Engineers at Redland Shire Council in Queensland have cause to congratulate themselves with two recent significant achievements. Not only did Phil Hennessey, Director of Engineering Services, become the first Queenslander to win the Keith Wood Medal for his outstanding contribution to engineering in Local Government but Redland became the first Council in Australia to obtain Quality Accreditation for all facets of its Engineering services.
Engineering Services Committee Chairman, Councillor Trevor Abeya, said that Redland has been fortunate to have one of Australia’s most experienced engineering specialists heading this team.
“Phil is always striving to provide our ratepayers with one of the best and most environmentally friendly engineering services in Australia,” Councillor Abeya said.
Phil Hennessey has now been recognised for his contribution by both the State and National Divisions of the Institute of Municipal Engineering Australia. One of his most significant achievements has been the $25 million scheme to harvest and deliver underground water from North Stradbroke Island to supplement the Shire’s supply.
Among other projects the Department is currently undertaking are alternative wastewater systems, including land disposal of effluent by irrigation. Full accreditation under the Quality Systems accreditation scheme has been awarded for the design, construction and maintenance of roads; drainage and marine facilities; transportation and traffic planning; water supply and sewerage systems.
Council sought accreditation across the board for two principle reasons – “The first was to ensure its Engineering Directorate provided the most efficient, high quality services it could achieve for ratepayers,” said Councillor Abeya. “The second was to ensure Council is in the best position for any tendering opportunities which may arise in the rapidly changing Local Government environment.”
A list of procedures and work instructions now means that Council can operate with relieving staff having full access to information they need. A records system also tracks customer complaints, requests and statistics.
For further information contact Julie Saunders, telephone (07) 3286 8726.
