Luke Marks

Carried out critical rigging operations during scheduled power station outages, focusing on the disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of air heater components. Responsibilities included the setup and use of chain blocks, beam clamps, and rigging baskets to safely lift and transfer heavy sections within confined and elevated areas.

Worked from Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) and coordinated closely with crane operators to guide and position large components with precision. Ensured all rigging gear was certified and properly inspected before use. Actively contributed to job hazard assessments and lift plans, following strict site safety protocols and adhering to time-critical shutdown schedules. Demonstrated strong teamwork with boilermakers, fitters, and crane crews to complete high-risk tasks efficiently and safely.

Dragline & Shovel Shutdowns (HVO – Hunter Valley Operations)
Performed high-risk rigging operations during major shutdowns on draglines (including Marion and Bucyrus models) and electric rope shovels at HVO in the Hunter Valley this year as well as in 2023. Involved in the full disassembly and rebuild of critical structural and mechanical components such as A-frames, mast sections, hoist drums, crowd machinery, propel motors, and boom points.

Key tasks included dual crane lifts for oversized or uneven components, precise alignment of load paths, and safe slinging techniques for irregular equipment. Rigged and secured counterweights, propel arms, and tubs using beam clamps, lifting lugs, and load-rated hardware. Coordinated lift plans and load charts with crane operators, often under tight timeframes and in adverse weather conditions.

Oversaw rigging of Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to access hard-to-reach components at height, ensuring compliance with HRW license requirements. Conducted lift assessments, pre-use inspections of all rigging gear (slings, shackles, spreader bars), and implemented effective communication systems for high-visibility, multi-crew tasks.

Maintained a strong safety record through adherence to HVO site protocols, including JHAs, Take 5s, and daily pre-starts. Worked collaboratively with mechanical, electrical, and crane teams to ensure tasks were executed safely, efficiently, and within the shutdown schedule.

CW Pump Outage Works (Eraring Power Station)
Performed critical rigging tasks during major outage works on Circulating Water (CW) pumps at Eraring Power Station. Involved in the removal, transportation, and reinstallation of large pump components, pipe spools, and motors. Responsibilities included detailed lift planning and execution in confined spaces and plant environments.

Worked from Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to access elevated rigging points and attach lifting gear safely. Operated in coordination with crane crews using both 100-tonne slew cranes and Franna cranes for complex and high-risk lifts. Tasks included slinging heavy components, guiding loads, aligning flanges, and ensuring all lifting operations complied with SWMS and HRW licensing requirements.

Conducted rigging inspections and verified all lifting equipment (chain blocks, shackles, slings, spreader bars) was fit for use. Assisted in the development of lift plans and collaborated closely with supervisors, engineers, and crane operators to ensure precision and safety during all stages of the outage.

Demonstrated a strong safety culture by participating in pre-starts, Take 5s, JHAs, and hazard mitigation procedures, while working efficiently to meet tight outage deadlines.

Intermediate Rigger – Reclaimer Shutdown (Mount Thorley Mine – Drew Projects)
Performed critical rigging works on the reclaimer plant at Mount Thorley mine during a major shutdown, employed by Drew Projects. Involved in the disassembly and replacement of key mechanical components, including the bucket wheel, slew bearing, and boom structure.

Executed complex lifts using a 160-tonne mobile crane and Franna, managing dual-lift operations for large and uneven loads. Utilised lifting equipment such as chain blocks, lifting beams, spreader bars, and rated slings to handle heavy parts safely and efficiently. Conducted rigging from Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to reach elevated and restricted-access points on the reclaimer.

Worked closely with crane crews and supervisors to follow engineered lift plans, align mechanical fits, and meet shutdown targets. Adapted quickly to changing lift requirements and site conditions while upholding all rigging and site protocols.

Took an active role in safety by identifying lift hazards, leading spotter duties during critical lifts, and contributing to dynamic risk assessments. Maintained clear communication across crews and ensured compliance with all site safety systems, supporting a strong safety culture and incident-free execution.

Engaged in major outage works at Millmerran Power Station, focusing on the air heater unit during a scheduled shutdown. Duties involved dismantling and reassembling heavy mechanical components, assisting with inspection access, and supporting boiler maintenance crews.

Performed precise rigging tasks using chain blocks, rigging skids, and certified lifting gear to handle ducting sections, access doors, and internal structures of the air heater. Worked from Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to secure and control loads at height and in confined areas. Assisted in crane operations, including lifts with mobile slewing cranes and Frannas for relocating large assemblies and tooling.

Collaborated with fitters, boiler techs, and crane operators to ensure smooth execution of lifts and mechanical change-outs. Reviewed lift documentation and participated in on-site planning to align tasks with the shutdown schedule.

Demonstrated strong risk awareness by carrying out equipment inspections, maintaining clear communication during all lifts, and actively contributing to on-the-job safety procedures such as hazard identification, team briefings, and permit compliance. Supported a safe, efficient, and coordinated team effort across all outage stages.

CW Pump Overhaul (Eraring Power Station)
Involved in critical rigging operations during a major overhaul of the Circulating Water (CW) pumps at Eraring Power Station. Scope of work included dismantling, relocating, and reinstalling large pump housings, drive motors, and pipe sections within tight plant areas and complex layouts.

Utilised Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to access high-level rigging points and safely secure lifting components. Supported heavy-lift operations alongside crane teams using both Franna and 100-tonne slew cranes, coordinating precise movements of large, awkward loads. Key tasks included load control, flange alignment, and safe slinging in accordance with High Risk Work licensing and site safety systems.

Performed pre-use checks and regular inspections on all rigging gear including chain blocks, slings, shackles, and spreader bars. Contributed to lift studies and collaborated with engineers and site leaders to execute planned lifts accurately and on schedule.

Actively reinforced safety standards by taking part in pre-task risk assessments, toolbox talks, and permit systems. Maintained high attention to detail under pressure and delivered results within strict outage timelines while ensuring safe, incident-free performance.

Dragline Overhaul Shutdown (Mount Thorley Coal Mine)
Undertook critical rigging duties during a full mechanical overhaul of a dragline at Mount Thorley coal mine. Worked as part of a multidisciplinary shutdown crew responsible for the safe removal and installation of major components including:

• Boom point
• A-frame
• Hoist and dump ropes
• Walking shoes
• Slew and propel gearboxes
• Tub segments
• Hoist and swing motors
• Main drive motors and bus bars
• Electrical cabinets and associated structural frames

Executed dual-crane lifts using a 160-tonne crawler crane in coordination with a Franna to manage oversized and irregularly shaped components, ensuring proper balance, rotation, and placement in restricted areas. All lifts were conducted in strict accordance with engineered lift plans and site safety protocols.

Performed elevated rigging works from EWPs, rigging and directing loads at height while supporting mechanical crews in disassembly and reassembly tasks. Utilised certified rigging equipment including chain blocks, shackles, spreader bars, lifting beams, and custom rigging setups, all subject to pre-use inspection and compliance checks.

Worked closely with shutdown supervisors, fitters, electricians, and crane operators to sequence tasks efficiently, maintain alignment during installs, and meet tight project milestones. Proactively participated in hazard ID, exclusion zone setups, permit-to-work systems, and all site-mandated safety procedures to ensure a zero-incident shutdown environment.

nvolved in critical shutdown works at Millmerran Power Station, primarily focused on the full overhaul of the air heater unit. Responsibilities included the complete removal and reinstallation of air heater baskets, along with rigging support for boiler maintenance and internal inspection access.

Executed a wide range of rigging activities using chain blocks, rigging skids, beam clamps, and certified lifting equipment to safely lift and relocate heavy ductwork, access panels, and internal components. Operated from Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to perform rigging at height in confined, high-temperature environments typical of boiler structures.

Worked closely with crane operators during lifting operations involving Frannas and mobile slew cranes, assisting with the positioning of large structural assemblies, tooling, and components removed during the outage.

Collaborated with fitters, boiler technicians, and site supervisors to sequence mechanical changeouts and align works with critical path milestones. Reviewed lift plans, ensured rigging gear compliance, and contributed to pre-lift assessments.

Maintained a strong safety focus by conducting thorough equipment checks, supporting exclusion zone management, and actively participating in risk assessments, toolbox talks, and site permit systems. Helped ensure the project was delivered safely, on time, and to the required quality standards.

Washery & Plant Maintenance (Bengalla Coal Mine)
Performed essential rigging duties during shutdowns and maintenance campaigns across the washery and broader processing plant at Bengalla Coal Mine. Focused on the safe removal, replacement, and alignment of large mechanical components, including vibrating screens, cyclones, hoppers, feed chutes, and dewatering units within the coal handling and preparation plant (CHPP).

Worked on structural and mechanical maintenance of reclaimers and the washer plant, including rigging tasks for gearboxes, drive motors, conveyors, rollers, and transfer structures. Tasks included slinging, lifting, and guiding heavy parts during breakdowns and overhauls in tight spaces and under restrictive lift conditions.

Executed critical lifts using chain blocks, come-alongs, rigging skids, certified lifting beams, spreader bars, and shackles. Collaborated closely with Franna and slew crane operators to complete complex lifts involving awkward or oversized components. Carried out lift setup, load control, and tag line operations while maintaining full awareness of exclusion zones and load paths.

Worked alongside boilermakers, fitters, and site supervisors to ensure all change-outs were performed to specification and on schedule. Assisted in mechanical alignments, bolt-ups, and securing newly installed components during recommissioning stages.

Maintained strict adherence to site safety procedures including lockout/tagout (LOTO), permit-to-work systems, pre-starts, Take 5s, and task-specific JHAs. Took responsibility for inspecting all rigging equipment before use and contributing to a proactive safety culture across all work fronts.

Piper & Millmerran Power Stations)
Performed critical rigging operations during multiple power station outages across Bayswater, Mount Piper, and Millmerran, focusing on the disassembly and reassembly of large Induced Draft (ID) and Forced Draft (FD) fans. Responsibilities included the safe removal and installation of fan casings, impellers, shaft assemblies, bearing housings, dampers, motors, and structural supports.

Carried out complex lifts in confined plant areas using chain blocks, come-alongs, rigging skids, lifting beams, and certified slinging equipment. Assisted with cranage using Frannas and mobile slewing cranes, guiding and aligning heavy components through restricted access and tight tolerances. Supported precise alignment during the installation of fan shafts and bearings, working closely with fitters and mechanical teams to ensure accurate bolt-ups and securement.

Worked from designated access points and structures to sling loads at various heights without EWP use where not permitted, applying practical rigging methods while adhering to engineering lift plans and HRW guidelines. All tasks were performed with a focus on maintaining mechanical integrity and supporting timely plant recommissioning.

Maintained a preventative and team-focused safety approach, regularly contributing to pre-lift risk discussions, double-checking rigging setups, and actively engaging in group reviews before high-risk tasks. Known for raising potential issues before they become hazards and for mentoring newer crew members on load path awareness, gear inspection, and exclusion zone protocols. Demonstrated consistent compliance with permit systems and site-specific safety expectations.