Robert Alvarez
30 Years of BSE
30 Years of BSE
Robert Alvarez
Touch Base with TeamBSE – Solomon Aluague
Touch Base with TeamBSE – Solomon Aluague
Robert Alvarez
Workout 24/7 at Club Lime Rosebery!
Workout 24/7 at Club Lime Rosebery!
Robert Alvarez
Australia's Fifth Five Guys Opens in Martin ...
Australia's Fifth Five Guys Opens in Martin Place
Robert Alvarez
GroundUp Studio Expands to NSW!
GroundUp Studio Expands to NSW!

Elevation | Andrew Sayer Elevated to Director – VIC

BSE is pleased to announce the elevation of Andrew Sayer to Director – VIC.

 

As State Lead based in our Melbourne office, Andrew will oversee BSE’s operations across Victoria. With his strong multi-disciplinary capabilities and focus on client satisfaction, the VIC office is in excellent hands. Under Andrew’s leadership, the team will continue to work closely with clients and project partners to identify opportunities for efficiency and delivery of practical and effective engineering solutions.

 

Andrew said of his appointment: “I’m honoured to step into the role of VIC Director at BSE. I’m grateful for the support and trust of our leadership team, the collaboration of our clients and partners and the ongoing dedication of the brilliant team around me. I’m excited for what’s ahead as we continue to grow our presence in Victoria and deliver practical, high-quality engineering solutions.”

 

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion, Andrew!

Making Movie Magic at AIE Canberra

BSE is proud to partner with the Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) on the multi-stage transformation of its Watson Campus in Canberra—set to become a landmark hub for film, games, and interactive media education in Australia. As part of its bold campus renewal, AIE has directly engaged BSE to deliver mechanical, electrical, and fire protection engineering services for Stage 1 of the redevelopment.

 

AIE, a not-for-profit educator based in Canberra, is a world leader in specialist games and visual effects education. The academy offers a dynamic range of courses spanning game development, animation, film, and VFX.

 

Stage 1 of the redevelopment includes the establishment of an interim stand-alone campus made up of three buildings: a Student Production Hall, Production Hall Facilities with Workshop, and an Education and Industry Building. Future stages are planned to include Student Accommodation, along with additional Production Halls, and further Education and Industry spaces.

 

As part of this $200M+ three-stage renewal, BSE’s designs take into consideration the future stages of the project. The electrical scope for Stage 1 includes reviewing solar energy integration, designing power infrastructure for EV charging facilities, and developing telecommunications layouts including distribution frames and outlets.

 

Brendon Newham, BSE’s Director for ACT says that “We’re proud to be part of a project that puts Canberra on the map for film and game production. We’re grateful to AIE for trusting us to help deliver the engineering behind a campus that will open up real opportunities for local students and the creative industry.”

 

The ultimate goal is for the campus to become Canberra’s principal destination for games and film education, research, and production. By attracting larger interstate and international productions, AIE will provide students and graduates with greater job opportunities within the industry. The completed campus is projected to host up to 600 students by 2038 and will function as an integrated living, learning, and working destination.

 

John De Margheriti, Chairman and CEO of AIE, widely regarded as the father of Australian video games, says that “Effectively, AIE Studios will provide all the gear, all the equipment, the caveat remember is that it births from an educational institution, what we’re trying to get out of it is to make sure our graduates have placements. So, we want to see our job rates go through the roof.” John’s goal is to create something special in Canberra so that more Hollywood-scale movies can get made in the ACT.

 

BSE is excited to be part of this groundbreaking project, which will help shape the Australian film industry.

 

Project Lead: Brendon Newham

 

Images Courtesy of AIE

Amelia Fraser Chosen to Participate in 500 Women in Property for FY26

The Property Council of Australia has announced its 500 Women in Property for FY26, and #TeamBSE is proud to share that Amelia Fraser, Manager – National Strategic Partnerships, has been chosen to participate.

 

Amelia will be supported by Ken Loh, Associate Director – VIC, who will act as her sponsor throughout the 12-month program.

 

Now in its 10th year, 500 Women in Property is an initiative that supports the advancement of women in the property industry by helping to elevate female talent and create pathways to leadership.

Welcome | Jamie Waygood Joins Our NSW Team With a Focus on Newcastle

BSE is pleased to welcome Jamie Waygood as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, with a focus on supporting our clients in the Newcastle region.

 

Jamie is a skilled mechanical engineer listed on the National Engineering Register (NER), with over 10 years of experience spanning mining, building services, energy efficiency, and HVAC design. He has worked across a range of sectors, including health, industrial, aged care, laboratories, education, commercial, residential, retail, and transport.

 

His diverse project involvement includes work on NorthConnex, Macquarie Island Research Station, Scone Equine Hospital, and ANSTO Nuclear Medicine Research Laboratory.

 

Jamie brings strong capabilities in energy modelling, Section J and JV3 compliance, and in delivering cost-effective, sustainable solutions to BSE’s clients.


Stuart Johnson, BSE’s NSW Director, said:

“We’re excited to have Jamie on board. With his knowledge and experience across major infrastructure and complex building projects, Jamie is well-placed to support our clients in Newcastle and the Hunter region as we continue to grow our presence there.”

Beyond BSE | David Luck Admitted Into the Order of St John

We’re proud to share that our very own David Luck, National Team Leader – Acoustic Services, was recently admitted into the Order of St John, a profound honour recognising his charitable service, particularly through his work with St John Ambulance (NSW).

 

The Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency Margaret Beazley AC KC, in her role as Deputy Prior of The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, conducted investitures for admissions to and promotion within the Order.

 

We're pleased to share some lovely photos from the day, featuring Dave and his partner Suzanne at Government House.

 

Congratulations from #TeamBSE, David!

Life at BSE | Brisbane’s Amazing Race

BSE’s Brisbane team recently hit the streets for their very own Amazing Race! 🏁 It was a day full of challenges that had teams bringing their A-game.

 

A big congratulations to the Candy Crushers for taking first place! 🍬🍬🍬 Shoutout to Robert Holman (team captain), Deney, Bevan, Yi, Jasmin, and Emma, who dazzled the competition in their hot pink high-vis. 🥇

 

Hats off to Lettuce Win, Fireballs, Ruban’s Cuban Fusion, The Typhoon Syndicate, and Black Bandits for giving them a run for their money! Who do you think had the best team name and costume? 🤔

 

Want to join TeamBSE? 🙋 Check out our openings here.

Welcome | Robert Holman Joins BSE as National Team Leader for Vertical Transportation

BSE is excited to welcome Robert Holman as our National Team Leader for Vertical Transportation, based in our QLD office. In this national role, Robert will collaborate closely with our teams across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, and Adelaide.

 

Robert is a highly experienced vertical transportation engineer, with the past 9 years spent designing and implementing lifts, escalators, and moving walkways. He is registered in New South Wales as a Design Practitioner for Vertical Transportation and is a member of the Lift Engineering Society of Australia.

 

He brings deep technical knowledge and a strong focus on delivering innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions. His sector experience spans commercial, education, government, healthcare, aged care, hospitality, residential, retail, and transport. Robert has worked on a wide range of projects across Australia, as well as internationally in New Zealand, Vietnam, Thailand, and Papua New Guinea.

 

With Robert on board, there’s nowhere to go but up for BSE’s clients . . . unless there’s a basement – then we’ll go down too.

 

Robert said of his appointment:

“This role presents a fantastic opportunity to lead the technical direction and strategic growth of our Vertical Transportation capabilities across the country. I’m looking forward to driving innovation, integration, and performance across a wide range of projects—ensuring our VT solutions are practical, future-ready, and user-centric, contributing meaningfully to the performance and experience of the greater built environment.”

BSE Guides QLD Buildings to Achieve WiredScore Accreditation

In today’s digital world, reliable and resilient connectivity is no longer optional, it’s essential. WiredScore, a globally recognised certification, offers a clear competitive advantage by verifying that a building's digital infrastructure supports modern business needs, enhances tenant experience, and is ready for future technological advancements. This means that landlords and developers can lease their buildings faster by leveraging the great digital connectivity in their buildings.

 

Our QLD team has recently guided three prominent buildings in the state through the WiredScore certification process:

 

 

In addition, 450 Queen Street, currently under redevelopment in Brisbane, is undergoing WiredScore certification.

 

These great results underscore BSE’s commitment to designing and delivering buildings that not only meet today’s digital connectivity demands but are also future-ready. WiredScore certification ensures our projects align with the highest global standards, reinforcing our reputation as leaders in smart, innovative building design.

 

Need guidance in attaining your WiredScore certification? Whether it’s an existing building or a new development, BSE is here to help clients navigate the process while delivering cost-effective design strategies that support achieving the client’s desired score.

Image courtesy of Kgbo

Newcastle Condition Audit for Venues NSW

BSE has proudly worked with Venues NSW for the past several years. Our NSW team has had the pleasure of working on iconic venues such as the Sydney Cricket Ground, Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium, and WIN Stadium.

 

Our latest engagement with Venues NSW brought us to Newcastle. BSE was tasked with conducting comprehensive Condition Audits of existing building services installations at McDonald Jones Stadium and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Showground. These audits are essential for the assessing the current state of plant and equipment, establishing a risk profile, and determining the remaining lifespan of critical assets.

 

The team also highlighted necessary rectification works, providing clear commentary on compliance issues and identifying potential risks. This enables Venues NSW to make informed decisions regarding maintenance planning and budget allocation for the next 5 years. This proactive approach helps ensure that the venues remain operational and safe for all users. The audit covered the electrical, mechanical, fire protection, and hydraulics building services.

 

The McDonald Jones Stadium is located the heart of Newcastle and is a hub for sports and entertainment. Home to the Newcastle Knights in the NRL and the Newcastle Jets in the A-League, it hosts exhilarating matches that bring together passionate local fans. Beyond sports, the stadium welcomes major concerts and events, with Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Pink having performed at the venue. Given its prominence, maintaining the safety and reliability of the stadium’s building services is paramount.

 

Equally important, the Newcastle Showground which houses Newcastle Entertainment Centre serves as a versatile venue for concerts, exhibitions, and sporting events. Over the years, it has hosted numerous renowned artists such as Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Taylor Swift to name a few. With its ability to adapt to various events and accommodate large audiences, the centre is a cultural cornerstone in the region.

 

BSE is pleased to support the safety and sustainability of these significant venues. Our work helps Venues NSW ensure that the high-quality experiences that McDonald Jones Stadium and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Showground have to offer will be enjoyed for years to come.

Images courtesy of McDonald Jones Stadium

Welcome Q&A | Ken Loh

With Ken Loh joining #TeamBSE three weeks ago, we thought it was the perfect time to sit down and get to know him a little better. In this Q&A, Ken shares what drew him to BSE, his approach to working with clients, how he hopes to support the team’s continued growth and success, and more.

 

What attracted you to BSE?

I was drawn to a reputable and successful Australian company where I have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact alongside a talented and passionate team.

 

What can clients expect when working with you?

My clients can continue to expect our dedication and commitment to partnering with them to deliver beyond their expectations.

 

How can you contribute to BSE’s growth?

My passion to grow the BSE business and team, leading, mentoring, guiding, and developing future generations of consulting engineers.

 

Can you tell us more about your career?

Qualified as an Electrical Engineer, I have spent close to 40 years in the Consulting Engineering industry. My career has progressed from being a Technical Lead in Electrical Engineering to serving as State Director for the Victoria and Queensland offices, and eventually taking on responsibilities in Marketing and Business Development.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible legends of the industry. I am passionate about giving back by mentoring and guiding young professionals in their careers. I’m actively involved with the Property Council, both as a mentor and as a committee member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

 

In your career, what accomplishments are you most proud of?

Highlights of my career include contributing to the growth and success of my previous firm, Umow Lai & Associates, into a national company with 150 staff, and supporting its transition into an international business.

 

I’ve had the privilege of delivering landmark projects such as the Commonwealth Law Courts, Bendigo Law Courts, Southgate Development, the Rialto, and several PPP projects in the education and corrections sectors. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been witnessing the growth and success of my mentees as they progress into senior leadership roles within their organisations or launch their own businesses.

 

What’s Ken like outside of work?

I love the outdoors and nature; I especially enjoy hiking with family and friends. I stay active through regular gym workouts and weekly hikes. I’m also passionate about travel and look forward to exploring more incredible trails across Asia, Europe, and South America.

 

Thank you for taking the time to share your story with us, Ken! We're excited to have you on board and look forward to the impact you’ll make on the VIC team and across BSE in your role as Associate Director – Electrical. Welcome again!

Life at BSE | January to March 2025

Here are some of the things that we've been up to over the past couple of months:

📍 Brisbane started the year with a Hawaiian BBQ! 🍖 🍖 🍖

📍 Sydney got ready for Lent by celebrating Pancake Day! 🥞 🥞 🥞

📍 Brisbane had a festive Mexican-themed lunch! 🌮🌮🌮

📍 Sydney went on a duck hunt with some fun raffle prizes! 🦆 🦆 🦆

Want to join Team BSE? 🙋 Check out our openings here.

Surging Self-Storage in Victoria and New South Wales

The self-storage industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years and has benefitted from disruptions caused by the pandemic. According to an IBISWorld report, “A number of effects caused by the pandemic and associated lockdowns – including a rising death rate, a spike in divorces, a surge in housing transfers and a boom in online shopping – all supported strong demand for self-storage services.”

 

To meet demand, prominent self-storage providers have been setting up new facilities throughout Victoria and New South Wales. BSE has collaborated with Storage King, National Storage, Storage Plus, and Kennards Self Storage to provide electrical, mechanical, fire protection, and hydraulic design services for some of their latest locations.

 

Self-Storage Facility Locations:

  • Mascot, NSW | New

  • Knoxfield, VIC | New

  • Mordialloc, VIC | Redevelopment

  • South Morang, VIC | New

  • Croydon, NSW | New

  • Wollongong, NSW | New

  • Chatswood, NSW | Extension

  • Lansvale, NSW | New

  • Kingsgrove, NSW | Addition & Alteration

  • Taren Point, NSW | New

 

BSE also provided acoustic engineering services for selected facilities, especially at locations which required acoustic reports in order to secure development approval (DA). To accomplish this, background noise monitoring is conducted to determine the noise criteria for onsite activities. Using these criteria, recommendations are included in the report to minimise the noise impact to nearby sensitive receivers when necessary.

 

We at BSE look forward to working with our industry partners on many more facilities to satisfy the storage needs of Australians throughout the country.

Welcome | Industry Leader Ken Loh Joins BSE Victoria’s Leadership Team

We’re proud to welcome Ken Loh as Associate Director to our growing Victorian management team.

 

Ken’s appointment marks a strategic step forward in strengthening BSE’s presence and capability across the Victorian property and construction sectors. With over 30 years of experience across Australia and New Zealand, Ken is a respected leader in the built environment, known for his collaborative approach, market insight, and successful delivery of major projects across education, government, commercial and aviation sectors.

 

Ken will work alongside Director Terrence Hing and Associate Director Andrew Sayer to support the continued growth of our Victorian team. His deep passion for mentorship—reflected in his long-standing involvement with the Property Council of Australia’s Mentoring Programme—also aligns closely with BSE’s values of True Partnership and People & Community.

 

We’re thrilled to have Ken on board and are confident his leadership will contribute meaningfully to our culture, people, and projects.

 

Welcome to #TeamBSE, Ken. Let’s shape the future of engineering together.

BSE Spotlight: P&C With Claudia Faulkner

In the second instalment of BSE Spotlight, we sit down with our National People & Culture Manager, Claudia Faulkner, to discuss all things P&C!

 

Claudia shares why BSE is a great place to work, from our steady and consistent headcount growth to our commitment to promoting diversity.

Let us know what topic you'd like us to cover in the next instalment of BSE Spotlight! 🎥 Alternatively, tell us who from BSE you want to hear from!

30 Years of BSE

Last night, BSE celebrated 30 years of engineering excellence. The event was attended by past and present clients, project partners, and team members who gathered to commemorate BSE’s journey—from a two-person operation in 1994 to a business of over 100 people today.

 

BSE’s CEO, Andrew Fraser, shared insights into the company’s continuous development and its commitment to adopting industry trends. He highlighted how the foundation of BSE has always been about being true partners—standing shoulder to shoulder with our clients. That building on this, we are striving towards a future that’s brighter, faster, and more connected than ever before. With sustainability, efficiency, and smart infrastructure reshaping the industry, BSE is not just keeping pace, we’re leading the way. By embracing artificial intelligence, advanced software solutions, and data-driven design, we are revolutionising the way we work.

 

The soundtrack of the night featured a special playlist showcasing the top 5 songs from each of BSE’s 30 years—a true trip down memory lane. You can listen to the bespoke playlist here. 

It was a night filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of unforgettable moments.

 

A big thank you to everyone who has collaborated with BSE over the past three decades—whether you were a partner, team member, or co-contributor. You are all part of our story. We at BSE look forward to seeing what the next 30 years have in store!


Touch Base with TeamBSE – Solomon Aluague

A demonstrated team and project leader, Solomon Aluague brings over 15 years’ experience in ESD principles, design and documentation of mechanical design and engineering to our Sydney team as our Interiors & Refurbishments Lead. Solomon’s project leadership, understanding, knowledge and skills offer clients a passionate problem solver who produces exceptional project outcomes for clients and business partners.

 

What is your background story?

Reflecting on this, mathematics has always been a stronghold for me. Even young, I enjoyed and had good results in the subject and found great enjoyment in hands-on activities such as woodwork and building. Probably inevitable that I would head towards engineering, rather than accounting or finance. Influenced by my father's profession as a mechanic, I gravitated towards mechanical engineering and pursued it through my degree.

 

When I started work, I found myself in the realm of engineering consultancy, where I gained invaluable practical experience. The application of theoretical knowledge to real-world building projects fascinated me, solidifying my commitment to the field. Over the span of 15 years, I still enjoy seeing a project come to life that I’ve helped design.

 

Did you choose engineering, or did it choose you?

I deliberately pursued engineering, drawn to its intriguing blend of practicality and intellectual challenge—a natural fit given my background in mathematics and familial influences. Excelling in subjects that naturally aligned with engineering principles, my path towards this field felt inevitable.

 

During a career expo, a high school project tasked me with envisioning my future profession, leading me to create a collage dominated by images of service-oriented industries, consultancy, and construction. This exercise solidified my inclination towards a career where I could apply my skills in a hands-on and impactful manner.

 

How do you feel services engineers add value to projects?

Services engineers play a crucial role in projects by providing clients with comprehensive insights into various options available, including cost implications and risk considerations. They excel in presenting multiple solutions, complete with pros and cons, and offer recommendations based on the project's specific needs. Moreover, services engineers take full ownership of the scope of services, ensuring alignment with client requirements through a collaborative partnership approach. They prioritise creating safe environments for users across various settings, whether it's the workplace, home, educational institutions, or public spaces, considering both daily operations and emergency scenarios. Ultimately, services engineers are instrumental in ensuring that buildings function efficiently and effectively, meeting the diverse needs of end-users while optimising safety and accessibility.

 

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Deadlines and growth (of self and of our team).

 

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no?

Yes – on selected “Aussie” types of pizza only.

Workout 24/7 at Club Lime Rosebery!

BSE was engaged by Viva Leisure to provide mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and fire protection engineering design services for the new Club Lime Rosebery.

 

Project Lead: Solomon Aluague

 


Club Lime is one of Australia’s leading health clubs, boasting over 30,000 members. The newly opened location at 713 Botany Road, Rosebery, offers a spacious, two-level workout area. As a premier fitness destination, it operates 24/7 and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

 

The fit-out of the existing building required modifications to the fire protection, hydraulics, and mechanical systems. Of particular importance was the major upgrade of the smoke hazard protection system in order to meet the gym’s requirements. A CDC application was submitted to expedite the approval process.

 

BSE is delighted to have partnered once again with Viva Leisure. Great job to all the collaborators for making this beautiful fitness space a reality.

Australia's Fifth Five Guys Opens in Martin Place

Today marks the grand opening of Five Guys at the Martin Place Metro Station! This 96-seater location is the fifth in Australia. BSE is proud of our continuing collaboration with Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group, having worked on all five stores.

 

This new spot is a welcome addition to the precinct, ready to serve hungry commuters in the heart of the CBD.

 

Partnering with COOOP.Co, our NSW team delivered the building services engineering design and construction services, led by Solomon Aluague, Associate Director - Interiors & Refurbishment NSW.

 

BSE’s Godfrey Frederick and Robert Alvarez paid a visit to celebrate with some milkshakes!

Elevating Excellence This International Women’s Day

This International Women’s Day, we’re thrilled to celebrate the elevation of Mun Ng to State Lead - South Australia! This marks a significant milestone for BSE as our first female State Lead.

Mun has been a driving force within BSE (SA), earning the trust and respect of colleagues through her dedication, professionalism, and approachable leadership. With 16+ years of experience in Adelaide, her sharp business acumen and technical expertise make her the perfect fit for this role. Congratulations, Mun!

Today, we also celebrate a major milestone—31% female representation across BSE! This progress reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace where everyone can thrive.

At BSE, we believe that diversity drives innovation. Every team member brings unique perspectives and expertise, strengthening our collective impact and making BSE a hub for growth and excellence.

Here’s to celebrating women in leadership, engineering, and beyond!

GroundUp Studio Expands to NSW!

BSE was engaged by Mont Projects to provide mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and hydraulic engineering design services for the fit-out of GroundUp Studio's first location in NSW, situated in Alexandria.

 

Project Lead: Solomon Aluague

The warm shell required comprehensive electrical work, including the installation of new heat panels, lighting layouts, emergency lighting configurations, power distribution plans, and a max demand calculation to evaluate the need for a sub-mains upgrade. Additionally, a new kitchenette was incorporated into the space, complete with a Zip HydroTap. Testing and calculations were conducted to ensure adequate heating and ventilation, as well as sufficient fresh air circulation.


Viva Leisure’s GroundUp Studio specialises in reformer Pilates, yoga, and barre classes, with five locations in ACT. Their bright, inviting studios are designed to be a sanctuary where members can work out, unwind, and recharge. Their thoughtfully curated class offerings help participants strengthen both their bodies and minds, providing a holistic fitness experience. GroundUp Studio is located at 372-376 Botany Road, Beaconsfield.


Congratulations to GroundUp Studio on their new location in NSW! A job well done to Mont Projects and all other collaborators for bringing this beautiful fitness space to life.


 

Building Services Engineers

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