Cosmic Group by Outlook Publishing

COSMIC CAPABILITIES

Installing, maintaining, and servicing wind turbines across Australia and beyond, Cosmic Group has grown into a prominent force in the renewable energy landscape. We speak to Managing Director, Matt Crossan, about the company’s elite culture of safety and the exciting potential of wind power

Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Connell Privett

Renewable energy is an exciting, dynamic industry, and across the globe, wind turbines are rapidly advancing, harnessing new technologies, and growing both in size and in the vital importance they play in the ongoing energy transition.

Globally, wind power is an increasingly important source of intermittent renewable energy, used in many countries to lower energy costs and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Cosmic Group has positioned itself at the forefront of the wind energy industry, and while the company continues to adapt to changes in this burgeoning sector, it is also driving them.

With a proven reputation for safe, efficient, and cost-effective service delivery, Cosmic Group’s team of technical experts has delivered largescale renewable energy projects throughout Australia, New Zealand, and elsewhere overseas.

The company installs wind turbines and provides inspections, maintenance, and repairs to support ongoing productivity in the industry.

“Our technical knowledge of wind turbines is matched by our heavy crane capabilities. With these critical assets at the ready, we ensure the timely delivery of every project,” introduces Matt Crossan, Managing Director.

“We manage every aspect of delivery across the complete project timeline, from inception to installation and commissioning,” he sets out.

ENTERING THE ENERGY TRANSITION

Having worked on a multitude of electrical projects across Europe, with an initial grounding in the industry from his native home of Ireland, Crossan turned his attention to Australia after assessing the continent’s growing potential within the wind turbine industry.

“Our company was founded in 2016 by myself and my business partner, and we have since established a reputation for excellence. With head offices in both Australia and Ireland, Cosmic Group is positioned to remain at the forefront of the industry, locally and internationally,” he tells us.

Like Crossan, many of Cosmic Group’s technical experts have

worked on projects across the world.

As a result, their unrivalled experience and commitment to quality are highly regarded by the company’s numerous clients and industry partners.

Working together, the two factions of the business have consistently delivered projects ahead of schedule and under budget.

“We had been working across Europe and Africa for many years, but when we moved to Australia, we identified a gap in the market. We quickly grew from four technicians on our first wind farm to over 130 more recently.”

Crossan believes the Australian turbine industry to be vastly different to the more mature, developed European sector. Navigating this evolving landscape with a wealth of expertise, the team at Cosmic Group can expertly assess new trends and developments, thus initiating an appropriate response.

Juggling the challenges of environmental and financial approval processes, alongside the ongoing mission of sourcing skilled workers, has seen gradual progress since the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the company oversees a plethora of exciting new projects, all happening simultaneously.

WIND TURBINE INSTALLATION

Cosmic Group’s expert teams safely install and commission wind turbines in onshore and offshore locations.

“We construct new wind farms, expand existing facilities, and replace turbines that are ready to be decommissioned,” details Crossan.

“Turbines are subjected to

“WE MANAGE EVERY ASPECT OF DELIVERY ACROSS THE COMPLETE PROJECT TIMELINE, FROM INCEPTION TO INSTALLATION AND

– MATT CROSSAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, COSMIC GROUP

provide operational support to wind farms throughout Australia, where its highly qualified technicians ensure that the turbines’ productivity is maximised throughout the life of the asset.

“We also regularly conduct scheduled and emergency inspections, repairs, replacements, and retrofits.”

Heavy cranes are essential to installing and repairing wind turbines, and Cosmic Group’s specialised heavy crane team are skilled in rigging, ever-changing weather conditions and extreme loads. If blades aren’t checked regularly for damage and wear, a turbine’s yield can be reduced,” he expands. In this way, timely maintenance allows Cosmic Group to control costs, capitalise on revenue, and mitigate risk.

Today, the company is trusted to

de-rigging, and transportation.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to efficiently relocate a large-scale crane while maintaining the highest safety standards,” says Crossan.

Projects can easily be delayed if cranes or crane operators aren’t available at precisely the right time. By directly managing these services, the company simplifies communication and project management, aiming to remain safe, efficient, and cost-effective.

Heavy cranes need to be built on-site; therefore, to move the crane onto a new site, it must first be dismantled before being transported piece by piece, then rebuilt and rigged up.

“At Cosmic Group, our crew has expert technical knowledge of all large-scale heavy cranes, including telescopic and lattice boom cranes, as well as all-terrain and crawler cranes.

Best price guaranteed and complimentary airport pick up and drop off, with subsidised onsite accommodation for our remote clients

In Demand Courses:

High Risk Work Licences

• Rigging (Basic – Advanced)

• Scaffolding (Basic – Advanced)

• Dogging

• Slewing and Tower Cranes

• EWP (Over & under 11m)

• Forklift

• Personnel and Materials Hoist (HP)

Industry Short Courses

• Standard 11

• All Mining and Civil Construction machine operations

• Verification of Competencies (VoC)

• Working at Heights and Confined Spaces

A range of Certificate III and IV qualifications plus many more

s an industry-associated Registered Training Organisation (RTO), Ascent Training Solutions (32108) offers something no other RTO offers to our clients.

Best price guaranteed and complimentary airport pick up and drop off, we offer subsidised onsite accommodation for our remote clients.

Established in 2009 as a RTO, Ascent Training Solutions has since grown into one of the leading training providers in the region with an offering of 30+ Nationally Recognised Training programmes, delivered by experienced industry professionals. Our mission is to empower the success of our workforce through practical, engaging, and safetyfocused training. Whether you’re a seasoned tradie aiming to advance your skills, a business looking to elevate your team’s capability, or a newcomer eager to break into Australia’s booming construction and mining industries, we’re here to make it happen.

At Ascent Training Solutions, we emphasise real-world learning by providing theory alongside hands-on practice.

Our new, purpose-built training facility located in Richlands Queensland, supports real site conditions, including working as a team with other operators, machinery, and equipment. This approach ensures every graduate is qualified, confident, and ready for onsite work.

Our new purpose-built training facility has been designed to meet the needs of our clients, delivering nationally recognised training and assessment services for highrisk work licences, earthmoving tickets, and a range of Qualifications from Certificate III to Certificate IV in the civil construction and mining industries. Training can be delivered onsite or at our Richlands Training facility. Additionally, industry and government subsidies are available for selected courses and eligible participants. Our team goes the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction. This level of service is unique in our industry, and we are proud to work with you to avoid the unnecessary pressure in upskilling. For more information on courses, qualifications, and eligibility for subsidised training, please contact our supportive team on (07) 3865 4926 | 0404 765 828 | bookings@ascent.edu.au

bookings@ascent.edu.au

0404765828 | (07)38654926

www.ascent.edu.au

Kevin GallagherManaging Director

QWhy should companies and individuals invest in their future with Ascent Training Solutions?

Value for money. We may be a smaller business, but that allows us to truly care about each client and student. Our personalised approach ensures everyone receives the attention and support they need to succeed. A

How does Ascent Training Solutions go out of its way to ensure client satisfaction and make sure they achieve their goals?

We offer services that go beyond typical training programmes. With one-on-one training and ongoing support, we make sure our students never feel like they’re just part of a process. We create a relaxed, enjoyable learning environment because we believe that when people enjoy learning, they achieve more. A

What makes this level of service unique in your industry?

This level of personal attention and care has become a forgotten service in our industry. We stand out because we prioritise the individual needs of each student and client, ensuring their experience is as comfortable and rewarding as possible. A

As a small Queensland business, what ‘big company’ moves is Ascent Training Solutions making?

We continue to expand our scope by adding specialised courses to meet the growing needs of our clients. Additionally, we offer complementary services such as airport pick up/drop off and initiatives like Pizza Wednesdays and onsite accommodation, all aimed at creating a welcoming and supportive environment. A

Finally, how is Ascent Training Solutions achieving its mission to empower the success of its workforce through practical, engaging, and safety-focused training?

Empowering our workforce is at the core of what we do. It’s in our DNA. Half of our trainers and assessors hold a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety, and every single one of them has over 20 years of industry experience. This combination of expertise and practical knowledge ensures our students are not only skilled but are also trained with a strong focus on safety and real-world applications. A

John KooymanTraining Manager

Why should companies and individuals invest in their future with Ascent Training Solutions?

We provide high-quality training, and all of our trainers bring a wealth of industry experience to the table. What sets us apart is that we’re always prepared to go the extra mile for our students, ensuring they get the best possible learning experience. A

How do you and your team, as Trainers/Assessors, go out of your way to ensure client satisfaction and make sure they achieve their goals?

We make a point to truly listen to and observe our students as they work through their tasks. When needed, we spend one-on-one time with them to ensure they feel supported and confident in their abilities. A

What makes this level of service unique in your industry?

Our students leave our site with not only the skills they need but also the confidence to perform their tasks on the job. I always encourage them to reach out to me if they encounter challenges at work – I’m happy to offer advice whenever they need it. This level of ongoing support is rare in our industry. A

What makes you proud to work for Ascent Training Solutions?

We truly go the extra mile for our students. Here, they aren’t just numbers on a seat – they’re individuals whose success matters to us. A

Finally, what does it take to be a Trainer/Assessors who is able to empower the success of the workforce through practical, engaging, and safety-focused training?

It takes flexibility in the delivery of your training and willingness to adapt to each student’s needs. Being open to changing your methods ensures every student has the opportunity to succeed and reach their goals.

Tileah MilesRTO Manager

Why should companies and individuals invest in their future with Ascent Training Solutions?

We do it differently. We’re a team that genuinely wants to see our clients succeed. There’s something special happening here, but the best way to understand it is to come and experience it for yourself. A

How do you and your team go out of your way to ensure client satisfaction and make sure they achieve their goals?

It’s all about the people we employ; it’s who we are. Just the other day, I was onsite picking up a student’s ID so they could be assessed for their high risk work licence the next day. While it’s not something we can offer every time, when we can help, we will. That’s the level of care we provide – because their success is our success. A

What makes this level of service unique in your industry?

The lost art of customer service is alive and well at Ascent Training Solutions. Here, the training isn’t a production line —you’ll get trainers and assessors with over 20 years of real-world experience and an admin team that’s handpicked to help you succeed from day one. Sadly, this kind of personal touch is rare in our industry, but that’s exactly what makes us stand out. A

As a small Queensland business, what ‘big company’ moves is Ascent Training Solutions making?

We stay competitive with our pricing and offer complementary services like airport pickup, drop-off, and even accommodation. Plus, we pride ourselves on staying flexible – always adapting to industry demands and the evolving needs of our clients. A

Q Finally, What makes you proud to work for Ascent Training Solutions?

I’ve been with Ascent Training Solutions for almost nine years now, and in my management role, I’ve had the opportunity to shape the company’s goals and services into something unique. It’s been an incredible journey, aligning the company’s mission not just with Kevin’s vision but also with my own values. That’s what makes me proud to be part of this team. A

Robbie WatsonClient

QWhy should companies and individuals invest in their future with Ascent Training Solutions?

Honestly, the other training companies I’ve used in the past don’t even come close. That’s 100 percent the truth. A Q

How does Ascent Training Solutions go out of its way to ensure client satisfaction and make sure they achieve their goals?

Ascent Training Solutions went above and beyond for me. I flew in from out of state, and Kevin himself picked me up from the airport and took me to their accommodation facility. That level of personal service really stood out. A

What makes this level of service unique?

It’s the convenience. Having onsite accommodation and being able to start your course right away in the morning is a game changer. Everything is right there – super convenient. A

What keeps you coming back to Ascent Training Solutions to upskill?

What keeps me coming back is how everything is set up. The training facility and accommodation being in one place is just too convenient. Plus, Kevin, John, and Robbie are great guys – I connected with them right away. That’s why I’ll always come back for any future training. A Q

What are three words to describe Ascent Training Solutions, their trainers, and staff?

Positive, polite, and professional. A

START-TO-FINISH PROJECT DELIVERY

Cosmic Group works closely with wind farms and turbine manufacturers to ensure that each project runs smoothly from start to finish.

The company’s service delivery includes:

• Transport to site and offloading of components

• Preparation of each turbine component

• Foundation levelling

• Erection of structures

• Component installation and mechanical completion

• Commissioning

“WE’RE COMMITTED TO CARING FOR OUR PEOPLE TO EQUIP THEM WITH THE TRAINING AND RESOURCES TO DO THEIR JOBS WELL, AND TO KEEP THEM SAFE AT WORK EVERY SINGLE DAY”

– MATT CROSSAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, COSMIC GROUP

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With in-house capabilities to move and maintain each crane, we’re able to deliver projects more efficiently.”

SAFETY AS A PRIORITY

People are undoubtedly the most valuable asset at Cosmic Group, and ensuring their safety is its number one priority.

The company considers this to be key to all its work, and historically, its positive safety culture has been the foundation of the entire business.

“As the renewable energy industry grows rapidly, new risks are likely to emerge alongside new opportunities. We believe it’s our responsibility to remain alert to these risks and lead the way in delivering on our promise of elite service,” Crossan prides.

Cosmic Group aims to achieve an accident-free workplace while providing the highest level of quality and efficiency for its clients. By always remaining alert to opportunities,

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the company maintains a positive safety culture through meaningful conversations and regular evaluations.

On top of this, a dedicated health and safety manager works closely with all levels of personnel to address hazards and mitigate risks.

“The company’s safety management system incorporates strict procedures to ensure work is carried out to the highest standard. We strive for continuous improvement and the best possible safety culture,” he elaborates.

“Our commitment to safety is embedded in everything we do. We recruit with care to make sure we have the right people in the correct roles, and our rigorous induction takes the form of an introductory course that covers our high expectations, training,

and general safety guidelines, including all Cosmic Group policies and procedures.”

All Cosmic Group staff must complete comprehensive safety and professional onboarding, including manual handling, fire awareness, first aid, working at heights, digging, and rigging.

New employees are mentored by experienced staff, ensuring they have all the support they need to produce excellent results. Every technician is Global Wind Organisation (GWO) accredited.

“We’ve got some of the best technical experts in the world working with us. Every day, they’re helping us reach new heights and training those around them to the same standards of workmanship,” details Crossan.

“We’re committed to caring for our people to equip them with the training and resources to do their jobs well, and to keep them safe at work every single day.”

In this way, Cosmic Group hires people who demonstrate and mirror this same steadfast commitment to safety, excellence, and teamwork.

“Moving forward, our ambition is to provide the best service we possibly can. This is such a high-risk business, especially when you’re operating large machinery, cranes, and components, often in very difficult locations that are extremely hard to navigate. We want to consistently maintain the highest safety standards,” he concludes proudly.