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
