We are Opifex
Opifex is a specialist geotechnical engineering firm based in Western Australia. We deliver practical, research-informed solutions for projects of all sizes. Our work combines advanced technical capability with strong field experience so our advice is reliable, efficient and grounded in real site conditions.
We support developers, consultants, contractors and legal professionals who need clear geotechnical guidance that balances technical accuracy with commercial realities.
The Team
Our team has produced more than 400 publications in leading international journals and conferences. This demonstrates our commitment to advancing geotechnical practice and applying the latest research to projects across Perth and regional WA.

Dr. Fillippo Gaone
Managing Director
Filippo leads Opifex with more than 15 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and construction across Germany and Australia. He holds a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering and has delivered projects ranging from small developments to major infrastructure. His expertise includes foundation design, ground improvement and earth retention. With strong experience in project delivery and engineering management, Filippo ensures each solution is technically sound and practical to implement on site.

Prof Barry Lehane
Technical Lead
Barry brings forty years of combined academic and industry experience. A PhD graduate of Imperial College London, he has advised on major infrastructure projects, transport corridors and complex small sites, both onshore and offshore. With more than 300 publications, Barry is recognised internationally for shaping modern geotechnical engineering practice. His research-informed approach ensures clients receive best practice, pragmatic guidance aligned with current industry standards.

Dr. Colm O’Beirne
Field Services Lead
Drawing on a broad background in geotechnical engineering, Colm blends hands-on site experience with strong analytical capability. He has worked with leading consultancies in Western Australia and New Zealand, as well as major contractors in Ireland. His experience includes complex ground conditions, foundation design and detailed site investigation. Colm holds a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering and provides efficient, reliable and commercially focused solutions supported by practical field insight and technical rigour.

Dr. Aflizal Arafianto
Geotechnical Engineer
Aflizal brings significant international experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong mix of academic research and hands-on project delivery across Southeast Asia and Australia. Currently completing a PhD at the University of Western Australia, his expertise includes foundation design, deep excavation, landslide analysis and advanced numerical modelling. With experience as both a consulting engineer and university lecturer, Aflizal has worked on bridges, tunnels, dams and major infrastructure projects, supported by certifications and award recognition in the field. Known for his rigorous approach and practical mindset, he applies finite element analysis and evidence-based methods to deliver reliable, well-considered solutions for complex ground conditions.

Julia Koehn
Office Manager
Julia is the organisational heart of Opifex, keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly and supporting the Directors and wider team. With a sharp eye for detail and a proactive approach, she manages accounts, oversees payroll, and ensures the office operates efficiently. Her role spans financial administration, supplier onboarding, travel coordination and project support. Reliable and adaptable, Julia is the go-to for all things operational, always ready to take on new tasks and keep the business moving. Her support allows the engineering team to focus on technical delivery, knowing the operational side of the business is in steady hands.
Why Opifex?
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Deep academic expertise backed by decades of research and leadership
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Proven on-site capability across complex onshore and offshore environments
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Practical and commercially aware solutions suited to Australian ground conditions
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