Pumped Hydro in Queensland

Transportation of Over-Sized, Heavy Equipment: Overcoming multiple obstacles

This critical infrastructure project presented a unique challenge: transporting heavy equipment safely to the jobsite in far north Queensland. Given the limitations of the heavy haulage market in Australia, only a few suitable options were generally available. The key difficulty was the need to use a narrow trailer to pass bridges with restricted width clearance.

Over a period of 12 months, the project was successfully managed through close cooperation with various stakeholders – including the client, transport companies, engineering teams, councils and road authorities. This joint effort overcame all transport challenges, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of the equipment to the remote jobsite. Extra attention was given to working closely with road authorities, councils and First Nations communities to respect all regulations while prioritizing the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Various method statements and transport management plans were submitted and discussed with the authorities to gain the approval for the proposed transport method. Additionally, engineering studies indicated the need to source a narrow trailer. Bridge reinforcements, carried out by a specialized Queensland-based company, were also part of the complex solution to make this project a success.