Wheatstone

The market for marine works is dynamic and demanding, requiring ad hoc, innovative solutions and involving a high level of risk. Onslow in Western Australia is prone to tropical storms, high seas and unpredictable weather, making marine protection critical to transport in the area – especially for global energy company Chevron, which operates a facility along the nearby coast. Chevron had to find design and construction subcontractors that are capable of meeting greater-than-usual market demands.

BESIX and Thiess were chosen as joint subcontractors by Chevron Australia to design, source and construct a series of marine works in a remote location, often over open water and under dicey environmental conditions. The design of the works also incorporated construction elements that have never been applied to offshore structures.

Taking a slow and steady approach characterised by an extreme focus on safety-in-design, BESIX was able to complete the project 3 months ahead of schedule with zero safety or environmental incidents. Chevron’s new offloading facility consisting of two quays and a 1-km breakwater made of rock and concrete designed to last a half century, even in the face of storm surges, extreme waves and seismic activity. The BESIX team relied on its expertise in creative solutions to combine offshore stone columns with partial soil replacement to keep costs down.