Christmas is done, New Year’s has been dealt with, Australia Day – or whatever you chose to celebrate on January 26 – was a raging success, Valentine’s Day swept by in an orgy of chocolate and love hearts, and here we now sit, catching our breath before bracing ourselves for Easter.
I sometimes wonder how we get any work done.
Even when there’s no public holidays for months, I wonder how Kah Chi and Jamie get any work done… or if they get any work done. Every time I get to look away from my computer screen, which is sometimes as often as twice a day, I see the pair practicing chip shots into the back of a ute in the parking lot. I had to go down there and threaten them with a written warning if they damaged the work vehicle, but they pointed out they weren’t using our ute, so everything was fine.
Do you have something you’d like to share with the industry? Send EEM an email at tom@maynemedia.com.au
We’re keen to get your thoughts.
I also had request they not set up a putting green in the tea room using old bits of carpet and items of office crockery. Aside from creating possible trip hazards and making use of the tea room difficult, I pointed out using their workmates cups as holes in the ‘green’ could end up with a lot of broken drinking receptacles. The pair claimed they made sure there was fluid in the cup to ‘slow and control ball deceleration’, but they did grab their bits and pieces and leave.
It’s tough being the bad guy sometimes. The sooner the Diesel Dirt & Turf golf day in late February is over, the better. Although, with DDT itself scheduled for just a few weeks later on April 8 and 9, there’s probably not a big likelihood those two will be seen much around the office between times.
This issue is another pride-of-placer, with case studies on Border Constructions partnering
up with BrisVegas Machinery and Kobelco, Fenix Resources and Cat in West Aussie, and Marino Excavations and CJD Equipment in FNQ. We’re featuring skid steers and track loaders, and of course we’re jam-packed with industry news, products and excellent industry-focused advice.
In fact, as I work my way through the finished magazine, I’m surprised just how much firstclass writing and top-shelf photography we’ve managed to squeeze in. I guess Jamie and Kah Chi must’ve filed some bits and pieces while I was stuck at my desk. Maybe I’ve misjudged them.
I hope you all enjoy the issue, I’ll have to leave you to it. There seems to be a dimpled lump of something floating around in my coffee.
Tom Foster Contributing Editor
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.
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.
NSW
CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT 535 Dallinger Road, Lavington NSW, 2641. 02 6025 0444. www.capitalconstruction.com.au
FRANKS SERVICE CENTRE 186 Wakaden Street, Griffith, 2680, NSW 02 6962 6073. www.fscforklifts.com.au/
NORTH WEST FARM MACHINERY 22-26 Whittaker Street, Quirindi, 2343, NSW. 02 6746 3300. www.nwfm.com.au
STM EQUIPMENT Unit 3, 28 Dunn Rd, Smeaton Grange, NSW 2567 02 4728 7500 www.stmequipment.com.au
THREE RIVERS MACHINERY 25 Zora Street, Warren NSW, 2824 02 6847 3111. www.3rm.com.au
WATSON TRACTORS 40 Vale Road Bathurst, NSW, 2795 02 6331 1978. www.watsontractors.com.au
SCTM (Canberra) 1/45 Bayldon Road, Queanbeyan, NSW ,2620 02 6299 1500. www.sctm.com.au
SCTM (Wollongong) 6 Mineral Road, Oak Flats, NSW, 2529 024257 1500. www.sctm.com.au
EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT AUSTRALIA (EEA) 99 Glenwood Drive, Thornton, NSW, 2322. 02 9671 1000. www.eeaustralia.com.au
EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT AUSTRALIA (EEA) 123 Cobalt Street, Carole Park, QLD, 4300. 1300 753 332. www.eeaustralia.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (DALBY) 17563 Warrefo Highwyay, Dalby, QLD, 4550. 07 4662 2288. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MILNE BROS EQUIPMENT (BILOELA) 61-67 Dawson Highway, Biloela, QLD, 4715. 07 4992 1099. www.milnebros.com.au
MILNE BROS EQUIPMENT (EMERALD) 67 Macauley Road, Emerald, QLD, 4720. 07 4982 4824. www.milnebros.com.au
MILNE BROS EQUIPMENT (ROCKHAMPTON) Gladstone Road & Derby Street, Rockhampton, QLD, 4700. 07 4930 0300. www.milnebros.com.au
SQMH 10 Bain Court, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350. 07 4634 2744. www.sqmh.com.au
LARWOOD AG SERVICES
38 Moonta Road, Kadina, SA, 5554. 08 8821 1999. www.larwoods.com.au
ROCKY RIVER AG 62 Wongabirrie Road, Crystal Brook, SA, 5523 08 8636 2772. www.rockyriverag.com.au
SA TRACTORS
12/160 Churchill Road North, Cavan, SA, 5094. 08 8349 7500. www.satractors.com.au
DLM MACHINERY
17/19-21 Killafaddy Road, St Leonards, TAS, 7250. 03 6339 1550. www.dlmmachinery.com
BALLARAT TRACTORS 155 Learmonth Street, Ballarat, VIC, 3350. 03 5334 2444. www.ballarattractors.com.au
GLENMAC SALES & SERVICE 85 BaldHill Road, Pakenham, VIC, 3810. 03 5941 5966. www.glenmac.com.au/
KV EQUIPMENT 221 Midland Highway, Epsom, VIC, 3551 03 5445 6999. www.kvequipment.com.au
MELBOURNE TRACTORS
110 Hume Highway, Somerton, VIC, 3062. 03 9303 5777. www.melbournetractors.com.au
MELTRAC MACHINERY 6703 Princes Highway, Terang, VIC, 3264 03 5536 0222. www.meltrac.com.au
PRIMTEC TRACTORS 698 Benetook Ave, Mildura, VIC, 3502. 03 5022 1004. www.primtectractors.com.au
FORKWEST
68 McCombe Road, Bunbury, WA, 6230 08 97254970. www.forkwest.com.au
GEOFF 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. 08 9071 1155. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (GERALDTON) 160 Flores Road, Geraldton, WA, 6530. 08 99605500. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (KATANNING) Lot 4 Nyabing Road, Katanning, WA, 6317. 08 9821 7000. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (KULIN) 294 Pump Road, Kulin, WA, 6365 08 9880 2556. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (MERREDIN) 52 Mitchell Street, Merredin, WA, 6415 08 9041 1099. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
MCINTOSH & SON (PERTH) 547 Great Eastern Highway Redcliffe, WA, 6104 08 9475 1600. www.mcintoshandson.com.au
SOURCE MACHINERY 6 Reggio Rd Kewdale, Kewdale/Karratha, WA, 6105. 08 9358 3389. www.sourcemachinery.com.au
ACCESS SERVICE AUSTRALIA
ACCESS SERVICE AUSTRALIA 26 Kilto Crescent, Glendenning, NSW, 2761. 02 9832 9990. www.accessservice.com.au
71 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge, QLD, 4110. 07 3219 5130. www.accessservice.com.au 32 Healey Road, Dandenong South, VIC, 3175. 03 9768 2155. www.accessservice.com.au
DC SERVICES 13 Carroll Street, Mount Louisa, QLD, 4814. 07 4774 2733. www.dcservicesnq.com
MOTION MACHINERY
1/10 Dickens Place Armadale, WA, 6112. www.motionmachinery.com.au
Epiroc company Erkat has thrown its support behind German-based research aimed at making mining, tunnelling and demolition operations more efficient, safer and environmentally friendly, adapting an ER 650 transverse drum cutter for the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg’s RockFeel project.
RockFeel is designed to detect changes in rock strength, material differences, chisel blockage and wear during operation, with Erkat adapting the ER 650 for the project’s recently commissioned cutting test bench.
Erkat advised that the technology will, according to RockFeel, improve deposit yield, with waste material reduced by at least 10 per cent, while mining safety would be enhanced by the timely detection of caving risk, and an extended pick life would result in fewer pick change interruptions.
In addition to this, environmental benefits include significantly less water and energy consumption, fewer chemicals and no more
explosive gases, with RockFeel streamlining the process chain and paving the way for cheaper and greener lean mining.
The project’s opening day demonstration saw a tracked excavator and the ER 650 equipped with various sensors, allowing for the wireless transmission of data, with Erkat instructing the project team in the optimal handling of the cutter.
“Reliable real-time analysis of the rock would bring a whole range of advantages for our customers,” Erkat Managing Director Martina Schierholz said.
“We save time, improve yield, increase safety and contribute to our environmental protection efforts. We couldn’t ignore these many good arguments. We are following the progress of
the RockFeel project with great interest and hope that this innovation will be a milestone for our customers.”
ER transverse drum cutters can be put to use across rock or concrete wall and surface profiling, trenching, soft rock and frozen soil excavation and demolition applications, with the product line featuring:
• Extremely robust spur gears – for optimum energy transmission and reliability
• QuickSnap retaining system – for quick and easy pick changing (ER 600-3000)
• Large variety of cutting heads – for various applications
• Robust housing design – with HARDOX wear protection for higher uptime
• Underwater use – capable up to 30 m without additional installation or modification
• Mechanical 360° rotatable bracket – with central fixing bolt for easy positioning of the drum cutter (ER 50-3000)
• Adoptable high-torque gear motor – for higher productivity and motor lifetime
• High load-resistant output shaft bearing system – with lubrication-free slide ring seal system
• Pick sleeves – are replaceable (ER 1500-5500)
Epiroc’s HATCON (Hydraulic Attachment Tools Connectivity) remote monitoring solution is available with the ER transverse drum cutter range (ER 100-5500), with Epiroc advising it “enables next-level fleet management by monitoring operating hours, location and service intervals of your tools”.
“The data from HATCON provides a new level of control,” Epiroc states. “Making sure the utilisation is evenly distributed, optimising transport and increasing uptime with preplanned service stops has never been easier.”
HATCON works in conjunction with Epiroc’s cloud-based My Epiroc platform, with users able to log in via computer or smart device either in the office or the field, accessing their data and receiving notifications when it’s time for a service.
Epiroc states that My Epiroc is “a platform developed to be a workflow optimisation
partner, helping users keep track of productivity with relevant alerts and status updates”, with it highlighting the things that require immediate attention.
“Whenever support is needed, My Epiroc users are just a click or a swipe away from remote guided support, finding contacts, or to a transparent overview of all previously reported
inquiries,” Epiroc advises. “It is easy to manage tasks and actions related to the fleet in an efficient way and get the input needed in order to prepare for reporting.
“Data is securely stored in an encrypted cloud environment, which customers can also utilise to upload their own relevant content to create a safe digital fleet library over time.”
HATCON, available factory mounted or as a retrofit kit for premium range breakers and drum cutters, assists with:
• Fleet utilisation – make sure the utilisation of your fleet is evenly distributed, monitoring the position and operating hours of each tool
• Efficient servicing – connected tools mean when it’s time for a service, parts are already prepared to minimise downtime
• Keep track of tools – access the GPS position of every tool using your phone and My Epiroc
• Strengthen anti-theft – in addition to alerts about wear part status and service, the GPS function strengthens your anti-theft system
At Moody Kiddell & Partners, we see your success as our business.
For forty years, we have partnered with the earthmoving industry to provide finance and insurance solutions for your business.
From enquiry through to paid claim, we dig in with you every step of the way.
Call today to see how one of Moody Kiddell’s equipment finance and insurance experts can tailor solutions for your specific business needs.
What are partners for?
Moody
Founded in 1960, Stucchi is today one of the main producers of solutions for fluids connection and control. Stucchi quick couplings, operating up to pressures of 700 bar, are designed and produced in Italy to cover a wide range of applications, thanks to the use of different materials, the numerous sizes and configurations available.
Visit us in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and on stucchigroup.com
Bristling with technology and performance features, the new Cat® D4 is the latest in the range of Next Generation track type tractors to reach Australian shores.
Succeeding the renowned Cat D6K2, Product Specialist Sean Ho says the D4 is the latest release to sport the new Cat nomenclature and deliver superior performance with a broad range of features, and options, to help owners extract maximum value.
“The Cat D4 (formerly D6K2) has long been a favourite because of its power, precision and optimised balance for smooth grading performance. The latest D4 takes the value up a level with improved sight lines, reduced operating costs, faster steering response and the broadest choice of easy-to-use technology features to improve machine productivity and efficiency,” Ho said.
“With the new, clear, size-based machine designations we have removed complexity for customers by aligning the D4 in the line-up of recently released machines that now includes the D1, D2, D3, D5, D6 and D11.”
The D4 is available in Standard or Low Ground Pressure (LGP) dedicated configurations.
“A Variable Pitch Angle Tilt (VPAT) blade is standard, with an option for a foldable VPAT blade to reduce transport width,” Ho
said. “This machine is loaded with performance features to ensure work is done quicker, more accurately and with more control.”
The D4 weighs in at 13,272 kg, with a net power of 130 hp (97 kW). D4 LGP has an operating weight of 14,008 kg.
Stable Blade works seamlessly with the operator’s blade movements to help produce a smoother surface, is a standard feature. From here, one can simply add to the D4 platform to best suit their needs.
“Select the optional Slope Assist as a GRADE feature that provides basic blade position assistance without a GPS signal making it ideal for operators needing to create a simple design on-the-go,” Ho added.
Ho said, “Customers can also further up-grade to have the D4 fitted out with a fully integrated, and factory installed, GRADE 3D
(GPS) for automatic blade control allowing to easily fulfill a range of complex designs. Interaction through a large 25cm (10 inch) touch screen display is easy to use – just like an Android OS smart phone.”
“What you will notice is there are no longer blade positioning cylinders used before,
but IMU’s mounted on mainframe and blade structures with antennas in cabin roof eliminating any risk of damage. It will also work seamlessly with blade mounted laser or UTS systems,” he added.
“What is new is the ability to benefit with Traction Control and AutoCarry™ with integrated GRADE 3D offering and work seamlessly with Slope Assist,” Ho said.
“Traction control saves time, fuel and track wear by temporarily reducing track power so the operator can adjust the blade load to limit any track slip. AutoCarry™ automating blade lift to help get more consistent blade loads with each pass,” he added.
“All these features link seamlessly with the hydrostatic transmission to offer the ideal ground speed for the work required.
“Technology smart, the D4 allows operators to be ‘best-in-class’ when working to site plans,” Ho said.
Ho pointed out that a key driver in the new D4 was to reduce maintenance costs by having longer service intervals.
“Customers can expect up to 7 per cent lower maintenance cost as the engine oil/engine oil filter service interval has been extended. Service intervals have also been extended on the air cleaner and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) pump filter. LED lights offer up to six times the life of halogen to save on parts cost.”
The Cat D4’s Eco modes optimise engine speed, while maintaining ground speed and power to help customers save fuel in lighter blade load applications like finish grading. Other efficiency features reduce engine speed when idling or shut the machine down after a specified time, which also helps to further save fuel and meet idling regulations.
The new cab is key to the customer experience. Inside the cabin, operators will enjoy a new large 25 cm (10 inch) display amongst a raft of features to not only set-up and overview the machines performance but provide some helpful operating tips.
The cab has integrated Roll Over Protection (ROPS) with 15 per cent more glass area and wider for comfort. Now with a steeper forward hood profile, there is 30 per cent better forward visibility to the blade and worksite.
Ho further explained, “A new wider air-suspension seat now has more adjustment settings available, additional storage spaces, new USB jack, 12V ports and combines beautifully with the new touch screen monitor allowing operators to not only keep a sharp eye on the machine’s performance, but work long shifts with reduced fatigue.
“This display also acts as extra eyes for a high-definition rearview camera display – with back-up lines to help guide you,” he added.
Interaction with the new D4 is also more seamless. A Cat App helps you manage the machine’s location hours but also delivers
critical maintenance alerts, while Cat Remote Services allows software updates to the machine wirelessly and with remote trouble shoot to perform remote diagnostics.
“The D4 is ready to maximise your versatility. All in all, this is an exciting new addition to the extensive Cat track type tractor line-up,” Ho said, adding it is “on-track for tough applications while having the ‘smarts’ to help you get the work done accurately and effectively.”
The D4 can also be ordered with specialised guarding to take on the challenges of forestry/ land clearing. In addition to machine protection against impacts and airborne debris, these specialty dozers can be ordered with an impactresistant cab featuring polycarbonate windows. For more information visit www.cat.com or contact the local Cat dealer.
The job site is no place for equipment failure. Rhino Buckets are built to withstand more. Built with Bisalloy® steel, all welds exceed Australian Standards for guaranteed strength and longevity.
Rhino Excavator Attachments are built for the toughest job sites:
+ Rhino buckets were designed, tested and proven over years on the job in the punishing Pilbara. Thousands of kilometers from a replacement, our customers depend on Rhino delivering quality when and where it matters most.
+ Backed by a 2-year warranty and industry-best support - we don’t hide behind legal fine print.
+ Dual Radius Profile on digging buckets stops excess drag on the bucket and offers dramatic performance advantages
Why Gromac Quarries recently chose Cat® Certified Rebuilds for their 980 Wheel Loader and 345 Excavator.
Gromac Quarries is a family owned and operated business in Northern Queensland that specialises in the supply of quality quarry products. They produce concrete aggregates, sealing aggregates, crushed rock, sand and road base pavement materials. Registered with Queensland Main Roads, Gromac supplies and delivers to the Civil, Rail and Road construction industries. The Gromac fleet includes Cat® Wheel Loaders, Excavators and Articulated Trucks – 48 in total.
As the Operations Manager at Gromac, Paul Hooton recently made the decision to order Cat Certified Machine Component Rebuilds on one of their Cat 980 Wheel Loaders and a Cat 345 Excavator. There were many sound reasons for the choice to rebuild. In particular, Paul cites operator familiarity with the current machines as the deciding factor. For Gromac, buying a new machine would have meant additional training for the fitters or the need to bring in more highly trained technicians. As Paul says, “The quarry locations and the Tier 3 engines that we currently have
“We reduced our costs – and rebuilt our way.”
make it more flexible for our fitters to work in remote locations.”
Paul’s Customer Support Representative at Hastings Deering, Barry Searle, worked closely with Giro Samale, Caterpillar’s Aftermarket Service Representative to provide Paul with the optimal rebuild solution.
Giro outlined Paul’s options, in particular the main benefits of a Cat Certified Machine Component Rebuild. As Giro said, “It’s done
Whatever your situation, there is a Cat rebuild solution to suit your business needs and give your Cat machine a new lease on life. For a fraction of the cost of a new machine, a Cat rebuild can return your end-of-life machines, systems and components to like-new condition. You’ll also enjoy the peace of mind of an extended warranty^ with ongoing support from your Cat dealer. The financing options are attractive too, with interest as low as 0% and secured financing for 24 months* for Cat Certified Rebuilds. That’s Aftermarket Smarts.
by the dealership using skilled technicians using the most updated Cat technology with only Cat genuine parts. It incorporates all the latest engineering upgrades that are available to that machine. And you have a factory standard option for extended protection that covers both parts and labour for the duration that you choose.”
Paul couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the machine component rebuilds.
They certainly won’t be the last Cat rebuilds that Gromac undertakes. As he says, “Based on our previous Cat Certified Rebuilds, we’re in talks with our dealer to get component rebuilds done on two 980H Wheel Loaders, and a full rebuild on a 980H Wheel Loader.”
Scan the QR code or speak to your local Cat dealer to discuss a Cat rebuild solution that best fits your equipment and business needs.
*^Terms and conditions apply. See cat.com/rebuilds-au for details.
Komatsu has released a significant update to its intelligent Machine Control (iMC) technology, known as iMC 2.0, that delivers major productivity, efficiency and cost saving advantages to its latest model “intelligent” dozers and excavators.
The new technology is available on the justreleased D71EXi/PXi-24 and D61EXi/PXi-24, D65EXi/PXi-18 and the D85EXi-18 dozers and the PC210LCi-11, PC290LCi-11 and PC360LCi-11 excavators.
iMC 2.0 further advances the automation capabilities of these new machines, with factory integrated enhancements including two multiconstellation GNSS antennas.
These advances significantly enhance iMC dozer operations on slopes, while new-generation iMC excavator hydraulic cylinders incorporate the latest Komatsu stroke sensing technology with a new factory IMU (inertial monitoring unit) sensor attached to the tilting attachment, automating the tilting function.
In addition, iMC 2.0 features all-new “intelligent” high resolution touchscreen monitors, purpose designed for each machine type, that provide accurate displays of machine operating conditions, and the jobsite design.
Operators can customise split-screen views to give themselves the optimum views of what they want to focus on, while an easy-to-use multi-touch navigation system provides realtime information on bulk earthmoving, grading, digging and finishing.
All these combine to ensure greater accuracy and increased response speeds, according
to Aaron Marsh, Komatsu’s National Product & Solution Manager with its SmartConstruction & Integrated Machine Control Division.
“Our new iMC 2.0 products, services and digital solutions incorporate a host of advanced machine technologies – some exclusive to Komatsu – allowing users to integrate sophisticated productivity-enhancing automation and cutting-edge jobsite design into their operations,” he said.
“By applying Komatsu dantotsu (unique and unrivalled) principles, this latest technology
delivers distinct benefits with automated and semi-automated dozer and excavator operations.”
Available initially on Komatsu’s new D71EXi/ PXi-24 and D61EXi/PXi-24, D65EXi/PXi-18 and the D85EXi-18 dozers, iMC 2.0 automatically controls the blade so that it closely follows the target surface, controlling cut depth while avoiding track shoe-slip.
Exclusive features of iMC 2.0 on dozers include Lift Layer Control, and Tilt Steering Control.
With Lift Layer Control, the dozer automatically spreads fill material from existing areas of the worksite with just the press of a button, then measures the terrain it’s tracking over –and using that data to plan the next pass.
“This feature allows the design surface to be created from as-built data, and can cover lift work,” said Marsh.
“Compared with conventional dozing practices, production rates are doubled, plus – because it’s 100 per cent automatic while automatics are engaged – each layer is completely consistent and accurate.”
The one-touch Tilt Steering Control feature frees the operator from having to steer the dozer to maintain a straight heading, by
continuously and automatically tilting the blade as required to maintain straight-line travel.
“This results in greatly reduced operator fatigue and increased comfort, because operator input is reduced by up to 80 per cent compared with a conventional dozer,” Marsh said.
“And straight-line travel guarantees a cleaner cut, along with increased productivity.”
Other features of iMC 2.0 on Komatsu’s latest dozers includes:
Quick surface creation, letting the operator create a temporary design service at the press of a button, allowing the machine to begin spreading or stripping using automatic modes while awaiting finish-grade designs. The operator simply needs to set the elevation, fall and cross-fall, and get to work.
Proactive dozing control, allowing the dozer to perform dozing and carrying tasks by using the as-built data the machine has collected in previous passes – creating a target blade trajectory by offsetting its collected as-built data. This allows the machine to minimise undulations and under-cutting, with work carried out as smoothly and efficiently as if it were being done by a highly experienced operator.
Manual co-ordination control, enabling the operator to manually adjust blade tilt or lift in cases where the actual surface and the design surface don’t match; automatic operations resume once the steering lever is set back to neutral. The system is designed to be flexible enough that the operator can adjust the work/blade positions as required by jobsite conditions.
Faster blade response on grade breaks, letting the operator temporarily increase blade reactivity in transitions between different grade angles, to avoid over or under digging, and maintain high levels of accuracy.
“In addition to these new features, our iMC 2.0 dozers include two integrated GNSS antennas, which are able to receive location signals from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDoun and QZSS satellites,” said Marsh.
“They also include a new GNSS receiver control box, incorporating an LTE modem for remote access, and a digital transceiver for GNSS correction information.
“These all combine to ensure higher positioning accuracy due to greatly increased satellite availability, and the ability to work
continuously and accurately regardless of how remote the site is, or where there’s vegetation or in hilly or mountainous terrain.
“Through our automatic dozing capabilities, Komatsu machines equipped with iMC 2.0 technology help make every pass count, from bulk cutting out to final trim work.
“This assists customers to achieve superior production rates and lower construction costs compared with traditional aftermarket machine control systems,” he said.
IMC 2.0 EXCAVATOR
Komatsu’s new PC210LCi-11, PC290LCi-11 and PC360LCi-11 now include iMC 2.0 to ensure even greater productivity gains for end-users.
“The renowned accuracy and automatic grading capabilities of our existing iMC machines has been enhanced with new features that increase ease of operation and finish quality, while significantly reducing cycle times,” said Marsh.
“New automatic features, such as Auto Grade Assist, and Auto Tilt Control let the operator relax and focus on productivity, without having to worry about overdigging.
“These two new features keep the bucket edge precisely on-grade, while increasing bucket fill factors,” he said.
iMC 2.0’s Auto Tilt automatically tilts the bucket to design, then returns it to horizontal to unload, so that achieving final grade is significantly quicker and easier.
“This greatly increases ease of operation on slope and ditch work, automatically limiting
under-digging and increasing bucket fill –making delivering final grade quicker and easier,” Marsh said.
“It’s ideal to use with tilting buckets, particularly when working on slopes, ditches and complex designs.”
The Auto Grade Assist function includes a bucket angle hold feature, which lets the operator select the desired bucket angle, then the system automatically holds this angle through the grading pass.
“This makes final grading and trimming work much much easier, while allowing the operator to manually intervene at any time just by operating the bucket lever function.”
According to Marsh, this feature is ideal for final grading, trimming multi-plane surfaces and detailed sealing applications.
“Komatsu iMC 2.0 builds on our unique sensor technology, incorporating strokesensing hydraulic cylinders and IMU sensors, meaning operators no longer need to worry about over digging,” he said.
“When the bucket hits the target surface, the control function automatically limits and maintains grade with real-time bucket edge positioning, ensuring precise and accurate surfaces that exactly match the design, first time, every time.
“This latest excavator dantotsu technology from Komatsu lets us deliver increased productivity, efficiency and finished quality across a wide range of earthmoving, construction and production applications,” Marsh said.
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. For a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Front-line industries worldwide use Komatsu solutions to develop modern infrastructure, extract fundamental minerals, maintain forests and create consumer products. The company’s global service and distributor networks support customer operations to enhance safety and productivity while optimising performance.
Compact machines have been experiencing a major resurgence in Australia over the last 12 months. The demand for used bobcats, skid steers and diggers under 5 tonnes have lifted sales of these assets to close-to-record highs.
At Pickles Industrial they thought this interesting trend required further investigation. They wanted to find out what was driving this demand, and how the current market was reacting to the lack of supply.
A common theme within many Australian industries is supply chain issues. These problems, in part, are a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has slowed, and in some circumstances stopped, the progress and productivity of economies. These economies are largely responsible for the production and manufacturing of materials, goods and parts for new machines.
Shipping has been a main contributor to the shortages of parts and machinery, as well as one of the key reasons for the rising costs of goods.
The global shipping container shortage is one reason why many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as Caterpillar and Kubota, are struggling to get their compact machines on board ships for export. This was due to orders for new containers being cancelled during the pandemic, with market recoveries beating expectations.
Port issues in both the US and China have also been slowing trade routes and delaying the availability of ships to move cargo to their necessary destinations. Other incidents, such as the 2021 Suez Canal accident, created a lasting ripple effect, which caused delays and schedule setbacks.
The cost of shipping goods has also increased dramatically. When you combine shortages, price spikes, travel delays, and throw in a rebounding world economy that is hungry to get back to pre-pandemic consumption, the result is a surge in demand with reduced supply. In some scenarios, this has resulted in shipping costs being 25% to 50% higher compared to the same time last year, with shipping between the US and China up an astronomical 350% in some cases.
Due to the exorbitant shipping costs that global trade is experiencing, the prices of new compact machinery have increased
significantly. Dealers are seeing ongoing inventory shortages due to delays from OEMS. For those receiving any stock at all, OEMS have had to increase their prices by 4% to 22% to dealers. For some buyers, this has priced them out of the new machinery market and instead, veered their attention to the used market.
Due to the shortage of new compact machinery and subsequent price increases, the used machinery market has become increasingly turbulent. Auction data from Pickles Industrial shows how prices have changed in the last year alone for near identical compact machinery.
A comparison of Kubota SVL75 Skid
demonstrates how demand is outstripping supply and potentially creating a price bubble.
In September of 2020, for instance, a Kubota SVL75 Skid Steer with 852 hours on the clock sold for $60,000. Fast forward to September 2021, the same model, with 835 hours, sold for $66,000 – a 10% increase. Incredibly, a model sold in November 2021 for $76,500, albeit with only 548 hours on the clock. Nonetheless, sales like these are only pushing the price ceiling further.
The recent sales of Kubota 5T Excavators are another example of the exploding used
machinery market. In August of 2020, an excavator sold for $48,000 with a total operational use of 2759 hours. Six months later, the same model with 50 additional operational hours sold for $52,000.
Chip (or semiconductor) shortages have been plaguing many industries globally. The compact machine market has been unable to avoid the problem with manufacturers like Kubota and Caterpillar warning customers of compact machine supply shortfalls. Materials, too, are adding to the strain of compact machine manufacturing as the price of steel and other raw materials continue to surge. A lot of this is to do with mining outfits getting back to 100% production capacity and catching up with demand due to COVID-19 closures.
Equipment hire companies are one of the industries experiencing the effects of compact machinery shortages.
One business that has experienced the disadvantages of machinery shortages is Orange Hire. The Brisbane-based equipment hire company has a compact machinery fleet size of around 140 5 tonne or smaller excavators and 95 track loaders, most of which are Kubota’s. This makes Orange Hire one of the largest owners of Kubota
machines in Australia. A big part of Orange Hire’s asset goals is to maintain one of Australia’s youngest fleets. This is achieved by selling machinery around the 4-year mark, only retaining assets between 2 to 3 years of age.
This makes Orange Hire an interesting study of the effects current market conditions have on enterprises, both experiencing and contributing to these market variances.
Asset & Disposal Specialist at Orange Hire, Jacob Webber, outlined the company’s 2022 outlook when considering the extreme delays of new equipment.
“As our goal is to keep our fleet young and reliable, the importance of acquiring new equipment as we dispose of older equipment is crucial. However, with OEM’s giving us delivery timelines of between 6 to12 months, we are finding it difficult to align this crossover.”
Jacob spoke of how offloading assets is becoming a tricky situation with such a strong used market currently at play.
“We are finding that the second-hand market is exceptionally positive where we are selling assets for a larger percentage of original cost than what we have experienced over the last 12 to 18 months. I see this as the used equipment market moving in line with the new equipment market, whereby the new price is increasing and that is dragging the used equipment price up with it.”
Due to the demand for hire equipment, buying used machinery has become a part of Orange Hires new strategy, as mentioned by Jacob.
“If we identify a compact machine like a skid steer or bobcat with a short usage life, we’ll look to acquire this asset as we know it will have a high rate of hire. Under usual market conditions this wouldn’t even be a consideration, but as we’ve seen, one must take advantage of the excellent hire demand we’re experiencing.”
The higher costs of new compact machinery have significantly impacted the future direction of the company. As Jacob details: “The costs of new machinery have certainly increased, but this is something we just have to accept. We understand that shipping costs have exploded recently, as have shortages of chips and other components which all contribute to the overall price point. A worry for us, however, is what the second-hand market will look like in 18 to 24 months. Will prices remain strong for us to recoup capital investment? Or will it have come off a great deal once more assets enter the market and demand wanes?”
The compact machinery market has become an increasingly interesting market to follow and one worthy of monitoring over time. Pickles Industrial predicts that the trend for higher priced assets will continue and stabilise well into 2022, due to a fluctuating market that has to deal with chip shortages and shipping constraints..
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.
Finance is essential for the success of any business. As a new calendar year approaches, the finance specialists at Moody Kiddell & Partners have drawn up a checklist of key factors you should consider while planning to achieve your growth aspirations for 2022.
Financial expertise and product planning can give your business the flexibility it needs to plan and generally expect growth, with the right foundations. Whether you are looking to grow your business or to continue to fund current operations, it’s always good practice to have additional finance approvals available to capture new opportunities and cover your working capital. This knowledge will allow you to bid with confidence for machinery that allows you to tender for the larger job contracts. Reach the stronger position of a planned growth mindset to explore capital purchases before the opportunities occur, rather than rushing with a reactive approach.
Have you looked at an excavator with a specific attachment or needed to place a large stock order for pipes but been unsure of the cashflow required? Asking ‘what do I need to facilitate those orders to happen seamlessly?’ is a question better asked sooner rather than later. Finance foundations allow you to know what you can do to achieve your growth aspirations and goals. Have the figures sorted so that you can engage with the opportunities in the market as well as having the peace of mind to tackle them with your team.
Every business is different, and it is important that the finance you obtain is suited to your specific circumstances. At Moody Kiddell & Partners, they tailor their financial products so that you can access the finance your business needs to achieve its growth aspirations. They do this by working efficiently through these key factors:
• Debt horsepower or diversity with current lending partners
• Pre-approval of your financed amount
• Funding and debt requirements
• Knowledge of the balance sheet
• Borrowing capacity
• Key financial trends relevant to your business
• Financial ratios (interest cover, leverage, debt)
A detailed evaluation of your business’s financial position will give you a clearer picture of your financing needs, including your appetite for risk, opportunities for appropriate leverage and capital expenditure.
Your business may be capable of expanding faster than you originally expected after gaining accurate financing limits and pre-approvals.
MKP EQUIPMENT LINE: PUTTING YOUR EXISTING EQUIPMENT TO WORK
MKP Equipment Line is their financing tool tailored to the needs of clients for products including earthmoving, truck buckets and more. By aligning your existing plant and equipment closer to their true effective life, MKP Equipment Line can strengthen cash flows, build opportunities for growth, and uncouple your personal assets from your business.
MKP Equipment Line borrows against the true working value of your assets to unlock additional equity in your business. This results in lower monthly financing payments, allowing you to purchase new equipment and fund business improvements, while giving you the flexibility and peace of mind that stronger cash flows provide.
MKP Equipment Line also gives you the confidence to tender for new and larger contracts and finance business critical items including:
• Light commercial vehicles
• Trucks and trailers
• Earthmoving and mining equipment
• Arbor and woodworking equipment
Earthmoving Contractor boosted cash flow by using existing equity in plant and equipment.
A well-established (15yrs+) civil earthmoving contractor required finance of $1,050,000 over 48 months. MKP assisted with the goal to provide working capital, secured against business plant and equipment to allow a much larger pipeline of work. Their client was seeking a facility from a financier who understood the true value of the equity in their well-maintained earthmoving equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, graders, water trucks and wheel loaders.
“It’s been my pleasure to build such a strong partnership with Moody Kiddell & Partners since 2001. I call it a “partnership” because it feels like they have been there every step of the way. They are a “One Stop Shop” that every business needs to service all their financing requirements. The systems, processes and most importantly THE PEOPLE make the whole experience SIMPLE and EFFECTIVE.”
K Kassira | Director, KK Civil EngineeringAs is the case with many earthmoving contractors, the largest asset in this client’s business is the equity in their plant and equipment, and they were looking to leverage this equity to reinvest back into the business. Cash flow mismatch is a common challenge facing many civil and earthmoving contractors when commencing new projects. It is magnified for contractors by the requirement that they also pay bank guarantees and retentions up front. Traditionally, contractors have established and utilised facilities such as an overdraft to plug this working capital gap. Mainstream financiers will typically secure such a facility with a GSA (general security agreement) over the trading and asset holding entities within a group structure, in addition to obtaining mortgages over the residential and commercial properties held by company directors.
MKP have developed a credit product that recognises the true equity in a contractor’s plant and equipment. Leveraging against this value, they were able to create working capital to help the business grow, while giving the customer the flexibility of stronger cash flow and peace of mind by
uncoupling owners’ and directors’ personal assets from the business. The payout figure for these assets was $550,000, and when evaluating this against day one, 80 per cent advance of orderly liquidation value, MKP Finance was able to provide the directors with a working capital
payment of $500,000 into their business bank account. The amount financed was $1,050,000 ($550,000 payout to financiers and $500,000 paid to the business as working capital). The loan term was 48 months, with no end-of-term balloon. In this new finance facility, the client’s monthly payments were equal to their repayments on their existing facilities, with the added benefit of having $500,000 of working capital available in their bank account.
At Moody Kiddell & Partners, they pride themselves on building long term partnerships with their clients. Your success is their business, and in every step of the relationship MKP invest their core values of Integrity, Service and Performance.
Make sure your business has sufficient working capital over the holiday break or secure your project pipeline with access to the right finance facilities to meet your business goals.
Expert knowledge. Immovable support. That’s what it means to be Partners with you.
Get in touch today for a no obligation discussion to finance your next purchase by calling 1300 000 657.
Since 1981, Moody Kiddell has partnered with Australian businesses, providing finance, insurance and advisory solutions. With four decades of multi-industry experience, we offer businesses the tailored service business owners need to achieve their vision and safeguard its legacy.
Civil and electrical infrastructure company TOBCO has enjoyed significant growth since its establishment a little under a decade ago, with the New South Wales-based business – which has a particular expertise in utility infrastructure, and which prides itself on being a hands-on, self-performing contractor – operating across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.
Civil engineers Glen O’Brien and Sam Turnbull started the business in 2013, drawing on a combined 40-plus years’ experience in the industry (with both having held senior positions for tier one construction companies), and have since presided over the expansion of its operations, with TOBCO undertaking small-to-medium-sized construction projects of up to $50 million in value.
TOBCO Civil Construction Manager Ruan van der Merwe told EEM that TOBCO – which is an ASP and RMS pre-qualified principal contractor for the New South Wales electricity distribution network – currently has five main capabilities that it operates in, encompassing the civil, utilities, maintenance, traffic lights and renewables sectors.
Ruan, who as a civil engineer has been working in the construction sector in South Africa and Australia for the last 13 years, said that TOBCO “possesses the experience, staff, accreditations, equipment and reliable contacts necessary to provide a complete EPC contractor service”.
“TOBCO’s fleet comprises over 150 heavy earthmoving plant, specialist civil construction equipment, vehicles and field staff,” he explained. “Owning their own plant
and operators allows TOBCO to control time-delayed risk to ensure the successful completion of client projects.
“In particular, TOBCO undertakes electrical works on over-ground and underground electricity cables, communications installations, electrical power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substations, street and highway lighting, gas supply, water
supply, wastewater, sewerage and storm drain infrastructure.”
Ruan emphasised that TOBCO’s capacity to self-perform most aspects of a project, meaning it does not have to subcontract the majority of its work, helps it to stand out in the market, with it having a range of resources to draw on, along with diverse construction industry experience across both public and private project delivery.
With this foundation in place, TOBCO has been actively involved with varying civil engineering, electrical infrastructure, construction and maintenance works, and is currently undertaking a number of projects.
Among these projects, TOBCO is engaged as the principal contractor for the Namoi River Crossing Project, in Manilla, New South Wales, being undertaken for Tamworth Regional Council, involving the design and construction of a new bridge located approximately 450m upstream from the existing heritage-listed Manilla Bridge.
TOBCO is also working on the New England Solar Farm roadworks, in the Uralla Shire, New South Wales, constructing all access roads for the facility, along with working on various bridges for the Walcha Council, Armidale Regional Council and Tamworth Regional Council.
In addition to this, TOBCO has been undertaking ASP works for several clients in and around Sydney, and overhead electrical works for several councils in New South Wales.
“We have been extremely busy this year, especially in the civil business,” Ruan told EEM. “We have a great order book, and enough work to keep our resources busy until at least the end of the year.”
Assisting its operations, TOBCO has recently installed a number of Leica iCON systems across its fleet of graders, dozers and excavators, utilising the services of C.R. Kennedy, the sole Leica Geosystems distributor in Australia.
“TOBCO are currently using two Leica iCON iGG3 grader systems, a Leica iCON iGD3 dozer system and also a Leica iCON iXE3 excavator system,” C.R. Kennedy Sales Representative, Joshua Smith said.
“They also have an iCG70T tilt GPS rover, which is being used as a foreman’s kit (mounted to the vehicle) and as a rover on a pole, and are utilising an iCG60 base station
with a high-powered UHF radio to achieve GNSS corrections for millimetre accuracy.”
The iGG3 grader system brings design surfaces and alignments virtually inside the cab, providing millimetre-accurate control of the blade, making it ideal for fine-grading applications, with it featuring:
• Auto/manual information directly on the screen
• Fully customisable 3D views of the machine and jobsite
• Design and actual slope always displayed
• Multiple run screens to choose from
The iGD3 dozer system also brings design surfaces and alignments inside the cab, allowing operators to work independently and accurately anywhere on the project design, guided by GNSS or a total station, featuring:
• User-selectable views (e.g. Plan View, Cut & Fill View)
• Visible display screen, even in sunlight
• Remembers all your settings
• Scalable from 2D to full 3D capability
• Create a reference surface with up to four slopes
The iXE3 excavator system is designed to guide the operator using reference models and GNSS in 3D, with design information and real-time cut/fill indications displayed in the cab on the control panel, with it:
• Allowing the operator to rapidly excavate to the reference design, ensuring more uptime and operator satisfaction, while increasing safety and productivity
• Work with a wide range of popular data formats, including the LandXML, DXF, GEO, KOF, L3D, LMD, LIN, MBS and TRM formats
• The operator can use the function “Create Model” to make even complex models directly on the panel without leaving the cab and without the assistance of a surveying engineer
Ruan told EEM that “so far, the products have been great and user-friendly”, noting that one of the primary reasons TOBCO had chosen to utilise C.R. Kennedy is due to the level of service support provided.
In addition to technical support and training, helping businesses to unlock the full potential of their equipment, C.R. Kennedy’s national after-sales service network includes service and repairs support, hire equipment and customer care agreements.
Joshua said that TOBCO’s investment in the Leica range of solutions marks the beginning of the two companies working together, with C.R. Kennedy at the ready to provide the product support required as TOBCO taps into the various benefits of the range.
“Our relationship is only new, around three months old,” he commented. “But they have invested heavily in Leica machine control and are expanding rapidly.”
The key to keeping your plant and equipment in good working order is an effective maintenance schedule. Good maintenance has plenty of benefits. It maximises capital expenditure and return on investment (ROI). It saves time and money by minimising downtime and ensuring reliable service to staff, customers and consumers.
NTI’s Mobile Plant & Equipment Risk Engineer, Hayden Reed, says “maximising ROI depends strongly on good maintenance. If a vehicle or other equipment is unusable, it can’t generate revenue; it’s a cost.”
“Maintenance is a way to maintain a certain function of an asset whilst also maximising the residual value of the asset. It’s essentially just a mixture of those two functions.”
Maintenance is an investment, not a cost. Skimping on maintenance can lead to unpredictable failures and revenue losses.
Costs are incurred as the equipment wears. Resetting to a ‘cost per hour’ format enables
Clean
• Is your equipment cleaned regularly?
you to have a deeper understanding.
Managing maintenance costs is vital to your long-term success. Trying to minimise maintenance costs will most likely result in higher Total cost in Ownership (TCO). Aiming to achieve the lowest cost per hour over the entire life of the asset should enable you to make a long term view of expenditure.
• Is this cleaning done within enclosures as well as externally?
• If not, what would you have to implement to achieve this?
• Does your usage create further risks e.g. in forestry or coal handling?
Lubricate
• Are you using the lubricants recommended by the manufacturer for your operating environment or climate?
• Does your equipment get lubricated sufficiently?
• Does your application require more frequent attention than the OEM baseline?
Adjust
• Is your schedule for adjusting equipment frequent enough to identify problems before they cause damage?
• Are the staff conducting these tasks trained and competent in what to look for and how to adjust?
• Are the specifications used aligned with OEM guidelines?
Inspect
• Do you have a schedule of different inspections performed by trained and competent people?
• Is your daily pre-start inspection specific to the exact equipment (e.g. model and specification) used?
• Are your people empowered to identify and raise issues during inspections?
Repair
• Do suitably experienced and qualified persons undertake your repairs?
• Have you discussed your equipment requirements and maintenance strategy with my maintenance provider?
• Do you have a process to identify and repair all faults before breakdown?
Clean: it’s easier to identify potential faults on clean equipment (and it’s less likely to catch fire or break down. It’s a simple, low-cost practice that also presents your business to clients in a positive light.
Lubricate: most modern equipment no longer requires continuous lubrication. However, it remains critical to keeping your equipment in good condition. If lubrication is inadequate, damage will be almost instantaneous, and it can dramatically reduce the equipment’s operating life.
Adjust: it’s vital to maintain adjustment of components within manufacturer specifications. Doing so will prolong service life and reduce running costs
Inspect: inspections (by experienced and observant personnel) can prevent breakdowns. Arguably the most important of these is the equipment operator’s daily pre-start inspection. Further inspections are best carried out by skilled maintenance personnel at scheduled services to identify any pending issues.
Repair: repairs are best undertaken by experienced maintenance personnel with a thorough knowledge of the equipment, as they will be able to advise the most cost-effective solutions. A structured repair process ensures that all maintenance issues raised are planned and completed before the machine breaks down and further damage is done.
Want more from Australia’s leader in mobile plant and equipment insurance? Visit www.nti.com.au/yellowcover for more information.
Simulators aren’t new to the training world. The first time I had a crack at one was 20 years ago at a mine site in the Hunter Valley, it was pretty cool. Simulators are a tremendous tool for introducing industry operators to a new piece of equipment in a safe, stress-free environment, without impacting production. The evolution of simulators now sees them having the ability to benchmark experienced operators against recommended OEM techniques with the intended outcome of not only having a productive operator, but also one that’s exercising machine health.
One of the most exciting training aids that has dropped onto the scene in recent years is Virtual Reality (VR). To have the ability to totally immerse an operator into a world where everything feels like it’s at their fingertips, still blows my mind. VR by far is a technology that I think will pave the way for operator training into the future.
I recently caught up with Chris Nolan, Account Manager and Design Specialist at Simformotion, the licensee for Cat® Simulators for Caterpillar Inc. for over 13 years, making them Caterpillar’s oldest heavy equipment simulator licensee.
With models for mining, construction and forestry, the product line is vast with more in development. Full simulators feature convertible controls on the same base unit, motion systems, cab seat with working seatbelt, and multi-screen configurations. Save space or cross train with conversions. Compact models are also available for socially distanced stations. Both set-ups include authentic Cat controls and the option for VR edition.
According to Chris, what sets Cat Simulators apart from other brands are the authentic Cat controls and other Cat differences. By using the same genuine controls as found in the actual machine, the operator can make a seamless transition to the field. Each simulator is developed with Caterpillar operator experts, so applications match those found on the real machines. Learners will experience consistent training in the safety of the virtual environment, knowing they are learning “the Cat way”.
Besides working with Cat experts during simulator development, Simformotion also provides training and support for customers. Trainers will work with customers via live stream or arrive onsite. Technical support is available 24x7. Plus, Cat Simulators offers SimScholars™, an online curriculum for a blended learning program in the classroom or for remote learning.
Keen to find out more of what Simformotion can offer your business? Head on over to their website –www.simformotion.com or check out www.catsimulators.com
The Doosan DX140LCR-5 machine builds on Doosan’s enviable reputation for hardworking, reliable and comfortable machines, with this next generation model offering an exceptionally powerful DPF-FREE TIER 4 FINAL engine.
By complying with US Tier 4 regulations, the Tier 4 Final DX140LCR-5 will have no issue operating on jobsites with Tier 4 emission standards - helping future-proof your investment. And with no DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), you will avoid the maintenance issues experienced by other manufacturers - from time consuming regeneration cycles to expensive DPF servicing issues. This makes the Doosan DX140LCR-5 one of the most productive and reliable machines in its class.
Hosted and presented by International Greenkeepers. Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road Eastern Creek.
Plenty of free parking, refreshments and lunch included. Seminar starts 7:30 am finishes at 1:00 pm, followed by guided visit to exhibitors at the 2022 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo. If you work in public space or grounds maintenance planning or construction, you can’t affor to miss this free seminar. Learn about the latest techniques, processes and equipment from some of the industry’s leading professionals.
Register now at www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/free-training-seminar/
Key Speakers include:
Peter Kirby: Industrial herbicide options in the current climate. Peter has worked within the turf and ornamental industry in both commercial and technical roles for 19 years, holding positions with Nuturf, NUfarm, Bayer and Adama.
Steven Jacobson: Will present a session on solving slope and grounds maintenance problems. Steve has previously been a golf course greenkeeper and superintendent.
Toby Clarke: International sales director for Dennis mowers and Sisis equipment. Vertical action aerators, hyrdraulic driven scarifiers, self propelled scarifier and de-thatcher and drum aerators.
Albie Legget: from Australian Lawn Care speaking on disease management. Albie has 30 years sports turf industry experience, He is a qualified greenkeeper and golf course superintedent, holding a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Sydney and involved in technical research
Ben Gibson: Building a great safety culture through effective leadership. Ben appears on industry podcasts and national Turf Association magazines and a speaker turf industry events in Australia, Asia, New Zealand and the US.
and James Evins of John Deere: Will speak about advances in smart technology and business lessons from the age of coronavirus.
Other program presenters include Matt Goodbun and Michael Parsons on the topic of top dressing and line marking, Bob Paddison from Turf Drain Australia, Weed Technics, Repco, and International Greenkeepers.
Seminar enquiries: Daryl Davidson 0406 942 363 or Damien Curtis on 0475 514 279 or email internationalgreenkeepersfh@gmail.com
Stephen Foster
Nepean Mini Excavations (NME) has been providing excavation and earthmoving services around western Sydney for the better part of seven years, with Managing Director Dale Warwick stating that while the locally owned and operated business started out small, it has since carved out a strong niche for itself in the area.
Dale told EEM he had originally started with a small truck and a mini-excavator, and has steadily built his fleet as the business, which primarily provides excavations for concrete and fibre glass swimming pools, has grown over the years.
Dale, whose experience in earthmoving and excavation stretches back 15 years, said he had long harboured an ambition to start his own business.
“I knew that that’s what I wanted to do,” he commented. “I started working for some old bosses and contacts that I had, and then things really just snowballed from there.
“I bought an additional excavator, and a small posi-track, and then after that I bought another excavator and another posi-track. I now run four trucks, four excavators, two posi-tracks, four mini-dumpers, and every attachment you can think of pretty much.”
Dale told EEM that in addition to pool excavations, NME provides a range of earthmoving services, working on jobs both big and small, with it currently undertaking a sandstone block retaining wall project worth $300,000.
When it comes to his approach to work and ensuring customer satisfaction, he said he prides himself on being a perfectionist, and won’t sign off on a project until it has been completed right down to the smallest detail.
“I am the fussiest human I know, you ask the boys who work for me,” he commented. “If it’s not perfect, it’s not good enough. Every job needs to be done as if I was doing my own backyard at home. If it’s not to that standard, then the job’s not finished.”
Machines that are robust and reliable are needed to both power through jobs efficiently and help maintain high work standards on site, with NME having recently added a couple of C&F Traker T60HT mini-dumpers to its fleet.
Dale described them as being no-frills, wellconstructed machines, which can be relied upon to get the job done.
“They seem to be significantly more robust than the competitors’ machines,” he commented. “Like they’re stronger and should last longer because they look and feel like they are better built, with stronger parts.”
Dale said the main motivation behind the purchase of the T60HTs is his relationship with Sydney Trucks & Machinery (STM), which offers a range of new and used trucks and machinery, along with an extensive inventory of spare parts.
Family-owned-and-operated STM has provided Dale with a range of equipment since he started NME, complemented by after-sales services when required.
“I’ve bought multiple machines and trucks through STM over the last six-and-a-half years,” he said. “Nothing’s ever a problem, and if there is an issue they sort it out. If I need something they make it happen straight away.
“To be perfectly honest, the reason I bought those T60HTs is because STM are close to my area, and I know them and get on with them very well,
and if something goes wrong, they’ll fix it on the spot.”
In addition to this, Dale’s fleet also includes a number of Kobelco excavators, also purchased from STM over the years.
“I love the Kobelcos because their warranty is as good as anybody else’s, and they never, ever question anything, as far as the warranty goes, if something was to go wrong,” he commented.
“I’ve never had anything, any major failures in six-and-a-half years. They’re quieter than most other machines, and they are better on fuel than most other machines, and they’ve got more than adequate power to get the job done.”
Dale told EEM that “business has been fantastic” over the past year, with NME having been kept busy throughout 2021 working on a range of projects, with there being no signs of things slowing down any time soon.
In fact, building on the momentum of the previous 12 months, he noted that 2022 is also shaping up to be a busy one, with around 60 per cent
of NME’s work made up of excavations for concrete and fibre glass swimming pools.
“With COVID and people not being able to go overseas or away on holidays, a lot of people are spending money at home, renovating and putting pools in, so they can swim at home over the summers,” he said.
“The year ahead is also looking like it’s going to be fantastic. Work and the business is going as well as it ever has.”
Designed for construction, landscaping, agriculture and gardening applications, the T60HT has two electric starter engine options (a 6.3 kW Honda GX270 petrol engine, or 4.9 kW Yanmar L70N diesel engine), and can carry loads up to 550 kg.
Weighing in at 510 kg (empty weight), it additionally features:
• Versatile high-tip system – a maximum tipping height of 1.42 m
• Hydrostatic transmission – 4 km/h travel speed, dual lever direction control
• Hydraulic system – three-stage hydraulic power
• Narrow undercarriage for easy site access – The undercarriage is 680mm which allows the mini dumper to operate in tight access operations along with 180mm rubber tracks with tensioner, and three rollers with smooth drive rocking system
• Operator platform – folds out for use
C&F TRAKER T85HT MINI-DUMPER FEATURES
The T85HT can be put to use across heavy duty applications, with it having two electric starter engine options (an 8.7 kW Honda GX390 petrol engine, or 7.4 kW Yanmar L100 diesel engine), and is capable of carrying loads up to 700 kg.
Weighing in at 600 kg (empty weight), it also features:
• Versatile high-tip system – a maximum tipping height of 1.42 m
• Hydrostatic transmission – 5 km/h travel speed, mono-joystick direction control
• Hydraulic system – three-stage hydraulic power
• Narrow undercarriage for easy site access – The undercarriage is 780mm which allows the mini dumper to operate in tight access operations along with 180mm rubber tracks with tensioner, and three rollers with smooth drive rocking system
• Operator platform – folds out for use
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.
Starting, building and reporting on your communications plan is a critical part of any marketing strategy, but many businesses, large and small, forget to take the right steps in order to get the right plan in place for your communications activities.
To get started on your comms plan, there are three main steps to take to set you up for success:
Take some time to sit back and get really clear on what you want to achieve. All of the activities you ultimately build into your plan should work towards achieving that goal. The goal could be to launch a new machine, build brand awareness, advocate for a government change of policy, generate more sales leads etc. It could be quite broad (build brand awareness) – or quite specific (launch X product on X date). But most of all, remember to make your goal SMART– Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Bound.
Complete your due diligence. Gather all the insights and resources you can. In particular you want to be really clear on who your customer is and what you want to communicate to them. It might help to ponder these questions:
• Who is my target audience?
• Who influences my target audience?
• What channels do I have access to?
• What are my competitors doing?
• What communications activities have worked well (or not) in the past?
• What connections, events, expos, field days, sponsorships and other communications related activities can I build on/leverage?
You have to be brave enough to actually own your results. Don’t just put things out there in the world and then forget about them, or worse, hide from any poor results. Right at the start you should be thinking about what success will look like and how you will measure
it when the work is complete – finding clear benchmarks and setting achievable KPIs will set you up for success.
Stuck on pulling together your comms plan? Don’t worry, get in touch with us today and we’ll help you on your communications journey –hello@hc.net.au
Whether you’re digging deep or aiming high improved Castrol RX SUPER has always got your back. Upgraded CJ-4 specification combats soot and gives critical moving parts a tougher protective layer. New DuraShield BoostersTM giving up to 40% better protection against wear*. Improved Castrol RX SUPER - the versatility that always gets the job done.
When Western Australian iron ore miner Fenix Resources was looking to improve efficiency and productivity at its material handling and ship loading facilities, the Cat 982 Next Generation Wheel Loader proved to be a smart investment.
Fenix Resources does things a bit differently to the major iron ore miners in Western Australia.
For one, the company’s Iron Ridge mine is “boutique” compared to other, larger mines. But what Fenix doesn’t have in quantity, it makes up for in quality, with Iron Ridge hosting the second highest grade iron ore resource in Australia. That allows the company to export DSO (direct ship ore) product without significant processing requirements.
Iron Ridge is also one of the only operating mines in the Weld Range, located in the Murchison region or WA’s Midwest. That means transport infrastructure is limited to roads, requiring Fenix Resources to truck its ore 490km to the nearest port at Geraldton, which is managed by the company’s joint venture transport operator, Fenix Newhaul.
Once the ore reaches Geraldton, it is offloaded at Fenix’s dedicated materials handling and port storage shed before being loaded on to ships every 14 to 18 days.
Fenix Resources also helped establish and engage the services of Schwarze Brothers, an indigenous-owned and run materials handling company to manage material handling at the port. The company is run by four brothers, all loader operators, who are members of the Wajarri Yamatji community, Traditional Owners of the Weld Range region in which Fenix operates.
According to Fenix Resources Managing Director Rob Brierley, the ship loading activity becomes quite frantic, with each ship carrying some 60,000 tonnes of ore.
“It’s a continuous cycle of mining and trucking 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Rob says.
“When a ship comes in, we operate continuously over about a two-day period with wheel loaders in our storage shed loading material into hoppers that go out to a series of conveyors and on to the ship.”
Part of Fenix’s commitment to Schwarze Brothers was to supply equipment, with an agreement to transition machine ownership to the fledgling company over a three-year period.
After consultation with WesTrac, which has a regional branch and major workshop in Geraldton, Fenix and Schwarze Brothers settled on the Cat 982 Next Gen Wheel Loader as the model of choice and placed an order for three machines.
While delivery was anticipated to be quick, COVID-led shipping delays resulted in a two-month delay.
“We let WesTrac know about the urgency to deliver the machines and they were as frustrated as us about the delays,” Rob said.
“But they helped us to source hire loaders and did their best to expedite the delivery of our new loaders in as timely a fashion as they could.
“They arrived in November and were put straight to work at the Port.”
According to Schwarze Brothers co-owner and operator Matchum Schwarze, the wait was worthwhile.
“These are the best machines we’ve been in,” Matchum said. “They are easily the smoothest and they’ve got the power we need to get through the work.”
That includes running the three loaders almost consistently for 30 to 40 hours while ships are in port, with the four brothers rotating shifts until loading is complete and potentially running each machine for up to six hours without stopping.
Features on the new Cat 982 are evident across all areas of efficiency, productivity and operator comfort.
“The first thing you notice is the space when you get into the cab,” Matchum said. “And it’s a lovely, smooth ride.”
Joint owner and operator Dwight Schwarze says the auto set tyres function provides a considerable benefit.
“When you enter the pile, the machine automatically provides a lift bucket command in a split second which stops the tyres spinning,” Dwight says. “It keeps the floor clean, helps with the digging and saves the tyres.”
The brothers also say dust ingress into the cab is eliminated, which is an important factor when working inside the shed.
Rob admits that fast loading is one of Fenix Resources’ top priorities and the Cat 982 Next Gen Wheel Loaders, coupled with the Schwarze Brothers’ operational skills, are ensuring that is occurring.
“When a ship comes in, I like to see it leave as soon as possible,” he says. “These guys are really hard workers and their primary objective is to work safely and efficiently, but quickly, so they couldn’t be happier because they get to spend hours and hours in these brand new, exceptionally productive and efficient machines.”
The Cat 982 Next Gen Wheel Loader also incorporates a range of innovative fuel efficiency and safety technologies, while maintenance times and costs are reduced
thanks to extended fluid and filter change intervals, convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centres and the ability for dealers to run remote troubleshooting to help diagnose problems quickly.
Fenix hit a major milestone in November 2021, shipping its one millionth tonne of ore from more than 1.2 million tonnes mined. With an expected mine life of six years, and the iron ore price recovering from recent lows, the Cat 982 Next Gen Wheel Loaders undoubtedly have many hours of hard work ahead.
But neither Fenix Resources nor Schwarze Brothers are concerned, because that’s what these productive, efficient and intuitive machines are built for.
For more information on Cat Next Gen Wheel Loaders, visit westrac.com.au
Owner Grant Marino has been working in the earthmoving and excavation industry for close to 15 years and draws on an involvement with machinery which stretches back to his childhood growing up on a farm.
“I grew up around machinery because my family had a cane farm and a small quarry,” he told EEM. “As a young fella, I helped my father on the farm, then once the farm finished, we started working on the quarry.
“I eventually purchased my first machine. I then onboarded an operator, and we worked together at the quarry and a few subdivisions around Cairns. The quarry came in handy to fill the gaps between jobs, as that’s one of the biggest challenges.”
Locally owned and operated Marino Excavations has grown steadily over the past decade, providing services in and around Cairns in the Far North Queensland region, with it placing a premium not only on the quality of work it undertakes, but also the quality of customer service it provides.
In the years since, Marino has expanded its capabilities in line with its growing fleet. Grant said the business has been focused on developing its operations across the board, with it now overseeing 10 excavators, with nine operators, along with a team of administration and service employees.
Looking back, Grant noted that while Marino’s first few years were steady, with the business initially building a name for itself in the region, he had subsequently “picked up things quickly, both on the machine and the managing side”.
“In 2016 I purchased my first Volvo excavator from CJD Equipment,” he said. “It was a new ECR235CL, fitted with a 3D Trimble GPS system. It was and still is a beauty, and it’s still going strong today.
“The following year business picked up, and I purchased another one. However, this time I requested the latest GPS system from Trimble. I was the first to buy the new Trimble Earthworks GPS system in Australia.”
Having in short time added two very advanced Volvo excavators, decked out with the latest technologies, to his fleet, Grant told EEM , “from there, things took off”.
“We currently offer plant hire with a fleet including subcontractors,” he said. “We can source most plant for any sized construction project in Far North Queensland.”
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND QUALITY EQUIPMENT BOLSTER SERVICE OFFERING
Grant, who is a fourth generation Cairns local, said Marino stands out in the market due to its local knowledge and reliability, complemented by skilled operators, friendly service and
management, and consistent safety records.
In addition to this, he pointed to the quality equipment that makes up the Marino fleet, which has been strategically fitted with the latest technologies, with its machines kept in top operating condition at all times.
Grant said the business is “constantly evolving and creating relationships with new clients”, with it supplying plant to the Cairns Regional Council and various civil contractors, and currently undertaking a number of different projects.
“One of the projects we are working on is the Edmonton to Gordonvale project (E2G),” he said. “E2G is a $480 million highway project, run by a tier one contractor.
The most spent on infrastructure in Cairns to date.
“We are the primary plant supplier to the HSA Group, a John Holland, Seymour Whyte and AECOM joint venture. We currently have over 30 machines on this project, including subcontractors consisting of excavators, trucks, water carts, loaders and floats.”
He said Marino has also set about forging strong connections with local businesses – including mobile crushing business Nitro Crushing and heavy machinery hire operator FLGT, both of which he has family connections with – adding another element to the scope of its operations.
Marino has recently added a Volvo EC250EDA excavator, which it has paired with Volvo’s Dig Assist machine control system, to its fleet, with Grant stating that Volvo excavators deliver a range of benefits.
“Apart from being a very sleek machine, the smoothness of operation with the Volvo excavators is the best out there,” he said. “For a final trim machine, Volvo is the first machine I look at for this reason alone. Coming standard with proportional tilt makes trimming a breeze.
“Then usually a GPS system is required for our type of work, however sometimes you are not sure what brand of system the project will be using. Volvo has the best solution for this, where you can install multiple systems on the Volvo platform.
By way of example, Grant noted a Trimble or Topcon system, or other supported brands, can be installed, allowing for the changing of brands if required, while he also pointed to the convenience of having built-in GPS receivers, meaning operators don’t need to take them home to prevent theft.
Grant said the EC250EDA has been a great machine so far. “It has been performing a lot of detailed excavation and bulk earthworks with an oversized bucket. It has shifted some serous dirt with minimal change in fuel efficiency. The versatility of this machine has been great. It’s a good all-rounder!”
Dig Assist, which is powered via Volvo’s interactive 10-inch high-definition touchscreen Co-Pilot in-cab tablet, incorporates sensors and GPS technology to assist operators, enabling efficient and effective excavation.
Grant told EEM that Dig Assist can be harnessed to assist with a range of applications, helping to speed up operations.
“Having Dig Assist the operator can quickly create basic designs from within the cab,” he said. “You can set grades, slopes and lines, which comes in handy as you don’t have to get out of the machine to check levels or have someone on the jigger.”
He observed that running off a design file provided by the client offers even greater convenience, with operators simply needing to have the right application installed, load the file and dig to design.
In addition to this, Grant noted that Dig Assist helps get the right weight on trucks via
its On-Board Weighing feature, which gives a precise reading of each bucket weight, providing productivity benefits.
He also pointed to its range of safety features, giving “great reassurance knowing your operators are in an extremely safe machine”.
CJD EQUIPMENT AT THE READY TO HELP WHEN REQUIRED In the years since the purchase of his first Volvo excavator, Grant said CJD has “always shown their support and followed up on how the machine is running”.
“They have maintained a good relationship with Marino over the last six years,” he commented. “I never hesitate to call them if I am thinking of purchasing a new machine and need to run through some scenarios.”
Jarrad Bennett, CJD Regional Sales Manager North Queensland, told EEM that Grant’s recent purchase of the EC250EDA provides him “the ability to future-proof himself with the latest technology and highest fuel efficiency, productivity and emissions standards”.
Jarrad said he has been servicing Marino for close to three years, with open communication underpinning his relationship with Grant.
“Grant is a great guy and a straight shooter, well respected in the region, and runs a good business,” he commented.
“Grant knows what he needs in a machine, and the communication has always been great, we can call a spade a spade and get to the core of his requirements. When we do have an issue, we get it solved, and can talk about innovation and what works and what can be improved.”
Jarrad said that it has been a very busy period over the last 12 months, with CJD on hand to deliver support for growing businesses in the region, while looking ahead more of the same is on the cards for 2022.
“Business has been very busy, our customers are flat out with a range of local and ongoing projects, and it’s been great growing with them and helping to provide the best, most productive and latest in earthmoving solutions,” he commented.
“We are expecting another big year in 2022, with infrastructure, quarrying and civil all big parts of the Far North Queensland growth.”
Grant noted that while the last couple of years have certainly been eventful for Marino, the business has “made it through bigger and better than when we started”.
“The last couple of years have been exceptionally challenging,” he said. “Scoring
a primary role on a tier one project, upscaling with employees and plant, then throwing a pandemic and construction boom in the mix.
“Navigating these challenges has ultimately been very rewarding, and Marino is now well positioned moving forward into 2022 and beyond. I am very proud of where Marino is and excited about where it is heading.”
The Volvo EC250E weighs in at 26.46 t (operating weight) and runs a Stage V 159 kW Volvo D8J diesel engine, designed to provide high productivity and low fuel consumption.
It sports a boom length of 6 m and an arm length of 2.97 m, with a maximum dig depth of 7.06 m and a maximum reach at ground level of 10.16 m. Its features include:
• Fuel efficiency – ECO mode is designed to optimise the hydraulic system, reducing flow and pressure losses, providing improved fuel efficiency without any loss of performance in most operating conditions
• Productivity – the V-ACT system sees the engine and pumps matched to optimise performance, while high pump flow combined with the electro-hydraulic control system creates a faster response and cycle time
• Operator convenience – an ergonomic design includes an optimally positioned keypad, allowing the operator to easily navigate through the 8-inch non-glare colour LCD monitor and activate machine functions
• Robust design – a robust, reinforced structure and high-quality welding is designed to deliver durability, including reinforced bucket linkage, and an undercarriage with a reinforced idler frame, track links and bottom rollers built to withstand tougher conditions
• Maintenance – large, wide-opening compartment doors and grouped service points have been designed for easy maintenance
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.
Border Constructions kicked off back in 2003, and some eight years ago, Paul decided to step away from his existing brand of excavator and purchase Border Constructions’ first Kobelco machine, a SK260LC. It was the reliability, stability, durability, and efficiency that led Paul to the decision to make this first Kobelco purchase. Considering that first Kobelco purchase is still an important part of the Border Constructions fleet, eight years on and with
15,000 hours, you can see why the Kobelco
became and remain a valued and significant part of Paul’s operation.
Paul shared, “My day-to-day role involves allocating work, machine maintenance, and operating plant on a full-time basis. My company has worked on major subdivisions in Southeast Queensland and the Northern Rivers NSW, including the major highways and
from the NSW, Queensland border
through to Coffs Harbour. Since purchasing our first Kobelco and experiencing the amazing run we have had over the past eight years, we have now purchased another four excavators from BrisVegas Machinery thus far, including a SK235 zero swing, a SK300LC, which I’ve just updated to a new SK300LC and currently awaiting a 5-ton machine.”
As Paul himself also spends considerable time in his Kobelcos, as well as running the business, he well and truly understands and appreciates
the benefits for both operators and business owners. The improved performance, power, durability, and efficiencies (not forgetting about the operator comfort) of the Kobelco range were what first attracted Paul to the Kobelco brand. It has been the continued improvements in all areas that have kept him so happy with Kobelco machines. His most recent purchase, the SK300LC is the perfect example of why businesses like Border Constructions are so enthusiastic with Kobelco machines. “Our new SK300LC is the perfect combination of increased power and higher efficiencies.
This allows our operators to be more productive each day with lower running costs. The SK300LC shows what is possible from an excavator as the evolution of technologies continues, with more power and improved fuel efficiencies. From the three-mode operation settings, which includes H-Mode (for max power and productivity), to S-Mode (for a more balanced delivery of productivity and fuel efficiency), to ECO-Mode (for minimum
fuel consumption for utility projects and other precise works.),” commented Paul.
The SK300LC also benefits from a newly designed boom with an increased boom foot cross section for improved durability against tensile stress. It is these types of improvements that are happening all around the machine, which are adding up to such an impressive work horse.
The hydraulic system is highly efficient, maximising power while minimising fuel consumption. With nimble movement, ample digging power and top-class excavating reach, it is no wonder teams like Paul’s achieve great results with their Kobelco fleet.
When I asked Paul about reliability of the Kobelcos, he shared, “I’m actually struggling to think back to a time when we had a breakdown or issue with any of the Kobelcos. In all seriousness they have been amazingly reliable and our operators, including myself, love operating them. The cabs are spacious, well laid out and very comfortable. Being in a hot climate, air conditioning is very important
for operator comfort, and it works extremely well and effectively. The new SK300LC is operator friendly. From the air ride seat to the new controls, which require 38 per cent less effort to use, and the quick hitch hydraulic line speeds up attachment changes and fitted
as standard, there are so many great features that add up to make this an awesome purchase. Another reason we purchase Kobelco is because of the excellent relationship we have cemented with the BrisVegas Machinery team over the last eight years.”
The BrisVegas Machinery team have obviously taken great care of Paul over the years because he could not speak highly enough of the service he has received. “Over the eight years of buying machines from our local Kobelco Dealer, BrisVegas Machinery, I cannot fault them. They have always been extremely helpful in both advising us about what will work best for our daily needs, as well as problem solving any issues and servicing requirements of our machines. I’ve purchased two excavators from Matt Thorne since he took over sales in my region and he is very professional in his approach and knows his product well. He made the experience effortless when purchasing our new Kobelco. My operators find the Kobelco machines a pleasure to operate with smooth hydraulics and amazing digging power. As a business owner and director, positive feedback from the team is massive, especially when working around underground services,” said Paul.
Matt Thorne is the National Sales Manager for Melbourne Tractors and BrisVegas Machinery and has over 19 years under his belt with the Melbourne Tractors Group. Matt shared,
“It’s been a pleasure to have the opportunity to work closely with Paul and his team over the last two years. Purchasing the right machine with the required technologies is integral to every business, but even more essential for smaller teams like Paul’s. Communication and education about new features and technologies is a substantial part of my role.”
Reliability is at the heart of every small business and the confidence that Paul has built over the years in both the Kobelco brand and BrisVegas Machinery is refreshing to see. Paul shared, “I’ve found the Kobelco product to be bulletproof, with class leading fuel efficiency, and great product support from BrisVegas Machinery. When
I’ve purchased plant from them, they were very flexible and accommodating in all areas, especially when installing the GPS systems in their workshop. All our Kobelcos are equipped with Leica GPS machine control for accurate and efficient production work, which is an important part of our detailed earthworks and drainage works.”
Combining
Imagine a machine so advanced for its time that some 20 years on the majority of its well spec’d list of features still reside (albeit profoundly advanced and modified) in its 2020 version –welcome the Cat® 259 D3 Compact Track Loader and Cat® 246D3 Skid Steer. If that fact alone doesn’t showcase Caterpillar’s ability to innovate and pioneer as an industry leader, then I don’t know what does.
When it comes to bringing innovations to the market that become widely used in machines and integrated into workflows within worksites around the globe, Caterpillar has clearly decided to innovate where many others have simply followed.
Caterpillar was amongst the first manufacturers to use 100 per cent pilot hydraulic controls in the industry, to remove foot-pedal bucket controls by introducing the foot throttle (accelerator) control saving fuel and engine wear. Together with pilot hydraulic control, Caterpillar also introduced the now-common stick-steer system using left-hand joystick to drive and right-hand joystick to operate loader functions, and to introduce self-levelling on the loader circuit and proportional hydraulic control for attachments.
The more I think about it, the more impressive the last 20 years of Caterpillar innovation becomes with features including: Bucket Float Function, High Flow XPS, Independent Track Suspension, Creep Control – the list goes on. But rather than turning this into a history lesson,
let’s delve in and take a good look at the pinnacle of where this sector now stands with the Cat® 259 D3 Compact Track Loader and Cat® 246D3 Skid Steer
Looking at these two machines stand side by side is an impressive sight with both sporting the new Cat styled logo branding. Being a ‘compact track loader man’ for most of my career, the Cat 259D3 was my first choice to
test. In the pool installation and landscaping game, this machine would be precisely what I would be looking to purchase if I was in the market right now. However, after spending the day in the 246D3 and 259D3, both machines have their distinct advantages, along with the common features and technologies that make them user-friendly, powerful and very well spec’d up machines.
After closing the door behind me I felt instantly relaxed and comfortable as I settled into the seat. The entry was broader than usual and the wide positioning of the controls gave me an extra 75mm or so of width and legroom, which provided more room for comfort and positioning.
The Cat 259D3 is by no means a noisy machine to operate, but after closing the door of the industry-leading one-piece sealed and pressurised Cab it was apparent there have been advancements in this area. As the Brissie temps pushed 35 degrees outside and the machine at times disappeared into plumes of dust, the 259D3’s cab was a quieter experience than other machines I’ve operated, with a cleaner design and excellent visibility.
The air ride seat was a joy, with high back (lumber support) and adjustable joystick controls to ensure you have everything exactly where you need them to ensure optimum output and comfort over a day’s work.
We had a few tests in place to investigate the ride quality of the 259D3. The first was a series of sleepers laid out on the ground that I drove over the top of with a full bucket while increasing speed to test out the suspended undercarriage system, which provided superior traction, floatation, stability and speed in a wide range of options. Driving over sleepers at speed like this wouldn’t be something I would do in my machine, but I was impressed with the results. I wouldn’t call it a smooth experience, but I wasn’t being thrown into the sides of the cab like I would have been in a competitor machine.
Over the day I used the 4 in 1 bucket and the slasher on the 259D3, which were both a joy to use. The machine’s ground speed, comfort, precision controls, high-performance powertrain, high flow torque, and intelligent levelling systems all combined to produce an absolute workhorse. I would personally love to introduce the 259D3 to my landscaping and pool installation company because the benefits in production turnaround and efficiencies it would add would be huge.
Almost all of the features and intelligent systems I just mentioned in the 259D3 also carry over to the Cat 246D3 Skid Steer Loader.
The main difference is the change from tracks to wheels and the changeover to a radial lift design, which delivers impressive mid-lift reach and excellent digging performance with outstanding drawbar power.
For our test I started again with a 4 in 1 bucket and then moved over to forks and carted around a pile of hardwood timbers. I decided to dial down the hydraulic flow and speed just a little, which was very quick and easy. The ability to customise almost all elements of the machine is an excellent set of features, which can be made in seconds.
When working with repetitive levels being used to dig and drop material into trucks etc., the Cat Intelligent Levelling system will enable you to set features like dual-direction self-level, work tool return to dig, and work tool positioner, all of which further increase productivities and worked exceptionally well.
The D3 loaders bring refinements that will further improve quality, comfort and reliability, but later this year there will be even more substantial innovations, which will become the holy grail of work tool controllability with the introduction of Smart Attachments. Caterpillar are introducing three Smart Attachments available from the end of 2020, all of which will be plug and play and fully operational
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from the D3’s controls. The backhoe, grader and dozer blade will be substantial and impressive additions to further add to the full range of opportunity that exists with the two machines.
The three new Smart Attachments are going to be a game changer that will have a positive effect on a huge number of operators out there.
Both the the Cat 259D3 and Cat 246D3 are top-shelf machines, which will be a welcomed addition into any outfit. The ground level servicing and maintenance are standout features with access to the engine compartment at a perfect waist/chest height and a folding one-piece cab that only needs two bolts to be undone to access all hydraulic lines in minutes.
If you’re in the market for a tracked loader or skid steer, call your local Cat dealer to arrange a demo – as impressive as the machines are on paper, it’s sitting in the cab putting in the hours where they come to life.
WHAT’S COMING DOWN THE TRACK?
Caterpillar will be releasing two exciting upgrades to its D3 range toward the end of 2022 that existing and new owners will be able to take advantage of. The new SMART creep function that allows users of cold planers or wheel saws to automatically adjust the machine’s drive speed to achieve optimum performance and the extension of Cat command remote drive systems to connect with the D3 range of compact loaders.
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Introducing
Featuring 10% more horsepower than its predecessor, the ASV RT-120, the all-new RT-135 gives operators the ability to maintain best-in-class machine performance while operating high-flow attachments. That maximum power is paired with a premium operator experience, as the completely upgraded loader is part of the new MAX-Series lineup, with all the line’s superior comfort and ease-of-use features ASV operators have come to know and appreciate over the years.
In addition, an optional Forestry variant of the RT-135 is outfitted with forestry-rated guarding and safety features, and is ideal for brush cutting, mulching, land clearing and other high-flow applications.
ASV held nothing back when designing the RT-135 and RT-135F models. A Cummins engine boasts an industry-leading 132 horsepower which, combined with an enormous 189 LPM maximum auxiliary flow — also the industry’s highest — allows the RT-135 to transfer more engine power to the attachment with no sacrifices to machine performance.
Furthermore, extra oil is reserved by the pump to ensure that operators can run high-flow attachments, such as mulchers, at full speed while moving the loader and without slowing down the tool. That directly translates to more productivity from your machine.
The RT-135’s 196 litre fuel tank – 83 litres larger than its predecessor, the RT-120 –ensures minimal downtime for refuelling and therefore maximised profitability.
In addition, the RT-135 Forestry has significantly boosted the tipping load capacity
to 5379kg – up from the 4853kg offered by the RT-120 – ensuring that even the heaviest loads are handled with ease all operating at a top speed of 16km/hr.
The RT-135 brings the hallmark MAX-Series benefits to provide the best possible operator experience. The new machine features the lineup’s premium 360-degree visibility for unmatched workspace awareness, plus standard LED lighting, optional side lighting and new taillights make it even easier to see around the outside of the machine in lowlight conditions – making the visibility from the cab absolutely unrivalled.
The RT-135 also includes all the comforts of the MAX-Series as standard: a more spacious cab accessible to virtually all body types, a one-sided lap bar making exit and entry easier, and the industry’s most customisable seat and arm rests. Additionally, dusty, debrisridden forestry work is cleaner, quieter and more temperature stable with the RT-135’s pressurised all-weather cab.
In addition, the state-of-the-art 7-inch touchscreen display provides vital monitoring tools, displays the view from the backup camera, and integrates with service history and schedules. It also allows for service scheduling, job management, passcode operator lockout, idle time tracking and more. The in-cab experience is also enhanced through Bluetooth radio allowing operators to listen to music and take calls wirelessly.
Intuitive operator controls benefit operators of all skill levels and a dual throttle option – a standard MAX-Series feature – which allows operation at a set RPM with the joystick controls and the ability to increase the RPM with the foot throttle without the need to adjust the dial.
Operators can match the RT-135 to their skill level and needs with advanced operator control customisation. An upgraded drive control
system provides smoother, more responsive controls that can be adjusted to speed modes matching the operator’s experience level and preference. Operators can further optimise the machine for their attachment with adjustable high flow and flow sharing options.
With safety at the forefront of the RT-135’s design, particular attention was paid to ensuring the RT-135 Forestry variant was built more than durable enough to withstand even the most challenging vegetation management tasks.
ASV built the frameless door with 3/4-inch polycarbonate with enough strength to allow the elimination of the cross beam; improving visibility compared to the RT-120F. The rugged side panels are manufactured with 1/2-inch polycarbonate, and a limb riser is also built in for additional guarding. Because of the reinforced cab and high-strength polycarbonate, the RT-135F is the only compact track loader in the industry to meet level 2 safety standards, the same as dedicated forestry equipment. These include operator protective structure, impact, falling object, and rollover ISO standards.
In addition, the inclusion of a roof escape hatch on both the RT-135 and RT-135F models helps to improve operator safety in emergency situations. In fact, ASV is the only manufacturer to include an escape hatch on its compact track loaders and skid steers.
ASV custom-built the RT-135 and RT-135F for the most demanding construction, earthmoving, agriculture and forestry work.
On the RT-135F in particular, guarding around the light and radiator improves durability, and the hood is now built from heavy-gauge steel, offering maximum protection to the engine area.
Debris has fewer places to penetrate the RT-135’s tough exterior, thanks to a fuel tank that intersects with the cab for a tighter seal.
ASV designed the entire RT-135 to reduce debris ingestion, manufacturing the machine with limited openings and foam seals blocking exposed areas for a cleaner undercarriage and engine compartment. In addition, sealed fuse panels keep vital components clean and dry. Operator maintenance is made easier with convenient access features on both models. A swing-out door and cooling system provides open access to filters and other daily checkpoints. In addition, a larger top hood with a flat screened opening improves over the previous ribbed design, plus prop rods on the hoods and hinge-up air conditioning condenser, allow simple cleaning. Tilting belly pans below the machine ensures that clearing out debris is an easy task compared to alternative manufacturer designs that either don’t include belly pans or include ones that are difficult to clean.
The RT-135’s undercarriage is upgraded for maximum performance under the additional weight compared to the RT-120. Redesigned torsion axles are 20% stronger than their predecessors, bearing the weight of the machine while allowing the track to flex over obstacles and reduce impact to the operator and attachment. Furthermore, heavy duty reinforced wheel hubs and bearings enhance durability.
Whilst stronger and more durable, the RT-135 undercarriage also retains the patented benefits shared with its smaller siblings in the ASV Posi-Track range. The RT-135’s dedicated frame includes 381mm of ground clearance, allowing it to travel over obstacles with less risk of getting caught. ASV’s Posi-Track system also features a flexible track and an open-rail and internal positive drive-sprocket undercarriage, allowing for more traction, longer wear life and faster, and more convenient cleaning. Furthermore, a large number of ground contact points combine with 508mm-wide tracks, to spread the machine’s weight for a notably low 4.6 psi overall ground pressure – this allows more flotation and traction on steep, slippery and wet ground, plus enhanced control and remarkable pushing capabilities. The wide, flexible track also maintains more contact with the ground than other designs, helping to virtually eliminate the risk of track derailment.
ASV also stands behind the reliability of its entire range of Posi-Track loaders, with an industry leading 2-year, 2000-hour warranty, including the industry’s first and only no-derailment guarantee.
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.
Heavy equipment sales and service specialist Semco Group has recently added the Takeuchi TL8R-2 compact track loader to its line-up, with the redesigned radial lift loader, which replaces the outgoing TL8, sporting a range of features designed to deliver premium performance, power, efficiency and durability.
With the cab model weighing in at an operating weight of 4165 kg (and the canopy option 3995 kg), the TL8R-2 runs a 54.6 kW Kubota engine, and Takeuchi describes it as small enough to get into tight areas and light enough for easy transport.
Along with manoeuvrability, the Japanese manufacturer points to its powerful performance capabilities, with the TL8R-2, which has a tipping load of 2740 kg, at the ready to tackle a range of applications.
In addition to this, operator comfort is a standout feature of the TL8R-2’s design, with the loader incorporating a spacious cabin, and equipped with an accessible control layout, paving the way for convenient and efficient operations.
Meanwhile, optional creep mode enables operators to precisely match the forward speed of the TL8R-2 to a particular attachment without having to constantly meter the travel lever, with Takeuchi stating it is ideal for attachments requiring a consistent, repeatable travel speed, such as a cold planer or trencher.
The TL8R-2’s 54.6 kW turbocharged engine is EU Stage V/EPA Final Tier 4 emissions compliant, with a diesel oxidation catalyst and diesel particulate filter integrated to minimise emissions for clean and efficient operation.
In addition to this, it features:
• Heavy lifting – improved lift arm force (lift arm breakout force of 26.5 kN; bucket breakout force of 27.6 kN)
• Hydraulic flow – is adjusted from the operator’s seat, while attachment settings can be stored in the TL8R-2’s new monitor, with multiple work modes available (high-flow hydraulics are an optional extra for attachments such as road profilers and forest mulchers)
• Powerful drives – double reduction planetary drives are designed to deliver exceptional pushing power and manoeuvrability, while the standard two-speed travel allows for increased travel speeds (low: 7.5 km/h, high: 11.2 km/h)
• Powerful tractive force – allows the machine to perform across demanding applications (tractive force of 43.3 kN)
The TL8R-2 features an automotive-styled operator’s station, integrating a 5.7-inch multi-informational LCD colour display, with a rear-view camera and a sealed rocker switch bank, designed to deliver the operator a wider range of operational information. The operator’s station also features:
• Machine data – the display features coolant temperature and fuel gauges, with new icons including work modes, engine fault, bucket float and hydraulic mode
• Pilot joystick controls – which are low effort and designed to respond immediately to operator input for greater control and performance
• Deluxe high-back suspension seat – comes as standard equipment, featuring several adjustments, including three height settings
• Cab model – is pressurised, contributing to a clean, comfortable work environment, with it also including a roll-up door that can be opened regardless of the loader arm position, and which can be secured overhead during operation
When it comes to durability, the TL8R-2, which is equipped with an OPG level 2 roof guard, is decked out with a number of features designed to keep it powering on through in tough
conditions, and ultimately enable operators to get on with the job at hand with confidence.
The TL8R-2 is equipped with:
• Robust front idler rollers – featuring larger bearings for slower shaft speeds, extending component life
• Heavy duty rear door – built to protect the radiator and oil cooler from rear impacts, designed to provide years of service and dependability
• Industrial-sized side-by-side radiator and oil cooler – providing efficient cooling performance for greater component life
• Reduced shock – cushioning on the arm cylinders reduces shock, and protected cylinders and steel lines are designed to improve longevity
• Purpose-built frame – features multiple cross members for greater strength and rigidity
• Quiet ride track – rollers ride on a rubber contact pad for reduced vibration and a quieter ride, with a wide block tread improving flotation
Serviceability is another strong focus of the TL8R-2’s design, with the heavy-duty rear door swinging out to provide access to the side-by-side cooling module with coolant sight glass, engine oil filter, engine oil fill and dipstick, fuel/water separator and dual element air cleaner.
Serviceability features include:
• Opening up – a tilt-back operator’s station and large removable belly pans allow for easy routine maintenance
• Clean air – the double air filters are mounted on a tilt-up platform for easy service
• Security – the heavy-duty rear door and top hood can be locked from a single point using the same key as the ignition, providing for extra security when leaving the TL8R-2 on a job site
• Left tower access panel – provides access to the hydraulic tank and filter, while the oil level is quickly checked using the easy-to-view sight gauge
Ditch Witch CEA boasts the most comprehensive line up of directional drills, HDD tooling, vacuum excavators, trenchers, vibratory ploughs and more available on the market. With impetus on power, the Ditch Witch range is curated to withstand extreme use.
Construction Equipment Australia (CEA) supplies equipment to many industries from construction, through to agriculture, to waste management. All machines are developed for their grunt, versatility, and ergonomics, backed by more than 70 years of expertise.
Ditch Witch CEA have made significant investments in aftersales support for these products – including; factory trained technicians and parts availability at each branch, and will also offer local HDD guidance and utility locator servicing for their Subsite Electronics products. In addition, CEA will also offer operator training via their Virtual Reality Simulator, based on these new HDD models – as these are all important factors in the aftersales support in the drill market.
This year, Ditch Witch introduces a new product to the Australian market, featuring greater stability, higher horsepower, and more advanced electronics.
AT32
The newest in the all-terrain directional drill line-up, the AT32 is equipped with a Cummins Diesel engine with 155 horsepower, offering the highest horsepower in its class. Packed with 32,000 lb of thrust and pullback, the AT32 provides power for efficient installation through tough soils – even hard rock won’t slow it down.
The new look AT32 replaces the outgoing AT30 model, offering significantly more power and efficiency advancements, in a similar footprint – and shares a common platform with existing next generation models in the Ditch
Witch line-up (new climate controlled quiet cabin, increased power, thrust and torque, as well as more onboard pipe and a higher flow fluid pump). There are also many design and technological advancements which offer efficiency gains while drilling, while retaining the proven reliability Ditch Witch is known for.
The AT32 perfectly balances size and power, packing high performance into a sleek, streamline hull. Whether towing, mobilising or drilling, the compact footprint allows operators to manoeuvre metropolitan job sites with ease and confidence. Complete job site set-up can also now be completed with the advanced wireless remote.
A heavy-duty anchor system holds operation position for more precise control in all soil conditions. Latest iteration in the all-terrain evolution also features 4200 ft lbs of rotational torque to unearth new levels of performance.
The operator-focused design features a fully retractable, climate-controlled cab, a heated seat and increased leg room.
The ergonomic station is designed specifically with HDD operators at the fore, with adjustable suspension and two 7” LED colour screens for better visibility to all machine functions.
As well as including 29% more onboard pipe, the AT32 also allows operators the option to manually add pipe when low to improve productivity and keep the job running. The Ditch Witch HDD system includes: HDD tooling complete with a full line of drill bits, HD backreamers, drill pipe and beacon housings; Subsite Electronics HDD Guidance systems for a clear plan, more control and faster reporting; vacuum excavators; and training to keep crews confident and efficient.
Ditch Witch CEA will unveil the AT32 at No-Dig Down Under Exhibition in March 2022 in Sydney, with units available for order soon thereafter. You can contact your local Ditch Witch CEA branch on 1300 788 757 for more information.
For more information go to www.ditchwitchcea.com.au
Designed for small-scale landscape and irrigation jobs, the Ditch Witch range of mini skid steers have a narrow frame for better maneuverability in tight, compact spaces. Built for heavy-duty operation, the construction-grade design improves machine durability and longevity and overall machine ROI.
UHI Machinery has hit the ground running in 2022, with the small machinery specialist remaining strongly focused on bringing value to the local market courtesy of its premium-quality product portfolio, packed with top-of-the-line models designed to get the job done in all commercial scenarios.
Among its line-up, UHI has bolstered its skid steer offerings in recent times, with both its US40K and US50K skid steer loaders primed to tackle a range of professional applications, providing operators muscle and versatility in equal measures.
Manufactured by top-tier manufacturers, these skid steer loaders arrive to market with an exceptional pedigree, incorporating a compelling selection of high-quality components, expertly harnessed to produce a quality comparable to other big brands.
While they might be relatively new to the Australian market, there is a good reason as to why these machines have sold thousands of units worldwide, with operators in international markets tapping into their productivity benefits.
Both these skid steer loaders, which are designed for full commercial use, are currently available at eye-catching introductory prices.
US40K: A TOP-DRAWER, TOUGH SKID STEER LOADER
UHI introduced the US40K skid steer loader to its line-up in 2021, with it a powerful, productive and efficient machine at the ready to let loose on job sites, and also capable of delivering operators ample flexibility in undertaking a variety of different tasks.
Among its impressive array of features, the US40K sports a substantial rated load capacity, which comes in handy when undertaking a range of agricultural, farming, nursery and construction commercial projects.
In addition to this, it runs a powerful Xinchai engine, which provides more than enough grunt to efficiently and effectively power on through when the going gets tough across a diverse range of conditions and applications.
US50K: A VERSATILE SKID STEER LOADER PACKING PLENTY OF POWER
UHI’s US50K skid steer loader is a top-notch performer designed to get the job done in carrying out a range of commercial applications, making it a valuable unit to have on hand when undertaking demanding projects.
The US50K features a larger rated load capacity than the US40K, and is a convenient
option for projects where a bit more bulk is required, including various types of construction and agricultural operations.
The US50K also notably runs a premium Yanmar engine, providing operators plenty of grunt to play with, while a range of top-quality components combine to deliver a smooth overall operating experience.
Complementing its evolving product portfolio, UHI is focused on providing supportive customer service across the initial sales and machinery selection process, purchase of machinery and after-sales support, ensuring customers gain ongoing value from their equipment.
UHI also offers a number of finance options, encompassing a weekly payment plan, which are effectively designed to help customers quickly get equipment up and running in the field.
In addition to this, UHI’s machines come with a two-year/2000-hour warranty nationwide, providing customers additional peace of mind, with the first year providing a full labour and parts warranty and the second year a power train labour and parts warranty.
UHI dealerships are located across Australia – in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Townsville – serving the small machinery needs of its growing customer base, with it providing both in-store pick-up and nationwide delivery.
MD Industries director and project manager, Matt De Bono, started his electrical trade 20 years ago and self-started his current business, which he describes as “Multidisciplinary,” 15 years ago.
“We are mainly electrical contractors, but we cover a lot of fields and also do project work, providing entire customer solutions such as demolition, fit-outs, a whole range of works,” said Mr De Bono. “Because we cover so many areas, we can wrap it up as a package: do all the excavations, trenching, footings, the civil works, concreting, and of course the electrical side of things. We also provide 24-hour everyday quick response.
“At the moment we’re focused on building a network of electric car-charging stations throughout New South Wales. When it’s complete, and it’s due for completion by June 2021, you’ll be able to find one every 150km, all the way to the state borders.”
Given the regional nature of the network, MD Industries faced logistical challenges in terms of transporting a 2.5 tonne excavator to job sites, as Mr De Bono explained: “We go to some pretty far-flung places and it was just too big, heavy and expensive for towing. We were hiring excavators in rural areas but the further we went; it was getting harder and harder to find machines. We were travelling an hour just to get a machine and then an hour back.”
The business needed something lighter and smaller, yet still powerful.
As a long-time satisfied Toyota Huski skid steer loader user, Mr De Bono said his experiences with the 5SDK5 influenced his decision to buy the M-16U Huski mini excavator.
“When we started out, we didn’t have a skid steer loader. But as the business grew, we realised we needed those wide-ranging capabilities that the Huski 5SDK5 provides.
“It has helped us perform duties more efficiently. The Huski skid steer loader definitely makes life a lot easier for us and it’s fair to say that it has helped our business grow.
“Likewise, our business growth and the size of our recent electric car-charging station commitments really spurred the decision to get our new Huski mini excavator, making it quicker and easier to finish our projects.”
A key feature of the M-16U Huski mini excavator is its exceptional power. Mr De Bono considered buying the smallest mini excavator in the Huski range but liaison with Huski Construction Equipment area sales manager – Construction, Peter Bower, revealed the business could choose a highertonnage machine without compromising its transport requirements.
“We needed a smaller machine but one that could also meet our needs in terms of power.
“We looked at the smallest one in the range but after speaking with Peter we realised we could go up in size in order to allow for it doing that bit more, without it affecting our transport.
“The new 1.6 tonne Huski is in a different class to our larger machine but for the size of it, it is very powerful and more so than the 1.6-tonne equivalent from another brand. It performs very well, having excellent break-out force for its size.”
MD Industries also favours Toyota passenger vehicles. Mr De Bono said Toyota reliability is a continuing reason for it to choose the brand.
“We also have a HiLux ute which has proven very reliable,” he said. “With the lower weight and compact size of the Huski mini excavator, we can use the HiLux to tow the new Huski
digger on a trailer, so that lets us get around without having to worry about trucks.”
Mr De Bono optioned the M-16U Huski mini excavator with a quick hitch for attachments, which he said, “Is handy”, adding that “the zero tail-swing is also a nice feature.”
MD Industries hasn’t had its new Huski mini excavator for long, yet first impressions are positive. “The Huski mini excavator definitely feels smooth to operate,” said Mr De Bono. “And it’s going to give us access to tighter sites because of the smaller size.
“As we expand, we will be adding more Huski and Toyota equipment to our fleet – most likely a forklift. We use the Huski skid steer loader like a forklift but obviously it doesn’t have the same full functionality.”
He said dealing with Toyota Material Handling Australia service technicians and sales managers has been another reason to stick with the brand. “Our relationship with TMHA has been excellent and is a part of the reason we went with the Huski mini excavator as opposed to other brands.
“The major factor, though, was the performance of our Huski skid steer loader. It made the decision simple.”
For more information freecall 1800 425 438 or visit huskiconstructionequipment.com.au
The Caterpillar range of Cat® B Model Hammers has been designed to deliver when it comes to durability and reliability, sporting a modern design which incorporates 30-40% fewer parts than previous models, meaning less chance of unscheduled repairs while also providing premium performance.
The low-maintenance Cat® B Model Hammers are compatible across the Cat range of Cat hydraulic excavators (1-10 t), skid steers, compact track loaders. These hammers are performance-matched to Cat machines, paving the way for operators to confidently tackle different applications.
This means the B model hammers deliver substantial operational benefits, as they are configured to deliver an efficient and effective balance between hammer power and productivity.
The B-series spans five separate hammer options, decked out for use with a range of carrier weights, with the choice of silenced and non-silienced models.
Caterpillar advises that the B model flat top/ top-mount style is suitable for all kinds of brackets and machine kinematics, while a large top buffer reduces recoil force to the machine.
The B model silenced models, which sport a single-piece outer cover, are fully enclosed with urethane and nylon isolation mounts, designed to provide maximum sound reduction, with the mounts maintenance free, lasting the life of the hammer.
In addition to this, B model features include:
• Gas-fired design – configured to make it easy to both maintain (with minimal parts) and recharge the hammers
• Ergonomically positioned hydraulic lines –optimising serviceability, with the housing positioned to protect against force and dirt during impact
• Internal control valve – controlling smooth piston movement, factory set to deliver constant power and breaking force through the piston, while a simple design improves reliability
• Large piston – with a long stroke designed to deliver powerful impact force to material
• Precise powercell structure – the highspecification structure is designed to provide excellent overall reliability and durability
The B model has been designed and manufactured to Caterpillar’s strict standards,
using many parts common across the wider Cat hammer range, with Caterpillar advising that this makes accessing repair or replacement parts easier, with parts readily available from its comprehensive parts network.
Caterpillar additionally advises that maintenance is made easy with onsite access to the charging, testing and greasing ports, all without needing to remove the hammer from the machine, or the requirement of removing the head bracket from the hammer.
Finally, the lower bushing design which is an
area that is often costly to repair due to the need for specialized tooling has been made simpler with a slip-fit design that can be rotated 90 degrees for added life. Further this bushing can be removed and replaced in the field without the need for specialised tools.
Complementing the B model range, a Caterpillar-designed hydraulics kit is also included, providing the complete hammer package, with it featuring a nitrogen charging kit with charging hose, hammer paste, and tool retention and bushing retention spring pins.
For over thirty years Toyota Huski skid steer loaders have built a reputation on outstanding performance, driver comfort and legendary reliability. Continuing this pedigree, Toyota Material Handling has extended the Huski range to also include scissor lift and mini-excavator models.
With skid steer operating loads ranging from 320kg to 900kg, platform heights for scissor lifts 5.72m to 9.68m, and with miniexcavators from 1.3 to 6 tonne, you can be assured that there’s a Huski model guaranteed to put you at the head of the pack.
Italy-based SIMEX has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing highly durable and high performing excavator and skid steer attachments to meet the specific and ever-changing needs of construction, demolition, road maintenance, quarrying and mining industries.
SIMEX is widely acknowledged to be the market leader in rotary cutting machine technology, which has been specifically developed for tough conditions.
The SIMEX twin header rotary cutters, also known as rock grinders, aptly describe their use in dislodging and extracting material in a variety of applications.
The rotary cutter can tackle tunnelling work and performs well at wall profiling at building sites or basement digging. It can also be used under water, making it a versatile tool.
The twin header rotary cutter uses special patented technology with high torque that can bore through the toughest of material.
The product has several other impressive technical features worth mentioning.
An integrated high displacement hydraulic piston motor in the rotary cutter ensures high torque and high performance is consistently maintained during its deployment.
A filter on the feed line of the rotary cutter prevents impurities from entering the machine’s motor system.
Gaskets fitted to the rotary cutter’s drums guard against dust while the machine is working in the ground.
The rotary cutter also features double support bearings for each of the drums to ensure a longer service life for the machine, as its shaft system transmits only motion and bears no load.
Replaceable anti-wear plates are low cost in terms of the machine’s maintenance.
Another market-leading feature is its hydraulic system fitted with accumulators that act to protect the unit from hydraulic pressures while the unit is in operation.
Set-up time is relatively fast allowing it to be quickly deployed and it has many in-built safety features.
Noise emissions are quite low compared to other mechanical machines and other methods of extraction.
SIMEX twin headers can be mounted on carriers from 2.5 tonnes up to 70 tonnes, with maximum cutting force for the rotary cutting machine varying from 15.1 - 128 kN, depending on the model.
For more information, contact the authorised SIMEX dealer.
• QLD Rockbreakers in QLD and NT: (07) 3715 0800 rdw.com.au/qld-rock-breakers
• GroundTec in NSW: (02) 9642 2030 groundtec.com.au
• Walkers Hammers in VIC and TAS: (03) 9315 3788 walkershammers.com.au
• Total Rockbreaking Solutions in WA: 1300 921 498 totalrockbreaking.com.au
• Renex Equipment in SA (08) 8345 0555 renex.com.au
World famous for their power, efficiency and versatility, Fecon’s catalogue of skid streer mulchers have, until recently, been exclusive to owners of larger-sized SSLs and CTLs offering high hydraulic flow rates. Now, however, Fecon’s mulcher range has expanded into the mid-sized market to allow owners and operators of lower-flow machines the same renowned Fecon mulching experience.
Designed for use with skid steers and track loaders providing as low as 53 litres per minute of flow, Fecon Australia’s RK5015 Standard Flow Mulcher offers the new capability to run a world-renowned Fecon mulcher on a mid-sized machine.
The RK5015 features an impressive 22 highly durable cutting tools designed to maximise mulching efficiency, all contained within a practical 1270mm working width. The mulching
teeth are attached to a cleverly designed rotor made to produce a consistently fine chip size for an extremely tidy final product.
Operating within a 2400 to 3000 rpm range, Fecon’s Standard Flow Mulchers can quickly and effectively process brush and small trees up to 150mm in diameter. In addition, with the unit weighing less than 600kg – including its adaptable mounting plate and push bar – and with a close centre of gravity design, the RK5015 is easily carried and handled by virtually any mid-sized loader. And yet, despite its compact design, the unit is built extremely tough to deliver an impressively long service life.
The new Fecon Standard Flow Mulcher head is perfect for owners of mid-sized skid steer and compact track loaders undertaking fire prevention and mitigation works, general vegetation management, agricultural clearing such as fence rows and crop perimeters, site clean-ups and brush clearing.
The newfound capability for mid-sized skid steer loaders to run a heavy-duty mulching attachment expands overall business capabilities and opens vast additional revenue
stream opportunities for the thousands of owners and operators of mid-sized machines throughout Australia.
In addition to the RK5015 mulcher, Fecon Australia’s full range of vegetation management attachments – including High Flow Mulchers, Mulching Tractors, Stump Grinders and Tree Shears – remains well-stocked and available now throughout Australia. Whether you have a skid steer, track loader, excavator, backhoe or tractor – or you need a complete machine plus mulcher setup – Fecon Australia has the perfect forestry equipment to suit.
Furthermore, Fecon Australia offers a nationwide sales, parts and service network for all machines and attachments. As a result, not only will Fecon Australia provide perfectly suited forestry equipment for your needs, but you will also have the peace of mind that only comes with dealing with the very best in the business.
For more information about Fecon Australia’s range of forestry equipment, or to arrange an inspection, purchase or service, visit www.fecon.net.au or call 1300 332 661.
Attach2 introduced the first Multi Grab Bucket back in 2011 in New Zealand. At the time it was a revolutionary concept in grab attachments, and quickly became a valued tool in an earthmover’s arsenal.
But with an even more diverse environment of earthmoving in Australia, the Multi Grab Bucket could be just the tool you need to tackle jobs where a thumb just won’t cut it and you need more versatility than a grapple.
The Multi Grab Bucket Mk3 by Attach2 is a cross between a grapple and a bucket. This unique combination was engineered for grabbing performance and strength to fill a heavy-duty grab role with extra versatility.
By focusing on grab performance, the fixed bucket side of the attachment is more angular and boxed because this suits picking up materials and comfortably handling the high amount of grab force exerted by the grab thumb.
The flat bottom and back bucket of the bucket is made from high quality wear plate steel, which is equivalent to Hardox with extra
structural and wear plating for working with abrasive and heavy materials. The mounting ears and hydraulics are located on the back of the bucket, protecting them and the hitch from damage by placing them far from the grab’s working area.
The Multi Grab Bucket’s unique thumb or beak design has its pivot point securely welded to the bucket chassis, improving the overall strength of the attachment. The grab thumb has a long pivot arm maximising the mechanical advantage from the cylinder, which also includes a smart check valve that maintains hydraulic pressure without the operator needing to keep the flow open to maintain the thumbs position.
Perfectly suited to jobs that require strength and some bulk material handling, the Multi Grab Bucket is equally at home with small to medium
demolition works to forestry and agriculture.
The high-strength build isn’t just for specialist jobs, it completely replaces the use of a traditional thumb with a separate attachment that can do more and when not required be kept on the trailer without having to carry around the extra weight of the thumb on the dipper arm. In fleet situations a Multi Grab Bucket can be shared amongst excavators that require it on the job rather than fitting all excavators with a thumb or moving the thumb-equipped excavator to the site.
Join the Multi Grab Bucket revolution and improve your excavator’s productivity with the Multi Grab Bucket.
Get your Multi Grab Bucket from Attach2 – the original Multi Grab Bucket supplier. Attach2 – 1800 095 689 or sales@attach2.com. All Attach2 attachments come with an industry-leading 3-year warranty.
to
islands,
MB Crusher’s headquarters is in Italy, in a town less than 100 kilometres from Venice. This is where the units are designed and manufactured to be sent all over the world to those who deal with construction, demolition, road work and earthmoving jobs. From the imposing mountains in Tibet to the Cordillera of the Andes, from the Caribbean to Iceland, and from snow-covered Siberia to the deserts of Saudi Arabia – it’s easy to travel around the world with MB Crusher’s units.
Let’s start with high mountains. What makes it difficult to work in these locations? Difficulty to reach the areas, difficulty when transporting materials… it involves expensive costs and workshops are far away.
In Tibet customers work in the road construction industry, with a job site at 3800m above sea level, in a remote area with spectacular scenery. Using a BF70.2 crusher bucket, the company crushed road waste, produced material, and reused it as a sub-base for new projects. They obtained logistical and monetary advantages: with MB’s excavator crusher, they’ve eliminated the cost of procuring material for future jobs.
On a different continent, MB Crusher landed on the Andes in Perù at about 4000m from sea level. In a boron quarry, an MB-S18 screening bucket is sifting coarse material from the fine part. The selected material can be processed easily and faster by the quarry plant.
Our tour continues towards some islands, although far from each other, they share the same challenges: transportation costs and struggle to obtain materials.
In Iceland, among spectacular landscapes dominated by volcanoes and geysers, the MB-S23 screening bucket installed on a Caterpillar 345C was the best tool to select large quantities of basalt and immediately obtain filler material that will be used to help construct a hydroelectric plant.
On the other side of the world, in the Caribbean island of Saint Kitts and Nevis, there are two of MB Crusher’s units working on an important redevelopment project in the area. The company in charge of the project needed to renovate the old colonial buildings and rearrange the landscape. The MB-S18 screening bucket was installed on a Caterpillar 320L and separated the dirt from the leaves and twigs. The separated material was reused directly on-site to help maintain the landscape. On the other hand, the BF90.3 crusher bucket is used to crush the Nevis stone, a stone local to the islands and a type of hard granite with volcanic origins. Once crushed, the stone is reused to fill the excavations necessary to construct the buildings and to build the basement for the road network.
High transportation expenses and difficulties finding materials accompany our world tour, even on locations where it’s normal to have extreme temperatures, affecting the job sites.
Layers of snow as far as the eye can see and thermometers that read -50°C during the day,
almost empty roads, mountains, and forests to cross: thanks to MB Crusher, a company in Siberia brought their BF70.2 crusher bucket and their MB-S14 screening bucket without struggling with transportation costs. With the units, they recycled aggregates of different sizes and reused them to maintain the quarry internal haulage roads.
Something similar happened in Saudi Arabia with its +50°C in the summer surrounded by mountainous and desert locations where a BF90.3 crusher bucket is working in the most inaccessible places of a quarry. A place that is not reachable by traditional vehicles.
Then there are locations where their exports are appreciated, especially when it comes to excellent wine. Our world tour ends with a visit to Italy and France where MB Crusher’s units are chosen to dispose of the vineyard posts at the end of the harvest season. A great way to save time on the job site which translates into an economic and environmental advantage. The perfect way to end this journey? With a glass of wine, of course!
A world tour of materials from quarries processed with MB Crusher’s attachments.
Quarries around the world offer spectacular sites such as Carrara marble quarry or the beautiful elliptical patterns from copper mines, plus they provide important resources for every country. Despite the differences and the great distances between them, there are two main problems that all sites have in common: managing extracted material and productivity rates. Each quarry consistently sends engineers and operators in the field to look for new solutions that can increase their profitability.
The answer comes from MB Crusher’s range of attachments designed to transform certain operating expenses to an advantage. The units are easy to use without needing specialised machines or personnel, making them immediately operational.
Our tour starts in India, where an MB-S18 screening bucket was installed on a Kobelco SK220SD excavator in a sandstone quarry. They saw immediate results: the extracted
materials were screened to select the desired output size, ready to be sold.
Moving onto Uzbekistan where the MB-R900 drum cutter has been introduced in a gypsum quarry. Thanks to the unit, they easily obtained excellent material of a smaller size, suitable to be brought to a stationary crusher and increasing its hourly production. The finished product is then sold as a base for plaster.
In South America at an enormous open-pit copper mine the best decision was to introduce the BF120.4 crusher bucket and the MB-S18 screening bucket to the mine fleet. Both units are suitable for situations where high-level performances and large quantities of production is required.
MB’s jaw crusher is installed on a Caterpillar 336D that works day and night to crush the inert material, when properly screened by the MB-S18 screening bucket, is perfect to cover
the holes that contain the explosives. This way, the explosion is more targeted and efficient. The larger sized materials are used to build the mine haulage roads.
With the waste material managed directly on-site, they saved time and money, which are fundamental factors for quarry or mine’s competitiveness.
Inside a large coal quarry in southern India, they needed to accurately manage materials because their surface miner was unable to adjust the output size they needed. The solution came from one of MB Crusher’s units, the MB-HDS320 shaft screener bucket. They installed the unit on their excavator working and began producing 55-66 tonnes per hour of material ready to be used at the power plant. There are several results: reduced waste, increased profitability in the quarry, reduced operational expenses down to the bare minimum and consistent optimized productivity.
Quick couplings manufacturer Stucchi has expanded its presence in the local market, establishing a new office in Western Australia, complementing its east coast operations and national network of distributors, as it continues to focus on providing a premium and accessible service for its growing Australian customer base.
The Italian fluid connections and control specialist, which draws on over 60 years of manufacturing knowledge, has maintained a presence in Australia since 2013, developing strong connections with local manufacturers.
As noted by long-term partner Norm Engineering, “Stucchi exceeds our expectations for delivery and quality”, with the earthmoving attachments specialist – which is based out of Brisbane, and which also runs a Melbourne branch – additionally observing:
and comfortable in operation finish provides a safe non slip durable surface.
“Stucchi connect under pressure couplings have been used on Norm Engineering attachments for around 10 years.
Extended nose Beneficial for Agricultural applications.
Durable finish anodised colours available.
Integrated stop ring
“The partnership with Stucchi is because of proven quality and ease of use of the product. It is also recognised by our customers in all the industry groups – from excavator to skid steer loader, they connect effortlessly in all applications.”
Stucchi’s new Malaga operations will in particular provide it a further avenue to cater to the oil and gas and mining sectors, in conjunction with its Australian headquarters in Dandenong South in Victoria, along with an office in Brendale in Queensland.
European designed and manufactured identification
lines, is designed to simplify work processes and eliminate sources of error.
• Extended nose – beneficial for agricultural applications
Simplifies when connecting multiple lines. and reliable mounting SUREGRIP can be mounted to all standard hydraulic connections safely and quickly.
Stucchi has over the years built a reputation as one of the principal innovators in the quick couplings sector, with it focused on developing products that are easy to use, safe, long lasting, environmentally friendly and which assist with energy efficiency.
Available in: NPT, UNO, Metric Parking station available
Complementing its comprehensive quick couplings range, Stucchi’s Suregrip, a resistant and durable hydraulic grip for marking hydraulic
Stucchi advises that Suregrip is suited to modern agricultural engineering, along with industrial and construction industries, with the non-slip marking grips easily mounted into the fluid line in front of the hose end piece as a pre-mounted kit with an Poppet, Flat Face, or Screw couplings.
Suregrip is European designed and manufactured, with its features including:
• Safe and comfortable operation – the knurled finish provides a safe non-slip durable surface, proven working with gloves or oily hands
• Durable finish – with 10 anodised colours available
• Integrated stop ring – protecting against slipping off when coupling
• Simple identification – simplifies operations when connecting multiple lines
• Simple and reliable mounting – can be mounted to all standard hydraulic connections safely and quickly.
Visit us:
8/7-11 Rodeo Drive Dandenong South, VICTORIA 3175
3/22 Strathwyn Street Brendale, QUEENSLAND 4500 3/31-33 Capital Road Malaga, PERTH 6090 www.stucchigroup.com
Proactively maintaining a regular servicing schedule for the excavator attachment is tried and tested way to cut downtime, avoid costly repairs, improve the overall efficiency of operation and to prolong the life of your investment.
There are multiple approaches to maintain machinery attachments and one of the most effective ways to improve machine maintenance is to collect and analyse data.
Rammer has brought several innovations to the hydraulic rock breaker market, including constant blow energy, idle blow protection, attachment-mounted dust suppression, automatic lubrication and now with integrated smart technology, Rammer is helping customers avoid unnecessary downtime.
Rammer was the first on the market to add remote monitoring system, RD3 for hydraulic rock breakers.
The RD3 monitoring device is attached to the rock breaker pinpointing the exact location of the equipment and customers can simply log into the MyFleet platform to see all the data on operating hours, how the rock breaker is being operated and required service intervals.
Correct operation is vital to minimize the chance that rock breaker fails and causes costly unscheduled downtime. One of the major causes of premature failure in rock breakers is long cycles where the operator continues to hit the button and the piston keeps striking for an extended period of time.
By using advanced electronics to sense the impacts and stresses on the rock breaker, RD3 provides information on how the rock breaker is being operated. With the RD3 data, customers can provide operator education when needed to avoid maintenance costs due to premature failure.
Simply by logging into the MyFleet platform, customers can see all the data on operating hours and required service intervals helping them manage service periods and minimize machinery downtime by scheduling maintenance during times of least impact on production.
With downtime planned at optimal times based on the data of rock breaker usage, maintenance programs can be streamlined to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
The hour meter shows MyFleet users the total time the rock breaker has been engaged in rock breaking that can also ensure a higher re-sale value as the actual work hours are known.
Rammer, a well-respected brand for hydraulic attachments, is a part of Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions business area that operates within the Sandvik Group, the global engineering giant in mining and rock excavation,
metal-cutting and materials technology.
Rammer products are supported by a dedicated global dealer network offering factory-approved maintenance and warranty services and with ready access to genuine Rammer parts and a wealth of operational knowledge and experience. The dealer network can ensure Rammer products continue to contribute to customers’ profitability for its entire working life.
RAMMER DEALER NETWORK
GroundTec in NSW: (02) 9642 2030 groundtec.com.au
Walkers Hammers in VIC and TAS: (03) 9315 3788 walkershammers.com.au
Total Rockbreaking Solutions in WA: 1300 921 498
totalrockbreaking.com.au
QLD Rockbreakers in QLD and PNG: (07) 3715 0800
rdw.com.au/qld-rock-breakers
Renex Equipment in SA and the NT: (08) 8345 0555 renex.com.au
Digga will donate $10 from the sale of every auger sold in February to Ovarian Cancer Research.
Over the past three years Digga has donated over $235,000 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), a leading charity which funds numerous research projects nationwide. In addition, last June a donation matching promotion led by Digga helped raise over $315,000 for a Precision Medicine Research Project.
“Having reached $50,000 over what was needed to fully fund this research project was just incredible,” said Zoe Davies, Digga’s Deputy CEO. “A few years ago we were fortunate enough to see firsthand the potential of this research. It was incredibly satisfying to be able to fund this project and support the great people who are committed to making a difference to woman with Ovarian Cancer.”
Zoe lost her mum to Ovarian Cancer in 2018. Suzie Wright was CEO of Digga Australia and Kanga Loaders. A visionary who paved the way for women in a male dominated industry, Suzie was well respected for her business acumen as well as her generosity. Prior to losing her 15-month battle with Ovarian cancer, Suzie would set the wheels in motion for Digga’s growth. “We’re continuing her great work and her vision for the Digga and Kanga brands,” Zoe expressed with pride. Suzie’s vision for Digga is being overseen by Zoe and group CEO, Alan Wade who was married to Suzie. It’s a real family affair!
“Four years ago we lost my mum, it was only 15 months prior was she actually diagnosed. After a pretty short battle and some horrendous treatments nothing really changed the outcome for her or us as a family. It’s extremely important to us that we do everything in our power to help ensure this doesn’t happen to other people in the future,” added Zoe.
Since the passing of Suzie Wright, Digga created a collaborative partnership with the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Since being established in 2000, the OCRF has grown to become Australia’s leading independent body dedicated to funding national ovarian cancer research.
For the past 3 years Digga, in collaboration with Kanga Loaders, have worked to raise as many funds as possible to support clinical trials and much needed research. In 2019, at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo and again at the HIRE 19 Tradeshow, Kanga Loaders donated and auctioned off two mini loaders. The machines were painted teal, the colour given to Ovarian Cancer, with the entire proceeds from the sale of these machines donated directly to the OCRF!
“Digga have always been generous with charities over the years but supporting Ovarian Cancer Research is our mission now. It’s a cause close to our hearts, so we’re really focused on making a difference for women suffering this terrible disease,” said Lionel Smitka, the Digga group Marketing Manager. “Too often, once a woman is diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, it’s too late, so I love the work being done on the early detection test. Initial test results have been amazing, so this could be a game changer,” he added.
Lionel went on, “Partnering with the OCRF has been fantastic, they are such great people who believe in what they do. Also, the incredible generosity of the earthmoving industry has been
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is held each year in February to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, to share the stories of real women affected by the disease, to highlight the risk factors for ovarian cancer and educate Australians on ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment.
This February, Digga will be painting all its 12” and 18” A4TL augers silver to help raise this awareness, while $10 from the sale of every auger will be donated to help the OCRF fund research projects. Digga encourages all Australian women to learn about Ovarian Cancer symptoms; and if you can, Dig Deep and donate whatever you can. Remember donations above $2 are tax deductable!
In February Digga will donate $10 for every auger sold to the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.
Make a Donation Scan this QR code to donate and help fund much needed research.
“John Deere introduced its Series-II Excavator offering to the Australian market over 12 months ago and customers enjoy the power and performance.” Kel Davison, Director for Marketing and Sales, Construction and Forestry Equipment said. The lineup included eight models ready to perform in Australian conditions and to deliver the quality and performance John Deere customers expect.
Through John Deere Customer Advocate Groups (CAGs), engineers and developers engage closely with customers, and respond to their feedback, at key points in the design of John Deere machines so that features and specifications deliver exactly what is needed.
Customers also help evaluate John Deere designs by putting equipment through their paces in a series of in-dirt evaluations. By understanding real-world application, our engineers have the information and insights they need to create a differential edge on John Deere products, and this critical input is the driver behind every comfort, function, and performance feature we produce.
John Deere Senior Vice President Engineering, Manufacturing and Supply Management for the John Deere Construction and Forestry Division, Brian Rauch, said this customerfocused design approach is prioritised and implemented globally, across all products.
The spacious cab was designed with convenience in mind. John Deere have made sure there was plenty of storage and controls were easy to use and well placed. Ensuring that operators can be comfortable and productive all day long. The Sealed Switch Module (SSM) is very intuitive, conveniently placed, is water and dust proof and eliminates unsealed connections and moving parts associated with traditional rocker switches. The 7-inch touch screen monitor is easy to navigate, providing quick access to machine features and functions that is easier than some systems. Multiple machine readings and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) are available for the operator to read via the touch screen.
Easy daily servicing is another thing we are hearing from our customers. The ability to do
most tasks from the ground without tools is a time saver for our customers. Grouped service points, single position swing greasing, 4,000-hour hydraulic oil and filter and 500-hour engine oil and filter changes, as well as the oil-sealed and lubricated undercarriage, ensure daily servicing is simple and efficient.
John Deere excavators are built tough to deliver more uptime by harnessing the power of heavy-duty booms and arms, a robust electrical system and optimised hydraulic routing. A sealed and lubricated undercarriage and heavy-duty welded X-frame provide a solid, stable platform, while the sloped track frame resists material build-up to decrease cleaning time.
Full-length track guides and double-grouser track shoes are optional for rocky terrain and a heavy-duty cooling system keeps the engine and hydraulic system running efficiently, even in tough environments.
Big tasks demand serious equipment. Combining substantial power with smooth, low-effort control, John Deere excavators provide the exceptional performance and fast work cycles needed to tackle large jobs quickly. Four power modes and three work modes deliver the right power and response for maximum productivity and strong digging force.
With a strong focus on getting the job done, these excavators prioritise quality, productivity and operator comfort while incorporating strategic features such as premium hydraulic performance, highly durable and thick boom, arm, and buckets to withstand tougher digging conditions, and Auto Pressure Boost to anticipate and deliver power when it’s needed.
The highly dependable John Deere PowerTech™ Plus engine with variablegeometry turbo-charger (VGT) delivers outstanding fuel efficiency, to move more material on less fuel. Full integration with Deere’s Intelligent Hydraulic (JD-IHC) system combines impressive performance with smooth, low-effort control. Generous flow, arm force, and swing torque help keep things moving, while the 90/180-deg function (available on the E300’s) increases the boom-up speed for faster truck loading.
John Deere design the majority of their components, which means they don’t need to compromise the overall design. This deep vertical integration of products provides a further competitive edge to customers.
JDLinkTM Telematics system enables dealers to respond to customer needs and diagnose, and even correct many issues, without leaving the dealership.
These excavators are built in a purpose-built factory in Tianjin, China to exacting Deere engineering standards and once a build is complete, quality inspections continue, with new products put through a series of thorough trials to ensure quality and performance at dedicated factory test facilities. Equipment is subjected to several thermal cycles, raising, and lowering operating temperatures. This is why John Deere machines will often have two to three hours on the clock at time of delivery –so customers can be assured the equipment has been thoroughly tested.
The Series-II excavators are in stock.
Call your John Deere dealer to experience the outstanding quality, reliability, durability and performance.
WA: AFGRI Equipment (08) 6278 7100
Other States: RDO Equipment on 1300 008 608
John Deere Construction and Forestry Equipment has a reputation across the world for outstanding quality, reliability, durability and performance, and their Series-II excavators are no exception.Renowned worldwide for their outstanding quality and reliability, John Deere mid-sized excavators are designed and built using stateof-the-art tools, techniques and components by a quality-conscious workforce in a John Deere manufacturing plant. Loaded with operator friendly features such as a 7” touch-screen monitor, Intelligent Hydraulic system and PowerTech™ Plus engine, these machines deliver impressive performance with smooth, low-effort control. And with our expert dealers in more locations across Australia than ever before, you’ll get the support needed to ensure your operation is running at maximum productivity.
It’s a New Day and a New Deere.
The new 245XR excavator is the latest addition to JCB’s highly acclaimed X SERIES.
Deon Cope, JCB CEA’s National Product Manager, explains key features that differentiate the machine from the rest of the market.
With an intuitive design, the 245XR offers users a reduced slewing radius, while also ensuring that other features such as cab space are not compromised.
“This is JCB’s latest release on its X SERIES platform. While the excavator platform weighs 20 to 25 tonnes, the weight comes in at 27 tonnes with the blade,” Cope says.
The 245XR has a tail swing radius of 1.72 metres, which is 40 per cent less than its predecessor, the 220X Excavator.
“One of the main advantages of this feature is the reduced spin, so operators do not need to close off additional freeway lanes when they are working close to live traffic. Operators can also use the machine in tight spaces when working on building and infrastructure projects,” Cope says.
“There is also a safety aspect to the reduced tail swing, as there is less chance of damage to nearby buildings or personnel on site when the machine is in operation.”
With a 40 per cent shorter tail swing and supported by a bucket capacity of 1.25 cubicmetres, the 245XR can optimise operations in difficult working applications.
“The 245XR runs on a similar hydraulic pump system as the 220X, but we have gone with a larger pump, a larger control valve and better fluid dynamics throughout the whole machine,” he says. “So, we still maintain that speed and accuracy while also having increased breakout and performance.”
In designing the 245XR, Cope says JCB’s engineers have allocated weight to key areas of the machine to achieve equilibrium.
Operator feedback also contributed to the design of the 245XR’s cabin, which features double cushioned viscous mounts to reduce the noise to 69 decibels. The seat-mounted joystick and switch controls can also move with the operator.
The 245XR utilises JCB’s DIESELMAX engine, which was released in 2004 and has been proven to be effective in 70 different machines globally.
Cope says the engine, which has a dedicated off-road design, contributes to reducing running costs for operators. “An advanced cylinder head design means you can get a
more efficient burn at the head of the cylinder. The design also eliminates the need for a diesel particulate filter, which further cuts the maintenance costs.”
The use of AdBlue diesel exhaust fluid further adds to the engine’s performance.
“The 245XR requires approximately three per cent of AdBlue per litre of diesel, which is less than the amount required for comparable excavators,” says Cope.
Selectable Swing Smoothing is a feature that comes as standard with the 245XR and it enables the operator to customise the performance of the vehicle to suit any given application. Cope says that the feature can produce sharper, or more gradual movements,
depending on what is required from the job at hand.
“Because of the additional weight of the upper revolving frame, we have selected a larger slew motor and a larger slew brake, which helps increase the torque,” Cope says. “Increased slew braking means operators can accurately slew left or right and then come back onto line when working on projects like installing pipes or cutting trenches.
“We also have the ability to smooth the slew. Where operators may want more speed instead of accuracy, they can switch to softer slew so it doesn’t brake as aggressively and has a smoother action. This is useful for tasks such as loading trucks.”
For more information, visit: www.jcb.com
Introducing our latest addition to the X Series. 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.
After almost 20 years of providing the Australian market with robust, reliable, and cost-effective product lines from large excavators, wheel loaders, dozers, skid steers, motor graders and rollers, LiuGong now look to the Mini and Compact excavators to complete their comprehensive range of products.
LiuGong’s line up of earthmoving and construction equipment offers unbeatable return on your investment. LiuGong’s customerdriven design and quality-focused engineering creates lasting value that will deliver to your bottom line the performance you need and the flexibility your projects demand. Fuel efficiency coupled with smooth operation allows you to get your jobs done. LiuGong’s expansive range not only includes powerful machines that can take on the toughest of jobs but also offers compact machines for tight quarters as seen with the new range of Mini and Compact excavators. Aimed at civil contractors, commercial construction, and rental users, LiuGong has introduced five new excavators to the Australian market.
The 9018F represents the smallest of the powerfully efficient mini excavator models. Weighing in at 1.8t with canopy, its compact dimensions and retractable undercarriage alone give its users several transportation and application benefits. When control is everything, the 9018F has load sensing hydraulics delivering precise and smooth operation for excellent grading performance. The electro-proportional auxiliary lines enable easy and accurate control of the attachments. The new dozer blade geometry allows the bucket and the blade to work in harmony to speedily sweep away materials. Fully opening side covers give easy access to all service points and components for ease of maintenance.
The 9018F is absolutely packed with features for a machine in this class, with a powerful 13.4kW Yanmar engine, dual way Aux 1 and Aux 2 attachment lines with proportional joystick control, LED lights, auto idling and hydraulic quick hitch ready from factory. The 9018F is perfect for any site or to expand your rental profile.
The all new 9027F ZTS is a true zero tail-swing, 2.7t excavator, which brings heavy-duty power to even the most confined spaces. This operator-friendly compact excavator is powered by the latest fuel efficient Yanmar engine with the refined combustion process assuring precise fuel delivery and control.
The result is reduced emissions, improved performance over a wide range of applications and increased fuel economy.
Multi-tool versatility is designed into the 9027F ZTS. High flow, 2-way attachment hydraulic lines with proportional control are fitted as standard making it easy to get the most from the machine. Single direction attachments such as breakers or dual direction attachments such as a tilting bucket can easily be utilised. With rotation circuit also available, multiple flow attachments such as a selector grab or 4-line tilt rotator can also be employed with ease.
9035E ZTS
The 9035E ZTS zero tail swing 3.8t model is powered by the latest generation, low emission Yanmar engine, environmentally friendly with excellent visibility and fast cycle times. The air-conditioned cab features ergonomically designed controls, large entrance and a spacious interior designed for operator comfort and efficiency.
The LiuGong 9035E ZTS excavator delivers high performance, durability, and reliability with a zero-tail swing design to ensure safe and easy operation within a confined space.
906E
906E is the 6-tonne class compact machine boasting clean and practical appearance, low fuel consumption and high operating efficiency, excellent controllability, comfortable operating environment with good visibility and low vibration, and fully open rear engine cover for easy maintenance. Features include Yanmar engine with electronic throttle control, automatic idle, carefully adjusted load-sensitive hydraulic system featuring excellent operability, pressure cab with good view and low vibration
providing a comfortable operating environment, exceptional layout of parts and fully open rear engine cover for easy maintenance.
909E CR
The new 909E CR developed for the 8-tonne to 10-tonne size class, is an example of LiuGong’s customer centric approach. Designed in close co-operation with plant hire customers, this compact radius machine is new from the ground up and has been designed to fill a gap in the rapidly growing rental market. Offering excellent stability, the 909ECR is a highly versatile tool carrier enabling it to use a wide variety of attachments, in road and inner-city applications.
Ergonomically designed controls and a feature-rich cab make operating the 909ECR easier and offer increased productivity. The improved cab design offers operators better line-of-site as well as standard features like rear cameras, proportional joystick controls, an air suspension seat, and an enhanced monitor.
Steel tracks with rubber street pads come standard with the 909ECR, allowing use in a variety of worksite conditions. Two-speed travel with auto downshift makes it easy to move effectively while lowering impact on the surface environment. The 909ECR also comes standard with two auxiliary hydraulic circuits whose pressure and flow can be controlled at the operator’s monitor. The standard case drain line ensures easy installation of hydraulic tools like grapples, mulchers, and mowers.
For more information regarding LiuGong’s extensive range of construction, agriculture and rental equipment including details on dealers in your area please visit https://apac.liugong.com/
LIUGONG Australia “MOVES IT UP A GEAR” with the launch of the much-anticipated Mini and Compact excavator range.
LiuGong keeps up with you. Through day and night, tight deadlines and harsh conditions, LiuGong machines are the reliable choice to never stop working.
Phil began working for his father in 1973 when he started out in the earthmoving industry driving wheel loaders and dozers on the family farm.
The company now provides a variety of services including earthmoving, large dams, land clearing for rural properties, quarry and forestry site preparations. The company owns 40 pieces of equipment from major brands including excavators, dozers, articulated dump trucks, wheel loaders and screening equipment.
After purchasing a 32 ton Hidromek HMK300LC excavator in 2020, Pearn Earthmoving became one of the first companies in Australia to purchase the new Hidromek HMK230LC. The 23 ton HMK230LC is part of the new H4 Series excavators released in Australia in late 2020.
“We trialled the excavators before buying them to make sure they were fit for purpose for what we were after. I prefer to test drive a machine before buying, rather than
Pearn Earthmoving is a family business founded in 1955 with extensive experience in the earthmoving game. Today the company is owned by Phil and Marie Pearn and employ 22 people.
relying on reading brochures and manuals,” explained Phil.
“During our trials we found that the Hidromeks have strong build quality, very good visibility and great final trim capabilities. They definitely match major brands in the market, both in terms of build quality and performance”.
Phil continued, “Another thing that really stood out is how strong they are. They can track up steep hills without needing to utilise a bucket to help drag the machine up, as opposed to some of our excavators from other brands. We were quite impressed with that.”
The new HMK230LC also came with all the components the Pearns were after, so they did not require to add any optional extras which was a bonus.
“I’ve got my grand-son learning the ropes and he is currently on a dam building project operating the HMK230LC. He is quite happy with the new Hidromek and its technology and comfort in cab after having operated other brands for the last couple of years,” said Phil.
“Onetrak have a very personalised approach and we have had great dealings with the people there. I have spoken to the Managing Director, David Hazell several times and it just shows that they care about their customers. They have also been flexible with demonstrations and trade-ins to accommodate us. The whole process has just been smooth and easy”.
When Pearn Earthmoving needed a screen last year, they purchased an Anaconda DF410 Scalper from Onetrak as they had become the national dealer for the Anaconda brand.
They visited another customer site to see a DF410 working before the Pearns made a decision that this was the right machine for their operations.
The Anaconda is approximately 15 tonnes operating weight – it is compact and easy to pick up and transport to another site. It is fuel efficient and very productive for its compact size. It splits the products three ways at once which very useful.
Phil added, “Currently, the Anaconda is screening waste material from an old demolition site. We have a 22 tonne excavator feeding it and the excavator is struggling to keep up with the screen which speaks for the productivity. Screening out the soil from the rubble saves our clients’ money and recycles value from what would otherwise be a waste product.”
“In terms of aftersales we haven’t needed much support as the machines have been running well however on the occasion when we do need service, Onetrak have always been great. For us it’s important to work with companies that are flexible and value good relationships with their customer,” concluded Phil.
Global mining equipment manufacturer Komatsu has made a major commitment to Australia’s hard rock mining industry as miners seek operational efficiency in response to expected increases in international demand for precious minerals.
Komatsu Australia’s launch of a suite of four underground loaders and the infrastructure to support them comes after several years of research and occurs during its centenary year of service to the mining and construction industries.
While gold remains Australia’s primary hard rock resource, world automakers also are seeking reliable access to sophisticated metals for their move to vehicle-electrification, and Australia is at the forefront of supply.
It is the first time Komatsu Australia has entered the hard rock market with a concerted hard rock mining solution, believed to be the most dedicated program of its type in the local hard rock sector. Komatsu does so with the unique challenges of the Australian hard rock mining segment at the forefront of their strategy.
Two high technology hybrid drive underground loaders, uniquely equipped with durable independent electric motors in each wheel, headline a substantial investment by Komatsu to provide a complete service solution to miners and contractors.
“Providing hard rock miners with reliable underground loaders is part of a broader understanding of the need to assist their overall productivity in the face of global competition,” said Joshua Foale, Product Manager Mining, Komatsu Australia.
More than 70 established Australian hard rock mines are likely to be joined by others as demand increases, increasing the need to achieve cost efficiencies as competitive pressures mount.
Komatsu will enter the hard rock mining sector with two large capacity technology-leading hybrid-electric loaders and two conventionally powered smaller machines designed for narrow vein operation.
The hybrid Komatsu WX22H and WX18H load haul dump (LHD) loaders each claim the lowest total operating costs in their class.
Komatsu’s analysis shows the conventionally powered Komatsu WX07, seven-tonne loader is 14 per cent more productive than any other machine in its category. The WX04, four-tonne version offers 20 per cent more breakout force in its class, based on published information.
Komatsu’s WX22H and smaller WX18H achieve up to 20 per cent increase in tonnes moved compared to conventionally powered loaders,
with up to 20 per cent decrease in fuel costs, based on operating trials. An independent life cycle analysis identified a 30 per cent reduction in operating costs.
Improved work cycle performance is achieved by use of high efficiency electric traction motors in each wheel, making conventional mechanical power drive redundant, resulting in substantial reductions in operating costs.
The Kinetic Energy Storage System (KESS) is at the heart of the switched reluctance hybrid drive which captures and reuses braking energy from each of the four wheels. Heatenergy generated when the machine stops abruptly at the dig face is captured by the bi-directional KESS loop instead of being lost to the atmosphere.
KESS stores and releases three megajoules of energy, supplementing power from the conventional diesel engine for greater acceleration to maximise cycle performance.
A smart traction system provides smoother acceleration and results in less tyre wear, and component degradation. It generates less inertia at each stop, significantly reducing potential damage to the drive train.
Fewer underground emissions, lower heat rejection and greater operator comfort are all intended benefits of the hybrid system.
Komatsu’s 22 tonne WX22H produces 320kW (429hp); the smaller WX18H produces 280 kw(375hp).
Both engines are rated to the strictest Euro V requirements for emission control. And both utilise the same KESS, capable of delivering 410kW (550hp), effectively doubling power delivery on demand.
Komatsu has designed these machines for maximum productivity. The WX07 is the forerunner of a new breed of load haul dump loaders utilising improved chassis, power train and operator cabin environment.
Large capacity fuel tanks - 243 litres in the case of the WX07- allow longer operational cycles between refuelling.
Cabin access, visibility and ergonomics have been optimised and critical service points have been placed at ground level to minimize the need for technicians to climb or use ladders to reach key areas.
The WX18, part of the new hybrid loaders which provide up to 20 per cent greater productivity, while also reducing operating costs.
A new more efficient bucket design enables greater penetration into a load pile for fast bucket filling.
The Komatsu WX04 delivers 97kW (130hp) and the WX07 delivers 160kW (215hp).
Komatsu’s range of hard rock mining machines establishes new standards of strength and durability.
“In developing our machines, we have been specific in providing protection for critical structural components, linkages and joints,” said Joshua Foale.
“Reliability has been a paramount consideration in the design of long-life moving parts,” he said.
“In the case of our Hybrid Drive (HD) machines, there are no commutators, brushes or rotor windings to replace, and our wiring systems are double insulated.
A replacement parts stock consistent with Komatsu’s well-respected service to customers across all industry and product sectors would provide assurance.
To learn more about Komatsu and its 100-year long journey, visit www.komatsu.com.au
The new WX07 hard rock loader utilises an improved chassis, power train and operator cabin environment, as well as a more efficient bucket which helps overall productivity.
As the world’s third largest construction equipment manufacturer with more than four decades of industry experience, XCMG has built a global reputation for innovation, reliability and performance throughout its entire range of machinery – including excavators, graders, rollers and more.
XCMG’s mini excavator range is one of Australia’s most impressive line-ups of highperformance, value-for-money machines.
Ranging from the compact XE17U 1.7 tonne mini digger purpose-built for tight access work, up to the robust and powerful XE55U designed to dominate virtually any construction project, XCMG has you covered.
With the renowned Kubota D902 engine, premium quality Bosch Rexroth hydraulic componentry, and Eaton swing and travel motors, the XE17U delivers efficient and durable performance. Its clever zero tailswing design and variable 990-1240mm track width allows tight access work on virtually any job site, whilst safety is a primary focus of the XE17U with its boom cylinder located on the top of the boom and a ROPS FOPS canopy
that meets Australian safety requirements, including a safe lock function.
The XE17U also delivers exceptional breakout digging force with its reinforced arm, stick and bucket, plus a notable overall system flow rate of 64.4 LPM and auxiliary flow of 34 LPM. Maintenance is also simple and efficient with easy access to the engine and all componentry via swing-out doors, to minimise downtime and maximise work time.
Stepping up in size is the 2.7 tonne XE27U. Much like the XE17U, this model offers excellent capability for tight access work with the added benefit of extra power, hydraulic flow and breakout force.
The XE27U’s open air canopy operator station offers excellent visibility around the machine, and its ergonomic control layout ensures
maximum comfort for operators of any size.
A Kubota D1105 Stage V engine delivers more than 20 horsepower and 70 Nm of torque, combining with 23 kN of bucket digging force and 14 kN of arm digging force, to create a notably powerful, highly capable machine.
Furthermore, unlike many other makes and models in its size class, arm and boom safety valves are included as standard on the XE27U – further enhancing your operational safety, and peace of mind.
With a bucket kit, hydraulic hitch and dozer blade all included as standard, the XE27U is ready to take on any project and perform with unrivalled reliability and durability.
With a powerful Yanmar 3TNV88F engine and premium quality hydraulic componentry, the 4.2 tonne XE35U dominates its size class.
The perfect all-round machine for excavation, loading, levelling, trenching, crushing, drilling, clamping and lifting, owners and operators are currently utilising the XE35U on a wide variety of projects – site cleaning, hydropower, transportation, municipal, garden, farmland transformation and oil pipeline works.
The overall shape of the XE35U adopts a zero tailswing design, which is flexible and versatile for operating in tight and small spaces, such as urban streets and residential properties. The minimised slewing radius ensures improved convenience and safety, and operators feel the added confidence provided by this excavator’s excellent stability and smooth control.
The XE35U mini excavator is available in two configurations; an open canopy, or a large, comfortable enclosed cabin with air conditioning
and heating as standard. The ergonomic layout of the controls, the travel pedals, and the adjustable wrist rests, are designed to reduce operator fatigue and increase productivity.
The XE35U also has durable steel body panels all around, providing good resistance to impact damage and strong protection for internal componentry. In addition, the XE35U is designed for lower maintenance cost with longer service intervals – resulting in more machine availability on-site, and more profitability.
Presently the largest of the XCMG mini excavator range, the 5.7 tonne XE55U offers a powerful yet efficient Kubota V2403 engine, premium Bosch Rexroth hydraulic componentry, and minimised tailswing operation, the XE55U delivers versatile, durable and cost-effective performance.
158.5 LPM of overall hydraulic flow allows operators to run a wide variety of attachments with smooth control and powerful performance, such as forestry mulchers, augers and shears. The enclosed cab is spacious, ergonomic, climate-controlled and extremely comfortable for operators.
The XE55U has been designed and manufactured with particular attention to easy service access, with a single access point for the daily maintenance of all main components, fuel level gauge and refuelling through the lockable cap, plus swing open and swing up engine access doors.
For more information about XCMG’s diverse range of construction, mining and agriculture equipment, plus special limited time offers on mini excavators, visit www.xcmgmachinery.com.au
Narva’s new Optimax LED Rotating Beacon range offers users durability and the many benefits of LED technology, but at a price point that is similar to lower performing halogen products.
The beacons were engineered with tough Australian conditions in mind and have been extensively tested by Narva and independent accredited labs. LED technology is inherently more reliable than halogen, with LEDs achieving a life of over 50,000 hours compared to only around 650 hours for a standard H1 globe.
In demanding applications, extreme vibrations can also damage lighting, but in the case of the Optimax range, the beacons have been vibration (IEC 60068-2-64) and mechanical shock (ISO 16750-3) tested. Further aiding the lights’ durability is a diecast aluminium base and a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lens that’s UV protected. For added peace of mind, the Optimax line-up has also been tested and certified to IP67 for dust and water ingress, making the lights suitable for use in wet and dusty conditions.
The new Optimax LED range provides an extremely high light output that is two times brighter than SAE standards, ensuring superior visibility and added safety for on and off-highway applications including civil works, roadside assistance, and agricultural work.
The impressive output comes courtesy of six 5-watt high power LEDs and an innovative reflector optic design, which also assists the Beacons to produce a smooth rotating pattern, further aiding visibility while allowing the lights to meet Heavy Vehicle Regulation 2013 No.77. As a comparison, the Optimax range offers visibility that’s comparable to halogen beacons with large 55W or 70W globes, but with a fraction of the current draw.
The new range also debuts Australia’s first dual colour LED rotating beacon. There are some brands that claim to offer dual colour strobes; however, none provide the smooth rotating pattern of a true rotating beacon. The Optimax dual colour beacon can be switched
between two colours depending on the application. For example, some sites require green output when working at low speeds but amber in other situations, so Optimax eliminates the need for two beacons while still producing a rotating beacon pattern.
Other benefits of the Optimax LED Beacon range are that they are rated 10-33V and have over-voltage protection to ensure no failures due to voltage spikes. Such spikes are a common occurrence that can easily blow a halogen globe. Additionally, the Optimax range is equipped with a stepper motor which provides stable rotation speed; many halogen beacons use belts to create their rotating pattern, and these can fail resulting in downtime.
With Flange, Single Bolt, Pole, Flexible Pole and Vacuum Magnetic mount options to suit agricultural, civil, and municipal applications, the Optimax range is versatile and as with all Narva warning lights, can be fitted to utility or
mine bars, allowing the user to customise the bar with accessories to suit their requirements. Optimax also features a lower profile design than halogen counterparts, making them less likely to suffer damage from knocks on the job site.
The new Narva Optimax LED Rotating Beacon range is backed by a generous three-year warranty on both LEDs and the rotating mechanism, and is available from leading construction, agricultural and transportation outlets nationwide.
Narva is Australian owned and is a leader in the development, manufacture and supply of automotive lighting and electrical components for the automotive, marine and transport industries.
Further information on the extensive Narva program can be found by visiting the Narva website at www.narva.com.au or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/narvaaustralia.
It’s shaping up as another busy year for Merlo Group Australia, poised to add a number of new machines to its product line-up, including the DBM 3500 concrete mixer and the Cingo M800 TD compact transporter, with the manufacturer setting about broadening its offerings to the Australian market.
Having recently introduced the ROTO 50.26SEE PLUS rotating telehandler to its, Merlo Group Australia is well positioned to build further momentum in 2022, with the DBM 3500 and Cingo M800 TD adding more variety to its portfolio.
Both machines are decked out to deliver key performance, comfort, safety and efficiency benefits, and as with all products in the Merlo range have been developed with an underlying focus on the effective integration of innovation, technology and reliability characteristics.
Established in the Italian province of Cuneo in 1964, Merlo draws on a long history of innovative product development, with it having grown the scope of its operations over the years in line with its internationalfocused approach.
3500
Merlo states that its DBM line is decked out to tackle the most varied and demanding working conditions, with notable features including
structural solidity, ease of use, efficiency, productivity, manoeuvrability and reduced fuel consumption.
The DBM 3500 weighs in at 7.2 t (operating weight), has a drum volume of 5,000 l and a concrete yield capacity of 3.5 t, with its selfloading bucket handling up to 700 l of aggregate at each load cycle.
With a water pump flow rate of 250 l/min, the DBM 3500 supplies up to 3.5 m3 of concrete in less than 15 minutes, with Merlo advising the mixing drum ensures a high-quality mix due to its high geometric volume, reduced angle of inclination and a double spiral propeller with variable pitch.
Running a 75 kW Tier 4 Deutz engine, placed on the front side of the frame to maximise ventilation and assist with accessibility, the DBM 3500 has a maximum travel speed of 40 km/h. It comes equipped with portal axles (increasing ground clearance), 4WD with three steering modes and a hydrostatic transmission, and additionally features:
• Hydraulics on the self-loading bucket –lift and rotate the bucket as needed, with the bucket door automatically opening to unload the aggregate into the drum
• Hydraulic water system – comprises a self-priming pump with a 3-way diverter to the barrel, tank or 20 ft hose with washing lance, with a dashboard counter and ground controls regulating the amount of water delivered into the barrel and lance
• Ground controls – replicate controls found in the cab, with the operator able to control engine acceleration, water pump activation, drum rotation, barrel lift, chute lift and emergency stop
• Drum positioning – sees the drum sitting on a “fifth wheel”, allowing 180° lateral rotation, while the DBM 3500 can discharge concrete up to 330° around the machine, with the discharge chute having a maximum unloading height of 2.06 m
• ROPS-certified cab – is equipped with double controls split between front and rear, with the seat spinning 180° to access the rear controls, while a lever is used to reverse the direction of machine travel
• Operator and machine safety – when unladen, the barrel offset, in relation to the frame axle, compensates for the cab weight, supplying optimal front and rear visibility, while when fully loaded, the concrete mass is pushed onto the machine’s longitudinal axis, maintaining the gravitational centre CINGO M800 TD COMPACT TRANSPORTER
Merlo describes its Cingo transporters as being easy-to-handle machines which have been designed for working in tight spaces, with a low centre of gravity ensuring maximum lateral stability when operating on slopes and in rough terrain.
The M800 TD weighs in at 480 kg, and has a maximum capacity of 800 kg, with it running an 8.9 kW Honda engine with electric start (travel speeds of 2.5 and 4 km/h), and additionally featuring:
• Hydraulic transmission – with gear motors guaranteeing maximum torque transmission, while strong rubber tracks exert low specific pressure on the ground
• Operator comfort – the ergonomic positioning of the driver’s seat, along with the large operator platform’s shockabsorbing system, are designed to optimise driving comfort
• Controls – the M800 TD’s hydraulic track forward drive controls are designed for ease of use and to deliver maximum driving comfort, with the connected speed
regulator allowing the machine to perform specific processes that require a constant driving speed
• Efficiency – the M800 TD provides versatility in the handling of material in confined spaces and on steep and uneven terrain, and with a total width of 690 mm it is capable of transporting materials and passing through doors and gates and in narrow passages without any problems
• Safety – dynamic braking of the automatic parking brake, integrated in the gear motors, guarantees a lower stopping distance and maximum safety, while an overcentre valve improves uphill and downhill speed control
The Merlo Group Australia has an extensive dealer network throughout Australia, visit www.merlo.com to find your local dealer.
Volvo Construction Equipment’s new state-of-the-art telematics system, CareTrack is now fitted as standard on articulated haulers A25 to A60, wheel loaders L60 to L350, and excavators EC140 to EC950. CJD Equipment is now offering complimentary 10 years free standard CareTrack connectivity package on new Volvo GPPE machines when delivered from January 1, 2022.
Designed for productivity, CareTrack provides customers with a proactive way to manage their machines efficiently, saving them time and money. Customers with CareTrack can reduce fuel costs, optimise machine and operator performance, and manage service and maintenance to maximise uptime.
“Volvo Construction Equipment understands the importance of maximising machine uptime while controlling maintenance costs,” said Lindsay Daniels, CJD Equipment National Product Engineering and Training Manager. “CareTrack is a system designed with the customer in mind. Remotely, CareTrack facilitates tracking, monitors machine utilisation and fuel consumption, and manages maintenance costs through the unique service planning feature.”
With the rise of onboard telematics and remote connectivity, it is easy for operators and fleet managers to become overwhelmed by the mass of data being produced by modern construction machines. CareTrack provides customers with quality connected solutions in the most efficient way possible. Customers can now benefit from real-time insight into how their machine is performing, presenting the opportunity for customers to get the most out of their machines.
Caretrack transfers machine data via GSM mobile network and optional satellite, capturing thousands of machine data points, giving customers a powerful insight into the productivity of their fleet, and helping identify areas for improvement.
With a range of optional features, CareTrack effectively manages productivity and machines availability. With time and geofencing functionalities, customers can pinpoint their machine’s exact locations and record the machine’s hours.
Geofencing allows fleet managers to remotely monitor the geographic area, and automatically detect and track their machine’s locations. This can help fleet managers with transport restrictions in certain areas, weight and height restrictions on specific routes or tunnels, or restricted access in urban areas.
CareTrack’s optional anti-theft active tracking system reduces the risk of machine theft and keeps customers’ investments safe. Several triggers such as machine tampering, movement sensors, and geofencing functionalities detect unauthorised use of the machine. The machine can then be immobilised remotely.
Customers now have unprecedented insight into the productivity of their articulated haulers with the use of Onboard Weighing (OBW) and CareTrack. The OBW system monitors the payload weight and relays this information to load software integrated into the electronics of the machine. This prevents overloading, unnecessary machine wear and tire damage, and excess fuel consumption.
The OBW system also allows operators to keep track of their load, keep track of all transported material to each dump zone, keep track of all types of material and monitor productivity data with the possibility to set individual targets.
CareTrack also assists operators to use their machines efficiently by eliminating wasted time and fuel consumption, cutting operating costs, maximising profitability, and reducing CO2 emissions. In a user-friendly format, customers can learn about their machine’s fuel consumption, percentage of utilisation, and excessive idling to ensure a more efficient operation.
Last but not least, CareTrack offers the ability to provide crucial insight into the machine’s operating uptime at various points in its life cycle. This allows services to be planned and spare parts ordered in advance – all reducing downtime, a truly valuable resource.
Volvo Construction Equipment is well known as one of the world’s best manufacturer of safe, high-quality, and technologically advanced equipment – and CJD Equipment have been
proudly offering their products to the Australian market for close to half a century.
CareTrack is the next step forward in technological advancements, ensuring customers that their equipment is always performing at its very best. CareTrack allows CJD to provide advice and support, as efficiently as possible, helping customers get their
machines back to work as quickly as possible.
With a national supply network and 24/7 afterhours call-out service, you can rest assured CJD Equipment has the 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.
Despite not being mandated under environmental standards in Australia, government departments, major contractors and project managers keen to reduce their impact on the environment are increasingly giving preference to earthmoving equipment suppliers who can offer machines that comply with Tier 4 Final emission requirements.
Tier 4 Final engines reduce both Diesel Particulate Matter (PM) and nitrous oxide (NOx) levels by 90% when compared with previous generation Tier 3 engines.
Komatsu engines achieve this through a combination of Closed Crankcase Ventilation (CCV), optimised combustion systems, advanced electronic controls and heavy-duty exhaust gas after-treatment.
These include cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems, Variable Geometry Turbochargers (VGTs) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs)
A critical element of ensuring Tier 4 engines achieve such significant reductions in PM and
NOx level, is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), a regenerating filter that captures soot and ash.
Typically, it has a life expectancy of 4500 hours or more (depending on application, operating conditions and operator practices) before requiring replacement or a major overhaul, says Steve Bowling, Komatsu’s National Operations Manager – Manufacturing Support.
As a way of ensuring quality and supply reliability for customers, Komatsu has recently set up a remanufacturing facility for DPFs at its Fairfield head office in Sydney.
Komatsu’s DPF Reman process involves a series of quality assurance inspections and tests at all stages of the process to ensure they continue to meet emission and reliability standards, says Steve.
This includes high-pressure air cleaning and/ or baking of the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and the Catalysed Soot Filter (CSF), the primary elements that make up the DPF core.
In addition, the DPF Reman process covers 100% replacement of all gaskets,
Ultra-low emission diesel engines that power earthmoving equipment are fast becoming industry standard.hardware – essential due to the high operating temperatures in these units – along with pressure and temperature sensors to ensure reliability.
Komatsu’s DPF Reman facility caters for the 9 inch, 10.5 inch, 12 inch and 14 inch diameter core sizes currently used on Komatsu T4 engines.
“Changing over a DPF is a very straightforward process for our customers,” says Steve.
“We offer a fixed price, depending on the machine model, and it’s simply a matter of giving us the old DPF when we swap it out.
“Komatsu Reman DPFs are available through our service and parts departments throughout Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia, and cost approximately one-quarter to one-third the price of a new unit.
“And as with all our Reman products, Komatsu Reman DPFs are backed by our full factory warranty,” says Steve.
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. For a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Front-line industries worldwide use Komatsu solutions to develop modern infrastructure, extract fundamental minerals, maintain forests, and create consumer products. The company’s global service and distributor networks support customer operations to enhance safety and productivity while optimising performance.
A Western Australian man who has gone from being a full-time employee to now expanding a major Hydraulink franchise in Western Australia says he and his customers are benefitting from a corporate policy that benefits self-starters who bring in-depth industry knowledge and expanded skills to their local communities.
The Hydraulink hose and fittings organisation has a strong focus on education, integrity, and making the very best of employees who want to join the company and those who want to take the next step – instilling pride in achievement every step of the way.
As the Western Australian government continues to stimulate the economy to combat the effects of Covid-19, Hydraulink franchise owner Matt Palmer has been operating at full capacity, servicing machinery large and small.
To meet demand in Perth’s northern suburbs – for industries such as roads, rail, marine, mining, quarrying, waste management and infrastructure including civil engineering and construction – Matt is now upgrading to a full Hydraulink hose centre branch in Wangara, WA.
“Having a hose centre means I hold greater stock, and I can serve even more customers to keep busy industries in Perth’s Northern Suburbs moving, saving downtime and delay,” says Matt.
“Companies here value Hydraulink’s efficient, dependable service, and quality product that’s backed by total safety standards compliance and traceability. They are not going to risk putting their valuable machinery and plant into untrained hands, where problems cost time and money,” he said.
The hose centre will service the Wangara, Landsdale, Gnangara and Neerabup areas, with efficient 24/7 mobile service covering further afield. The centre forms part of Hydraulink’s network of more than 400 hydraulic service points across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, bringing essential, safety-
complaint hydraulic hose and fittings, as well as traceable service expertise, to industries requiring prompt, quality 24/7 service either on or off site
“Hydraulink has backed me every step of the way. They supported my franchise journey, and they’ve been really helpful in the upgrade to a hose centre, including assisting me with finding the perfect location. Hydraulink is a family-owned company with quality products, so we’re proud to fly the Hydraulink banner in the Northern suburbs,” said Matt, who says he made the decision to upgrade in partnership with his wife, where they both thought it would provide the stability needed for their young family, including their two boys.
Matt has more than a decade of experience as a hydraulic technician, in New Zealand and Australia, and moved to Hydraulink because of the company’s can-do ethos and the clear pathways that reward competence and dedication.
Hydraulink’s Franchise Pathway model is designed to encourage talented and hardworking employees to take the next steps with the company, with backing and support from a proven model.
“Matt is a real self-starter. He’s motivated, dedicated, talented and professional, so it has been no surprise that his franchise has been so successful. We’re thrilled to see him take the next steps in his career, and we have no doubt that Perth’s Northern Suburbs will benefit greatly from his expanded service offering,” says Hydraulink Australia Managing Director, Denis Matulin.
“This is our Franchise Pathway model coming to fruition. This is a great accomplishment for Matt, which has been well supported by WA State Manager, Andrew Lever, and the entire Hydraulink team,” he said.
Hydraulink Wangara can be contacted on 0417 946 501. Hydraulink Australia 1300 36 37 34 and Hydraulink New Zealand 0800 80 66 66.
RDO Equipment, Launceston’s local John Deere construction and forestry and Vermeer equipment dealer, has opened its new flagship Tasmanian dealership this week, creating more jobs and opportunities for customers in the region and across the state.
The new dealership is expected to contribute millions to the local economy through the $8.5M facility, offering employment opportunities and increased capacity to service more machines not only at the new branch, but remotely via its field service division.
RDO Equipment’s new CEO, Phil Canning, says this new dealership means big things for local customers, and reflects the Group’s strong commitment to embedding itself in the Australian market.
“We want to show our Tasmanian customers that we’re here for them, and we’ve got their backs. Our investment in this new location signals our support of the sectors that contribute billions of dollars to the Tasmanian economy – agriculture, roads, construction, environmental, landscaping, mining, and forestry sectors – across our two world leading machinery brands, John Deere and Vermeer.
“We now have greater capacity for not only more equipment in stock, but more parts on shelves and service support, all with a real focus on maximising our customers’ uptime,” Mr Canning said.
The new branch has moved 10 minutes down the road from the existing premises on Montague St, Invermay, to Australis Drive, Rocherlea and offers a much larger space for servicing and holding machines and parts.
“The new branch will start with four service technicians, working across six service bays,
which we will look to add to over the coming year, along with new sales, parts and admin staff. It’s great news for Launceston, our existing customers, and new customers right across the state.”
The new branch expansion also means a bigger focus on career development opportunities, with more training resources available for existing staff and new starters.
“With a larger footprint in the region, we will be looking to invest more into training and development for our employees, and also
investing in a strong apprentice program. We want to be bringing in more up-and-comers and help develop their careers throughout RDO Equipment in these exciting industry sectors.
“It’s so important that we have these training and development opportunities available for every one of our employees, whether you’re at the early stages of your career or well cemented in the role. A larger branch presence will help us bring in the resources to do just that,” Mr Canning said.
The opening of the new branch was celebrated with a Covid-safe event attended by local customers, industry leaders and staff, as well as Mayor of Launceston Cr Albert van Zetten.
“In my time as Mayor, I cannot recall a time of greater economic development in Launceston. Companies such as RDO Equipment are central to helping to re-invigorate the Northern region and we are witnessing unprecedented levels of investment and growth,” Mayor van Zetten said.
“I wholeheartedly congratulate RDO Equipment on the opening of their Tasmanian flagship dealership as well as their commitment to growing not only their workforce over the coming years, but their focus on upskilling their employees - particularly through their apprenticeship program.”
RDO Equipment’s new branch is located at 4 Australis Drive, Rocherlea. To find out more about RDO Equipment and the machinery available, head to www.RDOequipment.com.au
Bruce Vandersee (Executive Director, RDO Australia Group), Luke Chandler (Managing Director, John Deere AUNZ), George Pitt (Operations Manager – Launceston), Ted Vernon (General Manager of Operations – RDO Australia Group – John Deere & Vermeer) and Mayor of Launceston Cr Albert van Zetten cutting the official opening ribbon.
The Flipscreen is an Australian Made and owned high volume, patented, screening bucket that inexpensively and efficiently screens any material, on-site, for any industry.
Limitless in terms of material, the specially designed shape of the bucket provides seamless screening, with no moving parts in the bucket that can break down or get clogged up like so many others. This means that if you can scoop it up, you can screen it. It also means far fewer maintenance and breakdown concerns.
From corrosive materials and scrap metal to digging the fresh ground and working under water, the Flipscreen does it all. It is made to suit any size excavator, loader, skid steer or tractor with zero daily maintenance on new direct-drive models.
FlipScreens are replacing trommels and screening plants because they screen more at greater profits, are a portion of the cost, and have lower operating expenses. One carrier machine combined with a Flipscreen in a quarry and you are operational!
Grizzly screens become obsolete when faced with an attachment that handles the material once and saves on time. Take the screener directly to the product, not the product to the screener.
Flipscreens is truly portable, reduces hauling and labour costs, and can be changed between carriers very easily or even floated on a carrier between sites.
All industries requiring a primary separation process benefit.
From large mines to local landscape businesses, Flipscreens has reinvigorated the way sites are operated.
There’s a Flipscreen to suit any size carrier, including tractors, backhoes or telehandlers. Let’s have a look at more of the features that make Flipscreen so unique:
Screens range in size from 6mm to 300mm (custom sizes available). Screens are also changed on-site in less than 5 minutes with one operator and no tools.
Compared to other attachments on the market, Flipscreens has the largest screening surface area of its class. Take the total square feet of a Flipscreen mesh and do the math.
24 rpm is the rotation speed of the WL280 Flipscreen. The WL280 mesh is 110 square feet = 8’ X 12’. How many screening plants do you know with a 12 x 8-foot screen deck?
Not many, that’s right.
We are talking about the biggest fixed plant screen decks.
So, at 24 rpm, the Flipscreen puts the material over the mesh every 2.4 seconds (60/25=2.4).
It not only puts the material over this mesh every 2.4 seconds, but it also inverts it, or as they call it “flips” the material, which no other screener does. The WL280 is capable of screening 387yd³ per hour with cycles every 26 seconds.
Flipscreen’s direct drive models have the final drive motor attached directly to the screening bucket, eliminating chains, sprockets and internal moving parts.
• It is quieter to operate with non-stick hardwearing internal hopper liners and hydraulic cylinder actuated ratchets.
• Bolt-on hitch.
• More powerful drives are capable of 23200 Nm versus 9750Nm in current machines.
• Direct drive creates even smoother action.
• Integrated braking system.
• More steel where it is needed and less where it is not.
• No service or greasing daily.
• Service period is 1500 hours (oil change in the final drive).
• No chains to service.
• Stainless steel bearings requiring no service.
• The machine is lighter.
• The hitch is closer to the cutting edge, making it more compact to operate.
Allows for any hydraulic flow and pressure without modification of the carrier.
This has been designed by Flipscreen’s R&D team. And is a revolution in hydraulic attachments. Invented by Flipscreen Australia, July 2012.
Flipscreen’s compact Plate Mixer top is a solid screen with internal agitator paddles that allows materials to be mixed.
The mixer removes the need for multiple attachments and equipment. Just roll the mesh off the bucket and roll the mixer plate on.
The mixer top can also be used for: Dry Mix, Wet Mix, Fertiliser, Sand, Top Soil, Batching, etc. The mixer removes the need for multiple attachments and equipment.
Rolls with mesh on every rotation maximising productivity.
The Brush Kit opens the apertures on the mesh on every rotation, preventing the build-up of material and ensuring even screening of material.
Now that you know a little more about the design features of the Flipscreen, if you have any other questions, contact Josh Hartley, National Sales Manager at the corporate head office on 0435 318 065 or email hartleyj@flipscreen.net.
For more information: www.flipscreen.net
A free training seminar presented by International Greenkeepers is being held for local Council and sports field professionals on Thursday 7th April 2022 at the Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road Eastern Creek.
The seminar features an impressive line-up of some of Australia’s leading turf care and construction professionals. The program will focus on the latest advances and global best practice in turf maintenance, weed and disease control, construction and drainage for playing fields, sporting venues and public spaces.
Speakers include Peter Kirby on industrial herbicide options in the current climate. Peter has worked within the turf and ornamental industry in both commercial and technical roles for 19 years, holding positions with Nuturf, Nufarm, Bayer and Adama.
Toby Clarke is international sales director for Dennis mowers and Sisis equipment. He will discuss vertical action aerators, hydraulic driven scarifiers, self-propelled scarifier and de-thatcher and drum aerators.
Albie Leggett from Turf Care Australia is a specialist in disease management. Albie has 30 years sports turf Industry experience and is a qualified greenkeeper and golf course superintendent. He has a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Sydney and involved in technical research.
Steve Jacobson who has previously been a golf course greenkeeper and superintendent, will present a session on the latest technology for solving slope and grounds maintenance problems.
Ben Gibson will present the topic, “building a great safety culture through effective
leadership”. Ben appears on industry podcasts and national Turf Association magazines and a speaker at turf industry events in Australia, Asia New Zealand and the US.
Stephen Foster and James Evins of John Deere will speak on advances in smart technology and business lessons from the age of coronavirus.
Matt Goodbun and Michael Parsons will present advances in top dressing and line marking. Other program presenters include Bob Paddison from Turf Drain Australia, Weed Technics, Repco and International Greenkeepers.
Jason Hodges of Lawn Solutions Australia will facilitate the seminar program.
Daryl Davidson of International Greenkeepers said, “This is an excellent opportunity for
local government personnel to update their knowledge about the latest advances and technology in sports field care.”
The free seminar opens with breakfast at 7.30am, with a barbecue lunch at 12.30pm, followed by a hosted tour of selected exhibitors at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo.
With April 2022 not far away, many more companies supplying the earthmoving,
There is no better time to show your market the latest in products, services and technical solutions. The economy is forging ahead, fuelled by continued expenditure on major infrastructure projects and residential development.
Thanks to the expansive Expo site of the Sydney Dragway, together with its outstanding facilities for exhibitors and visitors alike, this is the place to be for any business that is serious about its place in the earthmoving and construction market.
Trade exhibitions always attract major decisionmakers across the industry, so if you want to get onto a customers’ radar as a supplier, Diesel Dirt & Turf represents a unique opportunity to connect with key people.
Every business needs to generate new leads and engage with prospects, who have planned their visit to the Expo to check out the latest in the industry. Even though potential buyers may not be ready to sign on the day, it is an outstanding opportunity for suppliers
to start building a relationship or cementing existing engagement with customers.
It’s not only new customers who will be attending. Many exhibitors return each year because it’s the best way to connect and maintain existing relationships with their customers and to discover changing needs or expectations.
By taking a stand at the Expo, you give your customers the assurance that you have invested in the market and provides an outstanding platform to explain your products’ point of difference.
If you are looking for the right time to launch a new product or service, Diesel Dirt & Turf is
construction and public space management industry have been snapping up larger sites at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo.definitely the place to do it, especially if your product is technically complex. There is no substitute for face-to-face interaction, as this allows customers to spend time asking the right questions and understanding the benefits of your sales proposition.
A solid supply chain with predictable, reliable delivery, parts and service is more important today than ever before. So your presence at Diesel Dirt & Turf is a great way to reinforce your total company offerings and how you support your customers, imparting this message in a relaxed and friendly environment which will go a long way to helping cement better relationships with your customers.
Expo Gold Sponsor Komatsu is back in 2022 to showcase its expansive range
of earthmoving equipment. Komatsu Australia has the largest factory owned branch network in the construction, mining and heavy equipment industry, with 42 branches and service depots, supported by 41 contract sites in key mining and civil projects, nationally. They will be showcasing their complete range of wheel loaders, excavators, backhoes, skid steers and much more.
A favourite drawcard for Diesel Dirt & Turf visitors is the annual auction by 2022 Sponsor, Pickles Auctions. Associate Sponsors include industry leaders such as Kerfab, Norm Engineering, CreditOne, XCMG, Cappro Pacific, Yellow Cover, Truck Assist and Earthmoving Equipment Magazine.
For exhibitors and visitors, the Sydney Dragway offers plenty of parking and great food choices throughout the Expo space. It is also an ideal venue to network with your industry associates.
If you would like further information on available exhibition sites, or are planning to attend, visit www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au or call Marti 0411 648 465 to be part of the action at Australia’s largest and most successful construction and earthmoving industry Expo.
The committee behind Dig Deep Event invites interested businesses within the construction, building wellness, and tech industries to join them as sponsors or exhibitors at the inaugural Dig Deep Event this coming May!
If you are an existing contractor, have a new product you want to showcase, machinery to show, or have a business that will benefit from the exposure at Dig Deep Event then get in touch with the committee.
They have a range of different packages available from Platinum, Gold, to associate sponsors with spaces still remaining for exhibitor stands.
The team invites interested businesses within the earthmoving industry to attend the inaugural Dig Deep Event to expand the market reach of their business. The day will attract an array of different buyers to cater to a variety of exhibitors.
The team behind Dig Deep Event are looking for interested exhibitors including:
• Access and lifting equipment
• Agricultural equipment
• Asset tracking and GPS services
• Buckets and attachments
• Cars
• Civil contracting
• Concrete pipes and pits
• Construction support services
• Drainage and site infrastructure
• Earthmoving equipment suppliers
• Equipment hire and rental
• Excavation equipment suppliers
• Food Vendors
• Finance and leasing
• Lifting solutions
• Lubricants and fuel
• Maintenance services
• Mining equipment
• Nursery
• Public amenities
• Public infrastructure works providers
• Pipe repair systems
• PPE and regulatory compliance
• Quarries and extractive industries
• Shoring and safety
• Wellness
To the men and women who have helped shape our cities, built the roads we drive and the bridges we cross, we are calling on you to enter our first ever Operator Challenge and show us what you do best.
The Operator Challenge is designed to test the skills of Victoria’s talented operators and to give them the opportunity to show Victoria that they have what it takes to be the inaugural Dig Deep Event Champion.
Operators from some of Victoria’s best civil contracting companies will compete for an impressive grand prize, together with bragging rights as being the inaugural Dig Deep Champion!
INCLUDE:
CRE Group, CJD Equipment, Hitachi, William Adams, Kubota, Solution Plant Hire, grays. com, eiengineering, Macer Advisory, along with associate sponsors – Cloudcon, Finlay, D Form Civil, Glendun, PNO Insurance, Build Socialcon, Cross The T Legal, and HALT with many more new sponsors to be announced over the coming weeks.
All proceeds made to the event will go to Beyond Blue, with the team setting a goal of raising $1 million!
Through Beyond Blue’s support services, programs, research, advocacy and communication activities, Beyond Blue is breaking down the stigma, prejudice and discrimination that act as barriers to people reaching out for support.
Anxiety and depression can be managed. Suicide can be prevented. That’s why Beyond
Blue exists and that’s why they are launching their event to support the vitally important work of Beyond Blue.
So, what can you do to help and get behind this amazing initiative?
You can reach out to DIG DEEP to show your support in a variety of ways:
• Become platinum or gold sponsor of the DIG DEEP EVENT – you will see your brand attached to the fundraising day and all media communication.
• Register to compete in the operator challenge.
• Take up an exhibitor space at the DIG DEEP EVENT so that you can share your wares with thousands of attendees and industry participants.
• Sponsor an event area at the DIG DEEP EVENT.
• Provide in-kind support to the team as they plan and deliver the DIG DEEP EVENT.
• Donate directly to Beyond Blue via the DIG DEEP online donations page.
• Like, share and otherwise get the DIG DEEP EVENT out there – @digdeepevent
The last two years have been a very challenging time for everyone in one way or another, and this is certainly true for the building and construction industry.
As the situation around rules and regulations has continued to evolve, so would many of your business plans and strategies.
Just when we thought the challenge was over, and we can breathe a sigh of relief, we head into unprecedented times of demand for people. With a $16.6 billion spend in 2020/2021 and $19.5 billion in 2023/2024 by the Victorian Government on civil infrastructure projects, the talent pipeline will be essential.
We are entering the toughest recruitment times in decades with existing talent pools exhausted. This is exacerbated by the border restrictions, and international recruitment currently restricted.
In this environment, there are three areas where businesses need to be proactive and develop people strategies around right now. These areas are
1. Attraction – Where is your talent pipeline going to come from? Social procurement?
2. Building Capability and Capacity –What flex do you have within your current workforce to build capacity and capability… what do you need to acquire and then build?
3. Retention (both People and Knowledge) – How do you retain your people and organisational knowledge in this competitive talent market?
To meet these challenges head on, CCF Victoria are implementing a range of programs and courses that you can take full advantage of to ensure your business is able to attract new staff, upskill existing staff and ensure you retain your work force to meet the demands of the forward works program in 2022 and beyond. These include…
- Construction Industry Skills Sets (CISS) Program - Individuals can do up to three $0 short courses in safety and civil… a value of up to $1,700 per person (approx.)
- NWP30219 - Certificate III in Water Industry Operations
- RII30920 - Certificate III in Civil Construction
- NWP40120 - Certificate IV in Water Industry Operations
- RII40720 - Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision
- NWP40120 - Certificate IV in Water Industry Operations & RII40720 Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision (Dual Qualification)
In addition, employers may also be eligible for a $28,000 subsidy (per employee) for NEW and existing workers under the Boosting Apprenticeship Scheme for both the Certificate III and IV Programs we offer. Please speak to CCF Victoria for further details. These Programs can be completed over a 12-month period (one day a month
training) with online and face to face options available.
CCF Victoria encourage you all to get strategies in place, and we are here to partner with you to see your organisation, and our industry go from strength to strength. Visit www.ccfvic.com.au for further information or phone 1300 DIAL CCF.
For all the restrictions that Covid-19 has brought into our lives over the past two years it also presented positive opportunities. Walking the dog, for example. Every day what’s more. And taking a walk with the family on a Sunday afternoon. Reading that book we’ve been attempting for years. Cleaning out the garage.
For some, it gave us the opportunity to declutter our businesses. It gave us time to carry out tasks carefully and completely. It gave us time to focus on what is an asset to our business and what is just an accumulated expense that we once thought we needed, but now is irrelevant.
And then we came out of lockdown and the pace of life picked up again. And before we knew it, we were back on the merry-go-round of life. The dog got bored in the back yard, stuff was dumped in the garage waiting to be put away and no one was bothered to go for a walk. But hopefully we can pull ourselves up, give ourselves a good talking to, and work out what habits we need to continue.
It’s time now to consider how we can refine the decluttering of our business. We need to consider our future plans for the business, check our expenses to make sure they are necessary, clear out our emails, declutter and organise the office, clean out the truck and most importantly limit social media contact to that which promotes us and doesn’t bring us down.
The beginning of the year is traditionally the time when we consider improving what we do and how we think, but if you’re fair dinkum you won’t wait, you’ll start today, whatever day of the year it is.
If you are a member of an industry association like Allied Earthmovers Association, it is time you start making the most of your membership.
Industry associations have a lot to offer, and if you take advantage of all they have to offer, your business will reap the benefits.
Here at Allied Earthmovers Association we are able to help members make the most of their business. Assistance with insurance, WHS compliance and WorkShare is just the beginning. However, networking with likeminded colleagues is probably the greatest benefit. The cost of joining is one of their costs that will give them a return many times over and by using only one of the benefits the Association has to offer will more than pay for the cost of membership. However, just because you pay your membership doesn’t mean you can sit back and wait for magic to happen. You need to exert some effort to unleash the opportunities.
We will be starting our Association year with a First Aid Course for members and their employees, friends and families. Completing
a first aid course should be considered a necessity for everyone, not just a compliance tool, and so we have opened up this opportunity for all.
We will be following up the First Aid Course with an information night with the Long Service Corporation. All business owners in the Construction Industry have a statutory obligation to provide employment information on all employees for the purpose of long service records, but the business owner will also benefit financially by being registered themselves. Why wouldn’t you take up this opportunity!
If you are an owner operator running your own business and would like to ensure the viability of your business, then why not join us? Give us a call on (02) 4732 5233 or email office@goldenbucket.com.au.
Ann Callaghan General Manager
Golden Bucket Allied Earthmovers Association
Have you caught the decluttering bug?
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