Monbulk Water Pump & Penstock Renewal

Due to its aging infrastructure, this was a vital upgrade for the water pump station. The primary goal was to replace outdated components and implement a temporary bypass system to ensure uninterrupted operations.

The project involved replacing three 110KW vertical turbine pumps and various ancillary assets - necessary upgrades to ensure the station would continue to meet the demands of water processing and delivery with improved reliability and performance. A key challenge in the project was designing and executing the temporary bypass system to maintain operations and ensure continuous water supply during the 90-day upgrade period, as it had to comply with Melbourne Water’s Operational Requirement and Safety Standards, provide adequate mechanical protection and meet all operational standards. The project was delivered under a zero-harm policy, prioritising the safety of all personnel involved. Environmental management was also a crucial aspect, ensuring that all activities complied with relevant regulations and minimised impact on the surrounding environment.

The project's delivery posed several technical and logistical challenges, such as space constraints that made the use of submersible pumps unviable and ensuring the temporary bypass system’s components provided adequate mechanical protection. Touch Projects’ management approach included cash flow forecasting and reporting, rigorous change management processes, coordinating site investigation diving activities, and providing detailed input on construction methodologies and technical aspects of the bypass system. A key innovation was the introduction of an alternative solution for vibration monitoring equipment, which met technical requirements whilst offering significant savings and compatibility with existing systems. 

The successful completion of this project represents a significant achievement in enhancing the water infrastructure of the Monbulk region, underscoring the necessity of meticulous planning, effective coordination and skilled project management.