On Sunday 7 January 2025, a grain silo at Champion Flour Mill unexpectedly collapsed, spilling approximately 500 tonnes of grain across the site and into the neighbouring car yard, where numerous vehicles were damaged. The incident created a significant safety risk and brought normal operations to an immediate halt, requiring a rapid and carefully coordinated response.

Following initial assessments by Champion Flour Mill, Silo Specialists, and WorkSafe New Zealand, approval was granted for Southern Demolition to begin emergency remediation works. The scope of works included the removal of a suspended ladder and platform that had been left hanging from the overhead walkway, clearing the large volume of spilled grain, and safely dismantling and removing the remaining unstable silo structure.

Working alongside Titan Cranes, Southern Demolition mobilised specialised equipment and personnel to the site without delay. Using cranes and a man cage, the team safely removed the suspended ladder and platform, eliminating a major hazard before ground works could begin. A combination of loaders, excavators, and trucks was then used to efficiently recover and remove the spilled grain from both the mill site and surrounding affected areas, allowing neighbouring businesses to regain access and resume operations.

Once the site had been stabilised, the remaining silo structure was systematically dismantled and transported to Southern Demolition’s yard for secure storage and further inspection. This enabled silo specialists to conduct a detailed investigation into the cause of the structural failure while ensuring the site remained safe throughout the process.

Despite the challenging circumstances and the need to work within strict safety controls, Southern Demolition completed the emergency works efficiently and safely. The team’s rapid mobilisation, effective coordination with multiple stakeholders, and ability to respond under pressure enabled Champion Flour Mill to meet the critical timeframes outlined in its Business Continuity Plan, allowing production to recommence as quickly as possible and minimising disruption to the business.