The Problem:
A former sawmill yard in regional Queensland was being reviewed ahead of future use and potential sale. The owner needed a clear picture of contamination risk so decisions could be made with confidence. Key concerns included historical timber processing residues, fill of unknown origin, and potential petroleum impacts from machinery areas. The brief was to complete a preliminary site investigation and targeted soil investigation that stands up in court or commercial negotiations without slowing momentum
Project Summary:
iEnvi designed a focused contaminated land investigation that blends speed with technical rigour. We completed a preliminary site investigation (PSI) using historic aerials, council and state records, and a detailed site walk to map hotspots such as old sheds, stockpiles, machine bays, and any signs of unauthorised fill. Services were checked so sampling could proceed safely.
Targeted soil investigation then zeroed in on priority locations. Environmental sampling covered a metals suite, copper chrome analysis for potential CCA residues from timber treatment, and petroleum indicators where staining or odour suggested risk. If ash or building waste was present, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were included. Suspect fragments were screened for asbestos in soil with field gravimetric checks and laboratory identification. Results were assessed against NEPM HIL and EIL criteria and used to update the conceptual site model and risk rating. Recommendations set clear triggers for any detailed site investigation and for groundwater investigation if field conditions indicated potential impact pathways.
Solution & Benefit:
The outcome is a defensible baseline that supports negotiation, planning, and due diligence. The PSI and soil investigation clarify whether contamination is low and manageable or if a DSI is warranted, and highlight any need for groundwater investigation. iEnvi keeps it practical for vendors, buyers, and advisors with plain language findings that translate easily into action. Core services delivered include PSI, soil investigation, environmental sampling, contaminated land investigation, and management of asbestos in soil and petroleum risks where relevant. This positions the site for its next chapter with minimal uncertainty and better commercial outcomes.
