Topic:

Optimising Trackbed Renewal with Geosynthetics in Heavy Haul Rail
 

Course Overview:

Geosynthetics are widely used in haul roads and rail trackbeds to improve stability, reduce maintenance, and extend the lifespan of heavy haul infrastructure. This webinar provides a comprehensive and practical overview of geosynthetic products for 40-tonne axle load trackbed maintenance and renewal.

Dennis will begin by discussing how each geosynthetic functions and the specific technical benefits it provides. Matt Golding will then apply these principles to real-world projects, demonstrating how geosynthetics can reduce or eliminate excavation, enhance performance in high-impact zones, and optimise long-term maintenance outcomes.

Attendees will gain actionable insights to improve trackbed performance and support more efficient, cost-effective rail infrastructure management.

Speakers:

Matt Golding

Matt Golding is the Mining Business Development Manager for Western Australia at Geofabrics. He holds an honours degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Construction Management from Kingston University in the United Kingdom.

Since joining Geofabrics in 2012, Matt has gained extensive experience across the Rail, Roads, and Waste Containment sectors, starting as a Sales Engineer before moving into his current role.

He now works closely with consulting engineers and mining clients to develop practical geosynthetic design solutions that address complex geotechnical challenges, with a particular focus on Waste and Water Containment projects.

Dennis Reeve

Dennis Reeve is a Principal Geotechnical Engineer at Geotechnology WA. He has 30 years of post-graduate experience in the mining and civil industries across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Africa, and Fiji. Dennis is a MIEAust, Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), and RPEQ.

The majority of Dennis’ experience has been in civil and mine infrastructure projects, railway projects and optimising construction activities. He is experienced in all aspects of projects from early phase optimisation, geological mapping, site investigations, analysis and design, implementing innovative solutions and construction support.

Dennis has developed the geotechnical aspects of rail renewal strategies for two major Pilbara iron ore railway networks and has overseen the implementation of several hundred kilometres of rail renewal. He is a trusted source of geotechnical input for clients on their railway and mine infrastructure operations.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the role of geosynthetics in improving stability, reducing maintenance, and extending the lifespan of heavy haul trackbeds
• Examine how different geosynthetic products function and provide technical benefits, and see these principles applied in real-world trackbed maintenance and renewal projects
• Identify practical project benefits such as reduced or eliminated excavation, enhanced performance in high-impact zones, and optimised long-term maintenance outcomes