BESIX Watpac becomes the first builder to gain maritime accreditation by TfNSW

This milestone reflects BESIX Watpac’s sustained excellence in delivering complex maritime infrastructure projects, including the Ferry Wharf Upgrade Program (FWUP3). The accreditation spans a broad range of lifecycles and disciplines, from wharf, jetty, and pontoon construction to piling, fendering, and corrosion control – underpinned by the company’s robust systems engineering, assurance, and quality management capabilities.

The accreditation provides Transport for NSW and other delivery partners with enhanced confidence in the reliable and consistent delivery of their assets. It establishes a clear framework of accountability and quality in the form of embedded competency-based systematic assurance processes, ensuring that infrastructure outcomes meet expected standards and performance benchmarks. “This accreditation is a testament to the technical depth and collaborative spirit of our people,” said BESIX Watpac General Manager for New South Wales, Giovanni Polimeni. “It reflects our commitment to excellence in maritime and transport infrastructure and our ability to deliver complex projects that meet the highest standards of safety, quality and innovation.

“We’re proud to be setting a new benchmark for the industry and look forward to continuing our partnership with Transport for NSW.”

BESIX Watpac designed and constructed the North Sydney, South Mosman, Taronga Zoo, Greenwich Point, and Double Bay Wharves for TfNSW, whilst also preparing designs for Darling Point, Manly Wharf 3 and Manly Cove West. Key challenges included integrating with the diverse limited pool of specialist supply chain partners and difficult site constraints whilst managing continuity of work amid iterative project awards. BESIX Watpac proactively engaged new partners while maintaining high standards to deliver the wharves.

“Since securing the Managing Contractor role in 2021, BESIX Watpac has successfully delivered multiple wharf upgrades,” said Giovanni. “We were selected for our collaborative contracting approach and complex engineering expertise. I’m incredibly proud of the team’s work and what this means for our New South Wales business.”

Accessibility was central to every design decision, ensuring full compliance with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT). Features included floating pontoons, compliant gangways, vertical transportation lifts, hearing augmentation, and equitable access paths.

The achievement has strengthened BESIX Watpac’s relationships with key marine supply chain partners and TfNSW, laying the groundwork for future collaborations.