Laing O’Rourke has completed the Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative (ASMTI) Shoalwater Bay Training Area facilities project, located 80km north of Rockhampton. The upgraded facilities will enable Singapore Armed Forces personnel to conduct unilateral training for up to nine weeks annually.
Appointed as managing contractor in 2018, Laing O’Rourke led the development of the Shoalwater Bay Training Area, including the construction of new facilities and upgrades to current infrastructure, supporting training activities for both the Australian Defence Force and Singapore Armed Forces. Mark Dimmock, managing director at Laing O’Rourke, said the company was proud to have delivered the project, helping the Department of Defence achieve its strategic objectives while creating long-term benefits for the local community.
Laing O’Rourke collaborated with complex domestic and international stakeholder groups, as well as the project manager/contract administrator (PMCA) and client to drive positive outcomes for both the Commonwealth of Australia and the Republic of Singapore, while maintaining a flexible approach in an environmentally sensitive location. A key focus was engaging early with the Darumbal traditional landowners to respect cultural heritage.
A spokesperson from the Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC said, “Throughout our partnership, Laing O’Rourke has consistently demonstrated their commitment to honouring Cultural Protocols and respecting the profound Darumbal connection to country and the preservation of our invaluable cultural heritage. Their dedication to inclusivity and empowerment is truly commendable, as they worked hard to ensure the active participation of Darumbal-owned businesses in this significant project. Laing O’Rourke’s genuine efforts have not only adopted a harmonious relationship but have also set a remarkable example for others to follow.”
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This commitment resulted in 11 per cent Indigenous participation and 7 per cent of total project spend directed to Indigenous businesses, exceeding project targets.
The project also prioritised local procurement, with more than 80 per cent of work packages awarded to regional Queensland contractors and suppliers. A total of 167 work packages were delivered, structured to support small to medium enterprises.
To further engagement, Laing O’Rourke partnered with local universities and schools, assisting student research projects, hosting Indigenous business workshops, and participating in industry events. A collaboration with Central Queensland University also led to five graduates securing employment with the company.
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