Oaky Creek North: Process Control Systems and Operational Technology Support

The Challenge

Oaky Creek North, operated by Oaky Creek Holdings (Glencore), required a comprehensive Process Control Systems (PCS) and Operational Technology support service to manage critical plant automation across the coal mining operation. The Principal needed a contractor capable of delivering 24/7 technical support, system programming, and site-based engineering expertise aligned with enterprise-level technical standards and safety requirements.

Our Approach

Deftec submitted a detailed capability proposal demonstrating our ability to staff the contract with qualified PCS engineers across multiple levels — from Entry Level 1 engineers through to Supervisor-level engineers with direct site leadership responsibility. Our approach centred on continuous onsite presence using a back-to-back 7/7 roster model for Level 2 (Senior) and Level 1 engineers, with dedicated Monday-Friday supervisory coverage. We committed to full compliance with Oaky Creek North’s comprehensive technical specifications for alarming, PLC configuration, SCADA programming, networking standards, and naming conventions. Our team brought hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation platforms, AVEVA Citect SCADA, and site-specific systems including Inductive Automation Ignition and RedLion protocol converters. We also embedded ourselves within Glencore’s established Quality Management System framework, aligned with AS 4418 SCADA standards and Coal Mining Safety and Health legislation.

The Outcome

Deftec was selected as the preferred contractor for the OC3803 tender, demonstrating competitive technical capability and a realistic delivery model that met Glencore’s operational demands. Our submission positioned us as a Queensland-based provider with deep industrial automation expertise and the local capacity to mobilise experienced engineers rapidly. The engagement provides ongoing technical partnership with a major Glencore operation, with scope spanning PCS engineering, SCADA operations, and continuous support across both FIFO and DIDO rostering arrangements.

Technologies and Capabilities

• PLC Programming & Configuration — Rockwell Automation Studio 5000, ControlLogix, Allen-Bradley platforms
• SCADA Systems — AVEVA Citect, Inductive Automation Ignition, HMI development
• Networking & IIoT — EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Modbus, protocol conversion, VLAN configuration
• Industrial Drives — PowerFlex, ABB ACS800/ACS880 series, variable frequency drive integration
• Site Standards Compliance — Technical specification implementation for alarming, naming conventions, version control, Factory/Site Acceptance Testing
• Safety & Quality Management — AS 4418, AS 61508, Coal Mining Safety and Health Act (Qld) compliance, pre-qualification assessment protocols
• 24/7 Operational Support — Onsite rostering, afterhours support, remote diagnostics