PKF and Dredging Solutions: Shockproofing growth in Australia’s dredging industry

When Bill Kelly founded Dredging Solutions in 2010, it was the natural evolution of his earlier water treatment business, CRS Water. From humble beginnings in Castle Hill, Sydney, to today, the company has grown into one of the most versatile dredging and dewatering specialists in Australia, recognised for its ability to solve complex sludge and sediment challenges that others cannot, delivering innovative solutions across the country.

But with growth comes complexity. Expanding operations across NSW, WA, and SA, managing multiple facilities, and servicing large-scale clients required not only operational excellence but also financial foresight. That’s where we stepped in.

Shockproofing growth with PKF

In 2023, Dredging Solutions partnered with PKF, engaging one of our Business Advisory Principals, Luke Storey, in Newcastle to provide strategic financial oversight. Bill described Luke as the “Rain Man of accounting, he is always available, quick to grasp complex structures, and able to provide practical, actionable advice.”

Luke has advised clients from a range of industry sectors and businesses of all sizes, from small family-owned entities to large, listed companies, and understands the challenges and opportunities that arise.

Through close collaboration, PKF helped Dredging Solutions implement risk management strategies that safeguarded assets and created firewalls against potential lawsuits or disputes. This proactive approach meant the company could continue to pursue ambitious projects without fear of financial exposure. At the same time, Luke and the team worked to strengthen cash flow management, ensuring that the business maintained a healthy balance sheet even while investing in new facilities and equipment.

Equally important was the strategic structuring of operations. With multiple facilities across NSW, WA, and SA, Dredging Solutions required a corporate setup that could support national expansion while remaining agile. PKF provided clear, practical advice on how to organise the business for efficiency and protection, allowing Bill and his team to focus on what they do best — delivering innovative dredging solutions Australia-wide.

For Bill, the partnership has been transformative. The responsiveness from Luke has given Dredging Solutions confidence that no matter how convoluted the challenge, PKF can provide clarity. By embedding financial risk management into the company’s DNA, PKF has enabled Dredging Solutions to grow with confidence, knowing that its future is protected.

Building strong client relationships

At the heart of Dredging Solutions’ success is its unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. Bill has always believed that the easiest business is repeat business; if you focus on making clients happy, everything else falls into place. This philosophy has earned the company a reputation for reliability and innovation, with many clients returning time and again for new projects. From municipal councils to major utilities, Dredging Solutions has become a trusted partner in solving complex dredging and dewatering challenges.

Our involvement has strengthened this client-first approach. By shockproofing the company’s finances and protecting its assets, PKF has allowed Dredging Solutions to engage with clients from a position of confidence. The business can now pursue standing work panels, secure long-term contracts, and balance new customer acquisition with servicing existing relationships, all while knowing that its financial foundations are secure. This combination of operational excellence and financial resilience has created a virtuous cycle: strong client relationships drive repeat business, which in turn fuels growth, supported every step of the way by PKF’s strategic advisory.

For Luke, “seeing Bill and the business continue to achieve goals is very rewarding,” he said.

“I get great satisfaction getting the best outcomes for my clients.”

Clear waters ahead

Dredging Solutions is positioned to continue its growth trajectory, confident in both its operational capabilities and financial resilience. With our guidance, the business is not only expanding its footprint but also safeguarding its future.

At PKF, we understand that growth without protection can be risky. Whether you’re expanding nationally, diversifying services, or simply looking to strengthen your financial foundations, our advisers are here to help.

As of October 2025*.

Ready to shockproof your business and scale with confidence? Contact PKF today.