One of the highlights of any Story Bridge build is the visit from HDR’s Nelson Ganhao, who shares his passion for bridge structures and knowledge of the Story Bridge in his lunch and learn session. Armed with a slide deck containing photos of the original bridge construction – let’s just say there are a few unsafe work practices on display – Nelson’s history lesson captured the imagination of teams Merle and Else, providing a welcome break in the day’s tender activities.
Nelson was also on the design team who created our Story Bridge, turning the iconic Brisbane structure into the centrepiece of our program.
But the focus of today was the development of the tenders ahead of tomorrow’s deadline and presentations. We caught up with the teams to find out how they were getting on.
Team Else – Rahde
Are you confident?
We will be, we’re getting our heads around the project and the requirements, and when we have, we will be confident and good to go.
What is the biggest challenge as part of the tender?
The construction methodology. It is a technical build; visualising the structure and calculating the props and lifts are key challenges for us to overcome.
What time do you think you will finish today?
We are not sure; we will put the hours in to get the job done. There is a lot to do, but we are up for the challenge.
What do you think the client wants to see from your tender?
Safety. We are working at height, and with crane lifts and traffic to manage, we, therefore, have to minimise every risk and ensure the safety of our team. We are also focused on the site’s other users; CTC is busy with lots of training being undertaken around our site, and we want our project to be good neighbours.
What sets team Else apart from team Merle?
We are going to satisfy the criteria to a high standard and are determined to do well.
Are you enjoying Constructionarium Australia so far?
It is excellent; I wish Constructionarium could have been part of my university studies. I have learnt so much about the industry in just two days.
Team Merle – Romana
Are you confident?
Yes, we are oozing confidence. We have a good team and a variety of experiences, and that should mean we do well.
What is the biggest challenge as part of the tender?
The construction methodology. We have to ensure that we have covered every aspect of the client’s requirements and give them confidence that we can deliver on our promises.
What time do you think you will finish today?
It’s going to be late, and we might need some moral support to see us through to completion.
What do you think the client wants to see from your tender?
I think they want to see a technically sound build that has a strong focus on safety.
What sets team Else apart from team Merle?
We are ruthless, were going to power through thanks to the diverse team, variety of experience, and knowledge.
Are you enjoying Constructionarium Australia so far?
Definitely. It has been fantastic to have the chance to network and build relationships with people from outside of my organisation. It’s a great opportunity to meet and work with a variety of people and to enjoy the program.
So as we curl up on the sofa this evening ready to catch up on some Ted Lasso or our favourite reality show, spare a thought for our cohort who are putting together the final touches to their tender for tomorrow’s session. Who will be the winner of the contract to build the McIlwain Story Bridge? Well, that will be decided tomorrow, but no matter the outcome, in the long run, we’ve got a sneaky suspicion that they all will be.
