Deep Dive: The Efficiencies of 3D Scanning Surveying

    The utilisation of 3D scanning technologies in surveying provides high-resolution, millimetre-level accuracy, while reducing errors that may occur with manual measurements. The lasers can also capture hard-to-reach areas of a site, thereby eliminating the risk of missing data.

    The technology’s incredible capacity for accuracy can also be implemented to detect deviations from plans early in the development process and reduce costly and time-consuming rework or amendments.

    2: Improved Collaboration and Communication

    When integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D scanned surveys provide data that can be easily accessed by stakeholders, vastly improving the coordination of a project and minimising the risk of conflicting information.

    The accessibility of the data collected also allows for all parties working on a development to monitor its progress and accuracy to plans. In making the development process more collaborative, 3D Scanning Surveying encourages more informed decision-making, leading to better outcomes for the client and community.

    3D scanned sites can be produced as “digital twins”, allowing for deeper analysis of site conditions, more strategic planning and future provide reference for a proposed development.

    3: Saving Time and Money

    3D Scanning Surveying reduces the time taken to undergo traditional surveying methods to mere minutes, reducing field time and project timelines. Where a larger site may require weeks of surveying labour, 3D Scanning Surveying minimises this timeframe, lowering the cost of labour and travel manual surveying carries. .

    How does BRS use 3D Scanning Surveying, and how can this benefit my project?

    At BRS, we utilise GeoSLAM’s Horizon to provide our clients with exceptional 3D scanning surveys. This outstanding tool enables us to survey larger areas more efficiently – significantly reducing time, field costs, and travel costs.

    GeoSLAM Horizon captures over 300,000 scanner points persecond, ideal for surveying areas with difficult or complex spaces such as building interiors or fa√ßades. GeoSLAM Horizon can reach areas other scanners cannot – such as inside roof cavities and combined spaces from 100 metres away.

    GeoSLAM technologies are used at BRS for a wide range of projects, including:

    • Digital building information modelling (BIM)
    • Infrastructure and asset management
    • Volumetric surveys
    • Emergency response
    • Forestry surveys

    Our clients can expect faster data capture and enhanced data visualisation.

    See GeoSLAM in Action

    Need assistance with an upcoming project?

    Our survey team has extensive experience providing spatial solutions and with our latest addition of GeoSLAM, we can provide service with reliable accuracy, precision, and immediacy.

    Whether you require design, construction services, or operating and maintaining an asset, our survey team is well-resourced and positioned to assist.

    For any assistance with surveying projects, please contact your local BRS office or email mail@brs.com.au.

    What is 3D Scanning Surveying?

    3D laser scanning utilises millions of measurement points and 3D images to render detailed and accurate digital survey models of buildings, roads, structures and sites. This technology is cutting-edge and boasts the ability to collect incredibly precise geospatial data, allowing users to survey larger areas faster and more efficiently.

    What are the primary efficiencies of 3D Scanning Surveying?

    This revolutionary technology provides numerous benefits to the surveying, planning, design and construction stages of a project, including:

    1: Accuracy and Precision

      The utilisation of 3D scanning technologies in surveying provides high-resolution, millimetre-level accuracy, while reducing errors that may occur with manual measurements. The lasers can also capture hard-to-reach areas of a site, thereby eliminating the risk of missing data.

      The technology’s incredible capacity for accuracy can also be implemented to detect deviations from plans early in the development process and reduce costly and time-consuming rework or amendments.

      2: Improved Collaboration and Communication

      When integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D scanned surveys provide data that can be easily accessed by stakeholders, vastly improving the coordination of a project and minimising the risk of conflicting information.

      The accessibility of the data collected also allows for all parties working on a development to monitor its progress and accuracy to plans. In making the development process more collaborative, 3D Scanning Surveying encourages more informed decision-making, leading to better outcomes for the client and community.

      3D scanned sites can be produced as “digital twins”, allowing for deeper analysis of site conditions, more strategic planning and future provide reference for a proposed development.

      3: Saving Time and Money

      3D Scanning Surveying reduces the time taken to undergo traditional surveying methods to mere minutes, reducing field time and project timelines. Where a larger site may require weeks of surveying labour, 3D Scanning Surveying minimises this timeframe, lowering the cost of labour and travel manual surveying carries. .

      How does BRS use 3D Scanning Surveying, and how can this benefit my project?

      At BRS, we utilise GeoSLAM’s Horizon to provide our clients with exceptional 3D scanning surveys. This outstanding tool enables us to survey larger areas more efficiently – significantly reducing time, field costs, and travel costs.

      GeoSLAM Horizon captures over 300,000 scanner points persecond, ideal for surveying areas with difficult or complex spaces such as building interiors or fa√ßades. GeoSLAM Horizon can reach areas other scanners cannot – such as inside roof cavities and combined spaces from 100 metres away.

      GeoSLAM technologies are used at BRS for a wide range of projects, including:

      • Digital building information modelling (BIM)
      • Infrastructure and asset management
      • Volumetric surveys
      • Emergency response
      • Forestry surveys

      Our clients can expect faster data capture and enhanced data visualisation.

      See GeoSLAM in Action

      Need assistance with an upcoming project?

      Our survey team has extensive experience providing spatial solutions and with our latest addition of GeoSLAM, we can provide service with reliable accuracy, precision, and immediacy.

      Whether you require design, construction services, or operating and maintaining an asset, our survey team is well-resourced and positioned to assist.

      For any assistance with surveying projects, please contact your local BRS office or email mail@brs.com.au.

      Kings Forest: A Community-Centric Development

      The development has been designed with sustainability in mind and is set to feature 330 hectares of wildlife reserve, including 70,000 new koala trees planned to be planted to preserve populations of native wildlife in the area. Moreover, Kings Forest will offer extensive cycle paths and pedestrian infrastructure, promoting sustainable travel and transportation through environmentally sensitive design.  

      The project also prioritises the inclusion of local culture and heritage, ensuring that the northern rivers’ rich traditions and natural beauty remain a central part of the area’s identity. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration with community stakeholders, Kings Forest seeks to become a thriving hub that contributes positively to the social and economic fabric of the northern rivers. 

      With 180 hectares allocated for environmental protection and an additional 200 hectares for the local Council, this project is a monumental investment, injecting over $5 billion into the Tweed Coast’s economy.

      BRS was engaged by Leda Holdings Pty Ltd in August 2023 to provide Principal Certifier services associated with the Kings Forest project. To date this has included the issuance of Subdivision Works Certificates, carrying out compliance inspections and review of quality assurance documents. As a State Significant Development, BRS will also issue the Subdivision Certificates, which will mark a significant milestone for the project and its future residents.

      We are thrilled to help our client’s visions come to fruition and continue to provide our clients with outstanding service to help them succeed in their developmental endeavours. Ongoing collaboration will allow a dream to become a reality for residents of the Northern Rivers. We look forward to continuing to assist towards the completion of a milestone development.

      On the Kings Forest project, Registered Certifier Chris Borg commented;

      “The Kings Forest development is an exciting and challenging project for BRS. The site has no shortage of constraints, however, the highly knowledgeable team made up of the developer, expert consultants, contractors and Tweed Shire Council is one that we are proud to be part of in meeting those challenges and providing a high-quality outcome for the future residents and the local area.”

      How can BRS assist?

      Our experienced team has worked on various other key development sites located in N.S.W, ensuring we are well-resourced and positioned to provide our full range of services for your next project.

      For further information on how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

      The Kings Forest subdivision spans 869 hectares between Bogangar and Cabarita Beach to the south beyond Cudgen Lake, and Cudgen and Kingscliff to the north. It is set to become home to approximately 13,000 new residents in 4,500 new homes in addition to generating thousands of local jobs over the next 20 years. An impressive $720+ million was invested in the local and greater Northern Rivers community, generating over 650 new jobs over the life of the project. Additionally, located just 4 minutes to the north, Tweed Valley Hospital opened in May 2024, representing one of the region’s most substantial capital investments in health and well-being.

      Residents of the region have been vocal about the severe lack of housing in Tweed and surrounding suburbs, thankfully Kings Forest presents significant strides in providing desperately needed housing options. Incoming residents can expect diverse housing options, including detached homes and medium-density solutions supported by existing and planned servicing infrastructure as well as enhanced road networks and public transportation access.  

      The development also boasts a future town centre precinct including retail and commercial spaces as well as a new community library. For families entering the area, Kings Forest is planned to offer a new school, childcare centre, community centre and 22 hectares of recreation areas such as parks and sporting fields.

      The development has been designed with sustainability in mind and is set to feature 330 hectares of wildlife reserve, including 70,000 new koala trees planned to be planted to preserve populations of native wildlife in the area. Moreover, Kings Forest will offer extensive cycle paths and pedestrian infrastructure, promoting sustainable travel and transportation through environmentally sensitive design.  

      The project also prioritises the inclusion of local culture and heritage, ensuring that the northern rivers’ rich traditions and natural beauty remain a central part of the area’s identity. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration with community stakeholders, Kings Forest seeks to become a thriving hub that contributes positively to the social and economic fabric of the northern rivers. 

      With 180 hectares allocated for environmental protection and an additional 200 hectares for the local Council, this project is a monumental investment, injecting over $5 billion into the Tweed Coast’s economy.

      BRS was engaged by Leda Holdings Pty Ltd in August 2023 to provide Principal Certifier services associated with the Kings Forest project. To date this has included the issuance of Subdivision Works Certificates, carrying out compliance inspections and review of quality assurance documents. As a State Significant Development, BRS will also issue the Subdivision Certificates, which will mark a significant milestone for the project and its future residents.

      We are thrilled to help our client’s visions come to fruition and continue to provide our clients with outstanding service to help them succeed in their developmental endeavours. Ongoing collaboration will allow a dream to become a reality for residents of the Northern Rivers. We look forward to continuing to assist towards the completion of a milestone development.

      On the Kings Forest project, Registered Certifier Chris Borg commented;

      “The Kings Forest development is an exciting and challenging project for BRS. The site has no shortage of constraints, however, the highly knowledgeable team made up of the developer, expert consultants, contractors and Tweed Shire Council is one that we are proud to be part of in meeting those challenges and providing a high-quality outcome for the future residents and the local area.”

      How can BRS assist?

      Our experienced team has worked on various other key development sites located in N.S.W, ensuring we are well-resourced and positioned to provide our full range of services for your next project.

      For further information on how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

      The development emphasizes enhancing the region’s growth while preserving its unique character. Kings Forest creates a vibrant, sustainable living environment that was designed to support all aspects important to the Tweed community, including the local environment, health and wellbeing, transportation, education, local businesses and most importantly, its residents. BRS is proud to be involved in such a milestone development that aims to enhance existing community-centred engagement which sits at the heart of the Northern Rivers Region.

      The Kings Forest subdivision spans 869 hectares between Bogangar and Cabarita Beach to the south beyond Cudgen Lake, and Cudgen and Kingscliff to the north. It is set to become home to approximately 13,000 new residents in 4,500 new homes in addition to generating thousands of local jobs over the next 20 years. An impressive $720+ million was invested in the local and greater Northern Rivers community, generating over 650 new jobs over the life of the project. Additionally, located just 4 minutes to the north, Tweed Valley Hospital opened in May 2024, representing one of the region’s most substantial capital investments in health and well-being.

      Residents of the region have been vocal about the severe lack of housing in Tweed and surrounding suburbs, thankfully Kings Forest presents significant strides in providing desperately needed housing options. Incoming residents can expect diverse housing options, including detached homes and medium-density solutions supported by existing and planned servicing infrastructure as well as enhanced road networks and public transportation access.  

      The development also boasts a future town centre precinct including retail and commercial spaces as well as a new community library. For families entering the area, Kings Forest is planned to offer a new school, childcare centre, community centre and 22 hectares of recreation areas such as parks and sporting fields.

      The development has been designed with sustainability in mind and is set to feature 330 hectares of wildlife reserve, including 70,000 new koala trees planned to be planted to preserve populations of native wildlife in the area. Moreover, Kings Forest will offer extensive cycle paths and pedestrian infrastructure, promoting sustainable travel and transportation through environmentally sensitive design.  

      The project also prioritises the inclusion of local culture and heritage, ensuring that the northern rivers’ rich traditions and natural beauty remain a central part of the area’s identity. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration with community stakeholders, Kings Forest seeks to become a thriving hub that contributes positively to the social and economic fabric of the northern rivers. 

      With 180 hectares allocated for environmental protection and an additional 200 hectares for the local Council, this project is a monumental investment, injecting over $5 billion into the Tweed Coast’s economy.

      BRS was engaged by Leda Holdings Pty Ltd in August 2023 to provide Principal Certifier services associated with the Kings Forest project. To date this has included the issuance of Subdivision Works Certificates, carrying out compliance inspections and review of quality assurance documents. As a State Significant Development, BRS will also issue the Subdivision Certificates, which will mark a significant milestone for the project and its future residents.

      We are thrilled to help our client’s visions come to fruition and continue to provide our clients with outstanding service to help them succeed in their developmental endeavours. Ongoing collaboration will allow a dream to become a reality for residents of the Northern Rivers. We look forward to continuing to assist towards the completion of a milestone development.

      On the Kings Forest project, Registered Certifier Chris Borg commented;

      “The Kings Forest development is an exciting and challenging project for BRS. The site has no shortage of constraints, however, the highly knowledgeable team made up of the developer, expert consultants, contractors and Tweed Shire Council is one that we are proud to be part of in meeting those challenges and providing a high-quality outcome for the future residents and the local area.”

      How can BRS assist?

      Our experienced team has worked on various other key development sites located in N.S.W, ensuring we are well-resourced and positioned to provide our full range of services for your next project.

      For further information on how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

      BRS Graduate Program: A Civil Engineer’s Perspective

      Four men standing around a desk with papers on it talking

      Meet Jacob Rodriguez, a Civil Engineer at BRS(BRS), who completed BRS’ Graduate Program after graduating from Western Sydney University.

      Jacob was working part time at BRS whilst studying and jumped at the opportunity to participate in the Graduate Program – seeing it as an opportunity to apply his theoretical knowledge from university practically.

      We asked Jacob a few questions about his experience in the program.

       

      What did you study at Western Sydney University?

      I studied a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) which covered all major engineering domains before I decided on my major.

       

      What made you want to apply for the BRS Graduate Program?

      I began my career with BRSas an undergraduate student, working part time whilst in my final year at university as part of the course work experience requirement.

      I loved every moment working at BRS so when the opportunity presented itself to be part of the graduate program, I took it!

      The program sounded like a great progression into my chosen field, offering the opportunity to take what I had learned at university and apply it practically. It was a unique opportunity to start building my skills and connections in the industry in a structured and supportive environment.

       

      How long is the graduate program? What did it entail?

      The graduate program was completed over the course of one year.  

      During the program I was slowly introduced and guided through different aspects of the civil engineer role to ensure I was confident in each phase before moving onto the next. As I gained more experience, I was provided with more tasks and responsibilities.

      This was a great way to build a solid foundation and ensure I thoroughly understood each aspect.

       

      What were your top 3 learnings from the program?

      1. Teamwork is so important – Nothing happens without teamwork; liaising with fellow team members not only assists with task efficiency but also with knowledge building.
      2. Have confidence to ask questions – There is always someone who has more experience that you can learn from and asking questions is essential to building knowledge.
      3. The importance of effective communication with all stakeholders – This includes fellow employees, directors, team leaders and external clients. Learning effective communication helps keep projects moving, informs project milestones and is essential for working on challenging projects.

       

      How would you rate the program? Would you recommend it to others?

      The program was well put together and stepped me through the different aspects of a civil engineer’s role. I would highly recommend it to anyone who has just graduated and is looking to take the first steps in their career.

       

      What was the process like transitioning from the graduate program to being promoted?

      Being promoted from a graduate to a civil engineer came with more responsibility, larger projects and empowerment to navigate tasks myself with less guidance. The knowledge and experience I gained from the program has allowed me to hit the ground running and set a great foundation for early career success.

       

       

      Interested in participating in the BRS Graduate Program?

      We’re always on the lookout for the next generation of enthusiastic graduates to join our team and would love to hear from you. Find more information about our Graduate Program below:

       

      A day in the life of a Bid Coordinator: Kristy Stephensen

      Bid Coordinator

      In our ‘day in the life’ blog series, we aim to showcase the work of our talented team and help you get to know the faces behind our projects a little better. This month we sat down with Kristy, a bid coordinator and administration officer in our Sydney office, to chat a bit more about the dynamics of her role and her best advice for anyone considering a career in the field.

      Tell us a bit about yourself and what interested you in Bid Coordination and Administration.

      I have always enjoyed supporting teams and working in the background. I got involved with tendering early on in my career as part of a reception role when I lived in Brisbane. I’ve since worked on tenders at other companies. What I like about bid coordination is being able to work with different people in all areas of the business with the goal to win work for the business. When a project is won, it’s a great feeling knowing that the wider team is working on a project that you helped to secure.

      What does a typical workday look like for you and what brings you the most joy in your role?

      When it comes to my role, every day is busy and varied, especially working in a multi-disciplined environment. My day is typically made up of downloading new tenders for the team to review, setting up projects and proposals, completing tender documentation, liaising with clients for submission feedback, administering various online portals, and record keeping and reporting.

      Winning tenders brings me the most joy of course – the sense of satisfaction you feel when your hard work pays off and a tender submission is successful is the best feeling!

      What’s it like being part of BRS’ Administration team?

      It’s great to be part of a team who is really hard working and supportive, and no question is too small.

      Since joining our team, what’s been the most memorable aspect of working at BRS so far?

      Winning the Wollombi Road Project was a particularly special win for the business so that was very rewarding for me. The other (sociable) memorable aspect I have is attending the 2023 BRS conference and watching several of the team get hypnotised – they were so funny and such good sports!

      Looking back at your career, is there anything that’s surprised you about working as a bid coordinator/admin officer?

      When I first started assisting with tenders, the submissions were printed out, put into folders and copies ‘burnt’ onto CD’s. Then they were either couriered or hand delivered to a tender box at the client’s premises. These days they are either uploaded to a portal or emailed. I couldn’t imagine going back to having to print out copies of documentation and compiling them into folders again. Thankful for advances in technology!

      Finally, what advice do you have for anyone considering a career as a Bid Coordinator and Administration Officer?

      If you like administration, are a good communicator and team player, want a challenge and like the idea of helping to win business for your organisation, it’s a great role!

      Want to get to know our team a bit better?

      Check out our other ‘day in the life of’ blogs to learn more about our talented team.