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South East Thornlands Construction of Pump Station 165 Rising and Gravity Main


Project Scope

The South East Thornlands Sewerage upgrade works involved the construction of a new Pump Station (PS165) in conjunction with ±2000m of sewer rising main and ±800m of sewer gravity main.


The project showcased a number of innovative construction techniques, including the use of horizontal directional drilling, pipe bursting for increasing the diameter of an existing pipeline and the construction of the pump station using caisson methodology.


Scope for general works throughout the project included:

  • Earthworks
  • Concrete Works
  • Roadworks
  • Bituminous Surfacing
  • Trench Excavation
  • Pay Laying
  • Sinking Caissons
  • Precast Component Installation

  • A particularly challenging aspect of the project was the continuation of works throughout unprecedented bad weather events and the accommodation of large quantities of groundwater not shown within the project geotechnical report. Furthermore the excavation for the gravity main at depths of up to 8m posed both constructability and safety issues, which through careful consideration and vigilance were overcome.


    The sewer line alignment was in close proximity to several roads and private property boundaries, hence the need for comprehensive traffic management plans and engagement with local property and business owners. Weekly reports were submitted to keep the Client abreast of affairs and fortnightly meetings provided further feedback.


    The contract was successfully completed on time and without major incident, despite particularly adverse conditions. Doval’s good performance under this contract was instrumental in the award of further contracts to Doval by Redland City Council.



    Key Staff

  • Ben Dyson – Construction Manager
  • Ryan Rumble - Project Manager
  • Allan Smith - Site Supervisor

  • Challenges

  • Adverse weather conditions throughout the duration of the project, specifically for the construction at depth of gravity main and pump well
  • Unexpected groundwater and substrata encountered at multiple locations throughout the project
  • Management of multiple specialised subcontractors, including pipe bursting / cracking and horizontal directional drilling
    • Project:

      South East Thornlands, Construction of Pump Station 165, Rising and Gravity Main

    • Location:

      Cleveland-Redland Bay Road, Thornlands, Qld

    • Client:

      Redland City Council

    • Practical Completion:

      September 2013

    • Contract Period:

      9 Months

    • Contract Value:

      $2.6 million