Dedicated to looking beyond the scope, Brefni delivers sustainable civil infrastructure across multiple sectors in the Australian construction industry. Tom Brady, Executive Chairman, provides a deep dive into the company’s 30-year history and plans for an innovative future.
THE SMARTER, SHARPER SOLUTION
With the civil engineering industry in New South Wales (NSW) experiencing a dynamic and transformative period, significant investments in infrastructure and a strong focus on sustainability are becoming more prevalent as the sector is actively poised for substantial growth.
Leading the way in this exciting new chapter is Brefni, an Australia-based specialist infrastructure civil engineering company with nearly three decades of experience in the rail, civil, power, industrial, renewables, and remediation sectors.
“We provide comprehensive project management services from planning to execution and are renowned for delivering smarter, sharper, and sustainable solutions tailored to client’s needs,” introduces Tom Brady, Executive Chairman.
Operating along the East Coast of Australia, Regional NSW, and Queensland, safety, systems, and innovation are at the core of the company’s philosophy.
With key customers including government agencies, the private sector, utility companies, and the community in which its employees live and work, Brefni provides a wide range of services to infrastructure sectors and an extensive fleet of specialised equipment for hire to support various civil construction projects.
Diverse project opportunities, cutting-edge technology, career growth prospects, a collaborative work environment, and competitive salaries combine to present NSW as a thrilling and ever-changing place for civil engineers.
“We are currently undergoing an infrastructure boom, driven by both public and private sector investments,” insights Brady.
“While major projects such as the Sydney Metro, WestConnex, and other various regional transport upgrades are ongoing, there is an additional pipeline of projects in the renewables and transmission space. These not only enhance connectivity and accessibility but also create numerous job opportunities.”
On top of this, the construction industry is at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technology. The use of building information modelling (BIM), drones, and advanced simulation software is becoming increasingly common. Such technologies enhance project efficiency, accuracy, and safety, making the work environment more dynamic and innovative.
“As the industry continues to evolve, Brefni and our people will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the state’s infrastructure and contribute to its sustainable development,” states Brady.
LOOKING BEYOND THE SCOPE
Having begun his career in the late 1980s in a UK-based property development company, Brady was inspired by his friends in engineering to take the plunge and move to Australia, where he quickly discovered his enduring passion for the industry.
Brefni was established shortly thereafter, and in the lead-up to the 2000 Olympic Games, there was a surge in infrastructure projects across Sydney, leading to the company quickly expanding from 10-15 employees to approximately 80.
“Through my experiences, I have learned there is no one-size-fits-all system for success in construction. Individuals with diverse industry backgrounds bring valuable expertise and innovative ideas that can be applied across various projects,” details Brady.
Today, after years of hard work and continuous dedication, Brefni boasts a well-established client base in both the private and public sectors. The team proudly delivers complex civil construction infrastructure projects, bringing both people and ideas to each endeavour.
As such, the company has come to develop a reputation for dissecting client needs to deliver smarter, sharper solutions, alongside making a promise to look beyond the scope.
“By looking beyond the scope, we cultivate lasting relationships with our clients, collaborating to find innovative solutions and deliver projects through thought leadership. We believe their success is our success,” expands Brady.
Early contractor involvement is also a key factor for Brefni, as the company views itself as a whole-of-business partner, not just a contractor of choice.
Brady explains that ‘smarter’ means employees and partners set the company apart. It invests in people, skills, and knowledge to develop a passionate workforce drawn from all parts of society. The company is at its best when it shares ideas, builds connections, and works as a team.
By being ‘sharper’, Brefni creates value for its customers and drives continuous improvement.
“We’re innovative, thoughtful, and agile, continuously challenging our ways of working to improve health and safety and productivity. We challenge ourselves to always have a positive impact, find solutions, and stand up and be counted when it matters,” asserts Brady.
“Brefni has the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects that have a tangible impact on communities. This diversity not only keeps the work interesting but also allows us to develop a broad skill set with our people and supply chain”
Tom Brady, Executive Chairman, Brefni
INDUSTRY-DEFINING PROJECTS
Currently, Brefni is undertaking a variety of projects throughout Australia to further its already diverse portfolio.
These include the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Gunsynd Solar Farm, St. James Station maintenance shaft, Stockton Beach seawall, and Sydney Metro stations, including Central, Artarmon, and Sydenham.
Specifically, the company is working alongside Syndey Trains and its valued supply partners to extend the longevity of the 92-year-old Sydney Harbour Bridge.
“We are proud to be part of a great team that is upgrading the superstructure by replacing the transom top bridge with a new ultra high-performance fibre reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) deck to help ensure its longevity for future decades,” explains Brady.
This major project has seen considerable innovation throughout, with UHPFRC being used for the first time in Australia alongside the introduction of a training facility at a Sydney Trains yard in Chullora for practice and testing.
Additionally, Brefni was tasked with constructing a new access shaft adjacent to the existing one at St. James Station in Sydney in order to permit safe access to the sewer system, which was failing and resulting in non-operation amenities at the station.
“This was a complex heritage infrastructure project in one of Sydney’s busiest locations in Hyde Park. We were thrilled to win a Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) NSW 2024 Earth Award for this project,” details Brady.
Alongside these industry-defining projects, the company is outlining its 10-year goal to become a premium medium-sized civil contractor in NSW – a strategic vision that underscores its commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth within the civil business sector.
The key objectives of this plan also include cutting-edge technology, community engagement, employee development, and strategic partnerships.
“Brefni’s 10-year goal is not just about growth; it’s about building a sustainable business. With a clear vision and a dedicated team, we are poised to become a name synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation in the civil construction sector,” says Brady.
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
As Brefni looks towards the future, it is highlighting many key aspects that will be crucial to its ongoing success. One such aspect is sustainability and an increased focus on the civil engineering sector.
With a growing emphasis on developing green infrastructure and incorporating sustainable practices into project planning and execution, the use of renewable energy sources, sustainable materials, and innovative construction technologies is prevalent.
“The push towards sustainability is not only beneficial for the environment but also positions NSW as a leader in green engineering solutions,” insights Brady.
Equally as important to the company is maintaining its strong supply chain operations and relationships.
“In today’s competitive business environment, the success of our operations hinges significantly on the strength of our relationships with suppliers and partners. These are crucial for ensuring efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering innovation.”
Brefni is further building and securing these partnerships through enhanced efficiency and reliability, cost reduction and value creation, risk mitigation, innovative and competitive advantages, and building trust and collaboration.
Ultimately, these relationships pose a multitude of benefits. By investing in strong, collaborative partnerships, the company builds a resilient and competitive supply chain that supports long-term business success.
Another aspect that is highly important to the civil engineering industry is the current challenge of onerous contracts, where the costs of fulfilling a contract exceed the benefits received.
The company, along with others in the sector, is undertaking certain strategies to address this issue, including clear contractual terms, risk assessment and management, negotiation and collaboration, standardised contracts, training and education, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Through industry collaboration, open communication, and a clear goal for a more balanced industry, Brefni is paving the way for a future filled with success, innovation, and further growth across Australia.
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