Earthmoving Equipment Magazine April - May 2022

Volvo EC250E

Marino Excavations Volvo EC250E excavator paired with Volvo's Dig Assist makes light work of any job throughout Cairns and across the far North Queensland region.

Primed for productivity, the EC250E achieves precise and premium performance through a quality Stage V engine system and smart technology. Delivering the ultimate combination of high productivity and low fuel consumption.

CJD Equipment and Marino ExcavationsPartnering for the long haul.

Images are for illustration purposes only.

“Apart from being a very sleek machine, the smoothness of operation with the Volvo excavators is the best out there.”

- Grant Marino, Owner – Marino Excavations, Cairns

A huge thank you to our Major Sponsors .

It has been a pleasure working with you.

FUTURE-PROOF PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY.

TIER 4 FINAL, NO DPF!

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.

DD&T GOLD SPONSOR KOMATSU WILL AGAIN SHOWCASE ITS TECHNOLOGY ADVANTAGES

Komatsu will again be the Gold Sponsor of this year’s Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo, to be held from April 8-10 at the Sydney Dragway, Eastern Creek.

As Gold Sponsor, Komatsu is the primary earthmoving and construction equipment supplier supporting the Expo.

Located on Stand B1, Komatsu will have one of the largest displays at the DD&T Expo 2022, with a focus on its Smart Construction project management offering, a new protype cabless electric-powered excavator and its low emission technologies, said Chris Moroz, Komatsu’s Sales Manager – Central Region.

“We will also be highlighting our technical solutions that contribute to environmental best practice and sustainability in construction products, as well as our commitment to diversity and inclusion in our workforce.”

Moroz said this was the second year Komatsu has been the Gold Sponsor of DD&T Expo.

“We are excited to again be the Gold Sponsor of this national DD&T expo.

“For us, this is a great opportunity to be showcasing our latest technology and innovations, in addition to our general products and support capabilities, to a national audience for the broader civil construction industry.

“Our presence here also enables us to speak to and listen to people in the industry about their needs and challenges,” he said.

“We are back here again, because each year we have been the Gold Sponsor, we’ve had great feedback and sales success from customers.

“We see this as a unique opportunity to market our latest technologies, products and services on offer in a more personal way, directly to the industry.

“And, importantly, our DD&T Expo Gold Sponsorship is an opportunity for Komatsu to really show our commitment in supporting the industry and the businesses at its centre,” said Moroz.

UNIQUE CONCEPT ELECTRIC MINI EXCAVATOR

A highlight of the Komatsu stand at the DD&T Expo will be its prototype all-electric mini excavator. This unique excavator has no cab and is fully remote-controlled. It also introduces a completely new concept in how earthmoving operations are carried out.

“Designed to lay the foundations for the next generation of fully electric construction equipment, this 3-tonne mini-excavator harnesses Komatsu’s technological expertise in electric forklifts and mini excavators,” Moroz said.

“It incorporates never-before-seen technologies on mini excavators, including lithium-ion batteries and electric – not hydraulic – cylinders.

“And visitors to Komatsu’s DD&T Expo display will have an opportunity to view this unique new machine, and see it in operation for themselves,” he said.

LOW EMISSIONS TECHNOLOGY

Komatsu has been a leading provider of ultra-low emission Tier 4 Final powered machines in the past few years.

With this technology increasingly widely accepted, the company is looking at ways to lower costs for customers.

One recent initiative has been the opening of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) reman facility at its Fairfield head office.

This provides customers with the opportunity to further reduce their costs of operation by purchasing completely reconditioned, fully warranted replacement DPF units.

“Komatsu Reman DPFs are available through our service and parts departments and cost

approximately one-quarter to one-third the price of a new unit,” said Moroz.

“Changing over a DPF is a very straightforward process for our customers.

“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.”

SMART CONSTRUCTION

Komatsu will use DD&T to showcase its Smart Construction suite of offerings that improve productivity and safety in the construction, quarrying and mining industries, through the application of unique technology and integrated products.

Developed to work across mixed-brand equipment fleets, Smart Construction provides a single ‘one-stop shop’ service and support solutions across all phases of a project’s lifecycle.

It captures information that can be used to solve problems or enhance operations and safety of a construction jobsite for customers and stakeholders.

A series of Smart Construction webinars for Komatsu customers across Australia and New Zealand will soon start monthly, running through to early 2023. These webinars will give users and potential users insights into what this technology can do for their operations and projects, and how to get the best from it.

“Representatives of our Smart Construction team will be onsite at DD&T, ready to talk to customers about how its application can deliver significant benefits to project and site safety, productivity, efficiency and the bottom line,” Moroz said.

KOMTRAX UPDATES

Early in 2022, Komatsu’s remote monitoring system Komtrax underwent an upgrade, which is being included in new machines.

Key features and updates include a new Single Sign On capability for added convenience and security, increased machine status visibility, additional safety features, operator ID and machine idling statistics.

Komatsu’s specialist Komtrax team will be on hand at DD&T to discuss these latest features, and how this technology can help customers improve machine management, safety and operational efficiency.

In February this year Komatsu celebrated the sale of its 20,000th machine covered by Komtrax across Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia.

“We were proud to deliver our 20,000th Komtrax-enabled machine to Sydneybased Cono Services in mid-February,” said Mary Jo O’Donovan, Komatsu’s Komtrax Systems Co-ordinator.

Cono Services took delivery of our latest model PC490LC-11, which incorporates Tier 4 Final emissions technology to significantly reduce the impact on our environment. And it features our latest generation of Komtrax, which lets us provide additional data for the benefit of our customers, such as seatbelt alerts and time-of-day idle information.”

Throughout DD&T, Komatsu staff and technical experts will be on hand to talk to visitors about all aspects of the company’s products and services, and to offer advice and assistance with any issues or questions.

“We’ll also be running competitions where visitors and their families will have the chance to win prizes, and take advantage of show special offers,” said Moroz.

“And we particularly welcome families to come and visit our stand, and find out more about Komatsu, its products and services, and its people.”

LOCATION

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

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

ACCOMMODATION

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

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

Food and drink vendors are located throughout the site and there is a licensed bar and hospitality area (social distancing rules apply).

TOILET FACILITIES

Toilet facilities are provided throughout the Expo site.

CAR PARKING

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

FIRST AID/EMERGENCY

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

As an Australian family owned company with global reach, Tilly’s is proud to stock over 43,000 new part lines for earthmoving machinery. The extensive range now includes the Maxiforce® range of small bore diesel engine parts.

From our base in Toowoomba, Queensland, we ship quality parts across Australia and around the world. See our friendly and knowledgeable team at Diesel Dirt & Turf!

EXHIBITORS’ LIST

OUTDOOR EXHIBITORS

Adjusta Mattress L1

AEG Powertools c5

AEI Insurance Brokers A23

Ag - Pride A13

Air Radiators pty ltd G5

Alemlube A24

All Lift Equipment Sales Pty Ltd D7

Allied Earthmovers Association A30

Arrow Machinery F10

Aspel Cleaning Equipment C8

Atlantic Oil B3

Attach2 R2

Auger Torque D8

Austas Hammers A14

Austramac Australia Pty Ltd A25

Bongaree Forks and Mini Loaders L4

Boss Attachments F2

Caltex J3

Cappro Pacific A18

Carter Wesco f10

CEA U1

CEG Sales and Service C4

Challenge Implements J2

CJD EQUIPMENT D11

CJ & LH Wiesner Pty Ltd Q3

Cleaner Cutting Systems R8

Clark Equipment B7

Colbrook industries R1

Continental U5

CR KENNEDY G1

Crosschem A20

Cub Cadet A15

Dean Trailers C7

Delta A9

Dennis , Sisis P6

Digga Australia A17

Diggerlid H4

Divalls Earthmoving and Bulk Haulage J5

Doherty Couplers and attachments

D9

Earthmoving Attachments Australia E7

Ei Engineering E4

Elite Attachments H6

Engcon J1

FAE Australia Pacific PTY LTD C1

Fernland Q6

Finer Hydraulics G6

Flip Screen Australia D1

Free 247 Lifestyle G2 G E T A2

Graysonline L3

Groundtec Equipment A10

Hatz Diesel Australia H2

Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia P7

Horsley Park RFS

Hogan Engineering F7

Indeco Australia Pty Ltd N2

international Greenkeepers Association Q2 Inlon Pty Ltd A5

ITR BEVRAGE CART SPONSORSHIP

ITR Pacific L2

Kanga Loaders B2

KOMATSU B1

Land HQ P1

Lark Utvs H5

Liebherr c2

Liugong D3

Longwall Hydraulics A22

Lucas Mill Pty Ltd Q5

Machine Control Australia G8

Makinex A11

Manitou Australia C6

Marxgold A8

Mecalac a25

Merimbula’s Sweet n Sour Lolly Shop

Miller Australia

Moody Kiddell and Partners E1

EXHIBITORS’ LIST

LANEWAY BOOTHS

Nepean Motor Group A26

Norm Engineering F1

NTI LIMITED E6

Onetrak D4

Orange Hire A6

Pickles M1

Porter Group B4

Position Partners D2

Prolube Lubricants A30

Record time A19

REPCO COMMERCIAL H1

RodRadar LDR J5

ROO ATTACHMENTS B6

Saliba Ag F5

SBA EARTHMOVING ATTACHMENTS A16

Selectweld Pty Ltd

Semco Equipment Sales B5 Showbag warehouse

Sleeptime F3

SMA MOTORS / CITY HINO P2

Spitwater A7

Steelwrist C3

Sureweld E5

Sydney Trucks & Machinery D3 TFI E2

Tillys Crawler Parts H8

Toyota Material Handling A1

Trucks N Toys J4

Tutt Bryant Equipment F6

Ventrac Australia P4

Veermer Australia / RDO Equipment K1

VIVA ENERGY AUSTRALIA A4

Weedtechnics A12

West-Trans Equipment K4

WesTrac u10

What-a-Hide G3

XCMG MINING EQUIPMENT AUSTRALIA V1

Yello Equipment D10

1300 Apprentice 91

Anglo Design Pty Ltd 55

Beilby Downing Teal 40

Credit One Finance 52,53

DEMO AREA FOR EDDIE Dial Before You Dig 12,13

DKG INSURANCE AND RISK EXPERTS 8 Finlease 71,72,73

Gaam Emergency Products 60 Harrison Barratt Group Pty Ltd 18

Hydraulink 32 Mayne Media Group 92,93

Power Transmission Technology 74

PRIME CREATIVE 1

REPCO

Safe Gauge 35

Shannons insurance 49,50 SOILBOND Pty Ltd 28

Stucchi Australia Pty Ltd 21, 21A

Trade Earthmovers/Earthmovers & Excavators 1

ASV MAX-SERIES POSI-TRACK LOADERS – THE NEW INDUSTRY BENCHMARK

ASV Posi-Track Compact Track Loaders have been a construction industry staple in Australia throughout the past decade. Already packed with exceptional and unique innovations, ASV Posi-Track Loaders are now even more impressive, with the addition of the new MAX-Series operator cabs.

Featured as standard on all ASV Posi-Track models sized 65 horsepower and above – including the all-new 132 horsepower RT-135 – MAX-Series cabs offer unmatched comfort, control, visibility, safety and reliability.

COMFORT

A primary focus of ASV’s redesigned MAX-Series cab is the maximum comfort of the operator, even on the longest and hottest days in the seat. Up to 30 per cent more head, shoulder and leg room, plus a fully adjustable suspension seat with four-way armrests, ensures operators of any size are comfortable and relaxed. In addition, the fully insulated cab with improved air conditioning and climate control stays cool and comfortable on hot summer days.

In addition, the unique suspension system found only in ASV Posi-Track undercarriages – including double torsion axles, heavy duty rubber wheels and, on the larger models, independently moving wheels –ensures that shock vibrations felt in the cab are significantly minimised, reducing operator fatigue and discomfort.

CONTROL

One of the first new features operators will notice when they climb in the new MAX-Series cab is the 7-inch colour touchscreen display. This innovative addition conveniently displays all vital machine information, offers a highquality view of the reversing camera, provides easily accessible service history and comprehensive maintenance schedules.

This gives operators a better understanding of their machine performance and condition, ensuring service and maintenance requirements are met and, subsequently, the machine performs to its brilliant best throughout a longer lifetime.

In addition, the overall layout and positioning of key controls, such as the joysticks and

throttle, has been updated to deliver a more ergonomic and operator-friendly experience. The machines are now easier and smoother to control than ever, and set a new industry benchmark for operator satisfaction.

Furthermore, not only has the machine control been improved dramatically, but so too has the operator’s ability to control their work environment. Bluetooth radio, high fidelity speakers, phone connectivity and device control are all new additions to allow operators to better enjoy their work day.

VISIBILITY

Working with various major blind spots is no longer a concern for MAX-Series operators –the new panoramic all-clear window designs offer 360-degree visibility and unobstructed views all around the machine; in fact, up to 52 per cent more visibility than previous models of ASV Posi-Tracks.

Plus, MAX-Series cabs include the industry’s first roof escape hatch for added operator safety and offer an optional heavy gauge Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS) level 2 cab, for unmatched cab impact resistance.

Furthermore, the high quality 7-inch display screen offers a premium view of the rear of the machine via the reverse camera to ensure maximum safety for both the operator and also bystanders, and also reduces the likelihood of reversing into hazards and causing damage to the machine or surrounding environment.

SAFETY AND RELIABILITY

As noted above, the MAX-Series range of Posi-Track Loaders from ASV are packed with many crucial safety features often unavailable on alternate brands of Compact Track Loaders.

The new roof escape hatch is an industry-first for added operator safety, the unobstructed panorama views and high-quality reverse camera offers excellent visibility all around the machine, and the optional level 2 cab guarding enhances falling object impact resistance.

In addition, the renowned ASV Posi-Track undercarriage remains as stable, reliable and easy to service as ever. With its unique torsion axle suspension, rubber track system and open wheel design, ground shock is significantly reduced, and dirt and debris are easily ejected from the undercarriage, meaning less wear and tear on the machine and a longer service life. Furthermore, the new MAX-Series cabs include fully sealed watertight fuse panels.

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

In addition to a premium nationwide service and parts network and 25 local dealers throughout Australia, ASV also offers an industry-leading 2-year bumper-to-bumper warranty on all Posi-Track Loaders, plus comprehensive operational support from our expert product representatives throughout the machine’s entire life.

To learn more about ASV’s range of Posi-Track Loaders, including the new MAX-Series models, visit www.asvaus.com.

MAREEBA SANDS BOOSTED BY EXCAVATOR UPGRADE

“About 12 years ago we kicked off the business,” Petersen said. “I used to work for other quarries nearby and I was doing a job in the area we are now when I noticed there was plenty of sand lying about. So, I made an offer to the landowner saying we should be selling this stuff. He and I went into business; started off quite shakily and we progressed from there.”

The small business has cemented itself as a stalwart of the community, treating each customer like a friend or neighbour.

Petersen said his local reputation of more than three decades was a great help in getting the business off the ground at first, but the struggles of small business didn’t avoid Mareeba Sands.

“Because I’ve been working in earthmoving and quarrying for a long time in the area, people already knew who I was when I entered this business,” Petersen said.

Mareeba Sands has been working away in far north Queensland for 12 years, sourcing sand and hauling it across the region. But as owner Ron Petersen told Quarry, a quality service like Mareeba relies on quality products from CJD Equipment.

Mareeba Sands owner, Ron Petersen and CJD Equipment Mackay regional sales manager, Jarrad Bennett.

The economical EC220D uses 14 to 16 litres of fuel per hour.

“But the biggest challenge was still trying to win everybody over, even though people knew me and what I’d done. Also, with all our permits, managing the landscape was another challenge as we tried to work within the guidelines.”

The Mareeba Sands site covers four different blocks, an hour west of Cairns, varying from 12 hectares (ha) up to 40ha.

Digging no further than three and a half metres deep, Mareeba Sands has been able to supply washed coarse sand, fill sand, fine sand, clay, and concrete pre-mix to customers across the region.

Using Petersen’s own truck and dog combo, plus some “subby” fleets on bigger jobs, Mareeba Sands has proudly developed a portfolio of happy customers.

“The biggest, most constant job would be sand for the previously done sewerage works for the Mareeba Shire Council. That was quite an extensive job for them,” Petersen said.

Other Mareeba Sands jobs have been in Chillagoe and Georgetown, up to 400 kilometres away.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the service and support

of CJD Equipment, of which Petersen couldn’t speak highly enough.

“It’s been good dealing with CJD,” Petersen said. “When you first start with ordering something, you change your mind, you go home, you change your mind again. But the financing with CJD was brilliant, professional, and super quick to deal with. We changed our mind on something at lunchtime and got an email back in the afternoon saying we were good to go – try that with a bank!”

Petersen had been running an older Volvo EC210 excavator for about eight years at Mareeba Sands. The machine had totalled nearly 11,500 hours of operation.

After a more than serviceable stint from the old machine, Petersen decided it would be more cost-effective to look into an upgrade, instead of forking out more cash on repairs.

So, in rolled the EC220D excavator and Petersen couldn’t have been happier with his decision.

“The EC210 was a reliable machine with brilliant fuel economy. We were extremely happy with its stability and performance. But the new EC220D is even better,” Petersen said.

The EC220D comes with a range of extras on the previous model which pleasantly surprised Petersen. They included an auto-greaser, seat covers, UHF radio, flashing light, windscreen guards, fall protection guards, handrails, reversing camera and a heavier counterweight.

In effect, Mareeba Sands has been allowed to run at full throttle, while saving a bit of cash on repairs and fuel.

“It’s doing everything I expected of it and that’s why I went with a Volvo once again,” Petersen said.

“The other reason is their fuel economy is like no other machine I’ve used. It would average between 14 and 16 litres per hour, depending on the application.”

And while all the trimmings can help a small business like Mareeba to excel for its community, sometimes a little bit of extra care and respect is all that’s needed to maintain a strong partnership.

Petersen attested to this and praised CJD Equipment and Volvo Construction Equipment for their ability to treat “little old Mareeba” as an equal.

“I was pretty impressed because, being a small operator, you’d think they’d hardly even see you,” Petersen said.

“You can imagine, they’ve got clients who’ve got 30 or 40 machines. So, for them to look after a small operator so well is something they can take their hat off to.”

Learn more about the great range of Volvo excavators at The National Diesel, Dirt & Turf Expo from Friday 8th April to Sunday 10th April. Visit CJD Equipment at site number D11 for more information on how these versatile machines can work for you. Contact CJD Equipment on 1300 139 804 or visit www.cjd.com.au.

Mareeba Sands uses the Volvo EC220D excavator to make light work of its resource.

C.R. KENNEDY: TAILORED EARTHMOVING SOLUTIONS

C.R. Kennedy is the sole and exclusive distributor for Leica Geosystems in Australia, with it focused on harnessing the innovative and industry-leading iCON product portfolio to deliver tailored machine control solutions for the earthmoving industry, supported by its comprehensive national after-sales network.

The iCON range spans a variety of different technologies, comprising integrated hardware and software solutions, which can be deployed across different aspects of earthmoving operations, enabling greater efficiency when applied to both individual applications and as a component of wider workflows.

Among the Leica Geosystems range, the iCON iGG3 grader, iCON iGD3 dozer and iCON iXE3 excavator systems provide operators the tools required to get the job done faster and deliver an enhanced level of control, with each of these systems having been designed to speed up operations across a range of applications.

The iGG3 optimises material usage, bringing design surfaces and alignments virtually in the cab, breaking operators free from stakes or hubs, with it delivering millimetreaccurate control of the blade, making it ideal for all fine-grading applications.

Similarly, the iGD3 can dramatically increase machine utilisation and productivity by optimising material usage on earthmoving and fine-grading contracts, with it capable of being used with a wide range of sensors, combining ease of use with flexibility and a powerful and intuitive user interface.

Meanwhile, the iXE3 guides 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, allowing operators to rapidly excavate to the reference design.

Software is a key component of the iCON portfolio, with the iCON site software providing users smart, customised positioning solutions for road construction and civil engineering

applications, having been designed to improve speed, performance and accuracy.

iCON site comprises an innovative and straightforward software design, featuring an easy-to-understand and intuitive interface, with it providing for seamless integration into all iCONstruct sensors and controllers.

In addition to this, iCON site provides for smooth data integration into the iCONtrol machine control portfolio and workflows, and a customisable solution to increase productivity by focusing on site-relevant tasks.

Paving the way for real-time monitoring, Leica Geosystems ConX cloud-based collaboration tool allows operators to efficiently manage all their connected construction projects and to share job-related data with all stakeholders.

ConX additionally enables visualisation and validation of localised reference models, along with survey data and constructed data with powerful analysis tools for monitoring and reporting site productivity.

Based out of Port Melbourne, C.R. Kennedy’s national network includes major state offices in Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth, along

with regional offices in Cairns, with its workforce comprising over 250 staff, including product specialists, qualified surveyors, support staff and factory-trained service technicians.

Having been appointed the distributor for Leica Geosystems in Australia in 2001, C.R. Kennedy works under Leica Geosystems guidelines, with its service departments fully authorised by Leica Geosystems and departments located around the country.

An important component of C.R. Kennedy’s offering is its national after-sales service network, which includes training, service and repairs, along with technical support.

W H E N VO L U M E M AT T E R S D12

DIGGER LID LAUNCHES DIGGERSHIELD KIT: NEXT-LEVEL WEATHER PROTECTION

Aussie company Digger Lid has been steadily building its reputation as a provider of simple, yet highly effective machine and operator weather protection products in recent years, and has recently added to its growing portfolio with the introduction of its top-of-the-line DiggerShield kit.

Digger Lid, the brainchild of brothers Joel and Luke Pfitzner, started out with the basic premise of keeping digger seats dry in the wet weather, and has since grown to sell thousands of specialised enclosures, Digger Lids, both in Australia and around the world.

The heavy-duty line of Digger Lids have been designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, not only providing weather protection, but also allowing operators to keep on working through in the wet, with the rapidly growing range now fitting over 60 machines.

Now, with the introduction of the DiggerShield kit, Digger Lid has developed a product for canopy machine owners and operators that places a priority on comfort and versatility, and which will provide protection in a range of conditions, including heat, rain and wind.

DIGGERSHIELD KIT: SUPER-TOUGH PANELS PROVIDE PROTECTION

The Australian-made-and-designed DiggerShield kit comprises super-tough 6mm polycarbonate sheets, available in a clear or tint option (the pricing is the same), which Digger Lid laser cuts and folds to the machine model’s specific canopy profile. The DiggerShield – which has been designed as a semi-permanent and longer lasting

offering to Digger Lid’s standard enclosures –consists of two to three panels per machine, spanning a rear, right-side and half panel on the entry side where compatible.

In addition to this, the DiggerShield, which is designed for DIY installation, features:

• No drilling or modifications – with the DiggerShield featuring various external brackets, designed to clamp to the machine’s canopy, and only then bolt to your screen’s pre-drilled holes.

• Machine float and transportation – the DiggerShield can be towed and transported (customers should refer to the Digger Lid website for specific information).

• Maximum visibility – the DiggerShield has been designed to deliver machine operators an unhindered line of sight.

• Canopy removal – is still possible with the DiggerShield installed, paving the way for ultimate versatility and machine access.

• Convenient machine access – the DiggerShield is designed to allow full access to a machine’s fuel refilling, engine bay and other assorted components.

• Everything included – all required panels, hardware and accessories are included for installation (with the DiggerShield supplied as a complete kit).

DIGGERSHIELD COMPLEMENTS

EVOLVING PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

The DiggerShield is suitable for the following excavator models: Kubota U17-3, Yanmar ViO17 Kobelco SK17SR (four

post canopy), Bobcat E20, Bobcat E17z and Wacker Neuson EZ17, with Digger Lid advising that its products are made to order on a weekly cycle.

Digger Lid states that the DiggerShield is perfect to pair with its compact and lightweight Quicky cover, designed to provide a universal fit for excavator, tracked loader and skid steer seats/controls, with it allowing for quick and easy coverage in wet weather.

The Digger Lid portfolio also includes its Original Excavator Cover, a PVC tarpaulin soft cabin enclosure, designed to provide the comforts of an enclosed cab machine, available in four universal sizes that fit over 60 different machines.

In addition to this, Digger Lid ranges: universal engine covers, skid steer loader covers, mini loader covers, micro excavator covers, and a variety of accessories and apparel.

Further information on both the DiggerShield and wider Digger Lid portfolio can be found at: https://www.diggerlid.com.au/

DITCH WITCH CEA MAXIMISING PROFIT AND PERFORMANCE

Horizontal Directional Drilling is a demanding industry and having the best equipment on the market has been an essential part in the success of Bench Direction Drilling and Civil. Bench Civil purchased its first Direction Drill in 2010, the JT2020. Twelve years later and several machines on, Barry is still a proud and loyal Ditch Witch customer maximising on profit and performance.

“When looking for a machine in the civil and construction industry you need to take a range of factors into account, such as longevity, service and durability, so when seeing what Ditch Witch had to offer, it was a pretty simple choice,” Barry explains.

“The longevity of the Ditch Witch machine is second to none. They are built tough to last through the long and often difficult days in the civil industry.”

The JT20 Directional Drill is packed with plenty of power in a compact size, and the JT20 helps you work faster so you can tackle more jobs. The JT20 has a turbocharged 74hp engine that produces less noise for the operator. It’s among the quietest in its class –while its slim yet durable profile allows you to tackle more jobs in tight places.

“We need machines we can rely on and people who understand the machines, allowing us to maximise results day in, day out. When working in the industry you understand how important it is,” Pringle says.

“For over 12 years, Ditch Witch CEA have been able provide great aftersales service, manufacturers backup and service/parts availability.”

The JT20 Directional Drill has an advanced cooling system that uses five fewer gallons

of fluid than competitive systems offering exceptional efficiency and less environmental impact, while an industry-best cruise control system simplifies drilling and back reaming.

“We have a range of Ditch Witch machines that have been purchased over time. Our collection has grown into eight various machines, which all allow us to make difficult days easier, not to mention one of the main advantages is the training of the machines with purchase,” Barry says.

Bench Direction Drilling and Civil are located in Adelaide and have proudly provided Directional Drilling and Civil works for over 12 years in partnership with Ditch Witch CEA. If you are interested in how Ditch Witch CEA can assist your next civil or construction project get in contact with them today.

Visit: www.ditchwitchcea.com.au

Ditch Witch CEA has been maximising profit and performance for Bench Directional Drilling and Civil since 2010 with a range of machines. Barry Pringle, Director of Bench Directional Drilling and Civil explains.

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.

FECON FORESTRY EQUIPMENT: BUILT TOUGH FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS

Fecon is one of the world’s premier manufacturers of forestry attachments and machines, globally renowned for building the toughest attachments in the industry.

Made in the USA using premium quality steel, Fecon products are engineered and constructed with unmatched durability and power to tackle any Australian timber. Furthermore, with Fecon Australia – your national supplier of the full range of Fecon forestry equipment – customers throughout Australia receive world-famous forestry machines backed by only the best local service, support, parts and sales.

Perhaps the most legendary member of Fecon Australia’s attachment family is the iconic ‘Bull Hog’ mulching head. Designed to be powerful and versatile, Fecon Bull Hog mulchers are perfectly engineered to suit a wide variety of track and skid steer loaders offering anywhere from 53 up to 191 LPM of hydraulic flow, plus mini and large excavators sized from 5 tonne and above.

Fecon Bull Hogs satisfy the three key requirements in a forestry mulcher: durability, performance, and value for money. Innovative engineering, premium quality steel throughout, reinforced rotors and mulching teeth and exceptional welding processes combine to deliver strength and longevity. Variable motor speeds also maximise the overall performance of Fecon mulchers. For lighter material loads, higher RPM means more bites per second and finer material sizing – whereas with heavier material, the Bull Hog delivers more rotor torque keeping the rotor turning when other heads may stall.

In addition, now available is Fecon Australia’s all-new FTX200 mulching tractor. Engineered as a tough, formidable and versatile tractor

running high flow hydraulics, the FTX200 can tackle many different tasks including mulching, tree felling, bucket work, grappling, asphalt grinding, mowing, stump grinding and so much more.

With 200hp under the bonnet, 303 LPM of hydraulic flow, optional winch, steel tracks and a robust D3 undercarriage with its massive 457mm of ground clearance, the FTX200 is a perfect solution for many industries needing a supremely powerful and versatile forestry tractor.

Equally impressive is the comfort and control offered by the FTX200 – within its extremely spacious, ergonomic and climate-controlled cab are easy-to-use joystick controls and a 7-inch

touchscreen IQAN controller, allowing operators to control everything from air conditioning, to the intelligent Fecon Power Management System, and machine troubleshooting. Quite simply, you may never find a more comfortable and efficient operator cab on a track loader or dedicated forestry tractor.

Fecon Australia also offers a diverse range of vegetation management attachments, including the revolutionary low RPM Stumpex for skid steers, track loaders and excavators; an auger-style stump grinder that uses slower, yet more efficient, grind rotations to minimise mess and deliver a clean end-product. Furthermore, Fecon’s innovative tree shears are perfectly designed and constructed to nimbly shear, lift, bunch and carry multiple trees with a single attachment, also compatible with CTLs, SSLs and excavators.

Fecon Australia also offer a nationwide parts, service, sales and support network for all machines and attachments, ensuring that any scheduled or unplanned downtime is resolved quickly and easily. Don’t wait weeks for replacement parts or service requests as is standard for many forestry equipment suppliers in Australia – Fecon Australia will have your support needs catered to swiftly and efficiently.

For more information about Fecon Australia’s range of forestry machines and attachments, visit www.fecon.net.au or call the national information line on 1300 332 661.

HATZ fiPMG OFFERS COMPACT SOLUTION FOR DC POWER GENERATION

The Hatz fiPMG generator is opening the way for more product developments that will result in compact power units not thought possible for such performance and reliability previously. This is because the Hatz fiPMG generator can be integrated into an engine design, and this gives it a big advantage over a conventional or mounted design because the fiPMG generator reduces the space it requires by 90 per cent and is also 85 per cent lighter in weight.

The Hatz fiPMG generator is the ideal option moving forward to ensure the operation of critical applications in hybrid systems, as a power outage backup or by providing a continuous power supply.

Hatz’s new flywheel integrated permanent magnet generator is an exciting product gaining a great deal of attention with customers worldwide. In fact, it won the Diesel Progress Summit 2020 award for “New Power Technology”.

The fiPMG is a unique concept that combines the Hatz E1 technology, the worldfirst electronically controlled single cylinder diesel engine, with a PMG generator installed where you expect to find the engine flywheel. It’s this design combination that results in a much lighter and more compact generator package, which can operate at variable speeds based on the load required. Another well though-out advantage of the fiPMG and is available in both AC and DC at multiple voltages. The result of this overall design makes this the ideal solution for battery charging and any hybrid applications.

The fiPMG technology that Hatz has developed will quickly accelerate technologies into a new direction over the next few years into a growing interest in electrification and hybridisation of current standard equipment.

The scope of electrification/hybridisation available with fiPMG technology includes a wide range of products and will in some cases include making changes from a typical diesel engine to full electric or hybrid units.

Hatz fiPMG technology can extend the range and battery life while keeping weight and physical size in compact dimensions. The application has the potential to reduce the cost of electrical components keeping product releases profitable and affordable.

The Hatz fiPMG is already being installed into power units that require extremely reliable performance such as 5G Smart Towers, mobile light towers, solar and conventional mobile road signal equipment, mobile communications infrastructure, electrical lifts, motor homes, battery driven equipment and

Conventional vs. permanent magnet. Compared to the conventional design of the engine/generator unit, the flywheel-integrated permanent magnet design is 315mm shorter and 17kg lighter.

auxiliary power units in construction equipment or on-highway truck applications.

With the Hatz fiPMG, instead of converting from a diesel engine application to fully electric, you can use a very small diesel engine

as a battery charger that can increase your range while also reducing the size of your battery pack to compact.

To see more about Hatz’s fiPMG technology visit www.hatz-diesel.com/en/fipmg/

The Hatz fiPMG flywheel-integrated Permanent Magnet Generator when integrated into an engine takes up less space and weight than conventional designs.

Your Efficient Hybrid Solution.

Hatz Flywheel-Integrated Permanent Magnet Generator (fiPMG)

An extremely compact solution for hybrid power generation. Numerous applications will benefit from the advantages of the Hatz fiPMG.

Efficient and reliable ¬ Hybrid systems eliminate the range anxiety of an all electric solution while offering a lower total cost of ownership than conventional generators.

Critical size and weight

¬ Reduced dimensions and weight up to 90% compared to a conventional generator.

Highly sensitive electronics

¬ Consistent clean power for sensative electronic equipment and enables variable speed based on load.

Reduced total cost of ownership

¬ Reduced run times and engine speeds reduces fuel consumption and maintenance cost.

E1 engine technology

¬ Full electronic engine control allows for integration with battery management systems and connectivity to telematics and IoT.

NO COMPROMISE ON RELIABILITY

Engineered to deliver greater power and productivity.

Packed with features, the Hitachi Wheel Loader range is big on Operator Comfort, Safety, Fuel Efficiency, Productivity and Reliability. Ask for a machine demonstration on your site and compare the performance today. Contact your local branch or visit www.hcma.com.au

NO PLACE FOR THE SECOND RATE – INDUSTRY LEADER

HYDRAULINK’S GUIDE FOR TOP OPERATORS INSISTING ON TOP SERVICING TO STAY THE DISTANCE

The performance, sophistication and operating pressures upon hydraulic equipment have increased significantly over recent years, and the price of earthmoving equipment has moved ever upwards as it gets better and more capable.

With individual items of earthmoving equipment costing well into six figures – and the biggest items and fleets into the multi-millions – it makes simple economic sense to maintain the expanded capabilities of this advanced technology to ensure safety, efficiency and uptime on the job.

“Servicing top equipment is a job for top hydraulic service technicians – why would you risk first-rate equipment with second-rate servicing?” says Hydraulink Hose and Fittings General Manager of Contracts and Major Projects, Ian Morris.

“After conducting industry research, we’ve found that people managing earthmoving equipment and other hydraulically actuated machinery are seeking key attributes from a hydraulic supplier, to maximise uptime and safety,” says Mr Morris.

These attributes include:

1. Proven top standards of training, safety and WH&S, as well as accreditation exceeding ISO and SAE standards. To foster a culture of safety, Hydraulink has developed its own in-house training program and facility – the Hydraulink Academy, which ensures all Hydraulink technicians, plus distributors and customers, are well-prepared, confident and up to date with all of the latest safety, environmental, and best practice processes, including several Nationally Recognised units.

2. A strong and expanding mobile fleet with hundreds of locations Australia-wide. Hydraulink’s 24/7 Mobile HSST (Hydraulink Sales and Service Technicians) fleet provides prompt service to save machinery downtime. The Hydraulink model includes a 24/7 call centre that can dispatch a technician (with a fully stocked vehicle) quickly from any one of the hundreds of locations throughout Australia.

3. The resources and backing of a successful national network. The Hydraulink network is a team of dedicated and loyal people with a depth of expertise built from scrupulous staff, franchise, and leadership selection policies.

4. Familiarity with customer sites and diverse machinery. Typically, a skilled technician familiar with multiple machinery in an industry

With hydraulically actuated machinery costing typically from hundreds of thousands to more than 2 million each, servicing is no place for penny pinching today to produce big problems tomorrow.

can do a better job in less than half the time taken by a less skilled or DIY operator.

5. A robust and reliable supply chain. Hydraulink was able to manage the recent pandemic disruptions with proven supply chain strategies – including industry-best forecasting, purchasing, stocking, warehousing, and logistics performance.

6. Cost-efficient prices. Along with consistency of work, pricing consistency is always a top priority in competitive industries like earthmoving. No one wants cost surprises at the end of a job, or different prices for the same job.

7. Top standards of predictive maintenance to help obviate unexpected downtime. An ability to anticipate the unexpected, ingrained by long years of experience and delivering deep value might never appear on an invoice, but it does on the profit and loss sheet. Hydraulink provides machine health checks and has a HydraTag value add service available that can note and store all of a machine’s hydraulic hose and fitting products data. This allows for the quick and easy look up, replication and replacement of vital parts in the event it’s needed.

8. A positive, can-do attitude. Hydraulink has been in the industry since 1945 and believes that a model focused on safety and quality is much better than half measures or quick fixes that ultimately cost more than they are worth and push the risk of bigger trouble just a little further down the timeline.

9. Proven, locally focused and owner-operator and franchise business models. Hydraulink’s franchise, distributor and branch model delivers specialised skills required by industry, particularly in areas where there is a locally specific type of industry that uses specialised and expensive machinery.

“Overall, Hydraulink’s main aim and purpose is to keep industry, equipment and valued customers working – minimising the cost of downtime and maximising lifespan and uptime for expensive machinery,” says Mr Morris. No race to the bottom

“One of the interesting things to emerge from the feedback was that customers were typically not interested in a race to the bottom, focused solely on the cheapest job. Sure, they wanted competitive pricing, but not at the expense of sustainable machinery performance. They were highly focused on having the reassurance of a partner that would be there with the right skills when they were needed,” says Mr Morris.

“Getting the best out of machinery is a deep value equation, not hit-or-miss, or DIY, to save a dollar today for a big risk tomorrow. Why would you do that, risk a fortune to save a dollar? Why would you spend your time doing a job someone else can do better, faster and with greater certainty? You may quickly discover that, if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.”

Hydraulink Australia 1300 36 37 34.

Hydraulink New Zealand 0800 80 66 66.

JOHN DEERE EXPANDS UPON PRECISION TECHNOLOGY SUITE WITH SMARTGRADE

REMOTE SUPPORT

John Deere is pleased to offer SmartGrade Remote Support on its newest SmartGrade dozers, motor graders and compact track loaders. SmartGrade Remote Support, which includes both Remote Display Access (RDA) and Wireless Data Transfer (WDT), will be available on most SmartGrade products for six years from the factory invoice date.

Currently available on the 700L/750L/850L SmartGrade dozers, the SmartGrade motor graders and the compact track loaders, these features enable dealers and customers to work together to remotely transfer project files to machines and troubleshoot any grade control-related issues. This is important for more efficient management of large GPS equipment fleets. Real-time remote visibility and management of important grade control parameters can save valuable troubleshooting time and keep machines up and running.

Dealers can also use the latest technology for operator training and troubleshooting.

“Offering real time support to our customers is key, especially when it comes to the Precision Construction lineup. By incorporating technology like SmartGrade in our dozer lineup, we are helping to boost job site productivity and efficiency while enhancing the capabilities of our operators,” said Sean Mairet, product manager grade control, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “There isn’t always a one-size-fits-all solution, and contractors need options to pair the right technology with their business needs. This is where customers really benefit from the flexibility of our grade management path.”

SmartGrade Remote Support is crucial in providing customers with the most efficient method of troubleshooting and increasing uptime and enables the dealer to remotely

monitor and support the machine from miles away. Wireless Data Transfer provides the ability to remotely send updated design files to the machine, saving trips to the job site. Any user with a MyJohnDeere.com account paired with the machine can utilise remote support.

To learn more about SmartGrade Remote Support, as well as the full range of John Deere Precision Construction technology solutions, scan the QR code.

John Deere adds SmartGrade Remote Support to precision technology suite.

A

NEW DAY.

UNEARTH A NEW LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE.

A NEW DEERE.

Renowned worldwide for their outstanding quality and reliability, John Deere mid-sized excavators are designed and built using state-of-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.

JohnDeere.com.au/ANewDay

EARTHMOVING MACHINERY PARTS MANUFACTURED

AND DISTRIBUTED BY ITR, DIRECT TO YOU

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

With an extensive geographical footprint of warehousing and workshops in the Australian market and industry experts in each region, ITR Pacific can offer a superior customer experience across a full range of Undercarriage Parts, Rubber Tracks and Pads, Ground Engaging Tools, Repair Parts, Tyres and more.

The unparalleled range held locally, and support from the Group, means ITR Pacific can confidently sell into all sectors of the Australian market, including Mining, Construction, Plant Hire, Agricultural and Forestry Industries.

UNDERCARRIAGE

ITR has one of the most complete undercarriage ranges on the market, covering components such as track chains, shoes, rollers, sprockets, idlers, and segments, which are manufactured within the group’s Asian manufacturing facilities. A fundamental characteristic of the ITR Undercarriage product line is that its production is entirely managed in-house: from the component design to the choice of material through to production. Numerous quality controls throughout the manufacturing process are carried out to ensure all products meet O.E.M standards.

an excellent quality level and the necessary confidence to brand the product ITR. ITR can today confidently say that they carry one of the most complete product ranges for Mini Undercarriage.

GROUND ENGAGING TOOLS

ITR Pacific stocks a full range, covering most makes of Ground Engaging Tools. The product line comprises all the necessary wear parts for manufacturing, reconditioning, and maintenance of bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and graders. The heterogeneous mix consists of teeth and adapters, cutting edges and end-bits, single and double bevel edges,

RUBBER TRACKS AND PADS

Rubber Tracks and Pads have recorded strong and steady growth since first introduced into the group in the 1990s. ITR Rubber Tracks are the fruit of a long road of design studies and tests in the field, which has achieved

blades, fasteners, and all other components necessary for excavation or levelling, such as rippers and blades for graders.

MACHINERY REPAIR PARTS

Thanks to careful design, technological innovation, and strict process controls, ITR Repair Parts have always been synonymous with high quality. This product range is continuously developing, not only by building up a strong distribution network but also through acquisitions that have helped expand their product offering to cover engine, hydraulic, transmission and frame parts.

OTHER PRODUCTS

ITR has developed a range of smaller product lines to meet the market demand. ITR Radial tyres are the best in their class for the mining industry, heavy-duty construction, and industrial applications. Alongside tyres, there is hydraulic hammers, aluminium loading ramps, portable track presses and fuel tanks, buckets for excavators and loaders, and much more.

FULLY EQUIPPED TRACK SHOPS

Expanding passed just the parts, ITR Pacific is targeting a new opportunity with the introduction of two new Undercarriage, Workshop facilities into both their QLD and NSW operations. This new development will allow ITR to use all their knowledge and expertise to ensure the process of track lengthening, shortening, new link assembly bolts ups, and pin and bush turns are streamlined and efficient for a quick turnaround time. As ITR does not compromise on the quality of the parts, they have certainly not compromised on the quality of their Track Workshop Equipment, ensuring that each job can be carried out professionally and exceed their customers’ expectations.

ON-SITE UNDERCARRIAGE INSPECTIONS

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

ITR Pacific offer professional Undercarriage Wear Inspections and detailed reports using the ITR WearTek Plus reporting system, allowing customers full access to their track reports through a mobile app and online web portal.

RUBBER TRACK INSTALLATION

With the acquisition of DTN Equipment in July 2020, ITR Pacific expanded their sales and service arm to include the fitment of excavator and skid-steer loader Rubber Tracks, along with other Undercarriage Parts such as Rubber Pads and Sprockets. The ITR Mini Undercarriage installation team currently consists of two service vehicles that operate in Southeast Queensland, with plans to expand this service to their Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth branches. With over 53 years of invaluable industry experience and qualified specialists, ITR will use the successful and well-known DTN model when establishing its fitment services Australia-wide.

The substantial growth ITR has seen over the last 12 months is nothing more than a reflection on the Australian Earthmoving Industry and the services and parts that it is demanding. To find out more about ITR’s full product offering and services, give them a call on 1300 820 214 or visit their website

For more info visit www.itrpacific.com.au

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

24-TONNE JCB 467 ZX WHEEL LOADER

There are many reasons to choose the top-of-the-range 24-tonne JCB 467 ZX loading shovel. It’s productive, efficient, easy to maintain and extremely durable.

For ultimate reliability JCB constructed their wheel loaders using only the very best componentry, including a Cummins Engine, ZF driveline, Bosch Rexroth pumps and Parker Valve block.

The whole of the 467 ZX front loader went through an extensive development program to ensure its durability, including 1.2 million test cycles.

Computer-aided finite element structural analysis to make these wheel loaders last longer – the front-end loaders are used in every corner of the globe – JCB tested the 467 ZX to ensure optimum operation in climates ranging from -20°C to 50°C.

The 467 ZX front loader has a large diameter loader and articulation pins; bushes have secondary seals, which block dirt. Operating 467 ZX front-end loaders is ergonomic. Forward/reverse direction control is a fingertip away, and electro-hydraulic servo controls make loader end handling easy. Return-to-dig, arm height limitation and float functions are always at hand. Disabling these aids is easy too.

This wheel loader’s ZX geometry means that shovel corners are highly visible for excellent manoeuvrability. In fact, visibility is excellent all-round on this front loader, with a threepiece laminated front screen, heated exterior mirrors and a sloping rear bonnet design.

The spacious 3m 3 cab on the 467 ZX front-end loader is fitted with a full-colour LCD dash display with analogue dials. The 467 ZX’s cab is isolator mounted for quietness and it’s positively pressurised to keep out dust. JCB’s smooth ride suspension system reduces shock loadings and spillages.

The JCB 467 ZX front loader’s 216kW Cummins engine is mated to a 4-speed ZF fully automatic powershift transmission and standard-fit limited slip differentials for stepless gear changes and smooth operation.

For the ultimate in precise, efficient control, the JCB 467 ZX front loader’s innovative variable displacement pumps feed a load-sensing valve block, only consuming power on demand. They can provide 395 l/min hydraulic flow for maximum multifunctioning performance.

Clever electronic management can control progressive clutch cut-off on the 467 ZX front loader. This equates to efficient, productive loader control. The feature automatically diverts maximum power to the loader hydraulics for optimal truck/hopper loading duties.

Unloaded spool valves lower the 467 ZX’s loader arms lower under gravitational – not hydraulic – force. Meanwhile, wheel speed braking means brakes rotate at wheel speed

for heat and drag reduction, as well as improved fuel economy.

The 467 ZX loading shovel’s axles use planetary drive with cylindrical roller bearings for minimal power and heat loss. Meanwhile, wheel speed braking and a low drag coefficient provide maximum power with low fuel use.

467 ZX front loaders have class-leading service and maintenance access, and long 500-hour service intervals. A side bay offers easy access to pressure test points, transmission filters, emergency steer pump, batteries and isolator.

Greasing is convenient from ground level and wide-opening gullwing doors provide easy access to this wheel loader’s engine bay and cooling pack areas.

The 467 ZX front-end loader has a variable speed hydraulic cooling fan that automatically reacts to ambient temperatures and adjusts the fan speed for maximum economy. A single-faced wide core radiator helps to maintain the optimum operating temperature.

JCB’s Electronic Management System controls tractive effort via the front loader’s transmission to reduce service brake wear and fuel consumption.

Auto-idle technology automatically reduces the engine speed of the JCB 467 ZX wheel loader when not in use, which helps reduce fuel consumption and prolong engine life.

For more information call 1300 522 232 or visit www.jcbcea.com.au/machines/wheel-loaders/ 467-zx-wheel-loader/

MINIMUM SWING

MAXIMUM SPACE

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.

EXCAVATOR ATTACHMENTS

Tried. Tested. Trusted.

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

Done right, with Rhino

KOBELCO SK850LC-10 DELIVERS SUPERIOR POWER AND PERFORMANCE FOR HEAVY-DUTY JOBS

With the recently released heavy-duty XD Series further reinforcing the manufacturer as a powerhouse in the 35 to 50-tonne class, Kobelco is pleased to be able to offer even greater levels of productivity and efficiency to its customers in the 85-tonne class with the arrival of the new SK850LC-10, available now for delivery in Australia.

The SK850LC is Kobelco’s largest production-class excavator and features cutting-edge power and efficiency capabilities.

With a base operating weight of 80,800kg and built to withstand the rigours of the toughest jobsites around the world, the SK850LC takes durability to the next level.

Kobelco is known worldwide as a leading excavator specialist, with more than 90 years of manufacturing and design experience.

The SK850LC has been a productivity leader in the 85-tonne market segment since its global introduction in 2006.

With over 150 units sold worldwide, the SK850LC has undergone extensive development, while being put to the test in demanding quarry and mining conditions across the globe – including some of the

most extreme sites in China and India –to prove the machine’s hardworking and durability credentials. After demonstrating its exceptional abilities, the SK850LC in its latest generation has demonstrated that it will be well suited to a variety of work sites across Australia – in particular, quarry applications, small to medium sized mining operations and large-scale civil infrastructure projects.

Driven by a powerful turbocharged engine, which meets current international emissions standards, the SK850LC is ready to tackle heavy-duty applications while remaining highly fuel efficient. The 12.9 litre turbo-charged and intercooled Hino engine delivers an outstanding 380kW of power for superior strength and unbeatable performance.

Class-leading work volume is achieved with powerful bucket breakout force and arm tear out forces, delivering fast digging cycle times and impressive productivity. Combined with an intelligent hydraulic system built for speed and control, the SK850LC delivers an impressive average fuel consumption of under 50 litres per hour – substantially boosting operating profit in a production environment.

Climb stockpiles with ease with the SK850LC’s class-leading drawbar force, ensuring plenty of tractive power for the most extreme site conditions. Three heavy-duty track guides are also installed on each crawler side frame to further increase undercarriage durability.

Kobelco excavators are highly regarded for their advanced technology in fuel efficiency, and the SK850LC is no exception. The enhanced hydraulic system design reduces energy loss to ensure outstanding performance by minimising hydraulic pressure resistance. The SK850LC also features Kobelco’s latest cooling system – a hydraulically-driven twin fan engine cooling

Kobelco Construction Machinery Australia is pleased to announce the arrival of the SK850LC-10 – the latest and largest excavator to enter Kobelco Australia’s product line-up.

system. This hydraulic version also prevents over-cooling by use of integrated sensors to reduce the speed of the twin-fan unit, helping to improve fuel economy and reduce noise. A variable-geometry turbocharger contributes to lower fuel consumption, and a new selective catalytic reduction system decreases NOx emissions by 80 per cent to provide low operation emissions.

Select the best operation mode for the job at hand, with three work modes the operator can choose from H-mode, S-mode and ECO-mode – allowing for minimum fuel consumption while optimising digging efficiency. From the comfort of the cabin, the operator can also pre-set multiple attachment settings. The SK850LC comes factory equipped with bi-directional primary auxiliary hydraulics, along with proportional handcontrolled tilt/rotate piping and quick hitch piping as standard.

Benefit from best-in-class lifting and digging performance; with the 8.25m and 3.m heavy-duty boom and arm, the SK850LC has an operating capacity exceeding 10.6 tonnes at a reach of 11.6m. The SK850LC is also available in a mass excavation (ME) specification, with a shorter boom and arm as well as an optional heavier 3000kg counterweight – for applications which call for maximum bucket capacity and digging productivity.

Operators can look forward to staying safe and comfortable in the SK850LC, regardless of the work at hand. The air suspension seat, combined with a 25 per cent reduction in lever control force reduces operator

fatigue during long hours of operation, while added climate control outlets and a spacious cab interior provide a comfortable work environment. The high-level of pressurisation in the large, sealed cab keeps out dust and ensures a quiet environment for the operator. A standard 12V port and AUX jack is provided, while the standard Bluetooth integrated stereo system allows the operator to stream audio.

The operator friendly colour multi-display LCD screen uses easily recognisable graphics for quick navigation of important information, including fuel consumption and maintenance intervals. An intuitive one-touch attachment mode switch lets the operator confirm the proper configuration at a glance.

A FOPS top guard along with a front window guard and swing flashers come standard for enhanced jobsite safety, and in addition to the rear view camera, an optional right-side camera can be fitted, for easy safety checks around the machine.

Maintenance on the SK850LC is simple and cost effective to reduce downtime. Easy access to maintenance data from the operation management system greatly improves ease of maintenance scheduling and ensures a long service life, while easy access to the cooling unit, engine compartment and electrical components ensure convenient day-to-day maintenance.

The new and improved hydraulic fluid filter in the SK850LC is regarded as the best in the industry, with a new cover that prevents contamination even when changing filters. Pressure sensors at the inlet and outlet of the hydraulic oil filter monitor pressure differences to assess filtration performance, triggering a warning on the cab display screen if the filter needs to be replaced.

A standard onboard grease gun on a retractable reel makes greasing the SK850LC a fast and convenient task. Kobelco has also installed a standard onboard refuelling

pump to make the process faster and safer. The variable gauge crawler allows for the retraction of the crawler to reduce the width for easier transport, with the ability to re-extend when on the jobsite for better stability. Four disassembly and transport configurations are also made possible to further allow for easy transport to and from the jobsite.

To further improve machine uptime, like all Kobelco heavy excavators, the SK850LC is equipped with Kobelco’s K-Assist system, a remote diagnostic and troubleshooting system that allows your local Kobelco dealer to provide advanced support of the machine without the need for a technician to be present. The system monitors key system operational data, which can provide real-time and historical monitoring of the engine and hydraulic systems. The system enables your Kobelco dealer to perform diagnostic testing and to upload machine software without the need for a technician to be present – significantly reducing potential machine downtime.

Commenting on the introduction of the SK850LC-10 into the Australian market, Kobelco Australia’s General Manager of Product & Distribution, Mark Johnson said: “The SK850LC-10 is the largest excavator in our product line-up and comes with a tried and tested reputation from some of the harshest environments around the globe. We look forward to cementing our place as the premier supplier of heavy-duty excavators in the Oceania market. The new SK850LC builds on the impressive reputation Kobelco is building more recently in heavy excavators with the launch of the XD series in the 35 and 50-tonne classes. This new SK850LC allows us to participate in quarry, small to medium mine sites and large civil infrastructure applications with a machine that is more productive, more durable and ultimately will make our customers more profitable.”

The Kobelco SK850LC-10 is available at dealers around Australia and New Zealand from March 2022. To locate your local authorised Kobelco dealer, or to learn more about Kobelco excavators, please visit www.kobelco.com.au.

CLASS-LEADING LIEBHERR MACHINES ON SHOW AT THE DDT

Since its foundation in the 1960s, Liebherr has been known as a pioneer in high-quality, breakthrough innovations. With their passion, freedom, and visionary mind-set, the people at Liebherr will continue creating fascinating solutions and setting new standards. In the area of product development, the Liebherr Group is already working today to create the solutions for tomorrow.

Liebherr has decades of experience in the development and production of classleading machines – innovative design and major components all produced by Liebherr. All Liebherr equipment can be deployed with great efficiency and performance in the most challenging and difficult environments. Liebherr machines work with immense power, and advanced technology reduces fuel consumption, enhances performance, productivity and delivers maximum precision, outstanding performance, and exceptional durability.

In the area of earthmoving, Liebherr offers an extensive program of hydraulic excavators, crawler tractors and crawler loaders, telescopic handlers, wheel loaders, and articulated trucks. The highest quality standards are achieved by in-house production of main components which are developed and manufactured by Liebherr.

At the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo 2022, Liebherr-Australia will be exhibiting Liebherr Earthmoving equipment including a large XPower® wheel loader, a Generation 8 dozer, a Generation 8 crawler excavator, a wheeled excavator, and a telehandler.

assistance systems for the XPower® wheel loaders to optimise safety and comfort in everyday wheel loader operations. Active personnel detection at the rear is one of the new assistance systems and it was awarded the 2019 EuroTest Prize and Samoter Innovation Award 2020.

GENERATION 8

DOZERS – OPENS UP NEW HORIZONS

LIEBHERR WHEELED EXCAVATORS

LIEBHERR

WHEEL LOADERS - THE GENUINE ALL-ROUNDERS IN WHEEL LOADER TECHNOLOGY

XPower® is an innovative machine concept that combines performance, fuel efficiency, robustness, and comfort. The power-split driveline combines hydrostatic drive for short loading cycles and mechanical drive for long distances and driving uphill. Thanks to innovative and practical design solutions, XPower ® wheel loaders work with the greatest level of efficiency in all applications and provide a higher level of productivity for Liebherr customers. The Liebherr-XPower® driveline with Liebherr-Power-Efficiency (LPE) achieves a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 30%, which helps to lower the overall operating cost considerably. XPower® wheel loaders received both iF Design Award and Red Dot Design Award 2016. In addition, in 2019 Liebherr presented a comprehensive package of multiple intelligent

Generation 8 dozers have been built on the proven, electronically controlled, continuously variable drive with ECO mode. Liebherr has combined the new electronic operating hydraulics with the latest advanced man-machine interface to ensure the machine performs at the maximum performance and brings the most efficiency and intelligence to customers. The customers can decide the power of the machines to match with material volume so they can save resources and keep costs down, at the same time, increase the efficiency of the machine.

NEW GENERATION OF CRAWLER EXCAVATORS

The latest generation of crawler excavators –Generation 8 has higher digging forces and greater traction of the undercarriage. The swing torque of the upper carriage was also optimised. These improvements to the excavator result in higher performance and improve fuel efficiency. The new generation is equipped with comfort cabs, which improve the machine operator’s experience. The cabs feature suspended pneumatic seats, sophisticated climate technology, a user-friendly 7” touchscreen display, and a retractable windshield.

Liebherr wheeled excavators are machines that combine high productivity and compact flexibility with excellent levels of economy – and all this comes as standard from the factory. The 4-cylinder construction machinery engines satisfy latest Stage V emissions regulations, which have resulted in further reductions in diesel particulate and NOx emissions – down to almost zero. Liebherr achieves that using an innovative exhaust system with a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and a particulate filter. The in-line engines develop their power via high torque at low engine speeds and for our customers, that translates into big savings on fuel consumption.

LIEBHERR TELESCOPIC HANDLERA POWER HOUSE

Liebherr telescopic handlers (telehandlers) show their strengths as powerful universal machines: fast and manoeuvrable with powerful operating hydraulics to efficiently transport and pile up large quantities of material. The tried-and-tested hydrostatic travel drive with infinitely variable acceleration without shifting gear and good manoeuvrability guarantee quick work processes even in limited spaces. It is designed for maximum performance in various applications.

Visit Liebherr at Diesel, Dirt & Turf Expo 2022 at outdoor exhibition space no. C2 and speak to their product specialists to obtain further information on their equipment.

LIUGONG BOOST IN SYDNEY, NSW CONSTRUCTION MARKETS

The growing profile of LiuGong construction equipment is in for a further boost throughout the Sydney and wider New South Wales industries following the appointment of new dealer, Pacific Machinery Group, in Wetherill Park.

One of the largest construction equipment manufacturers in the world, LiuGong’s wide range of excavators, rollers, and loaders in particular, are becoming increasingly recognised on Australia’s construction landscape, with many operators putting the trend down to the brand’s “affordable quality and performance’’.

The company also prides itself on its continued investment into research and development with its equipment, even during the most difficult times.

LiuGong’s excavator range spans machines from 1.8 tonne to 50 tonne, the rollers extend from 3.2 tonne to 24 tonne and the loaders include machines from 10 tonne to 30 tonne.

“Tough equipment for a tough world’’ has been the catchcry behind LiuGong’s impressive penetration in Western Australian and South Australian markets with over 450 units now sold, they’re becoming increasingly tough to compete against.

They are renowned for their build quality, featuring Cummins engines and ZF transmissions, simple operation, particularly in relation to their electrical systems, as well as their performance and comfort.

Liam King, General Manager with Pacific Machinery Group, said he was excited to be offering the LiuGong line-up to the Sydney and broader construction markets throughout NSW.

Liam has spent the past two years as General Manager of Earthmoving Attachments Australia, where he worked with all major machine brands and industry sectors.

He said he was thrilled with the move from effectively parts to whole goods and was looking forward to driving exceptional service and support through to customers.

Pacific Machinery has wasted no time supporting one of the contractors for the Western Sydney’s International Airports development with a LiuGong 856H wheel loader, complete with parts and servicing support.

Liam said “value for money’’ was the real strength with LiuGong machines.

“They are simple, and customers recognise they are buying a quality machine that does the job at a very affordable price,” Liam said.

“The fact that you can get a brand-new excavator, for example a LiuGong 930E (30-tonne), under warranty for the same price

as some competitor models with 10,000 hours is why they’re increasing in popularity.

“There can be efficiency and safety benefits. With LiuGong loaders, you get a quick coupler at the front, whereas with other machines it’s an add-on. Remaining in the cab and pressing a button enhances operator efficiency and improves safety.

“You also get peace of mind with a two-year, 3000-hour warranty as standard, backed up by Cummins technicians, with the option for an extended warranty.”

The LiuGong construction equipment range is now available for immediate delivery from Pacific Machinery Group with full parts and service backup.

For further information, Liam can be contacted on 0491 222 284.

Liam King, General Manager of the newly appointed LiuGong dealership in NSW – Pacific Machinery Group, believes the reliability and affordability of the brand has contributed to its success in the construction machinery market.

LiuGong 915E (15-tonne) and 922E (22-tonne) excavators at work on site in Perth, WA.

LiuGong Rollers, Wheel Loaders and Excavators on display at a recent demonstration day held in Perth, WA.

TOGETHER WE DEFINE TOMORROW

LiuGong keeps up with you. Through day and night, tight deadlines and harsh conditions, LiuGong machines are the reliable choice to never stop working.

TIME IS FREE BUT IT IS PRICELESS

How MB Crusher’s units help construction sites to finish the job within the deadline.

Imagine a construction site inside a large urban centre or a heavily populated metropolitan area. Now picture how you’d organise that job, especially taking into consideration the restrictions imposed by the location such as time limitation of when you can run your equipment, logistic difficulties due to traffic restrictions, and noise and dust emissions management.

Let’s not forget one of the more current problems: the problems with finding raw materials and obtaining them in a timely manner. In short, finishing the job by the deadline is challenging. If not well-managed these limitations will have a strong impact on the construction site, causing delays, which will become penalty fees, expenses increase, unforeseen downtimes and lastly inconvenience to traffic and residents.

There is never enough time!

But let’s stop creating fictional scenarios and see what happened on three different construction sites in urban centres that had similar problems. Three different construction sites, on three different continents, with three different solutions.

Construction site number 1: how to speed up the entire process

In Epinay Sur Seine, France, in a demolition site in the middle of houses and busy streets. Blocking off the road or slowing the traffic for long periods for the trucks to access the jobsite was not feasible. On the other hand,

to carry on working they needed foundation filling material in large quantity and right away. Objectively there was plenty of inert material around coming from a partial demolition of one of the buildings. So what they did was crush down all the reinforced concrete, bricks, and plaster with a BF80.3 crusher bucket installed on a Yanmar SV100 excavator to create filling material ready to reuse on-site.

The result: they completed the job within the deadline.

Construction site number 2: how to avoid waiting for trucks and creating traffic Moving on to the Jiangsu province in China at a peculiar construction site located above

a subway station where traffic or having too many trucks entering and leaving the construction site would have created an inconvenience and lengthened completion times. They needed to quickly recover suitable material to fill the new structures. Like the previous case, they also installed a BF80.3 crusher bucket on their excavator. This time it went on a Sany 215 and crushed the rubble – no more needing to wait for materials and no need to have trucks entering and leaving the construction site; all of which benefits the flow of traffic.

Construction site number 3: how to have materials immediately ready for use In upstate New York a house collapsed due to heavy snowfall. The roof could not withstand the weight of the snow and when it collapsed it destroyed the entire porch. What was left needed to be dismantled and then they had to rebuild the house. With a John Deere 180G and an MB-G1200 grapple, the company in charge of the job sorted the lumber and stacked it in one truck while creating a separate pile for all of the concrete. They then used an MB-S14 screening bucket to screen the rock and soil to have material ready to use to construct the new foundation. All of the materials remained within the construction site.

“ But time is lost, which never will renew” the Roman poet, Virgil, wrote more than 2000 years ago.

While you might think that reading these stories may have stolen time from work on the construction site, we prefer to think that you invested your time into reading these few lines to give you an idea on how to save later on.

How to turn your telescopic handler into a real crusher.

Having only one option is not an option. This quote could not be more true when talking about urban construction jobs. It is on these sites that telehandlers have seen growing popularity. They are rapidly becoming a solid choice for getting work done in tight urban areas because contractors see the benefits these multi-purpose machines can offer. Lift. Move. Place. Crush. Sift.

It’s pretty simple really, the ‘zoom boom’ can be used as a work platform or a mini-crane to lift loads or move and place materials like bricks, gravel and lumber. It can also fit MB Crusher attachments and become a jaw crusher to reduce rocks or debris lying around, or a screener to sift material and clean up the site.

Telehandlers are purpose-built for material handling. But why limit the possibilities when by plugging in an MB Crusher attachment to the hydraulic system you can extend the duties that can be carried out by just one machine and one operator.

What makes telescopic handlers a great companion of the MB’s Crusher unit is the operator’s choice. When equipped they can serve as substitutes for backhoe loaders, and together they can guarantee better mobility and less expensive performances.

Hence, connecting a telescopic handler with an MB Crusher attached is the winning choice, so let’s see which type of units can be mounted.

MB-L line – these attachments will transform the telehandler into a jaw crusher. Four models to choose from and the carrier will scoop up debris, rocks, bricks and concrete and crush all rubbles into valuable backfill material. Yes, the same telehandler used to move material around will also begin to produce aggregates with ease.

MB-HDS four different models will change a telehandler into a machine able to select and reduce a multitude of materials. From excavated soil to demolition debris, twigs, bark plasterboards, whatever is present at the site can be repurposed immediately. The innovation

of this line is how effortless the rotating shafts can be changed at the site. With one HDS unit and different rotating shafts, the telehandler can be considered a multi-purpose system able to process a high- quantity of materials.

MB-LS two rotary screening buckets that will be ideal when precision is needed, nothing bigger than the size of the hole will pass through. The chosen grid size can be changed at the site by unscrewing a few bolts.

Incrementing your possibilities could not be easier – just equip your telehandler with an MB Crusher unit and open new job opportunities and grow your business. It’s easy and worth it.

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

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

QLD

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

VIC

BALLARAT TRACTORS

155 Learmonth Street, Ballarat, VIC, 3350. 03 5334 2444. www.ballarattractors.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

RAISING EXPECTATIONS

WA

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

SERVICE

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

MOTION MACHINERY

1/10 Dickens Place Armadale, WA, 6112. www.motionmachinery.com.au

MKP DIGS DEEP FOR YOUR FINANCE NEEDS

DDT is an important event on the calendar of the Australian earthmoving industry. As the nation’s largest industry expo, DDT brings together vendors and buyers from across the country and exhibits the most exciting equipment and latest technologies.

Moody Kiddell & Partners were proud to win the 2021 Australian Earthmoving Consultancy of the Year and are glad the expo is running this year.

As the Equipment finance specialists, MKP are excited to be on-site with a large stand alongside many of the world’s major equipment manufacturers and their Australian distributors and representatives. MKP are ready to dig deep at this year’s expo to help with your financing and insurance needs. Chat with MKP for:

• Equipment Finance specialist knowledge.

• Solutions to cashflow issues in your business.

• Access to MKP’s long-standing relationships with equipment manufacturers.

• A better understanding of the lender appetite of your business.

• Access to low doc lending.

• Strategies to grow your business while you have taxes owing.

• 40 years of industry experience.

• A better understanding of your business’ growth goals.

• Opportunities to grow your business through leverage (debt).

• Pre-approved finance if you see your next equipment purchase at DDT. Valid for three months and obligation free.

• A team that will act as partners with you to achieve your business goals.

Please Note: MKP is COVID safe, including options for remote document signing. MKP does not necessarily require financials or a deposit to secure funding.

Plan for Success with a Pre-Approved Finance Limit A pre-approved finance limit gives you the

confidence to take on new work by allocating funding for equipment purchases and saves you valuable time by streamlining your finance application process. Having your finance in place also allows you to negotiate on a ‘cash’ purchase with equipment suppliers and speeds up the purchasing process. It is obligation free and you aren’t penalised if you don’t use the total amount you’re approved for, giving you peace of mind and the opportunity to negotiate with confidence.

At Moody Kiddell and Partners, they are here to make your life easier and to assist with all your finance and insurance needs.

MKP look forward to seeing you at DDT to cater to your business needs.

MOODY KIDDELL AND PARTNERS –

PARTNERS WITH YOU

Feel free to give MKP a call on 1300 000 657 and one of the team will be happy to answer any questions you may have, or email them at info@mkpgroup.com.au.

MKP to add genuine value at the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo this April.

We Dig Deep

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 Kiddell. Partners With You

THREE REASONS WHY FINANCING A TRUCK COULD MAKE GOOD BUSINESS SENSE

For many owners and operators of equipment who are starting a business – the question about truck ownership is high on the list. Purchasing a truck can be a serious initial outlay of cash, but the good news is there’s a range of finance options to suit small businesses. Here’s three reasons why you should consider financing your vehicle:

REASON 1: RANGE OF TRUCK FINANCE OPTIONS

There are several finance options, with different terms to consider to find a business vehicle finance option best suited to your small business situation. But how do you make the right choice? You’ll need to consider your cash flow, budget, and the finance terms as a starting point.

Finance Lease

A finance lease is where the finance lender retains ownership of the vehicle while you enjoy the benefits of ownership of a commercial vehicle. You make monthly lease payments until the term is up, whereby you can either pay off the remaining value on the lease and take full ownership, trade in or pursue other finance options.

Commercial Hire Purchase

This involves hiring a truck from a lender for an agreed period. After making fixed monthly repayments over this period, you may take

ownership of the vehicle at the end of the term, provided you have paid off the loan in full.

Chattel Mortgage

A Chattel Mortgage sees a financier lending you the capital you need to purchase a vehicle. You immediately take ownership of the vehicle, but the lender takes out a mortgage on the vehicle as security on the loan. Once the contract is over, the mortgage is removed.

Novated Lease

For small businesses with employees, knowledge of this truck finance option is essential. It allows employees to use their pre-tax income to lease a vehicle. The employer is responsible for arranging for the lease payments to be taken directly from the employee’s salary, meaning they can reduce their taxable income.

Business Loan

A standard business loan is another option to fund the purchase of a truck. You have

a range of options available with typical small business finance, including a line of credit and a basic term loan.

REASON 2: POTENTIAL BUSINESS TAX BENEFITS

Depending on how much you spend and the business finance option you select, your business may receive tax benefits. For example, under current temporary tax depreciation incentives, if you operate a business with an annual turnover of less than $50 million, an immediate tax deduction could be claimed on trucks and mobile plant up to $150,000.

How much you can claim as a tax deduction varies greatly depending on which finance option you choose, the asset itself and the size of your business. Make sure you ask your financier and consult your accountant before making any decisions, so that you can leverage these business tax benefits and know what you’re entitled to claim.

REASON 3: THE FLEXIBILITY

There are a wide range of finance options, and most options enable you to select a repayment schedule that suits your small business needs and budget.

The length of the term is important because it can influence how much money you must pay in order to gain ownership or, on the other hand, for loans that give you ownership up-front, the term is also important to consider for forward planning of payments.

Most truck finance options have terms of between 12 months and 5 years, but if it’s extra flexibility that you need, then you’ll want to have a finance lease right at the top of your consideration list. This option doesn’t give you equity in the truck, but you can trade-in your truck at the end of a lease for a new vehicle and have the options to purchase the truck or walk away entirely. Most of the business tax benefits are available to you through a finance lease also.

Want more insight from Australia’s leader in heavy vehicle, mobile plant and equipment insurance?

Visit www.yellowcover.com.au

NORM ENGINEERING MOVING THE EARTH FOR YOU!

Since 1984, Norm Engineering has designed and built earthmoving attachments for tractors, mini loaders, skid steers, track loaders, excavators, backhoes and telehandlers. As an Australian manufacturer, Norm Engineering understands the tough Aussie environment and has built its buckets to withstand its harsh conditions.

2021 was another big year for Norm Engineering, relocating the Queensland branch and celebrating 37 years of Moving The Earth For You!

Engineering has the reliability you can build your business around. Norm Buckets are proven to be one of the most durable and reliable Earthmoving attachments in Australia. Thousands of earthmoving contractors Australia wide rely on Norm attachments. Why?

Norm Engineering sets the new benchmark in the earthmoving attachment industry, with stronger materials, engineered for a longer life and enhanced reliability.

Most may think Norm Pesch started Norm Engineering. He didn’t. Norm’s father-in-law, Wally Acimovic began the business bearing his Son in Law’s name when Norm was in the Royal Australian Air Force. Norm at the time was in charge of the engineering support section for the black hawk helicopters of nine squadron. However Wally, former owner and founder of Roswal Trailers, clearly had a premonition that one day Norm would want to leave his job and work for him. Luckily for Wally, that gamble paid off. Like most of the greatest success stories it started from very humble beginnings. Wally constructed the company’s inaugural bucket after being unhappy with the bucket that was on the front of his own skid steer. He started off with making one, then two, and then three. The rest, as they say, is history.

Norm has been at the helm of the business since 1999, when Wally and wife Rosa decided to move away from the business. Norm’s son, John, also works at Norm Engineering and will one day take over the family business. Over the past 20 years, John has worked his way through the business and in 2012 was appointed the role of General Manager. Like

his dad, John’s passion is his family. John and his wife, Jessica, have two young sons, Ryan, 10 and Lachlan, 8. Ryan, who is “10 going on 16”, has already shown an interest in the family business. “Any earthmoving equipment he just goes nuts for,” Norm says. We are extremely excited to announce that in 2022, Jessica has also joined the family business, working in Corporate Development and Strategy.

Norm Engineering’s established reputation as the leading 4-in-1 bucket manufacturer in Australia has been achieved through simply listening to customers and producing tough, quality-built products. As modern machines become increasingly more powerful, Norm Engineering targets the Australian market through stronger attachments that are more adaptable and can handle the demanding conditions. This ability to listen to customers and follow the forever changing industry is what led Norm Engineering to manufacture the famous Norm Front and Rear Rippers.

In comparison to the 1950s, new block sizes within the residential construction sector are currently around one-third to one-quarter of the size. It is also important to note that the average pre-existing blocks are shrinking due to urban consolidation and lots being sub-divided. Some say that forever changing Aussie household preferences are to blame for the shrinkage as most households are now demanding lower maintenance homes and developers are simply meeting the market. However, is it also said that

the core reason behind these size reductions is due to government urban consolidation policies dating back to the early 2000s. These include the implementation of urban growth boundaries (UGBs) around Australia’s cities, more restrictive zoning policies and minimum density ratios.

Norm’s Rippers were originally designed in the 2000s due to a large customer demand within the residential construction industry. As it was no longer viable for builders having to cut and level these smaller blocks with a drot, the perfect solution was the Norm Engineering Front and Rear Rippers. These custom-built attachments can be left on your machine permanently, no need to detach as they have been designed to not impact your machines departure angle and can be used as a stabiliser to increase down pressure when post hole boring. Incorporating one of Norm’s Rippers with your Skid Steer set up will significantly increase your overall abilities and provide additional stability to your machine.

Combining Norm’s Hydraulic Rear Rippers with your Skid Steer is a must have for any serious earthmoving service provider. Over the past 37 years, Norm Engineering has established strong and long-lasting relationships with many of its customers.

If you’re serious about increasing your machine’s capabilities, contact the team on (07) 3376 3177 or visit www.normeng.com.au to see the full range of Australian hand-built attachments.

HIDROMEK EXCAVATORS GETTING THE JOB DONE AT ST HELENS QUARRIES

St Helens Quarries is owned by Andy & Joanne Griffiths who started the business together in 1998. Twenty-four years later the business is still a small family operated earthmoving and quarrying business. Daughter Elyce joined the business three years ago and PJ Berne joined the team recently.

Based in St Helens, the largest town on the north-east coast of Tasmania, St Helens Quarries now includes three quarries in the local area and one in Fingal just under an hour drive south.

One of the quarries is a sand lease while the three rock quarries produce decorative landscaping pebbles and a full range of road materials, including VicRoad compliant Roadbases and high PSV 54 Sealing aggregates. All quarries are phytophthora cinnamomic (PC) free, which means the material produced can be used in sensitive areas such as Tasmania’s national parks.

Joanne’s main role in the business is secretary but as with many family businesses she wears a few different hats depending on what is required on the day.

“In addition to the quarry we supply the major contractors on government projects quarry materials for road upgrades. We also supply material to the local landscaping yards, the council and earthmoving companies in the area,” Joanne adds.

St Helens Quarries currently owns four excavators, two-wheel loaders, two trucks, a crusher and a mobile screening plant.

The newest addition to the fleet is a 31.9 tonne Hidromek HMK310LC H4-Series excavator.

“I saw the Hidromeks in a magazine and thought they looked very impressive. The opportunity arose and we needed another excavator, so we contacted Onetrak,” Andy explains.

“Everyone at Onetrak was great to deal with from the start and invited us to demo a machine so we could test it. We also got the contact details to an earthmoving company here in Tasmania that own a couple of Hidromeks and got a testimonial directly from the owner of that business. From the get-go Onetrak has gone out of their way to help in every way possible. They have even helped with a machine we bought from another company that we have had some challenges with,” Andy continues.

“The Hidromeks are quiet, comfortable and enjoyable to operate. They’re as good as anything else on the market if not better. The HMK310LC is performing better than we expected in our hard rock quarry operation. They’re built extremely solid with reinforced steel components that I have not seen on any other excavators. The interior of the cabin is great – I reckon I’d happily operate the Hidromek for 12 hours a day without complaining,” Andy adds.

Andy and the team were recently contracted to work on a subdivision project completing trenching and rockbreaking.

“We needed a hire machine just recently and utilised the Hidromek HMK145LCSR zero swing excavator through Onetrak Rental. We were super impressed with that machine –for a machine its size at 16.8 tonnes it was very solid and stable to operate. Great machine,” Andy concludes.

Daughter Elyce officially joined the family business three years ago.

“I was working at the supermarket and just wanted to do something different, which led to me starting to work for the family business. I started in the 8 tonne excavator and then progressed to a 25 tonne and 40 tonne. So far most of the work I’ve done has been in the quarry feeding the crusher, breaking

rock or loading the trucks. Outside of that I’ve also worked on some of our other projects excavating trenches,” Elyce says.

When asked what she likes most about the job, Elyce responds, “I like that I just get in the excavator and get on with the job – I put my favourite podcast on and just get the job done.”

Elyce has been operating the new Hidromek HMK310LC since last year.

“I really like the Hidromek. It’s very comfortable with the adjustable air suspension seat and super easy access to everything.”

Elyce has gained quite an impressive following on her Instagram page earning her a few ambassadorships with workwear brands.

“I just started sharing a few posts here and there – of the machines or from my working day and it has just grown from there,” says Elyce.

Check out Elyce’s instagram page: @that_digger_chick.

Onetrak is the official supplier of Hidromek in Australia. Sales and service outlets are in Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Western Australia and South Australia.

To learn more about Hidromek or to view the full range of machinery sold and supported by Onetrak, visit www.onetrak.com.au or call 1300 727 520.

YELLO EQUIPMENT BACK AT DDT IN 2022!

YELLO Equipment, authorised SANY dealer, will be back at DDT for 2022 after a successful 12 months of operations. Confirming they will bring with them an impressive line-up of SANY earthmoving machines, the team at YELLO are excited to welcome you to their stand and encourage you to get up close and personal with their machines.

“Nothing beats seeing heavy machinery in person to really understand the impressive features of a model. We are confident our customers will be blown away by the highquality build and exceptional value delivered when you purchase a SANY excavator,” said Andy Hopcroft, General Manager of YELLO Equipment.

Speaking with Hopcroft, he provided a little taste of what you can expect to see at the YELLO Equipment/SANY Australia stand between April 8th – 10th.

“For an event of this size, we are bringing in the cavalry! The YELLO Equipment teams from both our QLD and NSW branches will be present to provide walkarounds, answer any questions you have and give you a taste of the YELLO Equipment service we pride ourselves on. In addition to being on tap to share their machine knowledge and recommendations, the team can share with you valuable information about YELLO Finance, current offers and explain our servicing partnership with SuperService. We are committed to providing a full scope of services to ensure your purchase is easy and enjoyable,” he said.

Regarding the machine line-up that will be on display, YELLO will have a strong showing from the fleet with a particular emphasis on the Mini, Small and Compact range.

“Our full range of Mini Excavators includes 4 models ranging from 1.7T – 3.8T,” explained Hopcroft.

“Each model is versatile, compact and packed with power. These machines are multipurpose machines perfect for a range of trades and applications, so we expect a lot of interest from a broad range of disciplines. Our DDT display will include the SY16, SY26 and SY35 for you to view plus our

popular SY16 Tow and Go package will also be available and on display,” he confirmed.

If you’re looking for a small hydraulic excavator, YELLO will have two of their popular Small Excavators ready for you to jump into the cabin and get to know first-hand. This class ranges from the SANY SY50U at 5.3T through to the SANY SY95C at 9.2T, all offering a suite of options and attachments to make these machines exceptionally versatile.

“You can expect to see two of our top performing machines, the SY50 and SY80 at DDT,” said Hopcroft. “We expect a lot of interest in the SY80U as many haven’t seen this machine on display before. As one of the newer models to the SANY fleet, it was still on a ship to Australia at last year’s DDT. This will be the first time it has been shown at a major event, so be sure to come down and check out its powerful Yanmar T4F engine, reduced tail swing, load-sensing hydraulic system and overall robust build with reinforced boom, arm, swing platform and undercarriage. It is definitely worth an introduction!”

For those researching larger excavators from within the compact weight class, often used for mining, demolition or large earthmoving jobs, YELLO Equipment will have both the SY135 and SY155 on display for you to meet. The SY155U is also one of the

In addition to their machinery display, YELLO Equipment will have personnel available to discuss various YELLO Equipment finance offers with No cost, No obligation, pre-approved finance and the ability to customise repayments all available to discuss. If this is of interest, let one of the team know and they can provide further details.

“It is always a big few days at DDT and we can’t wait to meet you and talk about your specific requirements,” said Hopcroft. “Be sure to reach out to us prior if you would like to make an appointment or require information to be prepared for you. We are here to help!”

YELLO Equipment will be at Stand D10. 1300 093 556. www.yelloequipment.com

newer SANY models within the fleet, so again is expected to draw a crowd who are keen to see this impressive machine in the flesh.

CHECK OUT TORO-SEMCO AT DIESEL DIRT & TURF EXPO

If your business is landscape contracting or grounds maintenance, you can’t afford to miss checking out the range of Toro equipment on Semco Equipment Sales stand # Q1 at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo from the 8th to 10th April at the Sydney Dragway.

Visitors will see the latest range of mowers to make your business more efficient and more profitable, including the range of Toro construction equipment and the all-new 60 V Max Flex-force power system batterypowered equipment.

TORO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

The Toro compact utility loader range available at Semco equipment Sales has all the versatility you will ever need to handle any

job, whether it’s digging, hauling, planting or building. The TX1000 will be on display at stand #Q1 and are also in stock ready for delivery amongst other models in the Toro Construction and Tee Care Range. These great machines are simple to operate even for those unfamiliar with this type of machine.

PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE Toro’s professional walk-behind mowers available at Semco Equipment Sales are

designed for maximum performance every day to meet the demands of commercial mowing. The TurfMaster has a wide 30-inch mowing deck so you can cover more ground in less time, making it ideal for commercial use in the toughest conditions. Three speed settings give you optimum speed and high performance for recycling.

This mower features a unique tapered deck design with a generous discard channel for

Semco is your one-stop shop for the full range of Toro mowers, electric landscape equipment, loaders, trenchers and stump grinders.

more efficient air flow and maximum suction. This innovation enables clippings to be more effectively fed and densely packed into a large, commercially reinforced easy dump bag.

RIDE-ON MOWERS TO SUIT EVERY APPLICATION

The Toro professional ride-on mower range available at Semco Equipment Sales is designed for day long comfort, thanks to a fully adjustable suspended seating system. Among its many features is a patented adjustable discharge baffle, which lets you quickly modify the cutting chamber for the best cut, regardless of the mowing conditions.

The TimeCutter MX 4275 zero turn riding mower incorporates many patented technologies and features designed to cut your mowing time to almost half. This model is powered by a 24.5 hp Toro V-Twin cylinder engine with self-cleaning air filtration system. It features a 106.7cm, 10-gauge steel fabricated cutting deck and convenient washout port. There is also a very comfortable thickly padded seat.

When you need precise control, the mower’s Smart Speed® control system gives

you a choice of three speed ranges – trim, tow and mow.

60 V ELECTRIC RANGE

With battery options to suit any application, the Toro Flex-Force range of equipment, available at Semco Equipment Sales, includes a hedge trimmer, which lets you trim with minimal vibration and cuts cleanly every time, thanks to the criss-crossing scissor-like blades.

There is a string trimmer that doesn’t need a spool but has a variable speed trigger, two speed ranges, cruise control and line size and cutting length adjustment.

The Toro 60 V chainsaw has enough grunt to let you cut big logs and timber like a pro. The chainsaw’s long-run time ensures you can even get through big jobs like cutting logs and timber in short time.

With a big 56cm cutting width, the Recycler Battery mower is easy to maintain, fast to start, quiet and makes every mowing job a breeze.

The range will be available and can be purchased at DDT at the Semco Equipment Sales stand, #Q1.

GREAT SERVICE ON PARTS AND MAINTENANCE

When your income relies on your machine’s reliability and efficient performance, you cannot afford to miss out on productivity because of downtime.

Semco is a full range Toro sales and service dealer that has built its reputation through years of comprehensive parts experience, workshop with factory trained technicians and field service support. Unless a special part is needed, Semco usually offers a 48-hour turnaround service.

The company carries a full range of equipment and Toro sales specialists are available to arrange demonstrations and explain pricing and finance options that will enable you to make the best decision for your landscape contracting business or your property maintenance.

If you’re in the market for compact construction or lawn care equipment, Semco Equipment Sales stocks and supports all the latest Toro models.

You can talk to Semco’s Toro sales and parts specialists on the Semco hotline 1800 685 525.

A TOUGH AND READY NEW IDENTITY FOR A RUGGEDLY RELIABLE AUSTRALIAN PRESSURE CLEANER

You’d be hard pressed to find a workshop, factory, farm or mine site in Australia that hasn’t been cleaned by a SPITWATER pressure cleaner over the last 39 years.

A series of innovations and new products coupled with a new visual identity and marketing campaign is keeping the ruggedly reliable SPITWATER, and the teams that live and breathe the brand, fully focused.

SPITWATER distributors in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, and dealers Australia-wide are proudly promoting a new look logo, colour scheme and brand promise on their buildings, vehicles and, indeed, the SPITWATER pressure cleaners themselves.

“It’s been some decades since we’ve updated the brand. We are doing it now because we want to create a new and exciting future for the next generation,” says Prue Martinotti, General Manager of the Spitwater Australia factory in Albury, NSW.

The new branding is being launched with marketing campaigns celebrating the same rugged reliability, brand new look and just how “Tough + Ready” a SPITWATER is to do the dirty work.

SPITWATER is an enduring manufacturing success story in Australia, where most competitor products are produced offshore and made with global markets in mind.

SPITWATER’s Australian-ness is central to its values. Being an owner of a SPITWATER is being a customer for life. Innovation suggestions are taken from customers, ensuring that the company builds resolutely to get the job done for Australian industry.

The SPITWATER factory is undergoing a rebrand too and name going forward will be OTTICO Equipment, a blend of the founders’ family name ‘Martinotti’ and the word ‘company’, representing the innovative culture originally created by the Martinottis and continually shaped by the collaborators and contributors that have made SPITWATER what it is today.

The new OTTICO Equipment name creates a distinct identity for the factory so it can broaden its product scope and develop its other brands, the likes of JETFIRE space heaters, VACSTORM vacuum cleaners and so on, whilst

still innovating and improving the jewel in the crown, SPITWATER.

Of pride is the number of small Australian family businesses built on the back of a SPITWATER. Seeing the likes of roof cleaners, rural contractors and even beekeepers start successful family enterprises using something originally created in Albury is particularly rewarding for everyone involved.

Even with the brand changes and innovations, the core of SPITWATER remains unchanged. Same owners and the same teams, producing the same ruggedly reliable quality Australian manufactured products and solutions.

STM TRUCKS & MACHINERY

Drawing on over 45 years of experience, STM Trucks & Machinery ranges an extensive line-up of new and used trucks and machinery, complemented by a broad inventory of spare parts, with the family-owned-and-operated business having built its reputation around delivering clients a high-quality range of products and services.

STM is dedicated to helping businesses buy and maintain trucks and machinery, with its sales team focused on providing comprehensive client support, catering to individual truck and machinery needs, and assisting businesses of all sizes in getting the best from their budget.

STM’s DDT display will feature Warrnambool Premier Speedway winner Todd Bayley’s car (STM is the sponsor) and a mini golf challenge. Along with this, STM will have a number of Kobelco, ASV, C&F, Merlo, D’Avino and XCMG machines on display, including the following models.

KOBELCO SK380SRLC

The SK380SRLC is the heaviest limited tail swing excavator in the market to enter the 35 tonne class, bringing excellent lifting and digging performance to tight access worksites, while helping to meet the growing needs of large urban infrastructure projects around the world.

Running a 200kW engine, it is designed to deliver greater efficiency and productivity with increased power and speed, while a spacious cab interior, sporting an air suspension seat, optimal air conditioning vent placement and a light-touch lever provides uncompromising operator comfort and machine operability.

ASV MAX-SERIES RT-75 MAX

The ASV MAX-Series compact track loaders are decked out with the creature comforts that allow operators to power on through the

day, including premium 360-degree visibility and ASV’s roomiest cab design yet. In addition to this, the MAX-Series line is built to lead the industry in hydraulic performance, tractive effort, undercarriage technology, reliability and serviceability.

The RT-75 MAX weighs in at 4110kg and runs a 55kW engine (travel speed of up to 15km/h), with it featuring: 3.5 psi ground pressure at operating weight, a rated operating capacity (35% of tipping load) of 1247kg, an operating capacity (50% of tipping load) of 1782kg, and a tipping load of 3564kg.

C&F TRAKER T150HT

The C&F Traker T150HT is a versatile, multi-tool machine suitable for heavy duty use, which runs a Yanmar diesel engine and has a 1000kg

payload

In addition to this, it features: a quick coupling system, liquid cooling, hydraulic oil cooling, hydrostatic transmission and rocking rollers.

MERLO ROTO 50.26SEE PLUS

Merlo’s Rotating Telehandlers range allows 360° continuous rotating operation due to the turret, offering a greater range of action compared to a fixed telescopic handler, with the ROTO 50.26SEE PLUS’s features including: multi-position stabilisers with automatic control, an advanced safety system, and a cab with a modular design, with an exclusive tilting system adapting the tilt up to 20°.

The ROTO 50.26SEE PLUS weighs in at 17.3 t, has a maximum capacity of 5 tonne and a maximum lifting height of 25.9 m, with it running a 125 kW FPT NEF45 Tier 2 engine and capable of reaching a top speed of 40 km/h.

capacity, with it sporting a hydraulic control system guided by a mono-joystick.

STM’s DDT display will feature Warrnambool Premier Speedway winner Todd Bayley’s car.

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.

STUCCHI: INNOVATIVE QUICK COUPLINGS SOLUTIONS

It is this proactive and leading-edge approach that has both driven Stucchi’s international expansion – with the fluid connections and control specialist having branched out from its Italian headquarters to establish a global presence spanning the USA, Brazil, China and Australia – and earned it a reputation as one of the principal innovators in the quick couplings sector.

Stucchi has maintained an on-the-ground presence in Australia since 2013, with its Australian branch, Stucchi FCP, a key component of its international operations, allowing it to further build its presence in the Oceania region.

Stucchi is based out of Victoria, and maintains an office in Queensland, while it has also recently established a new office in Western Australia, underpinning its focus on providing a premium and accessible service for its growing Australian customer base.

Matt Fullerton, Managing Director, Stucchi Australia, commented, “As a business we take our core values from a global level and distil that down into a local feel. Stucchi started here in Dandenong and as we grow nationally it will remain our headquarters for Australia.

“The last 24 months has resulted in a want and need for local content in manufacturing and supply. People are coming back to local suppliers and local solutions, which had been lost to overseas over the years, particularly manufacturing. People want to know the origin of the product. We are already seeing the results of it coming back to Australia and it’s fantastic.

“What sets us apart in the market is you are dealing direct with the manufacturer, resulting in a tailored solution in a timely manner leaning on global knowledge fed back into our local market in Australia. This is very unique in the coupling industry.”

Stucchi has over the course of its 60-plus years of operations marked many significant events, and it was in 1977 that the company had originally commenced its production of quick couplings, specifically designed for conducting fluids under pressure.

A commitment to research and development was a key factor in Stucchi’s initial success, and remains an underlying focus to this day, with the company bringing its first series of flat face quick couplings to market in 1983, which in turn paved the way for further expansion and the establishment of its international foothold.

Flat face quick couplings quickly became one of Stucchi’s most distinctive products, and in the following years it has committed itself to further improving its product performance – developing products that are easy to use, safe, long lasting, environmentally friendly and which assist with energy efficiency – in catering for the evolving needs of its multi-sector customer base.

In fact, Stucchi’s endeavours have been acknowledged by ISO (the International Organisation for Standardisation), which brings together experts from all over the world to develop International Standards, with Stucchi awarded the ISO 9001 certificate for quality management systems in 1993.

Further to this, in 1999 Stucchi’s design for flat face quick couplings was used as a reference for the standard ISO 16028, which refers to flat face quick couplings and specifically defines the dimensions of the coupling/decoupling parts and the performance levels required for operation in fluid dynamic circuits with nominal pressures between 200 and 315 bar.

Stucchi strongly believes in and supports the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices, with its product portfolio reflective of its commitment to the development of innovative and efficient hydraulic quick coupling solutions.

As Stucchi advises, using quality couplings provides a range of benefits, not only contributing to improved efficiency, but also helping to prevent equipment issues further down the track, while paving the way for improved safety and reducing the need for costly repairs and resultant downtime.

Stucchi additionally notes that much of the equipment used in the earthmoving industry must be connected by sealing off the hydraulic circuit, with it important to ensure it remains resilient when subjected to high pressure and strong mechanical stress.

With connections being one of the most sensitive points in hydraulic systems, failure could potentially result in accidents, expensive repairs and financial losses due to downtime, in addition to environmental contamination as a result of hydraulic fluid leakages.

Evolution of quick couplings technology.

Quick couplings manufacturer Stucchi has over the years built a strong worldwide reputation on the back of its innovative and evolving product range, with the Italian company, formed by brothers Innocente and Lorenzo Stucchi in the northern province of Bergamo in 1960, drawing on over six decades of experience.

Connecting you under pressure

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

TILLY’S AND MAXIFORCE –A COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION

Tilly’s extensive experience and expertise in the large earthmoving machinery industry has led to the team seeking to provide small bore engine owners and operators with a cost-effective option for a proactive approach to regular machine maintenance. This approach is proven to both extend engine life and improve machine performance.

Maxiforce Diesel Engine Parts, based in Miami, Florida, is an industry leader in aftermarket small bore engine rebuild parts and components. The Maxiforce Research and Product Development team, with over 75 years of experience, is committed to utilising cutting edge technology and strenuous product testing to ensure the quality of their parts.

Tilly’s Crawler Parts has been supplying used and new non-genuine parts for earthmoving equipment for over 35 years. From their base in Toowoomba, Southeast Queensland, Tilly’s ships quality parts across Australia and around the world.

As part of Tilly’s long-term commitment to innovation and quality, Tilly’s now stocks an introductory range of quality alternative new parts for small bore engine rebuilds. Complementing and expanding Tilly’s already extensive new alternative parts range, the company is proud to be the Australian distributor for Maxiforce Diesel Engine Parts.

In addition to the introductory range already in stock in the Tilly’s warehouse, a stable and prioritised supply line of the full range of Maxiforce products ensures timely delivery to customers. The range of individual parts and components includes pistons, ring sets, crankshafts, camshafts, oil and water pumps, injectors, gaskets (Asbestos-Free), seals and many other internal diesel engine parts.

The extensive range provides a cost-effective and quality alternative to OEM parts for John Deere ® , Komatsu ® /Yanmar ® , Perkins ® , Caterpillar®, Cummins®, Mitsubishi®, Kubota®, Shibaura® and IHNavistar® machines.

The friendly and professional team at Tilly’s Toowoomba HQ has over 200 years collective industry experience. Talk to their parts interpreters who can provide advice

and ordering assistance with even minimal information. The Tilly’s team are proud to be exhibiting at this year’s Diesel Dirt & Turf event and look forward to meeting you there!

RE-PURPOSING REDUCES WASTE AND TIP COSTS

Separating a quality product from a waste material is at the core of many civil construction and infrastructure services. For the waste sector, the sorting and screening of bulk waste material from earth works can be a difficult and cost consuming process.

As Queensland Rock Breakers’ Sales Area Manager Craig Einam explains, the ALLU DS3/17 bucket is ideal for a multitude of both civil construction and waste recovery applications.

“The ALLU bucket is perfect for sorting and processing material,” Craig says. “We have seen end product volume increases of up to 70 per cent for reusable material, while reducing tip waste down to only 30 per cent on selected applications.

“We can configure the bucket to suit not only the application and feed material but also the size of the end product required, and the ALLU does this with our self-cleaning floating blade arrangement. There aren’t many buckets that are that flexible,” he says.

For the waste industry, the attachment has already been deployed to assist in the collection and disposal of kerbside waste. With the attachment’s ability to reduce the bulkiness of the product, household waste can be further compressed for disposal.

The ALLU DS3/17 bucket takes the headache out of sorting through reusable material, not only saving operators in terms of costs, but more importantly, time.

Operators such as Dave Kerrison understand the importance of saving time, for his civil construction and infrastructure services and has seen exemplary results when using the ALLU DS3/17 for his excavation, subdivision, earthworks, and road works projects.

“Every project is time critical, so the bucket is great for reducing both costs and the time that you need to spend on one project,” Dave says.

“Setting up for a project is as easy as bringing the attachment in with the tilt truck,

changing the oil flows in the machine and then you can start the project,” he says.

“We mainly use the bucket for the recovering of road-based material and topside soil. These materials can contain debris such as asphalt, so finding solutions for reutilising the material is critical.”

Dave adds that projects such as road works can usually require multiple machines and employees. When using the ALLU bucket, he experienced a reduction in operating costs.

“We can also utilise machines that we already have on site, rather than interchange between any piece of equipment, again saving costs,” he says.

“We have had projects where we did not have to import any material at all, as we could repurpose topsoil from the same site.”

In terms of wear and tear, Dave says he is yet to replace a single component from the ALLU DS3/17 bucket. His previously owned machines have also been major beneficiaries of the product.

“In terms of the machine there is less pressure and vibration as the material can be easily

processed through the bucket without having to shake the machine as much,” Dave says.

“With less wear and tear on pins and components, we have seen little change in the performance of the product or our machines over the four years we have owned the bucket.”

Craig adds that at nearly every waste or construction site there will be debris such as rocks or rubbish and even commercial contaminants and with the ALLU, the material is processed through the bucket and the end product is returned with a high percentage of guaranteed size that can be re-used.

Manufactured for over 30 years and distributed to over 30 countries, ALLU Transformer Buckets are available in Australia via a dedicated dealer network.

For more information contact the ALLU dealers: QLD Rockbreakers in QLD and NT: rdw.com.au/qld-rock-breakers

GroundTec in NSW: groundtec.com.au (Stand A10 at DDT)

Walkers Hammers in VIC and SA: walkershammers.com.au

Total Rockbreaking Solutions in WA: totalrockbreaking.com.au

Versatile ALLU will process just about anything. Wet or dry.

Processing times, cycle times and processed tonnes can be viewed and analysed via ALLU app. For excavators and loaders from 8t to 160t.

TORO SUPPLIED BY SEMCO EQUIPMENT SALES IS A WINNER FOR LOCAL HIRE SHOP

With home renovations and do-it-yourself projects booming, the market for hire of tools and equipment continues to grow rapidly.

Located at Valley Heights in Sydney’s Blue Mountains area, Local Hire Shop provides a comprehensive inventory of power tools and specialised equipment, from hand tools up to small excavators, trenching machines and stump grinders and mini loaders. Owner Oliver Heymans said, “We mainly cater for local tradespeople, do-it-yourself home renovators and property enthusiasts.

“We always respond to the needs of people who may be looking for a particular item that we don’t have and that is not normally stocked by some of the larger hire companies. When acquiring new equipment for hire, we carefully consider the cost, maintenance, reliability and whole of life investment. This is particularly important with major equipment purchases.

“Our Toro equipment is extremely popular; it is always out on hire. It is simple to operate and once we show people how to use the equipment effectively, the machines are always up to the task.

“Reliability and performance are the reasons we have selected Toro mini loaders and stump grinders for our fleet. Our experience has shown this equipment to be extremely durable, which contributes to the reliability that helps us keep maintenance costs to an absolute minimum.

“In this business we look for a good return on investment for all our equipment, which means our prime need is for reliable gear that will stand up to the constant rental use. Our Toro equipment is highly reliable

and on those occasions where parts or service may be needed our local Toro dealer Semco Equipment Sales offers great service with supply of parts or technical support and sales.

“We have been in business here at Valley heights for almost 16 years and have experienced constant business growth, so we must be doing something right! My background in the construction industry has also helped our customers to hire the right gear for the job because I know what equipment will work best.

“As a local hire company, we have created a niche in the market and compete quite successfully with the larger companies,” Oliver said.

Oliver Heymans, Local Hire Shop.

SEMCO HELPING HORTICULTURAL YOUTH PROGRAM

Semco Equipment Sales are assisting with valuable training and work experience for young people transitioning into paid employment at yourtown’s Social Enterprises at 3 Warrior Pl, St Marys.

yourtown is funded by community and government to support young people to be defiant in the face of adversity by placing them in control of their own journey. yourtown, through its many services, seeks to enable young people to recognise their unique and evolving needs, comprehensively addressing them, and building their selfsufficiency through being an accessible, trusted, safe and empowering space.

By making a measurably greater impact in the provision of supports to children and young people, we create a powerful ripple effect through the broader community.

David Elliott is the Property Manager for New South Wales and South Australia for yourtown. He manages the organisation’s asset inventory including equipment and buildings. yourtown acquired Toro mowers from Semco Equipment Sales because they are in wide use by many councils and other prospective employers of our youths in our programs. The Toro equipment is widely respected throughout the horticultural industry and known for its robust construction, reliability, and quality results.

Tony Sadeghi-Assl is the Social Enterprise Manager at St Marys, NSW who explains:

yourtown is one of the pioneers of work-based social enterprises in Australia, having provided over 3000 young people with paid work experience and training over the last 20 years. It is designed for young people from 16 to 24 years of age and early school leavers, who have difficulty finding employment, allowing them to gain work and life skills in a supportive environment.

yourtown aims to tackle long-term youth unemployment by providing young people with paid work experience and on-the-job training as a steppingstone to open employment. It is designed for young people who have difficulty finding and sustaining employment.

Young people in our program are trained to use Toro mowers and other equipment while fulfilling paid contracts. Our program teaches young people skills needed to safely operate power tools and equipment and work in a commercial environment.

Many of the young people in our program come from challenging homes and social backgrounds. We give them an opportunity to join our program under a traineeship for a year, during which time they can acquire a Certificate of Horticulture.

Our program allows Enterprise Trainers to work alongside Youth Workers to provide both supervision and mentoring support for participants engaged in labour intensive work, designed to build entry level skills.

Young people are provided the opportunity of a five-week pre-employment program called YESIP before they enter a paid traineeship for 12 months to build the essential skills required before entering into the work force.

Currently yourtown Social Enterprises are mentoring youths on contracts based in lawns and ground maintenance using a fleet of five Toro professional mowers supplied and serviced by Semco Equipment Sales. yourtown provides participants with exposure to a wide range of areas, such as property maintenance, landscaping and horticulture, government, council, and custom services.

yourtown’s Social Enterprise Program provides potential employers greater confidence in knowing the candidates have undertaken fundamental training giving them job-specific skills and values.

For information: entnsw@yourtown.com.au

Ph: (02) 8834 3000, | 3 Warrior Place, St Marys NSW 2760.

(left) Social Enterprise Manager, Tony Sadeghi-Assl with David Elliott, Property Manager for New South Wales and South Australia.

XCMG WHEEL LOADERS – SIMPLY UNMATCHED VALUE-FOR-MONEY

XCMG’s range of wheel loaders is no exception to this highest quality of design, service and after-sales support. High performing machines with heavy duty construction at a competitive price point, XCMG loaders cater to the mining, construction, quarry, agriculture and waste management industries.

The current lineup – specifically designed for Australian conditions – starts at 11 tonnes operating weight, through to 19 tonnes.

Future expansion of the product range will see the introduction of even larger models to the Australian market.

All models share multiple premium-quality features, such as an extra heavy-duty loader frame design, a Euro Stage 3 certified Cummins engine, and a fully automatic torque converter transmission for a smoother, quieter and more enjoyable ride.

In addition, each machine uses a fully hydraulic wet axle braking system, a low-speed auto-adjusting and self-cleaning fan in the radiator, and intelligent heat management to ensure the loader can quickly reach and maintain optimum working conditions.

Other standard features include autogreasing, a hydraulic quick hitch, battery and starter isolators, and internal and external e-stops. Demonstrating that the XCMG wheel loader range is built for Australian conditions.

Panoramic wrap-around windows give the operator excellent visibility all around the machine, and the cabs include a spacious, dust-proof, well-insulated and temperatureadjustable interior for maximum all-day comfort. Also included is an intelligent dashboard design with digital gauges and controls to easily check various operational information at a glance or the simple touch of a button.

Furthermore, XCMG Australia offer a nationwide parts, service, sales and support network for all machines, ensuring that any scheduled or unplanned downtime is resolved quickly and easily. Don’t wait weeks for replacement parts or service requests as is standard for many construction equipment suppliers in Australia – XCMG will have your support needs catered to swiftly and efficiently.

For more information about XCMG’s premium wheel loader range visit: www.xcmgmachinery.com.au.

XCMG is the world’s third largest construction machinery manufacturer, with a rich history of global growth resulting from premium design, manufacture, supply and service of all equipment.

COUNTDOWN TO 2022 NATIONAL DIESEL DIRT & TURF EXPO

April is a great time of the year and if you are into machinery and construction equipment, there is no better place to be than the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at the Sydney Dragway.

Staged over three days from Friday, 8 April until Sunday, 10 April, visitors will be treated to the latest and greatest in earthmoving, excavation and public space maintenance equipment in Australia. There is something for all family: Little Big Rigs will keep the kids absolutely fascinated, while the thrilling Freestyle Kings motorbike team will entertain visitors throughout the Expo.

Getting around the whole Expo area will take time, so the organisers have made sure there are plenty of food and beverage offerings in the food court. If your feet get weary, there are many places to meet friends in the shade to share lunch.

There’s no doubt that construction and infrastructure work is on the move throughout the country, so if you want to keep your business up to date with the latest in productivity tools, you certainly need to be at this Expo.

Product specialists will be on hand at exhibitors’ stands to give you useful advice and answer any questions you may have about how you can improve the bottom line of your business.

MAJOR INDUSTRY SPONSOR

Reflecting the status of this Expo, Komatsu Australia is once again the gold sponsor. Dean Gaedtke, executive general manager, construction at Komatsu said they are proud to be the Gold Sponsor of the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo for the second year running, with a major presence allowing Komatsu to fully engage with visitors.

“With a core focus on sustainability and technology, we are excited to be exhibiting our fully electric remote-controlled mini excavator prototype, unmatched in the world.

“Designed to lay the foundation for the commercialisation of fully electric construction equipment, the fully electric 3-tonne mini-excavator is based on Komatsu’s technological expertise in electric forklifts and mini excavators, and incorporates new technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries and electric cylinders.

“We will also be showcasing a range of construction equipment, including our Intelligent Machine Control models, as well as our Smart Construction technology solution, Komatsu iSite.

“Be sure to come and visit us at stand B1 and check out our demo area where you will have a chance to test drive some of our equipment,” Dean said.

Pickles Auctions is again staging its huge Saturday auction with hundreds of lots under the hammer to make sure you can pick up a

bargain. This annual Saturday event is a major drawcard for the Expo and there is no better way to grab some great gear at the right price.

PROLUBE LUBRICANTS

Adding to the associate sponsors this year is Prolube Lubricants, which is wholly Australian owned and operated. This company was established in 1988 to formulate, blend and market a range of automotive, transport and earthmoving, industrial and agricultural lubricants and greases for the demands of the arduous Australian climatic and operational conditions.

Prolube Lubricants says its newly constructed state-of-the-art blending facility in Brisbane uses a revolutionary inline blending system that is widely recognised throughout the world as the most environmentally satisfactory method of blending quality lubricants.

Prolube’s manufacturing process uses high quality hydro treated Group 2, Group 3 and fully synthetic base oils with the latest technology additive chemistry and blends them to produce lubricants meeting the upper limits of the relevant specification range.

Gold media sponsor Earthmovers & Excavators Magazine and Trade Earthmovers have also recognised the huge importance of this major Expo.

Other sponsors include Norm Engineering, CreditOne, XCMG, Cappro Pacific, Yellow Cover, Truck Assist and Earthmoving Equipment Magazine.

Some exhibition sites may still be available, so if you are planning to exhibit or visit, check out www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au or call 0411 648 465 to be part of the action at Australia’s largest and most successful construction and earthmoving industry Expo.

Diesel Dirt & Turf always attracts big crowds.

Komatsu is the 2022 Gold Sponsor.

AUSTRALIAN MOWER MARKET TO BECOME A $1.2B INDUSTRY BY 2027

What

The Australia Lawn Mower Market Analysis & Forecast 2022-2027 has predicted that the Australian mower market is set to become a $1.2B (USD) industry by 2027. This 4.79% growth is estimated to occur steadily over the next 5 years and indicates huge potential for the used mower market in years to come. Industry growth in the mower sector is unsurprising, as industrial-focused businesses have observed a huge rise in the resale prices of used assets within the last 3 years. These changes have instigated interest in what this market growth means for the used economy now and the used economy post-2027.

THE MOWER INDUSTRY TODAY

The used mower industry in Australia is currently experiencing a huge leap in prices due to high demand and a lack of new and used assets available. Due to COVID-19-induced manufacturing and shipping shortages, there are many Australians who are willing to pay more than top dollar to get their hands on a used asset. This shortage, alongside a worldwide increase in self-managed lawn maintenance during pandemic restrictions, has created an all-time high for the mower industry.

The YoY growth of mower sales at Pickles auctions were staggering between 2020-21. In 2020, Pickles sold 132 mowers at an average of $8000 an asset, totalling $1.05M. In 2021, Pickles sold 131 mowers at an average of $11,000 an asset for a total of $1.45M in sales for the year. This is a 38% sale increase between one year for the same amount of assets for sale. Pickles sales reports show that 100% of the used mowers being sent to auction are being sold. The mower market is so hot that assets are being sold with more hours and at a higher price than years previous.

One of the most popular mowers, the Kubota F3690, has seen a 71% price increase in the last 24 months for used assets under 5 years old. The average price of a Kubota at a Pickles auction in 2020 was $9287, which jumped to $15,881 in 2021 despite assets coming with more hours than in previous years.

While the industry is estimated to rise because of the introduction of new and improved mowers, some Pickles experts believe that pre-covid production rates won’t reappear until 2025. This could indicate that the recirculation of used assets already located in Australia

could see even more resale growth. The current supply of used mowers is heavily dictated by Australian councils buying and selling their equipment. As councils are the market leaders and are experiencing issues gaining access to new assets, the market is receiving less used mowers to contend for.

While borders across the world are reopening, there is still a significant delay in the production and shipping of new mowers. This is due to a range of influences including a lack of materials and Australia sitting low on the pecking order of production companies. This is largely due to the inconvenience of servicing a country that is separated by large distances from all major shipping ports, made increasingly more expensive due to shipping price hikes in the last few years. Some Australian businesses have noted that lead times are actually becoming longer, with some ordered assets estimated to take up to 18 months before hitting Australia. These long lead times are pushed out even further for customised assets.

For mowers being ordered with specialty features to suit Australian needs, the estimated wait times can be further blown out. This inclined market has made it less affordable to buy mowers in general, as mowers have become so sought after that companies can avoid using the usual sales gimmicks in order to sell newly produced stock. With a lack of sales, deals or inclusions on new assets, it’s never been harder or more expensive to purchase new mowers.

THE MOWER INDUSTRY POST-2027

Though the industry is slated to peak in 2027, the implications of such a steady incline in the market reach further than the next 5 years. The introduction of massive amounts of mowers into the Australian market could dilute the price of assets due to saturation. This makes it crucial

for many businesses to offload their assets within the next 5 years while their mowers still have practical use. This keeps businesses able to maintain young fleets by retaining asset value with an early offload.

Alternatively, the market could continue to grow if shipping and manufacturing issues continue to cause extreme delays or lack of assets. With Australia taking low priority on the international market, world events that slow travel and production would further affect asset availability.

While there’s no doubt that the mower industry will continue to expand in the next decade, there are multiple trends on the horizon that could affect the Australian mower market.

IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY

The most resounding expectation of the industry is to see a range of technological improvements in the new assets hitting the market. These improvements are likely to be advanced safety and productivity technologies.

BATTERY VS. FUEL

It’s likely that battery-powered mowers will steal the stage in the decade to come. While fuel-driven mowers are still the most popular model, battery-powered assets are expected to see a jump in the market share from 18% to 24% by 2025. This is partially due to the environmentally-friendly use of battery over fuel, and also in part, due to technology catching up to allowing ride-on mowers to be built with batteries.

ROBOTIC MOWERS

Because of the growing interest in personal home garden maintenance, it is suspected that robotic mowers may enter the market as soon as technology allows. Robotic mowers would include lithium-ion technology to create environmentally-friendly, compact assets. These mowers would be predominantly suburban-based and would need to include barrier recognition and lawn-mapping technology to make a successful entrance into the market.

Interested in buying a used mower? Check out all the assets available at Pickles auctions around Australia or speak to our industrial team about upcoming sales.

Interested in selling a used mower? Talk to our industrial team about all the options available for secondhand industrial assets.

the mower boom means for vendors and used assets.

It’s finally here!

After all the waiting, planning and excitement, the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is happening, and EEM is proud to be a media partner in the gargantuan exercise. Putting together a show of this magnitude would be a daunting task for any well-managed and tightly run organisation, but the DDT people make it look easy.

We’re not just proud of DDT, we’re proud to be associated with an industry that has had its very foundations shaken over the past few years and still managed to not only cope, but to forge on and keep the nation moving. Building and construction, civil works, logistics, even small residential work… it all relies on someone, somewhere, taking machinery to a site and breaking ground. From the solo subcontractors running a single small skid steer through to the largest

GET IN TOUCH

Do you have something you’d like to share with the industry? Send EEM an email at tom@maynemedia.com.au

of mining efforts and government-sponsored endeavours, the Australian earthmoving community hasn’t shirked a day, no matter how tough the challenges.

That throws up an interesting contrast to Jamie and KahChi. I’m beginning to suspect they may not be working to their full capacity, especially as DDT has come closer. I’d need more time to watch them properly, and with the never-ending amount of work going on here, I can’t get away from my desk to try and keep up with them.

I’m probably imagining things. They seem plausible whenever I ask why they need to attend a wine tasting in the Hunter Valley or get a corporate box at State Of Origin (‘team building’ they tell me, even though there’s only two of them). Still, there’s no arguing with this being another blockbuster issue, so whatever

else the pair have been up to, the mag is bigger and better than ever. We have case studies on Roadbridge Excavations’ Kobelco plant and Murrumbidgee Irrigation and CJD Equipment machinery, and we tested the impressive Cat ® CS12 GC Vibratory Soil Compactor. That’s on top of the usual earthmoving-industry news and information, and of course, a huge, brimming bucketful of the DDT supplement. That’s over 100 pages on its own.

So no matter what I think might be going on, the staff of EEM, like the rest of the earthmoving community, are getting on with business no matter how tough things get.

Thank goodness for that, I say.

Enjoy the issue and we’ll see you all at DDT.

Tom Foster Contributing Editor

We’re keen to get your thoughts.

Jamie Gray

Jamie has been a professional photographer in Sydney for over two decades. He is the owner of Camera, Hammer and Tong, who provides digital content for small businesses in and around the construction industry. He is also a photo journalist & the product feature editor for What Tradies Want Magazine. But he’s just as comfortable with a hammer in his hand as a camera and pen. Undertaking a mature age carpentry apprenticeship in his 40s and still gets the nail bag on when he can.

Martin Kovacs

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.

Ian Edwards

Ian

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.

Ian

Scott Lidster

THE NEW UPDATED NEXT GEN CAT®

966, 966

XE,

972

AND

972

XE WHEEL LOADERS WITH SIMPLE-TO-USE TECHNOLOGIES AND OPERATOR FEATURES BOOSTING EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY

Bringing a host of standard technologies to the 8 to 9 tonne wheel loader line, the updated Cat® 966 and 972 Wheel Loader series boost operator efficiency. The 966 and 972 models deliver consistently high bucket fill factors to increase productivity by up to 10 per cent. Their next generation design extends fluid and filter change intervals to lower maintenance costs up to 15% when compared to the previous models.

The Caterpillar designed and manufactured continuous variable transmission (CVT) of the Next Gen Cat 966 XE and 972 XE loaders improve fuel efficiencies up to 35% compared to the previous powershift models. Prolonged service intervals plus efficiencies gained through the CVT powertrain result in even lower maintenance costs of up to 25%, further reducing operating costs.

Product specialist Dick Mars details the introduction of the latest addition to the line of Cat next generation medium wheel loaders.

SMART LOADERS, EFFICIENT OPERATION

Dick said, “Similar to the 980 and 982 released in 2021, all four models in the updated 966 and 972 range represent a new generation in wheel loader performance and design created over a 60-year history. These years of research, coupled with customer panellists and surveys, has resulted in the development of a new breed of machines that excel in performance, efficiency, safety and comfort.”

All models in the updated 966 and 972 loader series feature standard Cat Payload* with Assist for accurate weighing of bucket payloads, so operators can load to target the first time every time. Real-time data is fed to the operator display and allows manual tip-off function to improve final bucket adjustments and truck load accuracy.

“Operators no longer need to worry about under or overloading their trucks with this standard Payload with Assist feature, which also focuses on reducing fuel burn and lessening operator fatigue,” said Dick.

The new Cat Autodig with Auto Set Tyres delivers consistently high bucket fill factors for the updated medium wheel loaders. Fully automating bucket loading, Autodig improves fill factors and decreases loading time. Working in conjunction with Autodig, Auto Set Tyres promotes proper loading techniques to significantly reduce tire slip and wear.

“When you pair Auto Set Tyres with the new Cat Autodig, it’s a no brainer. You will experience a reduction in tyre slip and loading times. Your job becomes almost effortless because Autodig can automate your entire dig cycle all day long with consistently high bucket fill factors, adding up to 10 per cent more productivity.”

“Similar to the 980 and 982 loaders, these updated 966 and 972 models allow for

customised profiles for customer-specific application, new Application Profiles sets multiple machine parameters with the press of one button to optimise settings for the job. Selectable on-screen Job Aids, along with streamlined new layout, facilitates loader operation, allowing operators of all experience levels to be more productive. One press of the button to set up Application Profiles that enables multiple machine parameters for the work being done and you’re all set for the job,” he added.

GREATER PRODUCTIVITY AND FUEL EFFICIENCY

Optional Cat technologies help to further increase productivity and operation profitability of the updated series. Cat Advanced Payload* with Assist offers Tip Off Assist to automatically adjust the final bucket load to match hauling unit target, enhanced lists management, site integration and extended scale features. The available Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive

actionable information for the site off-board on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

“The Tip Off Assist button helps operators to accurately hit their targets every time. It takes out all the guesswork and is a life saver for every operator,” Dick said.

Deep system integration of the CVT powertrain, engine, hydraulic and cooling systems as part of the Next Gen Cat 966 XE and 972 XE design results in significantly increased performance and fuel efficiency. Without the torque converter of mechanical drive systems, these loaders independently control engine rpm and machine speed to provide efficient digging, fine control, and operation.

Operators will experience smooth, fast acceleration and high speeds on grade with the CVT design. Machine manoeuvring on grade is enhanced through speed-hold and antirollback features. Delivering optimal loading efficiency in the pile, advanced rimpull control helps to reduce tire wear. Beyond saving fuel, the lower rated engine speed of the XE models reduces component wear and makes for quieter operation.

SIGNIFICANT MAINTENANCE SAVINGS

The next generation 966 and 972 series design extends maintenance intervals to 1000 hours and eliminates the 500-hour service intervals, so the loaders spend more time at work. An integrated optional Autolube reduces daily maintenance and increases component service life.

“One thing you will be quick to notice is the convenient access to hydraulic and electric service areas making servicing the loaders fast and easy. Without a doubt, all these design updates reduce maintenance costs

up to 20% for the Cat 966 and 972 models,” Dick explained.

NEXT GENERATION COMFORT, SAFETY

The new loaders feature Caterpillar’s next generation of ride control that works as a shock absorber to improve ride quality over rough terrain. Making for a quieter work environment, the cab includes sound suppression, seals and viscous mounts to decrease noise levels. A wide door that unlocks remotely from the ground plus inclined steps improves cab ingress/egress.

Shipped standard with a seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system, the Next Gen 966 and 972 machines offer precise machine control with minimal arm movements, increased comfort, improved loading accuracy and more legroom for the operator. An HMU steering wheel is available as an option for the 966 and 972 powershift models. The loaders’ new dashboard and high-resolution touchscreen display provide intuitive and user-friendly loader control for enhanced performance. Multiple air suspension seat options include heating or heating and ventilation to provide year-round comfort.

Dick added, “The new next generation of wheel loaders is built with safety in mind. We want to keep the jobsite safe for everyone and the enhanced features in the cab such as standard monitored seat belts with an optional exterior beacon feature for supervisors to elevate job site safety and the cab windshield, which extends from floor-to-ceiling, improves visibility.”

In addition, the standard rear-vision camera and large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors provide industry-leading all-around visibility.

Cat Detect radar to alert operators to hazards and a multi-view (360-degree) vision system are options that provide an extra level of monitoring around the loaders to advance safe operation.

“We take safety to the next level with Cat Detect technology. It’s similar to our cars where an audible and visual alarm sounds when you are reversing close to objects behind you.”

PURPOSE-BUILT EFFICIENCY

Available in capacities ranging from 2.8 to 14.0m3 for the new 966 and 972 loader series, Cat Performance Series buckets balance shape against the machine’s linkage for higher fill factors and better material retention than other designs with the same rated capacity.

Fusion™ Quick Coupler buckets permit rapid work tool changes without leaving the cab, so the loaders move quickly from task to task.

Special, purpose-built options for the loaders include an aggregate handler configuration that offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling applications. Industrial and waste models feature the guarding and reinforcement required for working at transfer stations, recycling facilities, scrap yards and demolition sites. For demanding applications like steel mills and slag handling, the loaders can be ordered in the steel mill configuration that incorporates additional levels of safety.

For more information about the Cat 966 and 972, visit the local Cat dealer.

NSW/ACT WesTrac 1300 881 064

VIC/TAS William Adams 1300 923 267

Western Australia WesTrac 1300 881 064

QLD/NT Hastings Deering 131 228

South Australia Cavpower 08 8343 160

NZ TERRA 0800 93 39 39

As all construction equipment owners and operators know, machine downtime can be incredibly costly. Sometimes the most efficient way to keep things moving is to do your own scheduled maintenance and repairs. This is where Cat® planned maintenance (PM) kits and Self-Service Options come in – where you’ll get all the genuine Cat parts you need to perform your own maintenance and repairs.

CAT PLANNED MAINTENANCE KITS

Regular maintenance with genuine Cat ® parts can help your components last longer, and can help maintain efficiency and extend intervals on repairs. A Cat planned maintenance kit contains all the genuine Cat parts you need for your machine’s specific maintenance interval – parts like filters, fluids, gaskets and seals. It helps eliminate guesswork and saves you time – so you can focus on getting the job done. Cat PM kits are available for an extensive range of Cat machines and are backed by the standard Cat parts warranty. They’re customisable, convenient and easy to order.

When you purchase your PM kit on parts.cat.com, you can buy it ‘off the shelf’ or it’s easy to add or remove items. But if you prefer, you can call or drop into your Cat dealer and have them put together a kit for you. Either way, what goes into your kit is up to

you, and your Cat dealer can also provide you with all the support you need to help keep your machine running at peak performance.

“We know time is money for customers. Ordering planned maintenance kits online at parts.cat.com makes ordering easy and eliminates the need to prepare lists – it’s all done for them,” says Caterpillar Aftermarket Services Consultant, Pei Ting Tan.

CAT SELF-SERVICE OPTIONS

Cat Self-Service Options (SSO) are repair kits designed for your specific machine, giving you the flexibility to order the parts you need if you choose to do the repairs yourself. SSOs have been developed for over 400 Cat machine models and size classes including excavators, wheel loaders, dozers, motor graders, compact track loaders, skid steer loaders and more. Repair options include minor engine bolt-on, service brakes for drivetrains, hydraulics and implement controls.

Every SSO comes with all the required genuine Cat parts you need backed by Cat warranty – step by step instructions including safety and contamination control guidelines, and recommended tooling, with an option to purchase at the same time. Everything you need is all boxed up – so you can do it yourself and get back to work.

As Aavin Goswami, a Caterpillar Self-Service Options Consultant points out, “Self-Service Options have been designed to simplify the repair process for customers who prefer to do common repairs on their own. Cat dealers can provide guidance with selecting the right SSO, and work with their customers to provide flexible solutions for ongoing machine management.”

CUSTOMER VALUE AGREEMENTS

If you’re looking for even more support, a Customer Value Agreement (CVA) with an authorised Cat dealer can help. A CVA

is a convenient and hassle-free maintenance plan that helps keep your Cat machine in top working order. CVAs are available in a range of support plans delivered by your Cat dealer – from a full-service equipment protection plan, to having maintenance kits delivered at the right time for your own

TO ORDER YOUR PM KIT:

• Scan the QR code.

• Navigate to your equipment page.

• Choose the PM kit you need.

• Select your maintenance interval.

• Build your PM kit.

• Add it to your cart and check out.

installation. They can help to maximise your uptime and the value of your machine and your business. Just speak to your Cat dealer. They’ll be able to talk you through their range of support plans.

Keeping your equipment running at peak performance is all about maximising your work

time and keeping your equipment running at its best – and your Cat dealer is dedicated to supporting you. As they like to say, “It’s all part of the partnership.”

Order your Cat PM kit or Self-Service Option online at parts.cat.com or pick up from your local Cat dealer.

TO ORDER YOUR SELF-SERVICE OPTION:

• Start on your equipment page.

• Select “Shop parts”.

• Choose a repair type from the list. You’ll see a list of parts and required skill levels.

• Build your Self-Service Option.

• Add it to your cart, check out, and download your step by step instructions.

CATERPILLAR LAUNCHES BIGGER, MORE COMPETITIVE GLOBAL OPERATOR CHALLENGE

Contest will spotlight operator skills, incorporate wider range of construction machines in nearly 40 countries.

Caterpillar invites machine operators around the globe to put their skills and precision to the test in the 2022-2023 Global Operator Challenge. The challenge allows men and women to prove their excellence in safely and efficiently operating Cat® machinery.

“More than 70 Cat dealers will host local, one-of-a-kind competitions, celebrating equipment operators and enabling them to showcase their exceptional skills in fun and dynamic ways,” said Tony Fassino, group president of Construction Industries. “Whether their expertise lies in digging a trench, moving aggregates or managing demolition, our Global Operator Challenge will be demanding for even the most experienced operators.”

In the 2019-2020 challenge, 67 Cat dealers hosted local competitions, and operators from 30 countries participated. The 2022-2023 competition will be Caterpillar’s largest construction industry event of its kind.

CALLING ALL OPERATORS

The challenge will feature three different challenges on three separate pieces

of equipment. Scoring is based on the operator’s skills, efficiency, as well as his or her competence in using integrated technology to enhance the machine’s performance.

“I’ve been operating Cat machines for more than 15 years,” said Jaus Neigum, owner of Industrial Backhoe Ltd. in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada and the 2019-2020 Global

Operator Challenge champion. “Having the opportunity to demonstrate my skills and compete against peers from around the world was one of the most rewarding experiences in my career. And, if you’re a business owner like me, I encourage you to put forward your best operators because this competition is going to be even bigger and better than the last one.”

Qualifiers from the local dealer events will then move to regional semi-final competitions in October 2022 in Japan (all-expense-paid trip for two). Nine finalists will emerge from the regional semifinals around the world and participate in the final competition in March 2023 at Caterpillar’s outdoor Festival Grounds exhibit CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas. The winner will receive an all-expense-paid trip for two to a Caterpillar facility worldwide.

For more information about the Global Operator Challenge, including how to participate, visit www.cat.com/operatorchallenge.

LEICA GEOSYSTEMS MC1: AN ALL-PURPOSE MACHINE CONTROL SOFTWARE PLATFORM

Slotting seamlessly into C.R. Kennedy’s broader portfolio of Leica Geosystems iCON products, the MC1 3D machine control software provides an all-purpose platform to guide and automate all heavy construction machines, including excavators, dozers, graders, wheel loaders and more.

The MC1 software works by comparing the design model to the actual position of the machine’s cutting edge (for instance, a bucket or blade edge), assisting the operator with machine positioning, automatically controlling the position of the cutting edge, and thereby increasing efficiency.

It is carried by the Leica MCP80 panel and MDS Series docking station, with the interchangeable 8-inch full-colour touchscreen panel having been designed to allow for operation across a range of machines, providing for added versatility on job sites.

In addition to this, it is also supported by the cloud-based Leica ConX productivity platform – a cloud-based collaboration tool via which users can visualise and share data – enabling more efficient management of heavy construction projects.

MC1 FUNCTIONS: EFFICIENT DATA HANDLING AND EASE OF USE

The MC1 software is designed to facilitate efficient data handling and ease of use, paving the way for more productive job site operations, and providing a solid platform from which operators can refine and adapt their specific machine control solutions as required.

As advised by Leica, the MC1 software provides for:

• Improved data handling – simplified data handling, with it open to all standard design data types, enabling a flexible flow of data to support common workflows on a job

site. With all construction site machinery, in addition to Leica’s field solution iCON site, running the same design data structure, no data conversion is required, enabling a seamless data transfer between machines, job site field units and the office.

• Drive down costs, boost efficiency –software design consistency across all heavy machine control applications reduces customer training requirements, with the same software platform capable of being used with different sensor configurations, improving scalability, while installers benefit from simplified installation and service processes.

• Simple and intuitive operation – an intuitive graphical interface – incorporating a customcentred design, which supports operators in getting the job done more efficiently and effectively – is uncluttered and features familiar symbols, helping operators focus on the important steps. Meanwhile, an intelligent licensing system enables the add-on of other machine solutions, providing users full flexibility.

MCP80 AND MC1: AN INTELLIGENT AND INTUITIVE COMBINATION

Leica has delivered an intelligent and intuitive hardware and software combination for the heavy construction industry, with its MC1 software forming part of its greater all-in-one machine control platform, consisting of the MCP80 panel and MDS series in-cabin docking stations, supporting multiple machines for heavy construction.

Simplified and connected solutions for increasing staff productivity on site and unifying design data for seamless workflows are essential to keep margin gains and generate profits, with Leica’s machine control solutions designed to underpin efficient operations.

Leica’s solution for heavy construction applications offers a unified hardware platform

with a common software interface across its machine control portfolio. Interchangeable between several heavy construction machines, the MCP80 integrates into the common MC1 software platform, while ConX, the cloud-based and user-friendly productivity platform for increased project efficiency, rounds off Leica’s goal to achieve a digitised construction site.

MCP80 AND MC1 FEATURES

• Fully cable free

• Easy removal of the panel

• P67 environmental rating

• One common interface across all 3D machine control applications

• Simple and intuitive user interface

• Easy installation and quick setup for operators

• Rugged design of cradle and panel

• Docking station with onboard memory

• One software for all for easier operation

MDS SERIES: WORRY-FREE MACHINE SWAPPING

The Leica MDS Series in-cabin docking stations store user calibration values and hydraulic parameters for worry-free machine swapping. The docking stations require no long-winded setups when switching panels, and with an IP67 rating, provide resilience for use in the heavy construction industry.

MDS FEATURES:

• Fully cable-free system

• Assures easy removal of panel

• IP67 environmental rating

• One common interface across all 3D machine control applications

WHAT’S YOUR UVP AND HOW DO YOU FIND IT?

There are very few businesses that are one of a kind. Most in your field will be offering the same product or service, so you need to be able to communicate what is special about your brand.

It could be your speed of delivery, your location, or knowledge and connection to your customer, or maybe it’s your price point.

A UVP isn’t specific marketing offers — like 10% off or free shipping; these are not UVPs.

Once you know your UVP, you can then start rolling out the rest of your marketing plan –setting up your website and social channels, collateral, and other communications for your customers.

So how do you start?

There are many, many formulas and approaches for working out what your UVP is, some are more advanced than others – you could get your whole team in a room for a full analysis of your strengths and weaknesses or outsource the development to brand specialists.

To get you started though, we’ve come across a simple approach from Steve Blank, a former Google employee who noticed that many start-up founders emphasise their features instead of benefits when they try to create a value proposition.

What that means is that there is a tendency to focus on the thing you do or make, instead of focusing on why your customers

should care one bit about your brand –and of course customers choose brands because there is something in it for them. It solves a problem or addresses a pain point.

So, with that, Steve came up with this simple formula to transform a brainstorm into a simple sentence.

We help (X) do (Y) by doing (Z).

X = your customer

Y= the problem that you help them solve

Z = what you do that helps them solve it

If you’re stuck on figuring out your UVP –give the above trick a go and let us know how you go!

If you need help with defining your UVP, head to our website and get in touch www.hc.net.au

THE MACHINES OPERATED IN HEAVEN – SCRAPERS

Now, I’m on record as being a huge fan of scrapers. Back in the day I spent a good portion of my ‘’apprenticeship” sitting on them. I started out on an elevating scraper, then progressed to open bowler, and ended up wheeling twin powered scrapers across a range of applications. Bloody great times indeed!

Pound for pound (and in their economic zone of application), they are THE most cost-effective way to move and place dirt. Why you ask?

Well, they can load on the run, move across the ground quickly, unload in a measured lift (on the run), and they can also assist with compaction. They rarely stop moving. Here are 5 tips to becoming a better scraper operator:

1. EASE UP TIGER

One of the biggest mistakes that most people make the first time they get on a scraper is trying to match it with the experienced operators. Trust me, don’t. Just cruise around at your own speed.

Scrapers are an articulated machine. Add velocity, throw in a good portion of inexperience and any little “moment” you have is amplified by a thousand. Remember steady, steady...

If you find yourself getting into a spot of bother, drop the bowl immediately. If you’re on an edge and you lose the front or rear of the scraper over that edge, DON’T turn up hill. Turn down hill and drop the bowl and wait for the cavalry to arrive.

2. DON’T SCREW THE TYRES OFF THE MACHINE

Like any tyred machine in our game, you must do your best to preserve them. Scraper tyres are no different. When you’re in the cut or even sometimes on the fill, don’t have your foot flat to the floor zoning out to your favourite Celine Dion track. You must tune into the feedback the machine is giving you and adjust.

3. IN THE CUT

Clean as you go. What I mean by this is when you pull into the cut area, scan the floor to see if there’s any windrows or high spots, etc. If there is, trim them on your way through to a thicker part of the cut.

Utilise the straddle loading technique. Say what now?

Straddle loading is all about leaving a strip of material in between each cut of a scraper. The next time you pull into the cut, straddle that strip (commonly known as a bone) of material for easier picking and quicker load time.

And the last one for the cut, remember, it’s not how much you fit in the bowl, it’s how often you fill it.

4. ON THE FILL

Don’t go rogue and dump anywhere, chain dump wherever possible. Chain dumping works as follows – scraper 1 runs its load out, scraper 2 starts unloading from the end of scraper 1’s load, repeat until you reach the end of the fill, then start from the beginning again. Be consistent on layer depth, it’ll change depending on material type and moisture content required, but whatever the magic number for the layer thickness is, stick to it. This helps massively to gain consistent compaction rates across the fill, so your compactor operator will love you. Another

advantage with consistent layers is you’ll have less low spots, which tend to hold water when it rains.

5.

DON’T GET COMPLACENT

Scrapers are the bomb, they’re a bunch of fun, they can hog dirt like tomorrow, and in the right hands are an able trimming machine. But when you think you’ve got them dialed and let complacency into your game, scrapers will bite you and bite you hard. I am saying this from experience having put a scraper on its side 25+ years ago. Not my finest day at the office. I was embarrassed and hugely sorry for the fella that owned the scraper.

Don’t let pride cloud your judgement.

CAT® CS12 GC VIBRATORY SOIL COMPACTOR

If you’re a company specialising in soil compactors in the 10–12-tonne class I doubt EEMhas reviewed a product more relevant and exciting for you than this one. The new Cat® CS12 GC is a game changer with Caterpillar’s clear and distinct focus on performance, value for customers and impressive technology. There’s no doubt this is going to make a huge impact on the market.

Caterpillar has gone back to the drawing board with the new range of compactors producing a design that has focused on quality and enhanced compaction performance. Operator comfort and visibility have also obviously been high on the priority list when designing this impressive machine.

MACHINE DRIVE POWER (MDP)

Caterpillar has yet again gone down the road of exclusive technology with its new Machine Drive Power (MDP). Rounding out this new offering is Caterpillar’s value piece with its Customer Value Agreements, which also adds depth and sophistication to this new offering with hassle-free servicing and long service intervals.

To get down to the nitty gritty with this test drive we enlisted the help of operator and educator Scott Lidster from Australian Earth, with Chris Powell from Caterpillar to assist with product knowledge and machine specs.

OPERATOR // SCOTT LIDSTER REVIEW // JAMIE GRAY

One of the many features of the CS12 GC is improved ease of use, which meant Scott was the perfect operator because it had been about 20 years since he had used a soil compactor, so it was interesting to see how well Scott adapted to the new features and simplified layout and operation. Scott shared, “I’ve been lucky enough over the years to spend time in most types of heavy machinery. My role as an educator for my business Australian Earth sees me travel the world to teach companies and operators the new features and best practices of their new purchases to achieve optimum efficiencies. So, for me it was two decades ago

since I stepped into a soil compactor and it was a very rudimentary experience.”

Scott continued, “Coming into this test drive I’ll be honest and say my expectations were pretty high. I have a high opinion of the Next Gen Cat range of excavators, loaders and dozers, so I knew Caterpillar wouldn’t release anything that wasn’t top shelf and boy was I right – the Cat CS12 GC has come a long way.

“From a technology perspective Caterpillar’s new MDP technology is essentially telling you when the ground has become firm and when you can stop working or move onto a new area. This feature alone is going to save massive

Scott Lidster, Australian Earth.

FEATURES

• Easy to operate.

• Excellent visibility and auto-vibe function.

• Impressive performance in tough applications with gradeability of up to 55%.

• Three years/3000 hours service interval on vibratory system.

• All models are equipped with Cat Machine Drive Power (MDP).

• Hassle-free maintenance with a Cat Customer Value Agreement.

amounts of time, fuel and expense. It really does take the guesswork out of compacting. On the power front for a 10–12 tonne range machine the CS12 GC is impressively nimble on the ground and can climb an incline of up to 55 degrees.”

EXCELLENT VISIBILITY IN COMFORT CAB

While filming Scott operate the compactor, I couldn’t help but admire the clean all-glass cabin and once I sat in the machine it confirmed my thoughts. You are literally surrounded by glass from head to toe making vision and confidence when operating the CS12 GC truly next level. “Many operators will have to work right up to an edge with these machines, either close to a drop off or other sensitive area. The visibility from the chair with the full glass panels is excellent. Operators working in sensitive areas will love this epic cabin design and the confidence it will bring during operation,” said Scott.

AUTO VIBE

Another great piece of tech is the auto vibe feature, which delivers the perfect amount of vibration to achieve optimum results based on the type of ground you are working from. When Scott first drove past me and activated the vibration I was amazed at its power from where I stood about 5m away. This machine is designed for serious heavy-duty commercial soil compacting capabilities.

When I asked Scott about any other standout features he jumped straight into the following: “Operators are going to really appreciate the large LCD screen in the top right corner of the front glass panel, which made reversing a breeze. The seat is also very comfortable for operators who spend long hours in the machine. It’s a comfortable cabin with the luxuries you would expect like AC, but something that I was also quite surprised by was that when steering and bringing in the vibration the hydraulics didn’t go missing – it was a seamless and powerful experience. On the in-cab noise and vibration, Caterpillar has done a standout job keeping the cab quiet and comfortable. The vibration dampening for the cab works amazingly well.”

LEADING COMPACTION PERFORMANCE

After receiving great feedback from Scott it was time to scratch the surface with Chris and find out what else is combining to make this roller such an impressive machine, “The key strength of this machine is its industry leading compaction performance, which we have experienced and seen today. On top of that we have maintained our B series hitch with the GC, which is an important part of the machine. It really does take a large load and is a maintenance-free hitch for customers, which adds up in terms of serviceability. Caterpillar has obviously put a lot of time and energy into the cab in terms of functionality and comfort. The new MDP technology is exciting to bring to the market because it provides vastly important information to customers about when to stop compacting and when you have reached the required mark specified for the project. It’s going to save a lot of time and fuel over the course of a project,” said Chris.

The icing on the cake is the Cat® Customer Value Agreement (CVA), which is delivered through the dealership network where the product link data (including EPP and maintenance service agreements) is sent to the customer ensuring hassle-free servicing.

•

MURRUMBIDGEE IRRIGATION AND CJD EQUIPMENT

The team at Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) is one of the biggest private irrigation companies in Australia serving 3093 landholdings – that’s an area of 378,911m². So when it came to partnering with a machine manufacturer and supplier to service their irrigation water and drainage services, CJD Equipment and Volvo were the obvious choice.

MI’s core business is delivery of water through an extensive integrated supply and drainage network. The MIA is one of the most diverse and productive regions in Australia, forming part of the Murray-Darling Basin with an area of 190,000 hectares being irrigated.

CHATTING WITH MI CIVIL MAINTENANCE MANAGER, SIMON JACKSON

Simon Jackson is the manager for civil maintenance at MI and shared the vital role Volvo machines play in delivering irrigation

water to this important farmland. “Here at MI we have purchased seven Volvo machines over the years, which we use daily to desilt our drainage and supply networks. They are also used for construction activities across our network. Currently on hand we have three long reach machines, three 20-tonne machines and one 14-tonne machine. We purchased our first machine back in 2010, which was a long reach machine and one we had previously used and found its features

perfectly suited to our needs. The new long reach Volvo machines had the added benefits of great fuel consumption, reach and reliability that is part and parcel with the type of work we do across our network.

Simon continued, “Since that first purchase the introduction of key benefits to the Volvo fleet has been significant, including added reliability, increased power and reduced fuel costs. The addition of technologies has also been a huge factor for us with 3D-equipped technology

being present in our current machines because this will continue to allow us to broaden our technology range in coming years.”

Watching the MI Volvo machines work side by side along the irrigation channel that supports the farmland was a picturesque sight. We had a stunning 40-degree day with blue skies so seeing the Volvos lined up and in full work mode

was impressive to say the least, as typically the machines would be spread out working in separate areas.

USING THE VOLVO’S TO ACHIEVE OPTIMUM WATER FLOW

Silt and weed are one of the biggest challenges to the Irrigation Network, so the Volvo’s are used to clear out the irrigation channels to

allow the water flow as designed. Filming this process, you get a pretty clear picture as to why the Long Reach Volvos are so important to a company like Murrumbidgee Irrigation.

MI has grown and developed a key relationship with CJD Equipment since 2010 and in particular with the CJD Equipment area representative Ross Forsyth in recent years.

Simon Jackson, Civil Maintenance Manager, Murrumbidgee Irrigation.

Simon commented, “Ross as our key sales rep has gone into great detail with the purchase of our recent machines. The way both Ross and CJD Equipment pride themselves on delivery of their machines and all the background detail is second to none. Ross originally started as a service technician to our machines and since that time has move into his sales role, which has been a great move by CJD Equipment. As we all know machines can on occasion breakdown, but CJD was quick

to respond and set up multiple technicians along with the added backing of their technical support to assist us with any issues over the years. This has been key for us and obviously our service that comes with CJD is second to none.

FLEET OF SEVEN VOLVO MACHINES

With the MI fleet now standing at seven Volvo machines, the four latest purchases, which were in operations for us on location in Griffith today, are the EC250E and EC220E Long Reach, and two EC220ELs

After chatting with the Volvo machine operators, it was obvious they love operating these machines, especially on days like the one we had while filming. The most comfortable place to be by far was inside the cab with the AC cranked up to easily beat the 40 degrees outside. Other features that the operators mentioned they really enjoyed were the fingertip controls, adjustable operating position and the ease of operation. The latest spec technology was also appreciated by the operators with 2D Dig Assist being a great inclusion.

TALKING SHOP WITH CJD’S ROSS FORSYTH

It was a pleasure to catch up with Ross while in Griffith. Ross’s previous life as a service technician places him in an excellent position in his current sales role. His knowledge and technical/mechanical understanding of the Volvo range provides Ross with an understated confidence and well-grounded presence as a sale rep. This combined with his personable and upbeat personality, it’s no surprise Ross is building such strong relationships with his customers.

While chatting with Ross about his time working alongside Simon and MI, he shared,

Ross Forsyth, Area Representative, CJD Equipment; and Simon Jackson, Civil Maintenance Manager, Murrumbidgee Irrigation.

“I’ve been working with MI for six years including my time as a mechanic. Their first machine was a 21 tonner back in 2010 and over my last four years in sales MI has been moving into the EC machine range. Simon and his team have plans down the track to move into 3D capabilities and also wanted the freedom to be able to choose which direction to go in at a later date – all features that the EC machines were more than capable of providing and going with the 2D Dig Assist made that decision a lot easier for them.”

Ross continued, “Some other features that stood out on the new machines for MI on the EC250E Long Reach were the 1000-hour service interval, along with the impressive fuel economy. Simon and my relationship has been awesome and to see it grow over the years has been a pleasure. Watching MI grow, adapt and embrace these new machines and technologies has been one of the highlights of my role in sales with CJD Equipment and I look forward to seeing what success the future has in store for Murrumbidgee Irrigation.”

From left: Peter Waring-Bryant, Geoff Parker, Matt Hunt and Jason Newman.

ROADBRIDGE EXCAVATIONS AND KOBELCO

The gas and water sectors are specialty areas for excavation companies requiring a broad mix of skills from operators and often heavy demands on machinery. Ned O’Neill from Roadbridge Excavations says it’s been their Kobelco range of machines that have always delivered the high-end results required by their clients. It’s been a mixture of performance, efficiencies and reliability which allowed them to dig their way to success.

WORDS // IMAGES JAMIE GRAY

Based in Victoria and focusing mostly on greater Melbourne areas, Ned has been busy working for the main water and gas authorities while slowly building his fleet of Kobelcos over the last 15 years. During this time Ned has progressively stepped across into bigger and higher demand machines. Ned’s most recent Kobelco purchase was the SK380XDLC excavator, which was an obvious choice due to its heavier 38-tonne operating weight and extra heavy-duty configuration.

The XD machines are built extra tough for extreme work environments and have enjoyed a considerable amount of beefing up in several areas. From the new XD boom with thicker/stronger plates to the side deck bumpers, upper under covers, reinforced guide frame, track guides, track links, reinforced travel motor cover and lower frame underside cover, there are plenty of upgrades that make this XD the perfect choice for high demand operations.

Ned O’Neill, Roadbridge Excavations.

The main advantages for Ned and his team at Roadbridge come from the thicker, heavier duty boom, which allows the team to operate heavy-duty attachments like large 4-tonne hammers, which they operate almost daily. This ability to utilise power-heavy attachments speeds up their work and keeps their clients happy by meeting deadlines and the quality of their excavations. The power and performance of the SK380XDLC also means there is less stress on the machine itself, which has been specifically designed to run at optimum levels with these types of highly demanding heavy attachments. The addition of the new arm interflow system more efficiently controls hydraulic fluid flow and delivers a significant reduction of in-line resistance and pressure loss, which in turn improves fuel efficiency.

Comfort and visibility were also high on the design priority list for operators. Paddy Corrigan is the main operator in Roadbridge’s new 38-tonne XD machine and after watching

him rip into the day’s duties, the significance and importance of comfort, good visibility and a well laid-out cabin and controls really hit home. “We are often working on busy sites with large hammers and other attachments,

so having the controls exactly where I need them with the ability to configure the cabin and seat allows me to get into the zone where I can operate at my best without distractions and in complete comfort. The removal of

Ned O’Neill, Roadbridge Excavations and Simon Gillespie, Melbourne Tractors.

vibration and loud noise means even at the end of the day I’m not fatigued both mentally and physically. My production and efficiencies are high with excellent safety throughout the day,” said Paddy.

As I reviewed the GoPro footage of Paddy working, I could see exactly what he was saying

because he looked like the machine was an extension of himself as he ripped in. On our day of filming it was only 26 degrees, but the day before had been well into the mid-30s and with the AC doing its job well, Paddy shared, “The conditions in the cab were absolutely mint. It was nice and cool even in the hottest part

of the day. On the flipside on those freezing mid-winter days the heater and heated seat keep my backside nice and warm. There’s absolutely nothing to complain about there.”

Ned’s passion for earthmoving started back in his homeland of Ireland when his uncle taught him how to operate a mixture of earthmoving equipment when he was just a small boy. After some time in the industry as a young man, Ned served as a stainless steel fabricator and worked in this area for five or six years, but when Ned moved to Australia in 1998 it was the earthmoving industry that was calling. It was a calling Ned couldn’t ignore and today Roadbridge Excavations is a major player in the water and gas sector. “I originally started working with another brand of machine, but after exploring what Kobelco machines had to offer, it was a combination of price, fuel economy, power/performance and comfort of the Kobelcos which saw me step into my first machine. Today, we are running six Kobelcos, which we have purchased from Simon Gillespie at Melbourne Tractors. Simon’s been great to deal with and when we had one or two mechanical issues the Melbourne Tractor team had us back up and running quickly. Melbourne Tractors helped us streamline our operation and took the hard work out of both purchasing and servicing our machines,” shared Ned.

During our visit to Melbourne we also spent time onsite with Simon Gillespie and while chatting, he shared some history about his relationship with Ned and Roadbridge Excavations. “I had only been in my role with Melbourne Tractors for two months when Ned purchased his first machine from me. So, it’s safe to say as one of my first clients it’s been a pleasure to work with Ned and his team and help them grow.”

Simon continued, “When discussing Ned’s requirements over the years, I’ve built up quite a good understanding of what Roadbridge Excavations really need in their daily operations, and I knew the SK380XDLC would be a perfect fit for multiple reasons. With

Roadbridge’s requirements for heavier and higher performance attachments, the heavy duty features and performance of the XD was going to be perfect for outfits like Ned’s looking to ramp up production in and around the heavier 38-tonne range. The fact that the XD also comes with great fuel economy, impressive hydraulic power and excellent comfort are the finishing touches that are seeing many earthmoving operations step across into the larger Kobelco machines –something that only a few years back would not have traditionally happened to this extent. It’s a positive sign that Kobelco has lifted its game with its larger machines and the industry is taking notice.”

AGTRANS HARNESSES PREMIUM POWER AND PERFORMANCE OF LIEBHERR PR 736 DOZER

Based in Hawera, in South Taranaki on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, lifting, transport and logistics specialist Agtrans has carved out a strong niche in the local market, establishing itself over the past decade as a leading supplier of heavy haulage, craneage and truck-mounted crane work.

Established in 2012, Agtrans operates a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week business, with the capacity to lift and move big, wide, heavy and oversized loads into awkward and hard-to-reach places, with it operating a state-of-the-art equipment fleet.

Owner CJ Mahony told EEM he had initially come from a background in equipment hire and commercial water-blasting, with Agtrans having evolved as it has added to its fleet of cranes and built its service suite.

“Over the years Agtrans has merged into becoming a crane company,” CJ explained. “I’ve now got six mobile cranes, and also have two new Liebherr mobile cranes on order, waiting for delivery at the moment.”

In addition to this, Agtrans provides general transport, oversize load pilots, riggers, man-cages, silo and vessel transport, and tip truck services, making it a one-stop shop service for its clients’ lifting, transport and logistics requirements.

A PASSION FOR EARTHMOVING

While earthmoving isn’t an established component of Agtrans’ service offering (it does do some civil work for the oil and gas sector), CJ told EEM that he has long maintained an interest in the industry.

“I’ve always had a bit of a passion for earthmoving,” he said. “It’s actually always been a bit of a hobby for me. I own a number of commercial buildings, and I’ve always tried to do my own site works.”

This includes his current project, a 20-hectare commercial and residential subdivision, consisting of 31 commercial and 75 residential lots, with a total of 680,000m3 to cut and fill over a five-year span.

His ongoing relationship with equipment manufacturer Liebherr made it a logical first port of call when seeking a dozer to tackle the project, with CJ eventually taking delivery of PR 736 crawler dozer.

“We’re very familiar with Liebherr’s level of service, from a parts and support point of view, and also very familiar from a machine quality point of view.

“When looking at the PR 736, I was also pleasantly surprised by the price, which is very, very competitive compared with what this multifunctional tool can offer.

“Through the Liebherr hydrostatic drive, the machine automatically and continuously delivers the correct traction when ripping, without any gear changes. The undercarriage design also gives operators the added benefit of a low centre of gravity.

“Due to the electronic pilot control, not only can the operator set the speed of the machine, you can also select the reactivity and speed of the operating hydraulics in the display.

“I ended up buying it sight unseen. I was teed up to go and test drive one, but COVID kicked in the way of that. So, eventually I ran out of patience and I purchased it sight unseen. I was very comfortable doing this, based on my previous experiences with Liebherr.”

PR

736

DOZER PROVIDES A PREMIUM PERFORMANCE

Craig Nicholson, Key Account Manager for Liehberr New Zealand’s Earthmoving Division, noted that while Liebherr’s Mobile Cranes Division has been working with Agtrans since 2016, he initially began servicing CJ mid-last year.

“CJ has been great to deal with, moving what he knows about Liebherr cranes into the earthmoving line,” he commented. “Liebherr is considered the best of equipment, and CJ knows this in regard to cranes, and has transferred this to the earthmoving productas well.”

Craig said the PR 736 is designed to provide a premium performance, with features including

The PR 736 is powered by a high-torque Tier 4 final diesel engine.

The PR 736 is designed to provide excellent fuel efficiency.

a high-torque Tier 4 final diesel engine, and hydrostatic travel drive for stepless power transmission, providing the right speed for each application, from pushing to ripping, with no loss of power.

The PR 736 additionally delivers outstanding manoeuvrability and maximum traction on any terrain, provides excellent fuel efficiency, with a high-efficiency travel drive and wear-free service brake, and features precise single-lever control with adjustable joysticks for comfortable operations.

Craig advised that CJ had ordered a unit decked out with: a 6-way blade (4.63m 3 capacity), low ground pressure with 812mm single grouser track pads, LED lighting, 3-shank ripper to rear, Tier 4 final emission system, Topcon ready kit and a Liebherr rear camera.

Having taken delivery of the PR 736 last year, CJ told EEM he has put several hours into the machine, with it having met all his expectations.

“I’ve done 250 hours on the machine, all by myself,” he said. “That’s my little hobby project at the moment. I probably should let someone else in it, but that’s my passion and I enjoy doing it myself.

“I’m really pleased with its performance, really pleased with the comfort of the machine, and the Topcon 3D machine control has in particular proven to be really beneficial.”

PR 736 DOZER PROVES A FAMILY FAVOURITE

It’s not just CJ who is pleased with the addition of the PR 736 to his fleet, with his four-yearold son, Sebastian, keen on the machine too – so much so, that CJ even built him a mini version, having got the idea after one of his staff showed him a YouTube video of a small homemade bulldozer.

“I knew straight away I needed to build one for Sebastian, and came up with a few ideas,” CJ explained.

“At first I thought about using a small (under 1 tonne) excavator, but came across a small tracked dumper, which was the perfect start point, and immediately gave me tracks, motor, hydraulic system with controls and enough

rams to make everything work.

“Effectively, I’ve pulled the dump body off and fitted the seat and canopy in that space and used the rams from the dump body function to operate the blade.

“Sebastian is very keen on the PR 736, and has sat in with me operating a few times, but keeps telling me we need a new excavator to go with it!”

Both CJ and Craig expect that business will remain busy in 2022, with this momentum to continue into the foreseeable future.

“We’re certainly very busy,” CJ commented. “In fact, we’re struggling to keep up with demand, and in 2022 I see a continuation of that. I don’t see it slowing down in our area for some time.”

Craig told EEM that Liebherr has been steadily increasing its footprint within New Zealand in recent years.

“Customers are now taking into account lowest overall cost of ownership and lowest cost per tonne of product moved – spanning high performance, lower fuel consumption, machine reliability and easy maintenance – and this is where Liebherr exceeds,” he said. “We are growing as new customers come onboard.”

For further information, please visit:

CASE STUDY

The Liebherr PR 736 delivers outstanding manoeuvrability and maximum traction on any terrain.

Hand-built mini dozer CJ built for his son Sebastian.

DIECI VEHICLES MEET THE NEEDS OF ANY CONSTRUCTION SITE

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

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

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

From the compact Apollo to the heavy-duty Hercules, the Dieci range features vehicles from 2.5 to 21 tonne with lift heights from 6 to 17 metres. Their offering also extends to EWP models that are perfectly suited to meet the demanding requirements presented by Australian conditions. These vehicles excel in applications such as new constructions, renovations, restorations, maintenance works and even the assembly of large renewable energy plants and wind farms.

Available in the rotating boom range is the 4 to 6 tonne Pegasus. With either continuous (360°) or non-continuous (400°) rotation, these telehandlers can be fitted with a variety of accessories, making them suitable for many tasks. The Pegasus family can safely and easily reach tall heights, lift heavy loads and, thanks to the rotation system, work on multiple points without having to be repositioned.

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

Characterised as the most powerful Italian hydrostatic truck mixer, Dieci mixers are unique for their strength and manageability. A variety of mixer sizes to suit all types of applications are available including the F7000, with a capacity of up to 5 cubic metres, to the midrange L4700 and L3500. Dimensional stability and a long life are guaranteed due to the high thickness of steel used for the mixing drum.

Dieci’s dumpers are also versatile, lightweight and easy to handle. Each model has specific characteristics, especially designed for every work requirement. Central articulated steering provides a tight turning radius, so that it can easily move onsite.

When it comes to maintenance, Dieci vehicles excel due to the use of durable components and cutting-edge materials. With more than half a century of experience in the

telehandler sector, the company is consistently finding ways to simplify the serviceability of their vehicles.

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

Designed and created in the same Italian region as Ferrari, Dieci telehandlers make short work of any job – big or small.

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

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

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

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

NEW CAT® 304 AND 305 CR MINI HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS DELIVER MORE POWER AND PERFORMANCE WITH LOWER OPERATING COSTS

The much-anticipated arrival of the new 4-tonne, Cat® 304, and 5-tonne, Cat 305 CR, Next Generation Mini Hydraulic Excavators are arriving to Australian shores. This completes Caterpillar’s Next Generation line-up of their mini-excavators, now offering 15 separate models starting from the Cat 301.5 at 1.7-tonnes up to the Cat 310 at 10-tonnes.

The new Cat ® 304 and 305 CR delivers more power to the pumps, higher bucket breakout forces and deeper standard digging depths to increase performance by up to 20% over their previous E2 series models. Their industry-leading grease intervals and extended filter service life, combined with common components throughout the line-up together with flat, easy-to-replace side panels that promise to deliver up to 10% lower owner and operating costs.

The new 304 and 305 CR models are the final machines to be released with a complete new design from the ground up to the Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavator line concept. From the 1.5- to 10-tonne class models, all 15 Cat mini hydraulic excavators in the range offer common features and consistent control layouts to simplify training and operator adaptation.

Cat® 304 Mini Excavator.

NEW 304 INCREASES STABILITY

Built with a new reduced radius design, the 304 features a 1700mm track width, 254mm slimmer than the 304 E2, for more versatility and access to confined spaces. While narrower, the new 304 design also increases performance, balance and stability of the 4-tonne class model. Caterpillar have achieved this by moving from a compact to reduced radius counterweight that allows f or greater stability, both in 360-degree operation and when travelling with loads, while its extra counterweight option takes the model to an even higher level of stability.

COMPACT PERFORMANCE OF THE 305 CR

The new engine on the 5-tonne class Cat 305 CR Excavator delivers nearly 9% greater power to increase machine performance. Hydraulic system improvements provide higher breakout forces – 49.2 kN, bucket, 28.3 kN with standard stick and 25.2 kN with long stick – to improve digging efficiency in hard rock applications. It also offers 140mm deeper dig depths than the 305 E2, giving it more application flexibility. Its compact radius swing reduces overhang when working to the side, while its 1980mm (78-in) track width and new extra counterweight option help to optimise stability and lift performance in confined spaces.

ADVANCED EFFICIENCY

Both excavator models now offer an angle dozer blade option to optimise machine flexibility in backfilling and finish grading applications. In addition to offering ample above- and below-grade travel with standard float function for easy clean-up, the angle blade moves 45 degrees left or right of centre. Increasing efficiencies and reducing operator interaction with final grading, angle blade movement is controlled by the right-hand joystick, while the left joystick handles machine drive by using stick steer control.

Tailoring machine weight to job requirements, interchangeable counterweight packages offer the balance between low ground pressure and lifting performance. Their industry-exclusive Cat Stick Steer System simplifies machine

MODEL 304

Engine

Cat® C1.7 Turbo

Net power, kW (hp) 33.6 (45)

Gross power, kW (hp) 36.1 (48.4)

Min. weight with cab, kg (lb) 4025 (8,875)

Max. weight with cab, kg (lb) 4475 (9,867)

Tail swing radius Reduced

Dig depth standard, mm (in) 3210 (126.4)

Dig depth long, mm (in) 3510 (138.2)

Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan at minimum speed, air intake system, exhaust system, and alternator.

control by allowing the operator to switch from conventional lever/foot-pedal steering controls to low-effort joystick operation. Two travel speed ranges and standard cruise control facilitate moving around the jobsite with minimum operator interaction.

Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards, the turbocharged Cat C1.7 Turbo engine delivers higher power than the previous C2.4 engine. Standard auto idle, auto engine shutdown and efficient load-sensing hydraulics with variable displacement pump help to lower fuel usage at the site for more affordable operation. High main-relief pressures, coupled with flow rates, generates the hydraulic capacity for high digging and lifting forces and more efficient use of a range of attachments. Complete with quick-disconnect lines, the standard auxiliary system provides the choice of one-way, two-way or continuous flow.

NEXT GENERATION COMFORT, SAVINGS Common to all cab version Cat next generation

mini hydraulic excavators, the sealed and pressurised cab enclosure is available with heating and air conditioning for all-weather climate control. The cab’s large glass areas plus skylight afford all-around visibility. The large display with advanced touchscreen option provides intuitive machine function control and easy monitoring of critical operating parameters. A canopy option is available in some regions.

Daily maintenance checks for the 304 and 305 CR are quickly made from ground level through side doors. Expanded use of common parts throughout the line plus their damageresistant exterior construction help to reduce parts inventory investment and lower repair costs. Increased service intervals mean these excavators spend more time on the job and less time in the shop.

Offerings may vary by region. More information on the new Cat 304 and 305 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavators can be found by contacting the local Cat dealer or visiting: www.cat.com/catmini-au

CASTROL’S NEW SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

Castrol is helping to drive a more sustainable future with its recently announced PATH360 strategy.

The strategy set out aims for 2030 to save waste, reduce carbon and improve lives, not just in Australia and New Zealand, but on a global basis.

Castrol became Australia’s pioneer in carbon neutral lubricants in 2016, when the premium Castrol VECTON range of diesel engine oils became the first to be certified as carbon neutral.

In 2021, all Castrol products sold in Australia and New Zealand will commit to carbon neutrality in accordance with PAS 2060.

CASTROL’S 120-YEAR FIGHT AGAINST FRICTION, CORROSION AND WEAR

Close to a quarter of the world’s energy is believed to be lost to friction, corrosion, and wear as per a study by Kenneth Holmberg and Ali Erdemir.

“From Castrol’s earliest days, we have delivered products that help save energy by fighting exactly these problems,” says Jotika Prasad, Castrol Marketing Director, Australia and New Zealand. Castrol is also supporting new and growing sectors, like renewable energy and e-mobility with products and services.

For example, Castrol is the first lubricant supplier in the world to offer PAS 2060-certified

carbon neutral lubricants for the wind turbine industry.

REDUCING PRODUCT LIFE-CYCLE CARBON EMISSIONS

As well as significantly increasing its carbon neutral offers to Australian customers, Castrol is aiming to halve its own global use of virgin plastic packaging from its 2019 baseline. The PATH360 strategy is based on circular thinking, which means the company is looking at the life-cycle of its existing and new products, to see how they can be improved, extended, reused, or recycled.

“Customers in the mining and CVO sectors are especially committed to reducing their carbon emissions,” said Jane Carland, General Manager Castrol Australia and New Zealand, “and we plan to be an important partner in helping them achieve their goals and our target is to halve the net carbon intensity of our products by 2030.”

For example, three of Castrol’s plants globally moved to renewable electricity in 2020. At the same time, the company has developed new lightweight bottle designs which use less plastic, saving on a global basis 7000 tonnes per year by 2023.

CARBON NEUTRAL PROJECTS

To help fulfil its carbon neutral program, Castrol works with bp Target Neutral who purchase carbon carbon credits that support a portfolio of carbon reduction, avoidance, and removal projects around the world.

These include support for projects such as the Zhaoyuan Zhangxing wind energy scheme in China, which mitigates more than 180,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year by replacing fossil fuel power.

Another such project has supported investment in solar energy in India, through a large-scale project that helps provide reliable and cost-effective off-grid electricity for families and business.

To date, 60,000 solar units have been distributed.

BUILDING ON ACHIEVEMENTS

Castrol’s Senior Vice President, Mandhir Singh, said: “PATH360 builds upon work we’ve been doing for years, pulling it all together into one integrated sustainability program. We know that many of our customers are looking for more sustainable offers and help with their sustainability goals, and this is what this program is designed to deliver.”

A SMALL STEP ON OUR PATH TO CHANGE

in accordance with PAS 2060, see www.castrol.com/cneutral for more information.

The C02e emissions are calculated in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s Product Life Cycle Standard and includes life cycle emissions. The demonstration of carbon neutrality will be assured by an Independent Third-Party and certified to BSI’s PAS 2060 carbon neutral specification. See www.castrol.com/cneutral for more information.

AEG ONSITE – THE TOOL SHOP THAT COMES TO YOU

There aren’t too many things more annoying than when you’re trying to run a business but you have to stop work to replace a dead or dying power tool. Or you or your workers need a new tool to fix a specific problem and you must go and hunt one down. AEG knows how costly downtime can be, regardless of whether you’re running a small business or large, multi-site operation. That’s why years ago they created the Onsite Team.

Staffed by tool experts who’ve been in the industry for years, AEG understands what you need and why you need it in a hurry. They deliver the right tools to wherever you need them, for free.

There’s no mucking around. One phone call to your Onsite rep is all it takes. Not only do they sell all the latest AEG construction power tools and outdoor power equipment – many of which have class-leading specs – they also have their vans stocked with Empire and Kango hand tools and accessories. It’s a real tool shop on wheels.

What’s more, you can transact onsite so before you know it you’re back on the tools doing what you do best.

All vans are fully stocked to service every trade – especially heavy machinery, agriculture and the farming industry, like cordless grease guns, high torque wrenches and augers. AEG tool

specialists can even tailor a one-off kit to suit your needs.

They also offer bulk order pricing, too.

And don’t forget AEG brewery nights where you get one-off specials, tool demos, chat with the Onsite team and have a craft beer or two. Ask an Onsite team member for dates of an event near you.

All AEG Onsite team trade customers get the same high level of service – regardless of the size of their operation. Order tools and batteries, check up on repairs and servicing, handle any warranty issues directly.

So, if your business needs:

• VIP treatment

• Quality power tools delivered in a hurry

• Free delivery where you need it

• A single point of contact

• The ability to transact onsite

• Special kit pricing

• New tool demos

• Invites to fun brewery nights

Give Matt from the Onsite team a call on 0438 110 636 or visit aegpowertools.com.au/onsite for more details.

ENGINE STANDS MAKE YOUR ENGINE RECONDITIONING JOB EASIER

Designed for professionals and enthusiast workshop mechanics, the range of HAFCO engine stands provides an efficient and practical solution for anyone working on engines.

The HAFCO ESR-450 engine stand has a capacity of 450kg and incorporates innovative design features for safety and functionality. This stand is operated via a geared worm drive that provides precise positioning with minimal effort.

This geared mechanism has a manual crank handle mounted at the rear of the stand. The crank can be operated with around 95 per cent less human physical strength than conventional stands. The geared crank allows the user to easily rotate an engine block 360 degrees through any convenient angle position, with the

major benefit of easier access when rebuilding an engine or dissembling components.

Engineered for user convenience, supporting legs are located beside the engine suspension area for complete engine access through full rotation. The open leg design is very handy, as it enables a fluids catchment vessel to be placed directly under the centre line of the engine for convenient collection of used lubricants and coolants.

Four caster wheels let you move the unit safely and effortlessly across the floor to exactly where the stand is needed.

Like all models in the HAFCO engine stand range, the ESR-450 is manufactured from high grade steel with a super durable powder coated finish, with rigid components secured with heavy-duty nylon lock nuts that ensure the stands remain tight and rigid.

If you are tight for space and need to store the engine stand, its legs easily fold up and can be secured with heavy duty pins.

Further details and full specifications available at www.machineryhouse.com.au/Engine-Stands

HAFCO ESR-450.

HAFCO ESR-450 Engine Stan Engine Stand in stored position.

HITACHI EXCAVATORS ARE THE PREFERRED CHOICE AT DIXON ROCK AND BLOCK

New South Wales based wholesaler Dixon Sand is a family-owned business, opening its doors in 1955 by its founder the late Ken Dixon. The operation and management of the business has been handed down to Ken’s son David Dixon. Dixon Sand supplies specialty sands to numerous sporting fields including Telstra Stadium and The Sydney Cricket Ground.

Their work extends to golf courses and soil yards, with mortar sand being their biggest seller. Dixon Sand strives to produce the highest quality product while maintaining finest environmental practices.

Dixon Sand introduced specialised stone cutting into their sand production business several years ago. Due to their massive and continuous growth, the business ventured out and Dixon Rock and Block was created in 2020.

Also managed by David Dixon, this division specialises in the expert cutting of raw and finished blocks of renowned Australian sandstone and the supply of crushed sandstone through to large blocks for subdivision, retaining walls and general construction, from their Maroota operation.

Their centralised location in Maroota, New South Wales, sets Dixon Sand apart from the competition. Situated 60km from Sydney’s central business district enables the convenient supply of products to customers in the Sydney metropolitan areas.

Twenty-five pieces of machinery currently in the fleet and a team of 10 employees, Dixon Rock and Block is enjoying their market growth and complements their highly skilled operator’s and the reliability of their specialised cutting machinery.

Dixon Rock and Block have built a solid business relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd (HCA) over the past years; during this time purchasing four Hitachi ZX360 excavators (3 x ZX360LCH-5 and 1 x ZX360LC-5) with a fifth Hitachi

The Hitachi excavators came with custom Wedgelock hitches to suit their existing attachments, which were built to the specifications of Dixon Rock and Block. Also featuring upgraded auxiliary hydraulics to work with the company’s custom rock saws and an upgraded operating weight and ROPS structure to increase stability and safety of the machine.

As a Reliable Solutions advocate, “HCA have lived up to its name delivering high quality, performance-driven robust excavators with little to no issues,” adds Jason Galea and Jayden Rejtano, Operation Managers at Dixon Rock and Block. Also adding, “Most of our work

is cutting and breaking sandstone with large hydraulic rock saws and hydraulic hammers, which the Hitachi range of excavators handles extremely well.”

The smooth performance of the Hitachi ZX360 excavators, the spacious cab, along with the inclusion of a drink cooler and full HEPA filter air conditioning “have made these machines the preferred choice and most favoured amongst our operators,” comments Jason.

As well as having a great support group at the Hitachi Revesby branch providing parts and servicing of equipment, the team at Dixon Rock and Block are certain that if any issues do arise, it will be rectified on the same day thanks to HCA Sales Representative Anthony Brown and Customer Service Representative George Paradisis.

“Anthony and George are our first point of contact at Hitachi, both will go over and beyond, we can’t fault their service in anyway,” Brad Mackey, Operations Manager at Dixon Rock and Block.

ZX360LCH-5 excavator on order and due for delivery early 2022.

GROWTH SEES STRONG PARTNERSHIP FORMED WITH EAST COAST CIVIL AND RDO EQUIPMENT

Family business East Coast Civil has seen a lot of change and growth over the past 20 years, but one thing that has helped them ride the waves of business success is strong business partners – like RDO Equipment.

East Coast Civil, based in the Logan Shire of Queensland, started operating as a civil contracting company in the late 90s, overseen by Mark McLachlan. Today, his son Sam works alongside Mark running the business, which has expanded to plant hire as well as civil contracting, working on projects as far north as Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

Sam says in the last two years in particular, the business has seen growth thanks to the momentum of infrastructure projects in the region, like the Brisbane, Toowoomba and Gold Coast airport developments, the Brisbane green bridge construction and the residential housing boom.

“As with any business, it can be very cyclical and we must ride the good and bad times, but things are looking good at the moment, and we’re excited to continue to see growth,” Sam says.

“South-East Queensland is starting to feel the momentum of a lot of the infrastructure announcements, which has allowed us to grow and take on more staff, and upgrade our equipment.”

This growth has seen Sam and East Coast Civil add another John Deere 670GP Grader to their fleet, purchased through RDO Equipment.

“Our first John Deere Grader was bought nearly 10 years ago from the previous Australian dealer, but our operators have been requesting we get another as they just love the machine and find it easy to work with.

“This was our first time working with RDO Equipment, and the service and support has been phenomenal. They’ve answered our questions, handled issues quickly and treated us like we’ve been a customer for years. They’re very in touch and connected with their customers.”

Sam says they considered several factors before deciding to purchase another 670GP Grader.

“The weight of the machine stood out for us. It’s weighted in the right parts, which makes manoeuvrability a lot easier. The horsepower is incredible, thanks to the bigger sized motor, but the big one is the hydraulics. John Deere machines have that in spades. The touch-sensitive control allows you to feel

what you’re doing and where you’re moving –it’s a big gamechanger,” Sam says.

“The quality and productivity of the machine, combined with the service and support from the RDO Equipment team means we will definitely look to add more to our fleet and work with them again.”

THE REAL THING MULTI GRAB BUCKET MK3 BY ATTACH2

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.

WHAT IS THE MULTI GRAB BUCKET?

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.

WHY USE A MULTI GRAB BUCKET?

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.

THE PERFECT CREW BOOT

Blundstone’s commitment to providing new designs that cater to all crew members has arrived with the launch of the #243 ‘crew boot’. Whether you’re a builder, construction worker, tradie, or work in a warehouse, the Blundstone #243 is the perfect low-cut boot for the team to step into.

The launch of the #243 coincides perfectly in the lead-up to the back-to-work period, making it a great option for businesses looking to kit out their crew in durable, comfortable and safe work boots for the new year.

Victorian construction company Evolv Homes was among the first to kit out their crew in this new style, with an overwhelmingly positive reception from the guys on site: “The new wheat boots fit like a glove, built for the site all day every day,” commented Gav, while David was effusive with praise: “The new wheat boots make long days on-site on the feet a whole lot easier. Comfortable, durable and sturdy.”

Made in Blundstone’s signature waterresistant wheat nubuck upper – a firm favourite in the #992 – the #243 is a 135mm high safety boot with a padded collar and tongue and plenty of comfort due to Blundstone’s exclusive SPS Max comfort system, making it the perfect boot for those on their feet all day.

“Our new #243 is a boot that every member of the crew, from the master to the apprentice, will love. This wheat coloured, water-resistant, low-cut style is packed full of all our mod-cons, with the bonus of a lightweight TPU outsole. Perfectly timed for the Back to Work period, and available at a great price point, the #243 ticks all the boxes for every member of the team,” says Adrian Blandford, Global Work & Safety Range Manager.

Blundstone #243 | RRP $199. Features include:

• Wheat nubuck upper in a new low-cut design.

• Water-resistant upper, zip sided for convenience.

• Coolmax – breathable, moisture wicking lining.

• TPU outsole resistant to 140°C. The outsole is also slip, oil, acid and organic fat resistant.

• SPS Max – XRD® Technology in the heel and forepart strike zones for increased impact protection.

• Removable Comfort Arch footbed with XRD® Extreme Impact Protection fore part insert provides superior comfort.

• Electrical hazard resistant.

• Steel toe cap, tested to resist a 200-joule impact.

The #243 is available in sizes 5-13 (half sizes 7.5-10.5).

Blundstone boots are available online and in stores via select retailers throughout Australia and are backed by a 30-day comfort and six-month manufacturing guarantee. For further information, visit www.blundstone.com.au/ work-boots/new-arrivals

Blundstone Release the #243 – A Boot for the Master and the Apprentice.

KOMATSU OPENS NEW CANBERRA DEPOT

Komatsu has opened a new depot facility servicing Canberra, the ACT and surrounding areas of NSW offering customers higher levels of service and support – including faster response times.

Canberra has previously been serviced by a team of three resident service technicians, a new, used and rental equipment sales representative, and a customer service sales representative. This team will be based out of the new Canberra depot, which is located at 9/8 Beaconsfield St, Fyshwick, ACT 2609.

The 200sq/m depot stocks a range of parts, components and consumables tailored to the profile of machines operating in the region, as well as additional tooling for specialist service jobs.

According to Michael Broadwood, Komatsu’s Wollongong Branch Manager, who also has responsibility for the Canberra depot, it will significantly reduce turnaround and delivery times for parts and service for Canberra and ACT customers.

“Previously parts or additional tooling had to be shipped from other branches, or our main warehouse facilities in Sydney. Now we can hold parts locally for Canberra customers,” he said.

In addition to storage for parts and tooling, the new depot includes office facilities, providing a central location for Komatsu’s local team.

Parts, consumables and components for local customers will be delivered direct to their premises or jobsites by Komatsu’s Canberra and ACT team members.

Komatsu customers in the region who will be serviced from the depot include small to mid-size civil and earthmoving customers, owner-operators and tradies, and local government and quarries, operating all sizes of equipment across the Komatsu range.

KOMATSU SIGNS TWO-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH NIB BLUES WOMEN’S TEAM

A partnership with the nib Blues starting with the inaugural Sky Super Rugby Aupiki women’s rugby competition next month will reinforce a drive by earthmoving machinery innovator Komatsu to achieve gender equality in its own workplace.

The Blues have announced a two-year collaboration with the global utility, construction, and mining equipment manufacturer to become an official partner of the nib Blues Women’s team beginning with the Sky Super Rugby Aupiki.

Komatsu employs more than 4000 people in Australasia and is at the forefront of its industry in actively pursuing a policy of redressing gender and cultural imbalance.

The company’s partnership will open opportunities for the nib Blues to access best-practice advice from throughout the world, while providing Komatsu with a ‘team of high achieving role models’ to inspire its Apprenticeship Development System.

Komatsu’s first year apprentice of the Year in 2021 was Auckland woman Megan Allen – at 35 not only the first female recipient, but also the first ‘mature age’ apprentice.

“All companies in our sector are currently battling for fresh talent and yet so many are still only drawing from 50 per cent of the population,” Komatsu chief executive Phil Pritchard said.

“We have achieved close to a 20 per cent female intake and once we get rolling, it will be easier to get to 30 per cent and even 50 per cent in time.”

Technical innovation is making it increasingly possible for the company’s heavy machinery to be driven and serviced, creating career opportunities for all genders.

Andrew Hore, CEO of the Blues said Komatsu’s commitment to diversity would help drive the development of women’s rugby.

“We were proud of hosting the historic first women’s Super Rugby game between the nib Blues and Chiefs in 2021 and pushing the case for the inaugural competition in 2022.

“Komatsu are equally passionate about growing female involvement in their industry and have a proven record of community support.

“There is direct relevance to the women’s competition and to our team.”

Phil Pritchard welcomed the collaboration between the Blues and Komatsu.

“The Blues women’s team is a powerhouse with amazing talent,” he said.

“Their drive and dedication to compete at the highest level is exactly the mindset we want to instil in our apprentices.”

Mr. Pritchard said the partnership would not only showcase the nib Blue’s remarkable

female rugby players while also shining light on the opportunities available in the utilities, construction and mining industry.

“Many are not aware of the diverse roles and career paths available working with evolving and

sustainable technologies,” he said.

“From apprentices to engineering, sales, and service technician roles, we want to make sure women are given greater opportunities to make their mark.”

BUILT FLIPSCREEN TOUGH!

With over 15 years of screening attachment manufacturing, Flipscreen Australia (FSA) has continued to develop and improve its designs by employing rigorous product improvement protocols and actively pursuing feedback from customers.

From the outset, FSA has incorporated the highest quality 350 grade steel plate in both the bucket and frame construction, which ensures durability and excellent wearresistant properties. In response to customers needing to operate in highly corrosive environments (salt and chemical contamination), FSA added Stainless Steel components to their buckets and offer a screener made almost entirely of this material. To further strengthen the buckets, in areas of high wear, QT 400 steel plating has been added and can be replaced to ensure longevity. In response to customer feedback, numerous models have also been fitted with a high density, super long wearing HDPE bucket liner, which reduces wear, vibration and noise. The innovative reversable cutting edge is also an excellent innovation incorporated on numerous buckets.

The drive mechanisms, both chain and direct hydraulic drive units, utilise robust and powerful hydraulic motors. These units are purposely rated beyond what would likely be needed to drive the mass associated with the material being screened. Having a high-powered motor ensures longevity and cooler hydraulic operations. Testament to the question of power is the impressive 48,500Nm of torque that their larger direct drive motors put out, which is more than 30 times that generated by the top pickup trucks on the market! In addition, these direct drive units, with their relatively few moving parts are simple and require little maintenance, while the chain driven models are fitted with hardened gears and bearings and top-quality high-grade chain.

At the point of most stress, the hitch and frame assemblies, all buckets have been reinforced, having used advanced software to determine those areas most affected by the stress associated with operations. Additionally, the innovative bolt-on hitch is milled from thick, high-grade steel and where

required, they are assembled using Grade 12 + bolts to ensure an incredibly strong bond.

FSA has worked with customers who have special needs with regards to durability. Head to FSA’s YouTube channel or website to view the EX145 Direct Drive screening bucket quickly and easily screen through some of the toughest material you can find, steel slag, a by-product of steel making. FSA’s collaboration with a steel mill resulted in the purpose-built EXX100 being developed, which is a super durable screener designed to endure the toughest screening environment imaginable.

Flipscreen will continue to evolve their products to meet or exceed the needs of their customers.

Visit www.flipscreen.net to get a sense of the full range of ‘Flipscreen Tough’ products.

What do we mean when we say “Built Flipscreen tough”?

QUICK SWITCH BY HYDRAULINK DELIVERS CUSTOMER BENEFITS PRIZED BY CARROLL’S PLANT AND HAULAGE

A SE Queensland plant hire company expanding through its formula of customer responsiveness and optimum machinery for each job demonstrated its philosophy in action recently when a major customer wanted its Volvo earthmover quickly fitted with a versatile power tilt hitch.

Carroll Plant and Haulage contacted Hydraulink Rocklea to see if the hydraulic hose and fitting company could engineer, within days, the hitch adaptation needed by a Carroll’s customer for a major project where the extra versatility would translate into extra capability – saving time and boosting productivity.

“We got the call the night before about the engineering needed to suit a particular job. We went on-site the next day to ensure the modified and more capable machinery could be delivered to the site the following Monday with everything tested and operating. It was an urgent job, but it had to be top quality always to satisfy Carroll’s insistence on the best reliability and safety standards,” said Hydraulink Rocklea Service Centre Manager Mr Jamie Walsh.

Hydraulink Rocklea is one of more than 400 Hydraulink service points throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific,

which pride themselves on going the extra step to help their customers optimise their machinery’s performance over multiple sites while always adhering to strict safety standards.

The experience they have gained through this can-do attitude and familiarity with the machinery of valued long-term clients such as Carroll’s, produced in this case, a power tilt hitch that enabled faster bucket and attachment changes to suit different tasks encountered by the machine.

Jamie Walsh says Hydraulink are pleased to progress with Carroll’s as they’ve become one of Brisbane’s leaders in quality and professional plant and labour hire, with broad-based services including:

• Efficiently supplying all aspects of plant hire, from delivery to refuelling

• Supplying experienced operators and ground staff

• Supporting clients to make sure they have the right machines and staff to complete their job successfully.

“They are a pleasure to work with because they insist on top standards of work in everything they do. The reward of this approach is that customers know they are getting the best machinery that will deliver the best result with optimum uptime,” said Mr Walsh .

“The benefit for us – because we share their philosophy and they value our wide product knowledge – is that we develop solid long-term relationships where we know all their diverse machinery needs and can get straight down to work when they need something special quickly, as they did on this occasion. It is a true quality relationship.”

Call Hydraulink Australia 1300 36 37 34, Hydraulink New Zealand 0800 80 66 66 or visit www.hydraulink.com.au

The Volvo conversion under way at the customer site.

PREMIUM CHOICE SAVES ON MAINTENANCE COSTS FOR QUEENSLAND RENTAL BUSINESS

Specialist equipment rental company Ace Rental prides itself on being at the forefront of grader technology, using the best graders, operated by the best people, which is why owner Mick Sheldon chooses to work with John Deere graders and RDO Equipment.

Mick started Ace Rental in late 2003, specialising in wet and dry hire for civil construction, local government and large infrastructure projects across South-East Queensland. Right from the beginning, he knew he wanted to be the leader in the region for equipment hire.

“We want to be the best, which means providing reliable equipment, backed by the support of our team and experienced operators. And with that we need to have quality machines in our fleet, so there is little downtime for both our operators and customers alike,” Mick says.

“We purchased our first John Deere grader in 2011, and still have it available for dry hire today. Currently, we have four John Deere graders in our fleet, and we recently purchased our first grader through RDO Equipment – a 670GP equipped with Trimble Earthworks.”

Mick says the standout on his new grader has been the Premium Circle feature, an industry-leading option which features a fully sealed bearing and pinion design, reducing maintenance costs and downtime, while also significantly boosting circle torque and speed.

The Premium Circle option replaces wear inserts with a sealed bearing that only requires a few minutes to grease every 500 hours. Additionally, the gearbox oil change intervals have been extended from 2000 to 4000 hours, while the pinion and circle teeth are completely sealed from dirt and debris to minimise wear.

“Usually, you need to spend a fair bit of money to adjust, set and then replace the circle on graders, but with Premium Circle it alleviates all the maintenance we would need to do, as it’s fully enclosed and can take on that wear and tear,” Mick says. “We might spend up to $50k extra on each grader over its lifetime maintaining the circle, but Premium Circle reduces that cost significantly for us – it’s a gamechanger.”

Along with the Premium Circle feature, the support and advice from RDO Equipment

helped make Mick’s purchase of his new 670GP Grader a success.

“RDO’s product knowledge throughout the whole process was great. They knew what features would benefit my business and kept me updated the whole way through to delivery. Their reps then helped train some of my operators on the machine and made it all an easy, straightforward process.”

To find out more about Premium Circle, and RDO Equipment’s range of Graders, head to www.rdoequipment.com.au/motor-graders/

ALLIED EARTHMOVERS ASSOCIATION

Over the past two years we have become accustomed to making plans, knowing that they will probably need to be changed. We plan an event, big or small, with the tacit postscript “all going well”. Mostly we all cope with the changes and the rearrangements, the introduced regulations and the general inconvenience to our lives. But then it happens. We lose everything we own. The floods in Lismore and the northern NSW areas alone saw thousands of people homeless overnight. These people did not expect this to happen to them. And it’s not just water inundation that has caused damage. Trees down and landslides have added to the mix.

So, what do you do? Emergency services, government agencies, volunteers, defence personnel, earthmoving machines, trucks, tradies and mates are all required to help with support and the clean-up.

The Allied Earthmovers Association Constitution states that one of the objectives of the Association is “to contribute back to the community by way of involvement in charitable activities and functions”. The Association members have been involved in many Charity Field Days, including activities such as constructing BMX bike tracks, repairing roads for community parks, levelling areas for campgrounds, horse riding areas for the

disabled, constructing bike tracks for special needs kids, and many more activities.

Members have been there to help fellow members during times of sickness or emergency situations. During the floods last month, the call went out to all members offering assistance to any member or anyone known to any member who required assistance

(we need to keep our members busy on a rainy day!).

Our members give their time and machines on Charity Field Days and we would like to put the call out to any deserving individual or group who is in need of earthmoving equipment, trucks or manpower in the Sydney basin. Please contact the Association office on (02) 4732 5233 if you would like to nominate someone or an organisation or if you would just like to find out more.

After the past couple of years, most of us now realise that nothing can be taken for granted and when the opportunity to participate in something good comes up, we should grab the chance. The opportunity to join our Association is always available, so why not grab the chance! I was asked the other day why someone should join our Association – my answer was “why not!” For a nominal yearly subscription fee, you will unlock the benefits of cheaper, more comprehensive insurance, work opportunities, compliance assistance, information and networking. Oh, and the opportunity to help others.

If you are an earthmoving owner operator and would like to join our fantastic Association, give us a call on (02) 4732 5233/ 0416 110 024 or email office@goldenbucket.com.au.

Ann Callaghan General Manager Golden Bucket

Allied Earthmovers Association

Drought, flood, pandemic, mouse plague, flood again, Japanese encephalitis and potential war all in two-and-a-bit years. The philosopher Marcus Aurelius wrote about 2000 years ago: “How ridiculous and how strange to be surprised at anything which happens in life.” And ain’t that the truth!

Kurrambee Charity Day.

Kurrambee Charity Day.

The SK135SR-7 perfectly demonstrates the commitment Kobelco has to designing and manufacturing the most capable excavators available, built with Japanese quality for legendary reliability.

As the #1 selling machine in the 14 tonne class, the SK135SR-7 combines unbeatable performance, fuel efficiency and reliability with a premium operator station and modern machine design.

And now Australia’s most popular short radius heavy excavator is available with a proven Isuzu Tier 3 engine, with no DPF and no AdBlue required, reducing operating costs and increasing convenience.

NEXT GENERATION

MINI EXCAVATORS HAVE ARRIVED.

Since the introduction of the Cat® Next Generation Mini Excavator range, owners and operators have been reaching new levels of comfort and performance – all thanks to vastly improved technology and design. Now the journey is complete with the arrival of the final models in the 1-10 tonne range: the Cat 304 and 305 CR. Both machines are packed with industry-leading next gen technology and features, including stick steer with cruise control, large colour monitor, Bluetooth capability, and the comfort of a sealed and pressurised air-con cab. To learn more, contact