The redevelopment of RAAF Base Pearce includes a combination of new construction and refurbishment works that will enhance the Base’s operational capability reduce operational costs and improve the overall environment of the Base.

The project is the first redevelopment planned for RAAF Base Pearce and will focus on training output functions by replacing aged infrastructure and facilities to ensure the Base can support pilot training, as well as operational deployments and exercises.

RAAF Base Pearce is the only fully manned military air base in Western Australia, primarily significant strategic and operational importance to the Department of Defence.

The project aims to remediate identified deficiencies in all aspects of infrastructure at the Base, and encompasses 10 key elements, including:

• Upgrade and replacement of the ageing Base-wide engineering services, including water, sewer, stormwater, irrigation, power and communications;
• Construction of a new Fuel Quality Control Centre;
• Construction of a new combined mess, to replace four individual messes;
• Upgrade/replacement of the Air Movements Terminal and restoration of air cargo hangar facilities;
• Upgrade of maintenance facilities;
• Construction of a new noise attenuated Engine Run-Up facility, to provide noise protection for personnel and to reduce noise emissions outside of the Base;
• Installation of a Defence Restricted Network connection to the Base Briefing facility;
• Construction of 128 new Living-in Accommodation rooms for Cadet Pilots; and
• Demolition of derelict and redundant facilities.

Nilsen (WA) have secured Element A, this is the first of approx. 8 stages, Element A consists of upgrading the south & north HV rings, construction of a new Intake Sub station, supply and installation of 2 new 7.5MVA Transformers complete with 22kV switchgear. Supply and installation of new fibre comms network and upgrade of the power control and monitoring system. The new HV ring will feed 9 New Kiosk substations which will feed new and existing buildings. The works have already started with staged handover of substations in line with other elements of works being completed. Completion of element A is set for March 2010.

Procurement and lead in times will be the key for success on this project and the project team are working hard to achieve the procurement stage of the program.

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