Whelans Group has won the $75 to $150 million category at the Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) Victoria 2025 Earth Awards for the Bogong High Plains Road Landslip project, delivered as part of the Big Build Roads program.
The Bogong High Plains Road was fully reopened in May 2024 after crews safely removed nearly 600,000 tonnes of material to stabilise Victoria’s largest landslip in 40 years, restoring vital access to
Falls Creek.
“We’re truly honoured and proud to accept this award, which recognises the teamwork, innovation and resilience that went into one of the most challenging projects we’ve faced and were fortunate to be a part of,” Whelans Group chief executive officer, Leigh Brennan, said.
“With a forward-thinking client and an agile design team at WSP, construction and design ran in parallel from day one to get the road reopened as quickly as possible.
“We especially acknowledge our team in Bairnsdale who held the fort, our crews on the ground who relocated for the project, and their families.
“In particular, our team members who operated machinery had by far the most difficult job, and without them and their dedication, hard work and commitment, this wonderful award could not have been achieved.”
The win is particularly significant for managing director Charlie Whelan, a 50-year industry veteran who has declared the landslip project was to be his last.
Mr Brennan said the company will build on the incredible recognition of the CCF Victoria award and continue looking forward to “making it happen”.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams said the award is a testament to the extraordinary effort that went into restoring the road, a vital link for Victoria’s alpine communities.
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“The Bogong High Plains Road is more than just a road – it’s a lifeline for tourism, local business and emergency access,” Ms Williams said.
“I commend Whelans Group and the Big Build Roads project team for their dedication to getting it reopened safely and ahead of the ski season.”
Member for Northern Victoria Region Jaclyn Symes said the landslip project was one of the region’s most-significant infrastructure challenges in decades.
“To see it resolved with such professionalism and urgency is a credit to everyone involved. This project not only reconnected communities but also safeguarded future access to one of Victoria’s most iconic destinations,” Ms Symes said.
Bogong High Plains Road landslip program director Dipal Sorathia said the landslip project and reconnecting the Falls Creek community remains a highlight of his career.
“The team’s commitment was inspiring, with many spending months away from family
and friends due to its remote location. Although the circumstances were unfortunate, it was incredible to be part of a project that restored access, protected livelihoods and delivered lasting resilience for the region,” Mr Sorathia said.
The CCF Earth Awards are the industry’s highest recognition for excellence in civil construction. Whelans Group congratulated its peers and thanked CCF Victoria for highlighting the achievements of the sector.
