Earthmoving Equipment Magazine April/May 2023

100+ PAGE

SEE THE VERY LATEST: Earthmoving machinery, earthmoving attachments, agricultural machinery, mowing equipment, trucks, boats, bikes, and more!

EVERYTHING IN ONE PLACE!

Excavate the easy way

Built on decades of experience, Volvo’s range of E-Series excavators are the perfect combination of power and stability. Extremely versatile with superior digging force, quick cycle times and outstanding fuel efficiency, you can expect smooth operation and increased productivity in the toughest conditions.

with comfort

INDUSTRY-LEADING CAB

INDUSTRY-LEADING CAB

Experience the Volvo difference in Volvo’s world class cab built with operator comfort and safety in mind.

Experience the Volvo difference in Volvo’s world class cab built with operator comfort and safety in mind.

Boasting superior visibility with slim cab pillars and a spacious environment with ample storage, Volvo’s renowned industryleading cab design offers a comfortable, low noise environment to allow operators to be more efficient and more productive than ever.

Boasting superior visibility with slim cab pillars and a spacious environment with ample storage, Volvo’s renowned industryleading cab design offers a comfortable, low noise environment to allow operators to be more efficient and more productive than ever.

with accuracy

with accuracy

DIG ASSIST TECHNOLOGY

DIG ASSIST TECHNOLOGY

Utilising the Volvo Co-Pilot in-cab interface, Dig Assist provides real-time guidance for operators to ensure job parameters are met more accurately with improved site safety.

Utilising the Volvo Co-Pilot in-cab interface, Dig Assist provides real-time guidance for operators to ensure job parameters are met more accurately with improved site safety.

Levelling sites, digging trenches, grading slopes, and creating site profiles has never been easier. The operator can visualise the bucket and the machine’s position with indicator guidelines for trenching.

Levelling sites, digging trenches, grading slopes, and creating site profiles has never been easier. The operator can visualise the bucket and the machine’s position with indicator guidelines for trenching.

A huge thank you to our Major Sponsors. It has been a pleasure working with you.

Gold Sponsor

Scan to buy tickets

LOCATION

The Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road, Eastern Creek New South Wales. How to get here: Via the M4 motorway or the Western Highway.

ENTRY FEE

$10.00 pr adult plus booking fee (children under 16 free).

DISABLED ACCESS

The majority of the Expo site is wheelchair friendly. Dragway site is level, fully paved and provides easy access for visiting all exhibitor sites.

ACCOMMODATION

There is a variety of accommodation options in the immediate area.

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

Food and drink vans are located throughout the site and there is a licensed bar and hospitality area.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Live entertainment will run throughout the weekend.

TOILET FACILITIES

Toilet facilities are provided throughout the Expo site.

CAR PARKING

There is expansive free car parking facilities on site provided for visitors.

FIRST AID/EMERGENCY

Personnel are on hand to administer any first aid that may be required.

Komatsu returns as DD&T 2023 Gold Sponsor

Komatsu is excited to be back as Gold Sponsor of Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo 2023

Komatsu will be the Gold Sponsor of the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo again this year, with a big team presence planned to showcase its innovative range of Smart Construction technology. Located at Stand B1, Komatsu will have one of the largest displays of machinery and technology at the expo, and Chris Moroz, Komatsu’s Sales Manager – Central Region, says a big focus of its marquee will be Smart Construction, a suite of offerings that improve

productivity and safety in the construction, quarrying, and mining industries, through the application of unique technology and integrated products.

“The tools in our Smart Construction suite are designed to improve communication and connectivity between our customers, their machines, and their materials,” he says. “They cover unique solutions such as intelligent machine control, drone data collection to create

3D terrain maps, site dashboard visualisation and remote operator support.”

Komatsu will have three Intelligent Machine Control (iMC) machines on display: the PC360LCi-11 36-tonne excavator, the 23-tonne PC210LCi-11, and the D71PXi-24 and D65EXi-18 mid-sized dozers.

“iMC enables operators to program 3D design data directly into a machine, and delivers major productivity benefits for customers, from controlling cut depth while avoiding track shoe-slip on the dozers, to increased accuracy and automatic grading capabilities on the excavators,” Chris says.

Komatsu will also have its Retrofit Kit (RFK)

Komatsu will have one of the largest displays of machinery and technology at DD&T 2023.

“We’re excited to have these machines onsite at DD&T and showcase Komatsu’s latest innovations for our construction customers.”

The Komatsu team can be found at Stand B1 at the expo.

Komatsu’s sales and support teams will be out in force to answer questions.

machinery to perform digital construction, using ICT features such as 3D machine guidance, payload management, and 3D construction data collection.

“RFKs can be fitted to a variety of machine sizes, makes and models, including older machines, making it an appealing addition for many of our customers,” he says.

Chris says Komatsu will also have a large presence from its sales and support teams from right across the business at DD&T.

“Visitors will be able to stop by and have a chat with representatives from our Smart Construction, recruitment, aftermarket, Komtrax, and Portal teams for any issues or questions on the machines and technology on display,” he says.

“They can also catch our PC138US-11 RFK and PC210LCi-11 in action across the three days at the demo site, and we’ll be running some exciting competitions where attendees can have the chance to win prizes, and take advantage of our show special offers.

“Diesel Dirt &Turf is a great opportunity for us to showcase our latest technology and innovations, and connect with customers and industry – the whole team looks forward to it each year. Come by Stand B1 to find out more about Komatsu, its products and services, and its people. We look forward to seeing you there.”

Chris says Komatsu will be running some exciting competitions at the company’s demo site.

Three iMC machines will be on display at the event.

The Smart Construction suite includes drone data collection to create 3D terrain maps.

SELL WITH US

The Pickles team is dedicated to maximising the return on every asset. We have a highly trained team of international valuation experts who have the knowledge, deep experience and tools needed to provide accurate appraisals and specialist advice on how to enhance value. We stand by our valuations, providing sellers the assurance of protection in sale returns.

We understand that every situation is different. Our team brings hundreds of years’ experience in customising solutions that suit the unique needs of our clients. With expertise across multiple sales channels, we will recommend the most effective remarketing strategy based on our deep knowledge of industry trends, potential buyers, and current market conditions, to minimise any risk and maximise the value of every asset put to sale.

Talk to us today about partnering with Pickles.

For more information, contact Matt Blanch on 0428 163 083

Exhibitor’s list

Exhibitor’s list

LANEWAY LIST:

LANEWAY LIST:

Universal

1300apprentice

XCMG: robust, reliable, reputable

With more than 40 years of industry experience, XCMG has built a global reputation for innovation, reliability, and performance throughout its entire range of construction, agriculture, and industrial machinery.

Mini excavators

XCMG’s mini excavator range is one of Australia’s newest and most impressive lineups of high-performance, value-for-money diggers. Starting with the compact yet powerful XE17U 1.7 tonner purpose-built for tight access work, up to the robust and powerful XE80U designed to dominate virtually any construction project, XCMG has you covered.

With premium engines from renowned manufacturers including Kubota and Yanmar, plus top-quality componentry by Kawasaki, Bosch-Rexroth, Eaton and Miller, XCMG mini excavators are built tough to perform, and durable to last.

Large excavators

XCMG heavy excavators are renowned worldwide for their exceptionally high power, excellent lifting capability, extensive reach, impressive operator comfort and overall maximum operator satisfaction.

Available in various excavator sizes from 10 to 50 tonne to cater for virtually any requirement or project, the entire range offers exceptional hydraulic performance, cycle times and breakout force. With premium Cummins and Isuzu engines, plus exceptional componentry by Kawasaki, Nabco and Miller, XCMG heavy excavators offer unmatched value for money. In addition, cabins are spacious and comfortable for even the longest days on the job, including sound dampening and state of the art controls. In addition, XCMG excavators are designed for efficient serviceability and minimal downtime, using only the most reliable components for premium longevity.

Simply, XCMG heavy excavators are a musthave for any owner who requires comfort, versatility, and performance at a competitive price.

XCMG’s impressive range of 11-20 tonne wheel loaders is fast becoming a key talking point in the Australian machinery marketplace. Impressively priced, XCMG loaders are uniquely powerful, rugged, energy efficient, safe, and comfortable – as well as being simple to service and operate.

From the 11 tonne XC938 model up to the 20 tonne XC958, XCMG loaders include premium features such as Cummins engines, automatic ZF transmissions, wet axles and brake systems, spacious and ergonomic cabs, and digital gauges displaying the loader’s vital functions and data.

XCMG loaders are designed from the ground up to work hard with reliability and efficiency, whilst also providing a premium operator experience in terms of comfort, control, safety, and serviceability.

Road compaction rollers and graders

Already favourites with various major mine sites throughout Australia, XCMG road graders and compaction rollers are competitively priced and offer high-power, heavy-duty work capability, impressive operator comfort and overall renowned satisfaction.

controllability, XCMG road machinery also offer premium reliability and heavy-duty work capability using only the finest componentry. Furthermore, XCMG machines are designed with safety and comfort of operation at the absolute forefront, with spacious ROPS / FOPS cabs, double emergency stops, reverse cameras, spacious cabins, ergonomic controls and much more.

Access equipment

XCMG elevated work platforms feature compact designs, easy transport, simple and smooth controls, tight turning radiuses, and reliable performance.

Australian Standards compliant, all models offer exceptional lift heights, working capacities and platform sizes, plus minimal maintenance and service requirements. Select models are also available in your choice of electric or hydraulic lift functionality, giving maximum flexibility and versatility to suit the requirements and preferences of owners and operators.

Nationwide backup and support

With dealerships and service agents throughout Australia, your investment in XCMG machinery not only delivers a premium machine, but also the peace of mind and minimal downtime that comes with unmatched after-sales support. XCMG’s primary focus is to ensure your complete satisfaction throughout your machine’s lifetime and beyond, by providing the best equipment, parts, service, and assistance available.

For more information about XCMG’s diverse range of construction, mining, and agriculture equipment, visit: www.xcmgmachinery.com.au

As the world’s third largest construction equipment manufacturer, XCMG delivers a machinery range that’s designed to perform, and built to last.

XCMG machinery is supported by dealerships and service agents throughout Australia.

XCMG’s mini excavator range balances powerful performance with premium value, exceptional reliability, and impressive build quality.

The next level

WesTrac thinks big for this year’s Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo.

There will be a host of new equipment on display at WesTrac’s stand for the 2023 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo (DD&T), including something a bit removed from the expected yellow Cat® machines.

Alongside the extensive range of excavators, loaders, dozers, and paving equipment, the Cat-branded Ducati race bike of Australian Grand Prix motorcycle racer Jack Miller will be on show.

Miller, who rides for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, used the bike in the 2022 ASBK MotoGP race in South Australia. Unlike the other equipment on display, the Ducati won’t be available for willing buyers to snap up, but given the popularity of the event last year, WesTrac expects a big number of visitors.

Bigger means better

After taking out the award for Best Stand at the 2022 event, WesTrac has upped the ante for 2023 with more Cat equipment on display, a new Cat Attachments stage, a larger selection of Cat merchandise to purchase, and a dig pit that will be used for demonstrations, allowing visitors to test drive one of the Cat Next Gen Mini Excavators or Skid Steer Loaders.

WesTrac will have more than $5 million worth of new construction equipment on display, including 10 different Next Gen excavators that range from the sub-2-tonne Cat 301.5 Mini Excavator right up to the large Next Gen 349 3D Excavator.

According to WesTrac Retail Construction Business Manager James Konz, the Cat Next Gen range is proving highly popular with construction industry operators.

“From sole operators using one of the smaller

of the Next Gen machines are proving their worth,” James says.

“The amount of technology that comes standard with these machines is industry leading, with across-the-board benefits including improved safety, productivity, and efficiency as a result.

“When you add on some of the optional extras, it can take that performance to a whole new level.”

Alongside the ever-popular excavator range, WesTrac will also showcase some of its Cat Skid Steer loaders, Wheel and Compact

There will also be a range of paving equipment and a big display of the latest Cat attachments, which are key to increasing the versatility, productivity, and utility of Cat machines.

Some of these attachments will be showcased in live demonstrations, while WesTrac specialists will be on hand to talk to operators keen to understand the options available.

Careers in focus

WesTrac also aims to use the event to showcase career and training opportunities. Through its WesTrac Institute, the company offers a range of training options including apprenticeships and trade upgrades.

James says WesTrac offers a significant number and diverse range of career choices to people.

“With rapid advances in equipment technology, the sorts of roles are a far cry from the ‘grease monkey’ mechanical trades of days gone by,” he says.

“Caterpillar® is a world leader in automation and operator assist technologies and that brings with it a vast range of career opportunities. Heavy diesel mechanics today are very much technicians and technologists with a broad cross-section of in-demand skills.

“While our display is designed to showcase Cat equipment, its other purpose is to inspire you – and hopefully your children – to explore exciting career options and opportunities in the construction industry and at WesTrac.”

For more information, visit: www.westrac.com.au

WesTrac took out the award for Best Stand at DD&T 2022, and is upping the ante for 2023.

WesTrac will have more than $5 million worth of new construction equipment on display at DD&T 2023.

DIESEL, DIRT & TURF WesTrac returns to Friday 21 – Sunday 23 April

THE LATEST IN CAT® EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY

WesTrac returns to the Sydney Dragway in April 2023 for the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo (DD&T) - Australia’s largest construction industry expo and a great day out for earthmovers and their families.

Say hello to YELLO Equipment

The annual National Diesel Dirt & Turf (DD&T) Expo is fast approaching and YELLO Equipment is proud to announce the team will be joining in on the festivities and offering a first-hand look at their remarkable line up of SANY Earthmoving machines.

The three-day exhibition will give attendees the chance to explore and join in celebrations of the industry’s businesses, culture, and best of all – SANY excavators. Come and be a part of the action, with colleagues, family, friends, and the community!

To celebrate the biggest construction expo in Australia, YELLO Equipment have prepared a robust line up of machines that are ready to assist you on your next project. There will be a wide range of sizes and models on display, from mini, small, medium, and large excavators to wheel loaders and wheeled excavators.

Additionally, the ‘mighty mini’ SY16U will be on show and available for purchase in the popular ‘Tow & Go’ package, providing all the essentials you need to get work done efficiently in one incredible deal. The package includes:

• The SY16U – The compact 1.7-tonne excavator is perfect for the toughest jobs in the tightest spaces. The SY16U could quickly become your go-to for any earthmoving projects.

• A Sureweld SW2600 trailer – This fantastic trailer is a great option for transporting your new machine with an impressively low tare weight of 400kg and a carrying capacity of up to 2200kg.

Three Bucket Pack – These are quintessential

“DD&T provides a tremendous chance to not only showcase the quality of our machines, but to gather feedback and comments, while connecting with people in these communities who may not have previously had the opportunity to witness the phenomenal work of a SANY machine.” he says.

The YELLO Equipment team will be present and ready to answer any questions, provide walkarounds, and give attendees the opportunity to get up-close and personal with a wide range of machinery.

Whether you’re in the market for some new earthmoving equipment, are looking to upgrade your current machinery, or simply want to learn more about the latest industry trends – the YELLO Equipment team are there with you all the way.

The SANY Australia stand is truly a must-see for DD&T 2023. If you’re a fan of big, powerful machinery, join YELLO Equipment and SANY for an action-packed three days of people, food, and most importantly – extraordinary machinery.

YELLO Equipment will have a robust line up of SANY excavators on display at DD&T 2023.

The team from YELLO Equipment will be on hand to provide machinery walkarounds and answer questions.

Viva Energy is one of Australia’s leading energy companies, with more than 1350 Shell-branded service stations and 55 fuel import terminals and depots nationally. It also has a strong retail convenience offering, with the recent purchase of more than 700 Coles Express service stations, and the sole right to use the Shell brand in Australia for the sale of retail fuels.

It is also an exclusive macro distributor for Shell-branded lubricants, has a strategic relationship with Vitol for the supply of crude oil and imported products, and supplies 24 per cent of Australia’s fuel needs. Further, its Shell Fuel Card service is accepted at 1350 service stations across the country.

“We’re proud to be Australian, proud of our 120-year history, and extremely proud of our achievements,” said Renee Reilly, Viva Energy Sales and Marketing Manager – Lubricants. “We help Australians reach their destinations by making, importing, and delivering the fuels, lubricants, chemicals, and bitumen they need to get there. We play a major role in getting people and goods from A to B.”

Shell has a history of innovation in lubricants and was the first supplier to market cleaner, purer lubricants made from natural gas. Significant investment in research and development has led to technologically advanced products that are reliable in even the toughest Australian conditions, and across all industries including construction, quarrying, and mining.

“Shell invests significantly in technical collaboration and has over 350 product application specialists that work closely with OEMs and customers to develop innovative lubricant solutions,” says Silvana Farrugia, Technical Expert from Viva Energy. “Our lubricant products can deliver value but also improve business outcomes.”

How can Viva Energy help?

“Our customer benefits include lower maintenance costs, longer equipment life and reduced energy consumption – these are some of the reasons that Shell has recently celebrated 16 consecutive years as number one global lubricants supplier,” Renee said.

Who is Viva Energy?

With local expertise backed by a global brand, Viva Energy’s lubricant sales and technical team is well placed to identify and implement best in class lubrication solutions for customers.

“Online, on-site or over the phone, we are always available to resolve your lubrication questions, so you will know the right oil for any application fast,” Silvana said.

There are several helpful and convenient tools customers can use to assist with every aspect of product selection and lubrication management, including the Lubricants Online Store, Viva Energy Technical Help Desk, and Shell LubeMatch.

As lubricants, greases and coolants are critical machine components, Shell works with leading equipment manufacturers to make sure that their products meet the requirements of their equipment and the tough working environments that they operate. The Shell range of lubricants carries a wide range of industry and OEM approvals to meet and exceed the requirements of equipment manufacturers.

“At a local level, Viva Energy technical staff have a technical relationship with all key OEMs,” Silvana said. “This technical relationship enables consistent information flow between all parties, enabling us to work with customers to get the most out of their equipment.”

environments, with one of the most flexible and adaptable supply chains, including both local fuels refining and global sourcing. Viva Energy owns, leases, and operates a portfolio of established infrastructure assets complemented by third-party warehouse providers throughout Australia – including in some of the most remote parts of the country.

Working together sustainably

“Beyond refining and lubricants, we are also looking ahead to the future and aim to establish new energy projects which will transform the Geelong refinery site into a modern Energy Hub and meet the changing energy needs of all Australians,” Renee said.

“Our vision for the Geelong Energy Hub is focused on exploring opportunities in transition fuels (such as LNG), alternative fuels (such as biofuels and hydrogen), and renewable energy and emission reduction projects such as a solar energy farm at our Geelong Refinery.

“We know that it is critical for the sustainability of our business, but also our customers’ businesses that we understand the opportunities and risks associated with climate change, and incorporate these into our business strategy. All these initiatives help our customers to also reach their goals, and allow us to be a true business partner for all of their energy requirements.”

For more information, visit: www. vivaenergy.com.au/shoplubricants or contact Viva Energy’s Technical Helpdesk Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm AES on 1300 134 205, or email technicalhelpdesk@ vivaenergy.com.au

Viva Energy is a locally operated Australian energy, retail, and industrial company, committed to providing dynamic and adaptable service.

Viva Energy, the Shell Australia Licensee has been providing energy solutions to Australia for 120 years.

Shop Shell Lubricants for your equipment at

Shell employs more than 350 product application specialists that work closely with OEMs and customers.

The bigger picture with Volvo Co-Pilot

More visibility brings insight, additional opportunities for growth and improvement, and new capabilities to proactively manage operations and enhance site safety and efficiency.

Reliable telematics systems and connected technologies are becoming an extremely valuable tool to ensure the day-to-day operations run as smoothly as possible for both site managers and operators. Having the knowledge of where equipment is located on site and how it is performing at any moment ensures maximum uptime, efficiency, and productivity.

Volvo Construction Equipment has developed Volvo Co-Pilot, your partner in the cab. An intelligently designed interactive display available as an option on select Volvo machinery, Volvo Co-Pilot offers real-time insights into work being performed to ensure

the highest standard of efficiency and accuracy in any application.

But Volvo Co-Pilot can’t do it alone. The interactive display works simultaneously with Volvo Assist, a suite of applications designed and developed exclusively by Volvo CE to unlock the full performance potential of both machine and operator. Volvo Assist includes Dig Assist for excavators, Load Assist for wheel loaders, and Haul Assist for articulated dump trucks, along with a suite of other connected technologies.

First released in 2016, Volvo Construction Equipment is continuously expanding the Co-Pilot’s functionalities, and is committed to ongoing future development of the system, focused on giving the operator and site manager all the tools and information they need to create and maintain a sustainable, highly

One such development is CareTrack, a state-of-the-art telematics system that is fitted as standard on general purpose articulated haulers, wheel loaders, and excavators, that provides access to a wide range of machine monitoring and tracking information. CareTrack provides customers with machine insights and quality connected solutions in the most efficient way possible.

Getting machines to do more – while both reducing fuel use and maximising safety –is one of the most important factors on a construction site. With CareTrack you can easily identify unnecessary machine idling and wasted time, along with fuel consumption, to optimise machine and operator performance. You can proactively manage your service and maintenance to maximise uptime, and gain crucial insight into your machine’s point in its life cycle to plan services, and even order space parts in advance to reduce unnecessary downtime.

“Customers now have unprecedented insights into the productivity of their machinery as CareTrack provides real-time insights into machine utilisation and fuel consumption, enables tracking, and simplifies maintenance to reduce downtime – it is a truly valuable resource,” explains Hayden Grant, National Product Manager at CJD Equipment, Volvo CE’s national distributor.

“Co-Pilot also helps operators use their machines efficiently. Not only can they learn about their machine’s fuel consumption and excessive idling, but they can also manage all operations with ease and customise functions to monitor their job progress with greater independence and confidence.”

The construction industry is experiencing a dynamic era of rapid innovation with new technologies changing how we work and communicate. As operations continue to grow in both size and scale, the shift towards strategic partnerships between manufacturers and customers is now more important than ever.

Hayden says complete jobsite visibility helps ensure safety and improve communication.

Volvo Co-Pilot offers real-time insights to ensure efficiency and accuracy on the jobsite.

Volvo Construction Equipment has also unveiled its latest Connected Map solution, a positioning service which provides a visual overview of all machines and vehicles on site, including non-Volvo equipment. Part of a portfolio of uptime services that utilises a telematics system, this innovative solution adds another layer of visibility.

Combined with Volvo’s successful CareTrack monitoring, the Connected Map solution aims to create more sustainable, connected, and efficient work sites. Connected Map works by extracting the positioning data from machines, either using the Co-Pilot touchscreen display or any other mobile device – providing it has a SIM Card and the Volvo Map App installed. This unique functionality also allows temporary site visitors to access the app in the same way.

“The Connected Map software is designed to work seamlessly and simultaneously with Volvo’s Co-Pilot,” Hayden says. “You can have a visual overview of the position of every

machine, vehicle, and visitor on your site –it’s a fantastic feature to have right at your fingertips.

“Users benefit from complete jobsite visibility, helping to make operations safer and more efficient. Connected Map also makes it easier operators and visitors to become familiar with the site and know where everyone and everything is.”

Volvo’s Connected Map solution allows for total visualisation of typical jobsite such as site facilities and landmarks, including roads to assist in site navigation around, loading zones, and dump zones. Site mangers can also communicate any changes to parameters on site to all users in an instant alert. Real-time updates to the map such as speed changes, one-way traffic, or alerting when visitors are on site through an online portal, can help to improve operational flow, increase productivity, and recognise safety incidents before they occur.

Volvo is renowned as one of the world’s best manufacturers of safe, high-quality, and technologically-advanced machinery. Telematics is just one step forward in the transformation towards strategic customer partnerships – with additional productivity services available.

Together, CJD Equipment and Volvo CE have provided a range of premium construction machinery suited to Australia’s unique industry requirements for decades. Volvo and CJD deliver a range of productivity, fuel efficiency, and safety solutions for a highly productive operation, ensuring machines are performing at their very best.

CJD Equipment has an extensive national support network in place to ensure you are well supported, no matter where or when.

For more information, contact your local CJD branch on 1300 139 804 or visit www.cjd.com.au

Connected Map provides a visual overview of all Volvo and non-Volvo machines and vehicles on site.

Volvo Assist includes Dig Assist for excavators, Load Assist for wheel loaders, and Haul Assist for articulated dump trucks.

Maximum mulch production

The Tigercat 6900 horizontal grinder is a heavy-duty upswing grinder designed for maximum production. The 6900 is built for extreme duty and long-life using only the highest quality components. It is made with the same build quality and components that Tigercat’s forestry range is renowned for.

The grinder outputs maximum mulch production thanks to its high processing capacity upswing motor. Feeding of both long and short material is easy and productive due to the adjustable in-feed angle.

The open discharge system includes a single discharge conveyor, and the open bottom

allows for clean operation and easy service.

Easy maintenance is always a focus area of Tigercat machines, and the 6900 grinder is no exception. A split hog box opens for full access to rotor and screens. Anvil and screens are also hydraulically retractable.

Operator controls include an easy to access electronic control system with colour LCD screen interface for machine monitoring and function adjustment. A radio remote control is used for primary machine operating functions. A convenient storage compartment for tools elevates to position for easy access.

Other standard equipment includes Tigercat’s

RemoteLog® telematics system and LogOn™ local WiFi machine monitoring system.

The 6900 grinder is extremely versatile with the bolt-on hog box and feed conveyor assembly. Metal can be effectively removed with optional large diameter magnetic head pulley and optional over band magnet.

Other options include a dolly system, three axle, air compressor kit and work lights.

Contact your local Tigercat dealer Onetrak to learn more about the Tigercat range.

Tigercat has introduced the 6900 grinder, the first regular production offering in Tigercat’s material processing category.

The Tigercat 6900 horizontal grinder.

Reaching new heights with Huski

Sydney-based electrical maintenance and repair specialist Allelec Services enlisted the help of Toyota Material Handling Australia’s (TMHA) range of Huski Construction Equipment to maximise its business operations.

Since its beginning three decades ago, Allelec Services has provided electric maintenance and repair to commercial businesses such as supermarkets and shopping centres.

Roughly 18 months ago, Allelec director Alan Borland needed to upgrade his miniexcavator to a bigger unit, and landed on the Huski M-38U mini-excavator with its 3.8-tonne capacity.

Borland reached out to the local TMHA team led by area sales manager Peter Bower, choosing Huski Construction Equipment due to its excellent reputation for reliability.

“We were happy to run with the purchase of the Huski excavator,” Alan said. “Then the opportunity came up with the scissor lift.”

The success of the Huski excavator led Alan to add a Huski SV08ENL scissor lift to Allelec fleet in early 2022.

“We had a smaller scissor lift but wanted the Huski one for the height – it’s a 26-footer – and its slimline design helps with accessing signage and the like while still being manoeuvrable without a monstrous deck on it,” he said.

“The scissor lift is very handy, it’s a narrow unit but with the extra height, it’s been very good.

“We used it for lighting upgrade works at Macquarie shopping centre and for a new signage installation at Chipping Norton, so it’s been very versatile as well.”

Alan said he enjoys owning his own equipment as it allows the business to be flexible and respond quickly to any issue, eliminating the need to find suitable contractors which can be costly and time-consuming.

TMHA prides itself on offering excellent customer service by developing real relationships with clients. Huski Construction Equipment area sales manager Peter Bower helped establish a strong relationship with Allelec Services early on by assisting with the purchase process.

“There were a couple of little questions at the start when understanding the machine so I rang Peter about it,” Alan said.

“Peter and his boss came straight out the following day and saw us straight away, helped us out and found out what the problem was and sorted it out. It was very immediate.”

Since becoming a TMHA customer in 2021, Alan has been satisfied with the products and service provided, saying he would be more than happy to continue his patronage in the future.

“I’ve been super happy, no problems at all,” he said. “I wouldn’t have any hesitation getting something else off them. They’ve always responded to us straight away.”

Alan said that he has even begun recommending Huski products to friends and colleagues due to their excellent performance.

“I’ve mentioned to a few people about the Huski excavator, that I’m very happy about it,” he said. “I’d have no hesitation in recommending it.”

He also said that Peter would be his first port of call if Allelec ever wanted to add more equipment to its stable, due to the performance of the existing machines and the service provided.

Allelec Services is based in Kings Park, Sydney, and has been servicing businesses across New South Wales for the last 30 years. Employing roughly 12 experts, the group specialises in maintenance and repair for large commercial operations such as supermarkets and shopping centre chains.

For more information, visit: www. huskiconstructionequipment.com.au or call 1800 425 438

New South Wales electrical maintenance group finds Huski Construction Equipment works best.

Alan said he has started recommending Huski equipment to friends and colleagues.

Allelec Services Director Alan Borland with his Huski M-38U mini-excavator.

LEADER

For over thirty years Toyota Huski skid steer loaders have built a reputation on performance, driver comfort and legendary reliability. Toyota Material Handling proudly continue this outstanding pedigree with their range of built tough Huski mini excavators.

Stacked with operator features, the range consists of seven models including a 1.3-tonne short-radius machine and six zero tail swing models ranging from 1.6 to 6 tonne, plus famous Huski performance guaranteed to dig in and be productive on every job.

Transforming efficiency

ALLU’s Transformer bucket range makes quick work of screening onsite.

In today’s time-sensitive landscape, uptime and efficiency are vital to the success of any earthmoving enterprise.

Fortunately, ALLU’s range of Transformer processing buckets caters for just that, and more.

By having an ALLU Transformer bucket at the ready, civil workers wouldn’t have to move material offsite to be screened before hauling it back and reusing it. Instead, the processing bucket can screen the material right there.

“The push that we have here is into the civil construction and earthmoving industry, where they can repurpose material on site,” QLD Rock Breakers product specialist Craig Einam says.

“They don’t have to truck it off, truck it back, or bring fixed plant on, which is expensive. They can quickly repurpose material. They might only do a week’s work on one site and then they can move to the next site.”

Einam says contractors can save a lot of money by avoiding dump fees and transport costs, which can add up on today’s job sites.

“ALLU is the leading processing bucket in the world today, and stands out in a crowded processing market,” he says.

“ALLU has created a niche with their latest bucket technology, which puts them ahead of anything else.”

Save even more time

The latest ALLU innovation is Variable Drum (VD drum), which enables the operator to quickly replace fixed TS blades without the need to open the chain-box.

Enabling a variable drum setup means an individual drum or blades can be changed more quickly, saving time and money.

ALLU’s patented TS (top screen) construction and screening blades make it possible to screen materials even when they are wet or moist without fear of the structure getting clogged.

ALLU’s TS blades make it possible to screen wet materials without fear of the structure getting clogged.

With the TS structure, it is also possible to get three different fragment sizes from the same ALLU unit by rearranging the screening combs with no additional costs.

One step ahead with an extensive range of products

ALLU has been consistently one step ahead leading the industry for over 35 years, with truly mobile, compact screening buckets, which are the perfect attachment for compact base machines to screen and transform your materials.

The ALLU Transformer range is among the

widest spanning on the market, with units available to fit almost any base machine size – from the compact DL Series that suit excavators from four to 12 tonnes through to the M Series, which will fit excavators up to 160 tonnes and wheel loaders up to 90 tonnes.

ALLU New VD Drum is currently available for DN 3-12 TS and DN 3-17 TS models.

ALLU’s extensive range of products are distributed to over 30 countries around the world and are available across Australia throughout the authorised dealership network, which can also provide any maintenance required.

For more information contact the dealer in your state:

• QLD and NT: QLD Rockbreakers, www.rdw.com.au/qld-rock-breakers

• NSW: GroundTec, www.groundtec.com.au

• VIC, SA and TAS: Walkers Hammers, www.walkershammers.com.au

• WA: Total Rockbreaking Solutions: www.totalrockbreaking.com.au Or visit: www.attachmentspecialists.com.au/ALLU

The Variable Drum enables the operator to quickly replace fixed TS blades.

ALLU’s processing buckets can screen the material on site, avoiding transport costs.

TRANSFORM WASTE INTO USEABLE MATERIAL

ALLU Transformer buckets are purpose built for efficient material processing by turning waste material into profit by producing aggregates and reusable materials from bricks, concrete, metals, wood, cardboard, glass, asphalt, waste soil or just about anything. Wet or dry.

One ALLU can produce multiple fragment sizes, with various blade and drum configurations.

LESS TRANSPORTATION OF MATERIALS

LESS LANDFILL

LESS FUEL CONSUMPTION

ALLU at DDT Expo, site A10

Processing times, cycle times and processed tonnes can be viewed and analysed via ALLU app.

For excavators and loaders from 8t to 160t.

ALLU Transformer above is processing plasterboard onsite for reuse instead of sending it to landfill.

Growth through innovation

Smaller-to-medium-sized earthmoving businesses have always been the base for Semco’s growth strategy. Reflecting on the company’s growth in the past 25 years, Semco CEO Satch Santilli said, “Our philosophy always was and remains, providing the best brands of equipment to satisfy the needs of smaller businesses.

“We value our loyal customer base that relies on us to keep them informed and supported as their businesses grow. By delivering on what we promise, customers trust us because we have helped them grow their bottom line through a genuine and helpful partnership, backed by advanced parts and maintenance support and knowledgeable technical staff.

“Together with our suppliers, we watch market developments and structure our equipment ranges to always have the most innovative, efficient, safe and productive equipment in the market. The National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is a unique opportunity for us to catch up with existing and potential new customers and to keep everyone briefed on the latest releases,” Satch said.

All new Morooka crawler carrier

The Morooka MST110C replaces the previous model MST2200VD. Featuring a new cabin

layout, Stage V Engine, joystick control and updated cooling arrangement, the MST110C delivers improved ergonomics, reduced engine emissions and fuel economy, improved serviceability and durability.

A major advance is the single lever electro-

hydraulic joystick that replaces the conventional two-lever pilot control system. This upgrade significantly improves operator control while reducing fatigue, being used for drive and dump functions. The joystick is connected via CAN to the engine and display monitor for easier troubleshooting for improved servicing.

The MST110C also has a decel function that reduces engine revs, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption. Engineering quality is outstanding, with the improved design of the dump body manufactured using HARDOX material that provides longer life and improved material retention.

Mini dumpers

With many construction sites presenting limited access, mini dumpers have become an essential tool on sites with a space challenge.

Many contractors who typically have an excavator and a truck are now adding laboursaving mini dumpers to their fleet because of the efficiency these provide, often enabling them to provide additional services within the scope of their business.

Semco’s range of Messersi and Yamaguchi mini dumpers has helped revolutionise the handling of construction site spoil removal on smaller city renovation sites. With a range

Check out the latest from Semco at Diesel Dirt & Turf.

The MST110C has better ergonomics, eco-friendly, efficient, durable.

The adoption of a single lever electrohydraulic joystick marks a substantial improvement in the MST110C, effectively superseding the conventional two-lever pilot control system.

comprising diesel and electric models in a range of capacities, the Messersi mini dumpers effortlessly carry great payloads.

The Messersi TC50-e electric powered track mini-dumper operates in any environment. Powered by a LiFePO4 (Lithium-Iron-Phosphate) battery pack that delivers nominal power of 6.9kW, a single full charge of the TC50-e electric mini dumper is plenty for a shift of five to six hours with up to 2.5 hours of continuous travel when the dumper is fully loaded.

“Our experience in distributing and supporting quality Japanese-made equipment like our Takeuchi excavator and compact loader range has given us a clear preference for selling Japanese manufactured earthmoving equipment,” Satch Santilli said.

Excavators from Takeuchi

New from Takeuchi are its excavator models TB325R, TB335R and TB350R. These are ruggedly engineered mid-range capacity excavators and importantly, they carry the respected Takeuchi pedigree for reliability and performance.

Minimal tail swing design allows operators to focus more on their work and worry less about rear swing impacts. All models have excellent manoeuvrability and accessibility at confined worksites without sacrificing stability.

Yamaguchi tracked mini dumpers

“Yamaguchi’s reputation for quality engineering meets our need to supply high-quality, reliable equipment to demanding customers such as the rental market, where we see the major potential for these versatile machines.

“These mini tracked dumpers are ideal on sites where it is not efficient or practical to use an excavator or a compact track loader to move material off site. With their narrow width and functionality more akin to a wheelbarrow, they can be safely driven through very tight alleyways and other spaces often encountered by contractors working on high density innercity redevelopment or basement sites,” Satch added.

More models from Toro

Due for release is the all-new Toro Dingo TX 700 tracked digger, an affordable, compact, robust and highly reliable mini machine with heaps of power to do the toughest jobs. Featuring patented Dingo traction controls and a dedicated stand-on platform, the Dingo TX 700 is easy-to-use and offers increased operator comfort and improved visibility. It’s the ideal machine for both rental companies and contractors working within the confines of tight spaces.

The Dingo TX 700 is also compatible with dozens of attachments, meaning the machine can be used for a wide range of jobs.

Attachments include buckets, adjustable forks, grapples, levellers, utility blades and more.

Engcon tiltrotators

With a focus on providing efficient tools, Semco can show excavator owners the latest releases in engcon tiltrotators, safe quick hitches and the range of high-productivity tools. Working with a tiltrotator saves time, cuts fuel consumption,

reduces machine wear and manpower while reducing waste material and delivering highprecision results.

Adding further versatility and productivity

EC-Oil enables the changing of hydraulic attachments without leaving the cab. Durable connectors allow tool connection at full system pressure and drip free couplings lower environmental impact and reduces problems with manual connections.

Making life easier and more productive

“By satisfying the needs of small to midrange contractors with ever improving tools to make their business more efficient, we have established long-term customers whose success is driving our rapidly growing sales.

Semco customers always have the assurance that they will be fully supported, regardless of whether they want to upgrade to new models or just want to keep their machines running as productively as possible through regular maintenance programmes and parts supply,” Satch added.

Visit the Semco stand B5 to check out these equipment innovations. Further information at www.semcogroup.com.au

Semco has the machinery to meet the needs of small to mid-range contractors.

Takeuchi has launched its new rugged and reliable mid-range excavator models, including the TB335R, carrying the respected Takeuchi pedigree for reliability and performance.

TB210R, TB215R, TB217R 1150kg, 1610kg, 1680kg

TB216, TB219, TB225 1770kg, 1945kg, 2265kg

TB325R, TB335R, TB350R 2310kg, 3760kg, 5100kg

TB235-2, TB250-2, TB260 3465kg, 5120kg, 5735kg

TB257FR, TB280FR 5840kg, 8989kg

TB370, TB290-2 6735kg, 9180kg

TB2150R, TB2150 16000kg, 16000kg

TB295W 10410kg

TAKEUCHI TRACK LOADERS

TL6R

Approx operating weight 3,530kg

Features radial lift

Engine power 47.9 kW

Tipping load 2,390 kg

TL8R-2

Approx operating weight 4,165kg

Features radial lift

Engine power 54.6 kW

Tipping load 2,740 kg

TL10V-2

Approx operating weight 4,660kg

Features vertical lift

Engine power 54.6 kW

Tipping load 3,270 kg

TL12R-2

Approx operating weight 5,710kg

Features radial lift

Engine power 81.8 kW

Tipping load 3,915 kg

TL12V-2

Approx operating weight 5,835kg

Features vertical lift

Engine power 81.8 kW

Tipping load 5,325 kg

Power couple

Stucchi’s DP and GR multi-coupling series provide speed and efficiency benefits.

Quick couplings manufacturer Stucchi’s DP and GR multi-coupling series are paving the way for quick simultaneous connect and disconnect operations of multiple hydraulic lines. In addition to efficiency gains, the series have also been designed with a strong focus on providing high safety standards.

Drawing on over 60 years of manufacturing knowledge, the Italian company has devised a variety of multi-coupling solutions that cater for the needs of industry, allowing earthmoving operators to efficiently and effectively power on through across a range of tasks.

Stucchi’s multi-coupling series utilise its quick coupling system – offering performance advantages where lines need frequent connection and disconnection – and incorporate a range of specially designed components that allow for the connection and disconnection of multiple lines.

As Stucchi advises, a fixed plate accommodates all the males of the circuit, while a mobile plate is used for the females, with a mechanical lever bringing the two plates together, enabling multiple connections and disconnections with one simple movement.

Multi-coupling solutions for earthmoving applications

Stucchi’s DP and GR multi-coupling series are particularly suited for earthmoving applications, featuring a design that combines a cam mechanism with flat-faced valves and special seals to avoid dirt inclusion, meaning attachment changes can be undertaken without leakage or contamination.

The design allows for the locking of the plates, maintaining a tight and secure connection, preventing brinelling, while it is possible to perform connection and disconnection even in the presence of residual pressure in the circuit.

The connection is made through the lever, enabling coupling and decoupling between

the plates, simultaneously connecting all the hydraulic lines, removing the risk of mistakenly connecting different hydraulic lines.

The DP and GR multi-coupling series respectively provide for:

• DP multi-coupling series – the quick connection and disconnection of up to six hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic lines GR multi-coupling series – the quick connection and disconnection of up to 10 hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic lines

The lines for both the DP and GR series can all have the same size, or each line can be different according to the application, while both series have been designed for easy installation on a pre-existing system. Stucchi’s multi-coupling systems include the following key features:

Lever system – reduces the force required to connect multiple lines (also in the presence of residual pressure in the circuit)

• Cam system – includes a safety lock, allowing for secure connections and disconnections

• Safety system – avoids falling during the disconnection

• Minimal fluid leakage risk – in the surrounding environment, minimising dirt inclusion

• Electric lines – can potentially be inserted for the transmission of electricity to the tool

• Couplings – mounted on the plates with threaded rings or seeger rings, facilitating installation and replacement

• Design – compact dimensions do not create bulk when undertaking operations

The multi-coupling series feature a mechanical lever that brings two plates together, enabling multiple connections and disconnections.

Additionally, all multi-couplings come with a QR code sticker, linking to the relevant page on the stucchigroup.com website, displaying technical information about the product.

Stucchi partners with Hydrill Services to provide an efficient and effective multi-coupling solution

Stucchi has steadily grown its presence in Australia over the past decade, having established its Australian branch, Stucchi FCP, in 2013, comprising a key component of its international operations, and providing a platform for it to further build its presence in the Oceania region.

Based out of Victoria, with offices in Queensland and Western Australia, Stucchi focuses on providing a premium and accessible service for its growing Australian customer base.

Michael Trevor, Hydrill Services Managing Director, said Hydrill has “developed a great partnership with Stucchi Australia”, and that Stucchi’s “dedication to customer service is the reason we continue to work with their team to provide the best service to our customers”.

“In our latest project, Hydrill assisted a leading CSG drilling company to prepare a rig for the field,” he said. “Stucchi delivered a solution to connect the drilling package to the HPU in the form of a multi-coupler system – a process that was previously time consuming and messy for the rig operator.

“From design to delivery, Stucchi was flawless in their service, delivering their proposed solution quickly and effectively. The multicoupling solution Stucchi provided exceeded the customer’s expectation, and has reduced rig moving time significantly. Service and quality product like this ensures our ongoing custom.”

Stucchi’s multi-coupling series cater for various customer needs.

Big power in tight spaces

Ardee Civil is getting the job done with Kobelco and STM Trucks & Machinery.

Sydney-based civil contractor Ardee Civil draws on over two-and-a-half decades of experience in the water works sector, having built its reputation around providing topquality workmanship in undertaking often complex projects. Ardee has worked across a wide range of residential and commercial projects over the years, providing water main, wastewater, and stormwater services.

As Managing Director Mick O’Donovan told EEM, Ardee has Sydney Water major works constructor (wastewater) accreditation, with it having carried out a broad range of projects across different areas of Sydney for the utility.

Mick, who himself has been in the industry since 1994, said Ardee has primarily focused on this type of work in carving out a niche for itself as a specialist capable of taking on projects requiring a high degree of knowledge.

“We’ve mainly concentrated on the Sydney Water work,” he explained. “This spans lots of water mains, sewer mains, and stormwater projects, and a lot of the projects we work on are often in very tight spots.

“We’ve been around for a long time, and we maintain good relationships and look after our clients. Obviously, to do this you have to have the right equipment. So, we do like having good equipment around us as well.”

Knowledgeable staff, reliable equipment

Ardee’s water main services include residential and commercial potable and recycled water work, from one lot up to 400 lots, with pipes ranging from 100mm up to 750mm in diameter,

while it also upgrades old water mains to new mains, including transferring fire and other services.

Its wastewater works span wastewater sidelines, concrete encasements, and subdivisions up to 400 lots, with construction of

An SK380SRLC excavator is the latest addition to Ardee Civil’s Kobelco fleet.

The SK380SRLC’s spacious cabin is designed for operator comfort.

1050mm or 1200mm diameter in-situ manholes, with its stormwater works ranging from 150mm up to 2100mm in diameter, with in-situ or precast pits.

Mick said Ardee has built a broad portfolio of projects for Sydney Water over the years, with it very much focused on delivering quality finished work.

“We’ve been doing Sydney Water work now for a long time,” he said. “We’ve got good staff and equipment, because with complex works you need machines that have the lifting power and the digging power.

“For instance, we’re working on some pump stations at the moment that are running up to 18m deep.”

Ardee’s project portfolio also includes a 300mm water main upgrade in Manly Vale, including all connections and road restorations, and installation of a gross pollutant trap in Bankstown, including all excavation, shoring, and backfilling.

In addition to this, it has carried out deviation of an 1800mm RCP pipe with pit chambers, sheet piling, and dewatering in Kensington, and deviation of a 300mm and 150mm wastewater pipe, including chambers, in Parramatta.

Getting the job done

Mick has long been running Kobelco excavators – having bought his first Kobelco almost 25 years ago and utilising a number of different models in varying weight classes over the years – and recently added a 36t Kobelco SK380SRLC to his fleet.

He told EEM that the SK380SRLC’s powerful output, combined with a limited tail swing, was a key factor is his purchasing decision.

“It’s for the work we do in tight spots, which is usually complex works, and you need machines like that for the lifting power and the digging power,” he said.

“We’re actually using it on a job we’re doing at the moment, including 1800mm pipes, which is in a tight area.”

STM Trucks & Machinery North Sydney Area Manager Peter Moore said Mick had bought his first machine, a used Kobelco SK60-3, from him in November 1998, followed by a new Kobelco SK135SR in November 2002, with his latest machine, the SK380SRLC, delivered in November last year.

Mick said he has been dealing with STM for many years, noting STM supports its products with strong client services.

“There’s a relationship there and they have good service,” he said. “They look after the small guys and the big guys.”

Kobelco SK380SRLC specs

The Kobelco SK380SRLC runs a 200kW Stage V Hino engine, with Kobelco advising the high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, variable-geometry turbocharger, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system reduce particulate matter, while the large EGR cooler greatly reduces the formation of nitrogen oxide gases.

The SK380SRLC’s short radius design occupies only one highway lane, with it capable of operating effectively in narrow spaces.

Additionally, the SK380SRLC features:

• Operator comfort – an air-tight cabin features a spacious interior, with an airsuspension seat installed as standard, while air-conditioning vents are optimally positioned, directing air flow toward the operator’s neck and back

Powerful performance – a maximum digging depth of 6.99m and maximum digging reach of 10.93m, bucket digging force of 208kN and arm crowding force of 139kN (Power Boost provides more power instantly) Controls – a light-touch lever is designed to reduce fatigue over long working hours or continuous operations, an LCD multidisplay shows information including fuel consumption, the one-touch attachment mode switch converts the hydraulic circuit and flow amount to match attachments

• Safety – rear, left and right cameras allow the operator to confirm the safety of the worksite

• Maintenance – the LCD multi-display shows maintenance intervals, a lower access step near the engine simplifies maintenance, a handrail on the step side provides access to the maintenance port on the upper arm, and the FOPS guard can be tilted open for window cleaning.

Ardee Civil specialises in civil works for Sydney Water.

The SK380SRLC’s powerful output, combined with a limited tail swing, was a key factor is Ardee Civil’s purchasing decision.

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

STM FOR MACHINERY

For almost half a century, STM has made it possible for businesses across NSW to power up – supplying and servicing quality trucks and machinery to meet the demands of any job.

Starting out in a single shed in the 1970s, we know what it takes to build a business – and are passionate about helping you grow yours. Today, our family owned and operated enterprise is proud to offer a multi-site, modern service, with a team of more than 120. We care about giving every customer the best experience possible – with a wide range of trusted brands, flexible finance, spare parts, repairs and personal service.

We may have come a long way from that shed, but our family commitment to quality remains. Whatever your size, whatever your budget, STM is your one stop shop – with everything to keep your business moving.

ATTACHMENTS AVAILABLE

GRABS BUCKETS

HAMMERSAUGUERS

TRAILERS

High pressure, high performance

Spitwater High Pressure Cleaners are an ideal choice for users of earth-moving equipment. With their hot water capability, versatility, ease of use, and durability, these machines are designed to tackle even the toughest cleaning jobs with ease. Whether you need to clean heavy machinery, vehicles, or handle site cleanup, Spitwater has a high-pressure cleaner to meet your needs. So why wait? Start exploring the range of Spitwater High Pressure Cleaners today and experience the benefits for yourself.

Spitwater High Pressure Cleaners offer high-pressure water jets that can remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from a variety of surfaces. These cleaners are powered by electric motors, which means they are highly efficient and cost-effective to operate. Electric motors also produce fewer emissions than their petrol or diesel-powered counterparts, making them a more environmentally friendly option.

One of the main benefits of Spitwater High Pressure Cleaners is their hot water capability. These machines can heat water to temperatures of up to 95°C, which makes them highly effective at removing stubborn dirt. Hot water is also better at breaking down oil and grease, which are commonly found on earthmoving equipment. This means that users can get a more thorough clean in less time –especially important when working in timesensitive environments.

Spitwater’s cleaners come in a range of sizes and power levels, which means they can be used for a wide variety of applications. From smaller, wash bay installed cleaners to large, trailer-mounted units, Spitwater has a solution to meet any cleaning need. This makes them an ideal choice for earth-moving equipment users, who often need to clean a variety of trucks and equipment types.

In addition to their hot water capability and versatility, Spitwater High Pressure Washers are also designed for ease of use. They come with a range of features that make them simple and intuitive to operate – even for new users. All Spitwater models have a range of standard and optional accessories, which allow users to tailor the cleaner’s output to the specific task at hand.

Finally, Spitwater High Pressure Washers are built to last. These machines are constructed from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. They also come with a range of safety features, such as automatic shut-off systems, which help to protect users and prevent damage to the washer. This means that users can rely on their Spitwater High Pressure Washer to provide consistent, high-quality cleaning performance for years to come.

Spitwater’s range of High Pressure Cleaners provides solutions for owners of earthmoving equipment, or anybody with stubborn dirt and grime to remove.

Spitwater products are available in a range of sizes and power levels, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications.

Semco Toro team a winner for SureGreen

Careful fleet planning plays a major role in the success of any business that relies on any machinery that is required to work non-stop, every day.

Machinery based businesses that focus on bottom line profitability always consider minimising operating costs such as scheduled maintenance, spare parts inventory, technical support, and any other factors that will minimise machinery and labour downtime.

When Director Nick Conroy established SureGreen, he fully recognised the benefits of taking this approach which has guided his decision to use Toro mowing equipment throughout the business.

“We have grown rapidly and operate throughout New South Wales, working on public space management and maintenance of expansive turfed sites such as parks and reserves, educational campuses, retirement villages, commercial developments, and other public space applications,” he said. “In this landscaping environment, our customers have high expectations of quality and performance, as well as demanding adherence to meeting contracted maintenance schedules.”

SureGreen Director Nick Conroy tells EEM what made Toro mowers the right choice for his business.

Toro offers reliability for long hours on the job.

SureGreen’s latest Toro addition, the 8000 Series mower.

Toro has been the right decision

“From our early days, our priority was to find equipment that would best suit our needs and decided on Toro mowers supplied by Semco Equipment Sales,” Nick said. “Since then, our experience with Semco has validated that decision as they have demonstrated their ability to supply parts and service backup to ensure our business achieves its goals.

“There is no doubt that the close relationship with the knowledgeable and obliging Semco staff supporting the Toro mowers has been a key part of the SureGreen success and growth.

“We have 52 full time staff including horticulturalists, greenkeepers and landscapers, together with 13 apprentices, all deployed across multiple work sites. We can’t afford any downtime therefore equipment reliability is a key issue for us. The Semco and Toro teams help us to achieve this.”

Efficient parts inventory

“Using Toro mowers exclusively gives us the ability to minimise our inventory of common parts which ensures a very rapid changeover of any worn parts,” Nick added. “Another benefit is

that our team is familiar with all the features of the mowers, adding to efficiency.

“In our view, Toro is the undisputed market leader in mowers and are proven performers, producing the best cut on the market, while the support from Semco in supplying the mowers, parts and service has been a critical part of our success.”

When visiting the 2023 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo, you can check out the complete range of the latest Toro mowers and other

equipment that will ensure your business stays efficient and competitive in today’s tough market.

Visit the Semco/Toro stand H1 opposite the food court for your chance to win Toro lawnmowers and over $10,000 worth of giveaways. You can also talk to Semco’s Toro specialist Albert Martin on 0419 468 594 or call the Semco hotline on 1800 685 525.

Wide Track Compact Utility Loader.

SureGreen Director Nick Conroy (left) with Chris Tarrant, Operations Manager.

Operators vote Toro mowers as number one!

VISIT SEMCO/TORO

AT STAND H1 OPPOSITE THE FOODCOURT FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TORO LAWNMOWERS AND OVER $10,000 WORTH OF GIVEAWAYS. CHECK OUT OUR WIDE RANGE OF RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MOWERS AND CONSTRUCTION & TREE CARE PRODUCTS

VISIT SEMCO/TORO

AT STAND H1 OPPOSITE THE FOODCOURT FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TORO LAWNMOWERS AND OVER $10,000 WORTH OF GIVEAWAYS. CHECK OUT OUR WIDE RANGE OF RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MOWERS AND CONSTRUCTION & TREE CARE PRODUCTS

TX1000

VISIT SEMCO/TORO AT STAND H1 OPPOSITE THE FOODCOURT FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TORO LAWNMOWERS AND OVER $10,000 WORTH OF GIVEAWAYS. CHECK OUT OUR WIDE RANGE OF RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MOWERS AND CONSTRUCTION & TREE CARE PRODUCTS

SOONCOMING

The Repco difference

With a focus on Fleet Management, Truck and Bus, Equipment and Vehicle Hire, Civil and Earthmoving, Repco Commercial has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive solutions for businesses across Australia.

Repco Commercial offers a broad range of products and services, including parts, consumables, workshop tooling and equipment, and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each business. With a strong commitment to quality, Repco Commercial partners with market-leading brands to provide customers with the best products and solutions available.

With more than 315 distribution points across Australia, Repco Commercial streamlines the ordering process, reducing the time and effort required to manage fleet parts and consumables.

Repco Commercial offers the widest range of vehicle parts, solutions, and accessories for trucks, 4WDs, and cars – from filtration and braking to steering and suspension, drivetrain,

electrical, engine management, and fuel systems.

A comprehensive range of tools, heavy equipment, and workshop consumables is also available – including specialty tools, air tools, jacks and heavy lifting equipment, heavy-duty pressure cleaners, welding solutions, wheel and brake service, KVA generator sets, lubricants and equipment, diagnostic equipment, compressor solutions over 1100lpm, and personal protective equipment.

Repco Commercial has a team of experienced professionals who can help businesses select the best products and services to meet their specific needs. The team has the knowledge and expertise to provide guidance on everything from product selection and installation to ongoing maintenance and support. Repco also supports your warranty Australia wide.

For more information, visit: www. repcotrade.com.au

Repco Commercial offers a broad range of parts, consumables, and tailored solutions to suit your business needs.

Triple Hidromek delivery for R H Davies

R H Davies is a civil contracting business based in Moree in Moree Plains Shire in Northern New South Wales. It is located on the banks of the Mehi River, in the centre of the rich blacksoil plains.

The company works in roadworks, construction projects, and undertakes a lot of work for the local shire.

R H Davies was founded by Howard Davies in 1990 when Howard moved from England to Australia and decided to start his own business.

“I bought my first machine – a skidsteer – and started taking on work for the local farmers in the area,” Howard says. “My second machine was an excavator, which led to work in civil construction.”

After receiving a contract at the local council, Howard started getting more work in the civil space. Two machines turned into three, and a few trucks were added to the business to enable it to float its own machinery to and from work sites.

The fleet now consists of four trucks and around 15 machines, including skidsteers, graders, excavators, rollers, and trucks.

Ten years ago, Howard’s son Harrison started working for the family business.

“After school I jumped into one of the trucks and then progressed to operating machinery,” Harrison explains.

“Recently we were looking to upgrade to a grader after having used skidsteers with grader blades. We had not heard much about Hidromek, but came across the Hidromek HMK600MG grader when we were doing some online research. Onetrak had it in stock, so we headed to the Onetrak yard to have a closer

look at the Hidromek rollers and excavators. They all impressed with their build quality.”

Shortly after viewing the machines Howard and Harrison decided to purchase a HMK110CS roller, followed by a HMK145LCSR excavator.

“The HMK145LCSR excavator has an operating weight of 16.8 tonnes so it’s a bit heavier than other similar machines,” Harrison says. “It’s well-built with reinforced components on the boom and undercarriage. The excavator is super powerful and operates really well with the tilt hitch, posthole digger and breaker. It’s also very fuel-efficient which helps keep costs down.

“The HMK600MG grader has outstanding visibility thanks to how they have designed the cabin. We opted to have ours fitted with Topcon

wide cab angles.”

Howard adds: “Some general stand-outs of the Hidromeks for us are: aircon – we are definitely putting it to the test as Moree gets very hot. The machine cabs remain nice and cool thanks to the efficient aircon systems.

“The Hidromeks are also very smooth to operate, and cabins are very spacious and comfortable – which is important when you’re doing big days. In short, they’re designed well and presented nicely.

“Onetrak has been very good to deal with. Nathan from the New South Wales team is our main contact, and he has been super helpful. If he doesn’t have the answer, he will find out and gets back to us straight away.”

Howard says the aftersales support has been impressive.

“We’ve been dealing mainly with Brad and he has also been brilliant,” he says. “We have received nothing but good service, which is what you want when you purchase a new machine.”

Harrison says having the Hidromeks on site has attracted a lot of curious onlookers.

“Like us they haven’t seen that many Hidromeks around, and when they do, they are very impressed with the quality,” he says.

“We’d definitely recommend Hidromek and Onetrak to anyone asking. The operators we have had working for us have been very happy with the performance and comfort of the machines, so it’s all positive from us.”

To find out more about Hidromek, contact Onetrak on 1300 727 520 or visit www.onetrak.com.au

Civil contracting business R H Davies is upgrading operations with the help of the latest Hidromek machinery from local dealer Onetrak.

A HMK600MG grader was the first of three Hidromek purchases for R H Davies.

Harrison says the fuel efficiency of Hidromek’s HMK145LCSR excavator helps keep costs down.

Combating the rise of MPE theft

New data from Australia’s leading specialist insurer, NTI reveals rigid trucks and mobile plant and equipment (MPE) under five tonnes are at greatest risk of theft.

Unsurprisingly, trucks, trailers and MPE in metropolitan areas, close to arterial roads, are most susceptible to being stolen – especially on Mondays, which ranks as the worst day of the week for larceny.

While insurance is a ‘must have’ to safeguard assets, experts suggest there are measures owners can take to protect their critical assets from increasingly sophisticated thieves – and avoid costly disruption to business operations.

Top tips for theft prevention

1. Store equipment in a secure location

Firstly, NTI risk engineers advise owners to ensure equipment is stored in a secure place when parked.

“Most trucks and trailers are parked up on premises, so it’s more about the site security than the vehicle itself,” says Paul Bressan, NTI Heavy Motor Risk Engineer.

The team also suggests installing barbed-wire fencing around the perimeter of the property –ideally electrified – and bright lights or motion sensor lights, and signage to alert potential thieves that the property has security systems in place.

“It’s important to understand the property’s key entry and exit points and install obstacles such as drains at the key points to make it harder for thieves to get in and out,” Bressan says.

He also advises operators to install a CCTV

system – ideally one monitored remotely 24/7.

“We rarely see theft from larger carriers as they tend to have CCTV on site and after-hours security,” he says.

“Smaller carriers tend to rely on just fencing and maybe CCTV surveillance.”

Additionally, Bressan urges owners to store spare keys securely.

“A lot of carriers have a lock box on the side of the building for contractors coming in and out that can be easily accessed. They’re pretty easy for thieves to break into,” he says.

For MPE located off site, NTI Risk Engineers suggests investing in metal vandal covers, which are used to encase the MPE when not in use and inhibit entry.

2. Install tracking devices

Bressan also recommends owners fit antitheft devices, such as GPS tracking systems on trucks, trailers and MPE.

While newer equipment comes standard with fleet management software, older models will need a system retrofitted.

In addition to vehicle immobilisers such as wheel locks, shut-off systems, ignition locks and battery switches, Bressan suggests using lockout tags on trailers to protect cargo from theft.

“With larger trucks, thieves tend to break into the vehicle – there’s less chance of the actual vehicle being stolen, so the more security measures the better,” he says.

“If it means it takes longer to break into the vehicle, it can make a difference.”

3. Document what you’ve got Bressan believes asset registers are “a must”.

These list all company assets, as well as location, ownership, and condition information. They should also include information about maintenance and repair activities, inspection schedules, barcodes, models, and other relevant notes.

This information can be saved in a piece of software, a database, or a Word document; but it must be accurate and kept up-to-date to serve its purpose.

It’s also worth considering micro-dot asset identification systems, which mark each asset with a unique code recorded on a secure database and matched with other asset and ownership identifiers such as VINs (Vehicle Identification Numbers).

This helps law enforcement identify, trace, and return stolen equipment.

4. Hire out with care

Lastly, owners should have robust checks and balances in place when hiring out MPE.

NTI has detected increasingly sophisticated crime gangs targeting MPE, especially around Sydney.

There’s evidence of people creating fake companies, hiring equipment, paying the first couple of invoices in cash, and then all of a sudden they immobilise the GPS tracking system and disappear.

NTI recommends owners ensure they have systems in place to check the legitimacy of those they’re hiring equipment to.

To learn more, contact your insurance broker, or NTI, today. Visit NTI’s Yellow Cover at www.yellowcover.com.au

Insurance is crucial to safeguard your assets, but experts suggest there are measures you can take to protect them from theft – and avoid unnecessary and costly disruption to business operations.

Engineering versatility

Norm Engineering’s Tilt Control 4-in-1 Bucket offers a versatile solution for the construction, agricultural, and roads industries.

Since 1984, Norm Engineering has designed and built earthmoving attachments for tractors, mini loaders, skid steers, track loaders, excavators, backhoes, and telehandlers. As an Australian manufacturer, Norm Engineering understands the tough Aussie environment and have built buckets to withstand its harsh conditions. The year 2022 was big for Norm Engineering, celebrating 38 years of Moving The Earth For You!

Most may think Norm Pesch started Norm Engineering, but it was Norm’s father-in-law, Wally Acimovic, who began the business bearing his son-in-law’s name when Norm was in the Royal Australian Air Force. Norm, at the time, oversaw the engineering support section for the Black Hawk helicopters of RAAF No.9 Squadron. However Wally, former owner and founder of Roswal Trailers, clearly had a premonition that one day Norm would want to leave his job and work for him. Luckily for Wally, that gamble paid off. Like most of the greatest success stories, it started from very humble beginnings. Wally constructed the company’s inaugural bucket after being unhappy with the bucket that was on the front of his own skid steer. After going past a few tries, he made the perfect one, and the rest, as they say, is history. Norm Engineering has the reliability you can build your business around. Norm Buckets are proven to be one of the most durable and reliable Earthmoving attachments in Australia. Thousands of earthmoving contractors Australia-wide rely on Norm Engineering attachments. This is because Norm Engineering sets the new benchmark in the earthmoving attachment industry, with stronger materials, engineered for a longer life and enhanced reliability.

Backed by over 30 years’ experience, it

is not surprising that the Norm Tilt Control 4-in-1 Bucket remains Australia’s first choice in the earthmoving bucket range. The Norm Engineering Tilt Control utilises industry leading 4-in-1 bucket design with a tilting rear pickup.

The low maintenance and high strength design of the tilt control system coupled with a simple 12-volt solenoid operation puts this 4-in-1 light years ahead of the pack, giving the operator full radial control of the cutting angle.

This unique design means it is possible to continuously vary the cutting edge relative to the inclination of the loaders’ front wheels, particularly when working on an incline while trying to perform a straight cut.

The 4-in-1 bucket has optional extras to suit

individual needs, these extras include teeth and 3 x replaceable bolt-on edges to extend the life of the bucket. This versatile attachment is controlled from within the cab.

• The bucket can scoop and carry sand, gravel, small rocks, and debris

• The serrated edges allow a strong grip when clamping logs, small rocks, and debris

• The middle bolt-on edge allows back blading, the gravel then accumulates in the bucket ready to be dumped

• The dozer blade levels.

This attachment is ideally suited for clearing, levelling, scooping, carrying dirt and debris, therefore making this the perfect attachment for construction, industrial and agricultural work, roads, sidewalks and car parks. Norm Engineering has thought of everything, including the tiedown points on either side of the 4-in-1 buckets, ensuring you can transport this attachment safely.

Taking care of every fine detail, Norm Engineering has an extra option to customise your load guard with your company name etc. –just another one of those personal touches that make Norm Engineering attachments stand out from the crowd.

Norm Engineering’s goal is to manufacture quality buckets that are reliable, strong and built to last. Over the past 38 years, Norm Engineering has established strong and long-lasting relationships with many of our customers, if you’re serious about increasing your machine’s capabilities, contact us on 07 3376 3177 or visit us at www.normeng.com.au to see the full range of Australian hand-built attachments.

Norm Engineering’s attachments set a new industry benchmark for reliability with thousands of Aussie contractors depending on them.

Norm Engineering is proud to be a 100 per cent Australian family-owned business, manufacturing Aussie products that are built to withstand the harsh Australian environment.

Suitable For:

• Council & Construction work

• Landscaping & Agricultural work

Best Suited To:

• Track Loaders, Mini Loaders & Skid Steers

• Tractors, Backhoes & Telehandlers

Features:

• Available in widths from 915mm - 2400mm

• Wide opening jaws & serrated edges

• Reversible bolt on edges & extra heavy duty flat floor

• Includes hoses, standard couplings & tie down points

Suitable For:

• Council & Construction work

• Landscaping & Agricultural work

Best Suited To:

• Track Loaders & Skid Steers

• Tractors, Backhoes & Telehandlers

Features:

• Available in size; 1600mm, 1800mm & 2100mm

• Optional poly, poly wire or gutter brush

• Includes 3 replaceable bolt on edges

• Optional motor & hoses fitted on either side

Suitable For:

• Council & Construction work

• Landscaping & Agricultural work

Best Suited To:

• Track Loaders

Features:

• Standard with 4/5 heavy duty tynes (removable) - other options available

• Custom built to fit your machine

• Hydraulically adjustable ripping depth

• Kits available for domestic & international orders.

Suitable For:

• Council & Construction work

• Landscaping & Agricultural work

Best Suited To:

• Track Loaders & Skid Steers

• Tractors, Backhoes & Telehandlers

Features:

• Capacity ranges from 0.50m3 to 0.80m3

• Custom mixing system & removable extension chute

• Optional hydraulic opening & easy reversible rotation switch

VICTORIA

Ph: (03) 9775 1965

vicadmin@normeng.com.au

4in1 tilt control bucket

4in1 bucket broom

hydraulic rear rippers

concrete batching bucket

Breaking new ground

New acquisition for leading global manufacturer in groundbreaking attachments.

greater local support and aftermarket services with dedicated facilities enabling us to provide a reactive and customer focused service.”

Miller I NGDF facilities, located in Melbourne, complements Miller’s first facility in Sydney and houses state-of-the-art hydraulic and welding equipment, which will enable the company to significantly enhance its aftermarket service.

Miller I NGDF has ambitious plans to invest further in these facilities and bolster staff numbers at the premises, which currently already comprises a team of experienced technicians specialising in troubleshooting and providing strong aftermarket support.

David Aldridge, General Manager at Miller I NGDF – who possesses extensive experience in manufacturing and facilities operational management – said: “We have a strong track record in the field and Miller’s expertise and capabilities will enable our local business to grow with the backing of a global attachment powerhouse, while also further strengthening our knowledge base and capabilities to operate to international standards.”

One of the world’s leading manufacturers of excavator attachments – Miller UK Ltd – has announced the acquisition of an Australianbased earthmoving equipment and repairs specialist.

Launched in 2013, Miller Australia – stemming from Miller UK Ltd – is recognised for supplying the safest, most advanced buckets and quick hitches on the marketplace from its base in New South Wales. The company has now acquired Victorian-based New Generation Design Fabrication (NGDF) to significantly enhance its aftermarket capabilities and customer support in the Australian marketplace.

Now known as Miller I NGDF, the strategic move allows the business to increase its presence across a wider geographic area, with a significant stock and production increase of quick hitches and buckets that are now readily available in more territories, as well as bolstering after sales and customer support with a dedicated site solutions facility in Melbourne for heavy plant and attachment repairs and refurbishment.

The acquisition of NGDF further solidifies Miller’s position to be the global leader in attachments for the wide range of markets it operates in.

James Ross, Commercial Director at Miller UK Ltd said: “We are delighted to have acquired NGDF as part of our tactical growth plans. With a well-established base already in Australia, a growing customer base, and over a decade’s worth of experience in this marketplace, we have a firm understanding of the market’s specification applications and have significantly invested in strengthening our product portfolio specifically for the Australian market.

“Combining our strong local knowledge with technologies that are globally proven, our equipment is ideally aligned with modern Australian practices and site conditions. As such, we believe our groundbreaking attachment solutions, that have been tested and optimised for even the harshest of conditions, are the very best in class and ideally suited for any industry in Australia.

“Our mission – throughout the business at every level – is to provide exceptional customer service. Through acquiring NGDF, this will allow us to do exactly that, as we will now have

Miller I NGDF will be supplying its quick hitches – GT series – and buckets to a range of markets from construction, mining, and forestry, through to waste, paving, industrial, and landscaping.

At the company’s bases in Melbourne and Sydney, it will continue to deliver heavy plant and attachment repairs, while also supplying its extensive product range from this facility.

For more information, contact: info@miller-ngdf.com.au

Miller is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of excavator attachments.

Miller I NGDF facilities in Melbourne and Sydney will enable the company to service a wider area.

YOUR EARTHMOVING ATTACHMENTS PARTNER

From

Compact stability

Merlo Group Australia’s Panoramic stabilised telehandler range is decked out with a variety of technologies, designed to deliver operator comfort, easy operation, and productivity benefits. In addition to this, safety is a key focus across the range, with a number of integrated features providing for operator peace of mind.

Established in the Italian province of Cuneo in 1964, Merlo draws on a long history of innovative product development, with its Panoramic range continuing its tradition of

combining exclusive technologies, quality materials, and complementary safety systems.

The range is decked out to cater for customer requirements in the industrial, construction, and infrastructure sectors, with its versatility –from models featuring compact dimensions, to models with high lift heights – paving the way for various uses.

The independent control front stabilisers sport an exclusive design offering high structural resistance, enabling greater stability and safety

when handling loads at height, with the shape of the support foot designed to provide firm anchorage to the ground.

Panoramic P40.13EE, P40.17EE, and P50.18EE features Merlo’s Panoramic range brings together a broad range of interrelated features, designed to provide operators a safe and comfortable operating experience, while delivering performance and efficiency benefits in tackling a range of tasks.

The P40.13EE, P40.17EE, and P50.18EE models weigh in at 9.3t, 11.67t, and 13.3t (total unladen weight) respectively, with the P40.13EE and P40.17EE sporting a maximum capacity of 4t, and the P50.18EE a maximum capacity of 5t.

The P40.13EE has a lifting height of 12.5m (maximum reach of 8.74m), the P40.17EE a lifting height of 16.6m (maximum reach of 12.5m) and the P50.18EE a lifting height of 17.5m (maximum reach of 13.5m).

All three models run an 85 kW Perkins 904D-E36TA Tier 3 4-cylinder water-cooled engine.

Safety

The Level II FOPS and ROPS-certified cab is designed to provide operator safety and comfort, along with excellent load visibility, with other safety features including:

• Merlo boom – consisting of a double “C” profile in high-strength steel, with welds made along the neutral bending axis, hydraulic hoses, and electrical wires

Merlo’s Panoramic range provides all-round safety and productivity benefits.

Merlo’s Panoramic range is designed for comfort, ease of operation, and productivity.

The Level II FOPS and ROPScertified cab is designed for operator safety and comfort.

positioned inside, and L-shaped runner blocks, offering millimetre precision of movement control and no bending of the structure

Movement management – cursors inhibit some hydraulic functions, avoiding unintentional movement activation

• Frame – sports small dimensions, minimising the overall floor space occupied by the machine, is equipped with a belt made from steel section bar, with the underside of the body completely protected by steel sheets

• Levelling – a side levelling corrector device allows operators to modify the machine frame transversal tilting, compensating for sloping terrain

• Adaptive Stability Control System –regulates the speed and maximum degree of movement according to three parameters: handled load (kg of material lifted), load position (reach, boom extension, and carriage rotation), and implement in use (recognised by special sensors).

Performance

All models feature a combustion engine in an original mounting layout developed by Merlo, ensuring maximum accessibility to the components, and enabling speeds of 40 km/h (depending on the model), with other performance features including:

• Hydraulic system – comprises two separate circuits for hydraulics and hydrostatics (two different oil reservoirs), with the hydraulic circuit consisting of a load-sensing variable displacement pump, providing lower fuel consumption and ease of use (performing up to three simultaneous movements without difficulty)

• A xles and brakes – the axles are available in two versions – with epicyclic reducers, to maximise torque transmitted to the wheels,

Boom side-shift – is built into the machine frame, allowing for lateral movement of the telescopic boom, ensuring precise load positioning, with no need for additional manoeuvring

• RRM – Merlo’s hydraulic couplings are designed to ensure quick assembly and disassembly, increased connection tightness, increased component service life, and no risk of line twisting

• Fan Drive – allows operators to change the engine fan’s rotation direction from venting – cooling the radiators, to blowing – cleaning them

• Aerial work platform – all models can be configured with a platform (complying with the EN 280 standard).

Comfort

The cab’s frame is fitted with vibration-damping

Cab entry – easy access is provided courtesy of a 180-degree opening door and the large distance between the upright and steering wheel (a side window, independent of the door body, can be locked in the open position)

• Information and controls – information and the controls of the various systems and devices are grouped for optimal ergonomics

• Air-conditioning – has been developed according to automotive standards, cutting warm-up and cool-down times in half compared to conventional systems

• Boom suspensions – the active boom suspension system is available as an option, protecting the load during transfer and maintaining a high level of driving comfort on rough terrain

• Merlo carriage – the Tac-lock device allows implements to be hydraulically locked from

Compact and light weight, the Panoramic range is decked out to deliver excellent manoeuvrability and greater productivity, with other efficiency features including:

– paves the way for efficient movement and safety, with the positioning of the cab and boom, and detailed bonnet design and large glass surface, designed to deliver fast, safe, and precise operations – steering can be managed across the front wheel steering, pivot steering and crab steering (for lateral movements) modes, according to specific needs attery isolator switch – an electric, automatic, and timed battery switch improves battery efficiency and life

Capacitive joystick – detects the presence of the operator’s hand via a capacitive-type sensor, with it possible to control all the main hydraulic movements and implements (with up to four independent hydraulic movements on the implement as standard).

The Panoramic’s robust boom offers millimetric precision of movement control.

The Panoramic range is decked out to deliver excellent manoeuvrability.

SCTM (Wollongong)

FORKWEST 68 McCombe Road, Bunbury, WA, 6230 08 97254970. www.forkwest.com.au

PERKINS MACHINERY Lot 24 Stewart Street, Narrogin, WA, 6312. 08 9881 2222. www.perkinsmachinery.com.au

MCINTOSH & SON (ALBANY) 189 Chester Pass Road, Albany, WA, 6330 08 9847 4255. www.mcintoshandson.com.au

MCINTOSH & SON (ESPERANCE) 25 Norseman Road, Esperance, WA, 6450.

LiuGong prepares to up the ante

LiuGong wheel loaders, which now make up a significant share of this market segment across multiple industries, look set to make a splash at DD&T 2023.

The emergence of the LiuGong equipment brand in Australian construction markets is set to shift up a gear, at the upcoming National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at Eastern Creek.

Jason Lyall, with the Australian distributor for LiuGong, said the Sydney event would mark the start of a number of metropolitan showcases for the growing brand.

He said many contractors already recognised the excellent affordability and performance of LiuGong machines.

“They are working hard for various contractors, clocking-up thousands of hours a year and they are not letting anyone down,” Jason said.

LiuGong wheel loaders, which are used across multiple industries, have been among the machines quickly embraced by operators around the country and now comprise a significant share of that market segment.

“They have been extremely popular with operators on the west coast and we are now seeing a strong uptake in the east. Anyone who gets in them, loves them,’’ Jason said.

“They are the best value wheel loader in the market by far.’’

He said contractors also could take confidence in the millions of dollars invested behind the brand in Australia, signalling the manufacturer’s strong intention in the marketplace for the long-term future.

“We have millions of dollars in parts on the shelf of distribution centres located around the country and a whole infrastructure with dealer network and team ready to assist customers.”

On display at Eastern Creek will be LiuGong excavators, including minis and the recently released zero swing and compact radius

models, new ranges of electric machines just arriving in Australia, as well as the popular wheel loaders.

Limited swing excavators in the 13-15-tonne category represent one of the fastest growing equipment markets in the construction industry and LiuGong has the new 915FCR designed for this segment.

Operators worldwide have already commented on the amount of power this machine has and how comfortable the cabin is.

Jason said with a Stage V Cummins engine without EGR and highly spec’d standard configuration, including 360-degree cameras for added safety, the 915FCR provided an automotive experience for operators with quietness and exceptional comfort.

LiuGong’s new 9017F ZTS, zero swing excavator will be unveiled at the Expo, demonstrating its effectiveness for access limited sites. This model now complements the 9027F ZTS which has already shown a strong uptake within a short period of time in the market. The zero tail swing models are ideal for enclosed areas and where access is at a premium.

“The compact design of the 9017F ZTS, along with the already released 9027F ZTS, is exactly what Australian customers demand and we are very excited to bring these models to market. By the end of 2023 we will have a full suite of zero swing excavators up to five tonnes,” Jason said.

He said the 9017F ZTS featured internationally-sourced premium componentry, load sensing hydraulics, a quiet, fuel efficient stage V engine and a spacious cab. Anticipation is building around LiuGong’s new electric machines that already are in full production and it will be answered at the Expo. Two machines expected to be put under the spotlight include a mini excavator and wheel loader.

The completely electric machines of course provide zero emissions along with significant running and fuel cost savings.

Some of the members of the LiuGong family.

The LiuGong 915FCR compact radius excavator.

Powerful in pink

Jimmy from Starbuck Excavation is a largerthan-life personality in the Melbourne earthmoving industry.

But he’ll be very quick to point out himself that Starbuck Excavation as it is today, would not be as successful without his team – one which is more than happy to put in the hard yards to remain one of the highest achieving earthmoving companies in Australia.

Three generations of Starbuck family earthmovers have been at the helm of the company, and have grown the group over decades. This mindset of passing the company down to the next generation is part of the reason Jimmy – with the help of Kobelco and Melbourne Tractors – is trying to raise awareness of the fact that earthmoving is not just for ‘blokes’, but also kept in motion by the many hard-working women that have broken into the once very male-dominated industry. This has come in the form of a custom pink Kobelco SK135SR-7 excavator, which Starbuck Excavation recently ordered through Melbourne Tractors.

The SK135SR-7 is Australia’s number one selling machine in the 14-tonne class, combining performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability with a premium operator station and modern machine design.

The popular short radius heavy excavator is now available with a proven Isuzu Tier 3 engine,

Starbuck Excavation is supporting women in construction with the help of Melbourne Tractors and Kobelco.

Starbuck Excavation has teamed up with Kobelco and Melbourne Tractors to raise awareness about women in construction.

Starbuck Excavation’s pink Kobelco SK135SR will soon be joined by a larger pink SK235SR, already in transit from Japan.

with no DPF or AdBlue required, reducing operating costs and increasing convenience for Kobelco customers.

“For me personally, it’s a conversation starter to show Starbuck Excavation is a supportive work place,” Jimmy says. “Somewhere in 10 years, I’ll be proud that my daughter will walk onto a worksite and be seen for her abilities and skills rather than anything else. A pink machine and keeping that goal in the forefront of my mind might just make that happen.”

Even though the pink Kobelco SK135SR-7, which will be operated by one of Starbuck’s latest recruits Taylah, is brand new, the idea of not discounting potential staff members based on their sex is anything but new at Starbuck.

Jimmy thinks Starbuck Excavation’s pink Kobelco excavator will be a conversation starter.

Jimmy wants to help create a better earthmoving industry for future generations.

Technology leaders

As a leader in technology and innovation, John Deere exhibited its latest precision solutions for the construction industry at CONEXPO-CON/ AGG in Las Vegas in March.

“At John Deere, we continue to provide customers with ground-breaking, smart technologies aimed to improve user experience in the present and yield proven results in the future,” said Andrew Kahler, Senior Group Product Manager of Precision Construction, John Deere Construction & Forestry.

“Our portfolio of precision construction technologies is strategically curated to help our customers manage their fleets, improve job site performance, and enhance operator skillsets, helping to equip the next generations of construction professionals.”

At the show, John Deere showcased technology including advanced vision and object detection solutions, SmartWeigh, EZ Grade, and a variety of other grade management and automation solutions.

Improved jobsite safety

The next generation of John Deere productionclass and utility-class loaders are designed to improve operator visibility and awareness. Select models can be equipped with new vision and object detection technology, enhancing visibility and helping detect obstacles.

Paired with a high-resolution camera and a dedicated display, this helps enhance the operator’s experience and situational awareness. In addition, the industry-first vehicle trajectory logic technology overlays the projected vehicle reverse path to illustrate where the vehicle will move next.

Building upon these enhancements, the Advanced Vision System integrates two cameras on the sideview mirrors, providing increased visibility to the sides of the machine. Within the cab display, an integrated view of all cameras helps increase spatial awareness with wider views and enhanced clarity.

combines cameras and machine learning to help give operators a better view of their surrounds. The system alerts operators when an object enters the machine’s projected travel path and provides unique detection alerts for people in the camera’s entire field of view. With SmartDetect Assist, the machine will automatically stop before coming in contact with a person.

Increased efficiency

SmartWeigh is now available on the full lineup of P and X-Tier utility wheel loaders and will soon be available on the production-size P-Tier models. Aimed to improve cycle times when loading trucks or processing plants, this payload weighing system delivers increased accuracy, dynamic weighing capabilities, and ease of calibration.

This helps operators confidently hit loading targets and minimise material loss. Available fully equipped on loaders from the factory or as a 250-hour trial period.

As part of the SmartWeigh system, dynamic bucket weighing technology eliminates frequent raising and lowering of the boom. The bucket capture height can be set anywhere between 15-90 per cent of boom height, and captured at any boom speed. SmartWeigh does

is integrated into JDLink™, meaning it can be accessed nearly anywhere.

Also new to the P-Tier and X-Tier wheel loaders, Auto Level technology is designed to eliminate frequent bucket and fork adjustments. Operators moving or handling material do not have to worry about the load tipping too far backwards or forwards as the boom is raised up and down.

Improved productivity

Also on show were John Deere’s Grade Management solutions, designed to help increase operator performance and accuracy. Now standard on the small dozer line-up, with EH controls, is EZ Grade technology, which aids operators in grading smooth finish passes by making small blade corrections automatically. EZ Grade technology is also available on the SmartGrade 333 P-Tier Compact Track Loader. Also available on the full line-up of small dozers is 2D slope control technology, which helps operators maintain flat and sloping grades by automatically controlling the blade to a desired slope. Deere will provide solutions to meet customers where they are today and to grow with them as their grade management needs change. Whether it’s EZ Grade, 2D Slope Control, 2D laser, or 3D SmartGrade in the future, Deere small dozers will have solutions for every customer.

Additionally, the small dozer line-up is available with a variety of enhancements including a larger display and telematics. Telematics data can be integrated into John Deere’s enterprise-wide Operations Center tool, which monitors not only machine data but also makes recommendations for a customer’s jobsite. Customers who have purchased options such as WPT (Wirtgen Performance Tracker) will also be able to conveniently view this data in Operations Center in the future.

John Deere rolled out its latest construction technologies, including industry-firsts, at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023.

ROCK STAR!

NEVER IDLE

In this business, the show must always go on. And that’s why you can count on Deere’s 1050K Crawler Dozer, with its suspended doublebogie undercarriage, to put in a rock star performance. When you’re cranking out over 40 hours a week in the cab, a comfortable operating environment isn’t just an option – it’s a necessity. And with the right features at hand in the right places, it makes it easier for you and your crew to enjoy getting the job done, however long it takes. Add a rock star to your line-up, today.

1050K PRODUCTION CLASS CRAWLER DOZER

The X Series unleashed

The JCB 220X is a mid-sized excavator, with a maximum operating weight of 24,743kg. It is powered by a JCB Ecomax engine, which delivers 173 horsepower (129 kW) and meets tier 4 Final emissions standards. The machine has a maximum digging depth of 6.98m and a maximum reach of 10.67m.

The JCB 220X Excavator is built with the strength and durability needed to take on even the most challenging tasks. The machine is equipped with a heavy-duty undercarriage, reinforced boom and arm, and robust steelwork throughout.

This enables it to withstand the demands of heavy excavation work, demolition, and construction. And with its range of customisable boom and arm options, the JCB 220X can be equipped to handle a variety of jobs with ease.

In addition to its strength, the JCB 220X also offers excellent control. The machine features JCB’s advanced hydraulic system, which provides precise and responsive control of the boom and arm. This allows operators to work with greater accuracy and efficiency, even in tight spaces. The machine’s advanced hydraulic

The JCB 220X also has a range of advanced the auto-idle function helps to reduce fuel consumption when the machine is not in use. The cab of the machine is designed to provide excellent visibility, with large windows and a high-resolution colour display that provides real-time information on machine performance. The cab is also equipped with JCB’s LiveLink telematics system, which allows operators and fleet managers to remotely monitor machine usage and performance.

Combining heavy-duty construction, control, and advanced hydraulics, the JCB 220X is a powerful, precise, and fuel-efficient machine that is sure to be an asset to any construction or demolition project.

Like to know more? Speak to your local JCB dealer today – visit: www.jcbcea.com.au/find-dealer-map/

The JCB 220X is built to withstand the demands of heavy excavation work, demolition, and construction.

A closer look at the power and versatility of the JCB 220X Excavator.

JCB’s advanced hydraulic system provides precise and responsive control of the boom and arm.

The 220X combines a maximum 6.98m digging depth with a maximum 10.67m reach.

MINIMUM SWING

MAXIMUM SPACE

JCB 245XR

At just 1,720mm, the new 245XR has a 40% shorter tailswing than the conventional 220X, making it ideal for work in confined urban sites and highways. Despite having reduced tail swing, the 245XR still boasts one of the biggest, most comfortable, quiet and easy to operate cabs on the market, while our proven Tier 4 Final DIESELMAX engine and selectable swing smoothing as standard provide optimum performance in any application.

Solution specialists

With an extensive geographical footprint of branches and warehouses across Australia and industry experts in each region, ITR Pacific can offer a superior customer experience across a full range of undercarriage parts, rubber tracks and pads, ground engaging tools, repair parts, tyres, and more.

The unparalleled range held locally, and support from the group, means ITR Pacific can confidently sell into all sectors of the Australian market, including mining, construction, plant hire, agricultural and forestry industries.

Undercarriage

ITR Pacific is one of Australia’s leading undercarriage suppliers for most makes and models of crawler machines in the civil, construction, mining, forestry, drilling, and agricultural industries.

All ITR undercarriage parts are designed and engineered by the group’s in-house R&D department in Italy and manufactured in their 100 per cent owned production facilities, ITR Industries South Korea and China. ISO-certified production and stringent quality control measures result in a consistent and reliable product that has attracted the business of OEM and other aftermarket companies globally.

ITR’s range of undercarriage parts is suitable

for most makes and models of dozers, excavators, drill rigs, harvesters, and apron feeders ranging in size from 0.5 tonnes up to 190 tonnes.

Rubber tracks and pads

When it comes to quality and performance, ITR’s rubber tracks and pads are at the forefront of the market. In 2022, the USCO ITR group sold over 79,000 rubber tracks through their global distribution centres.

The production of all ITR rubber tracks and pads follows a stringent process to ensure that all products meet the group’s high standards for performance and reliability.

ITR Pacific supplies a large range of rubber tracks and pads, which are a direct replacement for OEM brands such as Kubota, Yanmar, Kobelco, Komatsu, Takeuchi, and many others. The range covers all applications from earthmoving and landscaping to demolition and trenching, and more.

Ground engaging tools

ITR Pacific stocks a full range of ground engaging tools, covering most makes. The product line comprises all the necessary wear parts for manufacturing, reconditioning, and maintenance of bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and graders.

The diverse range includes teeth and adapters, cutting edges and end-bits, single and double bevel edges, blades, fasteners, and all other components necessary for excavation or levelling, such as rippers and grader blades.

Machinery repair parts

Thanks to considered design, technological innovation, and strict process controls, ITR’s repair parts have always been synonymous with high quality.

ITR is continuously developing this product range, not only by building up a strong distribution network, but also through acquisitions that have helped expand its product offering to cover engine, hydraulic, transmission, and frame parts.

Other products

ITR has developed a range of smaller product lines to meet market demand. ITR radial tyres are the best in their class for the mining industry, heavy-duty construction, and industrial applications.

Alongside tyres, there are hydraulic hammers, aluminium loading ramps, portable track presses and fuel tanks, buckets for excavators and loaders, and much more.

ITR Pacific is part of the USCO ITR Group – the world’s largest aftermarket supplier of earthmoving machinery parts.

ITR Pacific will be showcasing a range of products at DD&T 2023.

Fully equipped track shops

Expanding beyond just parts, ITR Pacific is targeting a new opportunity with the introduction of two new undercarriage workshop facilities into both their Queensland and New South Wales operations.

This new development will allow the ITR team to use all its knowledge and expertise to ensure the process of track lengthening, shortening, new link assembly bolts ups, and pin and bush turns are streamlined and efficient for a quick turnaround time.

As ITR does not compromise on the quality of the parts, it has certainly not compromised on the quality of its track workshop equipment, ensuring that each job can be carried out professionally and exceed customers’ expectations.

On-site undercarriage inspections

ITR Pacific knows that a large percentage of the cost of owning and operating a track-type machine is related to its undercarriage. It is therefore recommended to be proactive and have your undercarriage inspected regularly to get the most life from your asset.

ITR Pacific offers professional undercarriage wear inspections and detailed reports using the ITR WearTek Plus reporting system, allowing customers full access to their track reports through a mobile app and online web portal.

July 2020, ITR Pacific expanded its sales and service arm to include the fitment of excavator and skid-steer loader rubber tracks, along with other undercarriage parts such as rubber pads and sprockets.

The ITR mini undercarriage installation team currently consists of two service vehicles operating in Southeast Queensland, with plans to expand this service to its Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth branches. With over 53

its fitment services Australia-wide.

ITR Pacific will be showcasing a range of its products at the 2023 Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo in Sydney from 21 – 23 April, so be sure to drop by site L2 and say hello to the team.

For more information, visit: www.itrpacific.com.au or call 1300 820 214.

ITR Pacific will have a range of different specials on offer at the show.

ITR Rubber Tracks, Loading Ramps, OTR Tyres and much more will be on display.

ITR Pacific offers a complete range of aftermarket Earthmoving Machinery Parts for most makes & models of Loaders, Graders, Dozers, Excavators, Scrapers & more.

Hitachi: The new generation

Both owners and operators are set to gain from improvements in the new Hitachi ‘dash seven’ wheel loader and excavators as the new generation machines hit Australian shores this year.

Following on from the success of the renowned ZW310-5B wheel loader, Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia (HCA) is introducing the 24-tonne ZW310-7 model – a new generation 4.5-cubic-metre wheel loader suitable for rehandling and sales loading application in aggregate or sand quarries.

Heralding a new era for digging, HCA is also launching three new models from its ZAXIS-7 large excavator series: ZX490LCH-7, ZX690LCH-7 and ZX890LCH-7. The Stage-V compliant large excavators promise up to 20 per cent in fuel savings, improved output and reduced life cycle costs compared to previous models.

HCA’s national product manager for wheel loaders David Gallina and national product manager for construction excavators Bijesh Surabhi explain more about the technologies embedded in the machines.

Productive loading

According to Gallina, new features in

the ZW310-7 wheel loader mean higher productivity for the owners.

“The new ZW-7 wheel loader has been designed to give powerful performance, low total cost of ownership, and exceptional efficiency. Built to the highest quality standards, it will significantly boost productivity at busy quarries and have a positive impact on profits,” he said.

“The new Hitachi patented Approach Speed and Rise Run control features contribute to lowering the cost of ownership.”

Short cycle loading operations are completed faster and more efficiently using the approach speed control feature with a high level of productivity ensured by fast cycle times, high breakout force, loading capacity, and improved acceleration on inclines.

But that’s not all. There are other features in the ZW310-7 also contributing to higher productivity.

“As standard, the wheel loader operators can now work more efficiently and accurately thanks to the ZW-7 payload checker,” Gallina said. “It enables them to keep track of load weights in real time on the monitor and find out how much material is in the bucket or truck. The display shows when the bucket or truck is

overloaded, so you can adjust the final load to achieve target capacity.

“Combined with the new Stage-V compliant fuel-efficient engine with increased torque at lower revolution and intelligent computer aided lock up converter and transmission, you’re in total control to maximise productivity and increase efficiency.”

Operator safety

Operator safety improvements in the new ZW310-7 stand out, with the loader designed to offer better visibility, even in the reverse motion.

“The ZW310-7 allows for an unparalleled view from all angles, with superior visibility to the rear and either side of the narrow engine bonnet, combined with the aerial angle camera system, the operators have a 270-degree bird’seye view of the surrounding worksite,” said Gallina.

“Safety is further enhanced by the intelligent anti-collision and warning system to alert the driver of any immediate dangers if anything is too close to the rear of the machine. The new standard intelligent system with improved vision helps protect the operator, site workers and the machine from potential hazards,” he added.

This year, Hitachi Construction Machinery will be officially launching new wheel loaders and excavators from its popular ZW-7 and ZX-7 series in Australia.

Hitachi’s ZW310 wheel loader balances efficiency and performance with low total cost of ownership.

Cab improvements

Operators of the new Hitachi ZW310-7 loader will also notice improvements with the redesigned pressurised cab, which offers more space, better quality, and a superior view of the surroundings.

“The ZW310-7 cab has one of the lowest noise and vibration levels in the market,” Gallina said.

The loader is equipped with seat mounted electric control multifunction lever and joystick steering, heated heavy duty seat with horizontal suspension, and a 75-millimetre-wide seat belt with audible alarm. The armrest is integrated with a sub monitor controller (both dial and switches) to control the new high-resolution eight-inch secondary display on the right-hand A pillar.

“The new guidance display features provide the operator with a clear understanding of machine conditions, daily inspection reminders and real-time instructions to improve productivity and machine safety,” Gallina said. “During operation, the driver comfort is further enhanced by Hitachi’s new intelligent ride control function to prevent unnecessary machine pitching and vibration during load and carry cycles, keeping the operator in control and without fatigue.”

A new era for excavators

Hitachi’s new generation of ZAXIS-7 large crawler excavators, which continue to be manufactured in Japan, are also debuting in Australia this year, after a successful launch in the European market.

According to Bijesh Surabhi, National Product Manager for Construction Excavators, the new generation of large excavators stand out for their Stage-V compliant engines, comfortable cabs, and safety features.

Fuel burn is reduced thanks to a patented Hitachi hydraulic system called Human and Intelligent Operation System (HIOS). The HIOS-V hydraulic system in the latest crawler excavators is a further evolution on Hitachi’s HIOS-IV, which facilitates quicker responses to more intuitive operator control.

“Through rigorous reviews focused on hydraulic loss, compared to the ZAXIS-6, Hitachi has achieved a reduction in fuel consumption of 11 per cent or more, and even greater performance when compared to the current ZAXIS-5 model sold in Australia,“ said Surabhi.

“This hydraulic system also enhances efficiency in the swing, boom lowering, and arm bucket roll-out. Productivity is further increased by the improved front speed for loading operations; and the increased engine output of the new ZAXIS-7 machines contributes to a higher workload.

“Operators now have the ability to alter the hydraulic priority between the attachment, arm roll-in and slew, so they can perfectly match the machine’s response to their operating style and preference. We have also retained the pilot

operated hydraulic system – as opposed to an electric-over-hydraulic system – in order to maintain Hitachi’s legendary ‘hydraulic feel’.”

The fuel efficiency of ZAXIS-7 large excavators can also be controlled by using the new ECO gauge, Surabhi explained.

“Besides reducing costs, better fuel economy has a positive impact on environmental performance,” he said. “The new excavators are Stage-V compliant, thanks to the combination of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and Catalysed Soot Filter (CSF).”

The cab comfort extends from the wheel loader to the excavators.

“The ultra-spacious cab is the perfect working environment for operators, offering reduced noise and vibration levels in the cab, which are both vital for the mining and quarrying industries,” Surabhi said.

“Other new features include the synchronised motion of the seat and console – to reduce operator fatigue – and the adjustable console height with three positions to choose from. Easy operation comes from the ergonomic design of the console and switches, and the hires anti-glare screen is also easier to view.”

Increased safety

Job-site safety is enhanced by the exceptional view from the ZAXIS-7 large excavators. Operators can control their own safety, as well as that of those around them, thanks to the aerial angle camera system. It provides a 270-degree bird’s-eye view and users can choose from six image options to see the machine’s immediate environment.

“Tested rigorously at a dedicated facility in Japan, Hitachi ZAXIS-7 large machines have been built to last and maximise uptime,”

Surabhi said. “New engine parts enhance reliability, oil leakages are less likely, and the durability of the trackframe has been improved.

“In addition, the undercarriage of the ZX490LCH-7 has robust new components that prevent potential damage. The ZX690LCH-7 and ZX890LCH-7 models are built with reinforced components that are ideal for the digging and loading of heavy materials. Strengthened to cope with the rigours of mining and quarrying, they provide lower costs over the machine’s lifetime.”

After-sales support

The new ‘dash seven’ wheel loader and excavators have already been released in Europe with success.

According to Gallina, the next instalment of the quarry size wheel loaders from HCA will be the new generation 36-tonne ZW370-7 in two bucket configurations, which is expected to arrive in Australia soon.

With HCA a direct reseller for Hitachi’s products and along with its national, wholly owned sales and service support network, Gallina said being able to directly communicate with the factory is an advantage for Australian customers.

“To support owners and operators throughout the life cycle of the new machines, Hitachi offers a wide range of after-sales services and access to vital data and tools to manage their machine effectively,” he said.

“These include remote monitoring systems, ConSite operational reports and emergency notification via email, which help to monitor performance, track location, and plan maintenance. The ConSite pocket app also allows you to manage and monitor your fleet remotely.”

Hitachi’s ‘dash seven’ range is set to hit Australian shores in 2023.

Equipment finance: 7 quick facts

1. Spreading your equipment debt over multiple financiers instead of your bank can pay big dividends

Often your bank will have a mortgage over your business, known as General Security Agreement (GSA). They will likely consider exposure they have on equipment finance when assessing whether they will provide extra working capital as you grow. Often banks refuse to provide increased home loans or additional overdraft limits, due to the level of exposure you have on equipment finance.

If you want to change banks, the departing bank will typically want to see you pay out all equipment loans prior to releasing securities required by the incoming bank. These payouts incur a penalty on early discharge. You would not have to do this if your equipment finance was with another provider.

SPREADING DEBT =

• More competitive rates and terms for you

• You’re building a broad base of supporting lenders to provide additional finance

• A quicker and more cost-effective way of growing your fleet of machines.

2. Used equipment is as easy to finance as new equipment

Quality used equipment (purchased at auction

or via a dealer) is a viable alternative to new, especially in this current environment where supply of new equipment has significant delay in delivery.

3. Private sales of used equipment can easily be financed Competitive equipment finance is easily available where the used equipment is being purchased from a private vendor. Private sales require extra steps such as inspection of goods and ownerships checks. Using a skilled broker means they will complete these steps for you.

4. Interest rates can vary by as much as 2 per cent, so it pays to shop around

Interest rates on equipment finance are open to competition between banks and finance companies. It pays to shop around or use a finance broker who will save you time and do it for you.

A 2 per cent interest rate saving on a $300,000 loan, over five years, will save you $330 a month ($20,000 over the entire term).

5. Finance under $1 million can be completed without financials

Most finance under $1 million can be arranged

without the need to provide financials and without increases in interest rates. This is known as Low Doc, Matrix, Easy Upgrade Products.

6. You can take advantage of a 100 per cent tax write off on new or used equipment

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for companies to expand. The government Instant Asset Write-off incentives will be ending June 30, 2023.

7. You can claim a 100 per cent tax write off on your existing fleet

Any company using the Simplified Tax System for Depreciation and with a turnover of less than $10 million can claim a full 100 per cent tax write off on their existing fleet.

The loss created can be carried back to prior years (up to 2019) to obtain a tax refund on any tax paid during that term. If you still have tax losses after that, you can carry those forward to offset future years trading profits.

Chat to your broker or accountant to learn how your business can best take advantage of the Instant Asset Write-off incentives.

Find out more at www.finlease.com.au

Used equipment can be financed just as easily as new.

Innovative new GPR technology for excavators

Avoid dangerous and costly utility strikes with RodRadar Australia’s new Live Dig Radar.

RodRadar Australia is delighted to introduce the all-new, revolutionary Live Dig Radar (LDR) Excavate.

Fully integrated into an excavator bucket, the LDR Excavate brings RodRadar’s unique high-resolution ground-penetrating radar (GPR) imaging into the operator’s cabin during excavation and earthworks projects.

Available in three size configurations, the RodRadar LDR Excavate is compatible with most makes and models of excavator sized one to 18 tonnes.

The only solution of its kind worldwide, the Live Dig Radar provides real-time, precision data on the location of underground utility infrastructure, automatically and directly alerting the excavator’s operator with simpleto-understand notifications.

The technology, although complex in scientific design, is simple to use – connect the LDRintegrated bucket to a compatible excavator, link the bucket to the supplied tablet mounted inside the operator cabin, then make sequential excavations into the earth to scan the ground below. As the bucket digs and makes contact with the ground, the built-in radar technology delivers highly accurate, real-time, easyto-understand data to the tablet regarding underground utility locations and depths.

The aim: holistic prevention of costly and unsafe utility damage, and exceptional improvement of project efficiency and productivity.

Each year, underground infrastructure damage costs the global construction industry more than AUD$150 billion – including billions invested in less effective alleviation methods – with utility strikes during excavation causing dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries. RodRadar Australia’s innovative Live Dig Radar is a dramatic improvement over

current widespread excavation technologies and processes, overcoming their inherent limitations.

During February, RodRadar Australia partnered with distributors ASV Sales & Service and STM Trucks & Machinery to conduct preliminary LDR Excavator Demonstration Days in Sydney and Newcastle. As part of each demonstration, utility services were buried underground in various earth compositions, and attendees were invited to find and unearth the utilities using the Live Dig Radar in-situ.

With more than 50 industry representatives in attendance – hailing from fields including construction, risk assessment, workplace health and safety, utility management, and government – the LDR technology was met with extensive positive feedback.

“The accuracy of the radar was spot on,” said one government agency representative in attendance, who requested to remain anonymous. “The LDR would work well in our operations and is exceptional new technology.”

In addition, Michael Owen from major construction body RTC Group, said that the LDR “would be very helpful for safety, and also a time saving device – and also looks to be easy

Furthermore, RodRadar’s Live Dig Radar is garnering exceptional acclaim on the global stage. Florida-based Haskell – a pioneering architecture, engineering, and construction firm – has become the first contractor in the United States to deploy the technology.

“RodRadar’s Live Dig Radar technology is a game changer,” said Cutler Knupp, Managing Director of Haskell’s innovation and venture capital arm, Dysruptek. “We’ve validated that

the solution does exactly what it says it does. The accuracy has been impeccable, and it’s already helping Haskell to identify subsurface conditions that we were not aware of before.”

Speaking of the Live Dig Radar’s capability to enhance the safety, cost-reduction, and efficiency of earthworks, Knupp said: “This problem plagues the entire industry across the globe. We finally have an opportunity to completely eliminate strikes – this is very exciting.

“We’re pushing toward a future when LDR buckets will be available at your local equipment distributor and on every project site as a new standard.”

RodRadar Australia will roll out the new LDR Excavate nationwide throughout 2023. For further information regarding the product, demonstration opportunities, and stock availability, visit: www.rodradar.com.au

The LDR Excavate is fully integrated into an excavator bucket.

The RodRadar Live Dig Radar is compatible with most makes and models of 1-18-tonne excavators.

The Live Dig Radar provides real-time, precision data on the location of underground utility infrastructure.

Epiroc SB Hydraulic Breakers: 30 years of solid reliability

Today, SB Hydraulic Breakers are a popular range of tools in Epiroc’s broad portfolio of hydraulic attachments. The slim, lightweight solid body design offers several advantages compared to conventional hydraulic breakers which, at the time, had already been around for some years. Outstanding durability and reliability, easier handling, lower fuel consumption and other benefits continue

to make SB Hydraulic Breakers leaders in a competitive market.

First introduced by Atlas Copco in 1993, the solid body concept utilises a patented internal component design that integrates the percussion mechanism and the guide system into a single piece. This eliminates the weakest components of conventional breakers and gives SB breakers their outstanding durability.

Slimmer, lighter, fewer parts

Compared to conventional hydraulic breakers of the same size, the solid body concept gives a slimmer, more compact design that allows better visibility and handling, particularly in confined spaces. Solid body breakers are also lighter, allowing a smaller excavator to be used for the same job, which in turn reduces carrier fuel consumption.

The fact that solid body breakers have fewer parts than conventional hydraulic breakers reduce maintenance requirements and enhances reliability. The attachments are designed for large diameter tools, which also contributes to their reliability.

Solid partners for a variety of tasks

SB Hydraulic Breakers are a reliable choice for demolishing light concrete structures and asphalt pavements, both outdoors and indoors. They are suitable for performing earthworks, scaling in underground operations, cleaning ladles and converters in foundries, and other demanding tasks.

A complete range

SB breakers are manufactured in Epiroc’s factory in Kalmar, Sweden. Designed for carriers in weight classes up to 24 tonne, they are available in nine models with service weights ranging from 55kg to 1060kg. The range includes models to match any micro or mini excavator, backhoe, skid steer loader or demolition robot. Their outstanding durability makes them a popular choice for rental companies who can, with confidence, rent them to less experienced end-users.

Other features

Hydraulic breakers in the SB series are easy to set up and service; no special tools or adaptor fittings are required. Changing the working tools is simple, thanks to the patented tool locking system, and the floating fit lower bushing can be replaced by the operator onsite with standard hand tools.

Integrated Epiroc Energy Recovery technology increases productivity and reduces fuel consumption. Overload protection is provided by an integrated pressure relief valve. Also available are Auto Start, an air inlet for underwater applications, and Epiroc ContiLube™ II micro or ContiLube™ II automatic lubrication systems are optional on certain models.

Find out more at www.epirocgroup.com

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the ground-breaking SB or “solid body” concept for hydraulic breakers.

SB Hydraulic Breakers are great for demolishing light concrete structures and asphalt pavements, both outdoors and indoors.

Meet tiltrotator specialists engcon at DD&T 2023!

Leading tiltrotator manufacturer engcon is exhibiting at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo (DD&T) for the third time in 2023. Shayne Jessiman, General Manager at engcon Australia, tells

With coverage in every continent, engcon’s global presence is constantly expanding. For the past three years, engcon has provided Australian customers with tiltrotators and quick couplers from its facility in Western Sydney, backed up by technical sales support staff, administration offices, warehouses, spare parts, and service.

The rapidly expanding Australian market has become increasingly important for engcon, with its network now extending across all states. engcon’s establishment in Australia has shown good results with a growing customer base and numerous new employees – a sign of how popular the tiltrotator has become in Australia the past couple of years.

“Starting an office in Australia was the right decision as we already had a broad customer base in the country,” says Shayne Jessiman, General Manager at engcon Australia. “The fact that we have had the opportunity to introduce engcon and our innovative solutions to more customers has been incredibly fun.

According to Shayne, engcon’s previous participations at DD&T have all been successful. In 2021, he says, the engcon stand attracted a large number of visitors, and engcon was also awarded the prize for “Most innovative product 2021”.

“Exhibitions are an important channel for us,” Shayne says. “We get the opportunity to meet our customers in person, showcase our wide product range and share knowledge about a topic close to our hearts.”

Comprehensive solutions

Visitors at the engcon stand will be able to explore engcon’s innovative and resourceefficient tiltrotator solutions, along with a range of accompanying tools and attachments – all designed to keep the end user’s needs and safety in focus.

In the tent, EC-Oil – engcon’s highly appreciated and well-known system for hydraulic and electrical connection of hydraulic tools and attachments – will be presented. The system is specially adapted for engcon’s series of tiltrotators, offering a complete solution for everything from control systems, to hitches and tools.

EC-Oil means that hydraulics, electrical and central lubrication are connected automatically while the operator is comfortably seated in the cab, increasing both efficiency and safety.

“EC-Oil is one of our key products,” Shayne says. “The system enables the operator to connect his tiltrotator or other hydraulic tool

the grapple, sweeper, or compactor in just a few seconds, which contributes to a safer, more flexible, and easier digging experience.”

Tools for every job

EC-Oil will not be the only thing on show during the exhibition. In addition to the tiltrotator,

based on the complete solution we offer our customers,” Shayne explains. “We not only offer the tiltrotors and the EC-Oil system, but also all the tools that may be needed for all different types of jobs.

“engcon’s products contribute not only to a more efficient business, but also a more profitable one. The close-knit solution streamlines excavation and construction work worldwide, and enables one person to handle the processes alone.”

Don’t miss the brand new EC206 engcon will also have sweep rollers, pallet forks, compactors, and more on display. The team will showcase the many improvements to the range, including for the EC206, where ECOil is becoming standard on both the top and bottom of the tiltrotator – allowing automatic connection of the tiltrotator and hydraulic tools under the attachment.

The new EC206 is also prepared for engcon’s grab and sweeper cassettes, and comes standard in Australia with tilt and rotation sensors for integration with machine guidance systems. Visitors will not only get to see these products in person, they will also be offered demonstrations of the tiltrotator and other products working together in action. Let’s change the world of digging together.

According to engcon, the tiltrotator has increased in popularity in Australia over the past few years.

Visitors to engcon’s DD&T stand can explore a wide range of tiltrotator tools and accessories.

Leading the way with innovation

Since Digga’s inception in 1981, innovation has played a key role in its history and success.

From pioneering pendulum drilling in Australia to game changing innovations such as HALO, the Ryno Hitch, 2 Speed Auger Drives, and the Diggatac trencher tooth, Digga has always prided itself on continuous improvements. While a company’s ability to innovate is often judged on its release of new cuttingedge products, in reality, innovation takes on many forms – many of which are not seen by the consumer. These can come in the form of product design and performance improvements, streamlined manufacturing processes, or investing in the latest manufacturing machinery.

With a full-time staff of 16 engineers and one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in Australia, Digga invests heavily in its future to ensure its products perform well, are durable and affordable, while still being manufactured in Australia.

“In this ever changing, fast-paced world, innovation, as well as embracing and developing new technologies has never been so important,” said Zoe Davies, Digga Deputy CEO. “We’ve grown our engineering department and continue to invest millions in new technology to equip Digga for the future.”

In the first quarter of 2023, Digga will be commissioning a state of the art blasting booth and awaiting delivery of a new pipe laser, both of which will deliver an improved product while reducing production costs – which is critical

to Digga being able to compete against cheap, imported products.

On the product front, Digga recently released HALO, an ingenious auger alignment system which is hailed as ‘the future of the drilling

industry’. This alignment system, designed and manufactured by Digga, features LED lights built into the hood of an auger drive and is designed to improve efficiency while saving the operator time and money.

HALO indicates when the auger drive is plumb, and has been engineered for versatility, with applications across situations such as drilling, screw anchoring, and shade structure foundations.

“HALO is the biggest innovation in drilling since auger drives changed from being chain driven to be powered by planetary gears in the late 80s,” Davies said. “Apart from improved performance and reliability, the auger drive hasn’t changed much over the past 20 years.”

HALO is currently available on auger drives for Mini Machines right up to 30-tonne excavators, with work well underway to incorporate HALO in the entire screw anchor drive range. This will be a game-changer for installers as precision is paramount when installing screw anchors. A mobile app is also being developed to further expand the capabilities of the HALO system. Looking forward to the rest of 2023, Digga has some exciting products slated for release, including a new 4-in-1 bucket, and updated bucket broom, and a new trencher.

The 4-in-1 bucket, like auger drives, has seen very little evolution in its design for decades. Digga systematically reviewed each component and feature which operators noted as critical and redesigned their 4-in-1 from the ground up. With field testing and operator reviews completed, Digga is finalising supply chain and production processes ahead of release.

The broom will see some key improvements designed to make it easier to use and more durable. During the review process the engineering team developed clever ways to improve the manufacturing process which will help maintain competitive pricing.

With a constant focus on improvement and innovation, Digga is not prepared to slow down with the design and testing of electric attachments already underway. Digga is poised for bright future.

Digga is investing heavily in its manufacturing future to ensure its Australian-made products stay affordable, without compromising quality.

Digga’s HALO auger alignment system features in-built LED lights.

Digga’s manufacturing facility in Yatala, Queensland.

Digga prides itself on its Australian-made products.

Italian craftsmanship at its toughest

Telehandlers

Manufactured to meet local design, safety, and compliance standards, Dieci telehandlers offer a cost saving solution and efficient way to move materials by improving fleet management maintenance and decreasing the number of machines needed on the jobsite.

The telescopic boom makes it possible to reach greater heights and distances, and perform various jobs using the same vehicle. Compared to forklift trucks, these machines offer greater visibility from the cab during transport and can handle loads in even the tightest spaces.

Dieci customers can diversify their return on investment through multiple attachment solutions. Lifting hooks, excavation and aggregate buckets, grippers for cylinders, pipes and tyres, centering handlers, and passenger baskets are just some of the accessories specifically designed to suit the needs of each individual construction site.

From the compact Apollo to the heavy-duty Hercules, the Dieci range features vehicles from 2.5t to 21t, with lift heights from 6m to 17m. Dieci’s offering also extends to EWP models, that are perfectly suited to withstand demanding Australian conditions. These vehicles excel in applications such as new constructions, renovations, restorations, maintenance works, and even the assembly of large renewable energy plants and wind farms. Available in the rotating boom range is the 4t to 6t Pegasus. With either continuous (360°) or non-continuous (400°) rotation, these telehandlers can be fitted with a variety of accessories, making them suitable for many tasks. The Pegasus family can safely and easily reach tall heights, lift heavy loads and, thanks

to the rotation system, work on multiple points without having to be repositioned.

Truck mixers and dumpers

As well as a variety of telehandler models, Dieci Australia also offers a range of truck mixers and dumpers.

Characterised as the most powerful Italian hydrostatic truck mixer, Dieci mixers are unique for their strength and manageability. A variety of mixer sizes to suit all types of applications are available including the F7000, with a capacity of up to five cubic metres, to the midrange L4700 and L3500. Dimensional stability and a long life are guaranteed due to the high thickness of steel used for the mixing drum.

Dieci’s dumpers are also very versatile, lightweight, and easy to handle. Each model has specific characteristics, especially designed

steering provides a tight turning radius, so that it can easily move onsite.

Maintenance, comfort, safety

When it comes to maintenance, Dieci vehicles excel due to the use of durable components and cutting-edge materials. With more than 50 years’ experience in the telehandler sector, the company is consistently finding ways to simplify the serviceability of its vehicles.

Access to the engine is made easy with the optimal arrangement of components that make maintenance quick and convenient. Radiators are straight forward and fast to clean, and air filters can be reached without any tools. The interventions required for the change of hydraulic oil are also minimal, as they are only necessary every 2000 hours of operation.

Each telehandler comes with a ROPS/FOPS approved cab with a roomy interior, luxurious air seats, LED lights, powerful integrated air conditioning and heating, and complete 360° views. Dieci cabs are designed to significantly improve the working conditions and comfort of the operator.

Safety is a major priority at Dieci Australia, with more money invested in load charts and design verifications for the complete range of machines than most companies in Australia. The company has an independent, external engineer who signs off on every new machine or attachment that comes out, including attachments that they have developed themselves.

Dieci telehandlers are available across Australia through the Dieci Australia dealer network.

For more information, contact Dieci Australia on 1300 888 479 or visit www.dieciaustralia.com.au

Dieci Australia offers a range of telehandlers, truck mixers, and dumpers to tackle jobs of any size.

The Runner can lift up to 4000kg at 12.4m.

The heavy-duty Hercules can lift up to 21,000kg at 10.2m.

Max Capacity: 3,500 kg

Max Lifting Height: 9.75 m

Max Power: 125 hp (93 kW)

Max Speed 30 km/h

Designed to offer the operator the perfect balance between power and agility whenever it is necessary to handle heavy loads in confined spaces. Equipped with hydrostatic transmission and inching pedal control, with a large focus on safety and a high level of comfort, it’s easy to see why the Zeus 35.10 is the ideal machine for your application.

Looking for something else? Check out our construction telehandlers below, including our range of rotational and EWP models.

Precision and versatility

Machine control technology for compact excavators.

C.R. Kennedy is proud to announce the release of Leica Geosystems’ new iCON site excavator system. The versatile machine control solution is designed for compact excavators – a single solution to increase the efficiency and accuracy of small-scale trenching, grading, and earthmoving operations – for the Australian market.

The iCON site excavator system builds upon the powerful iCON Site platform, allows compact excavator operators to dig to designs easily and precisely, and is available for use both as a standalone option or can be combined with an ICON Site GNSS rover.”

The iCON site excavator introduces three new components to the existing iCON suite, the iCON Excavator application itself, a dual GNSS receiver (the Leica iCON gps 100) and an optional communication device for GNSS corrections (the Leica iCON CR50), encompassing a setup that delivers versatility in tackling a range of applications.

With iCON Site Excavator it integrates seamlessly with existing iCON site applications, paving the way for benefits

iCON Site Excavator integrates seamlessly with existing iCON site applications.

C.R. Kennedy is the sole and exclusive distributor for Leica Geosystems in Australia.

from new workflows that combine measuring, stakeout, excavating, and reporting.

Optimising earthmoving tasks

The Leica iCON site excavator system supports compact excavators with swing boom, tiltrotator, and tilt bucket functions. Across its assorted on and off-machine applications, iCON site with iCON site Excavator is designed for simple setup and ease of use.

This provides greater flexibility and underpins efficient and effective equipment and personnel deployment by enabling operators to optimise earthmoving tasks, with versatility of on machine and off machine options in one software.

For instance, across various stages of the workflow, it allows operators to:

(using a field controller unit with a smart antenna)

• Directly dig – according to the design (using the same field controller in the cab)

• As-built checks – once completed, use the same system to perform these checks. Other features include:

• Map-driven – selection and navigation

• Traffic-light – indication of work results

• Split-screen functionality – allows different viewing perspectives

• Digital designs – using the same designs as the big machines in the project ecosystem

• Leica ConX – integration ensuring seamless communication of design updates. The iCON site excavator can be used in conjunction with a range of iCON field controllers, while the new GNSS receiver

specifically for compact machines, allowing greater flexibility to adjust to different sites and project requirements.

Backed by nationwide support

C.R. Kennedy, the sole and exclusive distributor for Leica Geosystems in Australia, is focused on providing high-quality products and tailored solutions for industry, supported by its comprehensive national after-sales network, including training, service and repairs, technical support, hire equipment, and customer care agreements.

Based out of Port Melbourne, C.R. Kennedy’s national network spans major state offices in Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney, Hobart, Perth, and Cairns with its workforce comprising over 260 staff, including product specialists, qualified surveyors, support staff, and factory-trained

The iCON site excavator system is designed to increase the efficiency and accuracy of small-scale trenching, grading, and earthmoving operations.

Smart supply solutions

CARMIX’s self-loading 4x4 mixer units provide concrete solutions for remote sites and difficult-to-access locations.

In Australia, contractors and developers are often faced with the logistical challenge of supplying concrete for remote projects.

These can include:

• Remote community housing in Central Australia, Northern Territory, or Western Australia

Mine sites requiring small volume concrete works

• Roadworks in rural areas requiring stabilised sand backfilling or drainage

• Island batching of concrete

Steep incline access for telecommunications towers, ski and mountain projects

• Small wind farm base pours in remote or rugged regions.

Concrete supply on projects such as these has always been a challenge, and can often add significant cost. With the recent demand for infrastructure, this has seen long-distance concrete delivery prices soar.

Based on more than 40 years of experience in concrete machinery, CARMIX’s Italian-built selfloading batching units are designed to address many of these problems.

These self-contained batching plants allow operators to load aggregates and cement directly into the drum from the hopper, and add water with an onboard pump. This is all controlled and monitored in the cabin via the load cell display. Slump can be monitored by the Pro Mix option, and a printout can be generated on completion to register the batch. The combination of simplicity and accuracy makes the CARMIX units perfect for remote regions where time and delays waiting for concrete can cost big money.

With support from both CARMIX and Australian agent Pilecom Equipment –including guidance for first-time users, contractors can be confident that their

investment will help them safely and economically batch good quality concrete on site.

The CARMIX 3.5TT (3m3) and 5.5XL (5m3) are the best-selling models, and are currently in stock through CARMIX and Pilecom. With the correct site set-up and material supply, a single CARMIX 5.5XL can produce up to 60m3 per day, and the 3.5TT is capable of up to 30m3 per day.

Sales

CARMIX is now the number one supplier of self-loading concrete mixers in Australia. With branches in Somersby, New South Wales, and Perth, WA, stock is placed in the highest demand locations.

CARMIX has also recently broadened its range to include:

• The 3-tonne CARMIX Bagger – a cement hopper for 1-tonne bulk bag cement dispensing

The 52-tonne (36m3) CARMIX Carsilo – a horizontal cement silo for larger daily pours and savings on bulk cement delivery. These together represent a great equipment package to which customers can add their aggregates and water supply.

All up, CARMIX offers six models of loader mixers, four models of silo – both horizontal silos and conical hoppers, as well as a T15 compact trailer pump (15m3 per hour). Various options are available depending on customer needs, and provided in line with various Australian safety requirements.

Rental

Due to the nature of the equipment, Pilecom offers rentals on a case-by-case basis depending on location and overall project duration.

Support

Pilecom Equipment has developed a support system that covers:

• Recommended spare parts

• Maintenance guidance and training

• Unit cleaning suggestions (with options for safe chemical cleaning and prevention of build up)

• Support to RTOs for operator VOC certification

• Supply of slump testing equipment and training

• Assistance with mix designs

An investment in CARMIX is an investment in your improved delivery and potential to carry out projects that have concrete supply and delivery issues.

CARMIX Australia is committed not just to selling quality self-loading mixer dumpers, but partnering with customers to help ensure complete control of their concrete and equipment needs.

For more information, visit: www.carmix.com.au, email sales@pilecomequipment.com.au, or contact Boyd Cousins on 0400 365 575

CARMIX self-loading batching units provide the ideal solution for supplying concrete to remote projects.

CARMIX and Pilecom partner with customers to help provide control of their concrete supply.

DEVELON: a new beginning

Doosan is eyeing a bright future for its construction equipment range under its new name, DEVELON.

Doosan is marking a new beginning, replacing the Doosan brand on its construction equipment with its new brand name, DEVELON.

DEVELON is a combination of the words ‘Develop’ and ‘Onwards,’ which represents Doosan’s new beginning and challenging spirit. The new brand name encompasses our willingness to move onwards to the future through innovation, and to relentlessly change the world with top-level products and solutions. Made to move the earth

Doosan has a long history of developing products and solutions needed for building infrastructure to improve our world. Through the years, we’ve focused on providing products and solutions that exceed the expectations of the industry and our customers. Moving forward, we’ll introduce more innovative products and solutions that will go beyond the world’s expectations.

Continuous evolution, for better

With the new brand name DEVELON, Doosan will bring growing momentum with the next leap forward as a global leader in construction equipment products and solutions for building infrastructure.

We are DEVELON

A bold name to welcome a new era for our business that encapsulates our core ambition to continue developing onwards and leaving

behind a positive footprint in our world. Our core values remain unchanged as our dedication to advance the world still is an integral part of our identity.

The Doosan construction equipment range will be rebranded DEVELON.

The DEVELON name will usher in a new era for Doosan.

The best is now even better

Featuring 10 per cent more horsepower than its predecessor (the ASV RT-120), the new ASV RT-135 Posi-Track Loader has claimed the title of the most powerful Compact Track Loader in the world.

ASV hasn’t produced this new marvel for titles and records, however – the RT-135 is designed to give operators a new level of performance, comfort, efficiency, and profitability.

Maximum power is paired with a premium operator experience, as the completely upgraded RT-135 is part of the new ASV MAXSeries line-up – offering superior comfort and ease-of-use.

Additionally, the optional Forestry variant of the RT-135 is outfitted with forestry-rated guarding and safety features, and is therefore built to tackle brush cutting, mulching, land clearing, and other debris-heavy applications with never-before-seen efficiency.

Key features include:

• Industry-leading 132 horsepower Cummins engine and 189 LPM maximum auxiliary flow allows the RT-135 to transfer more engine power to the attachment with no sacrifices to machine performance.

• 196-litre fuel tank – 83 litres larger than its RT-120 predecessor – ensuring minimal downtime for refuelling, therefore maximising profitability.

• Significantly boosted tipping load capacity of 5379kg – up from the 4853kg offered by the RT-120

• New MAX-Series Cab: 360-degree visibility, LED lighting, more spacious, pressurised for all-weather performance, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and a state-of-the-art

7-inch touch-screen display provides vital monitoring tools, displays the reverse camera view, and integrates with service history and schedules.

Intuitive operator controls benefit operators of all skill levels and a dual throttle option.

• Frameless door with 3/4-inch polycarbonate, plus 1/2-inch polycarbonate side panels (meets level 2 safety standards). Roof escape to improve operator safety in emergency situations.

• Less dirt penetration and easier-to-access engine componentry results in minimised service and repair requirements. Improved undercarriage: redesigned torsion axles are 20 per cent stronger and 150mm wider than their predecessors for improved comfort, stability, and less ground disturbance, and a class-leading 381mm of ground clearance providing a level of operator access not possible on other machines.

ASV stands behind the reliability of its entire range of Posi-Track loaders, with an industry leading 2-year, 2000-hour warranty – plus a nationwide Australian service network ready to assist with any machine requirement, to minimise your downtime and maximise your profitability.

For more information on the new ASV RT-135 and RT-135F Posi-Track Loaders, contact your local dealer to schedule a demo or product walkaround at: www.asvaus.com

The ASV RT-135 Posi-Track Loader is the world’s

most powerful compact

track loader.

The MAX-Series Cab is designed for superior comfort and visibility.

The optional Forestry variant is built to tackle debris-heavy applications with ease.

ASV Posi-Track loaders are backed by a 2-year, 2000-hour warranty.

Local quality: Alltrades Trailers

Alltrades Trailers offers innovative custom trailer solutions, backed by quality and reliability.

Alltrades Trailers is a Queensland-based company manufacturing, designing, and revolutionising plant equipment trailers.

Alltrades was established after a plant hire purchase did not meet expectations, and the team took it upon themselves to engineer and manufacture what has become a leading design in all things plant and equipment trailers.

Starting out in a small shed on the Northern Gold Coast, they now operate out of a purposebuilt manufacturing facility in Luscombe on the Northern Gold Coast. With their everexpanding team of qualified professionals, they make a point to use the best quality materials available to create custom designs to meet any requirements. Alltrades Trailers also manufactures a range of attachment carriers to accommodate augers, drills, trenchers, and rock hammers across their whole trailer range.

Alltrades’ current range of 20 trailer designs ranges from 2-tonne to 4 to 5-tonne, both mechanical and electric braked. These designs cater for a full range of equipment and applications including mini excavators, skid steer loaders, mini loaders, scissor lifts, vacuum pumps, and generators, and can also be custom designed to suit any trailer requirements.

Alltrades Trailers has also responded to the need for a trailer design rated to 6-tonne ATM. This trailer is an air braked, ABS model with a carry capacity of 4 tonnes. They have also worked closely with their axle supplier to build an Australian-made trailer rateable to 3500kg ATM without the need for electric brakes. This system is a hydraulic braked trailer with an override coupler and breakaway, and is approved by the Department of Infrastructure and registerable in all states of Australia.

Alltrades Trailers has enjoyed a rapidly

to only make bigger waves, starting with the release of the 9-tonne Mini Tag Range. Alltrades Trailers has also recently invested

All-Load Aluminium loading ramps. The All-Load Aluminium loading ramps range is available from 1.5-tonne to 6-tonne, and built to suit steel, rubber tracks, and pneumatic tyres. The ramps are REPQ certified and tested and manufactured from structural grade aluminium. They also own all their material dies, which gives them control of the material quality.

At Alltrades Trailers, they pride themselves on their reputation and reliability, and take the company values of Excellence, Innovation, Integrity, and Teamwork seriously. They’ve worked with some of the largest OEMs, and were recognised in 2022 as Best Plant Equipment & Trailers Supplier – Queensland at the APAC Insider Australian Enterprise Awards.

Impressive 6 tonne airbrakes with ABS.

All-Load Aluminium loading ramps are manufactured from structural grade aluminium, and are REPQ certified.

PLANT AND EQUIPMENT TRAILERS

 New release 6 tonne plant trailer with atm 6000kg and carry capacity 4000kg, air braked, ABS, suitable for excavators and skid steer loaders.

 Trailers for a range of

1300 611 301 sales@alltradestrailers.com.au 22 Bluerock Dr luscombe qld 4207 www.alltradestrailers.com.au

Low height, high efficiency

Manufactured in Italy, and covered by a twoyear warranty, the new Alemlube ALS system has been performing very well in the Australian market for the last three years.

The Alemlube ALS system can be used on any type of equipment that needs to be greased frequently – trucks, trailers, wheel loaders, excavators, mini skid steers, front, side and rear loaders, AG sprayers, hay bailers, waste recycling plants, and many fixed plant applications.

In the transport sector, fleet owners and owner operators can benefit by having their rigs on the road more, with less downtime and lower running costs.

In the construction machine space plant owners can also keep their machines running longer with pin and bush wear minimised and service lives extended.

John Knight, Alemlube’s ANZ Lube Systems Product Manager, believes that the new system as manufactured outside Milan is taking mobile equipment lubrication to the next level.

“Designed 10 years ago and upgraded five years ago, the pump station has features and benefits that will set new standards and expectations within the industry in Australia and New Zealand,” he says.

“The Alemlube ALS pump station is manufactured from the latest engineering polymer materials making it lighter, stronger and more durable, and it can be used in the

harshest operating conditions with maximum exposure to the elements.”

Designed and built to be used with NLGI2 grease – as specified by most equipment manufacturers – this grease system allows owners and operators to use either the grease of their choice or the grease type specified by the relevant OEMs which, in some instances, can keep warranties in place and effective.

Max Krishnan, Alemlube’s ALS Sales Manager for Australia and New Zealand said: “The systems are coming into the country from The Netherlands on some Dutch and Belgian AG equipment, and they have been operating successfully here and in Europe and the US for many years.

“Combining the product quality with the Alemlube know-how, plant and equipment and truck and trailer owners can have peace of mind when they choose and install the new and innovative Alemlube ALS system.

“Regardless of where you are, what industry you are involved in and how rough and demanding the operating conditions, one can be sure that grease is getting to where it needs to get in the right volumes day in and day out.

“The fact that we have branches around the country, plus our branch in Auckland New Zealand, enables us to support OEM equipment inclusive of our Lube Systems moving both ways across the Tasman.”

Another benefit of utilising the new Alemlube ALS system is that grease points can’t be missed, with difficult or hard to reach points kept perfectly greased regardless of servicing schedules.

With trained and experienced BDMs and Technicians around the country in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Townsville, Alemlube will be there for you when installations or service work is required.

New to the Alemlube ALS range is the latest 8kg low height pump station. Built using the same rugged pump body as the rest of the ALS pump range, the 8kg “fat” pump has a greatly reduced overall height.

This lower height offers more pumpmounting options, particularly for construction machines. The “fat” pump can also fit perfectly into excavator tool lockers and tool boxes, reducing clutter, and keeping walkways clear.

In addition, the reduced height means that in cases where the pump must be fitted on the deck or on top the machine, the low height profile can avoid blocking the operator’s vision, thus creating a safer machine.

If you would like to hear more about how the new Alemlube ALS system works and how it can improve your plant and equipment’s operating times, reduce running and maintenance costs, and lift equipment productivity and profitability, contact your local Alemlube Lube Systems BDM.

Alemlube’s new Low Height ALS Lube System Pump Station offers reduced running and maintenance costs, while improving equipment productivity and profitability.

The stronger and more durable pump station can withstand exposure to the harshest elements.

Reduced height means more pump-mounting options, and less obstruction of vision from the cabin.

Right part, right price, right now.™

As an Australian family-owned company with global reach, Tilly’s is proud to stock over 43,000 new part lines for your earthmoving machinery. Tilly’s quality alternative undercarriage range extends from track groups to idlers, rollers, sprockets and track adjusters suitable for dozers up to D9 and excavators up to 30 tonne.

Tilly's are pleased to now offer a range of quality low-hour machines including General Construction Excavators and Loaders and D6-D8 ex-United States machines.

Tilly's is now offering account customers online ordering of over 30,000 parts for even quicker turnaround time, because we understand that down-time for your machines has a huge impact on your bottom line. That’s why we guarantee the quality of our new parts to ensure you are staying on track.

Diesel Dirt & Turf golf day supports local community

responds to crisis calls from people who need a hand up with food, clothing, and furniture. The foundation offers hot meals six nights a week, supplies food and toiletry packs, as well as providing clothing, sleeping bags, swags, and blankets to keep the homeless warm.

Generous donors

Expo manager Marti Zivkovich thanked the hole sponsors Kanga/Digga, Steelwrist, SBA Earthmoving Attachments, Holiday Inn St Marys, Toyota Material Handling, Toro Australia, Pickles, and Zac’s window tinting.

The 2023 Diesel Dirt & Turf golf day kicked off to a great start with 107 players teeing off in the annual fund-raising event, which has become a much-anticipated social highlight of the year for the construction industry.

Bringing together some of the industry’s most enthusiastic golfers, the day has become a favourite for players of all levels. Each year a worthy cause is nominated to receive the proceeds raised through the generous donations and support of the industry.

This year, Western Sydney-based Mama Lana’s Community Foundation (MLCF) was

chosen to receive the $15,000 raised through the event.

Community beneficiary

MLCF founder, Lana Borg said: “These tough times have seen an increase in the number of people needing assistance with food and basic necessities. The $15,000 raised through the generosity of the earthmoving industry will assist us greatly in continuing to support those in need.”

MLCF also works with and supports other local charities and community services, and

“Our thanks to all sponsors who contributed to making it a great day, including drinks sponsor, ITR Pacific and raffle donors Hitachi CM Australia, Sydney Dragway, International Greenkeepers (Public group), Credit One Business & Equipment Finance, Kanga Loaders, Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club, Komatsu Australia, Semco Equipment Sales, and Toro Australia for donating amazing raffle prizes,” Marti said.

The dates for the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at Ferrers Road Eastern Creek, New South Wales are Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd, and Sunday, 23rd April 2023.

To enquire or book to secure your exhibitor site contact the Expo manager, Marti on 0411 648 465 or apply online by

Thanks to the generosity of the construction industry, the successful event raised $15,000 for a good cause.

Generous sponsors helped the event raise $15,000 for charity.

The DD&T golf day has become an industry favourite event for golfers of all levels.

YOU DESERVE

A SMOOTHER, BETTER BUSINESS WITH CALTEX

At Caltex, we are committed to providing the most advanced premium industrial lubrication technologies available for every kind of operation - from mining to agriculture, power generation to construction, trucking to global marine. No matter what challenges you might face, the journey will be Smoother, Better, Together with Caltex.

Talk to your local distributor or find out more about Caltex fuels and lubricants.

www.caltex.com/au/business-solutions

EZ17e Electric Zero Tail Excavator

Zero Emission. Fully electric and full performance.

Tough performers

Delivering premium performance, the new Cat® 950 and 962 Next Generation Wheel Loaders feature standard simple-to-use technologies that boost operator efficiencies, provide consistent bucket fill factors and increase productivity by up to 10 per cent over the previous models. These flexible loaders offer application-specific designs to excel in the toughest applications, while service intervals are extended to lower maintenance costs by up to 30 per cent.

Their field proven, reliable Cat C7.1 engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 and offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel and air systems. An electric fuel self-priming pump, fuel water separator and secondary fuel filter combine with new component design to offer unmatched reliability and uptime.

Product Specialist Dick Mars details the introduction of the latest addition to the line of Cat next generation medium wheel loaders.

Simple-to-use technologies

“Similar to the 980 and 982 released in 2021, the 966 and 972 released in 2022, all six models in the updated 950 and 962 range represent a new generation in wheel loader performance and design created over a 60-year history,” Dick said.

“Feedback from years of research, coupled with customer panels and surveys, has resulted in the development of a new breed of machines that excel in performance, efficiency, safety, and comfort.”

All models in the updated 950 and 962 loader series feature standard Cat Payload with Assist for accurate weighing of bucket payloads, so operators can load to target the first time,

Premium performance and simple-to-use technologies advance operating efficiency, productivity of the new Cat® 950 and 962 Wheel Loaders.

The new Cat 950 Wheel Loader.

The Cat Performance Series Buckets balance bucket shape, profile, and features against the loader’s linkage.

streamlined new layout, facilitates loader operation, allowing operators of all experience levels to be more productive. One press of the button to set up Application Profiles that enables multiple machine parameters for the work being done and you’re all set for the job.

“In addition, by wirelessly connecting the machine to the office, Product Link™ gives access to production and essential machine health information for making fact-based decisions.”

Loader and operation productivity are further enhanced with optional Cat technologies. Available Cat Advanced Payload with Assist includes Tip Off Assist to automate load adjustment of the final bucket to match target. Plus, its enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features help manage and improve productivity. Also helping to improve profitability of operations, the optional Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information.

“The Tip Off Assist button helps operators to accurately hit their targets every time,” Dick said. “It takes out all the guesswork and ensures higher accuracy through cycle time consistency to target, eliminating re-weigh errors.”

Greater efficiency and production

The consistently high bucket fill factors provided by new Autodig with Auto Set Tires delivers up to 10 per cent more productivity for the 950 and 962, compared to the previous models. Single clutch and lock-to-lock shifting of the 5-speed transmission offers faster acceleration and speed on grades. The new loaders offer improved traction with standard front manual differential locks, with optional automatic front and rear differential locks available, to increase productivity, reduce tyre scuffing, and lower operating costs.

“In Australia, the 950 and 962 are equipped with our parallel Z-bar linkage,” Dick said. “The parallel Z-bar linkage offers parallel lift capability for precise integrated work tool control (IT as a Utility) as well as providing high breakout force at ground level that can be switched in the cab.

“In addition, the Cat Performance Series Buckets balance bucket shape, profile, and features against the loader’s linkage, resulting

Above: The new high-resolution touch displays affords intuitive, user-friendly operation.

in faster bucket loading cycles that reduce fuel consumption and support higher fill factors and better material retention. For added convenience, the Cat Fusion™ Quick Coupler offers easy tool changes without the operator leaving the cab. This allows the machine to move quickly from task to task.”

Elevated comfort and safety

New Sound suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounting decreases noise levels and vibration feedback to the operator for a quieter and more comfortable work environment. Providing excellent comfort and accuracy, the standard HMU steering wheel offers precise machine control. A seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering option replaces the HMU steering wheel to deliver low-arm-fatigue operation, like the standard offered on the larger 966 through to 982 Next Gen Loaders. New in-cab dashboard and high-resolution touch displays afford intuitive, user-friendly operation.

The new 950 and 962 come standard with a rear-vision camera to enhance visibility behind the loader and work safely. Industry-leading allaround visibility is achieved through the cab’s floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors, and rear-vision camera. Optional Multiview (360-degree) vision system, Cat Detect radar technology, access light, and an under-hood service lighting system are available to further enhance safe operation and maintenance.

“We take safety to the next level with Cat Detect technology. It’s similar to our cars where an audible and visual alarm sounds when you are reversing close to objects behind you,” Dick explained.

“The new next generation of wheel loaders is built with safety in mind. We want to keep the jobsite safe for everyone, aided by enhanced features in the cab such as standard monitored seat belts with an optional exterior beacon feature for supervisors, and the cab windshield which extends from floor-to-ceiling improves visibility.”

Lower maintenance time and costs

“One thing you will be quick to notice is the savings in maintenance time and costs,” Dick said. “The ongoing filter and fluid costs are now up to 30 per cent lower on the new models thanks to new change intervals.”

Connecting the machine to a Cat dealer’s service department, Remote Troubleshoot helps to efficiently diagnose problems, so the loader can get back to work quickly. Ensuring the new loaders operate with the most up to date software, Remote Flash pushes software updates to the machine in the background and installation can be initiated by the customer in a safe manner, reducing impact on production schedules. The Cat App helps to manage fleet location, hours, and maintenance schedules, and provides alerts for required maintenance.

The new 950 and 962 can be ordered direct from the Caterpillar factory with applicationspecific configurations to optimise performance and machine durability in the toughest applications. Subject to regional availability, industrial and waste models feature additional guarding and reinforcement, while the forestry model increases lift and tilt capabilities of the loader using a different linkage.

More information on the new Cat 950 and 962 Wheel Loaders can be found by contacting a Cat dealer or visiting: www.cat.com.

The Cat Payload with Assist feature means operators no longer need to worry about under or overloading their trucks.

Ramping up – Jetland loading Ramps

Jetland has established itself as a leading supplier of high-strength, heavy duty loading ramps in Australia, with its extensive product portfolio including a number of lines tailored for use with bulky earthmoving and construction machines.

Jetland’s loading ramp range spans from a 1 tonne up to a 21 tonne load capacity, and measures in from 2m through to 6m in length, decked out to cater for a range of industry requirements, while it can also custom-build ramps for individual client purposes.

Its ramps use high-quality raw material and safety testing systems to ensure a safe and reliable product, providing operators confidence in carrying out the secure loading and unloading of different types of machines. Across its different product lines, Jetland provides a comprehensive range of choice, enabling its clients to match ramp load capacities and lengths to their specific requirements.

Jetland’s A, B, C, and D series cater for larger machines

Jetland’s A, B, C, and D series product lines are decked out to cater for larger machinery loading and unloading, spanning from 2 tonne to 16 tonne in load capacity across the range, and available in a variety of different lengths.

The A, B, C, and D series ramps are made

from super-strong aluminium, making them lightweight and portable, with features variously including a non-skid surface, flat rungs for smooth loading, and heavy duty raised tread on flat rungs (see individual products for specifications).

Across each of these series, Jetland offers:

• A Series – suitable for rubber track machines; available in 2-8t load capacities and 2.5-4.2m lengths; spanning 25 ramps in various configurations

• B Series – suitable for rubber track, rubber tyre machines; available in 2-8 tonne load

capacities and 1.8-3.9m lengths; spanning 32 ramps in various configurations

• C Series – suitable for rubber track, rubber tyre machines; available in 4-21 tonne load capacities and 2.5-4.5m lengths; spanning 33 ramps in various configurations

D Series – suitable for steel track, rubber pads on steel, rubber track and rubber tyre machines; available in 6-21 tonne load capacities and 2.5-4.8m lengths; spanning 39 ramps in various configurations

Jetland advises it is important to consider the machine wheelbase when evaluating ramp loading capacity, and to choose a ramp with an internal width that is at least 5cm wider than the wheels or tracks of the loaded machinery.

Jetland ships Australia-wide

Based out of Victoria, Jetland ships free Australia-wide directly to a business address (loading facilities such as a forklift required) or to the nearest depot (information on Jetland’s depot network is available via its website). Jetland also offers a 12-month warranty with its loading ramps, providing its clients additional peace of mind, and backs its product range with a high-quality, informative, and responsive service offering.

Further information can be found at: www.jetlandramps.com.au

Jetland high-strength, heavy duty loading ramps are built to last.

Jetland uses high-quality material and safety testing systems to ensure reliability.

Jetland offers custom-built ramps for specific purposes.

HEAVY DUTY LOADING RAMPS

JETLAND is a leading supplier of high strength & heavy duty Aluminium loading ramps in Australia. High quality raw material and safety testing systems ensure a safe and reliable product.

No manufacturing delays, all ramps listed online are in stock at our warehouse in Mordialloc, Victoria.

We can also supply Custom built ramps - made to your specifications for your particular needs.

Free Delivery

Australia wide.

Welcome

It’s hard to believe we’re back again with another special bumper Diesel Dirt & Turf (DD&T) edition of Earthmoving Equipment Magazine for 2023!

A fair bit has changed at EEM HQ since this time last year – and there’s plenty new to get excited about in the earthmoving equipment world too. And what better place to keep up with the latest than by getting your boots on the ground at DD&T 2023 with a copy of EEM in hand? At 180-odd pages, this issue is sure to provide a decent workout. Why not bring the whole family along for three days of earthmoving fun? And don’t forget to drop into the EEM stand to say g’day to the team while you’re there!

But don’t despair – if you can’t make it down to the Sydney Dragway this time, we’ve got some great stories right here to keep you up to date on everything earthmoving.

First off, check out what City Circle Group is up to at the old Holden manufacturing site in Port Melbourne, where the team is putting

a brand new 75-tonne Volvo excavator to use. Elsewhere in Melbourne, CG Civil’s Rob Kennedy has welcomed a brand-new 40-tonne Kobelco excavator into his fleet – complete with a ripping custom (and very Aussie) paint job.

Further north, the team at Haines Bros Earthmoving has been putting a new LiuGong 856H wheel loader through its paces in Western Sydney. We also team up with Steve Ryan from Ryan’s Earthmoving to get an in-depth look at Wacker Neuson’s new fully-electric mini excavator – the results may shock you!

Lastly, we check in with Cat® product expert Rohan Mills to hear about the latest suit of smart features coming to the Cat mini excavator range, and how operators can benefit.

Following the excitement of the Asia Pacific finals in Japan late last year, the EEM team was on the ground once again at CONEXPO-CON/ AGG in Las Vegas to see Team Aussie put in a winning performance at the 2023 Cat Global Operator Challenge finals. And once again,

team EEM proved a lucky charm – as Patrick Doheny from Melbourne’s CRE Group lifted the first-place trophy overhead.

Paddy may be an Irishman deep down, but he had every Aussie operator cheering him on from across the globe as he flexed his 25 years of earthmoving experience on his way to bringing the World Champion trophy home to Australia (keep an eye out for more in the next issue of EEM ).

Fellow Aussie Nick Thompson from South Australia’s Modcon Civil also did the nation proud as one of the nine finalists. Though he didn’t collect any silverware on the day, nothing could wipe the grin from that cheery bearded face!

Meanwhile, as we count down the days to DD&T 2023, we hope this massive edition of EEM gives you plenty to grin about too.

See you on the turf!

Syed Shah Managing Editor

(L-R) 2023 Cat® Global Operator Challenge World Champion Patrick Doheny of CRE Group, Cameron Balzat of Caterpillar, and Aussie finalist Nick Thompson.

CONTRIBUTORS

Jamie Gray

Jamie has been a professional photographer in Sydney for over two decades. He is the owner of Camera, Hammer and Tong, who provides digital content for small businesses in and around the construction industry. He is also a photo journalist & the product feature editor for What Tradies Want Magazine. But he’s just as comfortable with a hammer in his hand as a camera and pen. Undertaking a mature age carpentry apprenticeship in his 40s and still gets the nail bag on when he can.

Martin Kovacs is a journalist with experience covering the business, technology and energy sectors. Over the past 10 years, Martin has covered a wide range of subjects across both print and digital media, broadly encompassing business and technology trends, focusing on issues of importance for industry. Martin takes a particular interest in digital technology developments and the manner in which industry continues to adapt and evolve amid the rollout of new technologies.

Mark O’Donoghue is the CEO and founder of Finlease. Financing over $700mil p/a in equipment finance for private business owners in Civil and related industries.

A family business with a nationwide network, Finlease has a 30-year track record of establishing long term relationships with clients, finding them the best finance solutions to support their business growth. The company’s goal is to make the finance process simpler for businesses so they can focus on what they’re good at.

Martin Kovacs

Mark O’Donoghue

Earthmoving Equipment Magazine is published bimonthly by Prime Creative Media Pty Ltd.

SYDNEYDRAGWAY, EASTERNCREEK

CEO John Murphy COO

Christine Clancy

Sales Director Bradley Buchanan

Managing Editor Syed Shah

Journalist Leon Cranswick leon.cranswick@primecreative.com.au

Brand Manager

KahChi Liew kahchi.liew@primecreative.com.au

0421 474 407

Production Editor Michelle Alder michelle.alder@primecreative.com.au

Design Daz Woolley – Art Director Subscriptions

P. +61 3 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au

Website www.earthmovers-magazine.com.au

Copyright Earthmoving Equipment Magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Earthmoving Equipment Magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical, including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

excavator.

Scott is the Director of Australian Earth Training, a niche operator proficiency training organisation who work across the globe. He has over 25 years’ experience in heavy equipment operation and was an accredited Caterpillar Dealer Instructor (CDI) Trainer-Demonstrator. Scott’s unique skill set enables him to operate and train on a broad range of machines across the mining, construction, quarrying and waste industries, helping his customers to boost their productivity while lowering their owning and operating costs.

Ann has been the Manager of Allied Earthmovers Association for the past 19 years bringing many years’ experience into the role. After gaining business qualifications and managing a retail shopping centre in Sydney CBD, Ann first started her career in earthmoving when she joined the long-established family business in Penrith, which specialised in Caterpillar graders and dozers. Working in a male-dominated industry, Ann brings a different aspect to the Association. She has met many people in the industry and knows what the owner operator needs, from the importance of paperwork to machine availability. It’s an industry she respects and is proud to be a part of.

The opinions expressed in Earthmoving Equipment Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher unless otherwise stated.

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2023

Articles

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Head Office 379 Docklands Dr, Docklands VIC 3008

P: +61 3 9690 8766

enquiries@primecreative.com.au

www.primecreative.com.au

Sydney Office Suite 3.06, 1-9 Chandos Street Saint Leonards NSW 2065, Australia

P: +61 2 9439 7227

City Circle Group’s new Volvo EC750DL 75-tonne

Scott Lidster

Ann Callaghan

Cat® General Duty Undercarriage loves the daily grind

Just ask Sam Newman from Shadforth, Queensland.

Shadforth is Queensland’s largest familyowned civil contracting company, specialising in residential, commercial, and industrial subdivisions. Shadforth owns more than 500 pieces of heavy plant equipment which are predominantly Cat® machines, including a fleet of Cat D6 Dozers.

For Shadforth, the Cat General Duty undercarriage is the undercarriage of choice for low-to-medium impact applications.

Sam Newman, Workshop Supervisor at Shadforth, knows the value of balancing performance and cost with Cat General Duty undercarriage.

“It’s very important to have the right undercarriage for the right job,” Sam says. “We’ve trialled all sorts of undercarriage components, genuine and non-genuine. We’ve found the hours and the life of Cat General Duty on our fleet of Cat D6 Dozers is cost-effective and gives us the best machine uptime.”

Cat dealer Hastings Deering worked closely with Sam and the Shadforth team to ensure they had the right undercarriage for their fleet of Cat D6 Dozers. Understanding the customer’s application enabled Hastings Deering to provide the best solution possible.

In this case, Cat General Duty was the most cost-effective option that suited Shadforth’s application.

The Cat General Duty range was designed to provide customers with Cat quality and performance for use in most low-to-medium impact applications, such as non-hard soils, where they would not require Cat Heavy Duty undercarriages. Of all the Cat undercarriage options, you could call it your everyday undercarriage.

The Cat General Duty line also utilises Caterpillar’s heavy duty link design, and the sealing systems are the same as Cat Heavy Duty undercarriage.

That means that seal reliability is consistent across every Cat undercarriage, leading to consistent wear life. It also means that Cat General Duty, Heavy Duty, and Heavy Duty Extended Life (HDXL) components are

interchangeable, eliminating the need for retrofitting helping to reduce inconvenient and expensive downtime.

When it comes to maintaining your undercarriage, Sam and the Shadforth team know the value of Custom Track Service.

“Custom Track Service allows us to get on top of our maintenance earlier,” Sam says. “It allows us to check all our wear measurements and get the most out of it, cost-effectively. It also means our dealer can allow for stock for our machines to be available, in the lead up to undercarriage repairs.”

Regular undercarriage inspections are the best way to help manage undercarriage wear and plan downtime and cost.

Custom Track Service including Track Assurance provides added protection and an extended four-year, 3000-hour warranty* for Cat General Duty undercarriage.

Right now, your Cat dealer has great offers available on Cat Undercarriage options, including 2.99 per cent * interest and secured financing for 24 months. To find out more or to book a free undercarriage inspection*, speak to your local Cat dealer or visit www.cat.com/undercarriage-au to find out more.

Sam Newman, Shadforth Workshop Supervisor.

There’s a Cat undercarriage to suit your application:

General Duty

The General Duty option is ideal for low-to-medium impact applications, delivering the right balance of performance and value.

Heavy Duty Extended Life (HDXL)

Cat Heavy Duty Extended Life (HDXL)

Undercarriage is designed and engineered for maximum durability in the most demanding conditions. HDXL delivers up to 40 per cent † more wear life. It’s got all the robustness you’ll need — and then some.

Cat Abrasion™

Cat Abrasion™ delivers the lowest cost per hour in high-abrasion, low-to-medium impact applications, resulting in up to 50 per cent# lower cost per tonne.

Rubber Track

Cat rubber tracks help your machine go where steel tracks can’t. They help minimise impact and damage to operating surfaces and are advantageous in situations that require high manoeuvrability.

Custom Track Service helps you keep on top of undercarriage maintenance.

Pickles 2023 forecast: Australia’s strongest year for asset sales

How interest rates, asset demand and industrial events will affect the industry in 2023.

At Pickles, we believe that the 2020s will be looked back on as the decade of resourcefulness as businesses continue to navigate a tumultuous economy. As Australians entered 2023 with hope for the year ahead, they were quickly confronted with an unstable market driven by rising interest rates and economic downturn. 2023 is shaping up to be another year of challenging market conditions, but with the right business approach there is much to look forward to

The years following COVID-19 spurred businesses to develop inventive and resourceful practices to maximise asset realisation and stay afloat. The turnover of equipment has become a deciding factor across business operations, with companies capitalising on the circular economy to offload or purchase used equipment.

The businesses that will succeed in the coming years know that investing in the small,

but strong pool of Australian-located assets is the most reliable way to source and sell equipment.

We believe the fluctuating market is the new norm. It is now normal to expect up to two years of delay between buying and receiving newly purchased assets, as the backlog of orders moves incrementally. But until production catches up, extremely long wait times will just be an expectation when it comes to the majority of new orders.

This huge backlog has created a market that allows manufacturers to continue charging inflated prices, irrespective of an economic downturn which would be expected to push the cost of assets down. There’s simply been no need for manufacturers to bring prices down –not when the demand for assets is so high. There are a number of factors affecting international production, including wars, fuel cost, labour shortages, and a variety of shipping

issues. These problems only further exasperate industries that have been impacted by impeded business operations over the last few years.

Many experts believed that as the world re-emerged from COVID-19, the asset market would return to the levels we saw before 2020, but this crash never occurred. Instead, prices wavered, dropped marginally and plateaued to a level somewhere in the middle between pre2020 and COVID-19 prices.

The unstable market has become concerning for some Australian businesses, particularly given the number of industrial companies that have ceased operation in the first few months of 2023. The quick downturn in the beginning of 2023 has resulted in a number of successful businesses being forced to close, which will increase pressure on the remaining companies, which will have the additional challenge of meeting huge demand in public and private construction.

The team at Pickles predicts that there is much to look forward to in 2023.

As businesses continue to be impacted by a seemingly never-ending stream of market fluctuations, remarketing specialists will need to provide quick and expert advice for asset turnover. Turning over assets at the optimum time can help recuperate large portions of asset investment, or even fund new acquisitions in some cases. Whatever the circumstances, Pickles helps guide businesses through the life of an asset, and provides advice on the best times to sell.

Pickles underwent a variety of operational changes during the COVID-affected years, and used the time to transform business practices to being digitally led. Today, the majority of operations are online, although Pickles maintains a number of in-person industrial events each year.

After two years of cancelled and postponed events, Pickles is excited about the future and driven to engage with communities in a multitude of ways.

Throughout the past few years, it has become apparent that the way forward is together. As the industrial sector continues to

face challenging market conditions, uplifting and engaging with the whole community is a necessity. Pickles depends on its long standing and mutually beneficial partnerships to provide clients with a range of business opportunities and solutions to meet every need.

One of our longest and most prosperous partnerships has been with Civil Construction Field Days, which recently became the Heavy Equipment & Machinery Show (HEMS), and for which Pickles is a naming sponsor in 2023.

HEMS will take over Brisbane Showgrounds

from Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 of May. The rebranded show will be run in conjunction with 2023 Brisbane Truck Show, and attendees will only have to purchase one ticket to attend both events, with free shuttles between the two locations. The shows make for a natural collaboration, as many business owners in the industrial sector take an interest in the truck industry, and vice versa.

To create as much fanfare as possible for the rebranded event, Pickles will be hosting a live auction onsite, showcasing a wealth of industrial assets. Featuring screens for

attendees to view assets, as well as some in-person items, the auction is anticipated to draw a large crowd of industrial enthusiasts. Collaboration through events offers an opportunity for industry renewal, and a chance to remind Australian communities that the industrial sector is thriving.

Pickles is thrilled about participating in the many key events that have been cancelled over the past few years.

In years of resourcefulness like 2023, we anticipate Australian businesses pursuing pedigree used assets in a move to resource their needs efficiently. We will see Australian businesses improve capital by offloading assets during periods of peak asset realisation. Buying and selling quality used items within Australia has created a thriving circular economy that keeps the country in business.

We know the value of a well-resourced country. Pickles is proud to uphold Australia’s leading marketplace.

Find what you need today at pickles.com.au

Pickles employees enjoying Civil Construction Field Days 2021 before it became the Heavy Equipment and Machinery Show in 2023.

Presentations don’t have to be a snooze fest

Presentations – you either love them or hate them. That goes for the people creating them as well as those who have to sit through them.

We’ve all endured presentations that we know are going to be a trainwreck before they get past the first slide. So how do we avoid making these mistakes ourselves? It’s actually not that hard. We just have to go back to the basics.

Step 1 – Have one main message

Multiple topics in a presentation will just confuse your audience and leave them weary from trying to join the dots. Make sure your presentation ladders up to one core topic.

Step 2 – Help your audience to understand

Less text, more imagery. Did you know that the average person who hears a piece of information on a Monday will have forgotten 90 per cent of it by Wednesday? But if that same information was conveyed using an infographic or a memorable image that recall skyrockets to 65 per cent.

Step 3 – Remember, a presentation is not a report

Huge blocks of data or slide after slide crammed with text are not going to engage

anyone. You want to have people on the edge of their seats in anticipation, not falling off their seats from boredom.

Presentations don’t have to be hard work. They can actually be fun and help you tap into your inner creative.

Experiment with ways to get your message across. Find cool icons (there are lots of free sites offering these online), get creative with Canva, or maybe use photos that your audience

will instantly align with. It’s all about keeping it simple so the message doesn’t get lost in the clutter we normally fill our screens with.

If you get your presentation right, your audience will not only be able to recall your message days later, they will also feel satisfied that you know your stuff and that you cared enough to prepare a great presentation. You may just inspire them to try a few things in their next presentation!

Infographics can help improve your audience’s retention of information.

Get creative with how you present your content, and avoid huge blocks of text.

Everything new

The generation 8

The strengths of the new generation of crawler excavators include: increased engine power, higher digging forces, large bucket capacities, at the same time, reduced fuel consumption and simplified maintenance work.

www.liebherr.com

Crawler excavators

A day in the life of a training coordinator

Success as a training coordinator hinges on strong negotiation skills, writes Australian Earth Training’s Scott Lidster.

Back in January, I travelled to Tanzania to help deliver a fleet of 777E trucks, a 16 grader and a D10T2 dozer. While I was there, I met Paul Lusato, the training coordinator at the gold mine where the new machines were being delivered.

Paul’s not the first training coordinator I have interacted with as a part of what I do, but after spending two weeks with him and his training department, I thought it would be good for people to gain a greater understanding of what goes on behind the scenes as a training coordinator.

Paul’s day usually kicks off around 5:30am, when he gets to his office to start planning the day’s activities. His priority is aligning the site trainers with their respective training events.

Next on the list is attending the morning production meeting – not to missed! Depending on how production is performing, a lot of training events can be spun out of a production meeting. And from a training coordinator’s perspective, it is extremely helpful while everyone’s in the room to ask department

who front up to the office asking if they can get a light vehicle licence or an overhead crane authorisation – right now! No, no you can’t get

Paul Lusato, training coordinator.

Paul’s first daily priority is aligning site trainers with their respective training events.

Paul says every day as a training coordinator is different.

Punky River Rocks (PRR) has, over the better part of the past 15 years, carved out a strong market niche as a wholesale river rock supplier throughout Victoria and New South Wales. The family business has built its offering around an evolving product line and a high level of customer service, which sees it at the ready to cater for client needs.

Founder and Managing Director Graham Ryleigh, who comes from a background in the garden supply industry, established PRR, based in Porepunkah in Victoria, after learning about local river pebble mining operations and subsequently branching out into the sector.

As Graham told EEM, he made a few enquiries and ended up making a deal with a local farmer, setting up quarrying operations on his land. The business has progressively grown over the years since.

“I started with a Lovol FL966 loader and a Precisionscreen Super Reclaimer 1050, and built from there,” he said. “I built a lot of it myself, such as conveyors, put a few screens together, and then acquired a couple of other machines.

“We mine beautiful river pebble, and we’ve got around eight different product sizes. We’ve been building and making the place a bit bigger year by year, and I’ve got four blokes working for me now.”

Swift service strengthens long-term client relationships

PRR’s product line spans river rocks, stones, and pebbles in a range of colours, sizes, and textures, which are suitable for applications including swimming pools, ponds and water

feature surrounds, dry and running creek beds, waterfalls, retaining walls, paths, steps and mulch for pots and landscaping.

Graham said the product line has evolved over time in line with client requirements, with PRR primarily supplying landscape designers, garden centres and nurseries throughout Victoria and NSW.

“The first client we had was Begley’s Backyard and they’re still with us,” he said. “All of our clients, once they come on board, they usually stay with us.

“When they want an order, we try and get it out to them as quick as we can. And if they need it really urgently, which they usually do, we shuffle things around where we can, and

supply business, Graham pointed to the importance of being able to supply product at short notice, telling EEM he has grown PRR with these type of considerations in mind. As Graham noted, clients, who themselves may be working towards strict deadlines, don’t want to be waiting around for product deliveries – hence why reliable and trustworthy equipment is so important.

“If you want something, you need it now, not in three weeks’ time,” he said.

“So, I’ve sort of run my business on that theory – that I don’t want to get too big, where I’ve got to tell people, ‘no, I haven’t got the product on the ground.’

“When clients ring up, I’m nearly 100 per cent

ESA has brought a comprehensive range of Lovol loaders and excavators to the Australian market.

The Lovol FL926K wheel loader is powered by a Danfoss hydrostatic driveline.

Lovol loaders push on through day in and day out

Having started out with the Lovol FL966F loader when getting his business up and running 14 years ago, Graham subsequently added another FL966F-II loader to his fleet seven years later, with both loaders still getting the job done day in and day out.

Graham told EEM he’d carried out his research prior to purchasing the first loader, noting that while Lovol machines are “a lot cheaper than other loaders on the market, the quality is definitely there”.

“The first one is still running to this day,” he said. “It’s still working the quarry, and it hasn’t missed a beat. And the other one is exactly the same. So, I’m quite impressed with them.

“They haven’t got all the little fancy bits, but they’ll just keep going. If you want a good loader that’s going to last you a lifetime, I would thoroughly recommend them.”

Graham said Lawrence Perkins, Operations Manager at Toowoomba-based Equipment Specialists Australia (ESA), and his team have been on hand to assist when required.

Authorised Lovol distributor ESA has brought a comprehensive range of Lovol loaders and excavators to the local market, catering for clients seeking no-fuss machines that get the job done in tough conditions.

“Lawrence and the rest of the team there have been great,” Graham said. “They have helped out with everything I’ve wanted so far. And that’s probably why I like dealing with them, they’re a bit like myself.”

Lovol’s powerful performance

Lawrence told EEM that the 20 tonne Lovol FL962K loader carries on in the same tradition of robust and dependable Lovol loaders.

“It’s a high-quality machine that compares to the big-name brands,” he said. “Lovol is at the forefront when it comes to hydrostatic wheel loaders, and the new K series has most of the comforts and functions to rival the others.

“Along with the game-changing Danfoss hydrostatic driveline, it is low on plastic and electrically-controlled functions, eliminating problematic items and making it extremely reliable.

“It ultimately provides a performance comparable to the big brand names, and there is notably no AdBlue, DPF, and EGR.”

The FL962K runs a 170kW Cummins QSB7 Tier 3 engine, and along with the Danfoss hydrostatic driveline, is equipped with a DANA 3 speed transfer box and ZF wet brake axles, Rexroth joystick, and other highly renowned componentry.

Additional features include:

• A ROPs and FOPs-certified lined and sealed cab, lessening noise and vibration, decked out with air-conditioning and an

of 3200psi, fuel tank capacity of 350 litres, and travel speed of 40km/h

• A one-piece fully opening side engine cover, enabling ample access (with no bolted covers to remove), fully raised opening rear radiator door, and patented composite reinforced pivot structure and bushings

Dimensions: 8.85m length, 3.3m width and 3.42m height.

“With the new K series’ stylish design, larger cab, Lovol highest quality and reliability, hydrostatic drive, and an expanding dealer network, it’s no wonder Lovol is poised to become one of the big-name brands available

A ROPs and FOPs-certified lined and sealed cab keeps noise and vibration to a minimum.

Graham has been using Lovol equipment since he purchased a FL966F loader 14 years ago.

20-21

Sept 2023

Melbourne’s leading construction and major infrastructure event

EXHIBITION SPACE NOW ON SALE

Inside Construction Expo will deliver

Targeted messaging in over 19 industry-leading publications that reach more than 80,000 decision makers across multiple sectors

Digital communications to 28,000+ engaged readers

Premium networking opportunity with industry leaders at the Foundation Awards gala dinner

insideconstructionexpo.com.au

Bearcat

Tyres, wheels and rubber tracks

It’s well worth celebrating this great business which specialises as a solution provider for the material-handling and off-highway sectors. Providing tyres, wheels and tracks in this space truly is a speciality area, and Bearcat is Australia’s leading provider of specialty inhouse Australian wheels. For example, when a forklift or material handler in construction, mining, commercial and other off-highway applications damages a wheel and the owner simply can’t find a replacement, Bearcat’s team of specialty technicians can custom make a wheel to the highest standard available. Also, when it comes to replacing tyres or tracks for anything from excavators, skid steers, roller/ compactors, ridged dump trucks, loaders of all kinds, graders, dump carts, articulated dump trucks and forklifts through to asphalt pavers, platform lifts and a pile of other tyres and tracks for too many machines to mention, Bearcat has you covered with fresh rubber on the shelf for a huge range of requirements.

Bearcat Branch at Girraween

Chatting with Lyle Pearce at the Girraween Bearcat facility, it’s quickly apparent family values are solidly entrenched within the Bearcat business model and the staff are more like family members than employees.

Lyle shared, “We really value our team and staff and are very proud of the fact we still manufacture in-house here in Australia. While all our tyres are imported – there’s no tyre manufacturing in Australia – we do have a nice little wheel-manufacturing plant here where we do speciality wheels for the offhighway segment. For conversions or special applications, or just for when you’ve damaged a wheel and can’t get a replacement, we can get our customers back up and working. That’s something we’re very proud of.

“People come to us needing a replacement wheel from various industries, including forklifts, construction, skid steers and even underground mining and many other speciality

2023 is the 50th anniversary for Bearcat’s tyre division and 20th anniversary for its wheel-manufacturing division.

With 2023 being the 50th anniversary for Bearcat’s tyre division and 20th anniversary for its wheel-manufacturing division, we figured it was time we headed out to Girraween in Sydney’s west to catch up with General Manager Lyle Pearce.

Bearcat General Manager, Lyle Pearce.

applications for airports, and it’s an honour to get these people’s problems solved and get them back to business.”

Part of the Michelin group

Bearcat has been part of the Michelin Group for the past four years.

By all reports it’s been a wonderful change for Bearcat as all the manufacturing and distribution strengths have come across from Michelin.

It was back in 1973 that John Bloxham originally set up Bearcat Tyres, an American enterprise specialising in forklift tyres and material handlers, with a small team of four in Alexandria. Today the business operates from seven branches nationally, with a team of 80 staff.

Despite this growth, Bearcat has remained a family-oriented business through and through, and it’s inspiring to see the care it has for its people, what they do and its customers. But

today Bearcat can enjoy being a part of a very large organisation and the benefits and strengths that come along with that. On a tour of the facility, we saw the team in action across a wide range of day-to-day aspects of the Bearcat business. A tyre-fitting area that predominantly removes and fits solid tyres was working hard, and tyre filling is clearly another big aspect of Bearcat’s activities. With in-house as well as regional dealers, Bearcat is Australia’s number-one provider of equipment

Tyres are puncture-proofed by being filled with various materials.

Bearcat has fresh rubber on the shelf for a huge range of requirements.

Bearcat’s team of specialty technicians can custom make a wheel to the highest standard available.

and materials to allow local operators to provide tyre-filling services in regional communities. Tyres are puncture-proofed by being filled with various materials.

Bearcat is also Australia’s number-one provider to the material-handling sector.

Australian manufacturing

As we made our way around the Bearcat facility, from the wheel-manufacturing plant, where there were several welding projects under way (including submerged arc welding), we really got an appreciation for the people who are the backbone of the business and just how important it is to keep manufacturing alive in this country. It’s highly skilled people like these who lose their jobs when companies make the decision to take their manufacturing offshore.

With seven branches now in Australia and one in Auckland, NZ, and with a huge selection of tyres, wheels and tracks available, make sure next time you need a wheel replacement or any sort of rubber for your machinery and equipment you get in contact with one of the Bearcat branches. These guys and girls will truly bend over backwards to solve your problem and get you back to work as quickly as they can.

CELEBRATING

When there’s no replacement available for a damaged a wheel, Bearcat can get customers back up and working.

YEARS

1973 - 2023

Time for transformation

Melbourne’s premier construction and infrastructure event Inside Construction Expo 2023 will amplify transformation across the commercial and civil construction sectors, and with excitement already brewing it’s time to plan your attendance.

An event dedicated to major commercial and civil projects in the Australian construction industry, Inside Construction Expo is being launched from 20 to 21 September 2023 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. With a robust conference program featuring top level speakers, a world-class exhibition showcasing the latest in equipment and technology, and the Inside Construction Foundation Awards celebrating talented industry individuals and businesses, Inside Construction Expo 2023 is a must-attend event.

The significant investment growth in construction and infrastructure projects across Victoria in recent years – driven by the Victoria’s Big Build program – makes Melbourne the ideal location for the expo’s launch.

Set to connect OEMs, sub-contractors, and operators with major constructors, Expo Events Manager Lauren Winterbottom says the event is positioned to further foster the successful delivery of projects in the pipeline.

“While other construction expos in Australia exist, Inside Construction Expo was created to fill the apparent gap in events targeted at major commercial and civil projects,” she says.

“With such a large investment in infrastructure, we’re seeing the best in new industry developments – from safety to technology – rolled out before our eyes.

“Unlike other expos that have a major focus on residential developments, we saw the opportunity to put a spotlight on the major vertical and civil construction projects that are shaping our regions and cities.”

In the 2022-23 Federal Budget, the Government increased its 10-year infrastructure investment pipeline to a record $120 billion.

The 2022-23 Victorian Budget outlines $85.3 billion in general government spending on infrastructure over the next four years.

There’s a plethora of projects planned for the

coming years nationwide, but considerable industry challenges remain. Inside Construction Expo 2023 will provide a platform to canvass solutions to the issues hampering the commercial and civil construction sectors. With four stages across the event focusing on Health, Safety and Wellbeing; Training, Education and Careers; Digital Transformation and Connectivity; and Construction Productivity; there will be a wealth of information on offer across the conference.

“Throughout the conference attendees can expect to hear from executive-level representatives from Australia’s major constructors and suppliers, alongside research and education bodies and government figures,” Lauren says.

“The exhibition show floor spans up to 15,000 square metres across 10 bays and will display the latest in construction machinery and equipment.”

The Inside Construction Foundation Awards

Showcasing the innovative people and projects that are making waves in the Australian major construction and civil infrastructure industries, the Inside Construction Foundation Awards will take place as part of Inside Construction Expo on Wednesday 20 September 2023.

The Awards will recognise the individuals and businesses promoting initiatives, innovation, and safety throughout major and local projects.

“If you are involved in revolutionising the construction sector, providing a solution for a constructor or an individual driving positive change in the industry, we want to celebrate you,” Lauren says.

“Nominating is free and open until 11:59pm Friday 14 July 2023 – and all finalists receive a complimentary ticket to attend the Awards night in Melbourne.”

The Foundation Awards gala dinner will also

provide a premium networking opportunity with industry leaders during a glamorous night of celebration.

Nominations can be submitted for free online at www.foundationawards.com.au.

Partners and sponsors

Inside Construction Expo is backed by support from a number of valued organisations and media partners. Without this support, Lauren says the event would not be possible.

“We’re pleased to be partnering with industry associations The National Association of Women in Construction, The Working at Height Association of Australia, The Concrete Pumping Association of Australia, The Crane Industry Council of Australia, The Institute of Quarrying Australia and The Formwork Industry Association to bring Inside Construction Expo to life,” she says.

“In the lead up to the event, over 19 industryleading publications continue to extensively cover the latest in Expo news reaching more than 80,000 decision makers across multiple sectors.”

Exclusive Sponsorship Packages are now available to promote your corporate identity and to advertise your products and services leading up to, during, and post-event.

Plan your attendance

Whether you’re a project manager, superintendent or an engineer, all professionals in the field of construction are invited to attend Inside Construction Expo 2023. Registration is completely free for both the exhibition and conference. You’re welcome to come and go as you please and curate a conference experience that suits you.

If you’d like to attend, exhibit, submit a presentation or become a sponsor, visit: www.insideconstructionexpo.com.au

The significant growth in construction driven by Victoria’s Big Build makes Melbourne the ideal location for the expo’s launch.

Easy does it

For earthmoving businesses and operators whose bread and butter is working in smaller machines – life is about to get a whole lot easier.

Cat Next Generation Mini Excavators, including the 306 CR, 308 CR, and 309 CR models, can now be fitted with new technology features called E-Fence and Indicate to improve productivity and accuracy on the jobsite.

Offering similar features previously found only in the larger Cat excavator models, this suite of features aims to simplify machine operation while improving accuracy and enhancing productivity. This is designed to help operators work more efficiently and safely – regardless of their experience level.

To learn more, EEM caught up with Cat Expert Rohan Mills at William Adams in Melbourne to delve into this technology, and see it in use on the Cat 306 CR Mini Excavator.

EEM chats to Rohan Mills about the benefits of the new Cat® Ease of Use technology suite, now available within the Mini Excavator range.

New E-Fence and Indicate technology features are available on select Cat Next Generation Mini Excavator models.

Rohan Mills, Caterpillar Australia.

Rohan says there are several key elements which contribute to what they are calling the “Ease of Use” suite, but the beauty of the system is its usability and functionality – enabling operators of any experience level to take advantage of these features after just basic training.

“Machines with Ease of Use fitted include a group of sensors located on the bucket linkage, stick, boom, boom swing, and swing motor,” Rohan says. “This ensures the machine – and therefore operator – always knows precisely where the bucket is relative to the undercarriage.”

Data from these sensors is what drives the key Ease of Use features called E-Fence, Indicate and Assist.

According to Rohan, these features are generating excitement among customers who are eager to take advantage of the many jobsite benefits they create.

“Ease of Use technology offers a level of confidence to those looking to embrace the latest technology, meet deadlines, and help avoid expensive damage to infrastructure and the machine itself,” he says.

The new features are easily accessible via the Ease of Use menu on the advanced touchscreen monitor.

E-Fence

E-Fence allows operators to constrain the machine’s range of motion according to custom boundaries.

This can be enabled quickly and easily by navigating through the menu on the advanced Cat touch screen monitor. E-Fence can be selected within the Ease of Use menu, and the operator can then set the desired movement limitations. These can be adjusted independently for ceiling, wall, floor as well as left and right swing. The operator will then be unable to move the bucket past those points, regardless of control inputs.

This helps prevent unwanted contact with any object outside the E-Fence boundaries – particularly beneficial when working near overhead power lines, traffic or buildings, or even with known but hidden underground utilities nearby.

Indicate

The Indicate feature provides both visible and audible indications of where the bucket is relative to target grade.

Rohan explains: “If, for example, you want to dig a 2m-long trench with a particular specification, you simply enable Indicate on the Ease of Use menu, and set your required length, depth, grade, and offset.

“Once this quick and easy process is completed, you’ll receive colour-coded displays on the touchscreen showing your

E-Fence allows operators to restrict machine movement beyond custom boundaries.

E-Fence prevents the excavtor from encroaching on the set boundaries – ideal for work in tight areas.

bucket position relative to the design. As you get close, the indicator on the screen turns from yellow to green as you reach the desired position.”

Rohan says this easy-to-understand colourcoded diagram ensures operators know when the bucket is at the correct angle, offset, and position to create an accurate trench.

“This reduces the chance of accidently over or under digging, potentially saving hours of correction work at a later time or the added cost of over-filling with expensive materials like concrete,” he says. “This also reduces the need for additional workers on the ground outside the machine to check levels, distances, and depth.”

Assist

An additional feature made possible by both E-fence and Indicate is Assist, which incorporates both Swing Assist and Bucket Assist features.

Bucket Assist, activated via the advanced monitor, automatically maintains the last known bucket position, and keeps the angle consistent relative to the machine.

Swing Assist, also activated in the advanced monitor, stops the excavator’s swing function at a pre-set point, allowing operators to quickly and accurately return to trench, as well as set a consistent dump target.

“The main difference between Swing and Bucket Assist and the E-Fence mode is that E-Fence will restrict any movement outside the set parameters, whereas Swing and Bucket Assist allow the operator to override the set

Swing Assist allows the operator to return to a precise point over a trench.

The Indicate feature lets the operator know where the excavator bucket is relative to the target grade.

E-Fence and Indicate can be factory or Cat dealer fitted to compatible machines.

Bucket Assist maintains the last known bucket position relative to the machine.

parameters with an additional joystick control

This lets the operator use Swing and Bucket Assist to dig with pin-point precision, but also allows more freedom and flexibility to move past set points as required.

Rohan expects Cat Ease of Use technology to have as much of an impact in the Mini Excavator range as it has for the larger Cat Next

With a range of overlapping benefits, the Ease of Use suite offered by Caterpillar will enable operators of all experience levels to operate more efficiently and consistently.

Ease of Use technology can be included on machines straight out of the factory. Existing machines, if Ease of Use ready (based on build date), can have the suite retrofitted.

Five sensors drive positional data to the machine control unit.

Rohan says the technology will simplify operation, improve accuracy, and enhance overall productivity.

Circle of trust

City Circle Group (CCG) focuses on fast-moving, large format projects across the greater Melbourne area. The EEM team recently had the opportunity visit CCG to learn more about the business. As an added bonus, the team’s new Volvo

was on-site ripping into some serious concrete removal.

Towering over the old Holden manufacturing site in Port Melbourne, City Circle Group’s (CCG) 75-tonne Volvo excavator is a sight to behold in the morning light, as it uses its brute 325kN breakout force and 11.5m reach to break up and lift out an old slab.

A family-owned and run construction and demolition business, CCG has serviced the greater Melbourne area since 1981. This powerful excavator is the latest addition to their fleet of Volvo machines.

Construction Manager Jesse Campbell has been with CCG for six years. He was originally working as a builder in general construction, when the opportunity to join CCG came along. Then – as it is today – the business was heavily involved in government civil infrastructure projects, something Jesse was extremely interested in. Neither Jesse nor CCG have looked back since.

Jesse says CCG’s fleet of Volvo excavators are all in the 30-tonne and above range.

“Our Volvo excavator fleet is structured to complement our work, which is focused on large format projects, which generate products we can repurpose or recycle, such as steel and concrete,” he says.

EC750DL excavator

CCG’s new Volvo EC750DL 75-tonne excavator.

(L-R) CCG Construction Manager Jesse Campbell, CCG Commercial Manager Tim Skidmore, and CJD Equipment’s Matt Kozole.

“I personally enjoy rail occupations and bridge demos. These fast-paced projects, require problem solving and technical know-how to produce timely, successful, and safe results for our clients. And I enjoy seeing the hard work and exceptional capabilities of our crew.

“Our Volvo fleet, and support from CJD Equipment, has had a lot to do with these results due to their reliability and durability.”

Family tried and tested

For Commercial Manager Tim Skidmore, it’s a family affair at CCG, which has been owned and operated by the Skidmore family since the beginning, and Tim has had the opportunity to watch the growth of the business ramp up over the years.

“When Director Peter Skidmore first started the business doing rubbish removal, he would have to borrow his brothers’ truck,” he says. “The first machine Peter bought for himself was a skid steer with a backhoe attachment.”

In recent years, the company has purchased five, 30-tonne plus Volvo excavators from

The Volvo EC750DL boasts 11.5m of reach.

The Volvo EC750DL features 326kN of breakout power.

CJD Equipment. CCG has come a long way since then.

The Volvo fleet

According to Tim, the continual advancement of excavator attachments is an important part of the construction industry to watch.

“Anyone in our space will tell you there’s tools that we probably couldn’t live without, that weren’t around just 5 or 10 years ago,” he says. “For us, we are always going to invest in equipment and attachments that allow us to run large gear to help us to pull buildings down quicker and remove concrete more efficiently.”

With requirements for attachments such as large hammers and shears, Volvo excavators have proven to be the perfect choice for ripping, tearing, and biting through the concrete and steel demolition jobs that make up a big part of the CCG team’s workload.

Jesse says these machines have been ticking all the boxes for the business.

“Our management loves the Volvos because they are so reliable, durable, and fuel-efficient, while our operators love the size and comfort of the cab,” he says. “It’s a great space to work in – from the low noise and vibration, down to the precision controls and impressive features.

“And of course, the substantial power and breakout means our guys can achieve

CCG is undertaking works at the old Holden manufacturing site in Port Melbourne.

CCG’s operators are impressed with the Volvo machines.

Jesse says Volvo excavators are reliable, durable, and fuel-efficient.

Tim says the CCG team likes to keep up-to-date with its machines by replacing them on a periodic cycle.

CJD Equipment provides extensive product and after-sales support across the country for Volvo Construction Equipment.

work in.”

A trusted relationship

Matthew Kozole is the Regional Sales Manager in Melbourne’s Northeast & Metro for CJD Equipment, and recently sold CCG its 75-tonne Volvo EC750DL crawler excavator.

Tim says CCG has had a very successful and long-standing relationship with CJD Equipment, and Matt has made a positive impression with the CCG team.

“Matt has been very helpful and thorough with our latest purchase,” Tim says. “We couldn’t be happier with our experience with him and CJD Equipment – as well as this huge EC750D machine.

“A lot of businesses out there are looking for big growth, but we are focusing more on maintaining our market share. Working with Matt and the CJD Equipment team to replace machinery on a periodic cycle will both help

Matt says there are several features to the EC750DL excavator that really stood out for the CCG team.

“The fuel efficiency and the sheer power of this machine is something that really appealed to Tim,” Matt says. “Given the size of attachments they run, CCG needed significant hydraulic pressure and grunt to run them. It was all about completing jobs ahead of schedule and keeping maintenance costs down – and these are all the strengths of the EC750D.”

Watching the EC750DL break up large, thick sections of concrete with ease, it’s clear to see why CCG was impressed with the excavator.

Knowing that backup support from the CJD Equipment team is always just a phone call away, CCG can enjoy the freedom and peace-of-mind to focus on what they do best: high-quality, fast turnaround, large format demolition projects.

Jesse says the EC750DL’s substantial power and breakout enables the CCG team to achieve high volumes of work each day.

The 75-tonne Volvo EC750DL excavator is the latest addition to CCG’s fleet.

As the dust settled on the epic paint job of the CG Civil Kobelco, it was hard to imagine a better-looking machine. Then, after several hours experiencing the power and work capacity of the SK380XDLC-10, it became clear the Kobelco brand had evolved yet again.

Rob Kennedy has been the Operations Manager and owner of CG Civil for the past 15 years or so. Originally a concreter, Rob has always had machines. In 2019 he steered away from concreting and pushed the machines harder.

“Today we run a number of Kobelco excavators ranging from five-tonne to 40-tonne,” said Rob, “along with a large variety of attachments, hammers and GPS.”

It’s straight away obvious Rob’s a nononsense, salt-of-the-Earth-type bloke who’s not afraid to make his machines stand out from the crowd.

Smooth operator

Rob’s machines all feature a very cool Australian-flag paint job across the cab and boom, with the flag looking like its tearing through the robust Kobelco steel.

Rather than running with numbers like most to identify his numerous Kobelcos, Rob has named his machines after his kids and family, a great way for fuel trucks and support staff to identify and find the right excavator.

“Seeing my machines out on site with my

Rob Kennedy has been the Operations Manager and owner of CG Civil for the past 15 years or so.

Rob’s Kobelco machines all feature an Australian flag paint job across the cab and boom.

CG Civil specialises in civil works, earthworks, and commercial works.

kids’ and family’s names and the Australian flag flying is something I’m proud of,” grinned Rob. “I’m a proud Australian, and I’m proud of my Kobelco machines, which I’ll happily stand beside and back 100 per cent, every day of the

“I can confidently say they’ve proved themselves to me many times over, and I know I can rely on them, along with my staff, to be the backbone of a successful business. The productivity and fuel efficiency of the Kobelcos, along with the operator comfort, is second to none. I’ve compared all the specs and stats of all the other machines, and nothing comes

“We specialise in civil works, earthworks, and commercial works with a talented bunch of operators to bring out the best from our

Impressive fleet of 12

Rob continued, “Today we currently own 12 Kobelco machines and we’re growing. In fact, I’ve just purchased another one today and will be ordering another three or four in the very near future. I purchase my Kobelcos through Melbourne Tractors, and my rep at Melbourne Tractors is Simon Gillespie, a great bloke, and

“The productivity and fuel efficiency of the Kobelcos, along with the operator comfort, is second to none.”

Melbourne Tractors General Manager Peter Keley (right).

Operator comfort is unmatched.

The new SK380XDLC-10 weighs in at 37,700kg, making it the heaviest excavator in its class.

Rather than running with numbers to identify his numerous Kobelcos, Rob has named his machines after his kids and family.

Rob’s goal is to build his business up to 20 Kobelco machines and to start introducing 50-tonne machines to his fleet.

the dealership has always accommodated us quickly and professionally in the repair and maintenance of our machines. I see Melbourne Tractors’ role in our relationship is to keep me up to date with new technologies and machine features that can benefit my business, as well as keeping the Kobelco machinery in A1 condition.

“I can’t fault Melbourne Tractors with its efforts and ability to deliver so far. Needless to say, we are happy with our experience and quality of service.”

Latest and greatest

Rob’s latest purchase is the new SK380XDLC-10, which weighs in at 37,700kg, making it the heaviest excavator in its class.

With innovative technology, substantial build quality and an extended major component warranty of four years/6000 hours, it’s no

wonder Rob has made such a long-term commitment to the Kobelco brand.

“Kobelco’s GEOSCAN telematics system is something we use each day and is provided free of charge,” he explained. “We love the simplicity, usability, and reliability of this tech. It allows us to keep up to date with the maintenance, service, and of course, our fuel. The fast-digging cycle times, along with the impressive breakout force of 244kN and best-in-class tractive force of 331kN, all single out this machine as the benchmark for this class. It’s been beefed up in numerous areas to produce a robust and hardworking machine capable of extremely impressive workloads.”

Like many business owners, Rob put down his biggest day-to-day challenge as finding highly motivated and great operators with the same passion for the industry as himself.

That’s why staff retention and looking after his operators is very high on his priority list.

Rob’s goal is to build his business up to 20 Kobelco machines and to start introducing 50-tonne machines to his fleet.

“By continuing to build my team of operators and introducing even bigger Kobelco machines we will be able to complete works and projects faster, while also taking on larger projects. Cheaper interest rates and good operators will help us achieve this.

“Also, while we continue our relationship with Melbourne Tractors and Kobelco, and the A1 service we receive from both to keep our machines in A1 condition, the world is our oyster!”

With works continuing at a solid pace, Melbourne is going to keep most operators very busy for many years to come.

Innovative technology, substantial build quality and an extended major component warranty of four years/6000 hours.

In for the long haul

Sydney’s Haines Bros Earthmoving is optimising performance and value for money with LiuGong’s wheel loaders and rollers.

For those in the know, the LiuGong range of machinery has been selling like hot cakes in Western and South Australia for many years. But the East Coast seems to have been a little slower on the uptake.

But with the likes of Sydney-based Haines Bros Earthmoving embracing LiuGong with open arms, the wave of businesses stepping over to the brand is well and truly on the rise.

Haines Bros Earthmoving specialises in civil construction and plant hire services. Backed by more than two decades’ experience, the business has developed the skills, experience, and hands-on knowledge to tackle jobs of any size with confidence.

Offering a wide range of services including earthworks, roadworks, stormwater works, and site remediation, Haines Bros has built a reputation as a highly regarded construction partner with a keen eye for safety and the environment.

With experience owning and operating machinery from a number of other brands over the years, the fact that Haines Bros has chosen LiuGong for its wheel loaders and rollers is a great indication of the team’s success and satisfaction with the brand.

Haines Bros Earthmoving is flying the LiuGong flag with its brand new 856H Wheel Loader

PMG’s Liam King (left) and Jason Lyall, from the Australian distributor of LiuGong equipment.

Haines Bros embraces LiuGong with open arms

Today, Haines Bros owns four LiuGong machines, including the 848H Wheel Loader, 856H Wheel Loader, 6613E Roller, and 6615E Roller, all of which have been purchased from Australian dealer Pacific Machinery Group (PMG).

Haines Bros’ latest acquisition, a new LiuGong 856H Wheel Loader, has recently been put to work on a demanding construction site at Western Sydney International Airport.

According to PMG General Manager Liam King, this purchase is just the latest in what has been a long-standing relationship between PMG and Haines Bros.

“Our company has had a 26-year partnership with Director Mark Haines,” Liam says. “So, when it came time for Haines to seriously look at purchasing its first LiuGong machine, the trust was already there.

“And as the experience goes with so many customers, once they get in the machine and discover first-hand what they are capable of – the power, efficiency, and comfort – the machines pretty much sell themselves.

“There is a very good reason our machines are so competitive in the Southern and Western states. They are extremely reliable, durable, and great value.”

Liam says there are several key features that often stand out to operators after they’ve spent time in LiuGong machines.

“The PMG backup and investment in parts is a big one,” he says. “And we don’t just sell machines into metro areas – we offer and support the brand in regional areas too.

“The machines come with LED lights, reverse cameras, ROPS/FOPS compliant cabins – and the new generation touchscreen offered in the 915FCR 14T zero-swing excavator is like something out of a Tesla!

Liam says LiuGong machines can offer cost savings to businesses around Australia.

“You get a lower hourly cost and savings on purchase price, combined with the same backup as the big players in earthmoving,”

he says. “You just can’t underestimate the importance of these types of savings when coupled with a high quality and reliable machine like the LiuGong.

“It’s very easy to navigate a dealer relationship where any member of a customer’s staff can call any of our branches to receive backup and support. This type of support is integral to our brand. We treat our customers as part of the PMG family. A lot of companies will tell you

Haines Bros has put the LiuGong 856H to work on site at Western Sydney International Airport.

The 856H is powered by a 6-cylinder Tier 3 Cummins engine.

similar things – but when push comes to shove, we back up our words with action.”

Liam says the LiuGong brand is in Australia for the long haul, and its utmost priority is supporting customers and building long-term relationships with end users. He says LiuGong is setting a new standard when it comes to reliable and great value heavy machinery – equipment that is more than capable of excelling in tough Australian conditions.

Construction’s best kept secret

The 17-tonne 856H Wheel Loader is powered by a Cummins Tier 3 turbocharged and air-toair intercooled, 6-cylinder engine, producing 162kW (220 hp / 217 PS) at 2200rpm, making it an excellent option for a wide range of tasks.

It also features a hydraulic system with a dual-pump confluence (with steering always prioritised to reduce energy loss); a fully sealed and pressurised ROPS/FOPS certified cab ensuring reduced dust and noise, and operator

Jason Lyall says LiuGong wheel loaders present the best value for money on the market.

The 856H features a fully sealed and pressurised ROPS/FOPS certified cab.

The 856H is just the latest in Haines Bros’ LiuGong fleet.

he says. “People seem to have their own preconceived ideas about different brands, but once they get to sit in and operate a LiuGong, they are blown away – they just love it.

“Then they start to join the dots and soon realise that the LiuGong wheel loaders, just like the excavators and rollers, are the best value machines in the market.

“The 856H Wheel Loader also features AutoGrease, Quick Hitch, a reversible fan, a heated seat, and a very well laid-out and comfortable cab. These inclusions all contribute to the great performance and value of the machine – and of course, a great overall experience.”

The 856H features a hydraulic system with dual-pump confluence.

PMG’s Liam King says LiuGong machinery is in Australia for the long haul.

Full Wacker

The EZ17e from Wacker Neuson is a fully electric 1.7-tonne excavator designed to deliver the same power and breakout to its diesel equivalent, without the emissions.

It is also the first fully electric zero tail mini excavator without rear projection, making it the perfect choice for contractors needing to operate in either noise or emission sensitive areas such as tunnels, indoor areas, hospital, schools, or childcare centres.

Its powerful lithium-ion battery delivers six-hour continuous run time and overnight charging capabilities. For longer periods of continuous use, the excavator can be used in stationary operation while connected to a power source.

The EZ17e features 4.5km/h ground speed, 20.5kN bucket breakout, and 4480 psi operating hydraulic pressure. But the biggest standout feature is its smooth and quiet operation, designed to reduce operator fatigue at the end of the day.

To test this and many other ins and outs of the Wacker Neuson EZ17e, EEM enlisted the help of Steve Ryan from Ryan’s Earthmoving. Steve’s business is based in the regional town of St. Andrews, just north-east of Melbourne, where he regularly works for builders, concreters and property owners, as well as taking on his own landscaping jobs.

Wacker Neuson’s EZ17e is the first fully electric zero tail mini excavator without rear projection.

Wacker Neuson’s EZ17e fully electric mini excavator delivers power and productivity without the fumes. EEM teams up with Steve from Ryan’s Earthmoving to learn more.

(L-R) Greg Monk from Wacker Neuson, Jamie Gray from EEM, Steve Ryan from Ryan’s Earthmoving.

As an owner of the excavator’s diesel equivalent, Steve was the perfect operator to test the EZ17e.

“When you first turn the machine on and start working, the lack of any noise is a little strange at first, as our brains are so used to the noise of an excavator working,” Steve says. “But within five or 10 minutes you get used to the quiet, and then realise you can actually communicate with other workers with ease, without having to worry about upsetting property owners or anyone else close to the work area.

“From a safety perspective alone, that is awesome. You can hear everything going on around you, instead of being in your own little bubble.”

Steve says it’s not uncommon to hear that the movement of electric excavators can be quite “jerky” compared to diesel machines – but the EZ17e doesn’t suffer from this issue in the slightest.

“From an operator’s perspective this machine seems to have the exact amount of breakout and power as my diesel equivalent machine – perhaps even just a little bit more,” he says.

The EZ17e is designed to deliver the same power and breakout as its diesel counterpart.

The EZ17e features 20.5kN bucket breakout, and 4480 psi operating hydraulic pressure.

Full electric operation (6-hour continuous runtime)

Powerful Lithium-ion battery (23.4kWh)

Reduced maintenance and service costs

Intuitive operating concept

240-bar operating pressure and max flow rate of 39lpm allows the EZ17e to drive a range of attachments.

Running electric machines reduces maintenance and service costs.

The 1.7-tonne mini excavator can be easily transported between jobs.

An intuitive operating concept makes operating the EZ17e easy.

The EZ17e can operate in stationary mode connected to mains power for extended work hours.

The lithium-ion battery provides a six-hour continuous runtime.

“In our testing over the course of the day today, we have dug half a dozen or so decent sized holes for trees which are about to be planted, cleared some ground for a series of steps that needed to be cut in, and also moved some earth from a stockpile.

“All of which are pretty common tasks for an excavator of this size, and I’m very happy to say that the EZ17e has taken it all in its stride.”

Steve says that despite operating in ECO mode for most of the day, he found there was enough breakout and power to effortlessly work through his to-do list .

“The EZ17e hasn’t missed a beat,” he says. “When digging the holes for the trees, we needed to dig an area the size of roughly a large wheely bin and the ground was very hard and compacted throughout the entire area. Despite this, the bucket seemed to rip through the hard ground without any problems at all – and without burning up a pile of battery life.”

Compact power

Other features of the EZ17e include hydraulic plumbing and quick hitch, enabling operators to quickly switch between attachments such as augers, small hammers, grabs, and buckets. The 240-bar operating pressure and max flow rate of 39lpm ensures support for more pressure hungry hydraulic attachments.

As a 1.7-tonne machine, the EZ17e can be easily towed on a trailer behind a 4WD, and the FOPs roll bar can be quickly and easily

removed for transit or storage by undoing four bolts.

Reduced maintenance and service costs is another key feature of the EZ17e, with the need for changing engine oil and filters completely eliminated.

An intuitive operating concept enables simple control of the excavator using the joystick, jog

dial and keypad. This also makes accessing attachment and oil level settings quick and easy.

The EZ17e’s 100 per cent zero tail design with no overhang allows for operation in tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for working alongside walls, roadways, and other obstructions.

Steve says the EZ17e has no trouble digging through hard, compacted earth.

Steve says the EZ17e’s quiet operation allows for easier communication on the worksite.

Working smarter and harder

JK Williams harnesses high-performance Liebherr machines to get the job done.

Family business JK Williams (JKW) draws on a rich history in Penrith and the broader Western Sydney area, with the distinctive blue and gold logo that adorns its fleet of civil construction and transport equipment a familiar sight against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains. It’s a logo that is instantly recognisable to many who live and work in the area, representative of JKW’s firm focus on old-fashioned hard work and commitment to quality.

Glenn Hartog, JKW Construction Manager,

Glenn himself draws on close to three decades of experience in the construction sector, having started out as a 15-year-old working during his summer holidays. He has been with JKW for over 23 years, and has held the position of Construction Manager for the past 11 years.

He noted that JKW’s history is one of perseverance and tenacity, with the tragic passing of its founder in 1979 seeing others step in to take the reins.

business to date. A measure of JKW’s influence in the local sector is that we have completed over 80 per cent of residential subdivisions in the Penrith area.”

JKW’s commitment to its people and innovation underpins strong service offering

JKW has grown over the years to employ in excess of 200 people, and provides services across a number of key areas, including civil construction, infrastructure, residential and industrial subdivisions, bulk earthworks, property development, and slipform concrete pavements and roads works.

Complementing its broad range of capabilities, it maintains a strong focus on sustainability across its various operations, ensuring only best practice methods are used as part of efforts to control and minimise its footprint.

Glenn explained that first and foremost JKW’s commitment has been to its people, with its team “always onboard with us to navigate the current challenges and demands of today’s environment”.

“Investing in our fleet has always been important to us,” he added. “Every machine purchased is thoroughly researched and considered to ensure it will continue to meet our needs for many years to come.

“We are also always exploring new technology options from all aspects to ensure we can adapt and grow for the future. This includes sustainability impacts, and improved machine and operator performance.”

It is a broader approach that has seen JKW remain at the forefront of innovation in the industry, and which has been a substantial factor in its capacity to form long-term relationships with its client base.

According to Liebherr, its Generation 8 crawler excavators are “a look into the future”.

JKW runs several Liebherr machines, including two R 924 G8 excavators.

We always ensure we fully understand the uniqueness of each project and often collaborate with the client and other project stakeholders to ensure the construction methodologies and design processes will lead to delivering a project to the highest standards.

This includes working directly for Transport for NSW (TfNSW), along with numerous Tier 1 contractors, on significant TfNSW infrastructure works, including the Northern Road Upgrade –Penrith, M4-M5 Link Tunnels, WestConnex, and NorthConnex.

JKW has also been delivering the Redbank project in North Richmond for over 10 years, which has included residential subdivision, road construction, and sustainability and Aboriginal heritage projects.

Other recent projects include delivering the surface and civil alignment works for the new Western Sydney Aerotropolis as a member of the CPB Contractors-United Infrastructure JV, The Gables residential subdivision in Sydney’s north west, the Kelso to Raglan Great Western Highway upgrade, and the New England Solar Farm in Armidale.

Liebherr machines provide reliability and fuel efficiency benefits

JKW runs a number of Liebherr machines –including an R 920 Compact G6 excavator, two R 924 G8 excavators, an R 938 G8 excavator, and a PR 736 G8 dozer – with Glenn highlighting machine reliability and fuel efficiency as being key considerations for the business.

Glenn told EEM that Liebherr’s level of product support has been exceptional, with a dedicated Liebherr specialist spending time with JKW, including going through a pre-start and operational safety video.

“Liebherr has been committed to providing us

information and support, from the first point of contact through to the on-ground training and service,” he said.

“With regard to fuel efficiency, this ensures we can deliver on our sustainability targets, reducing our footprint and operating costs.

Liebherr machines also have a longer service interval, which has supported our regional projects.”

As it stands, the excavators and dozer have been racking up plenty of operating hours, cumulatively totalling around 250 hours per week, and JKW’s operators have described the machines as being “comfortable and intuitive to learn”.

Moving forward, JKW’s Liebherr range is poised to accumulate plenty more hours in

2023 and beyond, with Glenn stating the business has a busy year ahead.

“Our workload and opportunities for 2023 are exciting for both our offices in NSW and Queensland,” he said.

Liebherr R 924 G8 excavator specs

Liebherr describes its Generation 8 crawler excavators as “a look into the future”, with the range sporting higher engine power, along with a heavier counterweight for higher bucket capacities, and designed for econimical fuel consumption.

In addition to this, other Generation 8 innovations include a boom concept with modified head for better boom forces and an optimised load curve, which is also designed to deliver fuel savings.

The R 924 G8 weighs in at an operating weight of 24.55t and runs a 129kW Tier 4 Final engine, featuring automatic idle-stop, and advanced features for:

Safety – a ROPS-certified cab structure, panoramic visibility with no obstructions, a camera on the rear and the right side equipment, liftable console for easy and safe access to the cab, and emergency exit via the rear cab window

• Equipment – large choice of types and sizes of equipment, with safety check valves for hoist and stick cylinders, and guaranteed maintenance thanks to an optional automatic centralised lubrication system

• Undercarriage – a robust, reliable X-frame undercarriage, designed to be easy to secure with integrated eyelets, and enabling easy maintenance, with maintenance-free travel gear and track rollers with lifetime lubrication, and extra storage as an option

• Maintenance – service points accessible from ground level, with lateral access to the uppercarriage and large maintenance platform, while the engine oil, hydraulic oil, fuel and urea (diesel exhaust fluid) levels are visible on the display.

For more information, please visit: www.liebherr.com.au or call (02) 9852 1800

JKW’s Liebherr R 920 Compact G6 excavator.

A Liebherr PR 736 G8 dozer bearing JKW’s distinctive blue and gold logo.

Celebrating 50 years of reliability

Established in 1972, Shandong Lingong Equipment (SDLG) recently celebrated its 50year anniversary, which included the roll-out of the 500,000th SDLG Wheel Loader off the production line, and the opening of the SDLG Museum to commemorate decades of history. SDLG’s incredible 50-year event was also broadcasted to a live worldwide audience of more than 7.6 million.

As a member of the Volvo Group, the development and production of all SDLG machinery integrates the design influence and high-quality standards of Volvo Construction Equipment, with product expertise and aftersales support in Australia from CJD Equipment.

“SDLG machines are simple to operate and maintain, and are versatile, straight-forward machines,” says Andrew Egan, National Product Manager for SDLG at CJD Equipment.

“The general feedback is that they are very reliable and most importantly, SDLG is fully supported and maintained through CJD’s extensive national network of branches and dealers.”

CJD Equipment also offers a diverse range of products from iconic brands including Volvo CE, and boasts an extensive network of branches and dealers across the country.

Andrew says the SDLG and CJD Equipment partnership gives customers a reputable product with proper after-sales support, with 24/7 sales, parts and service support stretching across the nation – from capital cities to regional country towns and mining centres.

“It’s one thing to buy a machine that’s costeffective, but all machines have the potential for unscheduled downtime. It’s a matter of how quickly you can get back on the road again and how much you can rely on the person that sold you the machine,” he says.

Andrew says SDLG machines have all the features and functionality you need for your dayto-day work, without the complex electronics found in other machines, and are deemed extremely reliable with their low maintenance, and ease and accessibility for service.

“They have all the safety features in the cab, and an ergonomic layout which makes it easier for the operator to use and are very versatile thanks to the factory fitted quick coupler and third function hydraulics which can accommodate a variety of different attachments,” explains Andrew. “Productivity is also enhanced with SDLG’s high torque, fuel efficient engines.”

Whilst SDLG manufactures a wide range of

new wheel loader models,” he says. “Building on the success of an already outstanding range, the new H-Series will feature enhanced durability and superior comfort, with exceptional fuel efficiency and productivity.”

SDLG wheel loaders are available in five models, ranging from LG918 with 77hp through to the 217hp L958F. The models will include load handling capabilities from 1.8 to 5.2 tonnes, with dump heights from 2.5m to 3.1m, and come standard with a Volvo compatible quick hitch, third function hydraulics, and are also fitted with fully certified ROPS-FOPS rollover protection. All wheel loader models also include an airconditioned cab with a focus on practicality and operator comfort, and a wraparound pillarless front and rear windscreen for clear visibility.

Later this year, CJD Equipment is looking to bring in SDLG’s Mini Excavator range. All models come standard with zero or reduced tail swing, rubber tracks and load-sensing pilot hydraulic operated controls.

“We are looking at models ranging from 1.8 to 6-tonne, all newly designed by SDLG with comfort and reliability at the core,” Andrew says. “These machines will be a great option for the construction industry offering optimal power and stability, without compromising on quality. Watch this space!”

For more information on the SDLG range, find your local CJD Equipment branch at www.cjd.com.au or call 1300 139 804.

SDLG has become one of China’s fastest growing manufacturers of construction equipment and has developed an internationally renowned brand which now spans more than 130 countries.

SDLG recently celebrated the production of its 500,000th wheel loader.

Andrew says SDLG machines have all the features and functionality needed for your day-to-day work.

The ergonomic layout of SDLG’s cabs ensures operator ease of use.

Reliable Performance

YOU CAN COUNT ON

THE ULTIMATE ALL-ROUNDER

As a member of the Volvo Group, SDLG machines are built with the quality standards of Volvo, with product expertise and aftersales support in Australia from CJD Equipment.

SDLG wheel loaders come with all the features and functionality needed for your day-to-day work, and the high-performance and versatility you expect from a premium machine.

The right boot for the right foot

Blundstone continues to lead the way in safety footwear with their RotoFlex range. This worldleading biomechanical design is a result of years of research into the needs of workers in trades, building and construction industries. The range includes two styles designed specifically to provide a genuine women’s fit — the wheat #8860 and stone #8863.

With March’s Women in Construction Week just behind us, there’s no better boot to help keep the celebrations going.

Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) reports that three per cent of the trade workforce is female. EWIT is one of many organisations working to support women to thrive in these industries and to encourage growth in representation. Furthermore, the New South Wales Department of Education reported in its Women in Trades Strategy for 2021 to 2024 that women face several challenges when entering a trade.

These barriers include cultural attitudes and perceptions about what roles are ‘suitable’ for women. The team at Blundstone is constantly researching, developing, and designing to make sure that finding appropriate women’s specific safety footwear is not one of these challenges.

The #8860 and #8863 from the RotoFlex range increases Blundstone’s women’s specific offering to seven styles — including boots suitable for a range of heavy and light industries.

“Blundstone is proud to be offering two more styles to increase our women’s offering in the safety market,” says Kylie White, Australian Sales Manager, Blundstone Australia. “The

#8860 and #8863 are specially designed to conform to a woman’s foot, providing all the latest protection and comfort features found across our extensive unisex work and safety range.”

The RotoFlex #8860 and #8863 styles are an Australian first in providing composite safety in heavy industrial women’s safety footwear. Along with the Fortalite® compression-resistant

composite toe cap, there are three key technical features that work together to deliver RotoFlex’s premium comfort and safety — the GripTek® Heavy Duty TPU outsole, AirCell footbed, and SoftCell® overarching comfort system. Supporting the comfort technology is Infinergy® E-TPU, a super elastic energy foam from BASF that works to reduce impact and fatigue. Componentry aside, the key technical features that differentiate the women’s specific RotoFlex styles are the last the boots are moulded on, and the AirCell footbed that has been shaped and constructed with a softer PU to provide optimal support for a woman’s build. Research indicates that women’s feet aren’t just smaller versions of men’s, but a different shape entirely with distinct functional contrasts — hence the need to offer women’s specific support. Blundstone’s design team has considered several variables for women’s specific styles — arch heights, range of motion, and everything in between to ensure a better performing safety boot fit for hardworking women.

Blundstone believes that women should be entitled to all the same benefits afforded to men in the construction and trade industries. In releasing the two RotoFlex women’s specific styles, the brand demonstrates its commitment to the ever-growing female workforce. The women’s specific RotoFlex are available at participating retailers now. Put Blundstone’s innovation to work.

To learn more about RotoFlex, visit blundstone.com.au/rotoflex

Blundstone’s RotoFlex® #8860 and #8863 styles offer the right support, safety, and comfort, specially tailored for women’s feet.

The RotoFlex #8860 and #8863 styles are an Australian first in providing composite safety in heavy industrial women’s safety footwear.

Blundstone offers women’s specific boots for a range of heavy and light industries.

DESIGNED FOR HARDWORKING WOMEN

The RotoFlex range by Blundstone includes two women’s specific styles, the #8860 and #8863. These safety boots offer lightweight protection in a genuine women’s fit.

PUT OUR INNOVATION TO WORK

AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS NOW

Rigged for productivity

Since landing in the local market last year, UHI Machinery’s XR80E and XR240E rotary drilling rigs have been making a strong impression, enabling operators to power on through courtesy of a range of innovative features. The machines are manufactured by multinational heavy machinery company XCMG, and have been decked out to streamline operations, providing a range of productivity benefits.

Small machinery specialist UHI supports the XR80E and XR240E with an evolving range of drilling tools, paving the way for additional versatility, allowing operators to tailor their

approach in line with the requirements of individual projects.

By partnering with top-five global construction machinery company XCMG, UHI continues to bring quality machines to the local market, with XCMG having built a strong reputation for producing robust, reliable, and efficient machines.

The XR80E and XR240E slot neatly into UHI’s broader portfolio of wheel loaders, skid steer loaders, and mini loaders, with UHI’s range comprising a wide selection of machines with the ability to thrive in tough conditions.

Versatile XCMG rigs provide a range of options

The new XCMG rigs are capable of carrying out both driven and drilled pile foundation projects, enabling Kelly drilling, continuous flight auger, full displacement piles, single column mixing, cased continuous flight auger, and low headroom applications.

XR80E

The XR80E comprises a base unit on crawlers and a drilling application module, and is widely used in the hole-forming operations of cast-

UHI Machinery’s XCMG rotary drilling rigs are making an impact in the local market.

The 30t XR80E is widely used in the hole-forming operations of cast-in-place concrete piles.

UHI supports its XCMG rotary drilling rigs with an evolving range of drilling tools.

in-place concrete piles in the construction of roads, railways, bridges, ports, and high-rise buildings.

It weighs in at 30t (excluding drilling tools), with its features including:

• An electronically controlled and turbocharged 115kW Cummins engine, which meets North American Tier 4 Final and Euro Stage V emission standards

A hydraulic telescopic crawler chassis and large diameter slewing bearing provides strong stability and allows for easy transportation

• The hydraulic pressure system adopts limited power control and negative flow control, delivering energy efficiency

• A standard centralised lubrication system makes maintenance more convenient

• Standard configuration of the crowd cylinder is complemented by optional multifunctional configuration (including crowd winch, continuous flight auger and rotary spray)

• Can be transported with the Kelly bar.

XR240E

The multifunctional XR240E is widely used in the hole-forming operations of cast-in-place concrete piles in the construction of roads, railways, bridges, and large venues (with it especially suitable for industrial and civil buildings).

It weighs in at 84t (excluding drilling tools), with its features including:

• A 252kW Cummins engine, which meets North American Tier 4 Final and Euro Stage V emission standards

• Provides quick functions switching, such as crowd cylinder, crowd winch, continuous flight auger, and dual rotary drive, meeting different construction needs

• The rotary drive and main winch are designed to deliver efficient performance, with the main and auxiliary winches both utilising single-rope technology

• The double jib parallelogram luffing mechanism has a large support angle, making operations more stable

• An intelligent control system enables

display of mast perpendicularity, automatic rotation, spin-off, lifting and concrete pouring, and pile type display

• The hydraulic system adopts negative flow

and good handling performance

• A high-power, temperature-controlled independent hydraulic oil radiator can meet the construction requirements of hightemperature areas, with it adjusting the fan speed according to temperature changes, saving energy.

UHI supports products with comprehensive customer service

UHI supports its high-quality product portfolio with a comprehensive customer service offering, providing customers informed and responsive assistance at each stage of the sales process, from sales through to after-sales.

UHI additionally offers a number of finance options, designed to help customers get their equipment up and running in the field in short time, with it very much aware of the importance of timing in tackling different projects.

With a network that continues to evolve, spanning branches in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, and Townsville, UHI provides both in-store pick-up and nationwide delivery.

Customised rotary drills are delivered to the customer within three months.

The XR80E is powered by an electronically controlled, turbocharged 115kW Cummins engine.

The 84t XR240E is especially suitable for industrial and civil buildings.

Revolutionising parts sourcing and remarketing

Supplying a broad range of OEM and aftermarket parts, new market entrant Earthmoving Supplies provides customers with solutions, consolidated in one operating environment.

Launched this month, Earthmoving Supplies is a new Australian-owned and operated business that addresses a persistent problem within the industry – offering customers access to an extensive range of parts via a digital platform with global reach.

The company’s offering is a major boon for mixed fleet operators looking for a variety of parts across multiple makes and models. Earthmoving Supplies provides unprecedented access to new unused parts for all OEM and aftermarket brands, and all makes and models in a single location.

This new approach gives customers a genuine alternative to the traditional purchasing process by eliminating the tedious task of approaching multiple suppliers and OEMs individually.

Using an online platform that aggregates information and supply channels, Earthmoving Supplies provides customers with a single, safe source to fulfil their entire parts list. The online marketplace provides a range of tools, making it easy for customers to upload their requirements in bulk, cross-reference data, and pull parts from common rebuild scopes. Using the power of analytics, the company can match demand with supply and supply with demand for parts remarketing value creation. The website’s easyto-use interface drives a positive experience and alleviates customer stress.

In addition to Earthmoving Supplies’ extensive parts catalogue, it can assist companies remarketing excess and surplus parts under consignment, along with inventory and warehouse management services.

“Because we understand that customers are often time poor, we have created a platform to improve the delivery of that service experience

“For sellers, Earthmoving Supplies’ digital platform provides an eco-system that proactively addresses for OEMs, dealers and customers the ongoing challenge of new, unused parts that are excess to demand and allows sellers to remarket those on a local, regional, and global basis.”

The company is the brainchild of a handful of people who have worked in the machinery and components industry for numerous years. Having identified a significant global problem, they saw it as the perfect opportunity to combine their technical, operational, and technological expertise to build a solution.

The founding leadership team comprises a group of industry experts with a breadth of local and international experience across mining and equipment. With a significant background in heavy machinery, Phil Pollock, Director

Aftermarket Business, and Asia Pacific General Manager for Construction and Infrastructure.

Ben Hailes, Director of Sales, has held several senior management roles in Australia’s leading investment managers, including Macquarie Bank, Brookfield Multiplex, and BT Financial Group. Introduced to heavy earthmoving and mining industries in 2012, Ben was engaged as the General Manager of Orionstone (now Emeco), then one of Australia’s largest heavy earthmoving rental businesses.

Operations Director Daniel Fedder has spent his career in the mining industry, working through mining cycles on both the miner and buyer sides, and the seller and supplier sides. He has global procurement experience in copper, coal, and zinc mining and has multicategory procurement experience, namely in capital equipment and mining consumables. With two decades of experience in information systems, Adrian Vinnicombe, Director of Innovation, has worked across the financial services and heavy equipment industries. Having attained a Masters in Project Management, Adrian has led a broad range of projects in the information systems field, including the design and implementation of systems in financial services, transaction processing, and asset management.

Earthmoving Supplies uses the same technological IP that drives its sister company, ComponentsONLY. By expanding upon the IP that sits at the core of ComponentsONLY, the co-founders were able to develop a new business that supports a global market for heavy earthmoving equipment parts.

With data at the core of everything it does, Earthmoving Supplies supports the industries that move, build, and power the world by providing any part, any brand, anywhere.

Earthmoving Supplies harnesses the power of analytics to match supply with demand.

Earthmoving Supplies provides access to parts from all OEM and aftermarket brands.

The Weitai Final Drives are suitable for most of Tilly’s wide range of low-hour machines currently in stock.

A competitive edge

The Flipscreen screening bucket is a ground-breaking piece of equipment that is transforming the way small to medium-sized companies in various industries operate. Its innovative design allows operators to screen any material quickly and easily on-site, improving productivity and efficiency while saving time and money.

The bucket can be attached to any carrier, making it versatile and suitable for various applications. Its unique flipping action breaks down lumps, improving the quality of screened materials.

One of the key benefits of owning a Flipscreen is the ability to change screens on-site easily and quickly without specialised equipment or expertise. The bucket comes with

a range of screens that vary in size from 6mm to 300mm, allowing companies to produce materials of different sizes with minimal downtime.

The changeover can be completed in less than five minutes by one operator, which minimises material wastage and enables companies to take on jobs that require different-sized materials without the need for additional equipment.

The Flipscreen bucket is also a cost-effective screening solution, as it eliminates the need for additional screening equipment or labour.

The bucket is a one-time investment that can be used for years, reducing the overall cost of screening materials over time.

Its versatility means it can be used in various

industries, including construction, mining, landscaping, and agriculture, to screen materials such as soil, sand, gravel, and rock. The bucket can also be used for waste processing, composting, recycling, and scrap metal.

The bucket is easy to operate and maintain, and its simple design requires minimal maintenance. Operators can focus on their work and not waste time on complicated maintenance procedures.

The bucket is also environmentally friendly, reducing carbon footprint by eliminating the need for additional transportation and handling of materials. Plus, the one-time handling, and the ability to mix concrete and wash materials on-site, means less machinery and a big saving on fuel.

Owning a Flipscreen can give small to medium-sized companies a competitive edge. It allows companies to complete jobs more quickly and efficiently, which can lead to more work and increased profits. It also allows companies to take on jobs that they may not have been able to complete in the past due to the cost and time associated with screening materials offsite.

The bucket enables companies to mix seed mix, or topsoil mixes, increase the quality of wood products, wash gabion rocks, and other activities that produce saleable products, translating to an attachment that puts more money in the bank.

The Flipscreen screening bucket is a valuable investment for small to medium-sized companies in various industries. Its ability to increase productivity, save money, and reduce environmental impact makes it an ideal tool for companies looking to improve their operations and stay competitive.

For more information, visit: www.flipscreen.net or call 02 9160 6432

The Flipscreen is flipping the script on the material screening process for a range of industries.

The Flipscreen’s versatility means it can be used in industries such as construction, mining, landscaping, agriculture, and more.

The Flipscreen’s flipping action breaks down lumps, improving the quality of the screened material.

Sustainability in focus

Komatsu is strengthening its focus on sustainability with a key appointment.

Henrietta Jukes has joined the Komatsu Australia executive team as General Manager Safety and Sustainability, a newly created role as the machinery company strengthens its position on sustainability throughout the workplace and industry.

Henrietta will work with the executive team to lead safety and ESG strategy initiatives and achieve Komatsu’s strategic goals in these areas. Komatsu’s national safety team will report directly to Henrietta, with a core focus on elevating their safety initiatives to an industry best practice level.

“It’s an exciting time for the business, as Komatsu’s electrification and Smart Construction offering continues to advance, and our workplace practices adapt to ensure we’re more sustainable and safe,” Henrietta said. “That will continue to be my focus, and supporting our teams to create value together.”

Henrietta brings with her a wealth of experience, having worked at Westside Corporation, ERM Australia and GHD in Australia, plus some time in Abu Dhabi with GHD. She has a Bachelor of Geography and Environmental Science (Hons), Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management and Post Graduate Certificate in Occupational Hygiene.

Henrietta said she was looking forward to using her years of experience to progress Komatsu as a sustainability leader.

“My experience working across the health, safety, environmental risk, governance, and occupational hygiene sectors means I’m ready to take Komatsu to another level on our strategic safety journey and building on the

work already done on ESG,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge, and most importantly the opportunities inside and outside Komatsu to move the business forward, and make Komatsu the preeminent place for people to work.”

Henrietta will be based at Komatsu’s Wacol operations in Queensland, and will be visiting the wider Komatsu team across the country over the next few months.

Her appointment follows the release of Komatsu’s 2022 Annual Report. The report shows the business achieving strong results across its key CSR themes – enhancing quality of life, developing people, and growing with society.

The report shows that in FY21 there was a 19 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions from product use (compared to 14 per cent the previous year), a 37 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions from productions (compared to 30 per cent the previous year) and a 64 per cent reduction in use of water across their plant globally (compared to 52 per cent the previous year).

The report also shows pleasing results across Komatsu’s initiatives to develop a strong and diverse workforce, and collaboration with stakeholders to resolve social issues.

Komatsu is committing to sustainability throughout the workplace and industry.

Henrietta Jukes, General Manager Safety and Sustainability, Komatsu Australia.

Under pressure

Cost escalation continues to put pressure on the civil construction industry, writes Damian Long, CCF

The civil construction industry in Queensland is an essential part of the state’s infrastructure, supporting economic growth and development. However, as I have previously written, the industry is still facing significant cost escalation pressures that threaten its future growth and sustainability.

Whilst cost escalation is a common issue in the construction industry, the rising costs of materials, labour, and equipment required to complete a project can quickly spiral out of control, leading to significant delays, cost overruns, and even project cancellation. In recent years, the civil construction industry in Queensland has faced significant, unforeseen, and unmanageable cost escalation pressures due to a variety of factors, including a shortage of skilled labour, rising material costs, and increasing regulatory and policy requirements. The demand for skilled construction workers has been increasing in recent years, but the supply has not kept pace.

This is having significant implications for the industry’s future growth and sustainability. Construction companies that cannot effectively manage cost escalation may struggle to remain competitive and profitable, which can limit their ability to take on new projects and invest in new technology and equipment. Additionally, cost escalation can lead to delays and project cancellations, which can harm the reputation of construction companies and lead to long-term damage to their business.

Regulatory and policy requirements are also contributing to cost escalation in the civil construction industry in Queensland. The Queensland Government has implemented a range of social and sustainability targets to

QLD CEO.

be delivered under the contract. While these policies provide social and environmental benefit, they can also add significant costs to a project. Meeting regulatory requirements can involve additional permits, fees, levees, inspections, and other expenses that can quickly add up.

Clients and contract administrators have mixed responses to the problem. We are still seeing blatant disregard for these issues facing contractors. Contractors run a massive financial risk in engaging with clients who are not prepared to address the increasing cost pressures within their procurement processes, contracts, and contract management. There is also a real risk to the client that their projects will not be delivered through non-participation of the industry, poor performance of the contractor, or if the contractor goes broke.

The forecast pipeline of infrastructure projects for Queensland and Australia is growing over the coming years. The Queensland Government has just announced joint funding with the Federal Government of $7 billion. While a lot of this money will go to vertical infrastructure, there is a range of supporting civil infrastructure to be constructed. There is also an ambitious construction pipeline of renewables and a much needed catch up of infrastructure for

Queensland’s growth. These issues combined will mean every contractor will be required to operate at their maximum capacity.

The cost escalation pressures are creating a lot of stress on capital works programs as these budgets are being overrun. Based on the gap in infrastructure needed and the rate of delivery, the delaying or cancellation of projects should not be an option. Both the Federal and Queensland governments must increase these budgets in line with the inflationary pressures due to external and internal factors. However, the impact on budgets can be softened.

Some initiatives that should be used are the continued use of collaborative contracts and early contractor involvement, flexibility in specifications, client support to adopt new strategies and technologies, and to embrace more sustainable building practices.

Sustainable building practices can reduce material costs by using recycled or locally sourced materials, and improve energy efficiency – which can lead to lower operating costs over time. Compliance and conformance mechanisms in contracts need to be simplified and embrace new technology. This will assist in building delivery efficiencies instead of placing an additional administrative burden and productivity hand breaks.

The key to overcoming the issue of rising costs and a growing pipeline of work is for all stakeholders to proactively work together to challenge the status quo and implement emerging and established construction practices, technologies, specifications, designs, procurement, and contract management methods which are being used in Australia and overseas.

Momentum for a sustainable transport sector

Roads Australia calls for further procurement reform to lift productivity and resilience throughout the transport infrastructure sector.

exposed to increased risk of business failure, and the community not receiving the full benefits of projects, harming our industry’s social licence.

“This report provides a comprehensive pathway for obtaining better outcomes for all these parties by incentivising collaboration, reducing adversarial approaches, and allowing the community to get the best value for money and the best project outcomes for the investments being made.

“Given the challenging conditions that the market now faces, this is the right time to make further progress on procurement reform. A sustainable, productive, and successful transport infrastructure sector where the whole industry works together for better outcomes is an imperative. The recommendations in this report will help bring this objective to fruition.”

Roads Australia (RA) is calling for a range of further reforms to procurement processes that will help the transport infrastructure sector navigate challenging market conditions and strengthen the sector’s productivity.

The call comes as RA releases its Procurement Reform Report Update: Momentum for a Sustainable Transport sector. The Report contains 28 recommendations for reform across core areas of procurement designed to foster collaboration, promote innovation, manage risks more effectively, and help build a stronger, more diverse workforce for the sector.

“This report builds on the reform ideas first put forward in RA’s Procurement Reform Report: Recommendations and Strategies in September 2020 and adapts them to reflect prevailing market conditions, as industry grapples with challenges that include supply chain disruptions, high inflation, and a tightening labour market,” said RA CEO, Michael Kilgariff.

“RA conducted a survey several months ago in which two thirds of respondents indicated procurement reform is now even more urgent than it was 12 months ago. This sense of urgency was further amplified during industry workshops RA hosted to support the development of this report.

“Post-COVID economic factors such as rapidly rising prices, skills shortages, and supply chain uncertainty are now clearly exacerbating what was already a complex and challenging operating environment for industry participants.

“There have been some encouraging developments on procurement reform since RA’s first report in 2020, and this update highlights many of these examples of good

practice, to promote knowledge sharing and encourage other parts of the industry to adapt and build on these reform ideas to suit their own circumstances.

“However, challenges in the market have brought greater urgency to the need for reform. Without further progress in the near term, we are likely to see government clients unable to deliver planned transport projects, industry

RA’s report makes recommendations designed to reverse stagnation in productivity growth in the sector by:

• encouraging more collaborative approaches to contracting

• reducing regulatory barriers to innovation

• embracing circular economy opportunities to improve sustainability

• facilitating approaches to risk management that result in fewer disputes

• ensuring that industry training programs are equipping the workforce with the right skills

• improving the wellbeing of the workforce by sharing knowledge and successes in initiatives that improve industry culture.

For further information, visit:

Roads Australia calls for further procurement reform to lift productivity and resilience throughout the transport infrastructure sector.

Two thirds of respondents to an RA survey indicated procurement reform is now more urgent than it was a year ago.

Allied Earthmovers Association

Allied Earthmovers Association Manager Ann Callaghan on the history of “The Buckets”.

During the construction of Warragamba Dam in the 1950s, a flying fox was constructed to carry buckets of gravel from McCanns Island quarry (Emu Plains, Penrith, NSW), following the Nepean River along the escarpment of the Blue Mountains, to the dam construction site.

These buckets were known as “The Flying Buckets”. There are not many people around now who would remember that far back, but as it employed so many people in the Penrith area, almost everyone from the local area knows someone in the family who worked on the project.

We may no longer have the Flying Buckets, but buckets still maintain a strong presence in the Penrith area. The Golden Bucket Allied Earthmovers Association (otherwise fondly known as “The Buckets”) is an association made up of owner operators of earthmoving equipment and trucks.

The association began in Sydney in 1987 when 12 operators decided to get together and start something new to look after the interest of owner operators. Today, while we still have a strong presence in the Nepean District, we are certainly not constrained by area. We can service all over Australia, with members in all areas of NSW, and a few in Queensland.

Our members meet once a month – with our last meeting held at the Nepean Rowing Club (which happens to look towards McCanns

Australia in Horningsea Park. The last time we met there was in March 2020 when COVID-19 was something we were sure would go away in a few months. Now past events are pinpointed in relation to it – an event is either labelled pre-, during-, or post-COVID.

Members are looking forward to meeting the team at JCB CEA “post-COVID”.

Our association is a not-for-profit organisation which promotes friendship, trades information, assists with compliance and education, helps out during work shortages or work overload, and helps you save money on your insurance.

If you’re an owner operator and this sounds like something you would like to check out, why not give us a call and book in for one of our Trade Night meetings. Or find us at Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at Eastern Creek.

You’ll find we’re a friendly bunch and there’s no obligation on your part. Just come along and see if you can learn something.

For more information, visit www. goldenbucket.org.au or give us a call on

Aaron Anderson presented with his new Spitwater Pressure washer.

The “Flying Buckets” over Emu Plains circa 1952. Image courtesy of Penrith City Council.

Allied Earthmovers stand at Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo.

The SK135SR-7 perfectly demonstrates the commitment Kobelco has to designing and manufacturing the most capable excavators available, built with Japanese quality for legendary reliability.

As the #1 selling machine in the 14 tonne class, the SK135SR-7 combines unbeatable performance, fuel efficiency and reliability with a premium operator station and modern machine design.

And now Australia’s most popular short radius heavy excavator is available with a proven Isuzu Tier 3 engine, with no DPF and no AdBlue required, reducing operating costs and increasing convenience.