Karratha Ranges

Cossill & Webley was engaged to develop a civil infrastructure solution in Karratha that could withstand the region’s extreme weather conditions, including intense tropical cyclones. A key component of our scope was designing a drainage system to manage rare but severe storm events without compromising site safety or functionality. The final network was engineered to accommodate peak runoff volumes while minimising the risk of downstream flooding. To ensure long-term durability, extensive erosion protection measures were integrated throughout the design using armouring techniques, sediment control, and contouring – to withstand both cyclonic downpours and the naturally harsh Pilbara landscape.

Another key focus of the project was the integration of core civil services within a compact and high-activity construction zone. Water, wastewater, power, and communications systems were carefully coordinated through advanced 3D modelling, ensuring spatial efficiency, maintainability, and adaptability for future upgrades. All infrastructure was designed to handle the significant load demands associated with mining operations, including shift change surges, periods of high occupancy, and intensive heavy vehicle movements. This required robust pavement design, service sizing, and infrastructure placement that aligned with both operational needs and construction constraints.

To support the wellbeing of the remote workforce, we also designed a range of communal and recreational facilities, including sports courts, landscaped open spaces to pedestrian networks. These were integrated into the site’s layout with a focus on accessibility, safety, and liveability – delivering a practical, resilient, and people-focused outcome in one of Australia’s most remote locations.