ACCIONA has commenced a partnership with Ironside Resources on the M80 Ring Road Completion project in Melbourne, awarding a two-year contract to create employment pathways for Defence veterans while supporting major civil construction works.

Ironside Resources, a veteran-owned employment provider, recently launched its on-site operations following an introduction event with Co-Founder and Director Glen Ferrarotto, the M80 management team and members of the wider project.

The visit also marked the arrival of a Kenworth T610SAR tipper truck featuring visual artwork honouring Australians who have lost their lives in combat.

The truck is operated by veterans who have entered the civil infrastructure sector through entry level roles. Their work provides hands-on experience in major road development, quarry operations and heavy vehicle management.

While on the project, the truck will be used to haul soil from and around the site.
Tim Myles, Social Procurement Manager on the M80, welcomed the initiative.

"It's great to see us partnering with such an incredible organisation. We're looking forward to seeing the amazing stuff they do with veterans and help expand their business in the infrastructure sector," Mr Myles said.

When not in operation, the truck is displayed at truck shows, community events and commemorative services including ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day. These appearances raise awareness and funds for veterans and their families, strengthening the broader social impact of the partnership.

Ironside Resources plans to expand its fleet to include additional trucks across Australia, each featuring artwork that shares stories of service and sacrifice.

Future concepts include themes focusing on nurses of the Second World War, Indigenous servicemen and women of the First World War, peacekeeping deployments and major events such as the Bombing of Darwin.

The partnership contributes to long term opportunities for veterans while supporting ACCIONA’s commitment to inclusive employment and meaningful social outcomes across major infrastructure projects