Case Study: Securing Melbourne’s Gas Supply – Q-Main’s High-Security Fencing Solution at Wollert Gas Site

 

Case Study: Securing Melbourne’s Gas Supply – Q-Main’s High-Security Fencing Solution at Wollert Gas Site

Overview

The APA Wollert Gas Site is a key piece of infrastructure in Victoria’s energy network, playing a crucial role in the safe and reliable supply of gas to Melbourne. As a major gas distribution hub, the site’s security is paramount to ensuring uninterrupted supply and protecting critical assets from potential threats.

To strengthen perimeter security and integrate essential surveillance infrastructure, APA Group partnered with Q-Main to design, supply, and install 1km of high-security fencing. The project required a meticulous approach to address security threats, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience while ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

The Challenge: Protecting Critical Infrastructure & Energy Security

As one of the most vital energy distribution sites in Victoria, any security breach at Wollert Gas Site could pose a significant risk to gas supply continuity, impacting households, businesses, and industries across Melbourne. This made the project a high-priority security upgrade requiring precision, efficiency, and strict adherence to regulatory standards.

Key challenges included:

🔸 Stringent Security & Compliance Requirements

  • The security fencing had to meet APA Group’s high-risk site standards and ensure compliance with industry regulations for energy infrastructure protection.
  • The solution needed to be tamper-resistant, with integrated security features to support surveillance systems and real-time monitoring.

🔸 Infrastructure Integration & Future-Proofing

  • The fencing installation had to incorporate electrical and communication conduits to enable the deployment of security cameras, motion sensors, and access control systems.
  • The infrastructure needed to support future technological upgrades without requiring extensive modifications.

🔸 Site Logistics & Operational Continuity

  • As an active gas distribution facility, work had to be carefully managed to prevent disruptions to operations.
  • Strict access protocols were required to ensure safety and avoid interference with gas transmission activities.

🔸 Challenging Ground Conditions

  • During excavation, massive underground rock formations were encountered, requiring specialist excavation techniques to avoid delays or compromising the structural integrity of the fence foundations.

The Solution: A Comprehensive High-Security Perimeter System

To overcome these challenges, Q-Main implemented a turnkey perimeter security solution that not only reinforced the site’s defences but also enhanced surveillance and operational efficiency.

1. High-Security Fencing & Access Control

✅ 1km of Class 3 Weld Mesh Fencing with Razor Wire – A high-strength perimeter barrier to deter unauthorised access and withstand external threats.
✅ Steel Fibre-Reinforced Concrete Plinth – Providing a solid foundation to support the fencing structure and prevent tampering.
✅ Access Control Upgrades – Installation of:

  • 11 personal access gates for authorised personnel.
  • 7 dual-access vehicle gates to regulate traffic flow.
  • Automated sliding cantilever gate for secure and controlled primary access.

2. Integrated Security Infrastructure

✅ Built-In Electrical & Communication Conduits – Embedded within the concrete plinth, enabling the seamless deployment of:



  • CCTV security cameras for 24/7 surveillance.\
  • Motion detectors and alarm systems to enhance intrusion detection.
  • Secure communication networks for real-time site monitoring.




3. Overcoming Ground Challenges & Ensuring Stability

✅ Specialised Excavation & Rock Removal – Q-Main deployed heavy-duty excavation equipment and rock-breaking techniques to safely remove car-sized boulders without compromising the integrity of the site.
✅ Structural Engineering Solutions – Adjustments to the fence base design ensured long-term stability and durability, even in the most challenging terrain.

4. Minimal Disruption, Maximum Efficiency

✅ Phased Construction Approach – Work was carefully scheduled to avoid interference with daily gas distribution operations, ensuring that Melbourne’s gas supply remained uninterrupted throughout the project.
✅ Strict Safety & Compliance Measures – Adherence to ISO 45001 safety protocols, with all work conducted under APA Group’s stringent site security requirements.

The Outcome: A Future-Proofed Security Solution for Critical Infrastructure

Q-Main successfully delivered a highly secure, regulation-compliant perimeter solution that enhances protection, surveillance, and operational resilience for one of Melbourne’s most critical energy assets.

Key Benefits:

📌 Reinforced Site Security – A robust barrier against unauthorised access, protecting gas distribution infrastructure from external threats.
📌 Enhanced Surveillance Capabilities – Seamless integration of CCTV, access control, and security monitoring to detect and deter threats in real-time.
📌 Operational Continuity – Careful planning ensured that gas supply remained unaffected throughout construction.
📌 Regulatory Compliance – The solution met APA Group’s strict security and infrastructure protection standards, reinforcing its commitment to national energy security.

Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility

Beyond security, Q-Main incorporated sustainable practices to minimise environmental impact during the project:
🌱 Protecting Endangered Species – Construction was modified to safeguard the habitat of the Golden Sun Moth caterpillar, ensuring biodiversity preservation.
♻️ Eco-Friendly Waste Management – Soil testing was conducted to responsibly manage the disposal of clean and contaminated waste materials.

Why Q-Main?

With over 20 years of experience in high-security infrastructure solutions, Q-Main continues to be a trusted partner for critical energy sites, high-risk facilities, and large-scale utility projects. Our expertise in security fencing, civil works, and infrastructure integration ensures our clients receive future-ready, high-compliance, and security-enhanced solutions.

🔹 Protecting Melbourne’s gas supply requires the highest standards of security and precision – and that’s exactly what we deliver.

💬 Need a tailored security solution for your infrastructure? Contact Q-Main today to discuss your project requirements.

Visit our website: www.qmain.com.au

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