OCE) which protects surrounding residents from unpleasant odours and other environmental impacts.

The majority of the soil is being stabilised with cement and carbon and returned to the site as fill. Around 10 per cent has been treated and removed from site.

Beneath the surface, a concrete barrier wall is literally being injected down to the bedrock to permanently seal off the treated and stabilised soil from the water of Sydney Harbour.

Disturbance of the contaminated soil releases strong odours from the chemical compounds. These are captured by the OCE ventilation system and filtered to very rigorous standards, ensuring the vented air is virtually odour free.

Showcasing r eMe D I AT I ON e xp erT I S e

when thiess was first advised Of Plans by the sydney harbOUr federatiOn trUst tO remediate the Old gas wOrKs site in neUtral bay, the cOmPany Knew its exPert remediatiOn team wOUld be best tO handle this cOmPlex and challenging tasK in sUch a sensitive area.


SERVICES

As part of the remediation process, Thiess constructed a relocatable excavation soil building on site, providing a controlled environment to ensure the health of workers was protected from contaminated material.

An emission control system was also implemented to significantly reduce health risks to the surrounding community.

Thiess remediation expert Dr John Hunt says the internal walls and columns of the building could be relocated as excavation progressed.

“As the original storage cell liner used for the encapsulation of the contaminated material could not be breached during construction of the building, central columns on traditional piled footings could not be used,” he said.

“An alternative had to be found and the relocatable solution allowed us to excavate all of the material.”

The CARE Award is sponsored by the Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC CARE).

CRC CARE Managing Director Professor Ravi Naidu said Thiess’ system is a real step forward for the protection of contaminated site workers as well as local communities.

“It will make remediation work safer, and ultimately more efficient and cost effective.”

The project also won the inaugural Australasian Land and Groundwater Association Annual Clean Up Project Excellence Award and the Thiess Excellence Award for Sustainability.

thiess’ wOrK On the Orica car ParK waste encaPsUlatiOn remediatiOn PrOject in sydney has won the 2013 Care award For sUstainable technOlOgy and innOvatiOn.

O r I C A prO J eC T

Thiess remediation experts Ian Brookman and Dr John Hunt.

wins award

At the perimeter, a range of instruments are used to detect levels of odours and other contaminants to ensure environmental impacts are kept below limits.

Thiess Project Manager Jim Cole says both Thiess and the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust are focused on minimising community impacts and maximising community engagement.

“It’s really about getting out to the community, explaining what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and how we’re doing it,” Jim said.

“This is one of the iconic Sydney remediation projects which is a real pleasure to deliver.”

now the site faces a much brighter future as a community hub and the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Thiess are mindful of the legacy they will leave the people of neutral Bay.


In September, not-for-profit organisations across the Bowen Basin, Ipswich and Logan regions were invited to apply for up to $10,000 each as part of our corporate social responsibility program.

Executive General Manger Strategic Communication Mary Jane Bellotti said the initiative builds on Thiess’ strong and generous culture of giving.

“We appreciate that the communities where we live and work are important to our people and their families,” she said.

“Many of our people feel very strongly about giving to these communities and showing our support for local initiatives that need extra funding to help create brighter futures.”

Twenty-four education, environment and health organisations were successful, with funds invested in a diverse range of programs across the three regions.

COMMUNITy

grantsCare

CreATe br IGHTerfuTureS

twenty cOmmUnity grOUPs frOm central tO sOUth east QUeensland have received a share oF $100,000 in fUnding frOm thiess’ cOmmUnity grant scheme care.

bOwen basin regiOn

» Beaconsfield State School

» Capella State School P&C Association

» Making a Difference Program

» Mackay Youth Connections Network Inc.

» Incredable Ltd

» Mackay Children’s Contact Service Inc

» MADEC Ltd

» Dysart State High School

» Mackay North State School

» Dysart Family Fellowship.

lOgan and iPswich regiOn

» Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Limited

» Ipswich Meals on Wheels

» Westside Business Women Inc

» Lions Club of Greater Springfield

» Westside Community Care

» Westfalen Community Garden

» Woogaroo District Meals on Wheels

» Riverview Neighbourhood House

» OzHarvest

» Queensland Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association Crestmead / Logan City / Beenleigh Branches

» Imagehouse Youth Assistance Inc

» Logan East Community Neighbourhood Association, Inc. (LECNA)

$100kgifted

“We appreciate that the communities where we live and work are important to our people and their families.”mary-jane bellOtti, ExECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER,

STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION


COMMUNITy

The dedicated team rescues quality surplus food that would have otherwise been discarded and redistributes it to local charities that provide vital food relief to an increasing number of people.

The free service saves charities time and money while preventing tonnes of good food from going to landfill each day. In the two years since its inception, OzHarvest Brisbane has delivered more than 800,000 meals to those in need.

OzHarvest assists 50 charities from Caboolture to the Gold Coast and west to Logan and Ipswich.

Over the past few years the organisation has witnessed the growing need within the Logan and Ipswich region, and believes a dedicated OzHarvest vehicle supporting this region would be invaluable.

Thanks to Thiess Community Grants Program there will an immediate benefit to many charities and donors within the region. Over the next six months OzHarvest will collect and deliver an additional 5,000 meals and will continue to seek additional funding to ensure the project’s ongoing sustainability.

Helping those in needOzharvest PrOvides a vital and UniQUe linK between fOOd bUsinesses and lOcal charities.

VISIT THIESS.COM

TO reAD MOre AbOuThow the Care programIS HELPING THE

COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE

lIVe AND WOrk


The undisputed star of the competition was QUT engineering student Ian Macrae whose spaghetti bridge withstood a phenomenal 159.2 kilogram load to earn him the $5,000 first prize in the university category. The achievement challenges results recorded in Europe where spaghetti bridge competitions are fiercely contested.

In the high schools category, a two-student team called the Promethium Project from Brisbane Boys College (BBC) smashed last year’s school record of 9.996 kilogram with a bridge that took a load of 69.7 kilogram. The huge achievement won BBC the $5,000 schools prize for first place. Second in each category returned $2,500 and third $1,250.

It was the second year of the Spaghetti Bridge Competition held at the Thiess Discovery Hub at the Ekka. A total of 110 bridges were tested

to destruction using a special rig and load cell, kindly provided by the University of the Sunshine Coast. The competition showcased Queensland’s best and brightest potential engineering talent with eight bridges taking loads greater than 50 kilogram, in some cases more than the weight of their creators.

Thiess Managing Director Bruce Munro said the competition brought out students’ creativity as much as their competitiveness.

“We hold the competition so that students can experience the planning, problem solving and team work that goes into an engineering career and they met the challenge head on,” Bruce said.

“Students from four of our universities as well as high school teams from the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, and through to Ipswich and Toowoomba got involved which was great to see.”

Teams of up to four students faced the challenge of creating the strongest bridge using only spaghetti and glue. Bridges required a minimum span of 35 centimetres and maximum total weight of 300 grams. Bridges were load tested until they broke.

“This is a fun way for Thiess to inspire the next generation of construction, mining and services professionals and to invest in our university talent and high schools in the process,” Bruce said.

“We’re already planning next year’s competition, which will be part of Thiess’ 80th anniversary celebrations.”

reCOrDS T uMbl e as winners share in

$ 1 7, 5 0 0 S p A G h E T T I B R I d G E C O M p E T I T I O N

COMMUNITy

the 2013 thiess spaghetti bridge Competition has shattered last year’s benchmarK and challenged glObal recOrds as high schOOl and University

stUdents lined Up at the ekka to battle For a share in the $17,500 prize pool.

tO view the tOP resUlts visit thiesssPaghettibridge.cOm

From left the record winning spaghetti bridge and BBC students who took out the high schools category.

Directions is published by Thiess Pty Ltd. It is published with due care and attention to accuracy. If you do find information that is inaccurate, incomplete or out of date, please contact us.

[email protected]

head OfficeLevel 5 179 Grey Street South Bank Queensland 4101T: +61 7 3002 9000 F: +61 7 3002 9009

© Copyright Thiess Pty Ltd 2013. All rights reserved.

CONSTruCTION

HeAD OffICe

HeAD OffICe

HeAD OffICe

AuSTrAlIA

MINING

INDIA

INDONeSIA

cOrPOrate OfficeLevel 5 179 Grey StreetSouth Bank QLD 4101Tel: +61 7 3002 9000

nsw/actLevel 23 52 Martin PlaceSydney NSW 2000Tel: +61 2 8045 1000

vic/sa/tas/nzLevel 9 417 St Kilda RoadMelbourne VIC 3004Tel: +61 3 9864 8888

Level 2 101 Flinders StreetAdelaide SA 5000Tel: +61 8 8274 5200

waLevel 19, The Forrest Centre221 St Georges TerracePerth WA 6000Tel: +61 8 9214 4200

mining head OfficeThiess Place Level 5 143 Coronation DriveMilton QLD 4064Tel: +61 7 3037 5000

thiess india Pvt ltd5B RDB BoulevardBlock EP & GPSector V, Salt LakeKolkata 700091 West Bengal IndiaTel: +91 33 4010 5300

Pt thiess cOntractOrs indOnesia jaKarta head OfficeRatu Prabu 2Jl. TB. Simatupang Kav. 1BJakarta 12560IndonesiaTel: +62 21 2754 9999

CONNECT wITh US

QldLevel 7 189 Grey StreetSouth Bank QLD 4101Tel: +61 7 3121 8500

western regiOnLevel 2 56 Ord Street West Perth WA 6005Tel: +61 8 6218 3737

SerVICeS services head OfficeThe Precinct 2, Level 110 Browning StreetWest End QLD 4101Tel: +61 7 3169 8300

nswLevel 3 88 Phillip StreetParramatta NSW 2150Tel: +61 2 8892 5900

111 Vanessa StreetKingsgrove NSW 2208Tel: +61 2 9375 3200

vic25-37 Huntingdale RoadBurwood VIC 3125Tel: +61 3 9273 7600

For 80 years, Thiess has played a pivotal role in building vital infrastructure, delivering for the resources sector

and providing essential services for communities. Today, the company has amassed enormous depth and breadth of experience, and capabilities, to become one of Australia’s

leading construction, mining and services contractors.

1934 - 2014thiess.com

Published by Thiess Pty Ltd

ABN 87 010 221 486

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