The Construction Source Australia

Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Australia, the magazine that highlights the best in building and building products across the country. For this edition, we have pointed out spotlight on Graya Construction, an award-winning building and development company behind some of Australia’s most innovative and unique homes. In recent years, they have moved into the multi-residential space, and they have come a long way in that space in a short time. We talked all about their success so far in that sector with David Campbell-Burns, the company’s multi-residence project manager. This issue also includes a number of industry leading builders, spanning multiple sectors and multiple states. SBD Studio, for example, an award-winning design studio based in the Sutherland Shire, dedicated to designing modern and functional homes throughout the shire and surrounding areas. We spoke to Jake French, the director and founder, about some of the studio’s recently awardwinning projects, including a highlight collaboration with Beyond Build Constructions that earned them national recognition from the Building Designers Association of Australia. Perway Construction Services, meanwhile, is a premier home renovation and homebuilding company in Perth, Western Australia, known for their focus on innovation and the environment. We caught up with Louise and Andy Kearns, who founded the fast-growing company back in 2017. We talked about the company’s rapid evolution, their passion for building “healthier homes,” and their commitment to building to Passive House standards. For those stories – and a whole lot more like them, in this edition and future editions – just keep reading. All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader,

MARCH 2025

The Construction Source Australia With a readership exceeding 136,000 senior executives, The Construction Source Australia takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source Australia, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e:info@theconstructionsource.com.au The Construction Source Australia Suite 11.01, Level 11, 175 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia info@theconstructionsource.com.au ABN: 42 976 059 923 Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Jacqueline Van Belois Business Development Managers Douglas Thomson Chad Hamilton Production Manager Brennan Midghall Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa Editor Joanne Fralick Administration Manager Belyn Quijance-Dorero

MARCH 2025 Industry INNOVATIONS Product of the Month The Kights Scanner GRAYA Setting new benchmarks in quality SBD STUDIO First time is the charm for award winning SBD Studio PERWAY CONSTRUCTION SERVICES Building a healthier future FREEDOM CONSTRUCTION Freedom Constructions gets it done ENGIE Pioneering the Future of Renewable Energy: ENGIE’s Vision for a Sustainable Tomorrow NEW CLASSIC HOMES New Classic Homes eliminates the middleman CPR ENGINEERS Celebrating 20 Years of Collaborative Excellence IN THIS ISSUE MARCH 2025 PERWAY CONSTRUCTION SERVICES ENGIE

MARCH 2025 Aluminum expected to accelerate worldwide adoption of electric and self-driving vehicles Material takes on an ever-widening role in tomorrow’s vehicles For more than a decade, concerns about fuel efficiency have been encouraging OEMS to replace steel with aluminum on vehicle bodies, doors, trunks, hoods, bumpers, crash boxes, brakes, cables and wheels. With the advent of electric and autonomous vehicles, OEMs worldwide are discovering new uses for aluminum. The need for battery casings and heat exchangers in electric vehicles, combined with autonomous vehicles’ demands for high visibility and structural integrity, is expected to exponentially increase the use of sheet aluminum in tomorrow’s cars, trucks and buses. Supporting the transition to battery-powered vehicles Four major design challenges confront OEMs in their transition to electric vehicles. Extending vehicle range Improving battery and passenger safety Increasing passenger comfort Optimizing cooling systems for lithium-ion batteries The substitution of sheet aluminum for steel helps resolve OEM concerns. Industry INNOVATIONS

The Construction Source Australia The lighter the vehicle, the longer its range. According to Ducker Worldwide, aluminum is expected to contribute more than half of the anticipated vehicle mass reduction demanded by electric vehicles (EVs) to extend range. Ducker reports that in North America alone, aluminum content in EVs will increase to nearly 565 pounds (256 kilgrams) per vehicle by 2028. The larger the vehicle, the heavier the battery and casing required to optimize the EV’s range. It is the larger EVs, i.e., sedans, SUVs, taxis, trucks and buses, that will realize the greatest benefits from a steel-to-aluminum conversion. In the U.S., a vehicle’s gross weight determines which class of commercial driver’s license (CDL) will be required. Without lightweighting, some EVs could demand a higher-class license or additional endorsements due to the added weight of the battery. In older European cities like Brussels or London, some bridges and tunnels only allow vehicles up to 3.5 tons in weight, a target that is very difficult to meet for larger EVs without lightweighting. For heavier material transport EVs such as trucks, weight reduction enables an increased payload, providing a significant monetary benefit. Generally, the larger the vehicle, the higher the payback. Particularly relevant for larger human transport EVs such as buses and taxis, the weight reduction made possible through aluminum provides the added benefit of reduced CO2 emissions and improved air quality, of value not only to vehicle operators, but to the communities they serve. The thermal and anti-corrosion properties of aluminum make it ideal for battery frames. Sea-water resistant, highly formable, highly surfaced aluminum alloys provide the strength necessary to pass side-impact crashworthiness testing, protecting passengers and the battery should impact occur. Casing floor plates made out of aluminum are not only strong, but also capable of resisting corrosion related to weather exposure. These characteristics enable aluminum battery casings to resist weather-related deterioration and impact from road debris, minimizing the risk of related fires and further securing passenger safety. Optimizing battery and human safety Extending range Dispersing heat The batteries used in EVs produce energy while charging and decharging, requiring the use of heat exchangers to dissipate heat. But the types of heat exchangers used in vehicle air conditioning systems are inadequate to meet this new challenge. Aluminum clad brazing (which connects multiple layers of aluminum together to disperse heat) requires heating in a controlled atmosphere (e.g., a vacuum) to achieve optimum joining. Aluminum heat exchangers designed specifically to meet the challenges presented by electric vehicles can use as many as five types of aluminum sandwiched together, with the layers providing gradient properties to optimize cooling. These specialized processes and materials address OEM concerns, ensuring adequate dissipation of the heat generated by battery-powered vehicles. An experienced aluminum processing partner can help OEMs specify the right process and alloys to meet specific vehicle temperature thresholds, ideally working side by side with OEM engineers early in the design process to maximize the performance of electric vehicles. IT IS THE LARGER EVS, I.E, SEDANS, SUVS, TAXIS, TRUCKS AND BUSES, THAT WILL REALIZE THE GREATEST BENEFITS FROM A STEEL -TO-ALUMINUM CONVERSION .

MARCH 2025 The luxury sedan market will likely be the first to transition to self-driving electric vehicles. Passenger comfort and safety, and an expansive view of the surrounding environment, are expected to be top priorities for this market. The hefty B pillars used in conventional vehicles to meet structural requirements for crashworthiness are undesirable in a self-driving scenario. To enable large windows and an unobstructed view without sacrificing passenger safety, lightweight aluminum will be the strong material of choice. Supporting the eventual transition to autonomous vehicles In addition to the design challenges presented by EVs, society’s demand for sustainable solutions will likely continue to be a driver in the transition to aluminum-lightweighted vehicles. A Forschungsgesellschaft Kraftfahrwesen mbH Aachen (fka) study, using a Volkswagen Golf as its reference vehicle, determined that an electric aluminum-based vehicle could meet the same safety standards as its steelbased equivalent, while emitting 1.5 tons less greenhouse gases over its lifecycle, taking into consideration production, a total driving distance of more than 93,000 miles (150,000 kilometers) and eventual recycling. Ongoing environmental concerns Conclusion Aluminum alloys are ideally suited to the design challenges presented by electric and autonomous vehicles. By aligning with aluminum partners deeply experienced in developing processes and alloys to meet demanding performance requirements, transportation vehicle OEMs are accelerating the pace of EV and self-driving vehicle adoption throughout North America. .

The Construction Source Australia Dedicated service to achieve best results using only quality materials and finishes while also creating solutions to maximise space and storage. Comprehensive consultations and advice, we treat each home as an extension of our own home and take pride in what we do. With over 30 years experience in the joinery industry, we help create dedicated spaces and keeping up with the latest kitchen designs and styles. We thrive on customer satisfaction and take the time to understand each and every individual needs. we also do shop fit outs, medical centres, school fit outs for class rooms, staff rooms etc. Artisanal Kitchen & Joinery PTY LTD Unit 19/264 Hoxton Park Road Prestons NSW 2170 Australia Phone : +61 2 8358 4688 Mobile : +61 484 745 124 Email : admin@artisanalkitchens.com.au Website : www.artisanalkitchens.com.au Call 1300 278 548 for assistance.

MARCH 2025 Business World Australia

The Construction Source Australia Business Worl d Australia

Setting new bench

hmarks in quality

MARCH 2025

Graya Construction is an award-winning building and development company behind some of Australia’s most innovative and unique homes. They are dedicated to building custom home and renovation projects that epitomise luxury and style, that are contemporary and unique, and that never compromise on the needs of their clients. Founders and directors Rob and Andrew Gray grew up around the construction industry, and they inherited his passion for construction from their father, who also ran a building-related company. They formed Graya Construction together in 2012 and the company has grown by leaps and bounds in the years since. According to David Campbell-Burns, the company’s multiresidence project manager, the company is still growing, and the way they are growing is exciting: “It has the feel of a start-up tech company,” David says. “It’s a young, dynamic business. No one’s stuck in their ways. I saw a lot of opportunity to help shape and grow with the business when I joined in its early stages.” These days, Graya Construction does a mix of new single family homes and multi-residential developments. In both sectors, their work tends to be high-end and premium quality – their new homes tend to have values upwards of $5 million, while their multi-residential projects are typically valued in the $20 million range. Graya Constructions’ entry into the multiresidential space was a relatively recent one. In a short time, however, the company has come a long way in that space. David believes the company was well-primed for that success, as Rob and Andrew have always been good at promoting the company, and have always had the ambition to do large and impactful projects. “As a builder, we were unique in that the brothers had a heavy focus on marketing,” David explains. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

“Through our journey as a house builder, we managed to get quite a bit of attention and a large following on Instagram. A lot of articles were coming out on houses we were building at the time. The company was growing quickly, and all the attention drove us into wanting to do bigger and better things.” That desire to do bigger things led to Maison – Graya’s first apartment complex. Maison was a small, single-floor five-apartment structure with city views, located in New Farm, one of the best suburbs in Brisbane. “It was a successful project built in 12 months and sold very well,” says David. On the back of that project was when the company’s real expansion started to happen, which happened to be the same time David joined the business. His first project was Canvas, a multi-unit development located in the suburb of Bulimba. “This was a significant increase in scale for Graya at 21 units with a construction value of $21 million,” says David. “It was one of the coolest projects I’ve ever been part of from a construction sense in terms of facade and street presence. The project is second to none in that area. It garnered a lot of attention and continued our push into the apartment space.” By the time Canvas was finished, Graya had another three multi-res projects on the books. “My background is in construction with experience MARCH 2025

in Tier 1 companies so a lot of people at the time wondered why I went to Graya,” says David. “It was their ambition. Rob and Andrew are in their 30s and their energy shows. Everyone’s ambitious at every level of the business.” “Rob and Andrew are always open to new ideas and suggestions,” David adds. “We have an innovation meeting every two months where we sit down and talk about things we’re doing, issues we have, and what we can do better. It’s for everyone at every level of the business to put things on the table.” In terms of the rapid growth, David again credits Rob and Andrew and their penchant for marketing and promotion. Construction is not an industry that’s known for a heavy emphasis on marketing, relying instead on repeat business and word of mouth, but Graya Construction is different. “Rob especially loves his Instagram page and puts a lot of emphasis on social media and how that affects our brand,” says David. “For him to take that tack in the construction business is different from what other builders would take.” Tied in with that, Graya works closely with XMEDIA, a full service video production house that works in Brisbane and Sydney. “It’s not uncommon to be walking about our sites and see a drone flying around and a camera crew on the ground,” says David. “That makes Graya a unique place to work as a builder. The ultimate goal of our marketing is to get a reputation which drives the prices of our unit sales as well.” David remembers working on Canvas, and bringing in XMEDIA to shoot footage at key times in construction. “When the basement was complete, we did a drone fly around and put an update together. We installed a spiral staircase that runs up the center of the building and had XMEDIA out to film that, and again for the installation of precast pools.” In addition to bolstering Graya’s reputation as a company, David says that media attention is appreciated by their team. He believes it gives the site guys a “boost” to know their work is appreciated and of interest to the general public. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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Graya Construction is backed by a lot of in-house experience and expertise – and not just building expertise, but also expertise in development, design, and even real estate. Having all those capabilities in-house is a significant point of difference, according to David. “We have integration and overlap in all facets of the business,” he says. “In a typical construction project, you go out to tender, you get the project priced, and then the builder wins the tender, and they start from scratch procuring everything from that point.” With Graya, however, the construction team is involved and reviews drawings when the building is first being drawn. They provide feedback to the architect about buildability and make sure the project can piece together from the early stage of design. “We’ve been looking at the drawings for 12 months before we get Taking the sector to new heights THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

to the construction site,” says David. “We’ve had input on how it’s designed, and we have more lead in time to procure certain things. Graya’s projects are very good to look at. That means complex materials and components are coming from overseas, so to have that extra lead time in procurement is massive. Being able to figure out the puzzle pieces before going on-site provides massive benefits as well.” Graya has grown by 30-to-40 people in the past year alone, with about 80 employees across development, construction, and design. About eight of their employees are architects, with the remaining 60 or so on site and in the office. According to David, any one of those employees has the freedom to approach Rob or Andrew at any time and have a conversation with them. There are no multiple layers of middle management to get through. Collectively, the business is very integrated, and everyone gets along well. Looking at the supply chain as a whole, the relationships with subcontractors and suppliers are also important to Graya. “We’re builders. We can’t put these jobs together without these relationships and without being able to rely on subcontractors and suppliers to give us the product on time and of the high quality we expect,” says David. Graya sets the bar very high on quality, and David says their suppliers play a key role in that mission. “We rely on our suppliers to provide great products. I think we’re at the stage where a lot of the suppliers we deal with know our expectations and can deliver a great product. If they weren’t there, we’d struggle to give the end product that we do.” MARCH 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

As a result of caring so much about quality, Graya has received a number of industry awards over the years – including 20 Master Builds Awards (MBA) over the last five years alone. Recently, for example, their Canvas project received the 2024 Master builders Queensland Award for ‘Residential Building (High-Rise over Three Storeys) – Up to $20 million.’ Other single-family projects won them ‘Best New Home - $4-5 million’ and ‘Best New Home – $5-6 million.’ At the 2024 Institute of Architects QLD Awards, Canvas also earned a commendation in the ‘MultiResidential Architecture’ category, and the firm as a whole won ‘Developer of the Year’ for all of Australia at the 2024 Urban Developer Awards. Moving forward, David says Graya Construction’s goal is to continue delivering projects worthy of those kinds of industry accolades. According to David, they want to deliver “exceptional projects that set new benchmarks for luxury living,” and they want to continue building a reputation reflective of their “unwavering commitment to quality.” “We are focused on taking the premium residential sector to new heights by delivering game-changing projects underpinned by visionary design and construction excellence,” David concludes. MARCH 2025 Email: sales@austmix.com.au Mobile: 0407 148 475 Office: 07 3184 2582 Website: www.austmix.com.au

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more information on Graya, and for more on their many award-winning projects, visit their website at https://www.graya.com.au/

First time is the charm for award winning SBD Studio Photography: Luke Butterly

CAV’ART Designer Stone Address: 18-20 Seddon Street Bankstown, NSW 2200 Phone: (02) 9708 5007 Email: info@cavart.com.au | Website: www.cavart.com.au You only have to look at the amazing images of homes and commercial spaces using CAV’ART Designer Stone’s products to know they sell an incredible natural stone range. With an ever-growing range of beautiful and colourful natural stones sourced from all around the world, CAV’ART has built a proud reputation for their stone quality and level of service. Based in Sydney, they offer large and diverse range of natural stone, and the team offers an honest approach to selecting natural stone for any application. MARCH 2025

SBD Studio is an award-winning design studio based in The Sutherland Shire, dedicated to designing modern and functional homes throughout the shire, Wollongong, the eastern suburbs of Sydney, and surrounding areas. Over the past seven years, the company has grown steadily in size and acclaim, building a portfolio of projects ranging from custom new builds and dual occupancy homes to medium and large renovations and townhouse developments – including one recently-award winning project, which was the result of their first-ever award submission. Jake French, director and founder of SBD Studio, originally started a solo venture under the name ‘Shire Building Design’, after having gained 10plus years of industry experience with various architectural firms across Sydney. Over a five-year period, the practice grew to a team of seven and their work became a lot more design-oriented. Last year, the studio rebranded in order to reflect their growth and evolution and their focus on crafting luxury homes. These days, Jake describes their projects as primarily residential, working with mums and dads and families that are looking to build their long-term or forever home. The company’s focus is on custom new builds, duplexes, and high-end large renovations. SBD Studio also has custom home builders and developer clients, designing projects with values between $500,000 and $5 million. “In most cases, we serve as the client’s first point of contact, while in others they come to us through referrals from builders we collaborate with,” Jake explains. “Our team oversees the entire process, from the initial consultation to construction and final completion. During our first meeting, we take the time to fully understand the client’s Photography: Luke Butterly THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

motivations and objectives for the project. While open-ended design briefs provide us with the greatest creative flexibility, we ensure that once the project scope is clearly defined, our diverse team explores a range of concept designs to bring the vision to life.” In the early stage of the process, the team explores every possible option. They engage with the builders to ensure the project is on budget, then coordinate the development approvals. They offer comprehensive construction documentation to their clients to allow them to gain a realistic, total build cost upfront before signing contracts. SBD also offers interior design services which includes creating photo-realistic 3d renderings, detailed drawings and schedules of all the interior spaces of the home. SBD Studio has a team of builders they work with regularly who are passionate about what they do, says Jake. “It is an enjoyable process for the client. The client has a designer they trust and a builder they can work with as an extension of us. We’ve aligned ourselves with good consultants, builders, and trades.” “We have some clients who come back to us for project after project,” says Jake. Through working with other architectural firms, the company has largely spread through word of mouth and referrals by past clients, builders, and other industry professionals, including engineers, and certifiers. “When we typically work with a builder, they like our process. They like the fact that we’re not just creatives, but understand construction also.” Photography: Luke Butterly MARCH 2025

Photography: Luke Butterly THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

“We have a practical approach to design,” he says. “We don’t design things that just look good but also have a sensible way of constructing that is within the client’s budget. We have a good handle on construction costs and construction in general, so we factor that into our designs to make sure we’re designing realistic projects that are going to get built.” SBD Studio has grown from a one-person operation to having five full-time staff. Their senior designer has 10-plus years of experience in residential design and construction. Another lead designer has a master’s in architecture. The team is rounded out with an interior designer who creates amazing spaces that tie the whole building together and a building designer who assists with drafting and simpler design projects. Regarding contractors, Jake says he has a lot of friends in the industry and knows a lot of different trades. “I’m not shy about asking questions. We lean on them and ask for advice. Pick their brains so our designs don’t cause problems when the contractors get on site.” The fact that they have been able to comfortably have these conversations with contractors has led to a level of trust and helped the relationship between designer and contractor over the years. SBD Studio’s hard work was recognized in 2024 when they received the Building Designers Association of Australia national award for ‘Residential Alterations/Additions over $1 million.’ This was the studio’s first submission, said Jake. The L’Arc Maison project is a residential home Photography: Luke Butterly MARCH 2025

in the Sutherland Shire overlooking the Royal National Park. The clients were Jason and Sara Economos of Beyond Build Constructions, with whom SBD had worked many times before. It started as an abandoned sandstone cottage on a hill in Gymea Bay. When Jason and Sara stumbled across that cottage in 2020, they were inspired by what they saw as untapped potential. They wanted it restored, with an addition on the hill that would capitalize on the view. “It was a tricky site to deal with,” said Jake. To link between the new and old building, SBD Studio went with a split-level staircase with a pop-up roof over it that allows light to filter into the central core of the home. This provided a clear distinction between the original sandstone cottage and the new contemporary rear addition that stepped down the hill. “It was a good collaboration between us, the client and builder,” says Jake. “We molded their vision into something that worked for the site.” SBD Studio also recently saw the completion of Redgum Gables in Cronulla, with WalkerBuild, a renovation with a modern-coastal aesthetic for a young family building their forever home. It features a high level of finish that is a different style than L’Arc Maison, says Jake. The project features a “dreamy space” where the kitchen seamlessly connects the internal and external living spaces, offering stunning views in both directions. One view overlooks the private pool and alfresco area, and the other captures views over Gunnamatta Bay. Phone: (02) 8880 4480 | Email: info@mybuildingcertifier.com.au Website: www.mybuildingcertifier.com.au My Building Certifier (MBC) offers a comprehensive service in all areas of building certification throughout Greater Sydney and the Illawarra region. We specialise in residential development, and our team is able to cover all aspects and issues relating to Class 1 and 10 buildings, which include single, dual occupancy and multi-dwelling housing, garages, retaining walls, swimming pools, and more. What sets MBC apart is our knowledge and experience, combined with our attentiveness to the needs of our clients, within a highly regulated industry. Our Registered Certifiers have an in-depth understanding of the relevant legislation and building codes, and we pride ourselves on our level of communication. Get in touch with us today to discuss certification of your upcoming project. Engadine Duplex Designer – SBD Studio | Builder – RenXtend Photographer – Adam Crews Imagery Cronulla House Designer – SBD Studio | Builder – WalkerBuild Photographer – Luke Butterly THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

“We have a responsibility as designers to practice what we preach and make our buildings as sustainable as they can be,” says Jake, adding that there are elements of sustainability that are cost-effective and some that aren’t. In the current building climate, where costs have skyrocketed, he finds the more expensive sustainability elements tend to be the first thing to go when it comes to the clients. “We implement solar panels, rainwater tanks, and passive design principles in all our projects. We find taking it to the next level and increasing insulation and double-glazed windows are things we’re already doing,” he says. SBD Studio has evolved a lot over the last five years. “We were doing 50 smaller projects a year three years ago. But now we’re focusing on doing fewer projects, of higher quality, and the average project value is considerably higher,” says Jake. They like offering clients a As sustainable as possible Photography: Luke Butterly MARCH 2025

Photography: Luke Butterly Photography: Luke Butterly THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

full-scope design and documentation service. This includes detailed construction documentation where they work in sections to resolve issues that might arise for builders on site, plus allow the client to receive a clearer understanding around the design intent and what the true cost will be SBD Studio provides interior design services; custom joinery designs, kitchen, laundry and bathroom design, and internal finishes as designed and specified. The number of these projects is increasing for SBD Studio. “Our goal is to continually strive to provide exceptional design and documentation services and increase the quality of projects every year, working with good builders and collaborating to get the best out of each project for our clients,” says Jake. “There is no plan to double the team or anything like that as we want to maintain quality control over our high-end architectural designs in new homes, duplexes, and renovations.” Photography: Luke Butterly MARCH 2025 Photography: Luke Butterly

Photography: Luke Butterly THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more information about SBD Studio, and to get in touch with Jake and his team, visit their website at https://sbdstudio.au/

Building a healthier future

Russell Building Approvals Address: Unit 15/56 creaney Drive, Kingsley Director: Karl Russell | Phone: 08 6296 5351 | Email: info@rbawa.com.au Website: www.russellbuildingapprovals.com Russell Building Approvals is a Level 1 Registered Building Surveying Practice set up to offering certification services for all classes of development from Class 1 & 10 Residential to Class 2-9 Commercial. is a ng company mpliance evelopments. pprovals eyor) WA 6026 u vals.com.au Our company deals with the following: • Certificate of Building Compliance (dealing with unauthorised works from Classes 1 – 10 or the strata of residential properties) • Certificate of Design Compliance (ensuring that whatever development you construct complies with the current BCA requirements) • Certificate of Construction Compliance (issued for when the applicant is applying for an occupancy permit to occupy a premises) If your business would be interested in contracting my services, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me or check out our website. Our company deals in the certification of all classes and also offers the following services: • Building Certification Services • Building Consultation Services • Advice in all aspects of building control • Building Surveying Services • Building Design Advice • Architectural Design & Drafting • Assistance with local government building approval process • National Construction Code (Building Code) audits • Due Diligence Reports • Energy Assessments • BAL Assessments Russell Building Approvals is a registered building surveying company dealing with all sorts of compliance issues from Class 1 – 10 developments. Russell Building Approvals Karl Russell (Director/Building Surveyor) Mobile: 0416 382 246 Email: karl@rbawa.com.au Unit 11, 56 Creaney Drive, Kingsley WA 6026 Office Email: info@rbawa.com.au Office Manager: jerilee@rbawa.com.au www.russellbuildingapprovals.com.au Our company deals with the following: • Certificate of Building Compliance (dealing with unauthorised works from Classes 1 – 10 or the strata of residential properties) • Certificate of Design Compliance (ensuring that whatever development you construct complies with the current BCA requirements) • Certificate of Construction Compliance (issued for when the applicant is applying for an occupancy permit to occupy a premises) If your business would be interested in contracting my services, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me or check out our website. Our company deals in the certification of all classes and also offers the following services: • Building Certification Services • Building Consultation Services • Advice in all aspects of building control • Building Surveying Services • Building Design Advice • Architectural Design & Drafting • Assistance with local government building approval process • National Construction Code (Building Code) audits • Due Diligence Reports • Energy Assessments • BAL Assessments Russell Building Approvals is a registered building surveying company dealing with all sorts of compliance issues from Class 1 – 10 developments. Russell Building Approvals Karl Russell (Director/Building Surveyor) Mobile: 0416 382 246 Email: karl@rbawa.com.au Unit 11, 56 Creaney Drive, Kingsley WA 6026 Office Email: info@rbawa.com.au Office Manager: jerilee@rbawa.com.au www.russellbuildingapprovals.com.au Our company deals with the following: • Certificate of Building Compliance (dealing with unauthorised works from Classes 1 – 10 or the strata of residential properties) • Certificate of Design Compliance (ensuring that whatever development you construct complies with the current BCA requirements) • Certificate of Construction Compliance (issued for when the applicant is applying for an occupancy permit to occupy a premises) If your business would be interested in contracting my services, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me or check out our website. Our company deals in the certification of all classes and also offers the following services: • Building Certification Services • Building Consultation Services • Advice in all aspects of building control • Building Surveying Services • Building Design Advice • Architectural Design & Drafting • Assistance with local government building approval process • National Construction Code (Building Code) audits • Due Diligence Reports • Energy Assessments • BAL Assessments MARCH 2025

Louise and Andy Kearns have redefined home building by combining quality craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and an unwavering commitment to client care. Founded in 2017, Perway Construction Services began when Andy, a skilled carpenter by trade, recognised a gap in the market. “I was working for someone else and saw a gap in the market in the sense of being able to give clients a better customer experience,” Andy recalls. This insight propelled him to create a business that not only constructs exceptional homes but also nurtures lasting relationships with its clients. Beginning with a focus on carpentry, the company quickly evolved. In 2020, after earning a reputation for quality renovations and attention to detail, Perway transitioned into a full-scale building company. This pivotal change allowed the Kearns’ to expand from traditional carpentry into highend new builds and large-scale renovations—all while holding firm to a core philosophy centered on health, sustainability, and innovation. It was at this point that Andy, drawing on his European background, began to see the potential for a better way of building homes in Australia. Embracing Passive House Principles became a hallmark of their work. “We noticed that houses here in Australia could be built in a better, healthier, more energy-efficient way,” Andy explains. This vision is reflected in every project with features such as timber frame, double-glazed windows,, air cavities, superior weatherproof wrapping and insulation, and advanced HVAC systems that ensure exceptional indoor air quality. By incorporating these elements, Perway Construction Services creates homes that are as enduring as they are elegant, designed not just for aesthetics but for a lifetime of health and comfort. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

MARCH 2025

These days, Perway is known for their meticulous approach to every detail. The company educates clients about selecting low VOC paints and ecofriendly flooring options, ensuring that their home minimises harmful emissions. “We choose products that are better for your health because a home isn’t just a structure—it’s a sanctuary where you spend most of your time,” Andy emphasises. Perway’s commitment to quality materials minimises future challenges such as leaks, damp, or mould, and it reflects an ethos of caring for the occupants long after the build is completed. Equally significant is the personal touch brought by Louise, General Manager, who, alongside Andy as Director and Builder, ensures that every client’s journey is smooth and educational. “Our focus is really on the customers and their experience, even more so than the products that we build,” Louise says. As a company, they understand that building or renovating a home is one of the largest investments a person makes— often ranging between $600,000 and $1.2 million. With stakes this high, they believe in providing an immersive, educational experience for each client. Prospective homeowners are invited to visit their yard, where two mock-up walls are displayed—one built to national standards and one showcasing their advanced passive house techniques. This visual comparison is not only an educational tool but also a powerful reassurance that every detail matters. Perway also highly values energy efficiency, and they strive to build their homes to Passive House standards. This approach leads to homes with lower utility bills and reduced long-term maintenance costs, with their homes often paying THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

for themselves within seven-to-10 years. More importantly, the enhanced indoor air quality, reduced risk of mould, and elimination of damp issues create a healthier living environment. “When you invest in a Perway home, you’re not just buying a building—you’re investing in a healthier way of life,” Louise notes. Innovation is at the heart of Perway’s success. One of the company’s most exciting developments is the introduction of Eco Pods—a new line of prefabricated living units designed to address modern housing challenges. “The Eco Pod is our answer to the challenges of today’s housing market,” Andy explains. These compact units, built to the same rigorous Passive House standard as their larger projects, provide an energy-efficient and affordable housing solution. Whether envisioned as a modern granny flat or as a practical solution for families facing housing shortages, Eco Pods offer flexibility without compromising on health or sustainability. This new product line represents Perway’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the community. Community commitment is at the heart of the Kearns’ philosophy. Recognising that quality construction can have a profound impact beyond individual homes, they launched the ‘Build it Forward’ initiative. “We started ‘Build it Forward’ to help repair, renovate, or landscape homes for those in need. It’s about giving back to the community,” Andy passionately shares. Though still in the process of becoming an official charity, ‘Build it Forward’ has already made significant strides by rallying tradespeople and suppliers to volunteer their time and expertise for community projects. This initiative underscores a deepseated belief that investing in quality construction should also mean investing in the community’s well-being. When clients choose Perway, they’re not just building a home – they’re supporting a greater mission to make a difference. A key element that reinforces Perway’s excellence is their partnership with Russell Building Approvals. By working closely with regulatory experts, the company ensures that every project meets the highest standards and exceeds regulatory requirements. This collaboration streamlines the approval process and further solidifies Perway’s reputation as a leader in sustainable, innovative construction practices. The integration of expert guidance from Russell Building Approvals means that each build is as safe and durable as it is modern and efficient. MARCH 2025

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The process of building with Perway is marked by a genuine commitment to client relationships. “Typically, issues come up on every project. No matter what—you can never have a perfect project. It’s just a matter of communicating well with clients and having honest conversations and to show that we’re here to look after you. We’re here to work together as a team,” Andy asserts. This promise to support clients long after the completion of a project is central to the company’s philosophy. It reinforces the idea that when you invest in a Perway home, you are choosing a partner who will stand by you through every challenge. Louise and Andy’s story is one of passion, innovation, and integrity. Their approach demystifies the construction process and empowers homeowners to make confident, informed decisions. They understand that while the technical aspects of building are important, the emotional connection and trust built with clients are invaluable. Committed to clients MARCH 2025

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“When people invest what is likely the biggest investment of their life, they should choose a builder who listens and understands them,” Andy remarks. This client-first mentality is what sets Perway apart in an industry where rushed timelines and subpar customer service have become all too common. Over the years, the evolution from a small carpentry business to a pioneering building company has been driven by bold choices and an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability. Andy’s transformation from tradesman to visionary builder is fuelled by a desire to bring European standards of energy efficiency and health to Australia. His insistence on using superior materials and advanced techniques—even at a higher upfront cost—reflects his belief that long-term benefits far outweigh initial expenses. This forward-thinking approach ensures that every project not only meets today’s needs but is also prepared for the future. Perway Construction Services stands as a testament to what can be achieved when innovation meets empathy. Their builds are more than just structures; they are carefully crafted environments designed to enhance quality of life. The combination of sustainable building practices, stateof-the-art materials, and a deep commitment to client care has resulted in a portfolio that is as impressive as it is inspiring. MARCH 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on Perway Construction Services, and to get in touch with Andy and Louise, visit their website at www.perway.com.au

Freedom Constructions gets it done

MARCH 2025

Freedom Construction is a locally-owned-andoperated builder in Cairns, Queensland. Since coming to life in 2015, they have delivered a multitude of successful projects spanning a range of sectors, including the residential, commercial, and government sectors. Within all those spaces, they have become known for their ability to problem solve and find innovative solutions to difficult building scenarios. They have also been recognized for the quality of their craftsmanship. “I’m passionate about what I do,” Brodie says. “I care about getting things right – and so does my team. We pride ourselves on getting the job done effectively and efficiently, on budget and with minimal errors. That’s why we’re still going strong nine years in. These days, Freedom Constructions takes on a wide variety of projects, mostly within the borders of their home base of Cairns. A lot of their projects are commercial and government buildings, though “we like to keep a foot in the door with residential high-end builds or renovations as well,” Brodie says, as “we get a lot of job satisfaction out of those.” In terms of size, scope, and value, they will take on projects valued from $50,000, as well as new construction projects valued as high as $5 million. Moving forward, they are interested in taking on more jobs on the higher end of that scale. Brodie is proud of the company’s quality of work, which has led to many satisfied and repeat customers. “A lot of the jobs we tender on for government are based on our previous experience and the personnel we bring to the table,” he says. “We can demonstrate how we’re going to deliver the job based on previous experience with our clients. I feel that, along with competitive pricing, always helps us win jobs.” Many of Freedom Constructions’ repeat THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

customers come from their positive relationships with local government procurement and delivery people. “Procurement asks what it’s like to work with us, and the delivery people give feedback, and we get opportunities based on that positive feedback,” says Brodie. Over the years, Freedom Constructions’ small team has gone through periods of growth and contraction, depending on the projects coming up and what’s involved in them. Currently, they rely largely on their trusted network of subcontractors and tradespeople. “We manage a lot of subbies,” says Brodie. “We’re the glue that holds everything together and makes sure quality and deadlines are reached.” Sometimes, Brodie has to change things up to stay competitive price-wise with the tendering process, but they try to garner long-term relationships with their suppliers. “If your preferred supplier is more expensive, you may have to go with another one to win the job, but we do have longstanding relationships with suppliers like Cairns Hardware, PMC, and Lysaght Steel,” he says. It’s the same with their subcontractors, he says. “They look after us, and we look after them. That’s the kind of relationship we like to build with them.” The attention to detail and quality of construction delivered by Freedom Constructions’ team has resulted in the company being recognized with multiple awards. Recently, for example, their ‘Kewarra Beach Abode’ architectural renovation project received multiple awards from both the HIA and Master Builders. MARCH 2025

“That build was on the corner of a block. It included an awesome curved and wavy blockwork wall and an outdoor bathroom,” said Brodie. “The sewer line ran in both directions, so we had to do things to the wall to transfer the weight away from the sewer line. It is white render with a clear sealer around it. The gardens and outdoor bathroom look out on it as well. The house has a hand pitched timber roof as part of the extension. It was an interesting and unique job, well designed by the people involved.” Freedom Constructions took home the 2024 Master Builders Far North Queensland Award for ‘Home Renovation $450,000 to $650,000’ for that job, as well as the award for ‘Best Residential Bathroom’ at the Queensland Awards a few months later. The HIA further recognized the Kewarra Beach Abode as their Far North Queensland ‘Renovation/ Addition Project of the Year over $500,000.’ That was a joint award with their cabinet maker in recognition of the high quality of the renovated bathroom. More recently, Freedom Constructions completed a job in May 2024 at a training facility for the Great Barrier Reef International Marine college, where they set up a land-based davit (a small crane on board a ship, especially one of a pair for suspending or lowering a lifeboat). The facility is used for personnel to renew their certificates and take courses. “Before we did the job, there were only two training facilities in Australia that did training for using those lifeboats – Tasmania and Perth, on the other side of the continent,” says Brodie. “We had to take a refurbished crane, do the structural work, and set it up in Cairns for an additional training facility. It’s not something you come across every day in the building industry. It was interesting to work through that one and see what was happening.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Brodie believes there is a part to play in the construction industry around sustainability. “It’s a double-edged sword,” he says. “Sometimes it would be easier to start afresh rather than do half a demolition - strip everything out and start again. There’s a fine line between the two options. We focus on sustainability where we can and go to the refuse tip where they sort the materials rather than go straight to the landfill.” Freedom Constructions wants to look after the environment. To this end, they are an ecoBiz Star Partner. ecoBiz is a free program for small and medium-sized Queensland businesses with less than 200 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs). The program provides personalised coaching, training, and tools to help reduce consumption of water, waste, and energy, manage carbon emissions, and improve resource efficiency and sustainability. According to their website, over 1000 Queensland businesses have received direct support Looking after the environment MARCH 2025

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under the ecoBiz program at no cost, with 90% reporting an increase in productivity and savings. Brodie has plans for growing Freedom Constructions in the future, moving more into the small-scale development space, but while still serving the residential, commercial and industrial spaces. “We see ourselves growing in the government space and keep nurturing those relationships,” he says. “We will keep our foot in the door with residential projects at the same time, which are good for staff morale. They enjoy some of those commercial projects with fitouts and also some of the residential projects that provide a nice view while working and get to install luxury finishes in high-end builds. We are the builders who love all that FNQ has to offer, and we want to see our Cairns community grow and develop for the better.” MARCH 2025 Concreting (residential, commercial and industrial) Earthworks (slab prep, detailed footings) Phone: 0407 261 226 | Email: info@wielandcontracting.com.au

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