Established in 1975—Whelans Group is a civil construction company based in East Gippsland.

At Whelans, we pride ourselves in partnering with businesses to deliver projects to the highest standards with exceptional quality outcomes.

Our focus on building strong client relationships has helped us become one of East Gippsland’s largest, most reputable and diverse providers of technical, professional and construction services including engineering, construction, operations and maintenance.

We serve a broad range of clients in both the private and public sector, specialising in civil infrastructure projects throughout Australia. We specialise in construction works for various industries including transport, rail, water, waste management, energy and estate development.

We employ 150+ skilled staff including Project Administrators, Engineers, Foreman, Leading Hands, Surveyors, Payroll, Human Resources, Plant Operators, General Labourers, Mechanics, Accounts Payable/Receivable, Document Control, Heavy Haulage drivers and more.

Our services

  • Earthworks

  • Roadworks

  • Drainage works

  • Concrete paving and crushed rock/asphalt pavements

  • Airfield construction

  • Heavy mining applications

  • Major highway realignments

  • Railway works

  • Waste facility construction

  • Ocean entrance sand management

  • Subdivisions

  • Sporting complexes

  • House sites

  • Driveways

  • Dams and bush roads

Our Story

The Whelan Group story began in 1975 when Charlie Whelan established Whelans Swan Reach Pty Ltd with a vision to deliver quality civil construction services to East Gippsland. From humble beginnings, Charlie worked tirelessly to grow the business into what it is today—East Gippsland’s largest and most professional civil construction company, complete with associated quarries and a heavy haulage division. His leadership has always been driven by a commitment to excellence, strong relationships, and a deep passion for the local community. Over the years, Charlie has not only overseen the company’s growth but also mentored and guided countless young people entering the civil construction industry. 

 

From the very start, Charlie was supported by his wife, Lynne, who has been the cornerstone of the company’s success. Working side by side with Charlie, Lynne played an integral role in shaping Whelan Group into a respected, multi-faceted business. Her hands-on approach and understanding of the company’s needs have ensured smooth operations and a strong sense of family values throughout the organisation. Lynne shares Charlie’s dedication to community and is always ready to support staff, clients, and anyone who engages with the business. 

As the company evolved, it welcomed new leadership to drive its future. Leigh Brennan, with 25 years of experience in roads and civil construction, now leads the strategic direction and internal operations as Chief Executive Officer. Leigh’s extensive knowledge of regional infrastructure and his ability to navigate complex projects have positioned Whelan Group as an industry leader, ensuring the company remains agile and forward-thinking. 

Our Executive Team

  • Charlie Whelan

    Owner/Managing Director

    Charlie established Whelans Swan Reach Pty Ltd in 1975 and has managed the business as it has developed to what it is today – East Gippsland’s largest and most professional civil construction company with associated quarries and heavy haulage business.

    Charlie has overall responsibility for business development and relationship networking whilst overseeing the subsidiary operations. He ensures stakeholder satisfaction and is passionate about his local community and supports, mentors, and guides the youth of today in the civil construction industry.

  • Lynne Whelan

    Lynne has been working side by side with Charlie as a husband and wife team since the inception of the Whelans company back in 1975. Lynne has been the corner stone and foundation of support to her husband and family during the growth of the company, and is very proud to have been an integral part of building Whelans into the successful, multi-faceted company that it has become.

    Lynne engages in many areas and fields within the company on a regular basis, is very hands on and in touch with the needs of all aspects of the company and its staffs requirements. She shares Charlie's passion for local community and is always there to support and guide all who engage with her.

  • Leigh Brennan

    Chief Executive Officer

    Leigh has 25 years’ experience in the roads and civil industry having an extensive knowledge of regional areas and their inner workings.

    Leigh comes from a pavement background and has developed his skill sets in the civil sector in more recent times. Leigh is responsible for the strategic direction and internal operations. Leigh leads the senior management team and is passionate about steering Whelans Group’s strategic future.

  • Tim Whelan

    Chief Operations Officer

    Tim has 20 years’ experience in the civil construction industry, with 15 years as a civil engineer after returning from studies in 2010. Tim has extensive knowledge from the ground up for the key areas of the business in earthworks, pavement, drainage and landslip works.

    Tim leads the major project team completing works above a specific value or complexity. Tim is responsible for the developing engineering area, as well as focusing on the safety structures and asset management of the business.

  • Chris Riley

    Director Commercial and Strategy

    Chris has over a decade of experience in professional services roles, providing both strategic financial direction and risk analysis and day-to-day financial oversight. More recently, he has managed the commercial outcomes of various major projects, continually delivering winning outcomes for clients.

    Chris utilises his experience as a chartered accountant across a variety of industries to deliver robust financial oversight and commercial advice at both a project and group level. He enjoys getting to know his clients and their projects at a granular level and facilitates a hands-on approach to commercial management, ensuring project appropriate risk and commercial oversight.

  • Bec Cox

    Chief Financial Officer

    Bec joined Whelans Group in 2011 and successfully completed her accounting degree in 2016.

    Bec is responsible for ensuring the finance team operates efficiently and effectively, managing the day-to-day financial aspects of the business whilst also ensuring that accurate and timely reporting is available to management and relevant financiers.

Fun


We believe that great work starts with a positive mindset. By creating an environment where enjoyment and creativity flourish, we encourage fresh ideas and innovative solutions. Whether it’s celebrating milestones, sharing a laugh during team meetings, or hosting events that bring us together, we make sure work feels rewarding and energizing.

Our Values

At Whelans, our values are the foundation of everything we do. They guide our decisions, shape our culture, and define how we interact with our clients, partners, and each other.

Honesty


Integrity is non-negotiable. We are committed to being truthful and sincere in every interaction—whether with clients, partners, or colleagues. This means clear communication, owning our mistakes, and always striving to do what’s right. Honesty builds trust, and trust is the foundation of lasting relationships.

Family


We treat each other with respect and care, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued. Collaboration and mutual support are at the heart of our success. We celebrate diversity, nurture talent, and build strong connections—because when we work together like family, we achieve more.

Trust


Reliability is key to everything we do. Our clients and partners count on us to deliver, and we take that responsibility seriously. By consistently meeting expectations and standing by our commitments, we earn confidence and build relationships that last.

Transparency


Openness drives progress. We share knowledge freely and encourage collaboration across teams, ensuring everyone has the information they need to succeed. From project updates to strategic decisions, we believe in clarity and accountability. Transparency empowers our people and strengthens our partnerships.

Technology

We utilise the latest equipment and software for our construction.

We employ trained personnel to operate up-to-date machines and technology.

We currently have in our inventory—

◥ 4 next gen 140

◥ Two CAT 140H Graders with GPS one or two receiver setup and UTS capability

◥ One CAT D7H Bulldozer with GPS two receiver setup

◥ One CAT 336EL Excavator with GPS two receiver setup

◥ One CAT 324DL Excavator with GPS two receiver setup

◥ Numerous base stations, total stations and mobile rovers to operate multiple sites at any given time.

This technology allows our engineers full command over data collection, site set out and preparation of as-built drawings which reduces our reliance on external surveyors and gives us complete control of works from concept to completion.

Utilising our machine control systems gives our on-site crews more functionality, speed and accuracy, which in turn enables our engineers to work between multiple projects with ease and precision.

This minimises downtime and maximises production.

Accreditations

We operate an Integrated Management System (IMS) that is certified by JAS-ANZ accredited auditors’ Sustainable Certification.

We have implemented and successfully maintained management systems for the following areas to the associated standards:

◥ Quality Management System—ISO 9001

◥ Environmental Management System—ISO 14001

◥ Occupational Health and Safety Management System—AS/NZS 4801

QUALITY MANAGEMENT

Our quality management plans are completed for projects that provide a means of clearly summarizing the relevant guidelines, references and requirements of the specific project.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Environmental management is a vital part of our construction process. Environmental management plans are completed prior to commencement on site and clearly define particular areas of sensitivity, site specific requirements and personnel responsibilities.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

Workplace safety is our number one priority. We have a thorough and comprehensive risk management process prior to commencing works and our management systems are regularly audited internally and externally.

Conducting routine inspections and scheduled training of our personnel in hazard management techniques ensures ongoing compliance at all levels. Our dedicated OH&S team constantly inspect all projects to ensure all employees and subcontractors are working in a safe manner.

FEDERAL SAFETY ACCREDITATION

Our safety management systems have maintained accreditation from the office of the Federal Safety Commissioner since 2016. Our FSC accreditation ensures that we are eligible to tender for federally funded projects.

NATIONAL PREQUALIFICATION SYSTEM (NPS)

We are the largest civil contractor in East Gippsland eligible to construct civil projects nationally up to $25 million. This is demonstrated by our NPS levels listed below:

◥ Road and bridge construction: R3, B2 and F020

◥ Maintenance: M2-BW, M2-PW and M2-RW

◥ Worksite Traffic Management Implementation: TGS and TMP

MAJOR ROAD PROJECTS VICTORIA (MRPV) CONSTRUCTION PANEL

In 2020, MRPV (now VIDA Roads) launched a Program Delivery Approach (PDA) model, a new approach to the procurement and delivery of major projects.

The PDA model ensures greater opportunities for contractors of all sizes to be part of the state’s investment in transport infrastructure with projects based on the contractor’s capability, capacity, past performance and ability to deliver value-for-money solutions.

Projects are awarded to contractors that are on one of five panels forming the MRPV Construction Panel. The MRPV Construction Panel includes more than 30 road-building companies that have been selected state-wide to a five-tiered system to construct Victoria’s largest road projects on a collaborative cost-plus model.

In September 2020, we were selected as a contractor and the only East Gippsland-based company on the panel. As one of just eight companies appointed to Panel 4, we are eligible to construct road projects of low complexity valued at up to $50 million.

We have also recently been accepted to join Panel 6 for road projects of up to $20 million.

As higher-tiered contractors are not eligible to bid for projects offered at these levels, the MRPV Construction Panel presents an enviable opportunity for Whelans Group to secure future works.

Integrated delivery model

We reduces delivery risk through an integrated model combining project management, ISOcertified environmental systems and self-performed construction capability.

IN-HOUSE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

• ISO 14001 certified Environmental Management System

• Project-specific Environmental Management Plans

• Flora and fauna interface management

• Contaminated material management

• Recycled First compliance

Self-perform capability

• Large-scale earthmoving fleet

• Six regional quarries and mobile crushing operations

• Integrated heavy haulage

• VicRoads-registered traffic management

• GPS-enabled machine-controlled construction

Integrated materials supply, plant control and environmental oversight strengthen cost certainty, program control and interface risk management across major transport programs.

Women of Whelans

At Whelans, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive culture for everyone. Our Women of Whelans (WOW) group was created to champion and empower women across every part of our business—whether in the office, on-site, in leadership roles, or out in the community.

Since its recent launch, WOW has already made an impact by supporting Share the Dignity’s #ItsInTheBag campaign, a remarkable initiative that provides essential items to people experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic violence, or facing tough times.

We’re passionate about finding new ways to make a difference and support women wherever we can. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing to drive positive change together.

Our Commitment to Community

We believe strong communities are built through connection, support, and shared experiences. While our projects span across Victoria, our roots—and our heart—are firmly in East Gippsland. That’s why we proudly support local clubs and organisations that make a real difference in our home region.

From grassroots sports to early childhood education, our sponsorships reflect our dedication to fostering health, teamwork, and opportunity for all. We’re honoured to support:

  • Bairnsdale Bullets Basketball

  • Bairnsdale Football Netball Club

  • East Gippsland United Football Club

  • Meerlieu Cricket Club

  • Mallacoota Judo

  • Mallacoota Pre School

  • East Gippsland Farm Dog Group

  • Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance

  • Gippsland Waratahs DA

  • Bairnsdale Christmas Parade

     

These partnerships are more than sponsorships—they’re a way of giving back to the community that shaped us. They also reflect the values that guide everything we do at Whelan’s: 

  • Fun – Encouraging sport and recreation brings joy and positive experiences to our communities.

  • Honesty & Transparency – Sharing who we support demonstrates openness and integrity in our actions.

  • Family – Many of these groups strengthen family connections and create inclusive environments for all ages.

  • Trust – Long-term support builds confidence that Whelan’s is a reliable partner committed to community wellbeing.

 As we continue to grow across Victoria, we remain dedicated to supporting East Gippsland—the place we proudly call home.

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