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Madsen Giersing’s approach to complex marine and coastal infrastructure

Marine and coastal infrastructure sits at the outer edge of engineering predictability. Waves, tides, corrosion, seismic risk and environmental regulation rarely align neatly with standard solutions. For Madsen Giersing, this is where their work begins.

For more than three decades, Lead Structural Engineer Jay McIntyre has operated in this space, delivering complex marine and coastal infrastructure across Australia and abroad. His career has been shaped by projects that demand judgment, research and experience when established design codes fall short.

“They’re not easy projects,” he says. “You can’t just pull a standard methodology off the shelf and expect it to work.”

When guidance runs thin

In a high-seismic region, Jay encountered a retaining-wall wharf for which available codes provided insufficient guidance.

“I spent weeks searching for a workable approach. Eventually, I found a research paper that could be adapted, but it required careful validation.”

This depth of investigation is typical of Madsen Giersing’s marine and coastal work. Rather than forcing projects into prescriptive frameworks, the team builds solutions from first principles, supported by research, testing and global precedent where relevant.

From ports and wharves to offshore decommissioning

The firm’s portfolio spans ports, wharves, marine retaining systems, coastal protection structures and offshore energy facilities.

One recent challenge involved the decommissioning of large offshore gas platforms, with individual components weighing up to 5,000 tonnes. Jay explains, “Environmental restrictions ruled out conventional piling for the footings supporting these components, which would have greatly simplified the footings designs. We were dealing with massive loads, complex staging, and very tight constraints, so the load transfer and staging strategies had to be rethought entirely.” He adds, “It’s not something you can solve by plugging numbers into a spreadsheet.”

These projects demand an integrated understanding of structural behaviour, constructability, environmental approvals and risk. Madsen Giersing’s design input often extends beyond feasibility advice, option development and construction sequencing.

Research-led, not template-driven

What distinguishes Madsen Giersing’s approach is a willingness to challenge assumptions and invest time in developing defensible design pathways. This often means researching international case studies, adapting methodologies from adjacent disciplines, or developing bespoke analytical approaches.

“If we can’t find an example of someone else doing it before, we’ll do the research and work out how a methodology can be applied to this specific case.”

This mindset is particularly important in marine environments, where each site behaves differently. Local bathymetry, sediment transport, wave direction and operational requirements mean that even similar structures can demand entirely different solutions.

Knowledge built over time, not automated

While digital tools and automation continue to advance, Jay is clear that marine and coastal engineering remains deeply reliant on human judgment and accumulated experience.

“It’s the war stories and the built knowledge that make the difference. This isn’t something you can cookie-cutter or automate. You need people who have seen how structures behave over time.”

For public and industrial assets, that judgment carries weight. Durability is not theoretical; it is measured in decades of exposure.

Designing for longevity in harsh environments

At its core, Madsen Giersing’s marine and coastal infrastructure work is about durability and resilience. Assets must perform for decades under constant exposure to excessive loading, corrosion and environmental variability.

Technical rigour and research matter. So does understanding how infrastructure is constructed, staged and maintained. The firm delivers solutions that respond to real-world conditions rather than idealised assumptions.

“In these environments, small misjudgements compound. If you underestimate a force or oversimplify a condition, lifecycle risk is locked in, and the structure will eventually reveal it. Experience is what allows you to see that trajectory before it becomes a problem.”

For clients operating at the edge of land and sea, that depth of thinking can be the difference between an asset that merely functions and one that endures.

On World Engineering Day, we celebrate the people who design structures but also shape industries, shorelines, and communities.

Lasse Madsen, General Manager of Madsen Giersing, sees engineering as more than just calculations and drawings. It’s about responsibility, addressing problems others avoid, and about building infrastructure that quietly powers economies over generations.

Having been with the firm for over 20 years, Lasse has enjoyed the privilege of working alongside his father and mentor, Peter Madsen. His career reflects both his personal dedication and a broader development in marine and coastal engineering across Australia and the Pacific.

From Curiosity to Coastal Infrastructure

Like many engineers, Lasse’s fascination began early. Structures of bridges, buildings, and ports captivated his young mind; the unseen ingenuity holding them together. His childhood obsession with LEGO grew into a career defined by technical skill and a passion for complexity.

“I’ve always enjoyed getting under the skin of a difficult problem,” he says. “There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking on a challenge that appears daunting and working through it methodically to create something safe, efficient and enduring.”

That mindset would later shape his approach to marine infrastructure, one of the most technically challenging fields in structural engineering. Unlike buildings on solid ground, ports and wharves must handle tides, corrosion, vessel impact, extreme weather, and constantly shifting loads. Precision is essential. So is foresight.

Engineering at Scale: Motukea Cargo Wharf

Among the many projects that stand out in his career, one remains particularly significant: the Motukea Cargo Wharf in Papua New Guinea.

Curtain Brothers engaged MG to design a 210-metre gravity structure, designed to accommodate vessels up to 60,000 DWT, required cellular cofferdams 20 metres in diameter, constructed from flat sheet piles, supporting a berth pocket at RL -13 metres. It was complex, demanding and technically ambitious.

“It’s the kind of project engineers are drawn to,” Lasse reflects. “Challenging conditions, intricate design features and the opportunity to create infrastructure that directly supports trade and economic growth.”

Beyond its technical merit, the project symbolised something larger: the power of collaboration between client and consultant to deliver resilient marine infrastructure in challenging environments.

That same collaborative ethos continues to underpin Madsen Giersing’s approach to complex marine works today.

Enabling the Impossible

While projects like Motukea demonstrate scale, others highlight the engineering required to make complex infrastructure possible.

One such project was the pipeline suspension bridge spanning the Hegigio Gorge in Papua New Guinea’s Southern Highlands; a 470-metre crossing suspended above a 500-metre deep valley in extremely remote terrain.

Working with Clough, MG designed the temporary works and construction systems needed to safely build and launch the structure.

This included temporary platforms on the southern tower, two 12-storey access towers, specialised lifting systems to raise the A-frame tower, and engineered systems to launch the bridge cables and beams.

“It’s a great example of how construction engineering and temporary works make complex infrastructure possible,” Lasse says.

Leadership Built on Legacy

One of Lasse’s greatest professional milestones has been leading the company his father built.

“To work alongside my father for more than two decades, to learn from his experience and then be entrusted with taking the business forward; that’s something I don’t take lightly.”

Today, his leadership reflects both continuity and evolution. While the company’s foundation remains rooted in technical excellence, the industry itself is transforming. Digital modelling, AI-driven material assessment, advanced analysis tools and heightened expectations around safety and sustainability are redefining what excellence looks like.

“The next 20 years will see technology embedded into every stage of infrastructure,” he notes. “From digital twins of ports and terminals to predictive monitoring of steel and concrete health. Engineering will become smarter, more data-informed and more proactive.”

Queensland’s Marine Opportunity

Looking ahead, Lasse sees enormous potential in Queensland’s marine and coastal infrastructure pipeline.

“Queensland’s marine and port infrastructure forecast presents a significant opportunity,” he says. “We are seeing continued investment in trade-enabling assets, coastal resilience and waterfront redevelopment. Having worked extensively in complex marine environments, we are excited about contributing to infrastructure that strengthens supply chains and supports long-term economic growth.”

With projects ranging from temporary crane platforms for bulk fuel terminals to waterfront redevelopments and heavy marine structures, Madsen Giersing is well-equipped to support that growth, especially when projects require a detailed understanding of coastal forces, constructability, and risk.

A Message for the Next Generation

For those considering a career in engineering, Lasse’s advice is straightforward.

“If you are driven by curiosity and enjoy solving meaningful problems, engineering offers a remarkable journey. You can build infrastructure that outlives you and benefits communities long after you’re gone.”

On World Engineering Day, that sentiment embodies the true spirit of engineering. Engineering is about stewardship; constructing safely, sustainably, and intelligently in environments that deserve respect.

Queensland’s economic momentum has always depended on the infrastructure that connects its regions to global markets. Ports, bridges and coastal assets remain central to that story as the state’s industrial and energy networks continue to grow.

The 2025 Queensland Major Projects Pipeline Report (QMPPR) highlights $127.5 billion in major projects, including increasing investment in export-related and heavy-industry infrastructure, with marine works forming an important part of this broader picture. These projects will shape Queensland’s future capability for decades.

For Lasse Madsen, Managing Director of Madsen Giersing, the findings show both momentum and increasing pressure.

“Queensland is heading into a significant phase of industrial expansion. As the scale grows, so does the pressure on infrastructure. Every wharf, bridge and coastal facility needs to be designed with this in mind if we want this pipeline to be sustainable.”

Ports and Marine Projects at the Core of Queensland’s Economy

From the expansion of Gladstone and Abbot Point ports to new export terminals in the Bowen Basin and North Queensland, marine infrastructure continues to underpin Queensland’s export performance.

While the QMPPR does not define marine infrastructure as a standalone sector, it highlights extensive investment in port upgrades, harbour works, coastal logistics facilities and heavy-industry assets that directly support Queensland’s exports. These developments sit at the centre of the resources supply chain and rely heavily on advanced marine and structural engineering.

More than $20 billion of resources and heavy-industry projects are in planning or development. Many depend on coastal access, port-handling capacity and export staging areas. These assets will underpin growth in critical minerals, hydrogen and new energy markets.

“Export infrastructure is the quiet achiever of the state’s economy,” Madsen says. “Every tonne of ore, grain or hydrogen leaving Queensland depends on marine infrastructure that must perform reliably in demanding marine environments.”

Madsen emphasises that long-term value comes from engineering choices that prioritise resilience. A design lens that considers the next 40 to 50 years, rather than a short-term funding cycle, strengthens export continuity and reduces lifecycle cost.

Bridging Industry and Infrastructure

The QMPPR also identifies sustained investment in transport linkages, including upgrades to bridges, access routes and river crossings that connect industrial regions to ports and freight corridors.

“Bridges play a vital role in Queensland’s logistics chain,” Madsen says. “They link mines to ports, regional industries to supply chains and workers to employment centres.”

However, delivery pressures continue to intensify. The report forecasts 37% cumulative cost escalation by 2029, driven by steel price volatility, global supply chain stress and competition for critical materials and fabrication capacity.

These same inputs are required across marine structures, heavy industry assets, energy infrastructure, and rail, meaning inflationary pressure is shared across multiple sectors. Madsen says this overlap makes early coordination essential.

“When industry understands where demand will peak, we can plan smarter. Coordinated procurement and adaptable design help reduce cost and keep projects moving.”

Engineering Smarter, Building Leaner

Improving productivity across the unfunded pipeline, valued at $49.4 billion, will be essential to unlocking private investment. Heavy-industry projects account for a significant portion of this total, increasing the need for efficient design and clear constructability.

Madsen believes the most effective savings come from the design phase.

“The strongest returns often come from better engineering. When we optimise form, minimise material use and simplify fabrication, we shorten construction time and reduce cost without compromising durability or safety.”

He sees opportunities for significant gains through modular marine construction, prefabricated bridge components and digital modelling.

“The closer design is aligned to practical delivery, the safer and more efficient the build becomes. Constructability is now a strategic advantage.”

Heavy Industry: The Next Frontier

The QMPPR shows continued momentum in mining and industrial development, with a $3.8 billion increase in projects compared with last year. These projects increasingly blend marine works, processing facilities, transport links and high-voltage energy connections, creating complex, multidisciplinary requirements.

“Industrial projects today involve far more integration,” Madsen says. “Marine structures must align with processing facilities, transport networks and energy systems. That level of complexity makes early engineering involvement essential.”

Madsen Giersing’s deep capability across civil, structural, and marine engineering places the firm at the intersection of these challenges, ensuring that complex industrial and export projects begin with clear, robust and buildable solutions.

“Our aim is always to resolve critical engineering issues early. The clearer we are up front, the more certainty we create for the teams delivering these projects.”

Sustainable Growth, Engineered for the Long Term

As Queensland strengthens its position as a global exporter of energy, minerals and manufactured products, the QMPPR reinforces the need for durable, long-term infrastructure planning.

“This pipeline represents a generation of opportunity,” Madsen says. “Queensland’s future success depends not just on how much we build but on the quality of what we deliver. Stronger designs, earlier collaboration and long-term thinking will keep our ports, bridges and industrial assets performing for decades.”

We were delighted to support the Cobra9 x Leigh Surveyors Racing Team throughout the 2025 ProVelo Super League season, where the squad delivered standout performances right to the final round. From Elliot Schultz securing a hometown podium to Jake Cawthorn backing up a huge ride at Grafton with a top 10 GC finish, the team raced with intent, grit, and heart. It was fantastic to be involved with the group in 2025, and we are proud to share that Madsen Giersing will continue our partnership with Cobra9 x Leigh Surveyors Racing Team as they gear up for the 2026 ProVelo Super League, Australia’s premier pathway to the WorldTour.

“Engineering and elite sport share the same foundations: discipline, precision, and a relentless drive to perform at the highest level,” says Lasse Madsen. “Cobra9 brings that mindset to every race, and we are proud to stand behind a team that embodies excellence on and off the bike.”

With more than 15 years on the elite circuit, Cobra9 is one of Australia’s longest standing and most respected racing teams, with a legacy built on grit, consistency, and performance.

2026 ProVelo Super League Calendar

📍 Round 1: SA KICK IT | 24-26 January 2026

📍 Round 2: MELBOURNE TO WARRNAMBOOL | 14-15 February 2026

📍 Round 3:  SPIRIT OF TASMANIA CYCLING TOUR | 19-22 February 2026

📍 Round 4:  HARBOUR CITY GP | 6-8 March 2026

📍 Round 5: SQUADRON ENERGY GRAFTON TO INVERELL CYCLE CLASSIC | 14-15 March 2026

📍 Round 6: Q TOUR | 20-22 March 2026

Wishing the riders a fast, safe, and standout season ahead.

Learn more about the ProVelo Super League: https://provelosuperleague.com/events

Find out how you can support the Cobra9 x Leigh Surveyors Racing Team here: https://cobra9.com.au/pages/racing

We’re delighted to welcome Leon Ross back to our team as Madsen Giersing’s Digital Lead.

Leon first joined MG in 2001, spending eight noteworthy years as Lead Structural Maritime Drafter. Those early days helped shape the foundation of our marine design capability and set the tone for the innovation that defines us today.

After two decades of adventures across Australia and New Zealand, leading digital transformation and championing BIM and Digital Engineering, Leon returns home with nearly 30 years of experience and a renewed passion for driving smarter, more connected ways of working.

From pen-and-paper drafts to fully integrated digital models, Leon’s journey reflects just how far engineering design has evolved and why we’re proud to have him back to help write the next chapter.

Welcome home, Leon!

Madsen Giersing is pleased to announce our merger with MLEI Consulting Engineers, bringing together two respected Australian engineering consultancies to expand our national presence and enhance our technical capability.

This merger combines Madsen Giersing’s established reputation in marine and structural engineering with MLEI’s proven experience in civil and structural infrastructure delivery across multiple sectors, including defence, energy, mining, and education.

Complementary Strengths, Shared Focus

Both businesses share a practical, solutions-driven approach to engineering. We believe in clear communication, technical rigour, and outcomes that align with client objectives. This merger allows us to broaden the services we offer without compromising the responsiveness and quality that clients expect.

“This is a strategic move that supports our long-term growth,” said Lasse Madsen, Director of Madsen Giersing. “MLEI brings complementary capability and sector experience. Together, we can offer clients a broader range of services across marine, civil, and structural projects — while maintaining the same focus on quality and delivery.”

Ongoing Commitment to Clients

Clients will continue to deal with the same teams and receive the same level of service and technical input. Existing projects remain unaffected. Our expanded capability means we are better positioned to support more complex, multidisciplinary work, from land-based infrastructure through to specialist marine environments.

This merger is part of our ongoing commitment to deliver value and certainty across all stages of infrastructure delivery.

About MLEI Consulting Engineers

MLEI is a diverse team of technical professionals with experience ranging from more than four decades to graduate level. We pride ourselves in providing expert teams tailored to every project. Our team across Australia includes engineers, designers, technical officers and scientists. Learn more at https://www.mlei.com.au/

With a long and successful career in infrastructure, there isn’t much Madsen Giersing’s founder, Peter Madsen, hasn’t seen in his time supporting projects in PNG, Australia and the Pacific. 

Peter has achieved significant success through his approach to temporary works, an overlooked area that can support constructability, enhance delivery, and significantly benefit any project. 

We caught up with Peter to learn more about his approach, which underpins Madsen Giersing’s temporary works philosophy. 

Peter, can you describe Madsen Giersing’s approach to Temporary Works Delivery? 

Our approach is very much construction-friendly and prioritises safety. We focus on ensuring that temporary structures support the overall construction process effectively while maintaining a safe environment for all workers. 

What are the essential elements to successfully delivering a project’s temporary work solutions? 

The key element is aligning the method from the start and getting an agreement with the participating contractor. This coordination ensures that everyone is on the same page and can move forward efficiently. 

Where can the main gains be made in time, cost, and materials when developing a temporary works solution? 

The biggest gains come from close cooperation between the site team and designers. It’s crucial to understand what is feasible and to optimise resources and processes. 

Can you walk us through your process for assessing the temporary works requirements on a project? 

The process begins by assessing the limitations of equipment and personnel based on the number of repetitions required. From this assessment, the next step is to automate as much as possible to ease the workload for the site crew, while always prioritising safety and ensuring good access for all personnel. 

How do you determine the appropriate temporary works solutions for different construction scenarios? 

We look at the equipment that is available or can be made available; for example, pile driving with floating equipment gives much more flexibility, in which case a travelling platform with pile gates will be easier. However, the floating option might not always be possible due to the sea state.  

What factors do you consider when selecting materials and components for temporary works structures? 

The temporary works is, in most cases, a purpose design and fabricated in almost all cases is a structural steel item; because of strength and weight, in some cases, we will use aluminium if the item must be manhandled. 

Can you describe a challenging temporary works project you’ve worked on and how you approached its design? 

Two projects come to mind: the installation of the Hegigio suspension bridge in PNG, which had a span of 470 metres of a gorge 500 metres deep.  We had to develop the construction method and the temporary works to provide safe access. The solution was to have two 30-metre-high towers on each side of the bridge line to provide safe man access for the installation of the clamps in the wind cable. These towers were fabricated in Australia and packed into containers as flat packs and shipped to site.  

The other project was the recovery of the Mubi River bridge in PNG. The bridge is an 80-metre single-span bridge, which, during the launching, collapsed into the river. We got involved in the recovery, and because cranes were limited to a 30-tonne mobile crane, we designed an A-frame using a pipe section from the chevon project. This double A-frame was able to lift 60 tonnes and out ridge of 20 metres, which far exceeded the capacity of any crane at that time in PNG. 

How do you collaborate with other members of the project team, such as designers and contractors, during the design phase? 

We hold weekly meetings, provide updates, and encourage site personnel to be involved and take ownership of the solutions. This fosters a collaborative environment. 

What role does risk assessment play in your temporary works design process? 

Risk assessment is vital. Identifying potential risks early on and incorporate risk mitigation in the design. 

How do you incorporate feedback and lessons learned from previous projects into your designs? 

We simply do it. Each project teaches us something new, and we adapt our practices to continually improve our outcomes. We will have open communication with the site to understand the issues that is affected them and lesson learned.  

Lastly, can you discuss any innovative or creative approaches you’ve taken in temporary works design to optimise efficiency or cost-effectiveness? 

We’ve explored automation where feasible, such as using hydraulic rams for opening and closing piling gates. These innovations help reduce manual labour and enhance efficiency and improve safety.