The Sound of Success: Engineering Acoustic Excellence from the Ground Up

Rodney Stevens Acoustics delivered precise, compliant acoustic solutions at Newgreens Precinct, balancing urban density with tranquil design.

Rodney Stevens Acoustics

Rodney Stevens Acoustics (RSA) was instrumental in delivering a carefully calibrated acoustic environment for the Newgreens Precinct in Chatswood. Drawing on decades of experience, RSA ensured the project met the highest standards of acoustic performance and compliance from initial design to post-construction monitoring.

“Our approach begins by determining the existing noise environment of the area,” explained Desmond Raymond, Director at RSA. “We look at two key aspects: the noise entering habitable spaces and the noise emitted by the development during operation, both of which must meet strict EPA limits.”

The team conducted long and short-term ambient noise surveys across multiple site locations to understand the background soundscape, particularly in relation to the nearby Lane Cove River and bushland. “This allowed us to apply accurate EPA noise limits and ensure the precinct didn’t compromise the tranquility of its natural surroundings,” Desmond said.

To support the precinct’s diverse uses, from communal areas to wellness spaces, Rodney Stevens Acoustics collaborated closely with the architects and designers. “We worked to ensure wall and flooring systems had high acoustic performance. Where needed, we upgraded materials to improve attenuation and reduce sound transfer between zones,” said Desmond.

During construction, RSA followed the NSW EPA’s Interim Construction Noise Guideline to manage and minimise disturbance to neighbouring communities. “We installed noise and vibration meters to constantly monitor compliance. If limits were exceeded, we paused work to reassess and collaborate with the construction team on solutions.”

“Our acoustic specifications align with state and EPA environmental goals,” Desmond said. “By maintaining acoustic amenity throughout construction and operation, we supported the precinct’s broader commitment to eco-conscious, liveable design.”

For more information contact Rodney Stevens Acoustics, phone 02 9943 5057, email info@rodneystevensacoustics.com.au, website www.rodneystevensacoustics.com.au

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AI Site Inspections: Navigate Compliance Complexity and Achieve Collaborative Issue Resolution

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As Australia’s construction codes continue to evolve, AI-assisted inspection systems are poised to become more than just a technological upgrade—they are becoming essential infrastructure for the industry.

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No foul Play: Coover’s Vapour Mitigation Scores Big at Bundha

Coover Vapour Mitigation Services ensured long-term safety with a tailored vapour mitigation system for Bundha Sports Centre.

Coover Mitigation Services

As part of the transformation of the former Fitzroy Gasworks into the Bundha Sports Centre, Coover Vapour Mitigation Services was engaged to deliver a tailored vapour mitigation system (VMS) designed to protect and shield the facility from harmful ground gases and vapour. The requirement to incorporate a VMS into the final building form was completed as part of an EPA Environmental Audit of the former Fitzroy Gasworks site.

“As the site once operated as a large gas generation facility, operations at the site contaminated the underlying soil and groundwater said Ivan Devcic, Managing Director and Principal. “Our VMS protects the building and its occupants from harmful volatile organic ground gases such as BTEX, PAHs, and phenols.

Coover’s solution combined an active venting system with a gas-proof barrier membrane. The system, integrated directly beneath the ground slab, continuously intercepts, collects, and expels contaminated gases, with minimal visual impact to the finished structure. The solution was a key requirement of the site’s EPA Environmental Audit and was delivered with rigorous construction quality assurance (CQA).

“The success of the VMS came down to high workmanship standards and detailed planning,” Jake Daffy, Coover’s VMS Construction Manager explained. “We implemented a comprehensive CQA Plan, developed in collaboration with Built Environs, subcontractors, and the EPA Environmental Auditor.”

Throughout construction, Coover navigated complex challenges, including in-ground work coordination with plumbing and structural teams, and design changes requiring agile project management.


“Our team remained adaptable, innovative, and focused on the successful delivery of a system that would perform reliably for the designed life of the building,” said Jake.

To ensure ongoing protection, the VMS is monitored remotely using CooverTrak telemetry, guaranteeing the building and its occupants are protected well into the future.

“Urban renewal sites like Bundha require sophisticated environmental safeguards,” Ivan added. “Coover is proud to support projects that bring long-term community benefit, transforming legacy contaminated industrial land into safe and modern community facilities.”

For more information contact Coover Vapour Mitigation Services, phone 0419 885 456 (Ivan Devcic) or 0420 986 159 (Jake Daffy), website www.coover.com.au

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Bridging the Gap: Safer Roads, Smarter Solutions for Darwins Transport Network

Sitzler, a leading Australian civil and infrastructure contractor, is at the forefront of delivering the Tiger Brennan Drive and Berrimah Road Overpass Project in Darwin, NT. The project showcases innovative engineering, sustainability, and meticulous planning, Sitzler tackled complex challenges with precision.

Sitzler

As the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) contractor, Sitzler managed the construction of a grade-separated intersection to improve safety, capacity, and freight efficiency on one of the Northern Territory’s busiest transport corridors.

“This project is a game-changer for the region,” said Rod Jeffrey, Project Director at Sitzler. “We’re not just building an overpass—we’re ensuring safer, more efficient transport connections for thousands of commuters and freight operators every day.”

The construction of high-fill embankments for the overpass was one of the project’s most demanding challenges. Sitzler employed geotechnical reinforcement techniques, including geogrid-reinforced soil structures, to ensure stability, reduce and manage settlement over time.
“Excavating 45,000m³ of Class 2 rock was no small feat,” Rod explained. “We had to implement staged excavation and controlled blasting to ensure safety and precision while minimising disruption to ongoing traffic.”

The bridge design and construction required careful planning and staging to maintain traffic flow. Sitzler used a combination of precast and cast-in-situ elements, including precast post-tension girders and parapets, to optimise the program and minimise traffic impacts.

“Sitzler has a significant team of engineers and experienced bridge builders that were mobilised for the project and worked closely with the Sitzler traffic management specialists to maintain traffic flows at all times. The safety of our workforce and the safety of the friendly public, as well as other stakeholders, was preeminent,” said Rod Jeffery.

To streamline the project and enhance safety, Sitzler integrated cutting-edge digital tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and automated surveying technology.

“Using BIM allowed us to visualise the entire overpass in detail before construction even began,” Rod noted. “This meant fewer errors, faster decision-making, and better coordination between all teams on-site.”

Automated surveying and real-time data monitoring were also deployed to optimise grading, alignment, and embankment stability, ensuring precise execution of all structural elements.

To accelerate construction and maintain quality control, Sitzler relied on prefabrication and modular techniques wherever possible.

“Precast bridge segments and preassembled drainage culverts reduced on-site work, improved safety, and helped us meet tight project deadlines,” Rod said. “It’s an approach that not only saves time but also enhances overall build quality.”

These modular components were manufactured off-site in a controlled environment, ensuring consistency and reducing waste, aligning with the project’s sustainability goals.

Sitzler placed a strong emphasis on eco-friendly construction practices, integrating sustainable materials and environmental protection measures throughout the project.

“We’ve incorporated recycled materials in the road base and fill, and we’re using low-carbon concrete to reduce emissions,” Rod explained. “Sustainability is a major focus for us, and we’re always looking for ways to minimise environmental impact while maintaining durability.” Vegetation and erosion control measures were also implemented to protect surrounding ecosystems and prevent runoff pollution.

“This overpass is going to make a real difference to the way people and goods move through Darwin,” Rod said. “We’re honoured and delighted to be part of such a transformational infrastructure project that will serve the Northern Territory for decades to come.”

As Sitzler continues to deliver complex infrastructure projects across Australia, the Tiger Brennan Drive/Berrimah Road Overpass Project stands as a testament to the company’s engineering expertise, commitment to innovation, and dedication to sustainability.

For more information contact Sitzler, website www.sitzler.com.au

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Strengthening Darwin’s Infrastructure with Technical Excellence and Vision

JT Harvey Construction delivered drainage, culverts, headwalls, wingwalls, and a pedestrian underpass for Tiger Brennan Drive Overpass.

JT Harvey

JT Harvey Construction, a Darwin-based company specialising in civil and commercial projects, was integral in delivering the Tiger Brennan Drive and Berrimah Road Overpass project.

“We completed all the drain works, culverts, headwalls, wingwalls, and even the pedestrian underpass for pathway traffic,” said Director Jeff Harvey, who founded JT Harvey Construction in 2016. These critical components not only facilitated safe pedestrian access but also supported the overall structural integrity of the bypass.

The Northern Territory’s notorious wet season posed significant challenges during the project, requiring JT Harvey Construction to adapt their methods. “The monsoonal season is hot and crazy—imagine pouring concrete with 90% humidity. It’s something you get used to,” Harvey said. “We had to carefully consider the impact of rain while lining the drains with concrete. Luckily, the wet season didn’t significantly impact our progress.”

“On a big site like this, things change by the hour,” Harvey noted. “We worked hard to complete our package so that other trades could move forward behind us. Collaboration was crucial to keeping the project on track.”

Beyond technical execution, JT Harvey Construction upheld its commitment to safety and sustainability. “Safety is ingrained in everything we do. My background in compliance ensured that we met every requirement on site,” Harvey said. The team also participated in workforce engagment initiatives led by principal contractor Sitzler, including milestone-driven site-wide activities like appreciation barbecues that fostered camaraderie across teams.

The results of JT Harvey Construction’s work are already evident. “The methods we implemented based on the construction design are performing as intended,” Harvey stated. “It’s rewarding to see the project not just completed, but truly making a difference for the community.”

Jeff Harvey brings over 16 years of diverse experience in the construction industry to every project. Starting as a qualified on-site carpenter, Jeff’s curiosity and drive quickly set him apart, leading him to gain hands-on experience across various facets of the industry. His career progression saw him take on project management roles with some of the Northern Territory’s most respected construction companies, including Sitzler, Halikos, and Kalidonis. Holding a Certificate IV in Construction and a wealth of practical expertise, Jeff is known for his strong leadership, strategic thinking, and exceptional interpersonal skills. His commitment to transparency and problem-solving ensures that JT Harvey Construction delivers projects with integrity, efficiency, and excellence.

JT Harvey Construction is a Darwin-based company recognised for its versatility and expertise in managing diverse construction projects. From project management to building and refurbishment, their services encompass structural steel fabrication, stud wall construction, and skilled trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry.

The company also excels in internal and external works, offering solutions like demolition, landscaping, and irrigation system installation, alongside specialised troubleshooting and project recovery for challenging builds.

With a focus on precision and meeting deadlines, JT Harvey Construction ensures every project is completed to the highest standard. Operating across the Greater Darwin area, regional and remote Northern Territory, and the Kimberley region of Western Australia, they are a trusted name in delivering high-quality outcomes in even the most demanding environments.

Employing 15 skilled professionals and prioritising local engagement, the company is dedicated to fostering Indigenous apprenticeships and workforce diversity. “Our mission is to deliver projects that are safe, efficient, and built to last,” said Harvey.

As the Tiger Brennan Drive Overpass continues to enhance daily commutes, JT Harvey Construction’s role in its success underscores the company’s expertise and dedication to the Northern Territory’s growth.

For more information contact JT Harvey Construction, Shed 14, 90 Dickward Drive, Coconut Grove NT 0810, phone 0406 256 128, email admin@jtharvey.com.au

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