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A 40-metre construction crane at the North Richmond Wastewater Treatment Plant has officially been christened “Pink Fluffy Unicorn”, following a creative naming competition involving local primary school students.
The winning name, submitted by Richmond North Public School student Indi Patterson, was announced at a special community event on Thursday 27 November, where students, teachers, parents, project representatives and local MP Robyn Preston gathered for the unveiling.
More than 45 attendees joined the celebration at the Bells Line of Road site, with students donning bright pink high-vis vests as they toured the major construction works and posed for photos in front of the newly named crane. The event included a formal welcome, a presentation on how cranes support large-scale infrastructure projects, and the official banner reveal.
Community Meets Construction
The naming competition, run by Sydney Water and construction partner BMD, invited students from Grades 1 to 4 at Richmond North Public School to submit imaginative names for the towering crane—an initiative designed to spark interest in engineering and the infrastructure that supports the region’s growth.
BMD Operations Manager NSW/ACT Yiannis Stavreas said the program was about engaging the next generation.
“Programs like this spark curiosity, highlight the range of careers in construction and engineering and show students that infrastructure builds communities. We know there’s a national skills shortage in construction, and we believe it starts with helping children see the creativity, teamwork and purpose behind what we do,” he said.
Dozens of colourful entries were received, with BMD and Sydney Water narrowing the list to a top five before staff across both organisations cast a final vote. Other shortlisted entries included Floyd Hugo River Luca, The Liftr, Gerald, The Rookie and Constructor.
Indi, whose winning entry captured hearts across the project team, said:
“Pink Fluffy Unicorn is very pretty and a good name for the crane. People will love it.”
A Crane With Personality—and Purpose
Sydney Water Program Director Darren Hayward said the response from students demonstrated genuine curiosity about how essential services are built and delivered.
“It’s fantastic to see young people taking an interest in how essential infrastructure is built and operated, and this initiative reflects our partnership’s focus on engaging local communities,” Mr Hayward said.
“The Upgrade is a vital part of supporting growth across the Hawkesbury region, and we’re proud to see that sense of community ownership come to life through this initiative.”
The Pink Fluffy Unicorn crane has already played a significant role in the 18-metre-deep wet-well excavation, and will continue to support works throughout the Richmond System Wastewater Upgrade until project completion in 2026.
A Moment to Celebrate
Thursday’s event provided media, families and students with behind-the-scenes insight into one of the Hawkesbury’s key infrastructure projects, along with interviews and photo opportunities with the brightly named crane.
With a touch of magic and a burst of imagination from the region’s youngest residents, the Pink Fluffy Unicorn now stands tall not only as a vital construction asset, but as a new local icon.
