Goldfields Superpipe Project 

Project summary

The Goldfields Superpipe Project, valued at $12.3 million, involved constructing three pump stations, break tanks, a mini-hydro-electric plant, and direct connection works to the White Swan Water Treatment Plant (WTP). This project aimed to enhance water infrastructure and supply in the Goldfields region. The precise coordination and meticulous planning by the project management team were critical in meeting the tight delivery timeline and overcoming technical challenges

…what we did on this project

The Goldfields Superpipe Project was designed to improve the water infrastructure in the Goldfields region. Key components of the project included the construction of three pump stations and associated break tanks to ensure consistent water pressure and flow, the installation of a mini-hydro-electric plant to generate sustainable energy from water flow, and the integration of the pipeline directly to the White Swan Water Treatment Plant, allowing bypass of the White Swan Reservoir when necessary.

The project was characterised by its tight delivery timeline, requiring precise coordination and meticulous planning. The direct connection to the White Swan WTP posed significant challenges, necessitating a brief shutdown period for the plant. During this window, on-site welding of steel pipe elements, and installation and commissioning of actuated valves and control systems were conducted.

Executing the Goldfields Superpipe Project involved overcoming several technical and logistical challenges, including the need to complete the project within a strict timeframe to minimise water supply disruption, the requirement for a brief plant shutdown to integrate with the White Swan WTP, and the necessity for seamless coordination among various teams and precise programming of tasks to meet project deadlines. Advanced scheduling techniques, rigorous quality control, and continuous stakeholder communication were pivotal in achieving these outcomes.

One of the standout innovations of the Goldfields Superpipe Project was the installation of a mini-hydro-electric plant, harnessing the kinetic energy of water flow to generate electricity, contributing to the project’s sustainability and energy efficiency. The direct connection to White Swan WTP provided a more resilient and adaptable water supply system, showcasing advanced construction techniques and coordination. Rigorous scheduling tools and methodologies ensured all tasks were completed on time, including detailed planning of the White Swan WTP shutdown period.

Synchronised efforts across different teams were managed using advanced coordination software and programming techniques, aligning each phase with the overall schedule and quality requirements. Sustainable construction practices were emphasised, incorporating renewable energy generation and environmentally friendly solutions.

The successful completion of the Goldfields Superpipe Project on time and within budget stands as a significant achievement in enhancing the water infrastructure of the Goldfields region, underscoring the importance of meticulous planning, coordination, and skilled project management.