Technical Bulletin | Rethinking Specifications

The shift to lower-carbon construction is creating new opportunities to rethink how projects are designed and delivered. By engaging concrete specialists early, projects can tap into the right expertise at the design stage to achieve better outcomes.

Our first Technical Bulletin highlights how early engagement can:

  • Unlock technical expertise from our highly experienced laboratory and engineering teams
  • Support bespoke, performance-based mix designs tailored to project needs
  • Provide lower-carbon products including Fututecrete® and EvoCem™ backed by independently verified EPDs

By bringing contractors and suppliers into the conversation early, we can work together to deliver stronger performance and sustainability solutions.

Read more, full bulletin available below:

Meet our People | Torie Bartlett, Hy-Tec Account Manager – NNSW

1. When did you start with Adbri and what attracted you to join us? 

I started with Hy-Tec, part of the Adbri family, in 2013 in a customer service role. Growing up locally, I was excited to join such a large company and be part of an industry that’s dynamic, hands-on, and constantly evolving. It felt like the right opportunity to build a career and challenge myself – especially coming from a small town. 

2. What is your role and qualifications? 

I’m currently a Concrete Account Manager for Northern NSW. My background is built on years of customer service, construction knowledge, and relationship management. Over time, I’ve developed a strong understanding of concrete applications, site logistics, and customer needs, which helps me deliver to projects of all sizes. 

3. What does a typical day look like? 

Every day is different, which is what I love most. I start by checking in with customers, coordinating deliveries, and solving any site challenges. A large part of my role is preparing quotations, pricing upcoming work, connecting with potential customers, and following up leads. I really enjoy getting out on site and visiting customers – many of whom feel like family. 

4. What do you love most about your job? 

The people. I’ve built strong relationships with my customers, and my Northern NSW team is like a big, blended family. We support each other, have a laugh, and get the job done. That mix of connection and teamwork makes every day enjoyable. 

5. What are you most looking forward to achieving or experiencing in your career? 

I’d love to continue mentoring others and perhaps step into a sales/people leadership role. The future is about pushing boundaries, helping more women into the industry, and driving innovation in how we sell and service concrete. 

6. What aspect of your role are people often surprised/fascinated to hear more about? 

People are always surprised by how much problem-solving and coordination is involved. It’s not just about taking orders – it’s about reading the site, understanding concrete mixes, predicting challenges, and being a trusted go-to for customers. 

Meet our People | Charlotte Lynch, Concrete Truck Driver

When did you start at Adbri, what is your current role and what attracted you to apply for the role?

I started at Adbri at the start of 2025 and currently work as a concrete truck driver for Adbri/Hy-Tec at Rosehill, Sydney. When I relocated to Sydney from Perth, I was looking for a company that offered steady work and good opportunities for growth. Adbri stood out as a place where hard work is valued, and I liked the idea of being part of a team that builds things that last.

What does a typical day at Adbri look like for you?

A typical day for me is up before dawn, hopefully getting to see a beautiful sunrise on the way to work.  I complete my truck inspection, then it’s straight into deliveries: load up, drive to site, pour the concrete, clean the truck, and get ready to do it all again tomorrow.

What do you like most about working at Adbri?

The team that I work with for sure. 

I work with a great bunch of guys who are always willing to lend a hand or offer advice. It makes a tough job much easier when you’ve got a supportive team around you.

What are you most looking forward to achieving or experiencing in your career?

I’d love to become a batcher or a mentor for new drivers, especially women entering the industry. Sharing my experiences and helping others succeed would be a great way to give back.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a role with Adbri?

Do your research, be prepared to work hard, put in the hours and show that you’re a team player. Adbri values people who are reliable, committed, and eager to learn.

What career advice would you share with other women looking to get into the industry or driver role?

Definitely give it a go – everything seems daunting at first. Coming from a small town in Ireland, I never imagined I’d be driving a concrete truck around Sydney, such a big and busy city. But I’ve proven to myself and others that I’m just as capable as anyone else. Focus on doing your job well, and let your hard work and dedication speak for themselves.

Project Highlight | Delivering with Precision: Hy-Tec Supports Pimpama’s New Medical and Lifestyle Centre

At Hy-Tec, we’re proud to be partnering with Phlat Constructions on the delivery of a new multi-storey medical and lifestyle centre in Pimpama, which is an important project that will bring expanded healthcare services to the region. Since May, our Hy-Tec plant at Yatala has supplied over 1,200 cubic metres of concrete to the site, with the total volume expected to reach between 2,000 and 2,500 cubic metres by completion. 

From the outset, the project presented a unique logistical challenge: the concrete agitators can only access the site via a single-lane road that serves as both the entry and exit point. With concrete agitators needing constant movement, precise coordination was critical to maintain pour schedules.  

To address this, the Hy-Tec team developed a detailed delivery strategy in collaboration with Phlat Constructions. Together, truck movements were coordinated around peak traffic, streamlined on-site communication, and made a key decision on the strategic placement of the pump -positioned to reach the slab efficiently while still allowing trucks to pass without delay. 

This proactive planning and close collaboration have kept the project running smoothly, eliminating unnecessary downtime and ensuring progress stays on track. It’s a strong example of teamwork, problem-solving, and smart planning in action – delivering results that will benefit the community for years to come. 

default

Project Highlight | Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 Concrete Supply

The Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 project is a major infrastructure initiative designed to improve public transport connectivity across the Gold Coast region. The project required significant quantities of concrete for essential components such as thrust blocks, footpaths, driveways, a decorative wall, stations, and stabilised stands.   

Since the commencement of Stage 3 in July 2022, Hy-Tec, an Adbri company, has delivered about 24,000m3 of concrete with strength classes ranging from 32 to 80 MPa. To meet the Stage 3 supply schedule, Hy-Tec’s Gold Coast team worked around the clock, delivering concrete six days and five nights each week.  

A standout design feature of Stage 3 is the unique 900 metre long, 2.4 metre high decorative retaining wall, which features an exposed aggregate finish to enhance the visual appeal.  What set this apart from traditional methods was the decision to pour over 900m³ of concrete for the wall in-situ, rather than using pre-cast elements, adding complexity to the construction process.  

 The challenge was twofold, achieving an even distribution of the aggregates for a flawless aesthetic finish, while maintaining the structural integrity of the wall. Working collaboratively with Stage 3 contractor, John Holland, Hy-Tec’s technical team developed a custom concrete mix and rigorously tested every load to ensure consistency. The professionalism and expertise of Hy-Tec’s drivers was crucial, as they handled the specialised mix with precision and care.   

This collaboration brought together innovative thinking, technical expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence – helping deliver Stage 3 with strong urban appeal for the Gold Coast community.   

Customer: John Holland 
Project: Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3  
Total Volume: 24,000m³ 

Delivering Excellence | Adbri’s Contribution to the Western Sydney Airport

With more than 240,000 tonnes of specialised quarry and concrete products supplied, Adbri is proud to have played a key role in the delivery of the new Western Sydney Airport – one of Australia’s largest and most significant aviation infrastructure projects. 

Across multiple packages, our teams have brought technical expertise, innovative thinking, and a strong focus on collaboration to help deliver critical elements of the development. From runways and taxiways to terminal aprons and access roads, Adbri has supported the construction of strong, sustainable foundations that will serve future generations. 

Terminal and Aprons Work 
Client: Western Sydney Airport Co 
Product Supplied: Cement-Treated Base (CTB) 

Adbri’s technical team collaborated extensively with stakeholders to design a material that met the project’s rigorous specifications. Pre-blended CTB material was produced at our Austen Quarry blending plant, ensuring consistent quality from the outset. On-site, the process involved the precise addition of cement and water using a modern mobile pugmill, allowing for seamless integration into the dynamic construction environment. 

Navigating existing services and coordinating with multiple project teams required exceptional communication and adaptability. Adbri’s innovative approach enabled us to minimize waste, synchronize production with supply, and ensure smooth delivery – showcasing our technical capability in complex project environments. 

Runway and Taxiways 
Client: Western Sydney Airport Co 
Product Supplied: P209 and P304 Quarry Products 
Volume Supplied: 182,841 tonnes 
Supply Timeline: January 2023 – November 2023 
 
Adbri supported the construction of runway shoulders, ends, taxiways, and access roads for this critical package. We tailored a material blend that met stringent design requirements while aligning with project timelines and budgets. 

Despite a nationwide trucking shortage, our proactive planning and strong delivery network ensured consistent supply and helped maintain construction momentum. This package highlighted our ability to deliver large volumes efficiently without compromising on quality. 

Cargo Area 
Client: Western Sydney Airport Co 
Product Supplied: P209 and P304 Quarry Products 
Volume Supplied: Estimated 65,000 tonnes 
Supply Timeline: October 2024 – February 2025 

Following the success of earlier packages, Adbri was engaged to supply premium quarry materials for the development of the Cargo Area. These products form the foundation of the apron and taxiway pavements, supporting long-term performance and durability. 

Landside Works 
Client: Western Sydney Airport Co 
Product Supplied: Concrete (various mixes) 

Our concrete team provided early input during the planning phases of the landside works, ensuring the right mix designs and supply approach for a wide range of applications – from drainage and footpaths to bridge piling and deck construction. This proactive involvement enabled efficient delivery and reliable performance throughout the build. 

M12 Central Package 
Client: Transport for NSW 
Product Supplied: Concrete (various mixes) 

Adbri was also involved in supplying concrete for the M12 Central Package, a key connection point supporting broader infrastructure around the airport precinct. Our early engagement and deep material knowledge contributed to a reliable, high-performance outcome across the project’s structural and civil elements. 

Adbri’s contribution to the Western Sydney Airport project demonstrates our ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure solutions with precision, innovation, and reliability. 

As the project nears completion, we’re proud to have played a key role in supporting Australia’s future growth – supplying sustainable, high-performance materials that will serve the next generation of communities and travellers. 

EvoCem™ Field Trial at M12 Motorway, NSW

Our second field trial of our innovative EvoCem™ Type GL cement as part of the M12 Motorway project with Transport for NSW (TfNSW), CPB and Georgiou has been completed. 

The trial compared concrete made with EvoCem™ against GP cement, assessing placeability, finishability, and compliance with TfNSW’s R83 pavement concrete specification. 

Trials are a key step in continuing to demonstrate the performance of EvoCem™ for use in major infrastructure projects – delivering lower carbon, proven alternatives that supports more sustainable construction. 

We’re proud to be working with TfNSW and our project partners to help reinvent the way our world is built.  

EvoCem™ Field Trial at Badgerys Creek, NSW

Adbri has pioneered the use of EvoCem™ Type GL cement in Australia.  To demonstrate the suitability of concrete manufactured with EvoCem™ lower carbon cement in roading authority projects, we’ve partnered with CPB and Georgiou to conduct field trials.  

These field trials tested the placeability and finishability of this mix when compared to a conventional Type GP cement mix.    
   
We’re proud to be working with leading contractors and Transport for NSW to be building a more sustainable future for the construction industry.  

Enhancing Marine Durability with Low-Carbon Concrete at Port of Brisbane 

Project Overview 

The Port of Brisbane, Queensland’s largest multi-cargo port, required the replacement of a deteriorating suspended concrete slab at Wharf 5. Originally built with a high GP cement content, the structure had experienced premature degradation due to chloride-induced corrosion in the aggressive marine environment. 

Challenge 

To extend the life of the new slab, the project team needed a concrete solution that delivered improved durability, workability, and sustainability – even in adverse coastal conditions and under strict site logistics. 

Solution 

Hy-Tec Concrete collaborated with Mapei Australia to develop a tailored low-carbon concrete mix incorporating Mapecube 60W, an advanced strength-enhancing admixture. This admixture enabled: 

  • Improved hydration and performance of SCMs (Supplementary Cementitious Materials) 
  • Lower clinker content for reduced embodied carbon 
  • Enhanced durability in harsh marine environments 
  • Better workability during placement despite weather and wait times 

Outcome 

The mix design supported efficient onsite placement while delivering a high-strength, durable, and environmentally responsible solution. The project demonstrated how innovation in concrete mix technology can support infrastructure longevity and reduce environmental impact. 

Meet our People | Lauren Heinjus, Graduate Stakeholder Relations

When did you start with Adbri, what attracted you to join us, and what is your role and qualifications? 

I joined Adbri in January 2025 as a Government and Stakeholder Relations Graduate. I was drawn to the program because I wanted to broaden my experience beyond my farming background and step into a new industry. Adbri’s strong reputation and long-standing presence really stood out to me, and the graduate role aligned well with both my interests and qualifications. I completed a double degree in Business and International Relations and Political Science, graduating in April 2025. This role has given me the perfect opportunity to apply what I’ve studied while continuing to learn and grow professionally. 

What does a typical day like as a graduate? 

As a graduate, no two days are the same. My role is varied, and there are always new opportunities to get involved in. Some days I’m at my desk, while others I’m out and about depending on the projects I’m working on. Each week looks a little different, which keeps things interesting. The variety has allowed me to develop a broad range of skills – something I’ve really enjoyed. 

What do you like most about working at Adbri? 

One of the highlights of the program so far has been the opportunity to travel to different sites across the country. What stands out most to me, though, is Adbri’s positive culture and flexibility. Everyone is approachable and willing to help, which creates a genuinely supportive environment. That sense of collaboration and openness is something Adbri really excels at. 

What are you most looking forward to achieving in your career? 

One thing the Adbri graduate program has really highlighted is the range of career progression opportunities available. Hearing from past graduates about their journeys has been incredibly inspiring and motivates me to keep pushing myself. I’m excited to continue developing my skills, taking on new challenges, and seeing how far I can grow.  

What advice would you give to someone applying for the Adbri graduate program? 

Adbri is a great place to kickstart your career. As a graduate, there’s a lot to learn, and it can feel a bit overwhelming at times – but that’s completely normal. Be confident in yourself and your abilities, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The team is supportive and always willing to help, so take every opportunity to learn and grow. 

What career advice would you share with other women?  

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, you bring valuable perspective and have the opportunity to drive meaningful change. Be confident in your knowledge, speak up, and embrace challenges as they come. Back yourself, know the value you bring, and don’t forget to celebrate your achievements along the way.