Our purpose is to build structures that matter
together, for people who do too.
We’re specialist fabricators of heavy and complex structural steel.
We collaboratively build structures, from design optimisation through to
installation, that benefit many Australians.
When the stakes are high and the job is complex, you need a steel fabricator that’s serious about partnership, not just blindly building to order.
That’s why at Bowhill Engineering, we start by bringing together a team of experts across design, surveying, drafting, engineering, fabrication and surface treatment, transportation/logistics, and erection to ask the questions others don’t and find the efficiencies others can’t.
By doing this, we saved the Majors Road Bridge project $100K by creating a custom transport solution that turned eight steel deliveries into one load, delivered and unloaded without the use of a crane. Not only did this speed up the project by a week, it also won an Innovation Award, which made our clients look great.
We call this way of working our Collaboration Commitment. Not only does it mean our jobs are on brief and on time — it’s the bidding edge you need to win before you start.
When you’re looking for a specialist in heavy and complex steel fabrication, most engineers talk quality; we’ve got 40 years demonstrating it.
Over this time, we’ve completed some of Australia’s most notable projects, like the stunning architecturally influenced Wayville Pedestrian bridge; 180 m long curved road bridge girders; steel-hulled ferries; and every lock and weir in South Australia — all while maintaining an industry-leading safety record.
Our facilities and equipment are set up to handle the heavy, large, and complex parts of any project — think ferry hulls, 50 m long pedestrian overpasses, and large mining equipment.
And every single process and component of our business — from the steel we use to the way it’s prepared, painted, and installed — meets Australian and/or International Standards such as ISO9001, AS4800, ISO14001 and AS5131: 2016 to CC3.
So instead of blowing our own trumpet, we let our track record do it for us.
Working with multiple suppliers is tough enough already without costs blowing up through a string of technical oversights that can cause variations to appear out of nowhere.
At Bowhill Engineering, our team is able to offer certainty of costs because we control our end-to-end process by designing, fabricating, preparing, and painting all our steel under one roof.
By being able to take care of the transport through to on-site erection, we’re able to control what happens to the whole process, so there’s no expensive hold-ups, knock-on effects, or mystery additional charges by other suppliers.
Put simply, we know steel from start to finish, so we get our costing right from the start, which makes your projects flow smoother and your life easier.
Our clients really appreciate it. And you will too.
Helping the community isn’t something many structural steel engineers boast about. But as a multigeneration family-owned business, contributing to our community is part of our DNA. And it’s what sets us apart.
We take on a new apprentice every year — employing locals wherever possible — many of whom are still with us today. In fact, nearly all of our staff are local, and we have one of the highest retention rates in the industry.
We also support local organisations and activities — not token one-offs, but ongoing commitments — from fundraising for local sports clubs to project-managing the rebuilding of the community centre.
It’s why we’re proud to have won so many awards over the years. Most recently, we’ve won the SA Training Awards 2015 Employer of the Year, Telstra Regional Business Award, and the Safework SA High Commendation in 2014 to name a few.
It all comes back to doing right by others. And as our client, it’s what you can expect from us too.
What Sets Us Apart
In an increasingly competitive and high-stakes infrastructure game, you need a bidding edge. And the bidding edge comes from working with a specialist in heavy and complex steel fabrication who will partner with you — not just take your order: Bowhill Engineering. Clients who work with us win before they start. Here’s why…
Our People
Jeremy Hawkes
Managing Director
“I grew up in Bowhill and joined the family business straight out of high school – that was 30 years ago. Since then it’s grown a huge amount and we’ve been lucky enough to contribute to some high profile and exciting projects both in SA and nationally.
My job is building the business’s reputation and taking full responsibility for all our operations, but just as important is taking full responsibility for all our staff. At the heart of it we’re a people business, so my role is to bring out the best in our staff so we can uncover novel ways of solving some of the industry’s most difficult challenges.
I’m also passionate about supporting the local region and think this is our responsibility too. So we hire locally and involve ourselves with most community groups in Bowhill and beyond.
I honestly believe the biggest success I’ve been associated with is my rare combination of being able to enjoy the great lifestyle and spirit of unity from living in rural South Australia, a friendly and open work culture and a highly rewarding professional career – and I hope it continues for another 30 years.”
Responsibilities
- Business Development
- Strategic Relationships
- People & Culture
- Design & Construct
- Strategy
- Financial Performance
Schalk Holl
Project Manager
“I started at Bowhill back in 2010 so I’ve now had about 20 years in the industry as a Civil Engineer Technician and Project Manager.
My job is all about understanding the client’s needs and balancing them with our capabilities. It takes a real positive attitude, what I call the “project best attitude”, which helps me treat clients like old friends, always calm and reassuring.
My strengths as a Project Manager are being great at managing multiple projects and timelines, as well as customising quality requirements to suit our client’s end needs. My favourite part of the job is definitely working as a team, to solve the big challenges and if I had to choose one job that I’m most proud of, it’d be Lock 10, when we designed a practical solution to the fishway cofferdam.
When I’m not working there’s nothing I love more than spending time with my family.”
Responsibilities
- Client contact for all projects
- Maintaining an overview of contract performance
- Inspection of deliverable to ensure they conform to the drawings and specs
- Program Planning and Control, in conjunction with the Production Team
- Reviewing and resolving any conflicts and/or ambiguities within the project
- Coordinating subcontract activities
Jodie Hawkes
CFO, Company Secretary
“I started at Bowhill back in 2002 after working in accounting for a number of years.
You would probably describe me as ridiculously organised and a little OCD, because I love getting the job done and I’m obsessed with staying focused to ensure all goals and objectives are met.
My favourite parts of the job are making new innovations happen without too much red tape, and seeing staff evolve from “just doing” their work to making a huge contribution.
My favourite project by far is building ferries, built by locals for locals.
My strengths as CFO lie in systemising tasks, creating policies and procedures and getting new innovations implemented. Despite working in construction for 15 years now I’m still on a steep learning curve, but what I do learn, I convert to work instructions, to help the next generation coming through.
Outside of work I’m all about having adventures with the 4 kids and volunteering in our community.”
Responsibilities
- Strategy
- Financial Performance
- People & Culture
- Compliance
- Business Development
Tom Dennis
Production Manager
“I worked as a boilermaker for 12 years in the Barossa before joining Bowhill back in 2012.
I’m all about getting the job done and love to be hands-on with my projects. As a Manager it’s my role to get the team on board and working as effectively as possible, helping them find productivity improvements and work together to innovate and get the job done even better than we thought possible.
My favourite project would have to be Canberra Bridge because it was the first one I tackled when I took on my leadership role but the Darlington extension is special too cause of the amount of input I had.
I love the people and projects I work on, plus the location – Bowhill’s a great place to spend time with family and, when I get the chance, the hunting and fishing is great too.”
Responsibilities
- Design & Construct
- Tendering
- People & Culture
- Production Planning & Scheduling
- Continuous Improvement
- Compliance
David Holland
Project Coordinator
“I joined Bowhill straight after finishing my Mechanical Engineering degree in 2015.
I was attracted by Bowhill’s involvement in projects that benefit local communities and wanted to be a part of a team that helps make a difference. My role as a Project Coordinator is making sure everything runs smoothly and on time and budget – it takes a lot of organisation and requires a really methodical approach.
My favourite part of working for Bowhill is definitely the team – it’s full of great local people who are all really easy going and welcoming.
When I’m not working I love my basketball and I’ve recently spent time skiing in Japan and Canada – not too much snow out at Bowhill I’m afraid!”
Responsibilities
- Project Coordination
- Procurement
- Logistics Planning
- Compliance
Michelle Mundie
Accounts Coordinator
“I started with Bowhill back in 2012 and brought a bunch of varied experiences from state and local government, HR, accounts, event management and most recently owning and running our own business in the form of a country hotel.
This past experience has given me a really good foundation to be a well-rounded Accounts Coordinator because it lets me speak to a lot of relevant topics, plus I just really enjoy working with people.
I love my job and the feeling of satisfaction it gives me. I love the sense of pride I have when I see our projects in use, particularly the ferries and bridges. I love our team and our culture and the fact we’re all so passionate about contributing to the end result of great projects.
Outside of work I throw a lot of dinner parties for family and friends cause I’m pretty good in the kitchen, plus I’m super happy just spending time at home with our animals and garden.”
Responsibilities
- Admin Team Leader
- Financial Management
- Purchasing
- Continuous Improvement
Mark Graham
Quality Representative
“I returned to Bowhill Engineering in 2017 to help strengthen the quality control & inspection of the Production & Surface Treatment aspects of each project. Having over 20+ years industry experience this is a chance for me to add an independent auditing eye (which is what our clients require) but at the same time mentor and coach apprentices & staff and work at simplifying & improving processes.
The Paint Inspection and Welding Supervision role can be tricky as there are extreme and varying requirements surrounding the reporting and inspection of different projects. Each project brings with it a new and exciting challenge and the chance to pass on some of my knowledge and experience many of the younger staff.
I like to keep myself busy outside of work, riding my motorbike, travel and enjoying time with family & friends on the river at my shack at Caloote.”
Responsibilities
- Technical Compliance
- Welding Supervisor
- NACE Coating Inspector Paint – level 1
Samantha Krollig
HR Coordinator
“I’ve been with Bowhill for 10 years and my job is to basically keep everyone happy!
My biggest strength is having a great eye for knowing how the workforce is feeling and bridging the gap between management expectations and employee requirements. I’m really proud of the unique family atmosphere we’ve been able to build and I love working with a great group of people who all get along well.
My favourite Bowhill project is Wayville Bridge; my boys call it “Mums Bridge”. Not only does it look fantastic but being in our home state it is something to be proud of and show friends, and when people ask what we build they know this bridge and say wow, we didn’t know you built stuff like that! Travelling with the team to the opening was an amazing experience as well, seeing the end project was extremely satisfying and humbling to know that as a group we achieved this amazing result.
My home life is all about spending time with family and friends, following kids sports locally and supporting my local community.”
Responsibilities
- HR Coordinator
- Payroll
- WHS Coordinator (Contractor Inductions, SWMS, licensing and regulatory requirements)
Michael O’Malley
Workshop Team Leader
I started at Bowhill Engineering in 2008 as an Apprentice Metal Fabricator, gaining my trade qualification and continuing with Bowhill Engineering until my ninth year, before having a year off to pursue a different career. In this time, I figured out Bowhill Engineering really is home and is where I want to be. I returned in February 2018 when the Workshop Team Leader role became available.
I love seeing the team produce highly scrutinised work to high standards, time and time again. Heavy and complex jobs are my passion and I love seeing jobs completed on time and under budget. I feel my main strength is attention to detail, demanding the best not only from the workshop crew but myself as well.
There have been a few exciting projects in my time at Bowhill Engineering, lots that I have been very proud of. The job that comes to mind is the Wayville Pedestrian Bridge. An intricate structure that stands proud in Adelaide, it gives me a real sense of achievement driving past and telling my mates, “I helped build that”.
Outside of work I’m heavily involved at the Mannum Football Club; coaching and playing. While sport itself is a heavy part of my life, summer time is more relaxed. I love social golf, fishing and enjoying a couple beers with mates.
Responsibilities
- Production
- People & Culture
- Compliance
Vicki Hein
Project Assistant
“I’ve been with Bowhill since 2012 and before that worked with Telstra and as a tour guide in the Rocky Mountains.
My role is primarily making sure we meet our documentation requirements of high specification projects and assisting with everything administrative on complex projects. It takes some serious multitasking skills and the ability to learn quickly and just get the job done. I support the Project Managers to help them focus on bigger picture priorities, help them work on “what only they can do”. My role is to ensure that systems & procedures are structured to enable the whole team to handle incoming and outgoing information with the utmost professionalism.
Wayville Bridge is definitely my favourite project because it gives you a bit of a buzz to be able to point to something so unique and iconic and know you helped create it.
When I’m not working I’m usually either water-skiing or horse riding.”
Responsibilities
- Project Setup
- Project Checklists
- Project Completion including MDR Compilation
Brent Smith
STF Team Leader
The opportunity to change my lifestyle and see more of my family was my main reason for seeking employment locally with Bowhill Engineering. Starting in January 2018, with over 16 year’s experience in spray painting and abrasive blasting, I have been impressed with the facilities and the capability of the Surface Treatment Team since joining Boweng.
Moving into Surface Treatment Team Leader role following recent changes, my passion is to provide the client with a finish better than expected and I am extremely proud of the work and quality that we produce as a team. I enjoy the diversity and extent of the work that we do, knowing that we have contributed to projects state-wide even nationally. Combined our Surface Treatment Team has over 27 year’s experience, something I think our clients appreciate when it comes to finishing their projects and the team is growing is size and experience as we speak.
My first love is my Daughter, Harper, she always brings a smile to my face, any time I can spend with her is the greatest gift.
Responsibilities
- Blast & Paint
- Quality & Compliance
Demi Marston
Receptionist
“I’m new to Bowhill, starting in 2017, and my job is to look after everyone who walks through the door and give them happy vibes and a reason to smile. This crucial role is the first contact point for our clients, so it is incredibly important that the first impression of Bowhill is positive and memorable. “Clients are old friends” is part of our brand and we need to live and breathe this mantra every day, just like our “yes and” approach, no query is too small or too hard.
The thing I most enjoy at Bowhill is everyone treats each other like family. I get the impression from all my coworkers that they would happily help out in any complex situation, and that’s something that makes coming to work a real pleasure.
Responsibilities
- Reception
- Clerical
- People & Culture
- Data Entry
- Support Admin Team
Our History
Bowhill Engineering is a multi-generation, family-owned and operated business that has been giving Australian businesses the edge since the early 1970’s.
Back then, it was a small rural machinery maintenance, repair and modification workshop run by Brendon and Averil Hawkes that built its reputation by putting clients first and always saying ‘yes’ – no matter what the challenge.
This approach was instilled in their two sons, Jeremy and Simon, who helped the business evolve into steel fabrication and construction in the early 1990’s.
Today, Bowhill Engineering continues to be proudly family run and continues to provide the same commitment to its clients, who have expanded into industries including mining, water, defence and commercial building, turning it from a local SA success story into an Australia-wide industry benchmark.
The business now operates an impressive modern facility in Bowhill and has worked on some of Australia’s most notable and complex projects – but still considers its services to the local community as its most important work.
How We’re Spoken About
Professional Honest and Local | They fabricate even difficult steelwork accurately support me in my business | Strong business ethics and culture Business striving for excellence and to have a genuine point of difference in the market | Integrity… High level of care | This is a professional South Australian business with a “can-do” approach to contracting. They don’t just say they “can-do” – they deliver on their promises. Because service and quality is exemplary Reliable strong business | Adaptable and accommodating | A lean company that provides a good product at a competitive price | Experience shows that the company has a commitment to quality outcomes and consistency Quality service, competitively priced, good customer service. | The work is good and we like the customer support |Jeremy is good to deal with | Proven performance regarding quality and timelines. Approachable and a can do problem solving attitude. | Have had quite a few years’ experience working with the team at Bowhill and understand the company philosophy | sort of family type atmosphere, have a go at unusual projects Commercially competitive and good quality systems Fabrication and Protective Treatment capabilities are of a high standard. The company has completed and delivered numerous projects in the past of a good – to high quality finish. | Detailed structural work knowledge | Designed constructability Solution approach | Quality Products and easy to work with | fast, reliable, organised | Competency and co-operative spirit Ability to undertake varied projects with solid engineering knowledge and excellent quality | We have always found Jeremy [and Boweng] proficient, straight forward and efficient to work with/for
We’re Always on the Lookout for Great People
If you like what you’ve read and think you’d be a great fit for our culture
and values, we’d love to hear from you. Our current vacancies are listed
below. Please email us for more information at
admin@boweng.com.au
We also try to take on a new apprentice every year, and encourage
applications for work experience.