Tassie fibre laying JV misses out on first stage of NBN

Stuart Corner
Thursday, 24 September 2009 10:44

IT Industry - Strategy

Conroy has also been backing Cleanfast: he "officially launched" the first Marais-Lucas Cleanfast fibre installation machine in May at the FTTH Council Asia Pacific conference in Melbourne.

According to Lucas: "Marais produces a range of trenchless technology and installation systems which are, on average, ten times faster than traditional open-cut installation methods and less than one third the cost. The joint venture company, Marais-Lucas Technologies Pty Limited, intends to offer Marais' network installation technologies to the Australasian market; with particular reference to the proposed broadband roll-out proposed by the Australian government." The company will rent out machinery and engage in total service contracting solutions as well as partner in concessions for construction and operation of local loops.

"Combining Lucas' proven project management, linear installation (pipeline) experience and trenchless technology with Marais' mechanised systems and telecoms expertise, will introduce to the Australian market a skill set and equipment base which is unmatched by any other. Marais-Lucas will offer this expertise to those involved in the upcoming broadband roll-out. Initial estimates indicate a requirement for more than 100,000 kilometres of trench – which, using a trenchless Marais-Lucas solution is not only quicker and cheaper but more environmentally sound with less disturbance to local communities."

The role of 'local company' Nu Energy (which is headquartered in Melbourne and which counts among its backers the Victorian Government) in the project was not spelt out. According to its web site the company provides solar power and solar hot water systems to the business and consumer market. It claims to be "the largest supplier of solar electricity systems to the residential market on a national basis." iTWire was not immediately able to obtain further information.