Australian Pipeliner Nov/Dec 2025

Building Future Leaders

Chairman John Murphy

CEO Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

Managing Editor Eugene Duffy eugene.duffy@primecreative.com.au

Editor Timothy Bond tim.bond@primecreative.com.au

Business Development Manager Jake Niehus jacob.niehus@primecreative.com.au

Head of Design Blake Storey blake.storey@primecreative.com.au

Designer Apostolos Topatsis

Front Cover Image Stacked Learning

Copyright

The Australian Pipeliner is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in The Australian Pipeliner is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in The Australian Pipeliner are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2021

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

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The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association’s (APGA) vision is to lead the sustainable growth in pipeline infrastructure for Australasia’s energy. APGA is a non-profit organisation formed to represent the interests of its members involved in: the ownership, operation, maintenance, design, engineering, supply and construction of pipelines, platforms and all other structures used in or in connection with the drilling for, extraction and transmission of hydrocarbons, solids, slurries and similar substances both onshore and offshore. As a single voice representing the collective interests of its members, APGA is dedicated to encouraging the extension and development of the industry. The Australian Pipeliner is the official journal of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) and is distributed to members without charge and circulated to interested organisations throughout Australia and overseas. It is also available on subscription. The publishers welcome editorial contributions from interested parties. However, neither the publishers nor APGA accept responsibility for the content of these contributions and the views contained therein are not necessarily the views of the publishers or APGA. Neither the publishers nor APGA accept responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. All communications should be directed to the publishers.

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From the CEO

Australian Pipelines and Gas Association CEO Steve Davies discusses how advocacy and policy are at the heart of everything the association does.

The APGA has been more active than ever to improve understanding and appreciation for the role of gas and gas infrastructure. Over the past year, APGA has provided members with 44 file notes on policy reports and processes, participated in 40 government reviews and consultations, having 25 already completed with 15 ongoing and lodged 32 formal submissions. Every submission has been backed by an engagement strategy, ensuring follow-up meetings with ministers, officials and stakeholders. This is how we make sure our members’ interests are represented.

use of gas more than new wind developments.

Policy outcomes in 2025 reflect this shift. Victoria has walked back earlier plans to ban gas appliances; the Future of the NEM Review confirmed gas-fired generation will remain essential; and the NGER Scheme was amended so that renewable gas blends are recognised as lower-emission fuels. Meanwhile, work is underway on a national renewable gas strategy.

So, what is the state of gas and pipelines in 2025?

The Federal election gave us a defining moment. For the first time, both major parties went to the polls with commitments to “fix gas.” This momentum has carried through to the Federal Government’s Gas Market Review, a process designed to resolve supply issues once and for all.

Opportunities outside gas are also becoming clearer. In water, new restrictions on artesian water use mean resource projects and data centres are driving strong demand for pipelines to transport water. In CCS, the International Energy Agency forecasts that at least 15 per cent of global emissions must be mitigated by capture and storage. In Australia, this means over 60 million tonnes of CO₂ every year and up to 20,000km of CO₂ pipelines.

An important part of our advocacy has been cutting through the noise with facts. Led by Paul Purcell, APGA’s EnergyShift has become one of our most valuable tools. This report takes the pulse of community attitudes to energy, providing insights not just for us but also for government and industry leaders. When we first ran EnergyShift in 2023, the findings were surprising. The Australian public was strongly supportive of natural gas, despite the headlines at the time suggesting otherwise. That evidence helped give government confidence to back gas in its Future Gas Strategy, gave energy users confidence to call for better gas policy and gave us the chance to speak to a wider range of stakeholders. Today, EnergyShift shows that Australians now back increased

APGA Secretariat

Registered Office: 2nd Floor, NFF House, 14-16 Brisbane Avenue, Barton, ACT 2600

(PO Box 5416, Kingston ACT 2604)

T: +61 2 6273 0577

E: apga@apga.org.au

W: www.apga.org.au

ABN: 29 098 754 324

Five years ago, it was not widely accepted that gas would continue to play a role in electricity generation. APGA’s advocacy helped change that, with our 2021 Frontier Economics report showing that a system made up of 90 per cent renewables and 10 per cent gas was cheaper, more reliable and almost as clean as a fully renewable grid. That work challenged assumptions and contributed to the policy and market settings we now see.

While 2025 has been quieter on the project front, the outlook is strong. The ISP forecasts 13GW of new gas generation, and major opportunities are emerging in storage and transmission pipelines. It has not been an easy year, but it has been an important one. Through persistence and collective effort, we are shaping a stronger future for gas, pipelines and the communities we serve.

DAVIES APGA CEO

Chief Executive Officer

Steve Davies

Head of Corporate Services

Dhammith Abeysuriya

Head of Corporate Affairs

Paul Purcell

Head of Operations & Communications

Lawrence Shelton

Head of Engagement

Gayle Bower

Accounts & Membership Officer

Katy Spence

National Policy Manager

Catriona Rafael

Technical Advisor

Craig Bonar

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What’s in the pipeline for Victoria?

In recent months, the pipeline industry has seen some major developments across Victoria, with new plans and projects unveiled for the state.

ExxonMobil and Woodside have invested another $350 million into the development of Gippsland Basin gas assets.

The initiative, named the Turrum Phase 3 project, includes the drilling of up to five gas production wells via a jack-up rig. Drilling activities will take place at the Marlin B platform located in the Gippsland Basin in the eastern area of Bass Strait. The completed wells will be connected to the existing hydrocarbon production processing equipment located on the Marlin B platform.

“The gas this project delivers will help strengthen Australia’s energy security, powering Australian homes and business well into the next decade,” ExxonMobil said.

First gas is expected to be delivered to south-east Australia before winter 2027. According to ExxonMobil, it will produce four times more gas than Queensland supplied to the southern states in 2024.

This 50-50 joint venture project builds on nearly $1 billion in recent investments to deliver Gippsland gas to Australia, including the Kipper 1B project, the Kipper compression project, and the West Barracouta project.

Amplitude Energy targets

Otway Basin development

Amplitude Energy and O.G. Energy have formed a joint venture to develop an Otway Basin gas project.

Both companies have approved the East Coast Supply Project (ECSP), aimed at delivering additional gas supply to the east coast market. At a glance, the project entails a three well drilling program in the Otway Basin.

The venture is targeting supply of up to 90TJ per day through the existing Athena gas plant from 2028. This is subject to regulatory approvals, final investment decisions and

successful execution. The projected yield is roughly equivalent to the demand of over 600,000 Victorian homes, and will help to avoid potential gas supply shortfalls in Australia’s southern states.

The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase 1 encompasses well drilling, with well completions and subsea tree installations upon success, while Phase 2 encompasses subsea development and modifications at the Athena gas plant.

ECSP Phase 1 has an estimated cost of $240–270 million while Phase 2 is forecast between $140–185 million. Costs will be split on a 50/50 basis.

“In its latest Gas Statement of Opportunities released last week, AEMO highlighted the risk of peak-day gas shortfalls and seasonal supply gaps in the southern states arising from 2028, with annual supply gaps emerging from 2029,” Amplitude Energy CEO Jane Norman said.

“Our investment in the ECSP could potentially provide enough gas for over 600,000 Victorian homes for a decade from reserves and conversion of our resources. The project is structured to deliver first gas as early as possible, minimise exploration risks and maximise the use of existing gas infrastructure.

“We look forward to working with O.G. Energy to bring additional and much-needed gas supply to Australia’s southeastern domestic market.”

Beach Energy approved for Otway Basin drilling

NOPSEMA has approved Beach Energy’s plans to undertake drilling and plug-and-abandon activities in the Otway and Bass Basins.

The proposed scope of work covers drilling of up to five wells in Otway, and plugging, abandonment and removal of well infrastructure above the mudline for five legacy wells.

Drilling is expected to take roughly 30–40 days per well, while abandonment activities are expected to take roughly 15–20 days per well.

Proposed activities will be undertaken with a single moored semi-submersible drill rig with a thruster assisted mooring system. The drill rig

will be supported with up to three vessels.

The company recently celebrated a successful quarter, producing five million barrels of oil equivalent for the period. This was partly powered by a 22 per cent increase in Bass Basin production.

Beach also made strides at its Moomba carbon capture and storage (CCS) project.

“Commissioning of the Moomba CCS project was an important milestone for both Beach and Australia’s emissions reduction journey,” Woods said.

“The project has capacity to inject and store all vented reservoir CO2 from the Moomba Gas Plant. This puts Beach on track to achieve its 2030 emissions intensity reduction target of 35 per cent.”

Victorian households to benefit from water infrastructure upgrade

More than 800 homes in rural northern Victoria are receiving better drinking water following a major upgrade to the region’s water infrastructure.

Minister for Water Harriet Shing recently visited the newly upgraded Laanecoorie water treatment plant – a $5 million project delivered by Coliban Water as part of Victoria’s historic Big Water Build.

Households across Laanecoorie, Dunolly, Tarnagulla and Bealiba now benefit from a more efficient and reliable water supply, thanks to the construction of two new water storage tanks with a capacity of over two megalitres, alongside two new water pumps.

The tanks receive and store water from the South West Loddon Pipeline, which is operated by Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water.

The completed project marks the final connection between the Coliban Water system and the pipeline.

“Upgrading essential infrastructure like the Laanecoorie water treatment plant ensures we can deliver higher quality, reliable water supplies for our regional communities now and into the future,” Shing said.

The Laanecoorie Water Supply Upgrade is part of Coliban Water’s $500 million investment over five years in the Big Water Build – delivering one of the largest capital investment programs in the water authority’s history.

“Fronting up to the key challenges of climate change, population growth and ageing assets shaped our pricing submission…the Laanecoorie water treatment plant is just one of our Big Water Build projects,” Coliban Water managing director Damian Wells said.

APA to build Brigalow peaking power plant pipeline

APA Group will deliver a natural gas pipeline connecting its Roma Brisbane pipeline with CS Energy’s proposed Brigalow peaking power plant in Queensland.

The company has finalised a project development agreement and a gas transportation and storage agreement with CS Energy for the project.

The proposed power station will be

situated adjacent to CS Energy’s existing Kogan Creek power station, near Chinchilla in the Western Downs. It is designed to provide firming capacity during peak electricity demand periods and to complement variable wind and solar energy sources. The plant is capable of starting and stopping multiple times daily and can reach full output within five minutes.

will own and operate the pipeline under a 35-year gas transportation and storage agreement.

To facilitate this, APA will develop a new 23km pipeline to connect the power station to the Roma Brisbane pipeline. The pipeline will be designed to provide both natural gas transmission and storage services. Upon completion, APA will own and operate the pipeline under a 35-year gas transportation and storage agreement with CS Energy.

The project is targeted for completion in mid-2027, with total construction costs estimated at least $150 million.

“The completion of this agreement builds on our strategy to leverage our existing gas transmission network and capabilities to progress growth projects that deliver for investors and support energy security and transition along Australia’s east coast,” APA CEO and Adam Watson said.

“Along with the recent announcement of our agreement to acquire the Atlas to Reedy Creek pipeline and our ongoing east coast gas grid expansion work, this announcement demonstrates both our disciplined approach to capital allocation and the significant growth opportunities ahead in gas transmission and storage and gas-powered generation.”

Tamboran Resources welcomes Beetaloo Basin breakthrough

Tamboran Resources has made a significant breakthrough as the first operator in the Beetaloo Basin to gain approval under the Northern Territory’s Beneficial Use of Gas (BUG) legislation.

The agreement, achieved in collaboration with Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council, allows the Beetaloo Joint Venture to sell up to 60 terajoules per day of gas from Exploration Permits 98 and 117 over a three-year period, drawn from the proposed Shenandoah South Pilot Project.

Gas will be sold to the Northern Territory Government, with first delivery expected around mid-2026.

Tamboran’s Chairman and Interim CEO, Richard Stoneburner, described the approval as a landmark moment, expressing gratitude to Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council for their support.

“The BUG legislation has been a significant initiative undertaken by the government, which allows for gas volumes to be sold into the market during the exploration and appraisal phase of the project life,” he said.

“Gas that would have historically been flared on site will now be delivered into the local Northern Territory gas market, delivering much needed energy security to the

market that is predominantly powered by gas.”

Tamboran Resources will construct the Shenandoah processing and compression facility as part of the project.

The company has also entered agreements with APA Group to support the development of the Sturt Plateau pipeline, which will be the first pipeline connecting the Beetaloo subbasin directly to gas markets.

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People, training and competency

When The Australian Pipeliner discovered that AJSS had launched an ed-tech venture called Stacked Learning that was making waves in the engineering training space, we knew we had to take a closer look.

The training methodology seemed simple but enticing, taking real-world engineering scenarios and digitalising them to produce training modules that last for decades, accessible anytime, anywhere.

But as we entered the company’s Cheltenham training centre – an unassuming, red brick building – it was immediately clear that we had stumbled upon something that truly danced to its own music.

Pipeline industry veteran Arthur Stack is the man at the helm of this new venture, called Stacked Learning. Throughout his long career he’s seen firsthand the labour and skills shortages plaguing the industry.

“There are people with incredible skills that are retiring and leaving our industry, and retaining and passing on that knowledge is a key driver of why Stacked Learning exists,” he said.

“The pace of work has also accelerated, which means information has to be more readily available. It’s very difficult now for a young engineer or technician to go in and spend five years learning a specific set of skills, when the modern market demands that they learn in only one year. And where you might have had a crew of 20 a decade ago, now with costs cuts and efficiencies driving business you’ve got a crew of 12, and the efficiency drive is unrelenting.

“Our industry is always focusing on working smarter, not harder, but proper and efficient training is a critical part of that ethos that is often overlooked.”

The technological backbone Stacked Learning Operations Manager Monica Savanovic leads the tour of the training facility, weaving us past several pieces of critical site equipment such as a Rolls Royce gas turbine, which is one of a number of engines and package components students can dirty their hands with – each one the price of a luxury vehicle. But the most impressive part of the facility isn’t what’s physically present, it’s what isn’t.

Using a mix of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI), Stacked Learning can create digital twins of plant, equipment, and worksites, showing how they operate and interact with

different forces. This allows critical site and office staff to get incredibly detailed and hands-on training with machinery components, entirely risk-free.

The Stacked Learning team showed us several digital equipment representations such as a gas turbine and centrifugal gas compressor using AR, which appeared on the table at which we were sat. Each component could be manoeuvred and disassembled with ease.

“Learners come to us to simulate live work on high voltage power generation control systems with no fear of consequence or see the flow of gas inside of a pipeline.”

Savanovic said.

“We are aspiring to create a picture of realworld events to a level that’s not been seen before.”

Often, these training courses are created bespoke to help address specific challenges clients are having with plant and equipment. Entire worksites can even be digitalised for a fully immersive training experience.

This zero-consequence learning environment is perfectly suited to the pipeline industry, where assets such as high-pressure gas pipelines demand utmost care and competency.

In today’s pipeline industry, another common risk comes from hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic industrial byproduct that looks like a green or yellow dust. It can form on high-temperature components when materials containing both chromium and calcium are used, such as in some anti-seize or insulating products. Hexavalent chromium possesses a long-term health risk to many field workers throughout their careers.

Deadly as it is, the danger of hexavalent chromium isn’t completely understood by many, so much so that on average it costs companies $3 million in damages every year.

Fortunately, this is just one of many industry pain points that Stacked Learning is targeting through its digital training courses, making workers safer and more competent.

By engineers, for engineers

Arthur shows us into the ‘Ross Day’ Technical library, named for in honour of Ross who pioneered new and innovative forms of preventative, predictive and troubleshooting maintenance at ESSO Australia.

crammed in a tin. Just as Arthur has learned from and been inspired by other experts in the field, he now tries to pass on that passion and

knowledge to the next generation of operators, maintainers and young engineers. Both the room and the man are very much an allegory for the business itself.

Once again, the method to accomplish this goal is sound: recruit industry experts on the cusp of retirement, transcribe their knowledge through a series of highly technical interviews, and feed that data into a specialised AI learning system to form the basis of educational content. Dr Alasdair Lee, Stacked Learning Director of Training has leveraged his years of academic and educational training background in the sector to ensure that the tacit knowledge gathered from experts is not lost forever and remains as a digital archive.

In this way, lifetimes’ worth of knowledge is trapped in time and condensed into readily available learning modules. No more unwieldy thousand-page manuscripts and boring PowerPoint presentations; instead, information is intentional and accessible – its strength in its brevity.

Supported from the beginning by his colleagues Tom Chapman and Alison Robb, clearly Arthur’s passion is infectious, as he’s managed to recruit many veteran engineers, and some of Australia’s biggest names in gas infrastructure to champion his cause.

Tom continues to support the Stacked Learning team on content oversight and review, and it was Alison who drove the business transformation through its AJSS

instructors, leveraging a mix of physical equipment, cutting-edge digital tools, and engaging games that not only delivers sharp, sophisticated learning, but also fosters terrific engagement with the audience.

“We have a deep understanding of what the pain points are that operators, maintainers, technicians and engineers experience in the pipeline industry,” Arthur said. “We know what makes them tick. We know what keeps them interested.”

Going global

The company is young, only stepping out on its own in 2022 under the Stacked Learning banner, a major milestone in its mission to expand globally.

At the time of our visit, part of the Stacked team was scattered across Myanmar, Brunei, Thailand and the Philippines, as the business expands its footprint in southeast Asia. In early 2025, Stacked Learning signed a three-year licencing agreement in North America with similar agreement planned for LATAM Europe, the Middles East and Asia. In October 2025, Stacked Learning signed an agreement with the Adinin Training and Development Centre in Brunei to license its content across the Brunei oil and gas industry.

“We’re bringing Australian standards into countries where that kind of safety knowledge isn’t readily available,” Savanovic said.

Who are this year’s APGA award winners?

The 2025 APGA Convention kicked off in a big way with the annual awards ceremony.

The 2025 APGA Convention kicked off in a big way with the annual awards ceremony. The pipeline industry came together to celebrate some of the most impactful people, projects, and initiatives in the sector – whether seasoned veterans or rising stars.

Company awards

APA Group took out the Safety Award for its stay-in-business capital program.

“Over the last two years and counting, we are incident injury free. This represents more than 1.6 million people hours of work across more than 350 projects, and hundreds of people involved. We couldn’t be more proud,” APA Group’s Allyson Woodford said.

The Environment Award was won by MPC Kinetic for its Flare 360 solution, designed to prevent fugitive methane emissions during critical well maintenance.

“It’s very humbling to be recognised for a solution such as this, which is aimed at helping our clients to reduce their methane emissions,” MPC Kinetic’s Richard Wall said. “We appreciate the recognition from the APGA and the industry.”

Global Engineering and Construction took out the Diversity and Inclusion Award for its

efforts in showing how inclusion isn’t just a policy, but a culture. The company’s programs include targeted leadership development, pay equity initiatives, and ongoing education to challenge bias and foster request.

“I’m proud to be a part of Global Engineering and Construction,” Annelies

Maxwell said. “We are backed by an incredible leadership team that really support our initiatives that we roll out in the business, and that’s really endorsed by everyone at all levels, including in those remote locations where people are working long days in tough conditions. This award is a testament to them.”

Individual awards

John Rutherford, Operations Manager – HDD at Spiecapag, was the recipient of the Young Achievement Award. Rutherford has played an integral part in award-winning projects, and is currently leading the shore crossings for the Marinus Link project, connecting Tasmania and Victoria through a 345km high voltage interconnector.

“Receiving this award, I feel a mix of pride, gratitude and humility,” he said. “To be recognised by the APGA – an organisation that represents the backbone of Australia’s energy and pipeline industry – is truly an honour.

“I accept this award not just on behalf of myself, but on behalf of everyone who’s helped me through my career.”

APA General Manager Mark Fothergill received the Outstanding Achievement Award for his lifetime of service to the pipeline industry. For more than 35 years, Mark has helped to shape the modern pipeline sector in Australia – from delivering major infrastructure projects to leading APA’s engineering and operations team.

“I really appreciate this award. It brings back many memories of the people and companies I’ve worked with along the way,” he said.

“The award ceremony from APGA is perfect. I’ve really enjoyed seeing many of my colleagues get recognised over the years, so to join them today is one of the highlights of my career.”

Global Engineering and Construction General Manager (People and Culture) Annelies Maxwell.

Jamie Bell took home the Jeff Shepherd Construction Excellence Award. For two decades, Jamie has overseen some of the most complex pipeline projects in Australia, bringing them to life to the highest standards. His leadership style is defined by collaboration, creating a culture where safety, respect and excellence come equal first.

“It’s very humbling to be recognised, especially considering the calibre of award recipients that have come before me,” he said.

“I’d like to thank Nacap, where I’ve worked for 15 years. The guys there treat you like family. It’s a culture of safety, a culture of diversity – always striving to be better. Just a fantastic place to work.”

Supporting the industry from tender to close out

The Australian Pipeliner spoke with the Benton’s Gas team to learn.

Since 1999, Benton’s Gas has built a reputation in the pipeline industry for supplying high-quality products and services to Australia’s water and gas networks. But in an industry that prizes precision and reliability, it’s the human expertise behind the equipment that gives Benton’s its edge.

Among those driving this success is Shane Bishop, Project Manager and long-time member of the Benton family network. Having begun his career as a mechanic, Shane

Benton’s has the manpower and breadth of service to handle a wide range of projects.

brought with him a practical understanding of how machinery operates in the real world – an insight that has proved invaluable in expanding Benton’s service capabilities.

In his role as Project Manager, Shane also oversees hire and servicing operations, ensuring Benton’s customers achieve both efficiency and long-term cost savings. His knowledge of materials, project pricing, and operational integration allows Benton’s to provide a true point of difference at the tender stage.

“Understanding how materials behave in the field and how equipment performance affects outcomes means we can help our clients plan smarter and build stronger,” he told The Australian Pipeliner.

Working closely alongside Shane is Bevan McWha, Benton’s Gas Category Manager. Since joining the business in 2017, Bevan has applied his extensive experience with gas network assets across New South Wales to enhance Benton’s reach and capability.

His in-depth understanding of approved materials and asset requirements has helped reinforce Benton’s long-standing presence in Victoria and extend its influence interstate.

Bevan’s technical acumen, paired with Shane’s vision for enhanced customer service, was crucial in conversations with key partners such as Plasson, leading to the establishment of Benton’s Southern Region Hire and Servicing Department.

“By aligning our customer service vision with the needs of asset owners and manufacturers, we’ve been able to create a seamless support system that benefits everyone in the supply chain,” he said.

For Bevan and the team, this approach has borne fruit in 2025. The company left its mark on countless projects this year, including the Victorian gas renewal upgrade program, which involved works in rural and metro regions all over the state. Benton’s also played a role in multiple pipeline relocation projects, including for the Melbourne Airport Rail and the North East Link.

Bevan said the order books are already filling up for 2026, with supply contracts for

asset initial development and maintenance programs already lined up in South Australia and Victoria.

The continued trust of company founders Michael, Terry, Brian, and Wayne Benton, along with the efforts of every team member, has been central to Benton’s evolution from a modest plumbing supplies venture to a multi-branch enterprise serving Australia’s pipeline sector.

Bevan also gave a special acknowledgment to Rodney Griffin, Benton’s Gas Equipment Technician, whose commitment and technical skill have long underpinned the company’s reputation for reliability and precision.

From workshop to worksites, these are the people who turn Benton’s promise into performance. Their collective expertise, forged through years of experience and guided by family values, ensures that every piece of equipment leaving the depot – and every project it supports – meets the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and service.

At Benton’s Gas, people aren’t just part of the pipeline, they’re the reason it flows.

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A cut above the rest

Tesmec Australia is delivering bespoke, highly efficient trenching machines to some of Australia’s most important pipeline projects.

If you ask Tesmec Australia General Manager Adrien Merceron the thing he loves most about his job, he’ll tell you it’s the variety.

Whether it’s a cold call about a project in the middle of nowhere, finding the best trenching machine for a given job, monitoring the performance of machines out in the field, or answering a raft of geotechnical questions, it’s all part of the day-to-day for Merceron.

Such is the reality when working for a highly specialised company like Tesmec, which provides some of the most competitive, technologically advanced, and dialled-in trenching machines in the global market.

“In this job, it’s rarely the same kind of project with the same kind of machine,” he told The Australian Pipeliner

“One of the best parts is working with a wide range of people. When we work with smaller companies, it’s like a dream come true when their new trenching machine arrives.

“It makes me so happy to see their reaction, like purchasing a new car. They’re very, very happy.

“And on the opposite end, it’s always

exciting to deal with larger corporations on major pipeline projects, where we need to be hands-on from the beginning through early contractor involvement.”

It’s precisely this specialist approach that has allowed Tesmec to explode in popularity all over the globe, and 2025 has been no exception.

“Around the world and in Australia, we have definitely been quite busy, especially in the water industry,” Merceron said.

“Day-to-day around the country, we’re doing 20–50km pipelines, but we have some very large projects coming up next year in Queensland and South Australia.

“We’ve recently sold a few machines in Africa for big water pipeline projects, and we remain very busy in the Middle East doing a lot of oil and gas projects with the Saudi Arabian Oil Company. “

Innovation at the core

Key to Tesmec’s success, Merceron said, is its unending drive to innovate. At the heart of these innovations is Tesmec’s TrenchTronic 5.0, a sophisticated electronic control system that automates trenching operations.

By optimising depth control and trajectory

management, TrenchTronic 5.0 boosts productivity, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimising errors.

Complementing TrenchTronic 5.0 is TrenchIntel, a 3D-GPS automatic guidance system based on Topcon’s Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology.

TrenchIntel ensures trenching accuracy by automatically maintaining the correct running line, depth, and grade according to project specifications. Tesmec is confident this system outperforms traditional methods like laser systems, stakes, and string lines, by saving time and money from preventing undercuts, overcuts, and incorrect excavations.

“TrenchIntel really makes trenching a lot easier, increasing productivity and reducing costs,” Merceron said.

The company has also been leveraging artificial intelligence for condition monitoring, automatic reporting, and preventative maintenance on its trenchers. Monitoring this data – which is also sent to clients – is one of Merceron and his technical team’s role.

“In one recent example, we had a machine operating in the middle of nowhere and we noticed in the data that the engine and return system of this machine weren’t operating as normal,” he said. “So we reached out to the client and were able to determine that the air filter wasn’t correctly engaged after it had been removed for cleaning.

pedigree and local adaptability. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution in trenching; instead, Tesmec collaborates with clients early, works out what the rock conditions will be, what the environmental extremes are, what budgets allow, and then proposes or adapts machines accordingly.

Trust and honesty are core pillars of this approach.

“It’s important to be honest about what our machines can and can’t do, and about the rate at which they work. Sometimes drill and blast will be the only option, while other times, our trenchers will get the job done,” he said.

“In my view, it’s always better to overdeliver than to over-promise.”

Tesmec Australia provides a robust lineup of chainsaw trenchers that offer precise, reliable performance in any condition, from solid monolithic rock to

Pipe Tek launches ground-breaking ILI pig trailer

Pipe Tek has unveiled the company’s latest piece of pipeline equipment pioneering its capabilities in the Australian market.

Launched at the APGA Convention last month in Brisbane, Pipe Tek unveiled the latest addition to its fleet of equipment – a custom built inline inspection (ILI) pig transport trailer. Developed from insights gained from more than a decade onsite, the design of the trailer reflects the company’s practical understanding of what works in the field, addressing real-world challenges it faces every day on site.

The trailer is equipped with a high-tech laboratory, meaning data gathered from ILI runs can be reviewed while the pigs are actively navigating a pipeline. The ability to analyse data immediately on site also facilitates quicker decision making about next steps, whether that means continuing operations, performing targeted digs or scheduling repairs.

Pipe Tek Managing Director Myles Brannelly said the laboratory will also reduce downtime, improve accuracy and give greater flexibility onsite.

“In some cases, pipelines can be out of service while inspection data is reviewed. If this is done off-site then it can delay the reporting phase, and ultimately cost the operator money,” he said.

“The trailer will allow us to verify anomalies in the pipeline in real-time, which

we believe will reduce the risk of misinterpretation. When the data is available instantly, our team can work with pipeline engineers, contractors and the asset owner to interpret results, and develop a plan immediately.

“It will also mean our crews can adapt inspection plans on the fly, or re-run pigs in specific sections based on what they’re seeing in the data.”

The custom-designed trailer also has a built-in crane, meaning a separate winch or

pipeline and the configuration of the tool, but some can weigh more than a tonne. long distances and operate in remote and often demanding conditions.

“When you’re hundreds, or sometimes thousands, of kilometres away from a town or city, the reliability and durability of our gear is essential,” said Brannelly.

“With our recent expansion into Western Australia, it’s feasible that the trailer might have to be able to withstand a more than 4,000 km journey – so we’ve incorporated that into the design.”

The trailer was unveiled on the company’s stand at the Convention, which coincided with Pipe Tek’s 10th anniversary celebrations. Brannelly said he and co-founder Taddam Farrant were humbled to share the milestone with so many pipeliners that have helped them achieve the milestone.

“Celebrating 10 years at the APGA Convention was a really special moment for the whole Pipe Tek team,” he said.

“The association and the wider pipeline community has played a big part in our journey, so marking that milestone surrounded by our peers and industry partners made it even more meaningful. We can’t wait to see what the next 10 years brings.”

INDUCTABEND INDUCTABEND

Other

Compound

Helix

Custom

A quarter-century of spacer innovation

As kwik-ZIP celebrates 25 years of business, the company has paused to reflect on its many milestones, as well as the people who have helped shape its journey.

For a quarter of a century, kwik-ZIP has been at the forefront of engineering innovation, transforming the way centralisers and pipeline spacers are designed and delivered across the globe. Over the last five years alone, more than three million kwikZIP units – spanning a range of sizes – have rolled out from precision injection moulds, destined for projects on every continent.

From small-diameter centralisers used in monitor wells and foundation piling, to robust pipeline spacers capable of accommodating diameters in excess of 3.5m, kwik-ZIP’s applications reflect an impressive versatility. Each product is a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to solving real-world challenges in civil construction, water infrastructure, and energy sectors.

Innovation runs deep at kwik-ZIP. The relentless pursuit of smarter, more effective solutions has resulted in an impressive intellectual property portfolio, with ten patents and two design registrations secured globally. Notably, the company’s most recent U.S. patent – granted just two months ago –speaks to kwik-ZIP’s continual evolution and relevance in a competitive landscape.

From the outset, materials engineering has played a central role in kwik ZIP’s success. Its products are manufactured from engineered thermoplastic blends that offer high flexural strength, excellent temperature resistance, low coefficients of friction, and resistance to abrasion. Crucially, these components are non metallic, which avoids many of the problems associated with corrosion, damage to composite casing, or complications in environments with chemical exposure.

Compliance and accreditation have also marked important milestones. kwik ZIP’s HD, HDX and HDXT Series casing spacers have been formally approved under the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) Product Specification WSA PS 324. This specification prescribes standards for casing spacers in terms of material, runner spacing, abrasion resistance, and more – meaning that kwik ZIP’s products are not just well engineered but recognised by relevant regulatory bodies.

kwik-ZIP products are also approved for use within many utilities’ infrastructure, including Melbourne Retail Water Association, South-East Queensland’s Infrastructure and Materials (IPAM) list,

kwik-ZIP’s spacers and centralisers help protect pipes from a wide range of risks.

Sydney Water and the WA Water Corporation. All products are certified by the Australian Water Quality Centre (AWQC) for use in contact with drinking water.

Behind every component, patent, and certificate is kwik-ZIP’s remarkable team of people who make it happen. The creativity, dedication, and resilience of the people behind

the brand have propelled it from a promising idea to a trusted name in the industry.

Founder of the company, Jason Linaker, remains a guiding figure, driving technical development, leadership and the ethos of practical innovation. At every level, from design to production, from sales and logistics to customer service, the kwik ZIP team has had to

balance strict technical requirements with the unpredictability of field conditions to deliver for its clients. Their unwavering commitment ensures that every centraliser or spacer produced not only meets rigorous standards but also advances the boundaries of what’s possible.

Of course, kwik-ZIP’s story is also one of trusted partnerships. kwik-ZIP’s loyal

customers worldwide have placed their confidence in the brand’s ideas, supporting its growth and challenging the team to keep raising the bar. Suppliers, too, have contributed through their reliability, flexibility, and spirit of collaboration, helping kwik-ZIP deliver on its promises, time and again.

These combined efforts have resulted in tangible achievements. kwik ZIP products help contractors comply with wastewater, sewerage and water well construction codes; they protect carrier pipes in slip lining applications; they reduce risk to composite casing materials where conventional steel centralisers could cause damage. In many large infrastructure projects, including pipelines and large diameter casing installations, kwik ZIP’s spacer and centraliser systems have been selected for their reliability, cost efficiency, ease of assembly, and technically validated performance.

As kwik-ZIP marks its 25th anniversary, the occasion is one for celebration and reflection. It’s a moment to honour the journey so far, appreciate the present achievements, and look ahead with excitement to the innovations yet to come. The legacy of kwik-ZIP is not just found in the millions of units shipped or the patents granted, but in the spirit of innovation and partnerships that have defined every step of the way.

Looking ahead, the challenges are many: evolving environmental regulations, increasing demands on sustainability, ever more ambitious pipeline projects, and much more. Yet, these are exactly the kind of challenges that are well suited to kwik ZIP’s culture. If there is one thing the company’s history shows, it’s that kwik ZIP does not rest when there is still room to improve.

kwik-ZIP Managing Director Jason Linaker summed it up neatly: “As the company looks to the future, it does so with gratitude for the past and an undiminished passion for what’s still to come. Thank you for being part of the kwik-ZIP story.”

In it together

The APGA Women in Pipelines Forum is connecting research, industry and students towards shaping the future of the pipelines industry.

The pipeline industry is feeling the pressure of a labour and skills shortage, battling to attract young talent in a competitive market, while industry veterans retire from the field. As an industry-wide challenge, association bodies like the APGA Women in Pipelines Forum (WPF) are leading the way in tackling these issues.

In September, the NSW WPF committee hosted a panel discussion and networking day at the University of Wollongong (UOW), which was sponsored by ROSEN and newly established Gas Infrastructure Research Australia (GIRA). The event brought together researchers, industry professionals, and university students to highlight the critical role of research and industry collaboration.

Over the course of the seminar, the audience heard from senior leaders spanning pipelines, future fuels, materials-engineering and asset-integrity, from organisations such as GIRA, APA Group, Jemena, and ROSEN.

Key themes included how research and industry must collaborate to tackle the technical, regulatory and commercial challenges of transitioning energy networks toward hydrogen, biomethane and other future fuels; how pipeline infrastructure and materials must evolve; and how universities like UOW are willing to engage with commercial partners to translate research into real-world deployment.

APA Principal Materials and Welding Engineer, Maina Portella, was one of the presenters. As a former researcher at UOW and a current pipeline professional, Maina perfectly embodies the spirit of the event. Her presentation focused on how she bases her engineering decisions on industry research.

“The idea was to help students make the connection that the things they will learn in university – the research they can be part of – have real world impacts on engineering projects,” she told The Australian Pipeliner.

“We also talked about potential career paths in our industry, planting the seeds to attract future pipeline professionals.”

NSW WPF Chair Larissa Villas-Boas, Jemena Risk and Assurance Specialist, said she is extremely proud of the committee’s efforts in conceptualising and bringing such event to life, highlighting the importance of collaboration and inclusion.

“This event was unique in bringing together not only industry members but also academia representatives and students,” she said. “It was very rewarding to see students interested in learning more about the topics

presented and potential career pathways into the pipelines industry.”

The event also included a tour of the UOW’s hydrogen lab – a leading hydrogen pipeline safety facility and the only one of its kind in Australia.

“People really enjoyed visiting the lab,” Maina said. “ROSEN’s lab technician Brad Davis did a wonderful job explaining the functioning of the equipment and how tests are performed. The feedback on the tour was excellent.”

In fact, the entire day was very well received by attendees, who had much to say in praise of the event:

“Everything was perfectly arranged. The WPF Chair [Larissa Villas-Boas] made a special effort to personally introduce herself to everyone, which created a truly warm and inclusive atmosphere. Kudos to the entire team for organising such a fabulous session, especially the NSW Chair. A wonderful experience at the Women in Pipelines Forum!”

“A good mix of speakers and excellent lab tour.”

“The topics and format chosen were excellent, and the location was thoughtfully selected to include university students in the discussions. It was great to see such inclusive planning.”

“Maina did a fantastic job presenting, and Laura [Fothergill] chaired the sessions – both of them did so with confidence and professionalism. They were an excellent representation of APA, creating opportunities for and building connections between the industry and the UOW, as well as showing real courage in initiating, leading and managing the event.”

Overall, the event emphasised that future of the pipeline industry will not be about academia working in isolation nor industry simply buying technology. Instead, it will require cooperative designed research and development, shared risk, real-world trials, and a workforce with the right mix of skills and experience.

Safe, Reliable Pipeline Solutions

•Hot Tapping

•Line Isolation & Bypass

•Pipe Cutting

•Commissioning

•Decommissioning

•Equipment Maintenance

•Training

Pipeline perfection powered by people

The Australian Pipeliner takes a closer look at what makes PIPA so indispensable to the pipeline industry.

Almost everyone in the pipeline industry has heard of the Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia (PIPA), and perhaps just as many are familiar with the work it does in championing plastic pipe through education and advocacy. But few, no doubt, understand just how much work goes on behind the scenes.

The Australian Pipeliner was lucky enough to sit down with PIPA Australia Executive General Manager Cindy Bray for a rare glimpse at the inner workings of this machine. And what we found was a vast web of passionate and generous people, all dedicated to elevating the pipeline industry.

At a glance

Industry associations are crucial for advancing, standardising, and advocating for entire sectors, providing a unified voice and expert guidance that no single organisation could achieve alone, and here PIPA is no exception.

PIPA acts as the peak body for plastic pipes and fittings in Australia, dedicated to contemporary, best practice use of these systems across many different industries.

The approach to achieving this is fourfold. It involves advocacy through working closely with industry authorities, governments, and global partners; education through technical insights and training; technical leadership through setting standards for manufacturing, installation, and use; and sustainability through championing environmentally responsible design and recyclability in plastic pipe systems.

As the powerhouse behind PIPA Australia, Cindy Bray wears a lot of hats. On any given day she might be working with her technical committees developing or update industry guidelines, consulting with government bodies, educating on the critical role plastic pipes play – just not before a morning cup of coffee.

Bray has spent decades in the pipeline industry, with experience spanning marketing, technical roles, product management and innovation, which she said gives her a holistic view of the industry – a major boon in her position at PIPA.

“I suppose I’m a bit of a storyteller, sharing the story of plastic pipes,” she said.

“I’m constantly sharing our industry’s story with different audiences, explaining how

plastic pipes deliver essential services every single day. These pipes are hidden underground or behind walls, so most people don’t even realise the critical role they play. Yet plastic pipes are the unseen infrastructure that keeps our world moving – delivering clean water, energy, sanitation, and stormwater management. Though largely out of sight, they quietly improve our lives, keeping communities healthy, protecting the environment, and helping build a cleaner, more sustainable future. A great deal of expertise and care goes into keeping them running smoothly.”

One of the common challenges in the plastic pipe industry is overcoming negative perception due to a false conflation with single-use plastics.

Unlike single-use plastics, plastic pipes are engineered and designed to last more than 100 years, and at the end of their long life span can be recycled back into non pressure

manufacturing, use, repair, and recyclability.

“One of my favourite parts of the job is talking to people who know little about plastic pipes – or who may even have negative preconceptions about them,” Bray said.

“I enjoy talking about the role plastic pipes

“Plastic pipes perform vital and often unseen functions as part of our everyday lives. As part of the PIPA technical committees, I work on developing industry guidelines and technical documents for the safe, sustainable, and effective use of plastic pipes systems in a range of applications.”

Lucy Croker, Vinidex Product Applications Specialist

conversation, seeing their whole perception change is incredibly rewarding. If I can get that through to one person, they might go on to share it with someone else. Every conversation has an impact.”

The human engine Bray isn’t alone in her passion for the industry. The work PIPA does, particularly its technical guidelines and notes, is powered by the tireless contributions of its members.

Teams of industry experts develop technical guidelines, notes, and codes of practice that ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and sustainability across every stage of plastic pipe manufacturing and installation. These guidelines are regularly updated through research, international collaboration, and

“These teams consist of technical managers, engineers, or industry specialists, and most have dedicated decades to the industry. They come from various backgrounds – but every one of them lives and breathes plastic pipes. Their passion and expertise are what keep the sector moving forward,” Bray said.

“I think we often underestimate the value of these people and the depth of their knowledge. For them to volunteer their time, spending

“For me, PIPA represents a valuable and vital opportunity to be able to contribute and collaborate with my industry peers on a range of technical matters such as development of guidelines, standards and other materials that address a range of technical topics.”

, Iplex National Technical Services Manager

best practices. Similarly, Bray regularly collaborates with her plastic pipes associations international colleagues, drawing on a vast network of knowledge to advance the sector.

In September, PIPA Australia presented three technical papers at the Plastics Pipes Conference Associations PPXXII Global Conference in Warsaw, Poland.

“It’s exciting to share the research and initiatives we’re undertaking here in Australia with the world,” Bray said. “It’s truly worldclass work, and none of it would be possible without our members.”

Collaboration is our advantage

APGA Head of Communications and Operations Lawrence Shelton talks about carrying the Convention spirit into 2026.

The 2025 APGA Convention and Exhibition reminded us of something essential: our industry thrives when we share. It is collaboration that has long defined the pipeline sector in Australia. What we witnessed in Brisbane was a living example of that culture in action.

Throughout the Convention, professionals from across the supply chain came together not just to present their work, but to share their challenges, reflect on lessons learned, and offer solutions that others could take back to their own organisations. The effort behind this, preparing papers, delivering presentations, stepping into difficult conversations, was significant. It takes courage to be transparent. It takes conviction to turn your experience into insight for others. That willingness to contribute is what made the 2025 Convention exceptional.

The value of shared learning

From technical sessions to plenary panels, the Convention featured speakers who were unafraid to share not only what went right, but also what was difficult. We saw complex project case studies, emerging technology evaluations, operational challenges, and lessons from the frontlines of asset management. Each of these sessions reflected not just technical skill, but a deeper commitment to raising the collective capability of our sector.

We extend our thanks to every speaker, paper author, and panellist who took the time

to engage so meaningfully. The value of what was shared will ripple well beyond Brisbane, influencing how others approach their own projects and decisions.

This is what makes our industry, and our community through pipelines, unique. While we operate in a competitive space, we have proven time and again that we are capable of setting that aside in service of something greater, advancing the industry as a whole.

There is no better example of this spirit than the panels led by the Young Pipeliners Forum and the session on psychological safety. These conversations challenged us to broaden our view of industry leadership, not only in terms of technical excellence, but in how we support people, foster inclusive workplaces, and build for the long term.

Likewise, the work of the Pipeline Operators Group showcased a shared commitment to technical advancement and operational transparency. Presentations on redefining ‘unpiggable’ pipelines, and overcoming the limitations of in-line inspection under difficult conditions, spoke to the collaborative mindset that continues to push our industry forward.

None of this happened in isolation. It was made possible by our volunteers, our members, and the community that continues to engage with APGA throughout the year.

Looking ahead: The energy transition requires us all As we turn our focus toward 2026 and

beyond, this collaborative foundation will be more important than ever. The energy transition is accelerating. Our industry is being called upon to help deliver decarbonisation, ensure reliability, and support the evolving needs of communities, governments, and markets.

We cannot do that in silos. The complexity of the challenges ahead will require us to work even more closely across companies, sectors, and disciplines. It will require a shared language, a shared commitment to continuous learning, and a shared willingness to contribute. This is not just about responding to change, it is about leading it.

At APGA, we are deeply proud of the role we play in bringing the industry together. The Convention is just one piece of the puzzle. Year-round, we will continue to facilitate forums, site visits, webinars, and committees where ideas are exchanged, best practices are shaped, and progress is made.

But we cannot do it alone. The Secretariat will continue to rely on the industry to bring its voice to the table. We will rely on volunteers to lead conversations and challenge norms. We will rely on our members to invest in their people, to speak up, and to help shape the future of the pipeline sector.

The success of the 2025 Convention belongs to everyone who participated. The opportunity in 2026 and beyond lies in how we build on it. The invitation is open. The momentum is real. Let’s carry it forward together.

PIPELINE PROJECT AVIATION SOLUTIONS

Fleet Helicopters provides client focused aviation solutions for all stages of your pipeline project. From aerial surveys for pipeline easement identification, pipeline construction support and operational fugitive gas leak detection. Specialising in operations in Australia’s hardest to reach places we can cater to all of your aviation support needs.

Fleet Helicopters has been providing aviation services to private and Government sectors for over 41 years.

Fleet Helicopters specialises in operating in remote, difficult environments with an unmatched record for safety and reliability.

Fleet Helicopters operates a fleet of 19 aircraft ranging from single engine aeroplanes through to multiengine, heavy lift, transport category helicopters.

Fleet Helicopters has over 30 years history supporting the gas industry Australia wide providing charter, aerial survey, external load and gas leak detection operations.

Fleet Helicopters is the sole operator of the Boreal GasFinderAB laser based aerial gas leak detection system in Australasia. Leak detection surveys have been conducted for clients including SANTOS, Shell, the APA group, QGC and Origin Energy. The Boreal system ishighly sensitive with methane levels as low as 0.5ppm being detectable with surveys able to achieve up to 1000km of survey per day.

Highlights from a year of progress

At the heart of every event this year was a simple truth: we thrive when we connect. The Women in Pipelines Forum and our events this year became a place to find allies, mentors, and friends. The power of networking – of showing up for one another – was the thread that ran through every gathering, and it’s what made 2025 so unforgettable.

This year bought a series of events across the country, which couldn’t have happened without the hard work of our volunteers and sponsors:

In September, the NSW Women’s Pipeline Forum hosted Delivering the Future of Energy Together: The Critical Role of Research–Industry Collaboration, bringing together professionals from APA, ROSEN, Jemena, GIRA, and the University of Wollongong (UOW). Attendees participated in seminar sessions covering technical developments and regulatory updates in the pipeline and hydrogen sectors. A highlight of the event was a guided tour of the UOW Hydrogen Lab, which conducted mechanical testing for the Parmelia Gas Pipeline Hydrogen Conversion Project. The event also provided valuable networking opportunities with APGA members, industry leaders, and UOW engineering students and researchers. Special thanks to Maina Portella Garcia Barnett (APA) and the NSW WPF committee for organising an insightful and engaging event.

The Western Australia and Queensland Women’s Pipeline Forum state committees hosted two successful golf-themed networking events. The WA committee held a golf clinic sponsored by ROSEN, while the Queensland committee organised a

sponsored by PFP. Both events provided relaxed, engaging environments for members to connect outside of formal settings. Special thanks to Donna Fox (APA) from the WA committee, and to Kayla Pizzica (APA), Stephanie Johnson (PFP), and Elizabeth Wheeler (LERA) from the QLD state and advocacy committee for their efforts in coordinating these valuable networking opportunities. Elizabeth Wheeler also took out the longest female drive at the Vermeer Gold Classic at Convention – proof that practice pays off.

Our Victorian subcommittee held their second annual netwalking with executives event. Melbourne put on some fantastic weather where our attendees had an informal mentoring session with some great industry executives. The opportunity to share concerns and gain experience from each other was invaluable for both mentors and mentees. Thank you to the Victoria state committee, particularly Cara Robb and Katie Cuic.

Finally, in October, the APGA Convention was held in Brisbane, kicking off with the 4th annual Women’s Pipeline Forum networking event. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers and update their professional headshots. Guest speakers Allyson Woodford (APA) and Samantha Angelo (Zinfra) encouraged attendees to build authentic workplace environments and expand their networks. Throughout the convention, the WPF booth provided a space to engage with industry professionals and showcase some fun with mini golf. A special thank you to everyone who visited the booth, and to the volunteers who ran the hole-in-one competition and helped facilitate conversations throughout the week.

As we step into 2026, anticipation builds for what’s to come. Planned updates, new initiatives, including the Safety for All Code of Practice and evolving conversations promise to keep the WPF as engaging as ever. We invite every member – new and seasoned – to help shape the next chapter.

Passing of the baton

Collaborative research continues as GIRA takes over from Future Fuels CRC.

Ifollowing its formal establishment as the successor entity of Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre (FFCRC) earlier this year. With the FFCRC reaching the end of its seven-year term – preceded by the Energy Pipelines CRC’s 10-year term – the transition to GIRA and away from the CRC model is a change for the industry, but one that represents an opportunity for industry to drive innovation in developing the future of Australia’s gas infrastructure.

In addition to the formal set up of the company and the associated administrative processes, the recent focus of GIRA has been to continue the momentum of the FFCRC, while also using this period of transition to reset and refresh the research priorities. GIRA recently held an interactive ‘research planning workshop’, which was well-attended by approximately 30 key stakeholders from APGA’s research and standards committee and ENA’s gas technical reference group. During the workshop participants brainstormed, discussed, and ranked research ideas, providing a valuable input to ensure the research delivers practical outcomes which address the key challenges and opportunities for the industry. Based on the outcomes of the workshop, GIRA’s initial research plan is beginning to take shape, structured around

Research to inform the design, construction and repurposing of infrastructure, including topics related to materials/welding and the challenges associated with emerging fluids such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

• R P2: Gas infrastructure operations

• Research to enable the safe, efficient and sustainable operation of gas infrastructure, including emissions management, predictive maintenance, corrosion control and the mitigation of threats to pipeline integrity (such as geohazards, third-party interference).

• R P3: Strategic research

• Facilitating an improved understanding of the role of gas infrastructure in a changing energy landscape; topics include techno-economic modelling (such as biomethane viability), policy and regulation, and community and consumer understanding.

Building relationships and

developing

future pipeliners

The GIRA team has had the opportunity to participate and present at several recent industry meetings and events, once again continuing the FFCRC legacy of bringing people together and building relationships.

Wollongong, hosted by the NSW APGA Women in Pipelines Forum, with over 50 attendees including industry professionals, academics, researchers and undergraduate students. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and industry not only in terms of research outcomes used within the industry, but also as a pathway for the development, training and education of the future workforce.

GIRA also had the opportunity to engage with the broader pipeline community at the APGA Annual Convention and Exhibition, which included a joint presentation on the transition from FFCRC to GIRA delivered by David Norman (FFCRC CEO) and Doug Proud (GIRA Research Manager).

Some key themes discussed at the convention which align closely to the research plans of GIRA included technical, regulatory and economic challenges related to the decommissioning of infrastructure; management of aging assets and improvements in integrity management; design and safety management challenges for storage pipelines and CO2 pipelines; and international collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Skyward momentum

The Australian Pipeliner caught up with Fleet Helicopters after the APGA Convention.

For the team at Fleet Helicopters, the recent APGA Convention represented more than just another trade show. Instead, it marked a coming-together of past relationships, fresh leads and a chance for the company to showcase its continually evolving aerial-capabilities to the pipeline industry.

On the exhibition floor, the foot traffic was steady. “We’ve had some good conversations,”

Fleet Helicopters CEO Mike Watson told The Australian Pipeliner. “It sounds like there’s some fairly good, decent-sized construction projects coming up in the future that we hope to be a part of.”

Many of these discussions were with clients that Fleet Helicopters has worked with before. In some cases, those commercial ties go back decades.

“It was interesting to know that there are people still in the industry that we worked with almost 25 years ago,” Watson said.

Other attendees at the stand were new contacts, drawn by Fleet’s proven aerial prowess. One of the standouts on display was the company’s Boreal GasFinderAB laser system, an aerial leak detection technology.

“I think what resonated was the accuracy of the system and its history. People were surprised to hear we’ve been operating it

successfully for a long time – the technology has many runs on the board.”

Utilising the Boreal GasFinderAB laser system on board its helicopters, the company is able to scan pipeline infrastructure on an enormous scale to detect gas leaks.

“Our aerial leak detection surveys are much more economical and efficient than traditional ground inspections,” Watson said.

“The system uses an infrared laser that’s tuned to the frequency of light absorbed by methane. It’s very accurate and very sensitive, measuring down to 0.5 parts per million.

“And by measuring at the aircraft, it’s physically reading the gas rather than trying to sense it at a distance.”

Beyond gas detection, Fleet Helicopters also had productive technical conversations around equipment and personnel transport in remote areas. Multi-engine passenger transport, as well as the capability to transport equipment up to 1.5 tonnes, gives Fleet Helicopters a uniquely broad scope that few others can match. These capabilities enable the company to fly into truly remote easements and infrastructure corridors –terrain that wouldn’t be well served by road or fixed-wing operations. Reflecting on 2025, the company has cause to be proud.

The team ticked off a major aerial faultfinding project across New South Wales. The work required capturing high-definition imagery of more than 51,000 utility assets and flying more than 600 hours across roughly 7000km of easement. These numbers underline the scale and ambition of what is now achievable via aerial assetmanagement technology. Watson said the team is exploring ways to integrate artificial intelligence-based change recognition into these capabilities. In application, this technology would be able to analyse the difference in an asset’s health between surveys.

Looking ahead, Fleet Helicopters is excited about continuing the development of its aerial technology and exploring different avenues where it can be utilised.

“It’s only really limited by your imagination,” Watson said.

If 2025 was about scale, validation and technology build-out, then 2026 looks to be about application, extension and impact. For operators seeking rapid mobilisation of crews and gear, high-precision inspection services or advanced emissions detection capabilities, Fleet Helicopters stands ready to deliver.

World-first high pressure hydrogen pipeline isolation

Pipeline technology specialist STATS Group has played a leading role in SGN’s LTS Futures world-first project where a live 18-inch high pressure hydrogen pipeline was safely isolated.

STATS Group patented BISEP® tool –which is widely deployed on global oil and gas assets – has been proven as a leaktight line stopping technology which is safe to use on high pressure hydrogen pipelines.

Achieving the UK’s net zero emissions target presents one of the most complex and demanding challenges of our time. As the energy sector transitions away from fossil fuels, innovative solutions are needed to repurpose existing infrastructure.

The SGN LTS Futures project explored one such solution by converting the local transmission System (LTS) from transporting natural gas to hydrogen.

This initiative is ever relevant to STATS, with expertise in pipeline isolation, integrity, and intervention technologies that will be critical in enabling such transformations safely and efficiently.

The success of the trial is a significant development in the drive to meet net-zero emission targets and could lead to the repurposing of SGN’s 11,600km UK gas network from transporting hydrocarbons to hydrogen.

The project was part of SGN’s successful LTS Futures trial carried out on a representative 30km stretch of pipeline which runs from Grangemouth to Granton in Edinburgh.

SGN was delighted with the outcome and said the lessons learned on LTS Futures would create a blueprint for repurposing the entire LTS to hydrogen and provide a resilient backbone for a net zero energy system.

The scope of work included the installation of a DNV proprietary Grouted Tee, to provide access for STATS to perform hot tapping, line stopping, swarf (drill cuttings) dispersal, and completion plug installation. As part of the live trial, the STATS BISEP line stopping tool delivered a fail-safe, 100 percent leak-tight double block and bleed isolation.

The BISEP had to be validated to operate safely and leak-tight in high pressure hydrogen, which presented unique operational parameters. Unlike traditional line stopping technology, BISEP guarantees zero-leakage isolation, significantly increasing safety and reducing environmental risks.

STATS worked closely with DNV who

provided a Grouted Tee to provide a branch offtake suitable for use with hydrogen – which provides an alternative to live welding.

STATS Senior Business Development Manager Neil Mackay said close collaboration between SGN and STATS has proven the BISEP tool as the world’s only double block and bleed isolation technology for high pressure hydrogen pipelines.

“For the first time, hot tapping and leaktight line stopping operations have been successfully executed on a UK hydrogen pipeline, overcoming challenges of horizontal deployment, swarf dispersal, and hydrogen’s unique properties,” he said. “This required not just process adaptation but also the development of new procedures, tooling, and assurance processes.”

The safe isolation and modification of pipelines like the one used in the LTS Futures trial is essential to the entire hydrogen transition.

“Until now, no proven hot tapping or line stopping method existed which could ensure that repair, maintenance or modifications can take place safely and efficiently,” Mackay said.

“Not least the reduced emissions from the

For more information, visit statsgroup.com

use of BISEP technology whether in use for hydrocarbon gas or hydrogen.

“SGN provided leadership within the LTS Futures program, while STATS contributed world-class line stopping services, working alongside DNV to remove a fundamental barrier to hydrogen deployment.

“This innovation will support every UK network operator, benefit millions of customers, and accelerate decarbonisation. It is a world-first, delivered through collaboration, innovation and ambition, resulting in a body of evidence and operational knowledge that is transferable across the UK gas networks and beyond.”

SGN Chief Strategy and Regulation Officer Tony Green said the project is a milestone for SGN and the wider energy sector, showing that the UK’s gas infrastructure can be repurposed for a net zero future.

“It demonstrates both infrastructure and workforce readiness for hydrogen, with our skilled engineers gaining vital experience through the live trial,” he said. “Collaboration has been crucial, and working closely with INEOS and other partners has turned a complex concept into a success.”

Above. Beyond. Below.

Michels in Motion: Between March 2023 and February 2025, Michels completed 3 record-breaking HDDs in New South Wales. The 2,250-metre HDDs included elevation changes of 590 metres.

Secure isolation solution for performing hydrotests

Curtiss-Wright’s Double Block and Bleed Isolation Plug helps a Spanish refiner complete critical hydrotests faster, safer and more efficiently.

When the ILBOC refinery in Spain faced a tight maintenance window, Curtiss-Wright EST Group’s Double Block and Bleed (DBB) Isolation Plug provided the ideal solution.

Designed for quick, safe pipe isolation during maintenance and repair, the plug can be repositioned rapidly across new welds for successive hydrotests – saving valuable time and reducing operational costs.

The plug’s dual-port design creates a positive pressure barrier between its seals, securely isolating hot work areas from residual gases or fluids. Between the seals, test media such as water can circulate to improve cooling during pre- or post-weld procedures.

This design not only increases safety but also enhances workflow efficiency during pressure testing and maintenance activities.

To ensure the highest safety and performance standards, ILBOC’s maintenance crew worked closely with EST Group application specialists to determine the optimal plug size and seal materials.

Once the specifications were confirmed, EST Group quickly manufactured and delivered the plug, enabling ILBOC to conduct laboratory-simulated hydrotests to familiarise their team with its installation and operation before live field deployment.

“With the proper training from these lab simulations, we had assurance that we could safely install the plugs and carry out each hydrotest to the required pressure,” ILBOC Reliability Engineer Francisco Caparrós Quiles said.

The plug’s lightweight aluminum and steel construction allowed crews to reposition it easily between spools without cranes or heavy lifting equipment.

Because only a small section of pipe needed to be isolated, each test required less than one gallon (3.8L) of test media – significantly reducing fill times, waste volume, and treatment costs.

In live testing, the plug’s seals held firm at pressures up to 325 BarG (4714 PsiG). Every test was completed safely and efficiently, allowing the refinery to return lines to service faster while minimising downtime and labor costs.

Impressed by the performance, ILBOC has since committed to ordering additional plugs in various sizes for future maintenance operations.

Always ready, always reliable

Curtiss-Wright EST Group supports global customers with a comprehensive line of test and isolation plugs and maintains a large inventory ready for immediate shipment.

For specialised needs, 24/7 emergency design and manufacturing services are availablecustom-building plugs to match specific requirements for construction materials, pressure ratings, pipe sizes, and seal compositions.

Unlock the Power of Data

Elevate your asset integrity with unmatched data accuracy and unparalleled expertise

Our unique synergy of advanced inspection systems, cutting-edge analytics and human expertise allows us to transform data into knowledge. Knowledge enables smarter decision-making and delivers a comprehensive understanding of asset safety, lifetime, and performance.

critical lifelines. In 2025, the company drew broader attention in the industry as one of Australia’s pipeline problem solvers, combining world class capabilities with a deeply local, hands on approach.

Company owner Joe Buttigieg said that Pro Pipe Services has truly spread its wings in 2025.

“The highlight for us this year has been expanding well beyond our usual areas of business in Victoria and NSW.

One of the standout moments of 2025 was external industry recognition. At a T.D. Williamson Channel Partners Conference in Ankara, Türkiye, Pro Pipe Services was awarded the Best Performing Partner honour, acknowledging the company’s excellence in service to pipeline operators.

In the field, the company’s prowess in hot tapping, line isolation and pipeline services was tested on multiple fronts. Buttigieg said the business has cracked new markets in 2025,

“Whether it’s compressed air, gas, water, slurry, or anything like that, as long as it’s a pipeline, we can tap into it, we can isolate it, and we can perform the service and alteration that is needed.”

Closer to home, Pro Pipe Services played a pivotal role in infrastructure projects across Victoria’s Big Build.

“We’re playing our part in developing critical infrastructure to support the growth of Victoria,” Buttigieg said.

“We’ve delivered many gas pipeline alterations in support of the Big Build, where existing pipes need to be rerouted with minimal fuss to make way for new infrastructure like bridges and railway lines.”

This rerouting allows infrastructure projects to progress in a timely manner, minimising project costs as well as the impact on the community. Moving into 2026, Pro Pipe Services is looking to further expand its

business interstate on large-scale projects. Several such jobs are lined up for January, including a significant 30-inch bypass. Another focus area is increasing involvement in the early phases of projects. Typically, project designs are often completed without consultation with the teams who will eventually execute the work. This presents several challenges, the most common being the underestimation of space required to execute the work, and unnecessarily overdesigning when a specialised solution is already available. This disconnect can result in costly redesigns, lost time and logistical challenges.

Pro Pipe Services has been working hard to overturn this norm. By working with engineering consultation firms during a project’s design phase, the company can ensure flawless project execution every time.

This year has been a testament to Pro Pipe Services’ reliable and innovative work in the pipeline industry. And with the order book already filling up for 2026, the company’s journey is one to keep an eye on.

For more information, visit propipeservices.com

Bold ambition

Brisbane-based Austrack Equipment made waves at the 2025 APGA Convention.

In the hum of the exhibition hall at the APGA Convention, stand 84 commands the eye. Towering above the crowd is a striking 36-tonne excavator, kitted out with a distinct green vacuum-lifting attachment. The colourway is immediately recognisable, but the form is different. This is Austrack Equipment’s new SafeVac SV400i making its first public appearance.

The excitement it has generated comes at a cost though to those managing the stand, in the form of the sheer volume of interest.

Marketing and Communications Manager Mike O’Reilly admits there’s a touch of fatigue from his team setting in by the middle of day two. “We’ve done an awful lot of talking and we’ve had huge interest, which is fantastic.

“We’ve seen a lot of our own customers, but we’ve also met customers that we’d like to have in the future. Generally, response from the show has been a success.”

Located at the heart of the exhibition floor, the SV400i is impossible to miss.

“People can come, they can touch it, they can see it,” O’Reilly said. “They can inquire about all the things that it does.

“One of the best things about our stand is the presence of Dylan Gamble, who’s our Operations Manager, and, in a very real sense, the creator of this machine. There’s no bit of that machine that he doesn’t know. So, I’m really pleased he’s on the stand. He’s interacting with customers, he’s able to answer every question, and I think nobody walks away unimpressed.”

One of the standouts of the show for O’Reilly was the address by Honourable Dale Last, Queensland’s Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development. His address centred around accelerating gas developments and energy infrastructure projects in the state.

“The Minister then came and spent a little bit of time with us at the stand, and he seemed very impressed,” O’Reilly said.

“He was impressed with the fact that we’re a Queensland company that’s manufacturing locally. He seemed really excited by what we’re doing.”

Awards and ambition

Austrack found itself a finalist for the APGA Safety Award for its SafeVac Lifting System. Despite the strong showing, Austrack didn’t manage to clinch the award. “We missed out,” O’Reilly said with good spirits. “In competing, one has to put one’s hand up and submit to the best of your ability what you’ve got on offer.

While acknowledging the heft of the competition – including national and multinational firms with vast resources – he

emphasised the value in participation. “It won’t stop us coming back for more next year.”

That mindset of continual improvement is emblematic of the company. Austrack leverages its niche expertise and local manufacturing base to consistently punch above its weight.

Looking back on 2025, O’Reilly identifies a few standout achievements for Austrack. Firstly, the milestone of having over 25 SafeVac machines produced and operating in the field. Secondly, the company consolidated its increasing presence in the renewables space with a major equipment supply to a large

NSW wind farm development. The deal was sealed with Austrack suppling two on-site fitters to ensure that critical service backup is provided.

With the successful roll-out of the SV400i at this year’s APGA Convention, Austrack is clearly on the move. The next goal? To refine and expand after this year’s show, submit again for awards next year, and keep broadening its customer base.

For any contractor seeking equipment that not only does the job but is backed by a team that’ll stand behind every nut and bolt, Austrack is the name to remember.

Proven in the field

Operators share insights from McElroy’s Tritan 560 job sites.

Since its debut in 2022, the Tritan® 560 has redefined expectations on the jobsite. By combining key features from three of McElroy’s most innovative machines – the rugged portability and advanced technology of the TracStar® iSeries, the bottom-loading capabilities of the Talon™ 2000, and the flexible carriage of the Acrobat™ QuikFit® –the Tritan 560 was purpose-built for efficiency, safety, and ease of use.

At the heart of its innovation is the bottomloading carriage, which eliminates the need to top-load pipe, dramatically improving jobsite safety and operator visibility. With 360-degree carriage rotation and a multi-directional boom that raises, extends, and curls, the Tritan is designed to meet pipe where it lies. Operators control the machine remotely using the DataLogger® tablet, giving them a clear view of the work area and ensuring precise, safe movements.

In the years since its release, the Tritan 560 has proven itself in diverse environments, from urban infrastructure upgrades to rugged rural installations. Below, we share stories from the field, directly from contractors and operators who have put the machine to the test.

Training in Australia

Australia remains at the forefront of safety and efficiency on the fusion jobsite. In late March, a crew working on a project to install de-watering lines at a gold mine in Western Australia got the chance to fuse with the

Tritan – and they had nothing but positive takeaways.

The 500mm SDR26 de-watering line consisted of 20m sticks of pipe. Crews fused 60m strings of pipe at a time, later dragging the pipe to be tied into longer sections. When completed, this pipe will house a smaller, 315mm pipe.

With a combination of thin, bent pipe and uneven terrain, operators were faced with the challenge of aligning the pipe. Even positioning the pipe stands at the end of the pipe proved to be tricky, as trying to minimise the bend would sometimes cause the pipe to flip 180 degrees.

Once the pipe was at an acceptable position, the Tritan’s boom allowed operators to level the pipe ends, speeding up the entire process and reducing the need for additional heavy equipment. Because of the Tritan’s versatility, operators were able to effectively manage the thin pipe and successfully align it.

Even in a training situation, the Tritan proved itself with ease. The fusion team accomplished more welds in a single day than a previous contractor had completed in three days. In fact, the contractor was so pleased with the results that they quickly requested another Tritan for another mining job.

Above and below ground

In the UK, current infrastructure has been under enormous scrutiny in recent years due to existing water systems becoming

overwhelmed by rapid population expansion. That, coupled with changing weather patterns, has led to numerous events where wastewater was discharged into local rivers, impacting local ecosystems and populations.

When plans began for a project that would develop additional housing in the area, the decision was made to split the project into two phases. For the first phase, 6.2 miles (10km) of 560mm SDR11 through SDR17 polyethylene would need to be installed to begin linking the new housing to the wastewater works. Such a long stretch of pipe presented the perfect opportunity to showcase McElroy’s innovative Tritan 560.

Further boosting safety and efficiency, the Tritan 560 is wirelessly controlled with the DataLogger 7, McElroy’s ruggedised fusion tablet. This allows a single operator to control all parts of the pipe loading and fusion process. And thanks to the Tritan’s ability to meet the pipe where it lies, the fusion crew was able to efficiently and safely make fuses and drive the machine to the site where the next fusion needed to take place.

Once the first phase was completed, fusion work began on the second phase, which consisted of 160m of 560mm of SDR11 pipe into a concrete ducting. To accomplish this, the machine itself was lowered into a pit that sat 10m below level ground. The machine was put into the pit using an on-site crane, lowered down by the three lifting points on the machine.

In all, the Tritan 560 completed more than 300 welds, all of which were recorded using the DataLogger 7 and sent to the Vault™.

Harsh conditions

The LeBar Ranch, located between Bill and Douglas, Wyoming, spans 300,000 acres of land and boasts some of the United States’ best horses and cattle. In warmer months, the site is known for its rolling hills and green pastures. Winters, however, tend to be dry, windy, and bitterly cold, with sub-freezing temperatures typically arriving in November and lasting through April.

There, the Tritan 560 was put to the coldweather test, fusing pipe for a produced water reservoir being constructed on-site. A 12” DR9 line was installed to supply the water, with three 20” DR9 lines running out to various locations on the property for drilling and fracking.

The fusion itself took place during the coldest weather, with tie-ins done at a temperature right around freezing.

“The contractor discovered the combination of the bottom-loading carriage, proper placement of pipe supports, and unique functionality of the six-motion boom allowed them to manipulate the pipe at the interface to achieve the precise alignment they needed,” said Tritan 560 Product Manager Chris Greggs. “Using the Tritan 560, the contractor was able to produce more welds in a single day – using the same pipe and under the same

conditions – than the previous contractor had done in three days using conventional technology.”

All four lines were installed via boring at multiple locations and went under existing pipeline infrastructure in multiple locations.

“The Tritan 560 really made handling those big pipes a breeze. No hiccups – just smooth, precise work from start to finish,” said Chris Weight, Outside Sales and Branch Manager at Secor.

A successful experiment

In southwest Pennsylvania, amid hilly terrain and hot weather, a contractor opted to try out the Tritan 560 and see how well their operators took to the machine.

“They said they just hoped the machine didn’t slow them down compared to the TracStar machines they were using otherwise,” Greggs said.

The operator was familiar with the TracStar, McElroy’s industry-standard trackmounted fusion machine, but the Tritan controls were brand new to him. Though he described himself as not tech savvy or computer friendly, the Tritan 560 did remind him of one device he was comfortable using: his cell phone.

“He could manage his phone with ease,” Greggs said. “After some basic Tritan training, he went to work without hesitation.”

On this site, Greggs noted the contractors’ firm commitment to quality and

documentation, with steps documenting every step of the fusion process. With its DataLogger interface, the Tritan 560 made documentation much easier, consistently logging pertinent parameters for each joint.

The result? During the first day of fusion, the operator had tied the daily production record for the site. That day, the operator had fused as much pipe as they ever had with a TracStar.

“This was day one for this operator on the Tritan 560,” Greggs said. “For him to tie the production record on his first day using the machine, that speaks volumes toward the Tritan’s user-friendliness.”

By the end of the second production day – and with the same meticulous eye for quality and documentation – the operator broke the record set the day before.

Looking ahead

As these field reports show, the Tritan 560 is redefining what’s possible in pipe fusion, bringing safety, efficiency, and productivity gains to a wide range of job sites.

“In each of these situations, the Tritan 560 brought its unique capabilities to make the job safer and more efficient,” said Greggs.

And as people consider when and how to deploy the Tritan in their own operations, Greggs added, the question isn’t where the Tritan can be used to outperform other, more familiar machines. Instead, the question is where the Tritan doesn’t shine.

In step with an evolving industry

Inductabend is making essential improvements to its induction bending services to better align with the needs of Australia’s upcoming pipeline projects.

Since 1992, Australian-owned Inductabend has backed the pipeline industry with induction bending services, all made and delivered from Australian soil.

This eliminates the challenges sometimes associated with sourcing supplies and services from overseas, such as lengthy lead times, quality assurance, and after sales support.

Asset owners and contractors who partner with Inductabend reap the benefits of expert induction bending services and support within arm’s reach, all while backing a company deeply embedded in the Australian pipeline industry.

One of these benefits, said Inductabend Business Development Manager Nathan Crouch, is that extra bends can be shipped almost immediately.

“We are able to manufacture additional bends for our customers very quickly,” Crouch said.

“We hold project material that has been qualified in the initial production run. We can use that extra material to make bends and ship them out to site within roughly a week.

“No more ‘spare bends’ that are never the actual angle you need or may not get used at all.

It also significantly lowers the risk of costly construction disruptions due to factors like last minute changes in alignment.”

Inductabend pre-qualified stock program is another popular option for bends in a hurry.

Inductabend holds large quantities of DN100, DN150, DN200 and DN300 Std X52 PSL2 HFW pipe which is pre-qualified for 5D–10D radii (additional material may be carried by customer request).

“Bends from our pre-qualified bends program are a great resource for our customers,” Crouch said.

“The program allows us to deliver small or large quantities of fit for purpose bends at an economical rate in as little as 48 hours.”

Inductabend operates a range of specialised induction machines allowing the company to bend a vast range of pipe materials up to DN900.

Currently, the company is in the midst of an exciting upgrade to its portfolio which will significantly increase its bending capabilities.

The first phase of the project is a wiring and PLC upgrade to the Cojafex machine, which will provide greater process control. Phase two builds on this, adding in a state-of-the-art dual frequency induction heater, which will

The company has significantly bolstered its induction bending capabilities.

provide more options to tailor the process depending on wall thickness, diameter and material grade while improving energy efficiency and heating capacity. Finally, phase three will replace the traditionally fixed bending arm with a dynamic upgrade.

“The upgraded arm will remove the transition zone at the start and stop of the bend, which is typically the weakest part,” Crouch said.

“This marks a significant capability improvement, enabling us to produce higher grade bends with larger wall thickness and homogeneous material properties from end to end.”

For the Australian gas industry, these upgrades are timely. Some of the biggest names in gas are already hard at work improving Australia’s gas network or expanding existing gas projects in order to stave off shortfalls projected from 2028 and beyond.

“These upgrades will allow Inductabend to better meet the demands of Australia’s

developing gas network, which will require larger and higher-grade pipelines,” Crouch said.

But it’s about more than just business for Crouch.

As Chair of the Young Pipeliners Forum (YPF) – an entity of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association – future-proofing the Australian gas industry is something Crouch is passionate about on a personal level.

“Being part of the Young Pipeliners Forum is a great way for young people to network with their peers, learning from and growing alongside one another in the industry,” he said.

“The regular site visits we run also give people a chance to get out and see how things are done in the real world.”

“Ultimately, the Young Pipeliners Forum’s work is aimed at building a stronger pipeline community for the future.”

In that way, the YPF is not so different from Inductabend.

Seven questions to ask when evaluating new methane detection vendors

Bridger Photonics evaluates the key factors most important to operators and their emissions management programs.

Selecting a new emissions data provider is about more than technical capabilities –it’s about operational fit, reliability, and safety. These seven questions help oil and gas operators assess detection accuracy, response timelines, and data usability to ensure a strong alignment with existing safety and environmental management systems.

Switching or supplementing methane detection providers can introduce risks if not carefully evaluated. Asking the right questions early can help ensure data integrity, safe operations, and efficient compliance reporting, all while maintaining consistency in emissions management.

1. What is the detection sensitivity and probability of detection?

Detection sensitivity and probability of detection (PoD) should be supported by peerreviewed or third-party research. Controlled release or blind testing provides valuable benchmarks, though results may differ under real-world environmental conditions.

2. Can the system differentiate between persistent and intermittent emissions?

Identifying whether emissions are persistent or intermittent supports safe, targeted responses. Persistent emissions may indicate equipment faults requiring repair, while intermittent emissions may relate to standard operational processes.

3. Does the technology quantify emission rates?

Quantification helps prioritise repairs, support emissions inventory development, and provide data for compliance and risk assessments.

4. How precisely can emission sources be localised?

Pinpointing emission sources reduces field time, improves safety for crews, and supports effective maintenance planning.

5. How much area can the system cover per day?

Understanding scan coverage and frequency helps determine whether a provider can

deliver data at the scale your operations demand, without compromising detection quality or safety standards.

6. How and when will data be delivered?

Timely, well-structured data enables faster, safer response to significant emission events. Ask whether reports can integrate with your existing systems and regulatory frameworks, and whether urgent alerts can be provided.

7. Is short-notice scanning available?

Emergency response capabilities can be crucial after severe weather or operational disruptions. Confirm whether short-notice scans can be arranged to support incident investigation or verification needs.

Choosing an emissions vendor is about aligning with a team that prioritises operational integrity, data accuracy, and safety. References from other operators can provide valuable insight into real-world performance, data delivery, and support responsiveness.

WE CAN DO THIS THE EASY WAY, OR WE CAN DO THIS THE EASY WAY.

Need a pipe handling system to make your job faster, safer and easier? At Pipeline Plant Hire we have two flexible solutions ready to go. Hire and attach a PL1500 to your machine, or hire a fully-equipped VL machine as an efficient, all-in-one solution. All our vacuum lifter are capable of safely lifting 15 tonne. Our PL1500 integrates seamlessly with your host excavator using the main controls and hydraulics to operate the vacuum lifter. This system makes your life easier, more productive, and the whole site safer. Talk to us about a solution today.

Why coordination systems matter in the pipeline industry

In the pipeline world, precision isn’t a luxury, it is a necessity.

Pipelines run beneath farmland, under city streets, across rivers, and alongside other utilities. Once buried, they disappear from sight. Our only view of them comes from maps, survey records, and inspection data.

If that data is wrong by even as little as a metre, the consequences can be serious –including excavation in the wrong spot, striking another utility, misreading inspection results, and costly rework and delays.

The cause is often a simple but overlooked factor: coordinate systems. If your drawings, surveys, and inspection records do not share the same spatial reference, or if they are not correctly transformed, your ‘accurate’ map might be misleading. The risks are not just theoretical. Let’s look at how coordinate misalignment plays out in pipeline operations.

Potential real-world consequences

• Parallel pipelines in tight corridors –Two high-pressure pipelines, each carrying a different product, run side-by-side in a narrow easement. A maintenance crew heads out to excavate a section of one line. The as-built drawings are stored in one coordinate system. The GPS device in the field uses another coordinate system. Without accurate transformation, the resulting 1–2m offset could put excavation dangerously close to the wrong line, a mistake no one can afford.

• Working within dense urban infrastructure – Beneath a city street lies a network of pipelines, water mains, fibre optics, storm drains, and high-voltage cables. A crew plans to replace a valve. The maps show a clear workspace, but those maps come from different sources, each in a

different coordinate system. No transformation was applied. On the ground, that ‘empty space’ is home to a live power conduit.

• Drone-based surveying and monitoring

– Drones now patrol pipelines from above, capturing imagery and GPS data in WGS84 by default. The pipeline centreline in the GIS is stored in a different datum, but nobody realises. When the drone data is overlaid without transformation, features do not line up. A suspected encroachment might appear metres from its true location, risking wasted time or missed threats. These issues become even more complex in regions where the ground itself is moving.

Australia sits on one of the fastest-moving tectonic plates in the world, drifting northeast at about 7cm per year. Over decades, this adds up, making Australia an excellent candidate to demonstrate the importance of coordinate systems. The following coordinate systems are commonly used:

• G eocentric Datum of Australia 1994 (GDA94) – Fixed to Australia’s plate position in 1994. As of 2025 ~2 m out of sync with the current WGS84. Compliant with Australian government and regulators.

• G eocentric Datum of Australia 2020 (GDA2020) – Fixed to Australia’s plate position in 2020, Closely aligned with WGS84 at that date. As of 2025 ~0.4m out of sync with the current WGS84. Compliant with Australian government and regulators.

• WGS84 – Geocentric system tied to the Earth’s centre of mass and is the Global GNSS standard. Used for GPS devices etc. but less stable over time due to regular updates to the reference frame and therefore

changes in coordinates. The same location may have different coordinates at different times.

• For Before You Dig Australia (BYDA)

– The free service providing utility maps before excavation – alignment matters. Pipeline operators submit their asset locations to BYDA. If the data is misaligned, operator’s maps can be wrong, sometimes enough to cause an accidental strike. Here, the choice and correct transformation of coordinate systems are not optional – they’re the difference between safe excavation and a costly, dangerous mistake.

The ROSEN approach

The solution is not just ‘pick a coordinate system and stick with it’. Instead, it’s about building a GIS-led strategy that keeps all data aligned and accurate. This entails standardising all data in a single, authoritative coordinate system; anchoring every dataset to a trusted source of truth – the GIS-based pipeline network; and transforming incoming data automatically so it aligns perfectly with that source.

This approach ensures that whether you’re in a narrow corridor, a crowded urban setting, or a remote stretch of pipeline, what you see on the map matches reality on the ground.

In pipelines, ‘close enough’ is not good enough. Coordinate system awareness is not a box-ticking exercise, it is a cornerstone of safe, efficient, and compliant operations.

From parallel pipelines to crowded streets to aerial inspections, the message is the same: your data is only as good as the coordinate system it’s in.

Complacency causing companies cash leak

With the true cost of a rusty spare valve or pump being upwards of six figures, having a ready replacement is proving key.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars could leak from a business with a lack of ready replacement parts bringing production to a standstill – even for a few hours. That’s why Cortec® has repeatedly delivered corrosion solutions to help oil and gas facilities around the world reclaim thousands of dollars’ worth of warehoused assets from the grip of corrosion and keep spares at the ready.

For those who are ready to scrap their rusted spares and start over, these strategies may prove to be the best kept secret they need to reclaim asset value and maximise uptime.

Corrosion challenges for warehoused spares

registering a loss as high as an estimated $200,000-600,000, depending on current market prices.

Reclaiming the value of rusted spares

Fortunately, warehouses full of rusty spares can be reclaimed and kept in ready-to-use condition through the simple method of “Clean, Protect, Preserve” that Cortec representatives have implemented around the globe. Hundreds of parts can be restored by setting up rust removal stations and following the same basic steps.

1. Clean and degrease the part, if needed.

At first glance, an oil and gas facility may appear well-equipped for emergency repairs, with hundreds or thousands of spares stored on warehouse shelves.

A closer look may reveal that corrosion has formed over months or years of inadequate protection in a fluctuating warehouse climate of humidity and temperature swings.

Worse yet, many facilities have run out of warehouse space and reverted to storing piping, pumps, pulleys, and other parts on outdoor racks exposed to rain and sea spray. If a key pump or valve fails in production, maintenance will find it difficult to replace with a spare whose integrity is in question due to rust. Without an immediate backup, the costs of lost production can add up quickly, with just one hour of unexpected downtime

2. Immerse the part in a solution of VpCI-422 and periodically check rust removal progress.

3. R inse the parts in plain water to avoid contamination from one solution to another.

4. Neutralise/clean the parts in a solution of VpCI-414 (or a similar alkaline cleaner).

5. Dry the parts and preserve.

Once the parts are cleaned and restored to usable condition, they can be preserved in ready-to-use condition using a variety of Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor materials.

Some of the basics include VpCI-126 HP UV Shrink Film or MilCorr® VpCI Shrink Film for wrapping small and large inventory, supplemented internally by VpCI emitters or VpCI fogging fluid as needed.

The durability of these materials may even make it possible to turn outdoor storage racks

into safe storage areas for spares, protecting them against both UV damage and corrosion.

Each preservation process should be carefully documented for integrity insurance, allowing maintenance to go directly to the proper shelf with the confidence that the spare is ready to unwrap and immediately install for minimal downtime.

The losses from one hour of unplanned downtime or scrapping an entire warehouse of corroded oil and gas spares are no joke. That’s why understanding the secret of a sound restoration preservation and warehousing plan can lend so much value to a facility’s bottom line.

These products are available through Savcor Products Australia in Australia and New Zealand.

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Vermeer T755III: Built for pipeline infrastructure, ready for more

Australia’s trenching market demands equipment that delivers speed, accuracy and reliability. The Vermeer T755III Track Trencher is engineered specifically for this purpose, making it a preferred choice for mid to large-scale trenching projects.

From gas pipeline infrastructure to utilities installation for housing developments, the T755III consistently delivers high-performance trenching across a wide range of applications.

Powered by the Caterpillar C9 ACERT Tier 3 engine, the T755III produces 205 kilowatts at 2200 rpm. Its large fuel tank supports extended operation, reducing the need for frequent refuelling and allowing crews to maintain productivity throughout the day. This translates into cost savings by minimising idle time and keeping the machine working for longer between stops.

Designed for precision, the T755III offers boom depths up to 3m and cutting widths between 356–914mm. These specifications allow operators to match trench dimensions precisely to pipe size and ground conditions. The machine has been successfully deployed across Australia, proving its capabilities in diverse terrain and climates.

Compared to standard excavators, trenchers like the T755III offer significant

advantages in both speed and accuracy. While excavators rely on repetitive digging and repositioning, the T755III operates in a continuous motion. This allows it to dig trenches up to 3–4 times faster, with cleaner trench profiles and consistent depth. The result, a reduction in cost in production compared with conventional excavation, coupled with less back fill and better pipe bedding, which are critical for long-term infrastructure integrity.

SmartTEC electronic control software enhances operational efficiency by providing real-time prompts and performance monitoring. Operators benefit from intuitive feedback that supports proactive maintenance and consistent output. For sloped terrain, the optional Auto Tilt Track system maintains trench verticality on inclines up to 10 degrees, ensuring accuracy even in uneven ground.

The elevating ROPM cab offers excellent visibility of the trench and discharge conveyor, while pressurised and filtered air,

climate control and LEXAN glass provide a comfortable and secure environment for operators working long hours in harsh conditions.

While its primary role is in pipeline infrastructure, the T755III’s versatility extends across the broader trenching market. It is well-suited for civil works, agricultural applications, fibre installation, irrigation channels, drainage systems, power and communications networks, and rural utility lines. This broad scope makes it a valuable asset for contractors operating across multiple sectors and project types.

Vermeer Australia supports the T755III with a vast dealer network, expert technical assistance, and access to genuine parts and service. Whether you're working on a major pipeline installation or preparing farmland for irrigation, Vermeer Australia ensures that your equipment is backed by responsive support and industry expertise. The T755III is more than a trencher, it is a reliable, multi-purpose solution built for Australia’s toughest jobs.

‘Best on the market’ bags lead the way

Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags have become the go-to choice for Australia’s

across Australia for more than 55 years, with no signs of stopping.

provides a reliable solution for pipeline bedding, and its Pack Tuff bags are supplied with timely service and competitive pricing.

The company’s primary material is sustainably sourced Australian softwood and hardwood fibres, and its eco-friendly products are biodegradable and chemical free.

Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are both durable and uncompromising, essential factors in facilitating multiple re-uses in the heavy-duty pipeline industry.

Offering durability, ease of handling, and eco-friendly design, the Pack Tuff bags are equipped to handle everything from major gas and water pipelines to long-term storage facilities.

Light, yet hard-wearing and resilient, the bags are an ideal solution for protecting assets, not only on-site but also during transportation of the pipes and for storage in laydown yards.

Pollard’s Director Peter Brennan said this is a strong point of difference with the product.

“The Pack Tuff bags can withstand a lot of hammering,” he said.

“Companies choose our bags because they can take a great deal of rough handling and tossing about on job sites.”

Pack Tuff bags are ideal for medium-tolong-term storage, for reliable transport applications, and for supporting pipes up off the ground.

The bags are also available in three convenient sizes to suit all diameters of pipes

By comparison, hessian bags can deteriorate and tear easily which will render them useless;

product like Pack Tuff is essential to allow for multiple re-uses, particularly in a heavy industry such as pipelines. Sawdust filled Pack Tuff bags are far lighter than alternative options such as sandbags, and this allows for easier maneuverability and lowers risk from an occupational health and safety perspective.

Providing a flexible service, Pollard’s freight its Pack Tuff bags across Australia with pallets arriving on-site stretch-wrapped and weatherproof.

Major projects that have utilised Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags include the Victorian Desalination Plant, the Northern Gas pipeline, the Lake Way Gas pipeline, with both the Wentworth to Broken Hill pipeline in NSW and the Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline in Queensland requiring 25,000 bags each. Clients include industry leaders such as McConnell Dowell, Steel Mains, MPC Kinetic, Spiecapag, John Holland, Nacap, and Pipecraft.

Pipecraft Construction Manager Chris Carlyon said Pollard’s products are his preferred choice.

“As always, Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are the best on the market,” he said.

In addition to the Pack Tuff bags, the company supplies several other hard and softwood products Australia wide.

These include a variety of chemical free and graded sawdust products which can be used for a range of applications in addition to pipe bedding, such as animal bedding, absorbing oil and chemical spills, horticultural applications, and as a composite component for a multitude of end products.

All are made from high-quality, chemicalfree sawdust and wood shavings –part of what keeps long-term customers coming back.

The global stage for trenchless innovation

New Zealand International Convention Centre, Auckland 28 – 29 October 2026

Tracking the latest appointments

In this regular column, The Australian Pipeliner celebrates new appointments in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific’s pipeline sector.

Craig

Acting Managing Director

Greater Western Water

Greater Western Water has announced Craig Dixon as its acting managing director.

Dixon joins GWW on executive secondment from Melbourne Water, bringing extensive leadership experience across utilities and complex stakeholder environments.

He is passionate about delivering better outcomes for customers and creating lasting, positive change in the communities that GWW serves.

Aoife O’Sullivan has joined Pipe Tek as Administration Assistant. She will be working alongside Business Manager Rebecca Burns handling administrative duties such as scheduling the crews on the roster, preparing and providing onboarding documentation for clients, organising company travel – and all of the nitty gritty in between.

“Having worked on site in the pipeline industry for a few years, it would be hard not to know who Pipe Tek are,” she said.

Matt Runchey has joined T.D. Williamson as Pipeline Integrity Regional Manager –a newly created role, demonstrating the company’s commitment to customers in Australia and New Zealand.

“This is a very exciting time for T.D. Williamson in Australia,” Runchey said.

“While we have been supporting the region remotely from the UK over the last few years, we are now committed to establishing and growing a permanent presence in this key market.

“The role is a blend of sales and operations management that suits

Dixon is eager to get to know the teams and hear from the communities in the GWW catchment area, as the company continues to work together to build a strong, customer-focused organisation.

“I’d worked with them a few times and made a good relationship with them, so when my last project finished, I hopped on board with the team.

“I’m looking forward to learning more about the industry, understanding how critical it is to the energy transition. I’m really excited to be working with Pipe Tek – I love the team, I love the work, and I can tell you there is never a dull moment.”

me very well and I am looking forward to delivering for our new and existing customers.”

Runchey said his immediate focus is on meeting with customers and understanding how the company can best address their pipeline integrity challenges.

“As we build momentum and secure more work, I look forward to increasing the local T.D. Williamson footprint, with both personnel and tools being fully managed in country.”

If your company has recently employed a new person within your business you would like profiled in ‘People on the move’, send details of the career news alongside a high-res photo to Editor Timothy Bond at tim.bond@primecreative.com.au

WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER.

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS FOR AUSTRALIA’S PIPELINE INSTALLATION.

SmartTEC Performance Software helps maximise machine performance by assisting operators with adjustments to machine controls during operation, and monitoring and recording machine performance, which can be analysed by the machine owner or fleet manager. Contact your local Vermeer Australia team to learn how we can support your project.