Bellbrae Pump Station

Full design and construction of a sewer pump station supporting Bellbrae's transition from septic systems to a modern sewer network.

Scope

Keystone Civil undertook the full design and construction of a sewer pump station to transition Bellbrae from a septic system to a modern sewer network. Central to the works was the manufacture and installation of a 16,000-litre pump station, tailored specifically to meet the needs of the Bellbrae catchment and integrated with newly established infrastructure on-site.

The project also included the installation of extensive pipeline networks, comprising 2 km of 63 mm diameter sewer rising main, 1 km of 160 mm diameter sewer pipeline, and 3 km of 160 mm diameter water pipeline. These pipelines connect to Barwon Water’s system in Jan Juc, with alignment running parallel to the Great Ocean Road through sensitive pedestrian and nature areas.

Key infrastructure installed included scour valves for maintenance and air valves to regulate system pressure and prevent airlocks. Directional boring techniques were used to minimise surface disruption, particularly in high-traffic pedestrian zones near Bellbrae Primary School and along the Great Ocean Road.

The project significantly upgrades Bellbrae’s sewer and water systems, delivering reliable infrastructure that supports future growth while ensuring safe construction practices and minimal community disruption throughout the process.

Innovative Thinking

Boring was selected as the preferred technique for this project due to its minimal impact on local flora, fauna, and surrounding infrastructure, particularly along the pedestrian and bike access track. Initially, the scope of works anticipated encountering clay soil. However, it was discovered that the majority of the project site consisted of shaley rock. This unexpected condition rendered the original boring technique impractical. In response, the team made a strategic decision to adapt the equipment and change the head of the bore. This innovative adjustment allowed the project to proceed smoothly, ultimately delivering the required outcome within the planned timeframe.

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