Major construction company Thiess has been chosen as Managing Contractor for the $139 million redevelopment of Townsville’s Lavarack Barracks

As Managing Contractor, Thiess will be responsible for the planning, design, construction and commissioning of new and upgraded facilities for the Australian Army’s 3rd Brigade.

Thiess’ success in winning the Department of Defence project will mean an ongoing presence in North Queensland, with the company recently completing the Townsville Army Aviation Works, which comprised the construction of state-of-the-art shelters for 5th Aviation Regiment’s Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters.

On the Lavarack Barracks project, Thiess will again draw upon its proven experience in delivering complex works within an operational environment, ensuring minimal disruption to Base operations without compromising security.

Executive General Manager Qld/NT/Pacific Mr Roger Trundle said the Lavarack project was an important win for Thiess.

"The design and construct nature of the Lavarack contract is ideally suited to Thiess’ size and management capabilities," he said.

"A project of this scope offers Thiess many exciting challenges, while also allowing the company to continue its long tradition and commitment to the development of North Queensland infrastructure."

Predominately comprising the construction of over 1,100 accommodation rooms, the redevelopment also involves:

• Three combined messes;
• Central food preparation facility;
• Communication centre;
• 3 Brigade Administrative Support Battalion Transport Squadron/Support Facilities, including vehicle compound, troop offices, amenities, store rooms, refurbishment of workshops, paint shop and major carpark;
• New facilities for 10 Force Support Battalion;
• New Vehicle Wash Facility;
• Eastern deployment and assembly area;
• Major trunk road; and
• Engineering services and landscaping, including upgrading the existing water supply, electrical and communication services, stormwater drainage, trade waste treatment, sewerage services and road works.

All works will be completed by Defence’s target date of December 2001.

Project Manager Mr Murray Frame said he was pleased Thiess was able to continue its ongoing relationships with both the Department of Defence and the city of Townsville.

"Thiess places great importance on developing and maintaining strong relationships. Not only does the Lavarack contract enable us to again work with Defence, it also allows us to continue our ongoing involvement with the Townsville community," he said.

"Thiess is committed to the communities in which it operates, which fits well with Defence’s policy of maximising opportunities for local consultants, suppliers and subcontractors.

"Our initial strategy will be to hold a number of briefings on the Lavarack Barracks project for locally based companies, which will be organised in consultation with local business groups such as the Townsville Chamber of Commerce and Townsville Enterprise.

"Our ultimate aim, of course, will be to attract maximum local involvement to the project."

Ends.

Released by:
Thiess Contractors Pty Limited
ACN 010 221 486

For further information contact:
Mr Roger Trundle
Executive General Manager Qld/NT/Pacific
Ph: (07) 3368 0200

Ms Fiona Murcott
Communications Manager Qld/NT/Pacific
Ph: (07) 3368 0537