blog

blog http://semf.co.nz/news/ Pelaco Sign Restoration http://semf.co.nz/news/pelaco-sign-restoration/ The historic and heritage listed Pelaco sign at Goodwood Street, Richmond was in urgent need of restoration. SEMF’s role in the restoration project was principal consultant and project manager.
The restoration involved removal and replacement of the original Pelaco sign, including the steel structure and the twelve letters each 4m high.
SEMF’s Principal Structural Engineer, Chris Tattersall, carried out all the engineering design, liaison with Heritage Victoria, obtaining of permits from Heritage Victoria, City of Yarra and the Building Permit. He negotiated with Victorian Heritage Restoration Fund to obtain the grant, called tenders, selected the contractor, oversaw the removal of the old sign, oversaw the detailed design and shop drawings, and the eventual successful re-installation.
Findlay Engineering of Ballarat removed the old sign, detailed the steel and letters for the new sign, and carried out the reinstallation successfully over the weekend of the 25th June 2016. 
<a href="http://semf.co.nz/assets/Case-Studies/Pelaco-Sign-case-study.pdf" target="_blank">Download the case study here. </a> Wed, 06 Jul 2016 11:28:26 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/pelaco-sign-restoration/ Patricks Port Botany Terminal Modernisation http://semf.co.nz/news/patricks-port-botany-terminal-modernisation/ The Port Botany shipping terminal in NSW is now Australia’s largest fully automated container terminal that facilitates the automated transfer of containers to and from trucks by Autostrads™
As well as SEMF being the lead agent for delivery of the control system for all yard infrastructure SEMF played a significant part in the electrical design from HV to ELV.
SEMF Needed to demonstrate safety compliance throughout the system lifecycle. This was achieved by referencing and meeting relevant clauses of safety standards AS 4024, AS 61508 and AS 60261 throughout the assessment, design, implementation and testing phases of the project.
The main challenge was the size and scale of the site required technology such as fibre optic networks to communicate with approximately 100 I/O racks. The system was implemented on an operational brown-field site, reducing accessibility during installation and commissioning. To reduce maintenance and support costs the system was designed to be as centralised which necessitated the use of a single PLC, however significant attention needed to be paid to the processing speed in order to meet the safety response time requirements for each of the safety functional elements of the system. Significant complexity was also introduced by the systems that the PLC system needed to communicate.
This system was delivered to Patrick as a fully validated package. This was achieved by SEMF participating as consultants, designers, developers and test engineers in concert with Patrick’s larger team. This model allowed Patrick to leverage off SEMF’s knowledge of risk assessments and safety in the early requirement setting phases as well as SEMF’s capability to design develop and implement.
<a href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/sydneys-patrick-terminal-goes-automated-with-fewer-staff-but-dancing-robots-20150618-ghqc24.html" target="_blank">Read 'Sydney's Patrick terminal goes automated, with fewer staff but dancing robots' in The Sydney Morning Herald here.</a>
<a href="http://semf.co.nz/assets/Case-Studies/Port-Botany-Terminal.pdf" target="_blank">Download the case study here.</a>
 
Photo credit: Peter Rae Wednesday 17 June 2015. Wed, 08 Jul 2015 14:06:08 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/patricks-port-botany-terminal-modernisation/ SCP Australia Certification http://semf.co.nz/news/scp-australia-certification/ Site Contamination Practitioners Australia (SCP Australia) provides Australia’s first professional certification scheme to recognise practitioners working in the contaminated land industry. SCP Australia certification recognises a practitioner’s ability in assessing and managing the full scope of contaminated site projects by ensuring they have the necessary level of knowledge, expertise and skill. 
The certification scheme, designed specifically for Australia, aims to provide a professional industry standard to contamination industry practitioners and is designed to complement the accredited site contamination auditor system currently operating in Australia. Certification will establish an Australia-wide standard based on demonstrated competencies and quality of performance. On-going certification is subject to adherence to the SCP Australia Code of Ethics and Professional Practice, annual submission of a continuing professional development diary and payment of a yearly registration fee.
Carly Clark, a principal environmental scientist who has been with SEMF for over eleven years, has recently gained certification under SCP Australia and is now a “Certified Practitioner: Site Assessment and Management”. It is intended that all reports related to contaminated land investigations, remediation and validation, submitted for State EPA Directors’ approval or input, must include as a final reviewer a person with certification under SCP Australia. At present, less than 25 contaminated sites practitioners across Australia have gained this certification.
SEMF is proud to congratulate Carly on a well-deserved certification and is keen to apply our expertise to assist clients with any contaminated land aspects. Wed, 24 Jun 2015 14:35:29 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/scp-australia-certification/ PORT OF ECHUCA http://semf.co.nz/news/port-of-echuca/ The port of Echuca on the Murray River is a site of State and National heritage significance. It draws visitors from across Australia and overseas through its status as Australia’s largest inland port and its reputation as a paddle steamer capital. 
SEMF was successful in delivering a $15 million redevelopment of the Port of Echuca with the assistance of Federal, State and Local Government funding. This included a major refurbishment of the heritage wharf and redevelopment of the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. The Port of Echuca’s visitor experience is vastly improved from this major investment and provides the visitor with a compelling reason to visit Echuca.
The Discovery Centre plays a key role as a platform for visitors to explore and appreciate the broader Port site. The building has been designed to reinforce interpretation themes through spatial planning, built form, materiality and detail, a place to reveal the Port’s rich collection of stories.
The scale of the building carefully responds to the adjacent structure, drawing on their modest roof forms and timber cladding to integrate the Centre into the streetscape. The roof is shaped to sit the building comfortable within its context, its folded form a key component of the architectural language. Entry points are marked by Shady verandas and veiled by screens of recycled wharf timbers that evoke images of light filtering through the River Red Gums to reveal a strong connection with the land. 
Within the centre, the roof is expressed as an expansive canopy over the entry foyer, the highlight glazing on each end illuminating the space and assisting the timber ceiling to float gently above. 
"The Port of Echuca’s visitor experience is vastly improved and provides the visitor with a compelling reason to visit Echuca."
Specialist lighting is used for interpretive displays to enhance the visual aspects. The building services (Mechanical and Electrical) have been designed to provide visitors with comfortable and visually pleasing spaces whilst meeting and exceeding the requirements of the ‘Energy Provisions’ of the BCA.
Spaces overlap, open and contract, providing an abstract canvas for a myriad of stories to unfold, merging with each other to create a vivid sensory experience. 
SEMF provided key services in the Electrical, Communication, Mechanical, Water and Stormwater, gas, sewage, structural and geotechnical services.
Information was retrieved from JAWS architects and the Port of Echuca discovery centre. Wed, 07 Jan 2015 14:00:22 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/port-of-echuca/ GRAINCORP OILSEED PROCESSING FACILITY http://semf.co.nz/news/graincorp-oilseed-processing-facility/ Construction of new developments and making changes to existing operations can be a complicated process, potentially prone to variation and delays. Graincorp Oilseeds was mindful of this when planning to invest $35 million at its existing oilseed processing facility at Numurkah, Victoria. 
SEMF was employed for its knowledge of the Numurkah and other existing Graincorp operations within Australia, and the ability of its multidisciplinary team to co-ordinate the wide range of expertise from concept through design and construction. 
The Graincorp Oilseed development represents a significant investment in the regional area of Numurkah, as it will create an additional nine roles at the site and secure the future of the operation. The installation of the new industry best practice vegetable oil refining process will allow the plant to take the existing oil seed processing one stage further, by expanding the range of edible oils handled and refined there, with fast implementation of the project being vital to Graincorp maximising its market share. 
Graincorp sought to ensure adequate planning and implementation of the development (design, construction and commissioning) program, and minimise variation and delays, through the careful selection of the Project Management Team: 
<ul><li>A Project Manager in an overview role; </li>
<li>SEMF for it’s multidisciplinary (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, and Building Engineering, Environmental, and Drafting) capabilities; and </li>
<li>Graincorp Project Team for design, operational, financial decisions and approvals. </li>
</ul>This structure worked effectively through the adoption of a clearly defined communication and approval system which enabled early identification of potential issues, and challenges to be worked through to achieve an optimal outcome and solutions to be implemented in a timely manner.
An additional project benefit was that both the Project Manager and SEMF’s co-ordinator had considerable prior knowledge of the Graincorp’s existing sites, their operational and environmental management measures and issues.
SEMF’s multidisciplinary approach and wholistic knowledge of the development was beneficial for this project through the:
<ul><li>Provision of a range of skills and expertise under one SEMF project manager (a one stop shop);</li>
<li>Reduction of the need for and expense of handover; </li>
<li>Ease of design review across skill sets and implementation of subsequent variations; </li>
<li>Greater wholistic knowledge of a project enabling early identification of potential issues;</li>
<li>Subsequent minimisation of future unforeseen problems and costs;</li>
<li>Improved control of confidentiality for market advantage in the early planning stages; and</li>
<li>Use of an agreed system for internal and external communications.</li>
</ul>SEMF worked closely with Graincorp and a global equipment supplier to select refining technology and associated infrastructure that would ensure optimal physical refining capabilities, as well as best practice energy, water, fugitive odour and noise management. 
<ul><li>An important aspect of this successful project was the identification of issues and areas of concern and co-ordination of preparatory and baseline investigations which:</li>
<li>Assessed potential environmental impacts and allowed for measurement of the effectiveness of proposed management measures; </li>
<li>Allowed the engineering design to consider environmental, operational and site layout and functionality constraint issues up front, and to then feed directly into the various approval processes;</li>
<li>Were beneficial in the identification and reduction of unknowns; and</li>
<li>Minimised unforeseen future costs. </li>
</ul>With the findings of these baseline investigations in hand, Graincorp was able to commit to the implementation of mitigation measures prior to commencing the community consultation and approvals process (e.g. environmental, planning, building, and dangerous goods). This knowledge and foresight provided greater confidence of the project proceeding smoothly and in a timely manner.
The Graincorp development has progressed through the design and approval phase (being one of the first projects to use the Victorian Environment Protection Authority’s new Environmental Fast Track Works Approval Process) and SEMF is continuing its involvement in the construction and commissioning phase. Wed, 07 Jan 2015 13:53:47 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/graincorp-oilseed-processing-facility/ ONE SEMF http://semf.co.nz/news/one-semf/ Our focus in collaborating across the whole SEMF, working as ONE team to deliver projects for our clients is proving a right direction/framework for us to continue progressing our vision.
The ONE SEMF framework outlines how:
<ul><li>We deliver total solutions to our clients expectations</li>
<li>We work as one organisation across our geographic boundaries</li>
<li>Our risk management systems support our staff to project manage and deliver the works</li>
</ul>In short, how we work together as ONE team to deliver projects for our clients. This is an exciting time as we have the opportunity to expand on our success to date, and are confident that our staff and clients will see the benefits of this journey. Wed, 07 Jan 2015 13:30:40 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/one-semf/ NEW STAFF http://semf.co.nz/news/new-staff/ Thierry Melis – Principal Hydraulics Engineer
I have recently re-joined SEMF Sydney as Principal Hydraulics Engineer after stints with ARUP and AECOM in their Sydney offices. I am a hydraulic services engineer from a trade background; I have designed a wide variety of projects over the years in a wide variety of sectors. My speciality areas are health, laboratory and commercial buildings. I have also been involved with the design of a number of 5 and 6-star Greenstar commercial buildings in Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane. In my spare time I enjoy skiing, surfing, horse riding and spending time with my family.
Doug Hall – Project Administrator
I am a services project manager at SEMF. I have held previous positions with PSG Electrical as a construction project manager and Russell-Smith as a branch manager, where I have worked on a range of large commercial construction projects through-out Tasmania. When I’m not studying, I like to spend my spare time playing/writing music and racing slot cars. My partner and I also enjoy playing with our two dogs and fine dining. When I can find time I enjoy cycling and camping.
Chris Morrison – Principal Water Engineer
I am a Principal Water Engineer with 24 years’ experience having worked solely in the Water Industry. I have previously worked at GHD (3 years), MWH (15 years) and Fisher Stewart (6 years). I also spent 5 years living and working in Northern California on large water treatment projects. I am married with two children and enjoy all sports with a particular passion for baseball. 
Nyssa Muir – Senior Electrical Engineer
I am an electrical engineer with 9 years’ experience in the power generation &amp; transmission industry. I have recently come from the Hydro where I worked on large alternators, PLC control systems, electrical protection and auxiliary systems. I grew up in Mooloolah (QLD) and now live in Lindisfarne with my boyfriend. We enjoy bushwalking, mountain biking, travelling, gardening and taking our two Labradoodles to the beach.
Shihan Fernando – Senior Mechanical Engineer
I am a senior mechanical services engineer with 12 years’ experience in HVAC systems. I have previously worked at SPA, LEHR and AECOM/Bassett and worked on wide range of projects across a variety of sectors (i.e. health, aged care, educational and commercial, etc) on both large and small scale projects. I enjoy being outdoors and keeping active with my family in my spare time. Films and movies are generally a priority when I am relaxing at home. I love to travel and enjoy a little amateur photography. 
Robert Newman – Graduate Electrical Engineer
I am recent graduate engineering student who completed his major in Mechatronics/Robotics &amp; sub-major in Electrical Engineering in 2012. Apart from my studies I have experienced in many industrial projects with a contractor named Fredon Industries Pty Ltd as an intern and fulltime engineer. Such projects that I participated in are the new Sydney University Science Building -Charles Perkins Centre, Moorebank Relocation Unit for the Defence and SICEEP – Darling Harbour. Wed, 07 Jan 2015 13:00:24 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/new-staff/ Canterbury earthquakes http://semf.co.nz/news/canterbury-earthquakes/ SEMF has joined with Taylors and Quinn Property Group provide an integrated solution to respond to the rebuilding of multi-unit residential developments
Following the Canterbury earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 Christchurch has been in a period of recovery. The physical and psychological damage caused has made a significant mark on the City and the surrounds. SEMF are pleased to join Taylors in assisting in the rebuilding of the City.
Forming part of a team working for a major insurance provider, SEMF is carrying out an investigation and assessment of residential properties which have been damaged beyond the cap for direct Government funding for repairs. The properties on which our team is currently working include the multi-unit multi-insured, which are best described as groups of multiple dwellings which are each insured under different providers. Our role in the project is to assess the damage to determine if each dwelling is best classed as a repair or a rebuild, following which we will lead a process of approvals to deliver an appropriate solution to restore the residents’ home to pre-earthquake condition.
<img class="center" src="http://semf.co.nz/assets/Uploads/_resampled/resizedimage450600-IMG1753_2.jpg" alt="Canterbury earthquakes" width="450" height="600" title=""/>
Although the recovery appears slow, the resilience of the people here is apparent and encouraging. The Government, via the Earthquake Commission (EQC), has carried out large-scale testing and assessment throughout the City in a bid to identify appropriate areas to build and what structural designs should be used in each area. Although some areas through the City have been classed as ‘’red zone’’ which are effectively no-build zones, the Government has leapt at the opportunity to create a more liveable City with a plan for linearly connecting green open space. This linear open space will build on the already characteristic greenery of the City, typified by the iconic area of Hagley Park which is an area of approximately 165 hectares of public open space ‘’reserved forever as a public park, and shall be open for the recreation and enjoyment of the public’’.
SEMF and Taylors Development Strategists (TDS) have established a permanent office in Christchurch and each have permanent staff on location. Our involvement in Christchurch to date has provided extremely exciting and rewarding project opportunities. SEMF along with TDS values highly the opportunity to contribute to the rebuild of Christchurch and assisting to restore the lives of its residents. Mon, 01 Dec 2014 13:27:20 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/canterbury-earthquakes/ Big Picture Stories http://semf.co.nz/news/big-picture-stories/ <div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Allan Waitzer</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">SEMF is enthusiastic in its support for the Take a Look at the Big Picture initiative. Since our establishment in Hobart over 30 years ago SEMF has undertaken numerous projects within the built environment for many industries in Tasmania, including the ‘Big Picture’ industries. We have assisted with improving operational efficiency and enabled long-term viability and good environmental performance.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">SEMF has grown with these local industries with offices in Hobart, Launceston, Melbourne and Sydney. We have maintained a strong presence and head office in Tasmania because our staff like to live here, and we have confidence in the underlying strength of the Tasmanian business sector.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Our people work on multi-disciplinary engineering projects throughout Australia, many of which rely on the high levels of experience and skills of our Tasmania-based specialists, who have been with us for many years. Example of iconic projects that our Tasmanian team have been involved with include mine approvals in Queensland, the moving roof at Etihad Stadium in Victoria, Gold ore stackers in Western Australia, Nestle Purine pet food factory in NSW, iron ore and manganese ship loader in NT and the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment in Tasmania. We also have a strong commitment to UTAS through the provision of engineering and environmental scholarships to support the development of the next generation of skilled professionals within Tasmania. The scholarships have typically extended to graduate employment within Tasmania, thereby retaining skills and young people within the State.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Not only do we support existing Tasmanian industry, which we consider vital to Tasmania’s long-term viability, we also work closely with new, small and large emerging industries for everything from engineering feasibility studies and environmental approvals, through to design, procurement, project management and commissioning.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We are also actively involved in community consultation to assist in community understanding and acceptance of new developments and for Tasmania’s existing ‘Big Picture’ and other industries. SEMF is committed to supporting Tasmanian industry, retaining strong engineering and environmental specialty skills in Tasmania and assisting with the positive dynamic momentum initiated by Take a Look at the Big Picture.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">- See more at: http://bigpicturetas.com.au/allan-waitzer/#sthash.suAOnV3h.dpuAllan Waitzer</div>
SEMF is enthusiastic in its support for the Take a Look at the Big Picture initiative. Since our establishment in Hobart over 30 years ago SEMF has undertaken numerous projects within the built environment for many industries in Tasmania, including the ‘Big Picture’ industries. We have assisted with improving operational efficiency and enabled long-term viability and good environmental performance.
SEMF has grown with these local industries with offices in Hobart, Launceston, Melbourne and Sydney. We have maintained a strong presence and head office in Tasmania because our staff like to live here, and we have confidence in the underlying strength of the Tasmanian business sector.
Our people work on multi-disciplinary engineering projects throughout Australia, many of which rely on the high levels of experience and skills of our Tasmania-based specialists, who have been with us for many years. Example of iconic projects that our Tasmanian team have been involved with include mine approvals in Queensland, the moving roof at Etihad Stadium in Victoria, Gold ore stackers in Western Australia, Nestle Purine pet food factory in NSW, iron ore and manganese ship loader in NT and the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment in Tasmania. We also have a strong commitment to UTAS through the provision of engineering and environmental scholarships to support the development of the next generation of skilled professionals within Tasmania. The scholarships have typically extended to graduate employment within Tasmania, thereby retaining skills and young people within the State.
Not only do we support existing Tasmanian industry, which we consider vital to Tasmania’s long-term viability, we also work closely with new, small and large emerging industries for everything from engineering feasibility studies and environmental approvals, through to design, procurement, project management and commissioning.
We are also actively involved in community consultation to assist in community understanding and acceptance of new developments and for Tasmania’s existing ‘Big Picture’ and other industries. SEMF is committed to supporting Tasmanian industry, retaining strong engineering and environmental specialty skills in Tasmania and assisting with the positive dynamic momentum initiated by Take a Look at the Big Picture.
<a class="absara" href="http://bigpicturetas.com.au/allan-waitzer/" target="_blank">Read the story on Big Pictures Tasmania.</a> Mon, 25 Aug 2014 16:18:30 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/big-picture-stories/ Tasmanian Employers of Choice - SEMF http://semf.co.nz/news/tasmanian-employers-of-choice-semf/ <iframe src="http://semf.co.nz//www.youtube.com/embed/zd7GFqSv8i4" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0">&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt; &amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;.&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</iframe>
The best part of my working week is when I fly home to Tasmania!' 
John explains how SEMF staff undertake exciting engineering work across the country while joying the benefits of Tasmania's enviable lifestyle. John lives near the city allowing him to walk to work and walk along the beach at the end of the day Mon, 25 Aug 2014 14:18:30 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/tasmanian-employers-of-choice-semf/ SEMF PROVIDE HYDRAULIC & FIRE SERVICES DESIGN FOR CSL’S NEW PRIVIGEN FACILITY http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-provide-hydraulic-and-fire-services-design-for-csl-s-new-privigen-facility/ The proposed facility is built to provide additional production capacity for CSL‘s Privigen product, which is currently manufactured at the Bern facility in Switzerland.
The facility is designed with an initial capacity of 3.7ML PEQ with the ability to increase the capacity to 7.4ML PEQ with minimal investment and disruption to operation.
The proposed facility is built as an extension to the east side of the existing Process Building as an independent building, and the existing BMW Fractionation plant to operate independently without shutdown dependencies. The proposed facility is designed strictly in accordance with the Bern model and consists of three floor levels.
SEMF is responsible for the full fire and hydraulic services design including wet, dry fire protection and detection system, sanitary and plumbing system, rainwater collection and reticulation, stormwater syphonic system, and process waste.
The project also involved full design of external fire and hydraulic services infrastructure upgrade, including ring main diversion for fire sprinkler, hydrant, natural gas, domestic cold water, process water, and sewer system.
 The facility is designed such that it could be extended towards the eastern side of the site. All external infrastructures have been designed to cater for the future requirements. Tue, 20 Aug 2013 17:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-provide-hydraulic-and-fire-services-design-for-csl-s-new-privigen-facility/ DANGEROUS GOODS AUDITS http://semf.co.nz/news/dangerous-goods-audits/ Storage and handling of dangerous goods is an important issue for industry. 
Many industries do not have sufficient time, skills or resources to efficiently manage storage and handling of dangerous goods and are therefore not fully aware of the associated legal requirements.
SEMF’s Carly Harington has been carrying out Dangerous Goods Audits (AS1940 – Hydrocarbons, and others) at a number of mining and commercial / industrial facilities in Australia, including at a number of remote areas and overseas. These audits are extremely detailed and comprehensive to comply with the requirements of the relevant Australian Standard on a clause-by-clause basis. SEMF often supplement the audit with the expertise of SEMF engineering staff, who provide assessments of ancillary equipment, visual integrity and suitability.
The audits provide a detailed report which includes compliance assessment, recommendations and a prioritised action list for the client to use as a ready-reference to facilitate compliance.
To ensure projects are delivered to provide the best possible results for our Clients we take great pride in understanding Clients needs and priorities. 
Audits are tailored to suit the project requirements on an individual basis and in some cases information collection has been through secondment. Tue, 20 Aug 2013 16:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/dangerous-goods-audits/ NSW FOOD & BEVERAGE TEAM EXPANDS http://semf.co.nz/news/nsw-food-and-beverage-team-expands/ The NSW food and beverage team recently expanded with the addition of two process engineers to assist in covering the growing workload as the team continues to successfully win tenders.
The food &amp; beverage team is part of the Industrial &amp; Process division of SEMF and services the clients in the Dairy, Brewery, Carbonated and Non-carbonated Beverage, Confectionery, FMCG, Frozen, Petcare and Pharmaceutical Industries.
The SEMF Food and Beverage team recently visited the Auspack trade show, seeing many new and familiar faces. The trade show presented an excellent opportunity to network and see some demonstrations as part of our latest FMCG project, providing design solutions for the installation of new high speed packaging lines in various locations.
The Food &amp; Beverage team is preparing for another bumper year as they help SEMF clients optimize their manufacturing process to improve productivity. Productivity improvements has been flagged by the Prime Minister’s Taskforce on Manufacturing as the top priority for the industry in Australia if manufacturing is to survive and surpass pre GFC levels.
For more details contact Ray Sassine – <a href="mailto:ray.sassine@semf.com.au">ray.sassine@semf.com.au</a> Tue, 20 Aug 2013 14:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/nsw-food-and-beverage-team-expands/ A NEW LOOK FOR DOMINIC COLLEGE http://semf.co.nz/news/a-new-look-for-dominic-college/ Dominic College located at Tolosa St, Glenorchy has redeveloping a range of old buildings and built brand new buildings to incorporate new state of the art facilities.
A new design centre was built at the former gymnasium. This development involved Woodwork and Metalwork Workshops, Graphic Design Facilities and a new Horticulture Shed. The science GLA’s and labs were also refurbished and additional student learning areas and new science labs were added. A brand new Multi Purpose Centre was also built housing a gymnasium, cardio/weights room, kitchen, Sports Science rooms, and a teaching area dedicated to LOTE.
SEMF were responsible for the following engineering services:
<ul><li>Electrical</li>
<li>Hydraulic</li>
<li>Mechanical</li>
<li>Fire Protection</li>
<li>Civil</li>
<li>Structural </li>
</ul> Tue, 20 Aug 2013 13:30:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/a-new-look-for-dominic-college/ DRUMMOND ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2012 http://semf.co.nz/news/drummond-achievement-award-2012/ It was with great pleasure that the SEMF Board awarded the Drummond Achievement award for 2012 to Bob Dunbabin, Principal Structural Engineer based at SEMF, Hobart.
The Drummond Achievement Award is presented annually to an SEMF employee for outstanding achievement against 2 criteria (Commercial Awareness plus one of; Technical Ability, Project Management &amp; Environment/Community Awareness). All nominations were of a very high calibre and showed great depth of commitment and expertise across all criteria. The Board would personally thank and congratulate all those nominees for their enthusiasm and achievements throughout 2012.
In summary, Bob’s outstanding achievements included;
<ul><li>High revenue generation, utilisation, and efficiency</li>
<li>Strong customer satisfaction</li>
<li>Strong project management &amp; profitability of a broad range of projects</li>
<li>Mentoring to a number of junior/graduate structural engineers</li>
<li>Encouraging the use of 3D modelling &amp; innovation on complex projects</li>
<li>Working across multiple offices and projects, often spending significant time away from home base</li>
</ul>The award presentation was held on Bryan Drummonds yacht (Gypsy Rover) berthed on the southern end of Constitution dock (in Hobart) where staff members attended to join in celebrating Bob’s success. Tue, 20 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/drummond-achievement-award-2012/ SEMF DELIVER NEW JUMBO LAMINATING LINE http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-deliver-new-jumbo-laminating-line/ SEMF have completed the installation of two new production lines for the manufacture and processing of laminated glass and mirror products at Viridian Glass’ Dandenong site.
Viridian is Australia’s number one glass provider with a long history of glass making. The new Jumbo laminating line is capable of production the largest laminated sheets of glass in Australia.
After completing an initial cost feasibility study for a number of options, SEMF was given approval to proceed with the preferred option in late 2011. SEMF’s multidisciplinary team were engaged to assist with the delivery of the multifaceted project utilising their capabilities in Civil, Structural, Electrical and Environmental Engineering and Project Management.
The project, undertaken and completed in an ongoing plant operating environment, took 15 months to complete and involved a wide range of tasks including;
<ul><li>Removal and demolition of 3 existing production lines and associated building infrastructure</li>
<li>Refurbishment of an existing raw materials shed (1460m²) to be used for glass storage</li>
<li>Modification to an existing precast wall and civil construction of a pit to host a new 60T autoclave</li>
<li>Upgrade of mechanical services to meet the demands of the new autoclave, including installation of a new cooling tower and air receiver</li>
<li>Installation of the new 110m long laminating line which can handle glass sizes up to 3210 x 6000mm</li>
<li>Installation of a new 55m long repack and splitting line </li>
<li>Installation of a new 2000kVA transformer, HV cabling and main supply MCC</li>
<li>Installation of a new two level whiteroom, which is temperature and humidity controlled for product storage</li>
<li>Upgrade of an existing coolroom to increase storage capacity</li>
</ul> Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-deliver-new-jumbo-laminating-line/ TECHNICAL STUDY TOUR OF EUROPEAN AQUACULTURE RESEARCH FACILITIES http://semf.co.nz/news/technical-study-tour-of-european-aquaculture-research-facilities/ SEMF has been appointed Principal Design Consultant for the proposed new Experimental Aquaculture Facility to be built by the University of Tasmania, south of Hobart.
The modern facility will provide new specialist research capabilities to support the growth and sustainability of aquaculture in Tasmania. The new facility will deliver practical solutions for the commercial and environmental sustainability of aquaculture in Australia, and will feature climate research capabilities for the seafood sector.
To facilitate the understanding of world’s best practice in aquaculture research facilities, key SEMF project staff and UTas staff attended a technical tour of similar facilities in Norway and Denmark in May 2013.
The objectives of the study tour were to:
<ul><li>Understand how established facilities operate, to ensure functional and practical design layouts and solutions;</li>
<li>Gauge quality and build ability of existing facilities;</li>
<li>Learn from others, on what has worked well, what they have needed to improve, or are proposing to improve, and what would have been done differently if they were to start again;</li>
<li>Develop further knowledge on current technical requirements, equipment suppliers, and Recirculation systems.</li>
</ul>The technical tour provided a range of invaluable benefits to the participants that will assist with the delivery of the Experimental Aquaculture Facility. These benefits included:
<ul><li>Exposure to various facility layouts and acquisition of knowledge of improvements that could be made to those layouts;</li>
<li>Appreciation of the various levels of construction quality achievable; from the low to the high end of the spectrum;</li>
<li>Appreciation of different methods of tank installation; i.e. in-ground and above-ground methods.</li>
<li>Insight into what has worked well, and what has not, at the various facilities; and</li>
<li>Establishment of relationships with representatives at the various research facilities and suppliers visited. Many of whom will be available to provide follow up advice.</li>
</ul> Tue, 20 Aug 2013 11:00:00 +1000 http://semf.co.nz/news/technical-study-tour-of-european-aquaculture-research-facilities/ SEMF serves up state-of-the-art commercial kitchen for the Royal Hobart Hospital http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-serves-up-state-of-the-art-commercial-kitchen-for-the-royal-hobart-hospital/ <blockquote>
The Royal Hobart Hospital is Tasmania’s premier public healthcare facility and the primary teaching hospital for the University of Tasmania’s Faculty of Health Sciences. The hospital is also home to a bustling food production centre, dishing up over one million meals per year to hospital residents along with sites such as Oakdale Lodge, Flagstaff Gully Childcare, Queen Victoria Home and the Wilfred Lopes Centre. However, outdated equipment and old infrastructure was limiting the kitchen’s production capacity.
The Royal Hobart Hospital engaged SEMF to revamp the existing facilities and capitalise on the kitchen’s potential. Led by Michael Barber and Klaus Stange, SEMF managed the design, documentation and contract administration for various elements of the site, from hydraulic, gas and fire, to structural and civil. The firm also designed and installed new freezers, water heating and cooling systems, CCTV and back-up power facilities and increased energy efficiency by conducting a high voltage systems upgrade.
The design team also dramatically improved the kitchen’s air quality, despite challenges such as tight space restriction, air pollutants and strict ventilation requirements. 
</blockquote> Fri, 26 Oct 2012 23:30:00 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-serves-up-state-of-the-art-commercial-kitchen-for-the-royal-hobart-hospital/ SEMF taps into new talent at Engineering Careers Expo http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-taps-into-new-talent-at-engineering-careers-expo/ <blockquote>
SEMF forged important connections with a new generation of engineering and science talent at the Engineering Careers Expo in Melbourne.
Held in March each year at the Docklands’ Etihad Stadium, the Engineering Careers Expo fosters conversation and exchange between aspiring engineers and industry leaders. As one of 84 participating exhibitors, SEMF made the most of this opportunity, reaching out to attendees and answering questions about the challenges of life as an engineer. The day also included The day included presentation sessions on training, development and potential career paths, hosted by Engineering Australia along with an interactive workshop for high school students, sponsored by Swinburne University.
Attended by 80000 people, the event sparked highly productive conversations between SEMF and aspiring engineers and created a new awareness of the firm’s markets, projects and opportunities. SEMF also gained insights into the skills and interests of potential new recruits – and if this round of up-and-coming engineering talent is anything to go by, the future looks bright.
</blockquote> Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:18:30 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/semf-taps-into-new-talent-at-engineering-careers-expo/ SITE REMEDIATION SUCCESS FOR SEMF http://semf.co.nz/news/site-remediation-success-for-semf/ SEMF’s involvement in the Austins Ferry Timber Yard project highlights an ongoing commitment to site remediation best practice.
SEMF is leading the charge in the site remediation arena through its work on the Austins Ferry Timber Yard in Hobart. The health risks sparked by contaminated soil have created new urgency around the site remediation process and intensified the need for precise execution of remediation projects.
SEMF provided project management services as well as technical and monitoring expertise for the remediation of 20 hectare timber yard, in the historic Hobart suburb of Austins Ferry. This process saw SEMF locate and dispose all contaminated soil and facilitate rezoning of the land from industrial to residential, moves that successfully eliminated human health and environmental risk.
SEMF also conducted a site-wide subsurface investigation to accurately map contaminated zones and refine estimates for decontamination. Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:18:30 +1100 http://semf.co.nz/news/site-remediation-success-for-semf/