The QSN 3 Project involved looping the existing 937 km South West Queensland Pipeline (SWQP), thereby increasing capacity on the SWQP from 181 TJ/d to approximately 385 TJ/d.
It seemed from the start that nature was against construction contractor Nacap; the project was hit with cyclones, flooding, dust storms and bushfire.
However, after developing no less than three different plans to counter these challenges, Nacap was able to complete the project in January 2012, nine days before it was scheduled to finish.
Mr Frith said that this was only possible through careful negotiation of the “˜marriage’ between Nacap and project proponent Epic Energy. By establishing a relationship based on respect and constantly maintaining dialogue, both parties were able to find the best solutions for the project.
“The way the challenges were met is what mattered, not the number or the scale,” said Mr Frith.
In addition to successful completion of the project amidst a whirlwind of adversity, Nacap rescued approximately 15,000 animals from the trench, was able to raise over $40,000 for local communities, and developed the hydraulic pig catcher, which won the APIA Safety Award in 2011.
Following the presentation, the YPFers networked over food and drinks, which were sponsored by Nacap.
For more information on the Young Pipeliners Forum or to be involved, contact APIA on (02) 6273 0577.