Cloncurry Sewage Treatment Plant Upgrade

Curry Project Management provided comprehensive contract management services for the Cloncurry Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) Upgrade. The project, commissioned by Cloncurry Shire Council, involved upgrading and modernising the sewage treatment facility to improve its capacity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Key responsibilities included overseeing the design development, construction management, site services, and the integration of new and existing systems. CPM ensured that the works met the required safety, environmental, and operational standards.

Key areas of responsibility included:

  • Managing the design process, from initial meetings and workshops to the preparation and submission of final “For Construction” documents.
  • Overseeing all construction activities, including the development of WHS and environmental management plans, site establishment, traffic management, and coordination with geotechnical engineers.
  • Supervising the installation of key infrastructure for tertiary treatment, sludge management, and the handling of recycled water.
  • Managing the electrical and control system upgrades, ensuring integration with the existing site and off-site telemetry systems.

Specific Responsibilities Under the Contract
The project management team was responsible for overseeing the entire design development process, including:

  • Coordinating initial project discussions and setting the framework for design.
  • Conducting HAZOP/CHAIR workshops to identify hazards and refine design strategies.
  • Preparing and submitting final design documents for construction, ensuring all items and activities necessary for the project’s success were included.

Procurement, Delivery & Site Management
CPM managed the procurement process by developing a comprehensive Procurement Plan, reviewing council resources, and identifying local supply options for cost-effective and timely project delivery. The plan adhered to DRFA guidelines and prioritized the use of local suppliers. CPM oversaw the tendering process, ensuring tender documentation included all necessary specifications, quality control, and safety standards. During delivery and site management, CPM maintained quality control through regular site visits and inspections, ensuring that materials and processes met project standards. Safety audits, traffic management, and environmental monitoring, particularly in culturally sensitive areas, were integral to site management. CPM also provided consistent progress updates and ensured on-schedule project execution.

Submissions & Compliance
CPM prepared and submitted all necessary documentation for project approval, including design documents, environmental management plans, and WHS protocols. These submissions adhered to local council regulations and industry standards, ensuring all stages of the project met safety and compliance requirements. CPM coordinated closely with stakeholders to align project activities with environmental, operational, and safety guidelines.

Construction Management
The project management team ensured that all construction activities were carried out in compliance with the contract requirements, including:
WHS and Environmental Management:

  • Developing and implementing Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) and Construction Environmental Management Plans to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Managing the establishment of the site, including the creation of a Traffic Management Plan, installation of safety barriers, and ensuring safe access to the site.
  • Supervising all aspects of the construction, including bulk earthworks, concrete foundation works, installation of new inlet works, and demolition of existing structures.
  • Coordinating the restoration of the site to its original condition post-construction, ensuring all temporary facilities were removed and the area was rehabilitated.

Site Services and Infrastructure
The project management team oversaw the installation of site services, including:

  • Managing the installation of potable water systems, valves, and fittings for the inlet works and tertiary facility.
  • Supervising bulk and detailed earthworks, roadworks, and the installation of new inlet works, including screenings conveyance and bypass systems.
  • Overseeing the installation of the DAF system, UV system, and chemical dosing areas, ensuring integration with existing systems and compliance with design specifications.

Electrical and Control Systems
The electrical and control systems were a critical component of the upgrade, with CPM managing:

  • Coordinating the installation of site power supply transformers, main distribution switchboards, and UPS systems.
  • Managing the installation of PLC control systems, SCADA systems, and local control stations, ensuring proper integration with existing site telemetry.
  • Overseeing the upgrade of the site’s communication network and telemetry system, ensuring reliable communication with off-site systems.

Testing, Commissioning, and Documentation
The project management team was responsible for:

  • Managing the Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and process commissioning, ensuring the system met operational performance criteria.
  • Preparing comprehensive operation and maintenance manuals and conducting training for operator and maintenance personnel.
  • Ensuring the submission of accurate as-built drawings and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the upgraded systems.

Recycled Water and Sludge Management
The project management team ensured the effective installation of recycled water systems and sludge management infrastructure, including:

  • Installing recycled water storage tanks and integrating the media filtration system to provide efficient water recycling.
  • Managing the installation of DAF sludge transfer systems, ensuring efficient handling and disposal of sludge.

As-Built Construction Data
CPM ensured that accurate as-built construction records were maintained, documenting all deviations from the original design. These records were compiled using surveys, engineering reports, and photographic evidence and were submitted electronically for approval. This thorough documentation supported final assessments and future maintenance.

Through comprehensive oversight, CPM successfully managed the Cloncurry Sewage Treatment Plant Upgrade, delivering a modern, efficient, and compliant facility that meets the needs of the Cloncurry community.