CPB Contractors Engineering Manager Gerard Quigg and Project Manager Dobu Unugueanu recently presented a technical paper at the 2026 joint conference of the Deep Foundation Institute (DFI) and the piling Foundation Specialists Federation (PFSF) in Sydney, showcasing how collaboration across the CIMIC Group can help solve complex engineering challenges.
The paper, Pile Driving in Soft Ground: Measures to Mitigate Impact on Existing Infrastructure, was developed in partnership with EIC Activities and explores ways to better understand and manage the risks associated with pile driving near existing infrastructure in soft ground conditions.
The research combined advanced finite element modelling, full-scale field trials and construction monitoring to investigate lateral ground movements and evaluate mitigation measures including pre-boring, casing and alternative pile solutions.
According to Gerard Quigg, the success of the project was driven by the strengths each organisation brought to the partnership.
"Close collaboration between CPB Contractors and EIC Activities combined advanced technical modelling with construction site trials, transforming analysis into a site-validated solution that verified design inputs and delivered a smarter and more efficient design outcome."
Gerard said EIC Activities provided specialised expertise in advanced engineering analysis, while CPB Contractors contributed practical construction knowledge and project delivery experience.
"Collaboration with EIC Activities was critical because it integrated advanced technical expertise with real-world project experience," Gerard said.
"EIC brought strong research and modelling capability, while CPB provided practical construction insights. This combination ensured the findings were not only technically robust but also directly applicable to project delivery."
As the project progressed, the partnership evolved into a highly integrated way of working, with both teams collaborating closely to test assumptions, refine solutions and align technical findings with on-site realities.
The modelling provided predictive insights that supported decisions around design, sequencing and risk management, helping project teams anticipate potential challenges and optimise project outcomes. Continuous feedback between modelling and field observations ensured theories were tested against real-world conditions, improving confidence in the findings and reducing uncertainty.
Gerard said the project demonstrated the value of bringing together engineering, technical and delivery teams to solve complex challenges.
"This research highlights the strength of leveraging complementary capabilities across the CIMIC Group," he said.
"When teams across the business come together, they combine their expertise, perspectives and strengths to deliver outcomes with greater impact and value."
The project highlights how collaboration, innovation and shared expertise can support safer, more efficient and better-informed infrastructure delivery.
For more on pile driving in soft ground, click here.