SPARKS+PARTNERS Twenty Sixteen: A year in review

2016
Providing quality engineering
services since 1989

TWENTY SIXTEEN
A YEAR IN REVIEW
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD
Expand, enhance, engineer: A message from Garey 05
PEOPLE
Up-and-coming: A cadet’s journey [ Snapshot I ] 11
Office harmony: Diversity is our strength 12
Healthy inside and out: Our workplace minds [ Snapshot II ] 15
Snapshot III: Formal staff survey 17
CAPABILITY
2016 WSABE: Business of the Year 22
Who's the fire starter? Welcome, Paul De Las Alas 28
Tiny Homes to bigHEARTED: Special capabilities required 30
Welcome additions: Morgan on Civil 36
TECHNOLOGY
Design and BIM update: From Bruno 37
Navisworks works: Projects in 5D 43
On-the-line: S+P hit the social scene 44
PROJECTS
Brighton Lakes: Recreation and Golf Club 07
Promenade No. 2: Stages two and three 18
Tuggerah Super Centre: Large Format Retail 24
Ashfield Central: Residential and Retail Square 33
Reece Plumbing and Bathrooms: Distribution Centre 39
REVIEW
From Leon: 12 months in 12 paragraphs 48
REGARDS
Thank you: It's been a great year... 50

TWENTY SIXTEEN
GAREY
SPARKS
PRINCIPAL
DIP ENG
(HYDRAULIC)
LICENSED
PLUMBER & GAS
FITTER
AHSCA FULL
MEMBER
Cappuccino,
one sugar
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 04

SPARKS+PARTNERS
EXPAND, ENHANCE, ENGINEER
A MESSAGE FROM GAREY
Last year marked the first successful year following our merger, and I
am pleased to report that 2016 has seen us conclude another year of
considerable growth.
The company’s technology expansion into Revit and BIM has fuelled
new projects using this technology, and helped our staff acquire new
skills that will promote further growth in the future.
Growth this year has also enabled us to purchase new hardware assets
to manage this technology and streamline our output, keeping ahead of
new programmes to develop our clients’ projects and train our staff.
Over the past 12 months we have also grown our expertise in the field
of fire engineering, employing a full-time fire services design engineer.
Sparks+Partners can now provide a professional service to all current
and future clients.
Again, this in-house expertise will help our staff in the fire services
design team attain skills far beyond the basic standards that have been
documented to date.
The new year will see Sparks+Partners commence its 29th year
of operation, and I look forward to seeing further growth in our
organisation’s capacity.
The team and I wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday period and
prosperous year ahead.
Garey Sparks
Company Founder and Trusted Advisor
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 05

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 06

PROJECTS
BRIGHTON LAKES
RECREATION AND GOLF CLUB
MOOREBANK NSW
The new Brighton Lakes Recreation and Golf Club house
has been architecturally designed to showcase the beautiful
surrounds and landscape. A combination of great facilities and
stunning views, it's an inviting destination for local residents and
visiting golfers alike.
The proposed development consisted of a two-level clubhouse
building with provisions for a third level, including a number of
licensed club activity rooms, meeting room, commercial kitchen,
gaming areas, outdoor facilities, general toilet amenities and a
new bitumen carpark. The building was also to be accessed via
a central foyer and staircase.
Sparks+Partners was engaged to provide engineering services
covering hydraulic services design, food and beverage fitout and
fire hydrant design and commissioning for the project. This was
delivered in close conjunction with James Clifford Construction,
the main design and construct (D&C) contractor on behalf of the
end client and Altis Architects.
The project presented some hurdles, with all operations taking
place within an existing and live populated subdivision where
safety was crucial.
Water pressure on the site was limited, and the construction
phase had to be staged to cater for a variety of other external
factors. These impacted the design process in terms of longer
timeframes, and a heightened need for close communications
and compliance with rigorous yet important safety measures.
To work around the site’s unusually low water pressure,
Sparks+Partners created an innovative fire hydrant concept
that limited the demands of the fire hydrant pump system and
reduced the reliance on pressure.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 07

TWENTY SIXTEEN
HIGHLIGHTS
+ + Hydraulic services design
+ + Food and beverage fitout
+ + Fire hydrant design and
commissioning
+ + Unique fire hydrant design for
low water pressure
TEAM
+ + Leon Dimino –
Lead Engineer, Project Director
+ + Bruno Lara – Lead Designer
+ + Morgan Walter –
Quality Assurance
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 08

PROJECTS
PROJECT
DETAILS
Nuwarra Road
Moorebank NSW 2170
Western Sydney
Brighton Lakes
Recreation & Golf Club
James Clifford Construction
Altis Architecture
$10-20 million
construction
2,000m 2
area (footprint)
100%
complete
Images source Andre Morawski
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 09

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
SNAPSHOT I
QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION
20
EMPLOYEES
ACTIVE MINDS
93%
MEN
{ Men and
women
who are
tertiary
qualified }
80%
WOMEN
11%
STUDYING
39%
DEGREES
21%
CERTIFICATES
III OR ABOVE
90%
TERTIARY QUALIFIED
STAFF
29%
DIPLOMAS
{ Two of
our staff
graduated
in 2016! }
CONGRATULATIONS!
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 10

PEOPLE
UP-AND-COMING
A CADET’S JOURNEY
BY DANIEL DREWITT
As I am currently finishing up with my degree and moving into a
full-time position at Sparks+Partners. I wanted to contribute a little
write-up about my cadetship, university experience and involvement
with the Young Engineers Australia Sydney branch (YEAS) of
Engineering Australia (EA).
Now in the third year of my undergraduate degree in civil engineering
at Western Sydney University, I have had the pleasure of being adopted
into the small engineering family here at Sparks+Partners.
For the past year, I have worked side-by-side with several intelligent and
professional engineers on numerous projects. During this time, I have
been given the opportunity to develop my own professional expertise
and engineering knowledge within a practical environment.
Alongside my professional career at Sparks+Partners I have also
enjoyed being a part of the Young Engineers Australia (YEAS)
committee as campus coordinator for the university.
This role has allowed me to meet young professional engineers from
a range of engineering disciplines. Additionally, I have been able to
proudly promote Sparks+Partners at YEAS and EA events while
developing my own professional industry network.
Now that I have completed my undergraduate degree I look forward to
continuing my professional development with Sparks+Partners as their
new graduate civil-slash-hydraulic engineer.
PS:
My first real responsibility at Sparks+Partners will be to keep and take
care of the toner. Here, my special duties and role will entail being the
Toner Change Officer, Toner Liaison Representative, Toner Removal
Specialist and Toner Stacker Technician.
All are recognised as illustrious titles in any workplace, and for this
honour I hope ultimately to be known as the Keeper of the Toner.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 11

TWENTY SIXTEEN
OFFICE HARMONY
DIVERSITY IS OUR STRENGTH
SHARING IS CARING
Harmony Day, held on 21 March, celebrates Australia’s cultural
diversity. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of
belonging for everyone. It is a day for all Australians to embrace
cultural diversity and to share what we have in common. The
central message for Harmony Day is that ‘everyone belongs’,
reinforcing the importance of inclusiveness to all Australians.
Harmony Day has fast become a Sparks+Partners favourite,
where we all enjoy a slice of everyone’s culture, in a flavoursome
week-long food festival. We first attempted to celebrated on one
single day, but soon realised we had way too much to share.
A roster was devised for our ‘A Taste of Harmony Week’ and
each member of staff was allocated a day and a one dish limit.
Starting on Monday, Harmony Day, and running to Friday, the
office was treated to sampling more than 20 favourite foods,
cherished recipes and traditional fares.
The week of celebration was a hit, and we plan to make it bigger
and better each year. Learning and sharing with our colleagues
has proved a great way to build relationships, welcome new
ideas and forge a future together.
Along with Harmony Day, throughout the year – like many other
offices around the country – we stop and make time for other
special causes and events. These include Red Nose Day, Genes
for Jeans, Mental Health Week, Melbourne Cup, Remembrance
Day, International Migrants Day and a host of staff milestones
and company anniversaries.
At Sparks+Partners, we’ve made it our business to make
this a nice place to work, where staff are valued and want to
participate. That includes creating a little more downtime in an
increasingly busy schedule.
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 12

PEOPLE
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 13

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
SNAPSHOT II
TEAM PRIORITIES
25%
FEMALE TEAM
TOP FIVES
2%
INCREASE
{ In female
staff from
2015 }
BANANAS
FOR BANANAS
47%
MANAGER
SUPPORT
5STAR
CULTURE
1-IN-2
EDUCATION
& TRAINING
#1
IMPROVEMENT
FREE FRUIT
53%
WORK-LIFE
BALANCE
{ Followed
in rank
by the
removal
of paper
archives,
new office
layout
and IT
upgrades }
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 14

PEOPLE
HEALTHY
INSIDE AND OUT
OUR WORKPLACE MINDS
Last year, we committed to formalising our annual staff survey and as
promised, in September we canvassed our teams' thoughts on six key
areas: satisfaction, company culture, communication, environment and
ergonomics, social activities and future outlook. Each of these sections
consisted of five questions.
The format was primarily multiple choice, with only a handful of
questions calling for non-compulsory written submissions. This
ensured that the survey as easy as possible for all to complete, to
encourage participation and increase the response rate.
The survey was also anonymous, to ensure everyone felt comfortable
about providing honest answers and feedback. This in turn helps
management make better decisions for employees and the company.
The survey results were very positive and we achieved a 99.7 per cent
response rate – 344 out of 345 possible questions were answered.
As a knock-on from the survey, this year Sparks+Partners are taking
time out and putting good mental health on the agenda, kicked off on
World Mental Health Day. We want our workplace to be a supportive
environment where people can deal with their mental health free of
prejudice, stigma and negativity.
In times of mental hardship and distress, people often feel selfconscious
and like they're failing. We understand that silencing such
negative thoughts can be overwhelming, draining and make the
day-to-day a struggle.
We believe friends and colleagues who are experiencing problems
or suffering with mental health issues shouldn't have to ignore or
suppress them. Like any health issue, treating the signs early and
asking for help are key to getting back on track quickly.
We ask our staff to seek help, and encourage them to speak to trusted
colleagues or a manager about how they’re feeling. Sparks+Partners
want staff to feel safe and communicate openly, comfortable in the
knowledge their situation and privacy will be respected.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 15

TWENTY SIXTEEN
Alongside our focus on mental health, Sparks+Partners are
also investing in our people's need for continued education,
up-skilling, good nutrition, great atmosphere and (occasionally)
some old-fashioned fun.
We've expanded our development program with more frequent
and varied 'Tuesday Tech Talks', hosted by a nominated team
member, to discuss a topic of interest or to share their expertise.
It's a relaxed, open forum where everyone can participate and
absorb practical, relevant knowledge that can be applied to
living designs and projects.
Active minds need nourishment, so we are providing food-forthought
with a weekly delivery of fresh fruit, free for the whole
office to enjoy. We’ve noticed that you have to get in really quick
for the b-a-n-a-n-a-s!
In response to a growing pool of talent, Sparks+Partners have
radically revised our office layout, switched chairs, added
exercise balls and even a standing desk. We've created more
space by undertaking a massive archiving exercise, making way
for better movement and a cleaner workplace.
The new layout streamlines the chain of communication, brings
teams together and provides distinct areas for day-to-day ops.
The Sparks+Partners lunchroom is now tucked away from the
hustle and bustle, creating a mental and physical retreat, to help
staff achieve better-quality breaks. We have a designated print
station with plenty of room to spread out and all the necessary
supplies at hand.
Last year we informally canvassed staff and requested they
give us their (achievable) work wish-list. From that list, we've
introduced Sparks+Partners uniform shirts, overhauled our IT
infrastructure and improved workstation ergonomics.
Our Friday Pollo Lunch tradition continues once a month, and is
anticipated by all staff members. It's an opportunity to unwind
together, muse on news and indulge in delicious food and fun.
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 16

PEOPLE
SNAPSHOT III
FORMAL STAFF SURVEY
6
KEY AREAS
THE STATS
74%
OF S+P STAFF
FEEL VERY VALUED
{ Staff
rated S+P
4.5 stars
overall }
4.5
STAR EMPLOYER
70%
OUTLOOK
HIGH
SATISFACTION
HIGH
ACTIVITIES
70%
ENVIRONMENT
1-IN-4 PEOPLE SAID
99%
RESPONSE RATE
344/345 Q&A
{ Pollo Day
was their
favourite
activity }
41-60%
COMMUNICATION
80%
CULTURE
HEY!
POINT OF IMPROVEMENT
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 17

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
PROMENADE NO. 2
STAGES TWO AND THREE
PARRAMATTA NSW
Multiresidential development Promenade No. 2 is marketed
as ‘capturing all that’s best about river life’. The residence
has a parkside location in Sydney’s epicentre, multicultural
Parramatta – already Australia’s fifth-largest economy, and
considered to be Sydney’s second CBD.
Sparks+Partners was engaged by Precision Fire Protection
Services on behalf of the design and construct contractor,
ProBuild. We were tasked with preparing the dry fire workshop
drawings and construction phase project.
The project consisted of two sites (or stages) comprising
four towers, each offering a total of 474 premium waterfront
apartments with parking.
The team faced some special requirements by Fire and Rescue
New South Wales on the Fire Engineering Brief Questionnaire
and Fire Engineering Report. We also had to work with a
continuously evolving and developing Fire Engineering Report,
which affected the general building layout and final design.
Large basements interconnected each of the towers, which
in case of emergency called for a unique solution to deal with
the physical size of such a space. Notably, the large openplan
basement are and plant rooms distorted sound and
compromised speech intelligibility.
Further, each tower required individual sub Fire Indicator Panels
(FIP) and independent fire callout systems.
Sparks+Partners resolved the issues for the client by modifying
the smoke detection and EWIS (emergency warning and
intercom system) design to align with the requirements of the
fire brigade. Each lobby was provided with individual panels to
provide safe and independent operation for that tower.
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 18

PROJECTS
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 19

TWENTY SIXTEEN
HIGHLIGHTS
+ + Automatic Smoke Detection
Systems design
+ + Main fire indicator panels and
tower sub fire indicator panels
+ + Sound system and
intercommunication system for
emergency purposes
+ + Main emergency control panels
and tower sub emergency
control panels
+ + Penetration drawings
TEAM
+ + Paul De Las Alas –
Lead Senior Fire Services
Engineer
+ + Leon Dimino –
Project Director
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 20

PROJECTS
PROJECT
DETAILS
Morton Street
Parramatta NSW 2150
Western Sydney
ProBuild
Precision Fire
Protection Services
Turner Architects
82,500m 2
area
30%
complete
Images source Turner Architects
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 21

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
2016 WSABE
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
WESTERN SYDNEY AWARDS FOR BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
Sparks+Partners won the 2016 Business of the Year, after
scooping awards in two nominated award categories:
Excellence in Small Business and Rising Star at the 26th Annual
Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence (WSABE). As
winners, we progressed to the annual NSW Business Chamber
State awards representing the Western Sydney region.
+ + The Business of the Year Award, sponsored by the
Commonwealth Bank, recognises overall excellence. Winners
are selected by an independent judging committee from
submissions across 10 WSABE award categories.
+ + The Rising Star Award, sponsored by Westfield Parramatta,
recognises new businesses that demonstrate how they have
maintained their positioning from the previous year and their
plans for business growth.
+ + The Excellence in Small Business Award, sponsored by
SBS Radio, recognises small businesses that achieve
significant growth and are able to demonstrate strategies and
processes implemented to attain and sustain growth.
In 2016, the WSABE Awards covered the north and south of
Western Sydney, providing exposure and reach across the
Greater Western Sydney region. Award hosts Parramatta
Chamber of Commerce continually evolve the program, with
the aim of building and growing the third-largest economic
powerhouse in Australia.
The WSABE Awards showcase small, medium and large
businesses that strive to benchmark themselves against the
best in the west. The award also recognises excellence in
innovation, marketing, sustainability, business ethics, customer
service and education, among others.
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 22

CAPABILITY
“There are two ways
to grow; organically
or by acquisition –
we have done both”
LEON DIMINO, MD, SPARKS+PARTNERS
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS
INTERVIEW
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 23

TWENTY SIXTEEN
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 24

PROJECTS
TUGGERAH SUPER CENTRE
LARGE FORMAT RETAIL
TUGGERAH NSW
Tuggerah Super Centre is the Central Coast’s largest home and
lifestyle shopping mall, and is the region’s go-to destination for
home decorating, home electronics, outdoors and other lifestyle
goods. It also has a food court and kids club.
The development comprises two distinct buildings. The
first was a Bunnings Warehouse hardware store, which was
refurbished and extended to comply with Bunnings fitout, with
in-store services upgraded to meet authority standards.
The second was the homemaker retail area, extending over
two levels, which had to be completely modernised to meet the
demands of modern shoppers.
Sparks+Partners started with a series of site investigations
including compliance reviews and service capacity checks.
While the fire service complied back when the building was
constructed in the 1980s, it was due for a substantial upgrade to
bring them in line with current standards.
Hydraulic services had to be upgraded, including the addition of
natural gas for food tenants. This included installing provisional
trade waste stacks and points to the proposed tenant layout, as
well as water, all while maximising flexibility for any future uses.
A crucial factor was that the centre had to continue trading
while all staged constructions works were finished. We designed
the services so that installation was completed section by
section, allowing the retail areas to operate in different zones
throughout the construction.
To support this challenge, Sparks+Partners implemented
systematic coordination, quality assurance measures and
thorough documentation, regularly revised and calibrated
against the project timeline.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 25

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
HIGHLIGHTS
+ + Site Investigation of both
hydraulic and fire services
+ + Check capacities of the services
+ + Upgrade services to meet
current authority requirements
and client brief for tenancies
+ + Document the services
+ + Assist in tender evaluation
+ + Certification of our design
+ + Site queries during the works
+ + Site quality control inspections
TEAM
+ + Garey Sparks –
Project Engineer
+ + Morgan Walter –
Quality Assurance
+ + Cathy Duncan –
Document Control
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 26

PROJECTS
PROJECT
DETAILS
Corner Wyong Road
and Bryant Drive
Tuggerah NSW 2259
Central Coast
Pluim Constructions
Buchan Group Architects
$14 million
construction
90%
complete
Image source Pluim Constructions
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 27

TWENTY SIXTEEN
WHO'S THE
FIRE STARTER?
WELCOME, PAUL DE LAS ALAS
Fire Protection Systems (FPS) are a critical and specialised field of
services engineering. Sparks+Partners takes this niche field seriously.
In 2016 we established a division dedicated to servicing projects that
require detailed input and advice regarding suppression and detection
FPS. Our fire team combine deemed-to-satisfy design with industry
best practice, and are committed to working in partnership from the
start, developing the right solution for clients every time.
Heading up our new Fire division is Paul De Las Alas, who comes
to Sparks+Partners with 18 years of experience in the construction
industry in Australia and abroad. Ten of these years have been
dedicated to the Australian fire industry. Paul‘s last role was at
another consulting engineering firm, where he was involved in fire
services design, documentation and consulting on projects including
commercial, industrial, defence, education, residential and the arts.
Paul's combined experience and qualifications speak for themselves.
He holds a Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, is well versed in
AutoCAD and Hyena Program, and is a member of Engineers Australia
and Fire Protection Association of Australia.
Sparks+Partners are excited to have such a talented specialist join
our team. Paul offers unique insights and ideas in fire services design
as well as sprinkler systems, detection systems, hydrant systems and
NFPA/FM systems.
By collaborating closely with architects early in the process, we
can identify any potential issues concerning fire systems. Aligning
ourselves with fire safety engineers ensures our systems design
supports your brief. This reduces the likelihood of unforeseen costs,
and giving clients access to alternative and innovative design practices.
Sparks+Partners now also offer fire systems assessment, audits on
existing buildings, and reporting on system compliance to the building’s
original standards. Further recommendations are tabled to provide the
client with a clear understanding of their facility, and where upgrades or
compliance needs to be achieved.
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 28

CAPABILITY
FIRE SPECIALITIES
+ + Industrial warehouses (ESFR)
+ + Commercial and office fitout
+ + Retail and shopping centres
+ + Residential units and high rise buildings
DESIGN CAPABILITIES
+ + National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA)
+ + Australian Standards (AS)
+ + Factory Mutual (FM)
WET FIRE SERVICES
+ + Fire sprinkler and drencher systems
+ + Combined hydrant-sprinkler systems
+ + Gas and foam suppression systems
+ + Fire hydrant and hose reel systems
+ + Deluge fire systems
+ + Protection system assessment and audits
PAUL
DE LAS ALAS
FIRE
SERVICES
TEAM LEADER
BE CIVIL
TMIEAUST
FPAA MEMBER
Black,
no sugar
DRY FIRE SERVICES
+ + Fire and smoke hazard detection
+ + Building occupant warning systems
+ + Multi-point aspirating smoke detection
+ + Portable fire extinguishers and blankets
+ + Beam detection systems
+ + Detection system assessment and audits
+ + Sound systems and intercom systems
for emergency purposes
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 29

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
TINY HOMES
TO BIGHEARTED
SPECIAL CAPABILITIES REQUIRED
Whether large or small, businesses can be frenetic places and
Sparks+Partners has its fair share of madness. Tight schedules,
projects flying across desks and sometimes late nights are all part of
the routine. It can be easy to get caught up in all the hype, so when
we were approached to donate our time and skills to a great cause,
it wasn't hard to stop the grind and start engineering for those less
fortunate. The Tiny Homes Foundation needed our help.
Tiny Homes is a not for profit organisation dedicated to socially,
environmentally and economically sustainable housing and support for
people experiencing homelessness. It also seeks new ways to address
Australia's growing affordable housing crisis through its Tiny Home
villages, developed in partnership with state and local government. The
Tiny Homes prototype includes a common space with amenities and
meeting facilities for welfare and education services.
Sparks+Partners provided the hydraulic engineering design services at
zero cost. Works consisted of stormwater pipe drainage, roof drainage,
down pipe design and overland flow paths for a local Tiny Homes site.
Contributing was an enjoyable and enriching exercise, and we look
forward to seeing the village up and running and making a difference.
In a separate initiative, Sparks+Partners sent a staffer to speak at
the Skilled Migrant Work Experience Program graduation event, run
by Parramatta College. The college has been at the forefront of local
community education for over 30 years, and has designed a course
to help migrants navigate the workforce. Graduates got candid and
insightful tips on doing business and finding a job in Australia from
Leon, and further got to probe him at a Q&A session.
When we're unable donate our time, Sparks+Partners donates dollars
to causes dear to our hearts. Some of the charities we've supported
include the bigHEARTED Challenge for heart research and clinical
cardiology at Westmead. Meanwhile, the Property Industry Foundation
Sydney Tour de PIF helps at risk and homeless young people and
the Prince of Wales Hospital Foundation, promoting innovation and
excellence in patient care, research, education and health.
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 30

CAPABILITY
tinyhomesfoundation.org.au
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 31

TWENTY SIXTEEN
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 32

PROJECTS
ASHFIELD CENTRAL
RESIDENTIAL AND RETAIL SQUARE
ASHFIELD NSW
Ashfield Central is a reimagining of one of inner western
Sydney’s most vibrant retail precincts. When complete, it will
offer a large selection of permanent and temporary residential
accommodation near Ashfield Station, all with easy access to
the rejuvenated local streetscape.
The mixed-use facility adjoins the buzzing city hub of Ashfield
Mall, and comprises retail space, parking and 101 multi-level
residential units with 135 resident parking spaces. The site’s
trio of elevated residential blocks includes a 10-storey tower
of 67 serviced apartments, facing a forecourt on Liverpool
Road. Ashfield Central expands the original mall’s capacity by
annexing three new retail spaces, which involved demolition of
the dated existing premises. It features new roof deck parking
and a long-day care centre with capacity for 100 children.
Sparks+Partners was directly engaged by Soneta Plumbing,
working under the main D&C, Ceerose for end client, Abacus
Ashfield Mall Property. We provided detailed designs for the
hydraulic services on this intensive and extensive development.
Due to the project’s size and complexity, substantial
coordination was required for the architectural and structural
design, and the team could not be certain of success until works
started onsite. On top of the high-risk timeline was the team’s
awareness that any oversight would equate to delays directly
impacting the critical construction phase.
The design team took a bold initiative, going above the specified
requirements and using Revit 3D modelling and Navisworks
coordination software to develop and produce the requested
hydraulic designs. As a result of this quick thinking, not only
did we provide a best-fit solution, we could also showcase the
advantages of using BIM on time-sensitive, large-scale projects.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 33

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
HIGHLIGHTS
+ + Preparation of design and
workshop drawings and
specification
+ + Sewer main design
+ + Sanitary drainage
+ + Grease and trade
waste drainage
+ + Sanitary plumbing
+ + Downpipes
+ + Cold water and fire hose reels
+ + Hot and warm water services
+ + Water storage tanks
+ + Natural gas service
+ + Sanitary drainage pumps
+ + Preparation of work as executed
drawings and operation and
maintenance manuals
TEAM
+ + Bruno Lara –
Lead Designer, BIM manager
+ + Leon Dimino –
Project Director
+ + Mounir Azar –
Senior Hydraulic Revit Modeller
+ + Joseph Semaan –
Hydraulic CAD Manager
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 34

PROJECTS
PROJECT
DETAILS
Liverpool Road
Ashfield NSW 2131
Inner West Sydney
Ceerose Property Group
Soneta Plumbing
JPR Architects
$20 million
construction
6,464m²
area
90%
complete (design)
Image source JPR Architects
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 35

TWENTY SIXTEEN
WELCOME
ADDITIONS
MOGAN ON CIVIL
MORGAN
WALTER
CIVIL
ENGINEERING
MANAGER
BE (CIVIL &
ENVIRONMENT)
MEEM MIEAUST
Hot chocolate
2016 has been a year of change and
growth for the civil engineering division at
Sparks+Partners.
The Civil division welcomed three new
members to team:
+ + Benjamin Barrett (Senior Civil Engineer)
+ + Carlo Canuto (Graduate Engineer)
+ + Danya Leiva (graduate Engineer)
All three are settling in well, and bringing
their individual skillsets and energies to the
team while helping deliver quality designs on
committed projects.
We farewelled one of our original starters,
Chris Veleski, who has moved on to expand
his engineering skills in other areas.
While we were sad to say goodbye, we wish
him well in his future endeavours and look
forward to seeing him out in the industry.
We have continued to expand our skills in
3D modelling software by holding in-house
training for civil site design.
This software is an add-in to AutoCAD and
Civil 3D, and complements our 12D, Civil 3D
and REVIT modelling packages.
We are looking forward to the year ahead,
with ongoing in-house training to expand on
our skills in bulk earthworks, drainage, roads,
pavements and retaining wall design.
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 36

TECHNOLOGY
DESIGN AND
BIM UPDATE
FROM BRUNO
With Bruno at the helm the real-world
application of BIM can now be harnessed
at its full potential when driven by one of
our skilled team members. The true power
of BIM is that it helps solve real-world
challenges, in real detail and in real time.
Read how Sparks+Partners solved an
everyday problem using Revit/BIM.
+ + Problem Meter cupboard designs are
traditionally provided as flat 2D drawings
that lack sufficient, practical information
for tradespeople onsite. What works on
paper often doesn’t translate in reality,
causing confusion and delays.
+ + Solution Create a simple and intuitive
method to improve meter cupboard
installations and provide comprehensive
design details to people on the ground.
Sparks+Partners now automatically
supplements conventional 2D AutoCAD
drawings with tested 3D Revit/BIMenhanced
meter cupboard models.
+ + Result Integrating 3D Revit/BIM to our
meter cupboard models has reduced
instances of inadequate designs that
don’t fit or function at the point of
installation, when time is critical. By
simulating realistic spaces, we can
provide tradespeople with more practical
real-world visual information, increasing
productivity and cost benefits.
BRUNO
LARA
DIRECTOR
CERT IV ENG
DRAFTING –
3D DRAFTING
CERT IV
BUILDING
CONSTRUCTION
REVIT & MEP
APPROVED
Cappuccino,
two sugars
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 37

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 38

PROJECTS
REECE PLUMBING & BATHROOMS
DISTRIBUTION CENTRE
PEMULWUY NSW
Reece is Australia’s leading supplier of plumbing and bathroom
products. Following significant growth in the construction
industry, the company needed to overhaul its warehouse facility.
Sparks+Partners was engaged by Prime Constructions as the
D&C for developer, Dexus Property Group. We provided detailed
design services for the civil and hydraulic components of the
project. These included bulk earthworks, finished levels grading,
stormwater drainage for the civil engineering component, sewer,
water supply and fire services for the hydraulic component.
Two main challenges affected the civil design. The site was
constrained by having a set stormwater connection invert level,
and needing to minimise the importation of fill. This meant that
bulk earthworks were undertaken in two stages, the first under
the direct instruction of the developer and the second stage by
the design and construction team.
Adding to the challenge of the bulk earthworks, the initial
estimated volumes were based on an old survey. This meant we
had to obtain compliance surveys to check against the design
and original survey, even as the first stage of earthworks had
started. Our check was then provided back to the developer and
D&C to adjust contract amounts for the earthworks.
To meet the constraints of the stormwater and reduce fill, we
had to design the stormwater pipe drainage to fall at a minimum
grade of 0.5 per cent. The Civil team modelled the proposed
drainage network in detail, using DRAINS to confirm pipe sizes,
overland flows and the overall adequacy.
Sparks+Partners modelling demonstrated that the system
would work efficiently in storm events up to and including the
1 per cent Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP), including a
tolerance for blockages.
SPARKS+PARTNERS 39

TWENTY SIXTEEN
HIGHLIGHTS
+ + Site area was approximately
36,000 square metres
+ + Warehouse and office
area of approximately
19,980 square metres
+ + Approximately 1,000 metres of
stormwater pipe
TEAM
+ + Morgan Walter –
Project Engineer
+ + Chris Veleski – Design Engineer
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 40

PROJECTS
PROJECT
DETAILS
Litton Close
Pemulwuy NSW 2145
Western Sydney
Reece Limited
Dexus Property Group
Prime Constructions
36,000m 2
area
100%
complete
Image source NettletonTribe Architects
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 41

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 42

TECHNOLOGY
NAVISWORKS
WORKS
PROJECT IN 5D
Project review software such as Navisworks by Autodesk
enables construction professionals like engineers, architects,
and designers to holistically review integrated models and data
with clients to gain better control over project outcomes.
Furthermore it helps anticipate and reduce problems before
construction starts by detecting, identifying and managing real
and potential clashes more effectively.
Navisworks lets Sparks+Partners and clients simulate
construction scheduling in 5D, superimposing 3D modelling
and design on time and cost. We can synthesise these five
dimensions to visually communicate and analyse project
activities and minimise delays and sequencing problems.
Employing the flexibility of 5D lets us import data from other
project management software where it can be dynamically
linked to our in-house schedules and models. 5D also assists in
confirming task viability from the outset by connecting model
geometry to both times and costs.
The main advantage for any team, is that Navisworks allows
multiple parties to simultaneously combine design and
construction data in a single model. This unified perspective
and transparent interface provides complex information to each
contributor in a digestible and relevant format regardless of the
stage or type of works being viewed.
Extending the whole-project view to all stakeholders actively
encourages team work throughout the design and construct
process. Communicating design intent and developing
compelling 3D animations and imagery from initial concept
to construction, completion and client sign-off, is an efficient
collaboration tool that has become invaluable to our practice.
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 43

TWENTY SIXTEEN
ON-THE-LINE
S+P HIT THE SOCIAL SCENE
INSTA-TWITS
Finding a bit of spare time and using some nifty smartphone
handling, Sparks+Partners have managed to hit the social scene
in the past couple of months.
We're now on Instagram and Twitter and are busy exploring how
it all works and where we sit in the digital space.
In the meantime, why not heart, like, share, post, react, emoji
and follow us. We'd love to have you in our circle.
You've gotta have a montage...
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 44

TECHNOLOGY
TWITTER @SPARKSENGINEERING AND
INSTAGRAM @SPARKSANDPARTNERS
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 45

SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
INTERCHANGE
Multiple warehouse buildings within
Goodman Estate in Erskine Park
MONTE SAINT ANGELO
College expansion with performing arts
studios, theatre and classrooms located in
Miller Street, North Sydney
HOLDEN CASTLE HILL
Showroom, external display,
workshop and pre-delivery
building on Victoria Avenue
BLUE STAR LOGISTICS
30,000m² distribution
warehouse located in
John Morphett Place,
Erskine Park
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 46
MAYO
Warehouse
and offices in
Moorebank

DHL OAKDALE 1C
Warehouse facility with
office at Oakdale Central
precinct, Horsley Park
PROJECTS
BREVILLE MINTO
Warehouse and office facility of 20,000m²
located within Goodman Estate at Minto
COL CRAWFORD
Showroom and pre-delivery
workshop located on
Pittwater Road, Brookvale
SWIRE COLD STORAGE
Stage 3 of a major cold
storage facility located at
Lyn Parade, Prestons
NISSAN CASTLE HILL
Showroom, external display and
workshop facilities on Victoria Avenue
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 47

TWENTY SIXTEEN
FROM LEON
12 MONTHS IN 12 PARAGRAPHS
TAKING STOCK
In 2016 we've had to take stock: assess where we are at and where we
are heading. I wanted to reflect back on our journey thus far.
Back in 2013, Bruno, Morgan and I started River Consulting Engineers.
Initially we each looked after our own discipline: hydraulics, fire, civil
and stormwater, and BIM, Revit and CAD. For the first six months,
we worked from a kitchen table in one of our homes, using just three
laptops and a single A3 printer.
The following year, after much discussion, financial planning and
negotiation, River Consulting Engineers purchased GJ Sparks &
Partners, which had over 26 years’ experience in the hydraulics
industry. The newly formed Sparks+Partners was now 10 people
strong. We took up residence in a proper Parramatta office with
meeting rooms, administration and support staff, five parking spaces
and even a company car.
From that point we have grown at a rate we could never have predicted.
Growing isn't always easy, and regardless of where we find ourselves
we look to five key foundation words. We call them the five ‘S’
strategies: 1 Survive, 2 Stabilise, 3 Service, 4 Skill set and 5 Succession.
Initially our financial plan was simply to stay afloat and survive. We took
on any work that came our way, and competed with the most minimal
overheads possible. It was bare bones stuff.
Following the merge, stabilise became the new objective. We inherited
staff, managers, projects and clients. This focus on stability ensured a
smooth transition that would keep the business ticking.
Once the boat was sailing straight, our next phase was to lift the quality
of our service. This included changing the way we presented ourselves
and our products. We updated the brand identity, rolled out training,
redesigned the office and reached out to clients past and present.
In October, we launched our first customer survey and are looking
forward to learning about our business from your perspective. The
responses are flowing in and we thank you for your time and feedback.
A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 48

REVIEW
More recently we've focused on our
skillset, with the objective of becoming a
one-stop-engineering-shop. We seek to
help clients get everything done in single
seamless motion. It's a “do you want fries
with that” approach. Last year we added
civil engineering, and more recently wet
and dry fire engineering services have been
introduced to complement our already
proven hydraulic engineering record.
As we are still focusing our energies
on service and skillset, developing a
succession plan is our next big goal. It feels
like a heavy task but we know it will ensure
we build a harmonious team that supports
our skills as we continue to evolve.
So, with our feet set firmly within the
industry, we foresee this set-up being the
backbone of success in the years to come.
Our breakneck and fortunate transition did
not come without hard work, setbacks and
hurdles. Regardless, we constantly strive to
maintain the quality and service that we are
known for, and pledge to carry it in to our
next exciting phase.
LEON
DIMINO
MANAGING
DIRECTOR
DIP ENG
(HYDRAULIC)
CERT IV
PROJECT
MANAGEMENT
CERT IV FIRE
TECHNOLOGY
AHSCA FULL
MEMBER
Flat white,
no sugar
SPARKS+PARTNERS PAGE 49

THANK YOU
IT'S BEEN A GREAT YEAR...
GREETINGS TO ALL
Sparks+Partners would like to sincerely thank our growing
network of clients and supporters for their loyalty to our
business. We appreciate the opportunity your continued
patronage gives us. We greatly value your trust and confidence,
and hope to repay it by delivering the reliable, quality service
you’ve come to know and expect.
It is only with the unwavering contribution of our brilliant
colleagues that we can evolve, create and learn. We thank the
supportive families of our star staff and each team member
for their hard work, (sometimes) long hours and fine attitude
throughout the year.
We send our warmest thoughts and best wishes, a wonderful
holiday and a very happy New Year. Looking forward to working
with you in the future.
Morgan Walter
Leon Dimino
Bruno Lara
YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 50

TWENTY SIXTEEN
A YEAR IN REVIEW
SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU
This is the second edition of our annual review, giving you a
light and useful insight into the year that has been and with a
focus on our people, capabilities, technologies and projects.
GJ Sparks & Partners and River Consulting Engineers merged
in early 2014 to create Sparks+Partners Consulting Engineers.
Our strengths lie in our rich history and expertise in quality
engineering, blended with innovation, technology and drive.
We have fused seasoned practice and youthful energy, with
each team member bringing their own unique skills and
strengths to the company. Guiding the company is a fresh,
resourceful and qualified leadership team.
We specialise in hydraulic, stormwater, environmental
engineering, civil engineering and fire services, underpinned
by next-generation 2D AutoCAD and 3D BIM/Revit design.
Our professional team has experience across a range of
engineering and construction projects. Combined with a
proven track record in documentation and support, this
equips us to handle any type of development.
Sparks+Partners adopt a hands-on approach from concept
to completion. We only allocate the highest-calibre people
to suit our client needs, with the aim to meet the individual
requirements and challenges of every project.
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SPARKSENGINEERING
LIKE US ON INSTAGRAM @SPARKSANDPARTNERS
PO BOX 979 OR LEVEL 1, 91 GEORGE STREET, PARRAMATTA NSW 2150
CONTACT 02 9891 5033 OR EMAIL ADMIN@SPARKSANDPARTNERS.COM.AU