Author: alyssa

We are pleased to welcome two new members to the DM Civil management team: Jae Teakle and Scott Burnett.


Jae joins us as HSEQ Manager, bringing extensive experience from Tier 1 multinational organisations, where she led safety teams and championed risk management initiatives. As a lead investigator and published author in the Society of Petroleum Engineers, Jae has contributed to industry advancements in fatality prevention and pragmatic risk assessment tools. Her early career in exploration geology, combined with over 20 years in safety, gives her a well-rounded perspective on field conditions and workplace risk.


Scott steps into the role of Human Resources Manager, bringing 30 years of leadership experience in HR across Tier 1 national mining and contracting firms. He has successfully led teams across payroll, recruitment, training, and broader HR functions. Since joining DM Civil, Scott has already demonstrated strong leadership and mentoring skills, playing a key role in developing and implementing new policies and processes to support the company’s growth in an evolving corporate environment.


With their wealth of knowledge and experience, Jae and Scott are valuable additions to our team, and we look forward to their contributions in shaping DM Civil’s future.

DM Civil is excited to introduce our new cohort of apprentices and trainees for 2025, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled tradespeople. This year’s intake features four promising individuals who are eager to kickstart their careers in civil construction and machinery maintenance.

Asten and Blaise: Aspiring Machine Operators

Todd and Blaise, both spotted at the 2024 Motivation Foundation Open Day, bring with them a passion for machine operation, particularly excavators. Their training at the Motivation Foundation has prepared them well for integration into DM Civil’s field operations.

Under the guidance of our seasoned operators and crew supervisors, Todd and Blaise will gain invaluable hands-on experience while being introduced to DM Civil’s core principles, including our strong focus on safe work practices. Alongside this practical training, both will pursue Certificate III civil qualifications, which will open doors to advanced career opportunities as they grow into their roles.

Todd and Clayton: Workshop Enthusiasts

Todd, our 16 year old Mazenod College graduate, and Clayton, a recent student from Muresk Agricultural College, are enthusiastic about machine mechanical maintenance and have joined our workshop team. They will work on DM Civil’s modern fleet of trucks, construction machinery, and equipment, assisting with scheduled maintenance and repairs.

Their journey will include theoretical trade training through TAFE, complemented by in-house learning under the mentorship of our experienced fitters and technicians. This combination of practical and academic training will equip them with the skills needed to excel in the demanding field of machinery maintenance.

Building a Skilled Workforce

At DM Civil, we are proud to support young individuals with a passion for hands-on trades that are vital to our operations. By sourcing, training, and retaining dedicated talent, we ensure our team’s continued success and growth.

We look forward to watching Todd, Blaise, Asten, and Clayton thrive as they embark on their respective career paths. Their enthusiasm and dedication are a testament to the bright future of the civil construction and maintenance industry.

Recognition of a legacy

 

Following our Civil Contractors Federation WA State Earth Award success with the East Perth Power Station HP Gas Pipeline project, we recently attended the CCF National Awards night in Canberra on Friday, 22 November. While we were unsuccessful in our national bid, we are immensely proud to have been contenders at such a prestigious level.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of one of DM Civil’s founders, Reg Toohey, for his exceptional contributions and leadership within the Civil Contractors Federation (CCF).

The CCF, the peak national body representing our civil construction industry, has a rich history. It began as the Land Development Contractors Association (LDCA) before merging with the Australian Earthmovers and Road Contractors Federation (AERCF) in the late 1980s, evolving into the Civil Contractors Federation in 1995. The CCF has been a steadfast advocate for fair industrial conditions and equitable opportunities within the industry.

Reg Toohey’s leadership journey with the CCF is remarkable. Elected state president of CCFWA from 1994 to 1997, Reg went on to serve as national president from 1998 to 2000. During this time, he played a pivotal role in driving positive changes across the industry, championing training as a cornerstone for sustainability and growth. Remarkably, Reg balanced these responsibilities while serving as managing director at DM Civil, overseeing estimating and operational duties—a testament to his dedication and work ethic.

On the awards night, Reg was honoured with an Honorary Life Membership of the CCF, recognising his significant contributions and enduring legacy in shaping our industry.

We congratulate Reg on this well-deserved recognition and remain inspired by his example as we continue to build on the foundations he helped establish.

 

DM Civil proudly claimed the 2024 WA Earth Awards for Excellence in Civil Construction for the $10-30 million project value category for its work on the East Perth Power Station (EPPS) Pipeline project. This award marks not only a significant achievement for the company, but is also a testament to the innovation, quality, and meticulous project management that define DM Civil’s operations.

Project Overview

The East Perth Power Station Pipeline project, commissioned by ATCO Gas Australia, involved constructing a 7.5 km high-pressure steel gas pipeline. The project was split into two major packages:

• Package A: Construction of a new 7.4 km DN250 steel high-pressure gas pipeline from the Bayswater Pressure Reduction Station (PRS) to Alexander Drive in Dianella, ensuring continuous gas supply to the Perth CBD.
• Package B: Installation of a 200m DN250 steel high-pressure gas pipeline in East Perth, bypassing the existing PRS and connecting the newly derated HP152 pipeline to the existing HP059 pipeline.

This project represents ATCO’s largest pipeline construction effort in Australia to date and DM Civil’s first significant foray into natural gas pipeline construction, with a project value of over $18 million. The scale, complexity, and timeline showcased the capacity of DM Civil’s project management, innovation, and technical capabilities.

Construction Challenges and Complexities

The East Perth Power Station Pipeline project presented a unique set of challenges. DM Civil’s team successfully navigated simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) with other third-party contractors, intricate stakeholder management, and complex environmental factors. Key challenges included:

• Simultaneous Projects in Bayswater Light Industrial Area: The team worked alongside several major infrastructure projects, including the Tonkin Gap project, Bayswater Evolve project, and another ATCO gas pipeline project, all within a 1km radius. Daily meetings with affected parties ensured no delays or conflicts.
• Built-Up Residential and Industrial Areas: The pipeline installation traversed heavily populated areas, including narrow suburban streets, major roads like Alexander Drive and Grand Promenade, and industrial zones in Bayswater. Stringent traffic management plans, coordination with local authorities, and innovative construction methodologies were vital to minimising disruptions to businesses and residents.
• Groundwater and Contamination Issues: A significant challenge arose from encountering contaminated groundwater (PFAS) in the Bayswater Light Industrial Area. DM Civil executed major dewatering operations, including 24/7 tankering, to ensure safe disposal of the effluent while keeping the site dry and safe for pipeline construction.

Innovative Solutions and Construction Techniques

DM Civil employed various innovative construction techniques throughout the project, setting a new standard for ATCO and future projects. Some notable innovations include:

• Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD): A substantial portion of the pipeline was installed using HDD, particularly through busy intersections like Beaufort Street and Grand Promenade, without disrupting traffic. The use of HDD in built-up suburban areas significantly reduced the impact on residents and businesses compared to traditional open excavation methods.
• Pilot Boring: Pilot boring was utilized to install sections of the pipeline where HDD or open excavation was not feasible. This method allowed for accurate, trenchless installation of pipes beneath existing water mains and roads.
• Pipe Welding Mid-Pullback: To avoid disturbing well-established trees and verges in suburban areas, DM Civil implemented a novel solution of welding pipe sections mid-pullback during HDD, reducing the size of excavations and protecting the community’s landscape.
• Coating Material Trials: DM Civil introduced a new heat shrink sleeve coating system to expedite installation, which, if adopted, could improve productivity on future pipeline projects.

These innovative approaches not only mitigated project risks but also saved time and reduced costs, showcasing DM Civil’s commitment to delivering high-quality cost effective solutions for its clients.

Leadership and People Development

The success of the East Perth Power Station Pipeline project can be attributed to the strong leadership and teamwork demonstrated by DM Civil’s project management team. A notable aspect of this project was the “lead from the front” approach, where the Project Manager was on-site for the majority of the project, ensuring seamless communication and problem-solving in real time. This hands-on leadership style created a motivated and engaged workforce, which proved crucial in overcoming the project’s complexities.

The project also provided opportunities for people development and training, with multiple leading hands promoted to supervisory roles and gaining valuable experience in gas pipeline construction. The project engineer for this contract, deeply involved in all aspects of the project, was later promoted to Project Manager for subsequent gas pipeline projects, highlighting the developmental impact of the project on DM Civil’s workforce.

Safety and Environmental Management

DM Civil’s unwavering commitment to safety and environmental stewardship was evident throughout the project. The company’s safety management plan, accredited to ISO 45001:2018, included a thorough hazard identification workshop (HAZID) and regular safety discussions with ATCO. The successful use of a specialised “cold-cutter” for cutting existing gas pipelines without producing heat exemplifies the innovative safety measures implemented on-site.

Environmental management, accredited to ISO 14001:2015, was equally robust. DM Civil engaged arborists to protect significant street trees during excavation and developed a noise management plan that received praise from local authorities for its effectiveness during nightworks. Additionally, DM Civil’s handling of contaminated groundwater through dewatering and effluent disposal ensured no adverse environmental impact, setting a precedent for future projects in the area.

Stakeholder Management

Effective stakeholder management was critical to the success of the East Perth Power Station Pipeline project. DM Civil worked closely with local residents, businesses, and government authorities to minimize disruptions and maintain positive relationships. The team carried out extensive community engagement, including door-knocking and letter drops, to keep stakeholders informed and address their concerns. The proactive approach to managing community relations resulted in minimal complaints and strong positive feedback from local councils and businesses.

Legacy and Future Impact

The East Perth Power Station Pipeline project leaves behind a legacy of innovation, efficiency, and excellence in civil construction. DM Civil’s success in managing this complex project has established the company as a major contender in the gas pipeline construction industry. The innovative methodologies developed during this project, such as the use of HDD in difficult areas and the pilot boring technique, have since been adopted by ATCO for future pipeline projects, further cementing DM Civil’s reputation for delivering high-quality solutions.

Additionally, the strong working relationship forged with ATCO during this project has led to DM Civil securing multiple pipeline contracts with the company, showcasing the long-term value created through successful project delivery.

The East Perth Power Station Pipeline project is a highlight example of DM Civil’s commitment to excellence in civil construction. The team’s ability to overcome significant challenges, implement innovative solutions, and deliver a high-quality project on time and within budget has been rightfully recognised with the 2024 WA Earth Award for Excellence in Civil Construction.

The successful completion of the East Perth Power Station Pipeline project showcases the company’s capacity to meet complex challenges head-on with innovative and efficient solutions. As DM Civil continues to build on this foundation, the lessons learned and breakthroughs achieved on this project will inspire future advancements, positioning the company as a leader in civil construction and setting new standards for the industry.

We have shared 7 chapters dedicated to our large bore steel (MSCL) water mains, we have discussed DM Civil’s company history of laying DN1400 Sintakote bulk water mains.

Since 2000, DM Civil has laid over 110 kilometres of DN1400 steel water mains with a further 50 kilometres of other sizes from DN600 and up to DN1200, also in steel. We have also laid over 157 kilometres of ductile iron (DICL) raw water supply mains for mining water supplies.

Almost all of this pipework has been laid below ground in various conditions including sand, clay, rock and in water-charged ground. Occasionally, we have laid pipework above ground, generally where the main that we are replacing must remain operational and is in poor condition. This was the case for the main conduit (Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme) replacement at Boondi where rock would have needed to be blasted to lay the pipe below ground.

Over three-quarters of these projects featured several sections to be installed by trenchless techniques utilising the technology and equipment of the DM Civil trenchless division. Our fleet of auger boring and microtunnelling equipment has been proven to give our pipeline crews a distinct advantage over others, with our in-house expertise and project control.

Over the years, the MSCL (Steel Mains Sintakote) jointing systems have progressed from rubber ring joint and expanded and collapsed welded joint, to Sintajoint, spherical slip-in joint, ball and socket joint (welded inside and out), Sintalock rubber ring Type 1 and Type 2 (both externally welded), butt joint (plain and collared), and flanged joints.

DM Civil is proud to have been associated with these projects and we are extremely proud of our construction crews and engineering teams who have worked through tough conditions in heat, cold and rain for long shifts. These people have forged the reputation that DM Civil enjoys today as a leading pipeline contractor for our state water supply, providing expertise to the industry.

 

DM Civil Pipeline Company History

CHAPTER 1

Some DM Civil history… Southern Fortescue Borefield Transfer Pipeline

DM Civil was established in 1976 as a drainage and construction contractor, working in the metropolitan area and across regional Western Australia from Esperance to Wyndham and into the Tanami Desert of the Northern Territory.

In the late 1980’s, the DM Civil company founders were our on-site operators and pipe installers.

With a recommendation and an invitation from Hamersley Iron to construct a borefield collector network and then 21km of DN375 ductile iron pipework, these men worked long days and long shifts to construct the buried pipeline through the hard banded iron formation and dolerite dykes. This was carried out only 4 metres from the existing above-ground pipeline which was still in operation.

Quoting the mining magazine publication of the day ‘The Dedication and professionalism shown under challenging conditions in the Pilbara are hallmarks of DM’s work around the state.’

It was from these humble beginnings and hard work, that DM Civil has developed into a water supply pipeline installer with experience gained and retained in the fabric of our firm and valued by our clients and peers alike.

 

Chapter 2 – Stirling Alliance Trunk Main

Stirling DN1400 Trunk Main Stage 1 – Stirling Dam to Peterson Road Harvey

Leading up to 2000, Perth was approaching severe water supply shortages. Climate change had been recognised by Water Corporation and they committed to an Integrated Water Supply System (IWSS), including linking all of the dams north of Wellington Dam in Collie to feed into Perth’s water supply system.

The DM Civil and Brierty Contractors joint venture was selected from a field of 22 contractors across Australia to form the first alliance by the Water Corporation to complete Stage 1 of the proposed work including 10km of road and 19.3km of DN1400 Sintakote MSCL pipeline in extremely steep rocky terrain, as narrow as 9m total construction corridor.

With the aim of ‘best for the project’, the alliance team was able to deliver innovations that provided significant savings. The project was delivered ahead of schedule and 10% under the original budget. 95% of all cleared vegetation was recycled for fauna habitat, soil stabilisation and erosion control. Millable timber from clearing was donated to the local Gnaala Carla Boodja community to train young Aboriginals in timber milling and furniture making.

The project and the management structure received significant recognition for exceptional performance. The Alliance was the winner of the West Australian “Engineering Excellence Awards 2000” for Management of Engineering and Environmental Categories. The project was also awarded the West Australian and the much coveted Australian National Overall, “2000 CASE Earth Awards” for outstanding Environmental Project of the year.

Just like the late 1980’s at Southern Fortescue, the DM Civil company owners still led our staff. And many of those same staff are with our company 25 years on.

 

Chapter 3 – Stirling Trunk Main Valve K to Valve P

Stirling DN1400 Trunk Main – Shire of Murray

Following on from our alliance contract experience on the first leg of the Stirling Trunk Main, Water Corporation chose to release the remaining legs of the pipeline up to Tamworth Hill Reservoir as hard dollar contracts.

In 2001, DM Civil was awarded the AS4000 contract to construct the second leg of the remaining pipework. This 27 kilometre section of DN1400 pipework was a mixture of rubber ring and welded joints at the bends and section valves. The contract commenced from the last pipe laid, south of the Pinjarra light industrial area and extended north across the farm areas to a point short of Karnup Road in Serpentine Jarrahdale Shire. The work included a major pipe bridge, approximately 50 metres in length over the Murray River.

After an above average winter rainfall, a large portion of the route was inundated, which required resequencing of the works programme and preparation to construct in heavy conditions, even in the higher ground of the coastal plain.

Our experience on the first leg of the pipeline in the Harvey Valley for the Stirling Alliance contract, set DM Civil up for many of the challenges ahead in terms of environmental and stakeholder management. This experience was particularly relevant in terms of plant and machinery chosen to handle this length and mass of pipe with safety and manoeuvrability in mind.

Environmental management, particularly around waterways and remnant woodlands was still a high priority for the project. Fauna mapping and management plan approvals were a time consuming but eventually rewarding process prior to mobilisation. DM Civil prioritised this task and worked alongside Water Corporation environmental scientists to ensure protection and correct handling of fauna, particularly Southern Brown Bandicoots and Black Cockatoos. Dieback management was also a consideration in native forest areas.

A further legacy of our time on the first alliance contract in the Harvey Valley, was the ability to formally liaise with stakeholders along the route including local government authorities and the numerous farmland owners. In conjunction with Water Corporation, dilapidation reporting procedures for local roads as well as farmland pastures were formulated to ensure protection for all stakeholders.

With the second section of the Stirling Trunk Main successfully and safely installed, a total of 46 kilometres, DM Civil had been a contributor to the IWSS.

 

Chapter 4 – Serpentine-Canning Link Main

Serpentine-Canning DN1400 Trunk Link Main – Shire of Armadale

In 2005, following on from our second leg of the Stirling Trunk Main, Valve K to P, DM Civil constructed another section of the Perth integrated water scheme (IWSS).

The 13.7 km DN1400 Sintakote pipeline linked the Serpentine Dam trunk main at Nicholson Road pumping station and the Canning trunk main at the Connell-Manning valve complex.

The design of the pipeline was substantially altered after contract award due to criteria set by the local government authority. With DM Civil’s experience in pipeline construction, we were able to adapt to Water Corporation’s changing requirements and still complete the works within the contract programme. This included an above ground crossing of the Canning River to fulfil the Aboriginal heritage protection requirements of the bed and banks.

Another key component of the works was to complete pipe installation under the Corfield Street interchange with Tonkin Highway. This section of the main was completed over Easter to minimise traffic disruption and to ensure that Tonkin Highway construction programme was maintained. Work continued for 24 hours a day over the 4 day holiday period with the roads fully reinstated and open to traffic by the following Tuesday morning.

The project delivered another key piece of the IWSS.

 

Chapter 5 – Serpentine-Canning Link Main

Stirling Dandalup DN1400 Link Main Ravenswood to North Dandalup – Shire of Murray

Following on from our DN1400 pipeline from Nicholson Road pumping station to Connell-Manning valve complex in 2005, DM Civil was contracted by Water Corporation to construct another section of DN1400 pipework for the Perth integrated water supply (IWSS).

The Stirling Dandalup link was constructed in 2009-2010, with the contract comprising two separable portions to be constructed concurrently.

The first 14.2 kilometre long class 35 DN1400 pipeline was to commence at the location of the proposed Ravenswood pumping station on Old Mandurah Road to the west of Paterson Road, and traverse farmlands and rural roads to Atkins Road in North Dandalup townsite, adjacent to the railway. This end of the main was connected into the existing Stirling Dandalup Main.

Two above ground crossings were constructed, the first over the Dandalup River and the other over Goomaljerup Creek, beyond Atkins Road in North Dandalup. Live service crossings of the Pamelia Gas Pipeline and twin Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipelines were carried out by the DM Civil trenchless division.

The post award discovery of an unmapped, direct buried major fibre optic cable that meandered through the pipeline route proved to be a challenge. Locating the cable as construction progressed was a time consuming process, as was the protection measure of procuring and placing steel plates at all crossing points for the duration of the contract.

The second separable portion of the works was to construct a 2.2km long class 21 DN1400 pipeline duplication of the existing Stirling Trunk Main downstream of the proposed Ravenswood pumping station, running from the Murray River to the station location. This included a DN1200 section valve complex installed to isolate the bifurcation of the trunk main near the river.

As with our other trunk main projects before, this project delivered the Water Corporation another link for IWSS.

 

Chapter 6 – Wungong Transfer Main Stage 2

Wungong DN1400 Trunk Main – City of Armadale

At the same time as DM Civil was constructing the Stirling Dandalup link main in 2009-2010 (Chapter 5), we were also awarded the contract for stage 2 of the Wungong transfer main. This was a 10.8km DN1400 MSCL Sintakote pipeline between the Nicholson Road pumping station in Forrestdale and the Mitchell Street valve complex in Wungong.

The contract scope was to install the DN1400 MSCL pipe including testing and treatment of acid sulphate soils, connection to the existing pipework at Nicholson Road pumping station with the installation of a DN1200 pressure reducing valve, and valve work at the Wungong Dam pipe connection.

At the Wungong Dam offtake, provision was also made for a local reticulation connection. A booster pumping station was constructed, that directly fed off the new pipeline. This included a five story high surge vessel to manage any peak in hammer pressure during the operation of the booster pumping station. These works were completed concurrently with the pipeline, providing the local community with a new reliable water source for domestic use.

The pipeline allows Water Corporation to feed water from the Kwinana Desalination Plant back into Wungong Dam, further diversifying storage options. Conversely, the pipeline can be used to feed water from Wungong Dam to Nicholson Road pumping station where it can be pumped to other storage facilities in the event that Perth encounters a higher than average rainfall.

As with our trunk main projects before, this project delivered the Water Corporation more flexible storage for the IWSS.

 

Chapter 7 – Stirling Trunk Main Duplication

Wungong DN1400 Trunk Main – City of Armadale

At the same time as DM Civil was constructing the Stirling Dandalup link main in 2009-2010 (Chapter 5), we were also awarded the contract for stage 2 of the Wungong transfer main. This was a 10.8km DN1400 MSCL Sintakote pipeline between the Nicholson Road pumping station in Forrestdale and the Mitchell Street valve complex in Wungong.

The contract scope was to install the DN1400 MSCL pipe including testing and treatment of acid sulphate soils, connection to the existing pipework at Nicholson Road pumping station with the installation of a DN1200 pressure reducing valve, and valve work at the Wungong Dam pipe connection.

At the Wungong Dam offtake, provision was also made for a local reticulation connection. A booster pumping station was constructed, that directly fed off the new pipeline. This included a five story high surge vessel to manage any peak in hammer pressure during the operation of the booster pumping station. These works were completed concurrently with the pipeline, providing the local community with a new reliable water source for domestic use.

The pipeline allows Water Corporation to feed water from the Kwinana Desalination Plant back into Wungong Dam, further diversifying storage options. Conversely, the pipeline can be used to feed water from Wungong Dam to Nicholson Road pumping station where it can be pumped to other storage facilities in the event that Perth encounters a higher than average rainfall.

As with our trunk main projects before, this project delivered the Water Corporation more flexible storage for the IWSS.

DM Civil’s DN700 Neerabup Bore Main project poses a number of challenges. One of these challenges was delivery of 12 metre long, 2.0 tonne DN700 MSCL pipes along parts of the pipe route that won’t permit the use of road transport trucks.

Our workshop team developed a solution to modify our existing Morooka MST 800E rubber tracked tip truck to a pipe and also flat-bed tray carrier. Both the workshop and fabrication team collaborated to bring the modification to fruition, and you can see the end result in action as depicted in the header photo.

All the new components are bolted for easy removal for re-fitment of the tip body when required. Various engine components required re-configuration to ensure they didn’t clash with the pipe when being carried.

The Morooka is rated to 4 tonnes as a tip truck; however, with the addition of pipe cradles at each end of the machine and flat-bed platform, the machine is now rated to 3 tonnes in this new configuration.

This modification will allow for the safe transport of the DN700 MSCL pipes and DN1500 scour valve pit components across rough terrain with restricted access and no turn-around for road trucks. The platform also allows safe man access to allow rigging a lifting sling to the middle of the pipe, or chains to precast concrete components.

SEQ has worked in conjunction with the workshop team to develop a JSEA for the correct and safe use and operation of the Morooka in this configuration. Drafted working drawings were supplied to an independent structural engineer to obtain rated capacity certification.

This is a brilliant innovation to allow more diverse use of existing plant and equipment and was an outstanding effort by all involved.

We have now been awarded Separable Portion 2 of the Neerabup Bore Collector Main. Separable Portion 2 is the construction element of the 500m of DN500 and 3,500m DN800 steel pipeline and follows on from Separable Portion 1 being the design contract. DM Civil will be utilising cement lined and polyethylene coated steel pipe (Sintakote MSCL) in welded, weld restraint and rubber ring joint configurations to complete this project.

The critical path of the contract programme commences with a section of pipeline to be laid behind the Mitchell Freeway Eastern noise wall, north of Moore Drive and south of Burns Beach Road. The route of the main lies beneath Western Power high voltage distribution lines which will be de-energised during construction of this section of works. The shutdown period is relatively short which will require a solid effort from the crews to complete the works on time and remain on the construction program.

The trenchless portion also has its complexities. The diameter and ground conditions for microtunnelling are such that we have purchased additional components for our existing machine to ensure that the rock conditions are not an issue. There is a considerable lead time on these components which means that we are pushed to the back of the programme for these works. Added to the list of complexities is the task of entering the existing DN1800 concrete sleeve that terminates beneath the traffic lane of the freeway. This will require specialist soil stabilisation and careful attention to detail for the bore setup and monitoring process.

We are proud to have been chosen as the contractor for what is a complex and time critical task. Water Corporation considered the award over a long period due to the contract risks, of which there are many. Our diverse capabilities and experience across all our capabilities will ensure the successful delivery of this project through meticulous engineering, project and operational management. We now have the opportunity to perform to a high standard to vindicate their decision to choose DM Civil over our industry competition

In keeping with the DM Civil policy of long term investment, our Kenworth prime mover has undergone a full rebuild. This follows 1,154,000 kilometres of heavy equipment haulage over 12 years.

Kenworth trucks were originally imported from the United States in the 1960’s until a factory was established in Bayswater, Victoria where the iconic brand has been produced ever since. Our truck was purchased new, in 2002 from the Bayswater Victoria factory and driven across the Nullarbor. The cab-over model was chosen to produce the most versatile maximum length combination and to afford our drivers the safest viewing position for our sometimes congested site loading points.

We commissioned a complete engine overhaul to bring the Caterpillar power plant back to original engineering specification. This included welding and reboring of the combustion chambers, new pistons, rings and liners, con rods, bearings, a turbo charger rebuild, new internal and external wiring harnesses, reconditioned fuel injection and an upgraded engine electronic management system. A new fuel pump and new air compressors and hoses have also been fitted. The crankshaft and the cam shaft only required polishing. The engine is a Caterpillar C15 (15 litre capacity) diesel rated at 475 horsepower. The dynamometer testing carried out post-reconditioning has confirmed that this is still the power output following the rebuild.

The Fuller 18 speed gearbox was only recently rebuilt and fitted with a new twin clutch. The radiator has also been re-cored. The drivetrain rear wheel Meritor RT-50 differentials were chosen in the original purchase for heavy long distance work, and are still in excellent condition following their relatively light loading over the lifetime of the truck.

With a paintwork detail, including the engine bay, the truck will be back to original specification and operate and present as a new unit. We expect a minimum of 5 years’ trouble free operation from our reconditioned workhorse. This will vindicate our decision to outlay the original purchase price in order to invest in a truck that is robust and reliable in its operation and that can be refurbished to extend an already considerable life.

The extent of the rebuild also demonstrates the capacity of our workshop management and fitters to maintain our earthmoving and transport fleet using our in-house expertise that has been built over the past 40 years of operation. This is credit to Murray Pich as workshop manager and his team of fitters for their dedication.

The Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) is the body representing almost 1000 Men’s Sheds and is recognised as one of Australia’s largest male based community development organisations.

While doing a bit of a spring clean, we came across some PPE that was excess to our requirements or no longer suitable for our industry, rather than dispose of these items, Russell Pember suggested we should contact “Men’s Shed” and offer the PPE to them.

AMSA was established in 2007 and funded by the Federal Department of Health. It provides practical support to Men’s Sheds and delivers a wide range of services that aim to improve the health and wellbeing of members and reduce the number of men who are at risk from preventable health issues that may emanate from isolation.

Men’s Shed is a community-based, non-profit, non-commercial organisation with a primary goal to provide a safe and friendly environment, which is accessible to all men, where they’re able to work on meaningful projects.

Chris from the Men’s Shed in Gosnells, came out and took delivery of the PPE, stating that they’d be put to good use with all of his members.

If you’d like to learn more about Men’s Shed, check out their website for the Western Australian Men’s Shed Community at www.mensshedswa.org.au

For this year’s CCF WA Earth Awards submission we entered the Port Hedland Hospital Demolition and Remediation project.

This project totalled $5.85M and was completed in 10 months, making it a worthy candidate for a Category 3 (projects valued $5M – $10M) nomination.

Port Hedland is a regional town located in the Pilbara with an approximate population of 17,000 people. The old Port Hedland Hospital was in operation from the 1970’s through to 2010. In 2010 new medical facilities including a new hospital were built in South Hedland making the hospital in Port Hedland obsolete. Since 2010 the old hospital has remained unused in any capacity.

DM Civil were awarded the contract to demolish all structures on this site, alongside remediation and earthwork activities.

In greater detail, and in sequence, the scope of works comprised of;

• Furniture removal and disposal
• Asbestos containing material identification, removal and disposal
• Building demolition, material segregation and disposal
• Service removal, segregation and disposal
• Contaminated soil removal and disposal
• Bulk Earthworks
• Detailed Earthworks
• Through DM Civil’s innovation we began a discussion with the client to offer a more economical method for the earthworks portion of this project. We proposed that once the buildings had been demolished and footings removed we would undertake a detailed survey of the existing ground levels. From this information a cut and fill model was generated to ensure maximum utilisation of the material on site whilst ensuring the maximum slope angle requirement was adhered to. This also triggered the discussion for stormwater runoff modelling, where drains were designed with a basin and rock protection as required.By utilising our ‘Topcon Machine Control Systems’ we provided a massive saving in survey crew, field times and eliminated the need for more than 1000 survey pegs to be installed on site. Using the Machine Control on the Grader, enabled us to accurately trim large areas in a very short time.We were recently notified that this project was selected as a finalist for this category, with the awards night to be held on the 10th of August, where we’ll find out if we’ve won.

  Win or lose, a big thank you and congratulations to everyone involved on this project for another job well done.

Millars Landing Stage 1A reached practical completion on 15th May 2018. Based on our performance and the proactive attitude of our project team, DM Civil was asked to submit a quote for the next stage, Millars Landing Stage 1B. We also tendered for a new Type 40 waste water pump station (WWPS) and pressure main (PM) which will service the subdivision and future development. We also priced the installation of the gravity sewer main extension and water main between Stage 1A and the new WWPS.

We are delighted to announce that we have been successful on all three bids, with works scheduled to start in early July. The WWPS has a contract duration of 16 weeks and Stage 1B, including the sewer extension, will be constructed over a contract period of 21 weeks.

The pump station is approximately 10m deep with excavation in wet clayey material which will require extensive dewatering and ASS management. The pump station wet well will be constructed using precast concrete segments and the project includes all the associated inlet/outlet pipework, pumps, instrumentation, SCADA control and overflow storage. To ensure the pump station can be brought on line we will also be installing a pressure main and electrical connection between the pump station and Baldivis Road.

Stage 1A is a regular subdivision which includes minor earthworks, sewer reticulation, stormwater and subsoil drainage, water reticulation, roadworks, laterite block retaining walls, underground power and a communication network. It also includes the 900m gravity sewer linking the subdivision to the new pump station.

The project team involved with Millars Landing Stage 1A will continue to provide quality outcomes for our client throughout these additional projects.

Contact DM Civil today to learn more.

DM Civil undertakes a wide range of project works throughout Western Australia from Albany through to Karratha and beyond. The diversity of the communities amongst which we conduct our activities presents DM Civil with a range of unique challenges and opportunities. DM Civil is committed to undertaking our projects in a responsible manner, such that the potential for disruption to the local community is minimised as much as possible.

However, some degree of disruption is unavoidable and therefore, ensuring that we focus on community engagement in various forms is paramount. Keeping the community informed on the progress and location of upcoming works using various media ensures that they are fully informed and can relay any concerns back to us to rectify in a timely manner.

In addition to informing the locals of our work activities, our crews often become a significant part of these communities for the duration of the works. We are currently working in Nilgen on the outskirts of Lancelin installing 14 kilometres of new water reticulation for the Water Corporation. The duration of this project is five months with several crews calling Lancelin home for this period. Three crew members have decided to join in with training sessions at ‘Lancelin Ledge Point Pirates Football Club.’ This was initially done to maintain their general health and fitness. However, after a few sessions they were asked to play for the league team.

Kyle Dougan, Kade Pescod and Cody Spanjers have been picked to play for the league team each week since their arrival and are making a great impact. So far, they have received several accolades between them including; ‘best forward on ground’ and ‘best on ground’. DM Civil is proud of their efforts and will continue to encourage their contribution back to the community.

DM Civil remains focused on achieving positive outcomes for our key stakeholders, one of which is the local community. This approach affords DM Civil the opportunity to leave Lancelin with the lasting impression that we care about the communities in which we work in addition to delivering a quality project that benefits that community.