Ashburner Francis hydraulic division snares new powerhouse Principal
The Ashburner Francis hydraulic design team, based in Brisbane, is delighted to welcome Joe Griffin to the role of Principal. Joe’s impressive background and experience spans more than two decades, including his most recent role as General Manager of a hydraulic consulting firm, leading hydraulic design teams for flagship residential tower developments, and large-scale industrial projects for food and beverage processing facilities. His expertise has also been sought for offshore projects including the upgrade of fire safety systems for an industrial facility in Papua New Guinea.
Joe’s significant hydraulics’ expertise is enhanced by his ten-years as a commercial plumber, predominantly in Australia and partially in the UK. According to Joe, this trade experience created a smooth transition to design. “My practical experience informs my design solutions; for example, my on-site installations experience helps me to identify issues early and visualise outcomes including how I integrate my work with mechanical and electrical services,” Joe says. He goes on to highlight that this streamlines the design process and helps avoid clashes during construction, or even worse, retrofitting afterwards.
Ashburner Franics Principal Joe Griffin with Director Paul McKenna (Photo ©Leonie Bolt)
Always looking for ways to create improvements and efficiencies, Joe has a keen interest in emerging technologies. Specifically, he is currently trialling new software that sizes and designs pipe work (in real time) as it’s being drawn. “Technology is dynamic and continuing to move quickly, including in hydraulics. Continuing to keep pace with industry tools and technology is vital to deliver innovative and effective outcomes for clients,” Joe says.
He’s also looking forward to developing the hydraulic team’s fire sprinkler expertise — and will work closely with Ashburner Francis’ mechanical team to make that happen. Meanwhile, Paul McKenna (an Ashburner Francis Director who heads up the hydraulic division) says Joe’s appointment marks a turning point for the firm.
“The expansion of our hydraulic team has been brought about by growing demand for our services,” Paul explains. “Joe’s significant experience and his combined trade-and-consultant expertise perfectly position him to take up the role of Principal and not only deliver clients exceptional service but also mentor our emerging talent here at Ashburner Francis.”
Rounding out Joe’s impressive career to date is his recognition from the Association of Hydraulic Services Consultants Australia (AHSCA QLD Chapter) as a finalist for Hydraulic Consultant of the Year 2024 (Queensland) — an honour Paul McKenna has twice been awarded. Together, Paul and Joe will make a formidable team.