CPB wins RAAF defence contract

CIMIC Group has been contracted by the Department of Defence to undertake work on Royal Australian Air Force Bases Curtin and Learmonth in the state’s north.

The group’s subsidiary CPB Contractors was selected by the federal government for early contractor involvement during the development phase of the upgrade projects.

The scope of work includes upgrades to runways, taxiways, parking areas and aeronautical ground lighting, asphalting among other enhancements.

Subject to the completion of the ECI phase tipped for 2024, of which a value has not been provided, a delivery phase will follow, according to CIMIC.

The RAAF Base Curtin is located southeast of Derby while RAAF Base Learmonth, which includes the civilian airport operations, is just south of Exmouth.

“Our relationship with the Department of Defence stretches over decades and we are pleased to continue to be relied upon to deliver infrastructure upgrades for these vital airbases,” CIMIC executive chairman Juan Santamaria said.

“CPB Contractors’ focus as always will be on the safe and certain delivery of Defence’s requirements.”

CPB Contractors have previously delivered upgrade works at RAAF Bases Pearce near Bullsbrook, Amberley in Queensland and Williamtown in New South Wales.

CPB managing director Jason Spears said the company would be applying its past experience to ensure that normal operations would continue without disruption while works were underway.

“Our teams will be supporting the participation of local industry in line with CPB Contractors’ ongoing commitment to building industry capacity and capability through the delivery of major projects, including these two important Defence airbases,” he said.

Earlier this year, Multiplex was appointed managing contractor for the delivery of work for the development phase of the proposed RAAF Curtin redevelopment project.

The $244 million project involved refurbishing and improving infrastructure and facilities across the base in Derby.

It is unclear whether CPB is working with Multiplex, and the contractor has been contacted for comment.