Defence

RAAF Amberley Battlefield Airlifter

Location
Amberly, Queensland
Value
$62 million
Client
Laing O’Rourke Australia on behalf of the Department of Defence
Status
Complete
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About the project

BMD Constructions was contracted to deliver three packages of works as part of the Battlefield Airlifter Main Operating Base Facilities project including providing necessary working, logistics, training, maintenance and technical facilities to support the introduction of the C-27J Battlefield Airlifter aircraft.

Scope

Construction of pavements for Area B Operational Facilities including the Hangar and Squadron HQ building, 35SQN Apron/Taxiway, Maintenance Workshops, 23SQN Working Accommodation, Canberra Drive and the Fire Station/Bureau of Meteorology facility

Construction of a new apron including high mast airfield ground lighting and hydrant refuelling

Bulk earthworks

Construction of new headquarters, a hanger, maintenance and warehouse facilities, and a new simulator and training facility

Site enabling works for purpose-built facilities to maintain, operate and sustain 10 new small Hercules freight planes

Civil works

Outcomes


BMD Constructions avoided potential costly construction techniques by proactively undertaking detailed early investigation and modelling works of underground services. The project team also suggested design changes to the hydraulics system which reduced overall project costs and construction duration, as well as removed the need for a sewer pump station.

The project team was committed to working collaboratively with the client to ensure best for project outcomes. When original staging and decanting plans caused overlap between civil and building works, BMD worked with the client and subcontractors to ensure the most efficient methods of construction and installation were prioritised. Issues with per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance levels onsite proved challenging however, the project team, worked with the client to continue works whilst satisfying compliance.