On Wednesday,10 September, in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, representatives from the Tongan Government, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and McConnell Dowell signed the contract for a new USD$97 million infrastructure development- the largest project we have won in the Pacific.

The project will involve building a new 720-metre-long bridge across the Fanga’uta lagoon, to connect Nuku’alofa with the southeastern side of Tongatapu, Tonga’s main island.

When completed, the bridge will provide an important evacuation route in emergencies. It will also shorten pedestrian and car journey times, ease traffic congestion and help support the long-term relocation of communities affected by climate change.

Fraser Wyllie, the Managing Director for New Zealand and the Pacific, said it best, “we are not just building bridges, we are building futures”. 

He acknowledged that “the project award was recognition of the team’s outstanding work” self-delivering the Queen Sālote Wharf Upgrade, and that it “will provide continued opportunities for our local workforce”.

About 80 per cent of the team are local, and will transition to the Fanga’uta project later this year.

The scope includes building the new bridge, a roundabout, 2.1 kilometres of approach roads extending to Vaini, ancillary customs buildings, drainage and lighting. The project is estimated to take three and a half years to complete.

Click here to find out more about the Fanga'iuta Lagoon Bridge project. 

Renders of the new bridge.

We are pleased to announce that Maurits den Hollander has been appointed as General Manager – Queensland and Northern Territory.

Maurits brings over 17 years’ experience in construction & civil infrastructure delivery across Australia, with a proven track record in regional leadership, major pipeline and transport projects, and operational excellence in sectors ranging from water and resources to renewables.

Since joining McConnell Dowell in 2021 as Commercial Manager QLD/NT, Maurits has played a key role in strengthening our commercial capabilities and driving the success of projects across the region. His leadership approach is grounded in collaboration, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.

As GM QLD/NT, Maurits will lead our talented Queensland and Northern Territory team as they deliver complex infrastructure for our customers and communities.

Please join us in congratulating Maurits on his well-deserved appointment. We look forward to seeing the ongoing success of the QLD/NT team under his leadership.

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mark Twycross, former McConnell Dowell Company Director and Executive General Manager of Pipelines.

Mark dedicated many decades of service to McConnell Dowell, where he played a pivotal role in developing our Pipelines Division and securing major projects across Australia, South East Asia, and beyond.

He was a respected leader and mentor who supported and believed in those he worked with, shaping countless careers and making a lasting contribution not only to McConnell Dowell but to the wider Australian Pipeline Industry. Mark was also a strong advocate for safety, championing WHS culture and continuous improvement across the sector.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Mark will be remembered for his leadership, his care for people, and his enduring impact on our company and industry.

Lower the booms, silence the trenches—another legend has left the Right of Way.

• Upgrading 50 tonne bollards to 100 tonne capacity

• Concrete remediation

• Sheet pile wall remediation

• Installation of a new crane rail

These works will help ensure Swanson Dock West continues to operate safely and efficiently, supporting the flow of goods through one of Australia’s most important port facilities.

The project is scheduled to commence in September 2025, with completion targeted for late 2027.

We thank the Port of Melbourne for their ongoing trust and look forward to delivering another safe and successful outcome together.

Read more about the project here.