Earthmoving Equipment Magazine December - January 2023

WELCOME

The team at EEM likes to end the year with a bang to celebrate Christmas and start it by letting our partners know the goodies we have in store for them in 2023!

Since the start of 2022, things have picked up across the earthmoving industry, and for the publication – including finding a new home with Prime Creative Media. Back in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, industrial events and client-based open demonstrations were put on hold indefinitely. While many of our partners have found great ways within their businesses to keep their customers happy, in many heavy machinery industries, as the saying goes – seeing is believing.

And so, eventually, normality or the new ‘normal’ took shape, with major events like DDT earlier this year, and open-day demonstrations by major dealers in the industry. The response has been unprecedented.

EEM was onsite for the Cat® Global Operator Challenge – Asia Pacific Finals and boy, not only was it an exciting trip to meet all the best operators from Japan, Indonesia, India, and the Philippines, there were also five of Australia’s finest on show. There, competitors got to operate Cat’s Next Gen Cat 320 with 2D GRADE technology, the Cat 950M Z and the Cat Next Gen 303CR. It was a hard fight between the best of the best, but the Japanese came out tops, and a couple of our Aussie lads came in second and third, and earned a spot at the Cat Global Operator Challenge being held in March 2023 at CON EXPO in Las Vegas! Well done to those guys, and what

EEM team enjoying themselves at the Cat® Global Operator Challenge – AP Finals in Japan.

a great opportunity to interact with the Cat team and learn about the partnerships it has with their customers.

Speaking of opportunities and partnerships, EEM also spoke to Rebecca Lincoln from Rokon and learned more about its commitment to delivery and it’s ‘client-first’ approach. These guys provide earthworks on various projects located in several different areas around Melbourne, and their high standards and commitment to sustainability and preserving the environment is shown in their partnership with BAEG.

Serving the big boys in the Tier 1 sector is no joke, as EEM found out from Sean Costello at DEA. Sean started off as a one-person, one-machine operation, but a few machines later, he realised with the game changing fast for his business back then, a reliable partner was needed when it got big. He talks about the value of trust proven and earned with CJD Equipment and his journey of support

and reliability with them. Read all about it in this issue.

Last, but not least, before we let you folks off to enjoy the magazine and holidays, we would like to remind you that we now have the ‘Excavators’ and ‘Dump Trucks/Site Dumpers’ segments. You will find all the best in the business featured there.

Syed Shah Managing Editor

Syed Shah, Managing Editor, EEM.

EEM on site and in action with Rokon and BA Equipment Group.

The EEM production and PCM team.

CONTRIBUTORS

Jamie Gray

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

Martin Kovacs

Martin Kovacs is a journalist with experience covering the business, technology and energy sectors. Over the past 10 years, Martin has covered a wide range of subjects across both print and digital media, broadly encompassing business and technology trends, focusing on issues of importance for industry. Martin takes a particular interest in digital technology developments and the manner in which industry continues to adapt and evolve amid the rollout of new technologies.

Mark O’Donoghue

Mark O’Donoghue is the CEO and founder of Finlease. Financing over $700mil p/a in equipment finance for private business owners in Civil and related industries. A family business with a nationwide network, Finlease has a 30-year track record of establishing long term relationships with clients, finding them the best finance solutions to support their business growth. The company’s goal is to make the finance process simpler for businesses so they can focus on what they’re good at.

Scott Lidster

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.

Detailed Excavations Australia’s

Ann Callaghan

Volvo EC250E.

Ann has been the Manager of Allied Earthmovers Association for the past 19 years bringing many years’ experience into the role. After gaining business qualifications and managing a retail shopping centre in Sydney CBD, Ann first started her career in earthmoving when she joined the long-established family business in Penrith, which specialised in Caterpillar graders and dozers. Working in a male-dominated industry, Ann brings a different aspect to the Association. She has met many people in the industry and knows what the owner operator needs, from the importance of paperwork to machine availability. It’s an industry she respects and is proud to be a part of.

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

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

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

ROKON AND BA EQUIPMENT GROUP

EEM uncovers how Rokon has grown over several decades to become one of Melbourne’s leading civil works contractors and the trusted partnerships that have contributed to this success.

From humble beginnings, Rokon has over the course of more than two decades of operations grown to become one of Melbourne’s leading civil works contractors.

During this time it has built an extensive portfolio of projects around Melbourne, and attributes its success to the long-standing and trusted partnerships it has formed with both its clients and the community.

Rebecca Lincoln, Rokon Plant Manager, told EEM that Rokon – which provides civil construction services for both minor and major projects – was founded in 1999 by Jim Thomas and his business partner, initially comprising a workforce of just 10.

“In 2014, Steve Traicevski joined Rokon as General Manager and is now fulfilling the Executive Director Commercial role,” Rebecca said. “Jim and Steve continued to grow the company after Jim’s partner departed in 2017. Under their leadership, the company has tripled in size in the last eight years.

“Today, as the preferred contractor for many of Victoria’s largest developers, Rokon is

Rokon’s fleet now includes the Hitachi ZX890 paired with the Epiroc HB 10000 hydraulic breaker, one of Melbourne's largest rock-breaking excavator combinations.

Rokon Founder, Jim Thomas and Executive Director Commercial, Steve Traicevski.

experienced in all types of civil projects, ranging from residential subdivisions, to medium density/retirement developments, wetlands developments, industrial subdivisions, remediation works, and infrastructure and structural works.”

Rebecca – who has a background in civil engineering design and over 15 years’ experience in the earthmoving industry, having pursued a career path that has seen her follow in her father’s footsteps – explained that the Rokon fleet now includes a broad range of equipment.

“Our fleet ranges from mini excavators to large scrapers dedicated to cut and fill for major bulk earthworks,” she said. “Our machines are all designed to deliver projects with excellent fuel economy, paired with state-of-the-art GPS technology and heavy-duty hydraulic breaking attachments.”

CONSTANTLY STRIVING TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS AND SERVICE DELIVERY

As one of the largest civil contractors in Victoria, Rokon’s core values include a commitment to delivery and a focus on positive client partnerships. Rebecca explained that Rokon’s client-first approach sees it constantly focused on seeking new ways to improve its operations, service delivery and in-house skills.

Rokon is committed to continuously growing and enhancing its equipment fleet.

A strong relationship with BA Equipment Group has meant access to the biggest and best range of hydraulic attachments.

“From minor works to major projects, we have the skills, the knowledge, the equipment and the team to see a project through, whether it’s a vast greenfield site, a complex brownfield site, or a tricky urban infill,” she said.

“Our standing as the preferred contractor for many of Victoria’s leading developers has been built on a strong history of service to our clients, an appetite for knowledge, the technology we invest in, the talent we employ, and a determination to exceed the expectations of those we partner with.”

Rokon is also notably committed to continuously growing and enhancing its equipment fleet, while working with its network of providers across the metropolitan area

The HB 10000 has a lower environmental impact, as the operator is able to perform more precise breakout.

means it can efficiently bring together equipment for a diverse range of projects.

Drawing on its significant resources, Rokon is currently busy working on various projects located in a number of different areas around Melbourne.

This includes undertaking earthworks, residential subdivision and roadworks at sites such as Windermere Estate in Mambourin for Risland Australia, and bulk earthworks, sewer, drainage, water, gas, electrical and communication service installation at Ooranya Estate in Beveridge for TCG Construction Services.

Rokon has also been providing earthworks, gas, water, electrical, sewer, roadworks,

concrete footpath and laneway services at Aurora Estate in Wollert for Lendlease, and earthworks, residential subdivision and roadworks at Burwood Brickworks in Burwood for Frasers Property Australia.

EPIROC

BIO CHISEL

PASTE DELIVERS ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

Rebecca told EEM that Rokon maintains a focus on sustainability and minimising its environmental impact, with it having recently begun integrating Epiroc’s Bio chisel paste across its workflows.

Approved by the European Commission for usage in environmentally sensitive applications, the Bio chisel paste formulation is based on special synthetic esters that are easily biodegradable, and it is also suitable for underwater applications.

It is specially made for hydraulic breakers, lubricating the wear bushings to avoid both wear and working tool breakage (reducing operation costs), and is capable of performing at a very high temperature, with an operating temperature range of -30°C up to 1100°C.

“Businesses must look at ways to reduce their environmental impact,” Rebecca observed. “If we are less dependent on natural resources, and have ways to deal with rising costs, we have a greater chance of long-term success.

“This is where products like Epiroc’s Bio chisel paste come into play. We are limiting our environmental impact by using renewable and recycled materials, reducing carbon emissions and implementing innovative, environmentally friendly practices.”

Rokon recently added an Epiroc HB 10000 hydraulic breaker to its fleet.

Rebecca told EEM that Rokon has also recently added an Epiroc HB 10000 hydraulic breaker to its fleet, with it having been deployed at the Melbourne Business Park industrial estate project in Truganina.

“We have increased our plant and equipment fleet to include the impressive Hitachi ZX890, paired with the Epiroc HB 10000 hydraulic breaker, one of Melbourne’s largest rockbreaking excavator combinations,” she said.

“The HB 10000 has the capability to provide a lower environmental impact, with the operator having the ability to perform more precise breakout, resulting in less fill product needed to go back into the ground when working on deep excavation and trenches.

“It has played a vital role in the development of a wetlands area for this project, and will be moving shortly to take on a major drainage project, where it will be excavating up to 70,000 cubic metres of fill and nearly 900m of drainage at 4 to 5m deep.”

BA EQUIPMENT GROUP GROWS NATIONWIDE PRESENCE WITH VICTORIA EXPANSION

Nathan Parziani, BAEG National Sales Manager, told EEM that BAEG’s acquisition of Breakthru Hammers earlier this year has seen it further strengthen its position in the Australian market, providing a presence in Victoria.

He said that this has created the largest hammer dealership in Australia, with BAEG focused on continuing to deliver its client base with the biggest and best range of hydraulic attachments at the best value, backed by exceptional customer service.

Nathan noted that BAEG has been servicing Rokon for a number of years, during which time they have formed a close working relationship, with BAEG providing Rokon with a broad range of products and services.

“We supply the entire Epiroc line-up of attachments, from breakers, to grapples, pulverisers, shears, combi cutters, compaction

plates, bucket crushers, bucket screeners and more,” he commented.

Rebecca said the knowledge and technical experience of BAEG has been a key component in delivering a superior service, describing it as having been “a welcome experience dealing with the BAEG team.”

“I’d like to mention Rob, Ben and Nathan in particular, who have been influential in the success of this business relationship,” she said.

“Also, after-sales service, including the HATCON monitoring system, is a valuable tool to ensure maintenance is effective and on time, and the ability to track utilisation and provide security with the location of the asset.

“These monitoring options are essential to a business to achieve longevity of the asset and parts, and also reduce servicing intervals to provide cost savings and improve productivity.”

As 2022 draws to a close, Nathan told EEM that it has been an extremely productive 12 months for BAEG, with this momentum poised to continue in the year ahead.

“Business in 2022 has been amazing, with exceptional growth and adding a Victorian branch along with many national roles,” he commented. “The 2023 outlook is exciting, with growth in many regions and departments forecast.”

Coming out of the pandemic and looking ahead to next year and beyond, Rebecca is similarly upbeat about what 2023 has in store, describing it as “an exciting time for Rokon.”

“Continued research into innovative opportunities with equipment, attachments, and efficient and environmentally responsible processes is a huge focus for the team,” she said.

“The future of renewable energy sources in construction is exciting, and continued efforts

at reducing our carbon footprint is a key factor in our future business development.”

EPIROC HB 10000 SPECS

Epiroc advises that its Heavy Breakers line is highly adapted for primary blast-free rock excavation and secondary rock breaking, along with primary demolition of massive reinforced concrete structures, with a robust design and high durability making the line suitable for the toughest jobs.

The HB 10000 weighs in at 10t (service weight), with it designed for use in conjunction with a carrier weight class of 85-140t, and (along with the rest of the Heavy Breakers line) features:

• ContiLube II – the automatic lubrication system optimises the lubrication procedure and reduces maintenance and standstills to a minimum

• Energy recovery – automatically utilises the piston recoil energy to reduce vibration levels and improve performance

• VibroSilenced Plus – non-metallic suspension of the percussion mechanism in the fully sealed box reduces noise and vibration levels

• DustProtector II – the optional active two-stage sealing system extends the service life of components and lowers grease consumption

• PowerAdapt – a built-in pressure cut-off valve prevents overloading

• AutoControl – the piston stroke length system automatically adjusts the output balance during operation, optimising performance

• Intelligent Protection System – the patented system automatically adjusts the start-up and shut-down behaviour during operation, combining easy positioning with maximum blank firing protection.

Rokon’s focus on sustainability has drawn the company to Epiroc’s Bio chisel paste.

The HB 10000 was deployed at the Melbourne Business Park industrial estate project in Truganina.

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

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

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

KOMATSU CONTINUES TO KICK GOALS WITH WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS

Global manufacturing and technological innovator, Komatsu Australia, has confirmed it will continue its sponsorship of the A-League Women’s football team Western Sydney Wanderers as part of its organisational focus on diversity and inclusion.

Western Sydney Wanderers are geographically placed in Sydney’s major construction corridor, making them an ideal match for Komatsu, which has its Australian head office located in Fairfield in Sydney’s west.

Sean Taylor, Managing Director and CEO of Komatsu Australia, said the company is excited

to enter the second year of its partnership with the team.

“We love what they stand for and see great synergies between our organisations,” he said. “Last year at our launch event, Komatsu staff were inspired by the Wanderers players and coaches at the club. There were some great stories that resonated about overcoming adversity as women in a male-dominated arena.

“There are strong links to some of the challenges women face in the workforce –specifically in our sector – and we really want

to bring these discussions to the forefront of our organisation.”

Komatsu has led the industry by putting diversity and inclusion on the agenda. The brand has won a range of awards in relation for its Say Again? program and industry leading training programs.

“Diversity presents a tremendous opportunity for our business. We are always looking for opportunities to highlight the benefits diversity can bring to our organisation and address the barriers that may hold us back,” Taylor said.

Komatsu has confirmed a second year sponsorship for the women’s Western Sydney Wanderers team.

Like Komatsu, the Western Sydney Wanderers have been firmly focused on raising the profile of women.

“Unfortunately, Covid disrupted some of our plans last year so we are looking to leverage those opportunities to inspire our team.”

Like Komatsu within construction and mining, the Western Sydney Wanderers have been firmly focused on diversity and raising the profile of women in their sport.

Earlier this year, the club appointed Tom Sermanni as their first Head of Women’s Football. This leads the way in the Women’s A-League as the first football club to make such an appointment. The role forms part of The Wanderers Women’s

Football Program, which hopes to lay the foundations for future generations of women participating in the sport.

Additionally, this year’s newly appointed Head Coach, Kat Smith became one of 20 female coaches globally to be accepted into the FIFA Coach Mentorship Program.

“The strategies that the Wanderers are implementing echo our business strategies here at Komatsu. We are both focused on creating an environment that offers equality and opportunities for women because we understand and know the

unique value they can bring our workforce and teams.”

WHO DO WE SING FOR?

Komatsu employees, customers, family and friends can get 20% off seasonal memberships as an added benefit of the corporate sponsorship. Ask your Komastu representative for the discount code if you would like to take advantage of this limited time offer.

The Western Sydney Wanderers A-League Women’s season officially kicks off 26 November, when the team takes on the Newcastle Jets.

Sean Taylor, Managing Director and CEO of Komatsu Australia.

THE POWERFUL EFFECT OF AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRIAL BUSINESSES WORKING TOGETHER

Killard Group has maintained a long and prosperous relationship with Pickles.

Pickles and Killard Group have worked together across a range of different sales over the course of the last 20 years. The relationship has been so long and prosperous that neither party can quite remember the details of how the partnership began, only that collaboration has paved the way forward. It is due to several successful long-term business relationships such as with Killard Group, that Pickles is able to maintain Australia’s leading marketplace for used assets, selling over $672 million in gross sales of industrial equipment alone in FY22.

COVID-19 proved disastrous for many civil construction companies at the turn of the decade and forced many businesses to pivot direction. Some accomplished being able to turn business around, while others were not able to move forward with much success. For the industrial businesses who weathered the storm, it became apparent that propping each other up and creating an industrial brotherhood was the only way to uphold the sector. Killard Group and Pickles have long known the value of these connections, with Managing Director, Jerry Daly, noting it as the only viable path to industry longevity.

“It’s all about relationships. We won’t survive without each other. It doesn’t matter who you deal with, you have to have respect for each other and prop each other up. It’s a big industry, but it’s always a close-knit one,” Daly said.

Daly is much respected among insiders of the Australian industrial sector. A salt-of-theearth man who began his career pipe laying, he launched Killard Group in 1999. The company has gone from strength to strength over the years as Daly capitalised on his industry knowledge and strong relationship management skills. Today, Killard is a frequent champion of private and government projects that revive water and infrastructure throughout Australia, predominantly along the east coast. Regional revival is a passion of Daly’s, who speaks proudly of the company’s commitment to upskill local workers for future management of infrastructure once fixed. This practice allows Killard to train rural workers with trade experience, who then have the ability to take over the maintenance of their local infrastructure. This method is strategic in the ongoing upkeep of rural spaces – areas that are not always easily accessible to city-based

Killard Group’s Managing Director discusses a 20-year relationship with Pickles, and how

to

achieve longevity in the rapidly growing civil construction sector.

The expanding infrastructure of Australia’s major cities frequently calls for Killard’s services.

PARTNER WITH PICKLES

As Australia’s leading asset remarketer, Pickles provides a simple way to sell, with a personalised service and exposure to a national network of buyers. With 18 dedicated industrial locations nationally and a sales team that cover every regional and metropolitan city in Australia, Pickles takes the hard work out of selling your asset while making sure assets realise their maximum value.

Mildura

Dalby

Moranbah

workers and sometimes lack the facilities to train local workers. To date, this resourceful move has resulted in over 150 locally employed tradespeople who are now in charge of maintaining their local infrastructure.

The expanding infrastructure of Australia’s major cities also frequently calls for Killard’s services. The boom in Sydney urban expansion alone will be enough to keep Killard busy well into the next decade, Daly said. The astonishing growth in cities has made a huge impact on civil construction businesses, who have witnessed a flood of requests for infrastructure building and repairs in the short period since COVID-19 restrictions eased.

This industry-wide boom impacts many businesses. For remarketing specialists like Pickles, the industry growth has created more opportunities to market and sell assets as Australia’s largest industrial marketplace. As many Australian businesses leveraged the value of their assets to free capital, a great deal of used assets were made available to Pickles to sell on behalf of various clients –assets which became invaluable resources in a time of slow international production, coinciding with huge growth demands.

By upholding a strong marketplace and maintaining solid partnerships within the sector, healthy industrial relationships played a critical role in creating and maintaining circularity to keep Australia in business.

Pickles continues to prioritise business relationships by providing expertise, flexibility and tailored solutions to partners. For a business like Killard Group, who have unique

asset needs, Pickles can meet their needs through offering the ability to purchase goods via multiple sales channels and providing access to a range of remarketing and valuations experts across Australia. Pickles has an excellent industry reputation for upholding partnerships thanks to this level of care, detail and service.

“Professional, transparent and trustworthy, Pickles always steers me in the right direction,” Daly said.

“It doesn’t matter who you deal with – or what department – Pickles always shows support to Killard in big and small actions. They will

host a BBQ to celebrate our success and show appreciation. Even for a big business, Pickles creates one-on-one familiarity.”

With business plans for both Killard and Pickles foreseeably expanding over the next decade, it is anticipated that the partnership will continue to grow. The future looks bright and the civil construction sector has never been stronger, thanks to businesses who know the value of working together to pave the way forward for a bigger and stronger Australia.

For more information on Pickles, head to pickles.com.au. For more on Killard Group, head to killard.com.au.

Through a successful relationship with Killard, Pickles can maintain Australia’s leading marketplace for used assets.

Killard champions private and government projects that revive water and infrastructure across Australia.

The

PERFORM UNDER PRESSURE

Your Cat ® hydraulic system is designed to withstand high pressures to meet the demands of your machine. Contamination and component damage can lead to reduced efficiency and unplanned downtime. That’s why a well-maintained hydraulic system is critical for achieving maximum performance and value for the life of your machine.

Every component in your hydraulic system is vital for the performance of your operation, and it all relies on the ability to perform under pressure.

“Genuine Cat parts are uniquely designed for enhanced performance, durability and seamless integration in a highly refined hydraulic system,” Caterpillar Hydraulic Component Application Specialist Fabrice Trolio said.

“That’s why it’s critical that you always use genuine Cat parts.”

There are three main component groups to consider: hoses and couplings, cylinders and rods, and pumps and motors.

CAT HOSES AND COUPLINGS

Designed for durability and corrosion resistance, genuine Cat hoses and couplings deliver industry-leading flexibility and can help increase machine reliability and safety. Cat hoses and couplings are tested together as a system to provide maximum performance in a wide range of applications.

Cat hoses and couplings deliver flexibility and help increase machine reliability and safety.

Protect your hydraulic system with genuine Cat® parts and achieve maximum performance throughout the life of the machine.

Cat hydraulic system can withstand high pressures to meet the demands of your machine.

CAT CYLINDERS AND RODS

Genuine Cat cylinders and rods help deliver the optimal balance of strength, surface finish and impact resistance. Cylinder seals are bore-skived and roller-burnished for superior sealing performance. The components work together to help ensure greater resistance to contaminants.

CAT PUMPS AND MOTORS

Genuine Cat pumps and motors are built to tight tolerances and are tested to match stringent Cat hydraulic system performance and endurance requirements. These

components are tuned to your machine’s unique controls and settings to help optimise performance and maximise equipment productivity.

DON’T WAIT FOR FAILURE

It’s so important to keep your eye on your hydraulic system efficiency. It can erode significantly before you notice a problem. That’s why it’s vital to help avoid failure by conducting proper maintenance – and relying on the support of your local Cat dealer. There are three key maintenance areas to consider: prevention, detection and inspection.

PREVENTION

• Conduct regular maintenance by changing and monitoring oil, performing daily inspections and looking for signs of wear and tear

• Learn the causes and effects of contamination

DETECTION

• Scheduled oil sampling (S•O•SSM) services are provided by your local Cat dealer to help detect hydraulic system issues

• Help improve your scheduling of downtime and budget management by predicting your machine’s repair needs

INSPECTION

• Check for leaks and don’t ignore excessive noise or vibration

• Inspect your machine for signs of damage, loose or missing hardware, and to help monitor hydraulic system cycle times and drift rates

Again, it’s always a good idea to listen to the advice of experts. On the benefits of repairing before failure, Trolio said, “It helps reduce costs for the customer. You’re able to plan downtime and avoid the high costs of repair after a failure has occurred. Dealers can provide a range of detection services to support the before-failure approach, such as S•O•S SM Services analysis.”

Hydraulics are the lifeblood of your business, and there’s almost no hydraulics issue that your Cat dealer hasn’t dealt with before. So make sure you make them your first port of call.

To find out more speak to your local Cat dealer, or visit cat.com/hydraulics-au

Cat pumps and motors are tested to match stringent the hydraulic system’s requirements.

Cat cylinders and rods keep a balance between strength, surface finish and impact resistance.

THE PERFECT FIT FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE

Pins may be low on the priority list, but they’re high on the productivity list. It’s no secret that taking care of your machine helps improve your bottom line. That’s why inspections, maintenance and proper replacement using genuine Cat® linkage pins and bearings are vital to your operation.

Wherever rotation occurs on your machine, it’s the job of genuine Cat linkage pins to support the movement. Working together as a system, Cat linkage pins and bearings are specifically designed to deliver the performance you expect.

Why is it so important to choose genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings?

Caterpillar engineers work to tight tolerances, matching the parts’ dimensions, materials, heat treatment, surface treatments and finish. Genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings fit your machine perfectly, wearing effectively with all neighbouring and dependent parts.

With so much riding on your linkage pins and bearings, it’s a good idea to listen to

expert advice. Clarine Koh, Aftermarket Services Consultant for Caterpillar, understands the importance of keeping your machines running as planned.

“Cat linkage pins and bearings are designed specifically to fit Cat machine dimensions to ensure precise bucket control, leaving room for sufficient lubrication,” Koh said.

“Pins and bearings that are too big or small can cause sloppy bucket movements. This undermines productivity and can cause excessive wear.”

As you would expect, Genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings are also quality tested to ensure more time between replacement. That means less downtime and more savings in the long run.

MAINTENANCE IS VITAL

Poor maintenance can result in unplanned downtime so it’s critical to include Genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings in your maintenance schedule. The benefits are clear: • Maintain smooth bucket movement and accuracy when working.

• Maintain ability to take on high load conditions.

• Prevent wear to bigger components.

• Help avoid costly downtime due to unplanned repairs.

Help keep your machine running and your work precise. Choose only genuine Cat ® linkage pins and bearings.

Order online at parts.cat.com or contact your local Cat dealer.

Genuine Cat® linkage pins and bearings aid rotation on your machine to deliver the performance that is vital to your operation.

Genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings fit your machine perfectly and wear effectively.

Genuine Cat linkage pins and bearings are quality tested to lengthen the time between replacement.

Introducing the new SK45SRX-7 and SK55SRX-7 mini excavators from Kobelco – delivering improved performance and class-leading next generation cabin design. With an extra spacious cabin, improved ergonomics and advanced technology, you’ll be able to make full use of the extra power and speed on offer, all day long. For uncompromising operator comfort and superior productivity, experience the new Kobelco SK45SRX-7 and SK55SRX-7 today –taking performance to the next level.

HOW INTEREST RATE INCREASES

IMPACT EQUIPMENT FINANCE

Finlease reports.

Where the five-year fixed home loan rates increased to around 6.5 per cent, it won’t be surprising that motor vehicle and equipment finance interest rates have also moved into the 7 per cent plus range.

As recently as one year ago, home loan rates, and equipment and motor vehicle finance rates were around 3 per cent or lower. So, what is the effect of these interest rate increases in real terms and how may this affect your business moving forward?

Unlike home loans where a doubling of the interest rate resulted in an increase of 45 per cent or 100 per cent in the monthly payment, the monthly payment effect on the equipment finance loan was much lower at around 8 per cent. This is simply due to the shorter term where the entire debt is fully paid off over five years.

In a world where businesses are seeing increased costs across the board in such areas as labour, materials, as well as the actual purchase cost of vehicles and machinery, debt (interest rates) is also one of these increasing costs.

To prepare, businesses today can:

• Access the Finlease calculator at finlease. com.au/equipment-finance-calculator to test payments on a range of interest rates

• Review your costs of doing business and adjust pricing accordingly.

How home loan rates compare to equipment finance loans.

• Utilise the expertise of a finance broker to seek out the most favourable equipment finance solutions.

HOW LONG CAN WE EXPECT THESE INCREASES BEFORE WE REACH THE PEAK?

The reality is that the harder you hit the brakes, the sooner you slow down the inflation, however if you hit the brakes too hard, you risk stalling the economy, which can lead to a recession.

The RBA will need to closely monitor this to get the balance right.

The best intel we can see at this stage, is around 12-18 months, or when inflation returns to the 2 to 3 per cent band required by the RBA to stabilise inflation to an acceptable level. Once this band is achieved, we can expect interest rates to remain at the level required.

However, if inflation drops below this desired band, we can reasonably expect to see some reduction in those interest rates to ensure Australia has a soft landing and avoids a recession.

Our advice is to also utilise the expertise of your finance partner or accountant. Businesses should also be planning their truck or vehicle purchases to take advantage of the government tax incentives that are ending June 30, 2023. This incentive is available for new and used (including private sales) for any company with a turnover of less than $50 million.

To find out more, please visit finlease.com.au

With so much press focusing on the significant increases in home loan rates and interest rates in general, it is timely to have a look at what this means for businesses,

Finlease evaluates how rising interest rates

are affecting Australian businesses.

C.R. KENNEDY INTRODUCES LEICA ICON SITE EXCAVATOR

Machine

control technology for compact excavators.

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

The iCON site excavator system, builds upon the powerful iCON Site platform, allows compact excavator operators to dig to designs easily and precisely, and is available for use both as a standalone option or as an add-on to an existing iCON site GNSS smart rover.

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

The Leica iCON site excavator system supports compact excavator with swing boom, tiltrotator and tilt bucket functions.

Measure an area and create a design using a field controller unit with a smart antenna.

With iCON Site Excavator used as an add-on, it integrates seamlessly with existing iCON site applications, paving the way for benefits from new workflows that combine measuring, stakeout, excavating and reporting.

LEICA ICON SITE EXCAVATOR FEATURES: OPTIMISING EARTHMOVING TASKS

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

Ultimately, this provides greater flexibility and underpins efficient and effective equipment and personnel deployment through enabling operators to optimise earthmoving tasks, with versatility of on machine and off machine options incorporated in a single software.

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

• Measure an area – and create a design (using a field controller unit with a smart antenna)

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

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

Other features include:

• Map-driven – selection and navigation

• Traffic-light – indication of work results

• Split-screen functionality – allows different viewing perspectives

The iCON site excavator can be used in conjunction with a range of iCON field controllers.

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

• Leica ConX – integration ensures seamless communication of design updates

The iCON site excavator can be used in conjunction with a range of iCON field controllers.

The iCON site excavator can be used in conjunction with a range of iCON field controllers, while the new GNSS receiver and communication device are designed specifically for compact machines, allowing greater flexibility to adjust to different sites and project requirements.

C.R. KENNEDY BACKS PRODUCT PORTFOLIO WITH NATIONWIDE SERVICES SUPPORT

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

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

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OFFERING MOBILE PLANT AND EQUIPMENT FOR HIRE

NTI has reported a transport, urban and civil infrastructure boom in Australia, with considerable activity in the mining and general construction sectors. With this massive pipeline of projects, businesses are making the most of their opportunities. But there’s a snag: mobile plant and equipment (MPE) is in short supply.

This environment of MPE shortages and increased demand is music to the plant hire industry’s ears. At the same time, companies with surplus MPE can generate revenue from assets that would otherwise be sitting idle.

Therefore, it’s essential to understand hire arrangements and insurance. If you get them wrong you may end up with a customer conflict, or worse, an uninsured financial loss. Obtaining the right expertise is essential.

Here we explore the key considerations when hiring out your MPE.

OBTAIN QUALITY LEGAL ADVICE

Hire agreements are central to any hire business and a critical risk management tool. Engage a lawyer experienced in preparing hire agreements for the mobile plant industry to draft an agreement tailored to you.

The one-off (and tax deductible) expense is negligible compared to the risk exposure from a contract that’s poorly worded or doesn’t cover the relevant risks and conditions.

“This is critical,” NTI’s National Strategic Underwriter – MPE Gary Woodhams said. “Don’t take shortcuts – if you don’t obtain good legal advice, you’re guaranteed very poor results when things go wrong.”

Crafting a good quality hire agreement will provide years of contract certainty and clarity of obligations for all parties.

Conversely, a poorly crafted hire agreement – or one without legal input – invites complications. You’ll most likely experience problems obtaining adequate insurance ,

conflicts around who is responsible for damage and insurance, accusations of unfair contract terms and delayed or declined insurance claims.

UNDERSTANDING BUSINESS OBJECTIVES AND HIRE PROFILE

Before drafting a hire agreement, your lawyer will need to understand some critical facts about your business to establish the hire profile and needs, including:

• Will you be offering wet or dry hire – or both?

• What’s your target market?

• Which items will you offer?

• What hire periods will you offer?

• Who holds risk in the equipment, how will it work, is it clear and fair?

CRAFTING THE HIRE AGREEMENT

Preparing your hire schedule with transparent terms and conditions is a critical step you must work through with your lawyer.

“There is so much to consider, and you need that legal expertise to craft a hire agreement that will serve you and your customers well into the future,” Woodhams said. “Critically, you want to deliver positive customer experiences. They’ll protect your reputation and boost your brand, leading to repeat business, referrals and a steady revenue stream.”

The goal is clarity of obligations to protect both owner and hirer.

DAMAGE WAIVERS

Damage waivers are not insurance policies; they are conditions or clauses in a hire agreement

that limit the hirer’s liability or responsibility for certain types of damage to the equipment. Damage outside the damage waiver’s scope remains the hirer’s responsibility.

If poorly constructed, damage waivers have the potential for disputes and other difficulties.

Communication and clarity on what the damage waiver does and does not cover is critical so the hirer can identify and make suitable arrangements to deal with any gaps, including opting out of the damage waiver and insuring themselves if they prefer.

Alternatively, you can comprehensively insure the equipment yourself while in the hirer’s possession and use. You can attach conditions, such as hirer responsible for an elevated (i.e. not extreme) level of excess to force their skin in the game, and other appropriate and reasonable terms to ensure accountability.

SPEAK TO YOUR INSURANCE BROKER Your hire agreement must clearly describe what insurance you’re providing and the risks the hirer must manage or cover. Woodhams’ recommendation is to work with your broker.

“Brokers are experts and your appointed risk advisors,” he said. “Be directed by their advice. The insurance side needs careful professional attention. If you are providing a damage waiver or full insurance, that is increased risk.

“Your broker’s input on how insurance arrangements comply with hire agreement requirements is invaluable. Your goal is to avoid uninsured losses for you or your customer. You want to be sure your hirers understand their liabilities and have a positive experience.”

It is essential to understand that your insurer is legally entitled to follow and deal with any insurance claims per the hire agreement terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations, including making recoveries (i.e. suing) directly off the hirer (i.e. your customer).

Hiring out your MPE can be a great way to generate revenue from all your assets. If you’re thinking of hiring out some of your MPE, it’s so important to obtain the right advice and insurance. Speak to your lawyer and insurance broker.

If you’d like to learn more about risk management and how to protect your business, contact your insurance broker or NTI today. Visit NTI’s Yellow Cover at www. yellowcover.com.au

BAUMA 2022 INNOVATION AWARD FINALIST FOR OPERATOR TRAINING

Well, I finally ticked off a bucket list item when I recently attended the largest trade exhibition in the world, Bauma 2022 in Munich, Germany.

Along with checking out the latest and greatest from just about every OEM on planet, I was keen to get amongst all things training when I arrived at Bauma’s Messe Munchen exhibition grounds.

BAUER GROUP

There were a few exhibitors who had some real neat simulators, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) solutions. But the company that caught my eye was the Bauer Group, a world renowned foundation contractor and builder of the finest foundation equipment.

Now I’m going to be honest, I’d never heard of Bauer and I know squat about the foundation sector. So you could imagine my surprise when I rounded the corner to their site to see a bunch of crazy looking foundation equipment! For a second, I thought of just bailing and heading off to find something in my lane (earthmoving). But I’m glad I walked inside and introduced myself to Brigitte Niemann, Bauer Training and Development Consultant, who graciously walked me through some of their training solutions.

Brigitte went on to tell me that Bauer has purpose-built facilities all around the globe, the closet to our neck of the woods being in Singapore, Malaysia. At these facilities you can tick off all your traditional delivered training requirements, like operator training for drill rigs, pile drivers and duty cycle for cranes, training for mechanics and service personnel.

And the real intriguing one for me, operator training for process technologies/mixing and separation technology, which drills into the art of soil mixing (pun intended)! Super important to know, as it improves the capability of the equipment and the quality of work carried out.

NEXT LEVEL OPERATOR TRAINING

As cool as all of Bauer’s traditional training methods are, it wasn’t until Brigitte shifted gears and started to tell me about their “Next Level Operator Training” that harnesses AR capabilities, that I started to get excited. This product came about during the pandemic, when travelling to a customer’s sites pretty much ceased. Products still needed to be supported and operators still needed training, right?

So, what did Bauer do? They got together with one their partners – Usaneers GmbH –and developed this super neat, innovative training solution.

There are two training options for the construction sector. The only prerequisites are a stable internet connection and the AR glasses, which will be shipped out to you prior to the training event, along with a specially designed hard hat that accommodates the VR glasses (safety first!) all in a tough-as-nails travel case.

OPTION ONE

The trainee wears the AR glasses, and the trainer is connected virtually from where in the world, providing live guidance in the application. In this way, the trainee is presented with a worksite under real conditions, but also receives the necessary support to manage the task as well as the required theory.

The visual field of the glasses is transmitted in a web application and enables the trainer to interact via video and audio from any

location. The versatile tools of the AR application make it possible to highlight objects in the working environment, display images, videos or technical documents in the visual field or also work together on the shared screen. The entire time, the trainee has their hands free to carry out the required activities.

OPTION TWO

The trainer wears the glasses and is on the equipment or on the site. The trainee follows the activity remotely. This option is particularly suited for groups, as multiple participants can follow the training from their own end device or together in the training centre.

So there we have it, a snapshot of how training can be completed differently and remotely. Needless to say, I’m a fan.

At Bauma 2022, Scott Lidster visited the Bauer Group’s exhibition for its insight on operator training.

The Bauer Group’s booth at Bauma 2022 in Munich.

Bauer’s hard hat and VR glasses, presented in a tough-as-nails travel case.

FINDING THE STORY

There’s a saying that content producers love to share, and that is “Everyone has a story.”

When you’re talking about individual human beings, that’s fairly easy to believe.

But what about when you’re talking about businesses? Some of them are just not that interesting, right? How do you make good content – great stories – about dry topics?

The answer is that you do it the same way you create any other story. You ask questions. You look for the point of interest. You find the things that will resonate with audiences. You talk about the people, not just the product. There are people on both sides of every business transaction and the audiences consuming your content are people, too. People are interesting!

One of the most fascinating content pieces I have ever written was about a business that makes yellow plastic tubes. The product, on the surface, doesn’t seem very exciting. When we went to visit the production site it was not much more than a shed on the outskirts of Perth.

What made it fascinating content was the story behind the business. The founder was a true entrepreneur who was dry and funny and very clever. His team was a mixed bag of interesting personalities. And his product was transforming an entire industry sector.

Everybody has a story and every business has a story. Give your audiences good content by finding those stories.

Here are five tips for creating inspiring content

you can use:

1. Align it with your business goals and position – Are you all about innovation? Focus on that. If you’re all about reliability, make that the heart of your stories.

2. Talk about people – People use products and services. Tell their stories to tell yours.

3. Make it warm – A good story is not a product brochure or a technical lecture.

4. Include great images.

5. Go in with an open mind – You know what the key messages are that you need to hit. Let the rest of the story reveal itself through deep conversations and real listening.

If you need help finding those good stories, get in touch with Hardman Communications and we will show you how via hello@hc.net.au

Hardman Communications gives earthmoving businesses a rundown on how “finding the story” can help when it comes to PR and marketing.

Everybody has a story and every business has a story, Hardman Communications says.

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YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

STM FOR MACHINERY

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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.

SOUTH QUEENSLAND LIME AND EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS AUSTRALIA

South Queensland Lime (SQL) has over the course of its two-plus decades of operations forged a strong reputation as an independent supplier of calcium carbonate (limestone) products for the agricultural, industrial and mining sectors.

The wholly Australian-owned company has in recent years significantly expanded the scope of its activities, making substantial investments in its facilities and in turn bringing new products to market.

As explained by SQL SSE Mine Manager Mick Williams, located in the rural Queensland town of Gore, the SQL site draws on a long history dating back over 100 years, with its operations having originally been linked to a Brisbanebased cement works.

SQL itself was founded in 2000, acquiring an additional lease over the area, with a change of ownership in 2020 underscoring the wholly Australian-owned company’s long-term outlook and paving the way for further expansion in the mining and manufacturing industries.

Williams – who draws on 25 years of experience in the mining industry, nine of which have been at SQL – told EEM that SQL’s hands-on approach distinguishes its service offering, with a firm emphasis on both reliability and regular communication with its client base.

“Limestone is a very versatile mineral and is used in many aspects of our daily lives, from paints and glass all the way through to animal feeds, supplements and soil conditioners that treat acids and help improve the soils our foods grow in,” Williams explained.

“We have a high-quality limestone resource, with reserves of more than 20 years. Our large

product sizing range spans from superfine through to large filter stone and flood rock, and every opportunity is on the table.”

QUALITY A KEY FOCUS ACROSS A WIDE PRODUCT RANGE

Backed by a strong focus on quality control, SQL produces a number of products for the mining industry, with its high-quality ground calcium carbonate stone dust

used for explosion prevention in underground coal mines, acid sulphate soil treatment and pH water treatment.

In addition to this, it produces lime products for glass manufacturing, industrial and functional fillers, and water and soil treatments, and provides the agricultural sector fertiliser elements, animal and poultry feeds, feedlot supplements and soil conditioning products.

“We supply products to livestock feed producers, agricultural resellers, feedlots, mining companies and the wider manufacturing industry across Queensland and interstate,” Williams said. “While not as large as some miners, we still move hundreds of thousands of materials annually.”

Williams noted that SQL has navigated a number of challenges in recent times, singling out severe weather conditions as being an unpredictable element that can have a significant effect on both production processes and market requirements.

“The main challenge we face would be weather and the extreme impacts it often has on our operations and our customers,” he told EEM.

“We’ve dealt with droughts and unprecedented animal feed demand in 2019, through to the challenges of managing Covid, and then right into the wettest year on

South Queensland Lime supplies high-quality limestone, from superfine to large filter stone and flood rock.

Earlier this year, SQL added a Lovol FL966H wheel loader to its fleet.

record in 2022. Rain presents a challenge as powdered limestone needs to be kept dry at all times during the production process.”

In line with this, Williams noted that SQL has taken significant steps in recent years towards enhancing its production processes, moisture-proofing its production line, bolstering its capability and consistency.

LOVOL FL966H WHEEL LOADER DELIVERS UNCOMPLICATED AND RELIABLE OPERATIONS

Earlier this year, SQL added a Lovol FL966H wheel loader to its fleet, with Williams explaining that the main reason the company opted for the FL966H, supplied by Toowoombabased earthmoving and transport operator Equipment Specialists Australia (ESA), was “its simple mechanical operation”.

“We wanted a loader that delivered reliable operation, and was simple to maintain and manage, including its simple hydraulics and drive system,” he said.

“Local support was also a big factor given our remote location, and with the simplicity of the unit it meant that the price was very competitive at the time compared to other brands of machinery.”

The FL966H has thus far been working mainly on SQL’s mobile screen plant, which Williams noted supports it “in improving our yield and volumes.”

“It also supports other areas of the site when needed,” Williams told EEM . “It has good lifting capabilities and steady footing. Reports back from the operators also complement its good vision from the drive position and its smooth operation.”

The 22 tonne (operational weight) FL966H has a 6 tonne rated load capacity and runs a 192kW Deutz Weichai engine with a

mechanical fuel pump (meaning no engine control unit), while limited electrically controlled functions eliminate problematic items.

It is equipped with a ZF powershift transmission (4F/3R with fast kick-down), Lovol axles and air-over-hydraulic disc brakes for superior stopping (a wet brake option is available), and additional features:

• A ROPs and FOPs-certified lined and sealed cab, lessening noise and vibration, with air-conditioning and an air-suspension seat

• A 4cbm GP bucket (with a choice of GP, rock, coal, grain and bulk buckets); 4.39m bucket lift height; boom lifting time of 5.7 seconds

• A pilot joystick with float position

• A Danfoss steering valve; hydraulic pressure of 3000 psi; fuel tank capacity of 180 litres; travel speed of 38km/h

• A one-piece fully opening side engine cover, enabling ample access (with no bolted covers to remove); patented composite reinforced pivot structure and bushings; radiator air flow is not obstructed by any items for industry-leading cooling

• Dimensions: 8.54m (length), 2.925m (width) and 3.4m (height).

EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS AUSTRALIA PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE SUPPORT

Williams said that ESA had delivered strong support across the sales process, assisting initially with gaining an understanding of the FL966H’s capabilities, which has in turn paved the way for its smooth integration into SQL’s operations.

“The before and after-sales service has been good, and in order to understand the machine in the early stages we were given a unit to test,” he said.

“They are easy to contact and parts are easily sourced. The relationship is only relatively new and there haven’t been any issues, and we expect this to continue based on what we have seen so far.”

This has helped SQL focus on its day-to-day operations, with Williams noting that business has been particularly busy over the last 12 months despite the challenges that many organisations are facing at present.

“Business has been on the rise for the last couple of years as agriculture and industry continue to learn the benefits of our products and the critical role they play in sustainable agriculture,” he said.

“Looking forward, I don’t think that’s going to change any time soon as the population grows and the world continues to focus on sustainability and improved soil health.”

The

FL966H

mainly supports SQL’s mobile screen plant to improve yield and volume.

Severe weather conditions have had a significant effect on production processes and market requirements.

CAT® GLOBAL OPERATOR CHALLENGE – ASIA PACIFIC FINALS

Life is all about making the most of opportunities. The five Australian finalists, who just competed in the Asia Pacific Finals of Global Operator Challenge, were treated to a life-changing week long experience in Tokyo where they went up against the best operators from Japan, Indonesia, India, and Philippines. When the dust settled, two Australians stood tall as the best operators in the Asia Pacific region. They qualified to compete in the Global Finals in March in Las Vegas at the 2023 CONEXPO.

Checking in at the Sydney International Airport, I knew there would be some great adventures in the week ahead. Not having been to Japan before, I knew it was going to be a bit of a culture shock. But what I wasn’t prepared for was the friendly, welcoming and helpful Japanese people that would go out of their way to help you – from the team at the Caterpillar D-Tech centre in Chichibu, to complete strangers that would regularly go out of their way to help when you inevitably got lost on the Japanese Rail System (JR). Or others who helped navigate an automated food ordering system.

Before I delve into the competition itself, let me just say I’ve been lucky enough to attend some significant events before in my time as a photo-journalist and digital creator. But the level of attention to detail that the Cat team went to in making this a world-class event was awe-inspiring. Several Australian competitors hadn’t been overseas before, so the bar has been set pretty high for them. But for

Nick Thompson, Masato Imai and Patrick Doheny receiving their awards at the Cat Global Operator Challenge.

The Finals centred on three challenges, and the competitors were scored based on time, safety and quality of work.

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM

As per the Australian state qualifying events, the Asia Pacific Finals revolved around three challenges, which the competitors were scored based on time, quality of work and safety. With the competition spread over two days and no leader board scores displayed, it was anyone’s guess right up to the presentation who had performed the best in the eyes of the judges. As it turned out, it was speed and time that the judges were most focused on. Time penalties were added to the competitor’s overall score for any indiscretions or mistakes made along the way.

The Australian team consisted of a great bunch of characters that did a fantastic job of representing their state and dealer. Jake Myers from WA shone as a standout performer. He has stepped into a different role at his work and hasn’t been operating machines for a year or so. I couldn’t help but imagine how well he would have gone had he been spending his days in a machine recently. Jake was awarded the prize for safety and performance,

work.

Jack Dival was the NSW finalist, who put in three impressive performances across the competition and missed out on making it to make the top three. Aiden Lee from QLD

Australian competitors Patrick Doheny (VIC) and Nick Thompson (SA), the adventure is set to continue in Las Vegas after placing first and second runner-up, respectively.

which truly showed the quality of his

rounded out the Australian five finalists, and if it weren’t for a couple of penalties on his first challenge on the first day, where a few nerves just got the better of him, he also would have been a real candidate for the top three.

The second challenge was the “Load & Go” Medium Wheel Loader Challenge.

Nick Thompson (SA) and Patrick Doheny (VIC) are off to Las Vegas Conexpo for the Global Finals.

THE CHALLENGES

The first challenge of the three was the “Big Dig” Excavator Challenge, where competitors operated a Next Gen Cat 320 with 2D GRADE technology and 0.8 m3 bucket. The objective was to dig a 6,000mm trench to a depth of 900mm with a 3m flat bottom and a 3m 30 per cent slope.

The second challenge was the “Load & Go” Medium Wheel Loader Challenge, where competitors operated a 950Mz with an m3 bucket. The objective was to load and carry material, achieving a target payload of 9 tonnes (9,000kg). The course was around 200m, and competitors needed to make two passes to reach the 9-tonne.

The final challenge was the Mini Excavator challenge, where competitors in the Cat Next Gen 303CR handled materials softly and precisely put them into specific features around the course. Elements included manoeuvring around the tight course without touching cones, dropping balls and raising flags in designated stands.

The first challenge of the three was the “Big Dig” Excavator Challenge.

Great support for the Australians and NSW’s Jack Divall in particular.

FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD

At the end of the competition, the Japanese competitor Masato Imai took out the event with a fantastic performance, with our two Australians, Patrick and Nick, coming in second and third.

Chatting with the two Aussie lads about their experience, Nick shared, “This whole experience from start to finish has been amazing, from the Japanese people and experience to the quality of the event, amazing food and opportunity to have my first overseas experience here in Japan. The fact that in just three or four months, I’ll be heading to Las Vegas with Pat as the Asia Pacific finalist is just mind-blowing.

“When I decided to enter the local CavPower/Cat competition in South Australia, I didn’t think for a minute that this amazing journey and experience was about to unfold. Coming to Japan alone was massive on its own, but to now have the Global Finals to compete in, in Las Vegas has blown my mind. The Caterpillar team deserve

The third and final challenge was the Mini Excavator challenge.

The Caterpillar D-Tech demonstration and proving grounds in Chichibu Japan.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

a huge pat on the back for the quality of this event.”

Partick shared, “In the loader challenge on the first day of competition, I didn’t feel like I performed particularly well, so when I had the excavator challenge late in the day on the last day of competition, I knew I had to really step things up. Luckily for me, it went extremely well, and I felt like I nailed that challenge.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

From the Global Operator Challenge event location in Chichibu to the streets of Harajuku and Shibuya, the Australian competitors were treated to an amazing Japanese experience – one I’m sure they won’t easily forget in a hurry. After having a chat with all the Aussie competitors

Everyone got to witness the Cat machinery showcase demonstration before getting down to business.

John Fallows VP of Asia-Pacific sales presenting the winners trophies.

before the announcements of the final results were made, it was clear that there was one consistent theme that shone through, and that was just how happy each of the competitors was that they grasped the opportunity with two hands to compete in the Cat Global Operator Challenge.

The Cat Global Operator Challenge, being held in March 2023 at CON EXPO in Las Vegas, will identify the world’s best operator from over nearly 40 countries, where more than 80 Cat dealers from around the world have held local, one-of-a-kind competitions.

We wish our two Australian Global finalists, Patrick and Nick, all the best in what will surely be yet another amazing adventure and opportunity with the Cat team.

The Australian team consisted of a great bunch of characters.

The Australian team did a fantastic job of representing their state and dealer.

The Cat Next Gen 303CR handled materials softly and precisely in the final Mini Excavator challenge.

Aiden Lee (QLD) had great fun.

DETAILED EXCAVATIONS AUSTRALIA (DEA) AND CJD EQUIPMENT

Detailed Excavations Australia (DEA) has been on the scene for 12 years now, after owner Sean Costello was offered an opportunity to work in the water game by one of his mates. Sean had been in the industry for a while, so when this first leg up came along, he grabbed it with both hands.

After initially planning on running a plant hire business as a one-person, one-machine operation, Sean Costello quickly realised that that approach just wasn’t going to cut it. Three years after he purchased his first machine, he bought his second, and two years after that he got his third. Seven years later, the business has grown exponentially with nearly 50 pieces of plant, including everything from 1 tonne up to 40 tonne.

Talking with Sean on site, he shared, “Today DEA has a plant hire division, a haulage division and a contracts division, where we do utilities. We’re ASP1 accredited, RMS accredited, and here we are today building our own second subdivision this year that we have built as PC, and this will be the second of many.”

BREAKING INTO TIER 1 WORK

In the last five or six years, DEA has also delved considerably into Tier 1 work. Completing major infrastructure work has really changed the game for DEA.

WORDS // IMAGES JAMIE GRAY

The Volvo EC250E was the most recent purchase in DEA’s fleet, featuring amazing technology.

Sean Costello with the Volvo EW60E from CJD Equipment.

“Successfully completing Tier 1 projects has given us credibility amongst a wide range of different clientele,” Sean shared. “We have worked on projects such as the Southwest Metro, Parramatta Light Rail, West Connex and Transport for NSW’s M6 Stage 1, just to name a few. We even worked at Garden Island through another contractor in Sydney CBD, which we enjoyed.”

Operating Sean’s 50-odd bits of plant is his much-valued team, which fluctuates between 30-40 members depending on various projects and project requirements.

“We generally float around 35 guys, and a lot of those guys have been with me for a very long time, and they are the backbone of DEA,” Sean said.

“I’m a guy that went out and got finance and bought a couple of machines – but none of it works or is successful without the team. At the end of the day, they are the guys that keep the clients happy and the machine burning, and if they’re not burning they’re not earning! It all comes down to them.”

PROBLEM SOLVING WITH CJD

Having a partner that is highly proactive in problem solving and getting machines back up and running as quickly as possible was of the utmost importance. It was on this proven

Sean attributes the Volvo ECR250E’s integrated tech as the catalyst for their success.

and earnt trust that Sean’s relationship with CJD has been built.

“Our operators love climbing into Volvo machines. From the new stuff to the old stuff, no one has ever complained about working in our Volvo gear, and if my guys are happy operating Volvo gear there’s no reason they will want to get out of it,” Sean shared.

“We started in our first Volvo in 2017 in an ECR235C and it had been nothing but faultless. Still, when it hit 6,000 hours it experienced a major failure. I needed the machine urgently for another job and I thought I would be up for a fortune to have the machine repaired, along with a long downtime period. The way CJD Equipment handled the repair, warranties and

Having a problem-solving partner that helped get their machines up and running again was vital to DEA.

turnaround time was exceptional. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. That one experience changed my whole perspective on CJD’s After Sales Support. After that, we now have seven Volvo Machines –a ECR235C, two EW60E, two ECR250E, a ECR145E and a EC300E.”

AMAZING TECH SUPPLIED FROM FACTORY Sean’s latest purchases were the two EC250Es, and Sean attributes its integrated tech as the main reason for their success. With whatever platform of 3D GPS, there is a machine suitable.

Sean was more than impressed with the tech support on offer. “When I first purchased my first GPS unit on the ECR145E, I was sceptical on what level of support was going to be available, but I was proved wrong. And after purchasing our third machine with the

The new Volvo machines were designed to be very user-friendly for the operators.

two new EC250Es, I have to say the support and the technology are both top shelf. The fact that the integrated payload On-Board Weighing (OBW) comes as standard and not an additional item is excellent.”

There’s no doubt that the tech in these new Volvo machines has been designed to be very user-friendly for the operators. It’s phenomenal what is offered to operators from 2D, 3D or simple laser. It’s pretty clear just how happy he and his operators are with the quality of the DEA Volvo fleet.

A BLOSSOMING RELATIONSHIP

Sean’s Regional Sales Manager from CJD Equipment for the Macarthur/South Coast region is Rebecca Roleski. She has only been in the role for three months, but has worked in the industry for seven years in various other roles.

In the last five or six years, DEA has delved considerably into Tier 1 work.

The Volvo EW250 in action.

The Volvo EW60 in action.

“I’ve been working with Sean and DEA since my first week at CJD in August this year, taking over our last RSM/Sales Manager in a continuing relationship between CJD and DEA. DEA has now bought two 25t machines with Dig Assist and a used 30t machine from me. They already have multiple Volvo machines, including a 14t and a 6t wheeled excavator,” Rebecca said.

“So far, from my time on the ground in the new role, a lot of my customers’ feedback highlights the significance of the technology that’s standard in our latest machines. I would certainly say that Dig Assist is a great function for many customers, especially doing the work that DEA does. Having introduced Dig Assist from the factory means that you get Volvo support throughout as well, which is super exciting. We are working with partners in the software game to ensure we have the best features and that our machines are providing

“Our operators love climbing into Volvo gear,” Sean shared.

“The way CJD Equipment handled the repair, warranties and turnaround time was exceptional,” Sean commented.

ultimate productivity for a longer life, while keeping those costs down over time.”

According to Rebecca, Volvo provides ultimate productivity, operator comfort and low fuel consumption. Solid and built to perform, the machines ensure there is less downtime. “DEA needs to be on-site and there to perform, and Volvo helps this get done. Our service also allows them to continue with their projects as needed.”

While there’s no doubt that Rebecca’s relationship with DEA is still blossoming as they come to understand each other and the more detailed elements of the relationship better, they both seem to be off to a great start.

“CJD is forever expanding and continuing to grow. They look at opportunities and take them with both hands,” Rebecca said.

“I am so happy that I joined such an amazing team, and I am looking forward to being a part of what is yet to come. But for everyone else, WATCH THIS SPACE. You will be just as excited.”

has gleaned that Dig Assist has been a valued function for many.

“After purchasing our third machine with the two new EC250Es, I think the support and the technology are both top shelf,” Sean said.

Customer feedback

CAT® 216B3 AND 226B3 SKID STEER LOADERS

There’s no better indication of a machine’s success than longevity, and when it comes to the Caterpillar B3 range of Skid Steer Loaders – the 216B3 and 226B3 – it’s hard to argue with a success story that spans over two decades in the earthmoving sector.

From recycling centres to commercial and civil operators, the B3 range has stood the test of time and continues to deliver.

For any business or operator in the earthmoving, building and construction game looking to boost performance and enhance

productivity, there’s an impressive list of standard features on the B3 series that sets it apart. Impressively, a lot of these features have been with the machine since its inception and come as standard inclusions on the 216B3 and 226B3.

A good example includes the Pilot Joystick Controls, which improve operator ergonomics and overall handling and precision of the Skid Steers. Having both hand and foot throttle controls enable the operator to set minimum revs by hand and use foot throttle

SKID STEERS/TRACK LOADERS

when required. With just a little tap of the foot throttle to get the machine really working hard. This clever combination of throttle control not only simplifies the operating process but also reduces fatigue over the course of long, days, weeks and months.

Another big tick for this system is the reduced noise which makes the 216B3 and 226B3 a great choice for machines that need to work in noise sensitive areas, like community areas such as playgrounds, schools and hospitals.

Lastly, the reduced fuel consumption of this dual throttle system is something that will add further value to business owners over time.

As operators of Skid steers will tell you, having a clear view to the bucket cutting edge provides

Whether residential, commercial, or civil sites across Australia, Cat® B3 Skid Steer Loaders have stood the test of time.

a confidence, enhanced efficiency level and safety that can’t be matched. Along with this enhanced bucket visibility, a large convex rear-view mirror and safety lift-arm brace contribute to the confidence of operators and the sense of safety that comes from working in a well-designed and safe working environment. The B3 range has clearly been designed to be a workhorse with safety and visibility at its core.

AIR CONDITIONED ENCLOSED CAB OPTION

For those looking to spec up their B3, Caterpillar offer plenty of options for both the 216 and 226 models. The most significant upgrade would be purchasing either with an air conditioned, enclosed cabin.

Early morning starts in the rain on winter days will be completely different with the heater on to keep the operator dry and comfortable. Summer conditions will equally keep operators happy and comfortable regardless of the Australian climate.

The 226B3 has a high-flow option for outfits with heavier duty requirements, and both the 216 and 226 come standard with continuous proportional flow, infinitely adjustable by the operator. This allows operators to dial in the performance of their machine to suit the exact requirements of each specific task.

The cab is spacious and well-designed for larger operators, who will enjoy leg room and comfortable seat. At the end of the day, all of these factors combine to a happier and more productive operator.

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One of the strengths of the B3 series is the vast range of Cat attachments, which open up significant value for the investment and tackle an extensive and varied range of tasks. Cat augers, trenchers, profilers, brooms and hammers are all available for the B3s, making the B3 a perfect choice for a wide range of earthmoving and construction specialists.

Time and again, we speak with operators who have opened up new and exciting opportunities by taking advantage of Caterpillar’s range of attachments. It’s this exact flexibility that has made the B3 range such a successful and popular choice over the last two decades. •

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SPECIALIST ROHAN MILLS

Earthmoving Equipment Magazine paid a visit to Cat® dealer, William Adams in Melbourne and met up with Caterpillar Product and Application Specialist, Rohan Mills to find out why the Cat range of Skid Steer attachments has been so successful for so long, and explore a few not-so-well-known highlights on these impressive workhorses.

“When you look at the number of features originally introduced into the B3 range some 22 years ago that still feature in the modern-day machines, it shows just how advanced these machines were and just how right Caterpillar got it,” said Mills. “But then look at features like the in-line pumps, which improve hydraulic efficiency while removing belt requirements. Combined with anti-stall hydraulics to manage

rimpull and power to the implement, you start to understand better why the B3 range is still so successful today.

“For operators and business owners moving material, digging holes or trenches, and even using hammers, you can’t go wrong regarding the true value of your investment,” the Cat expert explained. “The B3s were always aimed at outfits requiring strength, power, reliability and efficiency. But for those looking for that little bit extra hydraulic power, the 226B3 can come in the high-flow option, which takes hydraulic flow from 61 litres per minute to 104 litres per minute – making those heavier draw attachments even more productive onsite.”

THE WRAP UP

Watching the nimble 216B3 and 226B3 undertake various tasks with the four-in-one bucket – like material handling, back blading, and other activities – an appreciation quickly grows for just how much work even a single machine can get through. Let alone a fleet of these workhorses.

The impressive reach of the bucket and significant hydraulic performance, along with engine power and ground speed, make the B3s an extremely desirable investment for operators looking to bolster onsite productivity. Add in the potential for such varied attachments and flexibility, and it’s easy to see why B3s have received such impressive report cards for over 22 years.

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

SKID STEERS/TRACK LOADERS

TOYOTA SKID STEER RELIABILITY HELPS TO GROW LH EXCAVATIONS

A booming excavations business has turned to the legendary reliability and performance of Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA), as it establishes its own hire fleet of machines.

LH Excavations, based in Sydney, recently purchased a pair of Toyota Huski skid steer loaders as part of a business expansion that has seen it open an equipment hiring arm, LH Hire.

Since its inception seven years ago, LH Excavations has used equipment from a variety of manufacturers but has chosen to add TMHA to its roster to support the LH Hire business.

LH Excavations owner, Lee Heares said that he needed skid steers for the fleet business that could be depended on to work day in, day out – and previous experience using Toyota equipment meant he knew what to expect from the brand.

“I’ve hired their gear through other people before – they’re just good, simple, reliable machines, they’re very easy to use,” he said.

The exceptional reliability and mechanical simplicity of the Huski skid steers made them the perfect fit for the hire fleet, which will likely also be called upon to assist the excavation side of the business.

“I just like that it’s very simple,” Heares said. “A lot of the gear coming out now is all computerised, there’s too much to fail. I find these are just a simple, tough machine in my eyes and I like that. And they’re reliable. Every machine I’ve been in with the Huskis, they’re always going, they’ve never broken down.”

TMHA Area Sales Manager, Peter Bower added that the reliability and mechanical

simplicity of Toyota skid steers were common reasons for purchase, due to the critical importance of having functional workplace equipment.

“Simplicity is what a lot of people like about our products,” Bower said. “I would say the majority of our customers come to us for things like that. They are very effective and very reliable.”

LH has ordered two Huski skid steer loaders – a 3.1 tonne 5SDK8 and a smaller 1.1 tonne 4SDK4 unit perfect for smaller applications, like backyard DIY.

Heares said that LH Excavations saw the opportunity to expand its business after finding itself regularly lending out its equipment.

“The idea was pretty much borne from requests from others to use our gear. We could

see there was a demand in the market for a new offering,” he said.

“Having the excavation business and then having people asking to loan the gear out, we saw the opportunity to start a hire company, and it’s taken off pretty well.”

Heares would happily recommend TMHA to others in the industry, remarking that any company offering machines with the quality of his Toyota Huski units would get his blessing.

He also praised the easy and hassle-free relationship developed with TMHA, thanks to the help provided by Bower.

LH Excavations has stated its ambition to grow its business and add more units to its hire operation.

“We don’t want to be a small company, we want to strive to be someone bigger,” Heares said. “The doors aren’t shut for us in terms of growing, so it’s just the time now to keep the cash flow high and keep buying more machines.”

LH Excavations started seven years ago as a one-man operation, with Heares getting his start when a friend bought him a machine to excavate his house.

Slowly buying machines and taking on new workers, Heares and his partner Eleni Kamper expanded the business to the point where it now employs six staff in Sydney’s southern suburbs.

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

LH Excavations has turned to Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) to aid its continued expansion.

LH Excavations has invested in two Toyota Huski skid steer loaders for its new equipment hiring arm.

TMHA customers in need of functional workplace equipment value the reliability and mechanical simplicity of the skid steers.

EXCAVATORS

ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IS THE WAY OF THE FUTURE

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) have spent a lot of time with the design and development of their new compact electric machines. When some people think about electric-powered construction equipment, they tend to jump to the conclusion that it will be inferior to a diesel machine in some way — mainly power. But we can assure you, that’s not the case at all.

In fact, in addition to maintaining (or in some instances exceeding) the power of diesel models, electric construction equipment offers just as many advantages as the diesel counterparts. Check out the benefits of electric construction equipment.

ELECTRIC VS DIESEL

When it comes to power and performance, Volvo’s ECR25 electric excavator and L25 electric wheel loader are nearly identical to their diesel counterparts — almost line for line, every diesel model spec applies to the

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) delves into the benefits of using electric construction equipment on your site.

Volvo CE showcases how electric construction equipment shapes up, compared with diesel.

Volvo have created an electric-powered construction machine that is two times quieter.

electric models. The few exceptions are a slight increase in continuous motor power and a marginally higher operating weight for the ECR25 electric excavator. And for the L25 electric wheel loader, it too has a marginally higher operating weight and a higher static tipping load compared to the diesel model.

The maximum speed of the electric L25 wheel loader is set at 16kph. The good news is that for most applications, high speed isn’t required. It’s mainly necessary if you have an application where you need to drive from jobsite to jobsite without hauling the machine.

EXCAVATORS

machine is idle. With electric, as soon as the operator stops working (e.g. a landscaper waiting for pipe to be placed in a trench he’s just dug), the motors turn off and no operating hours are accumulated. So when you think about it, jobs over time that can rack up 10,000 hours on a diesel machine might only add 6,000 or 7,000 hours to a comparable electric machine. These saved hours can essentially lower operating costs, and in turn lower total cost of ownership.

HUMAN MACHINE INTERFACE

LESS NOISE AND VIBRATION

Reductions in noise and vibration are the result of the diesel engine and cooling fan no longer present. In Volvo’s pilot programs, they heard how less fatigued operators felt after several hours of work as they noticed the difference of the smooth, quiet operation of electric construction equipment.

Just how much quieter are the electric machines compared to their diesel counterparts? On the ECR25 electric excavator, for example, exterior noise levels were reduced from 93dB to 84dB. If that doesn’t seem like a lot, consider that a 10-decibel increase is perceived as twice as loud, and it represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity.

By reducing the noise by nine decibels, Volvo have created an electric-powered construction machine that is two times quieter.

LOWER OPERATING COSTS

With diesel construction equipment, operating time is defined by the engine runtime, and many of those hours are counted while the

All Volvo’s machines come well equipped with functions that allow you to customise settings tailored to your preferences, however Volvo’s electric equipment boasts an improved Human Machine Interface (HMI) and software. This allows more opportunities to adjust settings and customise the behaviour of the machine to an operator’s personal preferences. Adjustments can be thoroughly customised to how the machine performs — it can be more aggressive to more normal to a very sensitive, smooth ramp up of the hydraulics. HMI improvements are a reason why operators love the performance and feel of electric machines.

REDUCED MAINTENANCE COSTS

With electric, there’s no engine-related maintenance. Essentially, the only services required for a tech working on Volvo electric machines is grease, the hydraulic oil, and in the case of the L25, coolant for the water-cooled inverters and drivetrain.

The state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries and electric motors are totally maintenance-free. The life time of the battery-electric components should be equal to, or better than the diesel engine on a conventional machine.

While electric Volvo CE is not currently available in Australia, electric construction equipment is certainly the way of the future and there is no doubt there are benefits of this exciting technology.

Source: The Scoop, Volvo CE

Volvo CE’s new range of compact electric machines.

As soon as the operator stops working, the motors turn off and no operating hours are accumulated.

Almost every diesel model spec also applies to the electric models.

EXCAVATORS

YELLO EQUIPMENT’S NEW DELIVERY OF SANY LARGE EXCAVATORS

The exceptional advancement in technology has labelled the large excavator as a true ‘must-have’ piece of equipment for a magnitude construction sectors. Thanks to their large size and enormous capability, they are a considerable powerhouse that can tackle hefty manufacture demand.

YELLO Equipment large excavators exhibit unparalleled features that provide several benefits to construction sites, namely greater delivery of versatility, efficiency and power across all construction districts.

Andy Hopcroft, General Manager at YELLO Equipment, expressed the significance that excavators bring to work sites.

“With the significant shift in demand towards our larger fleet models, our customers have recently observed the many benefits of SANY machines. From the SY215C right through to our largest machine the SY500H, these models really pack a punch

when the entire package is considered,” he said.

“It isn’t entirely surprising, given the wide range of tasks these machines can complete with the right attachments. We are constantly delivering to customers from construction sites, road construction, demolition and waste who have all seen the versatility of

The SY500H is the largest machine within YELLO Equipment’s fleet, sitting at 52.2 tonnes.

YELLO Equipment’s large excavators deliver versatility, efficiency and power.

applications these machines offer. Combined with SANY’s industry best warranty, our new YELLO Finance offers and the YELLO Equipment service promise, we provide a compelling package worth considering!”

These multi-purpose machines are perfect for a range of trades and applications delivering across a broad range of disciplines.

As an established excavator sales distributor, YELLO Equipment has maintained the understanding of great customer support and service through the phenomenal excavators that are readily available to the market.

Here, YELLO Equipment showcases its range of large excavators and how they can benefit your work sites.

SANY SY305H – 31.5 TONNES

The SY305H is a powerhouse of a machine that offers a compact and easy-to-use machine for any operator. Measuring at just 3190mm in width, it provides an operating mass of 31.5 tonnes. With high technology and robust components, this machine can be strung through continuous work, without downtime. In construction, the operating life is more than 15000H under mining working conditions, allowing this machine to be wholly reliable always.

This excavator provides many features, they include:

• Optional easy tool changeovers are available

• Strong Isuzu engine that allows for incredible power

• Ergonomic comfortable seats and designed controls that maximise usage for the operator.

SANY SY365H – 36 TONNES

Being the preferred choice in infrastructure construction, the SY365H is a great companion to support your every construction need.

With a dual-pump and dual circuit control system, the engine can be fully utilised for its maximum power. Measuring 3190mm in

EXCAVATORS

transport width, this mighty excavator was clearly built for power, with an enormous digging depth of 7050mm and swing radius of 4495mm. The SY365 will easily become your partner of choice by increasing overall proactivity and safety to your construction sites each and every time!

With a magnitude of features, this unit has the option of practicing a combination of three reliable modes, including heavy-duty, standard and light.

The heavy-duty mode obliges in the efficient handling of large workloads, the standard mode for auto-adjusting speeds, and light mode for high efficiency and low fuel consumption. This allows for the maximisation of the excavator’s full use and lifecycle.

This excavator provides many features, such as:

• Extremely user friendly, has comfortable seats and ergonomically designed control that maximise usage for the operator

• Built with a safety design that meets the world standard, with world-class security and reliability standards

• Strong service life with great adaptability and lower maintenance costs.

SANY SY500H – 52.2 TONNES

The SY500H is the largest machine within YELLO Equipment’s fleet. This colossal machine

is no stranger to power, and thanks to its high-quality technology it is the perfect partner in any construction work. It is ultimately equipped for the harshest environments, with a stable undercarriage and great power components that allow this machine to be the most reliable contender in any job requirement. The SY500H delivers the perfect balance of power and precision, designed to complete the largest, most challenging tasks effortlessly and quickly.

This excavator provides many features, including:

• Large, high resolution coloured display, that provide great visibility in even the poorest conditions. The LED lights are further attached to maintain visual clarity at all times

• The driver’s cab is equipped to be spacious and comfortable for all operations

• The high-performance engine allows for low fuel consumptions and great choice of working modes according to your job site requirements.

The range of SANY excavators offered by YELLO Equipment have the ability to enhance your project and lift profits for you in the long run. The application of excavators is extensive and with education and a thorough understanding of their capabilities, you and your team will complete projects with ease.

General Manager Andy Hopcroft said there has been a significant shift in demand towards YELLO’s larger models.

EXCAVATORS

LIUGONG MINI EXCAVATORS REACH NEW HEIGHTS

LiuGong mini excavators, like all machines from the manufacturer’s broad equipment line-up, already punch above their weight in the Australian market. But the new mini excavator F series range is putting them in a new class.

The F-Series improves on the previous E-Series mini excavators, featuring awardwinning design and an improved operator environment that provides for higher levels of safety and comfort.

The LiuGong design team combined its extensive research and development with customer insights to produce a machine that could deliver big performance in a compact design.

Mini excavators can handle a plethora of tasks, from foundation work to landscaping, demolition jobs and construction projects, all providing challenges that can include working in confined spaces and with limited visibility.

The development of the LiuGong’s F Series Mini Excavator range focused on delivering a compact design that was easy to transport, powerful and comfortable when at work, simple to use, service and maintain, and which is cost-effective to run.

The option of auto idling is an intelligent feature that decreases and increases engine speed as required, ensuring high levels of fuel efficiency, and high flow auxiliary lines are standard.

An additional counterweight can allow the machines to be fitted with additional work tools to suit multiple job sites, while a range of buckets are available to accommodate various tasks.

The proportional load sensing hydraulics deliver precise and smooth operation for optimal grading performance and control. An electro-proportional auxiliary line provides

easy and accurate control of attachments, while new dozer blade geometry allows the bucket and blade to work in harmony together to remove materials.

The LiuGong F series range is powered by a fuel efficient, low noise and low emission Stage V Yanmar engines and Kawaski pumps. With hydraulics to match for greater efficiency, operators can expect to reduce fuel consumption significantly compared with the industry average.

The LiuGong 9018, a 1.8T mini-excavator, boasts adjustable tracks and class-leading cab size for operator comfort.

High visibility cabs have ensured an excellent outlook with ROPS and TOPS protection, while ergonomic design has assisted the comfort levels.

Both the 9027 (2.7T) and the 9035 (3.5T) are zero- swing models and operators of the 9035 can expect a comfortable air-conditioned cabin.

Jason Lyall, Business Development Manager for CDA, distributors of LiuGong equipment, said the LiuGong brand was enjoying a spike in demand as more operators were getting to know the equipment, and this would be further propelled by the mini excavator range.

“There continues to be a great response to the brand and product feedback has been really solid,’’ Lyall said.

“When you consider the comparative total cost of ownership and low maintenance associated with LiuGong machines, the decision is an easy one.”

He said value for money is a real strength for the LiuGong machines.

“They are easy to use, and customers recognise they are buying a quality machine that does the job at a very affordable price,” Lyall said.

The LiuGong mini excavator range is in now stock and available across the national dealership network, and operators can put them to work at sites with the confidence of access to strong back-up support and parts. Those interested can find their nearest LiuGong dealership by heading to www.liugongaustralia.com.au

LiuGong’s new range of mini excavators have hit the Australian market

to deliver big performance in a

compact design.

LiuGong’s F-Series mini excavators are drawing attention from operators across Australia.

The machines feature an award-winning design and an improved operator environment for better safety and comfort.

Auto idling is an intelligent feature that decreases and increases engine speed as required.

EXCAVATORS

KOBELCO MINI EXCAVATOR HELPS KICK-START BALI CONCRETE BUSINESS

When Josh Bali started Bali Concrete, his first port of call to find new machinery was STM Trucks & Machinery (STM), where he discovered Kobelco.

From a young age, Josh Bali entered the workforce and worked several jobs until he finally found his calling. Starting out at a chemist, followed by a stint at tree lopping, he eventually found himself working at a metal fabrication factory. Finally, luck had it that one of Josh’s mates told him that his dad was looking for workers in his concreting business. He took him up on the offer and hasn’t looked back since.

“I spent about 4 to 5 years doing concreting work at this company and learning the trade, but I eventually got to a point where I realised I was working hard for someone else, when I could be doing it for myself,” Josh explained.

“So, just over a year ago I made the decision, then and there, to go out on my own and started Bali Concrete. I went out and got myself a truck, and then bought my first machine, a 1.7 tonne Kobelco excavator.”

MEET KOBELCO

When looking for the right fit for his new company, Josh couldn’t look past the SK17SR, taking a leap of faith on a brand that he hadn’t had any experience with.

“I pretty much compared a few different manufacturers, but the Kobelco just seemed to be the best machine on the market,” he said. “Coincidentally, the sales rep for our local Kobelco dealer, STM Trucks & Machinery (STM), lived down the street from me. I knew Christian would look after me, so I thought I’d take the chance.”

The risk paid off for Josh, realising the 1.7 tonne machine was the perfect fit for his new business.

“It was my first time using a Kobelco, and it’s been a success all round,” he said. “We do all types of residential concreting around New South Wales, a lot of driveway dig outs

and that sort of thing. Being a smaller machine, it’s been great for granny flats because of the tight access, while still delivering plenty of power to get the job done. I can move about 50 to 60 tonnes worth of dirt in one day and get about a day and a half out of the 19-litre tank, while with other brands you’d be lucky to get a day.”

SMOOTH OPERATOR

In Josh’s books, the best thing about this Kobelco mini excavator has to be the smooth operability.

“The hydraulics on this machine are just really smooth, I can sit in it all day and have no complaints. Compared to other brands where it’s really jolty and doesn’t deliver on power, it makes you appreciate the comfort of the Kobelco,” Josh said.

“I’ve put almost 300 hours on it and have had no issues. I’ve had my servicing with STM and they have been great, even the sales process was impressive. The sales team were willing to help with anything I needed, like on attachment recommendations, and they got back to me straight away. I always look for quality customer service when dealing

For Josh, the best thing about the Kobelco mini excavator is its smooth operability.

with companies, because a lot seem to forget about you once you buy, but I haven’t found that to be the case with STM.

“For anyone looking for a new mini excavator or is just starting out in the game, I’d recommend giving Kobelco a go, you won’t be disappointed.”

To learn more about Kobelco excavators, please visit www.kobelco.com.au.

Josh Bali with the Kobelco SK17SR Mini Excavator.

The 1.7 tonne machine was the perfect fit for the new business.

DIECI VEHICLES MEET THE NEEDS OF ANY CONSTRUCTION SITE

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

TELEHANDLERS

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 are able to 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.

TRUCK MIXERS AND DUMPERS

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

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

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

MAINTENANCE, COMFORT, SAFETY

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

The Runner can lift up to 4,000kg at 12.4m.

Access to the engine is made easy with the optimal arrangement of components that make maintenance quick and convenient. Radiators are straight forward and fast to clean, and

air filters can be reached without any tools, The interventions required for the change of hydraulic oil are also minimal, as they are only necessary every 2,000 hours of operation.

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

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

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

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

The Pegasus telehandlers feature either continuous or non-continuous rotation.

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

NIMAC PACIFIC SET TO LAUNCH D’AVINO 3V70 MULTIVIEW DUMPER IN THE LOCAL MARKET

Nimac Pacific is set to further expand its dump truck line-up, with the construction, agriculture and mining equipment specialist confirming it will launch the 3V70 Multiview Dumper by D’Avino in the local market. The recently unveiled 3V70 sports all the hallmarks of the D’Avino dump truck range, being built to last and primed to tackle demanding applications.

Developed using state-of-the-art manufacturing and quality control processes, the 3V70 will take its place among Nimac’s evolving portfolio of machines, decked out to thrive in local conditions, supporting efficient and effective operations across a broad scope of projects.

As Nimac notes, D’Avino brings extensive know-how to the production of machines focused on satisfying customer needs, with the Italian manufacturer drawing on a rich history in the industry spanning over seven decades.

D’AVINO 3V70 MULTIVIEW DUMPER FEATURES

The trilateral rear-dumping 3V70 weighs in at 4,200 kg, and sports an articulated and oscillating frame, along with a rotating driving seat, with it designed to deliver operators wide visibility during transfer and other applications.

It runs a 55 kW Perkins 404J-E22TA EU Stage V/Tier 4F engine, and has a maximum loading capacity of 7,000 kg.

The 3V70 features:

• Transmission – 4WD, two forward/reverse gears (hydraulic); hydrostatic transmission, with a variable displacement pump and variable displacement motor, with electro-hydraulic control for slow, fast and reverse gear selection; a maximum speed of 30 km/h and a maximum full load gradeability of 35 per cent.

• Dump body – a reinforced Hardox highstrength HB 500 wear-resistant steel dump body with tilting (equipped with a doubleacting hydraulic cylinder), with a 2,890 l struck capacity and 3,355 l SAE heaped capacity.

• Driving platform – the closed cabin features a reversible anatomical seat with air suspension and seat belt, a thermoformed ABS steering column with an electronic display

and easy-to-read control instrumentation, air-conditioning, front and rear cameras, and front and rear electric wipers.

In addition to this, the 3V70 is equipped with load-bearing, rigid axles, a planetary gearbox, hydrostatic steering fed by an independent pump, and multi-disc in oil bath hydraulic service and parking brakes.

NIMAC

PACIFIC

BACKS QUALITY MACHINERY SOLUTIONS WITH COMPREHENSIVE EXPERIENCE

Nimac is focused on bringing quality machines designed and produced in Europe to the local market, with its broader range of solutions having proven popular among business owners and machine operators.

Drawing on more than 15 years’ experience in the construction, agriculture and mining industries, Nimac offers high-tech solutions for rough terrain applications, with a focus on performance, safety and reliability.

Nimac provides a range of products and services for businesses in the broader Pacific region, with its local dealer network including STM Trucks & Machinery and Gato Sales and Repairs in NSW, Melbourne Tractors in Victoria, Brisvegas Machinery in Queensland and DLM Machinery in Tasmania.

For more information, please get in contact with Nimac at: info@nimacpacific.com.au.

The 3V70 can thrive in local conditions, and support operations efficiently across a range of projects.

The 3V70 sports demanding applications that are built to last.

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

ACCIONA AND LIEBHERR PARTNER TO BUILD FOR THE FUTURE

Infrastructure and construction services companies ACCIONA and CPB Contractors have been extremely active in the Australian market recently, participating in key areas of the ongoing Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) works. This includes bringing their expertise to the major earthworks project and construction of the WSI runway which they are delivering in a joint venture (JV).

The WSI is the biggest civil earthmoving project in Australia, using over 300 machines at the peak of production.

ACCIONA’s Western Sydney Airport Bulk Earthworks Plant Manager Gary Steen points to the sheer scale of the earthworks, which will move over 25 million m³ of material.

“By pretty much any measure, it’s a massive undertaking,” said Gary, who draws on four decades of experience in the industry and was involved with the tender for the earthworks project.

“I’ve been on the job since day one, setting up the workshop, recruiting the plant team and managing the fleet,” he told EEM. “I’ve loved machinery since I was a boy, so for me this project has been an incredible experience: definitely the highlight of my career, and there will never be another job like it.

“It’s the biggest civil earthmoving project in Australia, with over 300 machines on the job at the peak of production, including the biggest fleet of scrapers ever assembled on one job at 78 units, along with a 25-member plant team working out of the onsite workshops to ensure excellent availability of the gear.”

Liebherr PR 756 G8 dozers have been deployed across the project.

Scheduled to open in late 2026, WSI will cater for up to 10 million domestic and international passengers annually and is poised to become one of the biggest gateways to Australia.

MASSIVE PROJECT SCALE PRESENTS UNIQUE CHALLENGES

Gary pointed to the range of challenges associated with the scale of the major earthworks, which has required a strategic and highly-coordinated approach to meet deadlines. Environmental protection has also been a key component of the project.

“Having such a massive plant fleet spread over such a large area always has its challenges,” he said. “But with careful planning and a great support team, we’ve achieved excellent plant availability and reached our handover targets as planned.

“The wet weather has also been a major challenge, with the wettest period on record for the area having occurred at the peak of production on the job.”

The ACCIONA-CPB Contractors joint venture was recognised for its work earlier this year with the International Erosion Control Association’s Environmental Excellence Award. For Gary, the award stands as an endorsement of “not just following but leading the market through walking the walk.”

The ACCIONA-CPB Contractors joint venture navigated multiple environmental challenges associated with the earthworks, revolving largely around the project scale and the area and volume of material to be moved. The JV developed innovative tools and processes to manage the risks, including monthly sediment basin catchment mapping and volume reporting by aerial surveys.

This enabled monitoring of the effectiveness of controls as earthworks progressed at

approximately 1 million cubic metres of dirt every month, while the project transitioned from 16 catchments to four.

have been a critical part of its operations and “are among the most utilised plant items in our fleet.”

LIEBHERR PR 756 G8

DOZERS DELIVER ALL-ROUND PERFORMANCE BENEFITS

Of course, in undertaking a project of this scale, efficient and reliable equipment capable of getting the job done day in and day out is an absolute necessity, so the joint venture has been harnessing the capabilities of Liebherr earthmoving machines. Liebherr not only has a global presence like ACCIONA does, but both companies share histories as family businesses and a focus on leadership in innovation and sustainability. Saving the planet has proven to be a foundation for the relationship between the two companies.

Gary told EEM that the Liebherr PR 756 G8 dozers deployed across the project

“The Liebherr product has a proven design with excellent back-up and support,” he commented. “The PR 756 G8 dozers are the perfect all-round machine that can be used to perform a number of different duties.

Fitted with GPS and a multi-shank ripper, they’re extremely versatile.

“The performance to date has been great. We have been using the PR 756 G8 dozers for a variety of duties, including maintaining stockpiles, batter work, general site duties and also working with our twin-powered scraper fleet.”

Gary highlighted fuel economy, extended service intervals and cleaner exhaust emissions among key machine features. “Operators

Liebherr describes its new Generation 8 crawler dozers as “the perfect answer to the demands of the modern construction site.”

ACCIONA is bringing its earthworks expertise to help construct the Western Sydney International Airport.

have observed that the machines are very userfriendly and extremely comfortable to operate.

“Not only is the dozer quiet, it’s also very smooth and has excellent pushing power. The various systems on the machine can be set to accommodate different work duties and makes the machine easy to adapt to the work required, while it is also very stable on batters,” he said.

“Ultimately, our customers see that we are using the latest technology on the market, which provides reliability and productivity, along with lower fuel burn and reduced emissions, including noise emissions, which is good for overall business as well as for the community and environment.”

ACCIONA’s Plant EGM, Hamish MacCormick said that ACCIONA had invested “circa $20 million with Liebherr already, on dozers, loaders and piling rigs because Liebherr equipment simply reduces our Co2 emissions without compromising productivity, in fact improving it in most cases. We will continue our investment with Liebherr in a fully-electric Foundation fleet including piling rigs, cranes and excavators.”

LIEBHERR PR 756 G8 DOZER FEATURES

The Liebherr PR 756 G8 dozer weighs in at 35.4 to 43t, running a 260 kW Liebherr D 946 A7 Tier 4 Final engine, and decked out with a blade capacity of 8.92-11.8 m³.

Liebherr describes its new Generation 8 crawler dozers as “the perfect answer to the demands of the modern construction site.”

Application preparation is easy and effective, with light and heavy applications supported by intelligence assistance systems, providing operators enhanced control over machine operations, and service logistics. There’s an ideal combination of speed and traction, so an operator can choose the highest possible speed for the operating conditions, and directly call up full thrust when required via the joystick, while the Liebherr hydrostatic drive automatically delivers correct traction when ripping.

Liebherr’s Operator Assistance Systems include three levels of driver support: Free Grade, for active blade stabilisation during fine grading; Definition Grade, for automatic blade positioning when creating simple 2D surfaces, and 3D Grade from Topcon as optional GNSS machine control for modelling complex terrain forms (factory-installed kits are also available, allowing for retrofitting of machine control systems in the field).

And that quietness that Gary referred to comes from Liebherr’s Silent Design, with hydro-elastic bearing mounts giving effective sound absorption and the lowest levels of acoustic noise, enhanced by the combination of the low speed of the Liebherr diesel engine, the demand-controlled hydrostatic fan and the standard drive.

The spacious cabin features an adjustable seat and joysticks, with a seat contact switch that detects the operator’s presence, while a 9-inch touch display provides access to all settings for the drive and operating hydraulics. The advanced lighting layout illuminates the outermost corners of the machine. These are all features that ensure the operator’s comfort with a strong safety focus.

Other innovative features include the Liebherr EVO Generation, high-torque engine with increased nominal power; a highly automated, stepless drive and electronically controlled operating hydraulics; an advanced machine interface and automated task movements;

integrated

For more information, visit www.liebherr.com.au or call (02) 9852 1800.

3D technology via Sitelink 3D, along with the classic 2D surface modelling.

ACCONIA’s Western Sydney Airport Bulk Earthworks Plant Manager, Gary Steen and Liebherr’s National Major Accounts Manager for Earthmoving & Material Handling Division, Scott McClement.

Power, precision and speed

Generation 8 dozers keep you “in the fast lane”: The hydrostatic drive always delivers the optimum pushing speed. Three levels of Operator Assistance Systems guarantee maximum grading quality and efficiency.

LET’S MEET WHERE QUALITY IS MADE

John Deere has a solid reputation globally for quality, reliability, durability and powerful performance. The company’s construction and forestry products are designed and manufactured with state-of-the-art tools and techniques by a quality-conscious workforce in purpose-built John Deere manufacturing plants around the globe. And it all starts with its customers.

Through John Deere Customer Advocate Groups (CAGs), engineers and developers engage closely with customers and respond to their feedback at key points in the design of John Deere machines, so that features and specifications deliver exactly what is needed.

Customers also help evaluate John Deere designs by putting equipment through its paces in a series of in-dirt evaluations. By understanding real-world applications, directly from customers, John Deere engineers incorporate the information and insights to create a differential edge on John Deere products. This critical input is the driver behind every comfort, function, and performance feature the company produces.

John Deere Senior Vice President of Engineering, Manufacturing and Supply Management for the company’s Construction and Forestry division, Brian Rauch said this customer-focused design approach is prioritised and implemented globally, across all products.

“We study customers in our intended markets, apply their feedback to our designs, and define extensive product verification duty cycles based on the requirements they share with us,” he said.

“All Deere engineers, regardless of product responsibility or location of design centre, utilise the same approach, collaborating extensively to ensure we are delivering products worthy of the Deere name.”

With world-class factories across the globe, each product is built to strict John Deere engineering standards and tested at all stages in the manufacturing process. Parts and components are made with extreme precision, so that all assembled modules and finished products meet the strict engineering standards synonymous with the John Deere name.

“The engineering team located in Dubuque, Iowa, took four years to complete the design of the new Series-II hydraulic excavators,” Excavator Engineering Director Richard Pugh said.

“We listened to feedback from customers in various applications across Australia, Russia, China and Southeast Asia and were able to introduce new features that increase productivity, handling, comfort and durability of the machines.”

QUALITY CONTROL

New generation excavators are now manufactured in a purpose-built factory in Tianjin, China, and fully meet John Deere global

quality standards. Consistency is not only in the products themselves, but in the factories that produce them, the company said.

Across the globe, John Deere machinery operates in extremes of temperature, dust, vibration and moisture; challenging the design teams to develop high-performing displays, electronic control units, power distribution and telematics solutions. Deere designs the majority of its components itself, which it says means that there is no compromise on the overall design. This deep vertical integration of products provides a further competitive edge to customers.

Rauch added that the company can produce the same parts and components to identical standards at any of its manufacturing facilities – thanks to its high-precision machinery and techniques.

“This is accomplished by using the John Deere Production System at all of our factories. No matter the location, employees follow the same procedures, and use the same tooling, assembly processes and quality assurance checks,” he said.

Once a build is complete quality inspections continue, with new products put through a series of thorough trials to ensure quality and performance at dedicated factory test facilities. Equipment is subjected to several thermal cycles, raising and lowering operating temperatures. This is why John Deere machines will often have two to three hours on the clock at time of delivery – so customers can be assured the equipment has been thoroughly tested. As new components are designed, they are put through the John Deere Product Validation and Verification (PV&V) process. This involves accelerated load cycling and stress testing to simulate worksite use.

These strict engineering standards for each component ensures that highest level of comfort, function, and performance is delivered when it all comes together in the factory.

“The purpose of everything we do is to ensure that we’re building products that continue to deliver on the promise our company founder made – ‘I will never put my name on a product that does not have in it the best that is in me,’” Rauch said.

Scan the QR Code to take a look inside the John Deere Excavator Factory.

John Deere puts its construction and forestry equipment through the wringer to ensure it’s ready for whatever its buyers can throw at it.

A smart tool in Dubuque tightens each wheel nut to the specified torque at the same time on a skid steer loader.

Rod Vilhauer, Senior VP at Vilhauer Enterprises and member of John Deere’s customer advocate group for the 850L crawler dozer, is proud of the machine and the company.

For additional quality auditing, a UV sensitive dye is added to the factory fluids, the equipment is run through a thermal cycle, then thoroughly inspected to detect leaks.

NEVER SETTLE NEVER STOP NEVER IDLE

It takes a different kind of brain behind the brawn. Fired up like a turbo diesel. Gears constantly churning. Hardwired beneath hard hats to solve problems, or avoid them altogether. With you and your crew at the helm, and Deere at your back. The workarounds, ideas and innovations that move earth, and your business, forward. Because that’s what it takes to win in the dirt. And that’s what it means to be Never Idle.

WHEN TO CONSIDER REMOTE TECHNOLOGIES FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Remote-control options are available for equipment large or small.

Technology is ever evolving and constantly changing, from cell phones to apps and even heavy equipment. You may not be thinking about integrating remote or autonomous equipment into your fleet in the immediate future, but there’s a good chance you are developing or bidding on contracts for new sites for batch plants, feed lots, bulk handling, industrial or waste transfer stations. And if you want to remain competitive in tomorrow’s market, you need to approach your new sites with new and future technologies in mind.

Cat ® Command Remote Control Technologies are reshaping the jobsite by expanding possibilities for safer operations and enhanced productivity. These applications are especially important in jobsites in Australia and New Zealand. When working with hazardous materials or potentially dangerous conditions – such as mine reclamation, working around tailing dams, stockpiling material, scaling high walls or on demolition sites –remote control technologies are already at work and improving the bottom line.

We know that our customers’ working conditions and needs are distinct, but remotecontrol options are available for equipment

large or small. When operators need to work off-site and move away from dangerous conditions, they’re able to do their work away from the risk and focus on the task at hand. Operators can work kilometres away from the site, eliminating the hazards and distractions of the site.

When, where and why should you consider remote technologies for your business?

This month Kim caught up with Matthew Hendry, Caterpillar’s Global Product Marketing Consultant for Cat Command, and they’ve got some points for you to consider.

Matthew mentioned several reasons why companies in Australia and New Zealand should be considering remote technology. Read on to learn more about how remotecontrol technologies can improve safety, efficiency and employee retention.

SAFETY

Preventable safety incidents are happening every day, and remote technology provides solutions. With technology like Cat Command available, there’s no reason we should be putting operators into dangerous or hazardous work environments. Matthew emphasised, “Remote technologies reduce operator safety

risks from incidents like a high-wall collapse, harmful air-quality exposure or falls when climbing on or off a machine.” You’ll also see reduced fatigue for your operators because using technology like this gets rid of the noise, vibration and movement from being in the cab for long hours. Continued safe use of the machine with limited opportunities for risk also boosts your jobsite efficiency.

EFFICIENCY

In Australian and New Zealand markets, specifically, remote technologies can reduce the downtime spent travelling to machines and allow production to continue immediately following blasting operations. “Cat Command brings a full range of attributes in machine efficiency and uptime that simply cannot be ignored,” says Matthew. “When we think about sites where machines are not fully utilised, why don’t we switch between those machines with a single operator and fully utilise those people, those machines and the time? Rather than an hour’s long drive moving from site to site, using the Cat Command Station this happens in seconds with the click of a button.” By reducing shift change time, decreasing operator fatigue and making full use

When, where and why should you consider remote control technologies for your business?

Matthew Hendry explains why you need to start planning now for the future of heavy equipment operation.

of machine capacities, the adoption of remote technologies increases worksite returns.

EMPLOYEE RETENTION

Let’s clear the air here – there will always be a need for highly skilled operators in certain machines for certain applications. Remote technologies aren’t replacing jobs. As Matthew explains, remote technologies actually create the jobs of the future. “You still need fully trained and skilled operators who understand how to get the job done to operate equipment remotely through Cat Command.” This will pave the way for higher-paying jobs in the construction industry in the future, as well as the opportunity to hire more ground crew and offer greater opportunities for advancement within your organisation. Technology like Cat Command also appeals to the next generation of potential operators, which is exactly what we need to combat the current labour shortage in skilled trades. “This is the number-one issue we see with customers globally right now – attracting and retaining good operators,” says Matthew. “Cat Command brings a different viewpoint to what makes a good operator and opens up this line of work to a new generation who may have never considered it, as well as a career path for people who are unable to climb in and out of the cab.” With the ability to operate equipment on jobsites remotely, Cat Command provides the opportunity to hire and retain operators from a wider radius.

WHEN SHOULD I START PLANNING?

Short answer: Now.

It’s important not to dismiss technological advances. “If your competitors are early adopters, then you’ll be at a huge disadvantage if you don’t start planning now,” says Matthew. Remote technology needs to be considered within your infrastructure plans. If you are working on planning new sites today that will be permanent sites, plan them with controlled

areas for remote operation and plan to have infrastructure in place to support technological advancement. Matthew says, “Be sure to build it with the infrastructure in place now so that you’re ahead of the game when all the technology fully rolls out.”

HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOUR FLEET SHOULD INCLUDE REMOTE TECHNOLOGY

Here are some questions to ask yourself to help determine if your fleet is ready to start incorporating remote technologies now:

Is your work environment harsh or dangerous?

The ability to remove operators from potential harm is a huge benefit to remote technologies. Cat Command solutions also reduce fatigue, which means your operators’ health and wellness will also benefit.

What does your machine utilisation look like?

If you have a machine idle time of 40 per cent or more, you should consider remote

technologies. You can increase the utilisation of highly skilled operators and reduce idle time significantly using Cat Command.

Do you struggle to attract operators?

Technology is a key component of attracting new generations of workers. Cat Command is also important in our ability as an industry to retain skilled operators and hire those who cannot climb in and out of the cab.

Do you operate in remote, hard to reach locations?

Maybe you struggle to find operators who will relocate for specific job sites or have your team travelling hours each day to the site. “Cat Command gives you the ability to have your operators running machines on demand ,” explains Matthew, “so you can have an operator connect into a machine at a specific location and run that machine only for the times needed, from an office anywhere in the world.”

Do you currently have a safe, controlled area on-site to operate remote technologies?

If you have the space for it already, what are you waiting for?

Bottom line – remote technology is no gimmick, and it’s here to stay. Technologies like Cat Command are going to make huge differences in the industry as it relates to safety, as well as efficiency and employee retention. Keeping on top of the latest research and studies enables you to see how you can implement new technologies into your business and continue to grow as a result.

Contact your local Cat dealer for a consult on integrating Cat Command into your fleet.

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 1600

NZ TERRA 0800 93 39 39

Cat Command brings a full range of attributes in machine efficiency and uptime that simply cannot be ignored.

With the ability to operate equipment on jobsites remotely, Cat Command provides the opportunity to hire and retain operators from a wider radius.

WRAPS COME OFF HYDROGEN REFUELLER AS JCB UNVEILS INDUSTRY FIRST

JCB, which developed the world’s first working construction machines powered by hydrogen, has unveiled another world first for the industry – a mobile hydrogen refueller.

JCB is investing £100 million (AUD $176.23) in a project to produce super-efficient hydrogen engines. JCB has already showcased working prototypes of a backhoe loader and Loadall telescopic handler powered by hydrogen.

Recently, the company announced another industry first – a mobile hydrogen refueller, providing a quick and easy way for customers to refuel their machines on site.

Around 97 per cent of construction machines have fuel delivered to them while working on site. This means customers are already used to a transportable fuel, allowing refuelling to take place in a matter of minutes.

“Since we became the first construction equipment company to unveil machines

powered by hydrogen, many have asked how they can be refuelled,” JCB Chairman Lord Bamford, who is leading JCB’s hydrogen project, said.

“Well today, we have an answer with our new mobile hydrogen refuelling system, which allows hydrogen to be taken from on-site tube trailers and distributed to machines by our refueller as they work on the job site. This is no different to today when diesel is taken in bowsers to refuel machines.

“Fossil fuels are not the future and hydrogen is the practical solution to powering our machines in the decades to come. Our British engineers are doing a fantastic job in developing this technology and there

are many more exciting developments to come.”

A team of 100 engineers is working on the project. The first hydrogen powered machine to be unveiled was a JCB backhoe loader followed, a year ago, by a Loadall telescopic handler. The technology went on to be shown in the Green Zone at COP26 in Glasgow as world leaders debated measures to drastically reduce greenhouse emissions.

JCB has manufactured engines since 2004, producing them at plants in Derbyshire and in Delhi, India. Last year, JCB celebrated a major milestone with the production of its 750,000th engine.

For more information on JCB, visit www.jcb.com/en-gb

JCB’s new mobile hydrogen refueller.

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.

CJD KEEPS VICTORIAN HARD ROCK QUARRIES ROLLING

CJD Equipment’s nationwide distribution of construction equipment for the mining and quarrying industries has helped it cement a strong relationship with a Victorian business.

Australia’s booming resources sector requires its mines and quarries to deliver hundreds of millions of tonnes of product each year to local and international markets.

The backbone of any effective operation is the equipment needed to turn rocks into profits.

For Matthews Quarries, the go-to brand has always been Volvo.

Operating in Victoria, Matthews Quarries has depended on the Volvo brand since brothers Rob and Graeme Matthews reopened the quarry in 1980 after their father, Keith Matthews, had previously worked at the site before it was shut in 1952.

Matthews Quarries produces over 500,000 tonnes of premium basalt for Victoria’s local construction industry each year.

The company currently operates three sites in Victoria, including its 50 per cent stake in Latrobe Valley Sands. The three sites are used to produce washed sand, concrete, crushed rock, ballast and sealing aggregates.

For more than 15 years, the company has purchased machinery from its Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) dealer, CJD Equipment, to ensure the aggregates are supplied from the Latrobe Valley in a reliable way.

CJD is a nationwide distributor of construction machines from reputable brands such as Volvo CE and SDLG as well as the Kenworth, DAF, Isuzu and Fuso truck dealers in selected states.

The company was founded in 1974 and distributes construction equipment and trucks

Volvo’s state-of-the-art A60H at its quarry.

throughout Australia, including regional towns and mining hubs.

CJD is dedicated to providing its customers with the highest quality support available, evident through its slogan, ‘Big enough to trust, small enough to care.’

For Matthews Quarries owner Robert Matthews, Volvo equipment is a vital part of the company’s three operations consistently delivering sand and hard rock aggregates with minimal downtime.

“We have continued to invest in Volvo CE due to its reliability,” Matthews told Australian Mining.

Volvo CE machines are deployed across their quarry located on the Tyers-Walhalla Road, Boola including an A60H, two A40F, three

Matthews Quarries uses

A45G articulated haulers, two L250G, a L260H wheel loader and a 75-tonne Volvo EC750D excavator, which features a 3.3-cubic-metre to 5.16-cubic-metre bucket capacity range.

As the world’s leading manufacturer of articulated haulers, Volvo’s A60H has proven worthy to the demands of Matthews Quarries and is surprisingly versatile for its capacity.

The aim of an articulated hauler is to provide true off-road capabilities allowing work across all terrains.

Volvo’s 60-tonne A60H represents the company’s latest innovation in its articulated hauler concept, featuring differential locks, active hydraulic front suspension and load optimisation.

To ensure productivity levels are maintained, the A60H’s hydraulic front suspension allows it to continue moving in tough conditions, while its on board weighing system ensures each load is accurate.

The A60H’s includes 495-kilowatt engine and wet disk brakes which also allow the hauler to deliver reliable and efficient power delivery with a lower cost per tonne.

“The main reason we keep choosing Volvo is due to the dependability of the machines to produce what we expect,” Matthews said.

“We have maintained a good relationship with CJD Equipment that has enabled us to maintain reliability and sales.”

According to Matthews, CJD Equipment’s support and services have been made convenient with local aftersales service in the vicinity of the company’s operations.

“They offer local support and services for our machines nearby, so we don’t have to wait for them to come from Melbourne,” he continued. “It makes it much more convenient.”

Matthews Quarries also uses Volvo CE at its Latrobe Valley Concrete and Latrobe Valley Sands joint venture with the Blackwood family.

By using a Volvo L90F wheel loader, the company provides premix concrete and 450,000 tonnes of sand from the Latrobe Valley region of Victoria each year.

The Latrobe Valley Sands operation also features a Volvo EC18D compact excavator, EC480D excavator, two Volvo A45G articulated haulers, two A40F articulated haulers, two L250G and a L150F wheel loader.

A common trait among Volvo CE machines is their fuel economy, exhibited by the L250G’s 13-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, which delivers high torque at low engine speeds.

For Matthews, the value that the Volvo namesake represents has seen the company remain an active customer.

“The main reason we continue to purchase Volvo equipment is due to the competitive prices and reliability,” Matthews said. “Those are the two main aspects that keep us coming back.”

CJD Equipment has a full fleet of Volvo equipment for hard rock mining applications.

ASV RT-135 POSI-TRACK LOADER: THE MOST POWERFUL CTL EVER

ASV has produced the most powerful compact track loader (CTL) in the world – the RT-135 Posi-Track Loader. With 10 per cent more horsepower,

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

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

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

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

KEY FEATURES

The features of the ASV RT-135 Posi-Track Loader include:

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

• 196 litre fuel tank – 83L larger than its RT-120 predecessor – ensures minimal downtime for refuelling and therefore maximised profitability

• Significantly boosted tipping load capacity of 5,379kg – up from the 4,853kg offered by the RT-120

• New MAX-Series Cab: 360-degree visibility, LED lighting, more spacious, pressurised

for all-weather performance, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and a state-of-the-art 7-inch touch-screen display provides vital monitoring tools, displays the reverse camera view, and integrates with service history and schedules

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

• Frameless door with 3/4-inch polycarbonate, plus 1/2-inch polycarbonate side panels (meets Level 2 safety standards)

• Includes a roof escape to improve operator safety in emergency situations

• Less dirt penetration and easier-to-access engine componentry results in minimised service and repair requirements

• Improved undercarriage: redesigned torsion axles are 20 per cent stronger and

The RT-135 Posi-Track Loader has the option to be outfitted with forestry-rated guarding and safety features.

150mm wider than their predecessors for improved comfort, stability and less ground disturbance, and a class-leading 381mm of ground clearance allows operators to work where other machines can’t.

QUALITY, GUARANTEED

ASV stands behind the reliability of its entire range of Posi-Track loaders, with an industry leading 2-year, 2,000-hour warranty – plus a nationwide Australian service network ready to assist with any machine requirement to minimise your downtime and maximise your profitability.

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

MAX-Series

360-degree

is more spacious and is pressurised to perform better no matter the weather.

it brings operators a new level of performance and reliability.

The

Cab provides

visibility,

The RT-135 Posi-Track Loader ensures less dirt penetration and easy access to engine components.

VERSATILITY YOU CAN RELY ON

CASTROL RX SUPER - RELIABLE VERSATILITY

Whether you’re digging deep or aiming high improved Castrol RX SUPER has always got your back. Upgraded CJ-4 specification combats soot and gives critical moving parts a tougher protective layer. New DuraShield BoostersTM giving up to 40% better protection against wear*. Improved Castrol RX SUPER - the versatility that always gets the job done.

250 HIDROMEKS SOLD IN AUSTRALIA

Hidromek celebrates a new milestone, having sold 250 machines in Australia.

Hidromek remains the market leader in Turkey and has sold in excess of 50,000 machines around the world through its global dealer network. The company’s range of machinery has obtained an impressive list of design awards – including German Design Awards, IF Design Germany Awards, Red Dot Awards, ABC Awards, Automotive Brand Contest Awards and several Good Design Awards.

Hidromek are continuously developing their existing machinery range and expanding with new releases. In the last few years, a new series of excavators has been released along with numerous new machinery models. At the latest Bauma show, Hidromek launched several new releases including the HMK630WL Wheel Loader, K4-Series Backhoe Loader, a tracked mini–Backhoe Loader HMK62T, HMK680MG Grader, HMK235LCSR, HMK520LCHD, HMK150WR and more.

Onetrak took over the national distribution of Hidromek construction equipment in 2018

and has recently reached a milestone by delivering over 250 machines in Australia.

“2022 has been a wonderful year for new Hidromek sales,” Al Garcia, National Sales Manager at Onetrak, reflected on the recent milestone. “The machines have rightly earned their deserved recognition as a high quality European manufactured product that is highly reliable and very refined to operate in any conditions. This, along with our commitment to customer support, has given many new customers the confidence to invest in Onetrak and Hidromek.

“It is due to the continued commitment and magnificent work that our team does, both in promoting the machines and servicing the Hidromek product to the highest standard, that is helping us achieve our goals.”

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

David Hazell, Managing Director at Onetrak, gives some insight into the future direction for Hidromek.

Hidromek HMK310LC Excavator working in a quarry in Tasmania.

Hidromek’s compact HMK230MG Grader being delivered to a customer.

“We are proud to be the sole Australian distributor for the quality Hidromek product and very grateful for the loyal support we have received from customers across Australia. This milestone of 250 machines sold in Australia is significant, but we are certain it will be the first of many,” Hazell said.

“The Hidromek product is heavy-duty, but at the same time very refined. I am pleased to say we are experiencing a considerable amount of repeat business with happy clients and operators. At Onetrak, we are very confident in the future with Hidromek and continue to invest in increased levels of parts inventory, service training and infrastructure to support this brand with our talented staff nationally.”

In addition to selling Hidromek machines Onetrak also has Hidromek machines in the rental fleet offering various options for customers, regardless of whether they are looking for short-term hire or their next equipment investment.

The Onetrak dealership network covers sales and aftersales Australia-wide with branches in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia.

Get in touch with Onetrak today to learn more about Hidromek, or to book in a demo. Visit www.onetrak.com.au or call 1300 727 520.

The Hidromek HMK130CS roller working on forestry roads in NSW.

Nick from Chandlers Peak Pastoral in front of his new Hidromek HMK145LCSR Excavator.

Two Hidromek HMK102B Supra Backhoe Loaders working for a local government council.

ROTOFLEX® BY BLUNDSTONE— MADE FOR THE MODERN TRADIE

Born from several years of consumer-led research into the needs of workers in the trades, building and construction industries, Blundstone has biomechanically designed RotoFlex to provide outstanding levels of comfort and safety to its wearers.

The RotoFlex range is made up of six styles— four unisex boots offer five and six-inch ankle heights and two women’s specific styles. Each style has been expertly crafted to provide the very best in lightweight safety—and is suitable for a broad range of industries.

• Water-resistance: Each boot is designed with a water-resistant upper—great protection for trades in environments where water is present such as plumbing

• Zipper and zip tab: Fastened with an airportfriendly, plastic toothed zipper and a durable zip tab with superior grip, the RotoFlex range offers easy on, easy off convenience— an all-round favourite feature

• Slip resistant: The biomechanically conforming sole design, GripTek ® is designed to offer optimum grip, all-day stability and maximum comfort. The innovative design reduces slip hazard risk, fatigue, and ankle injury—ideal for those encountering dust, mud and slippery surfaces such as construction and building

• Heat resistance: The TPU outsole not only offers superior grip and stability, it provides the wearer with heat-resistant protection up to 140˚C

• Electrical hazard resistance: RotoFlex safety boots have been certified as electrical shock hazard footwear – ideal for electrical trades

• Compression-resistant toe cap: The Fortalite® composite toe cap holds its shape under immense pressure and is tested to withstand up to 200 joule impact

• Fit: The overarching comfort system, SoftCell® utilises a combination of specialist materials and a unique biomechanical foot-cradling design. This increases stability, balance, and manoeuvrability— providing all-encompassing comfort from day one

• Comfort: The AirCell footbed has been uniquely constructed with specialised zoning designed to activate ventilation. This allows air to be pumped through

Each boot is designed with a water-resistant upper.

The RotoFlex range has been expertly crafted to provide the very best in lightweight safety.

channels to the heel, arch of the foot and between the toes, offering moisture control and cushioning comfort as the wearer walks and moves.

Every component used in the RotoFlex range has been researched, tested, and trialled. Blundstone’s dedicated design team considered several options for each element of RotoFlex to ensure a truly innovative, better performing safety boot. If they couldn’t find the perfect piece, they created it so Blundstone could deliver best-in-market safety footwear.

Put Blundstone’s innovation to work at participating retailers now.

RotoFlex by Blundstone is setting a new benchmark for safety footwear in Australia.

The biomechanically conforming sole design, GripTek is designed for better grip, stability and comfort.

STABILITY MEETS THE

TO

WRIGHT WAY PLUMBING & CIVIL AND STM TRUCKS & MACHINERY

Wright Way Plumbing & Civil has in a comparatively short period of time built a strong reputation as a stormwater infrastructure and civil earthworks specialist, with the familyowned, Western Sydney-based company dedicated to providing its clients efficient, effective and comprehensive services across projects both large and small.

Founded in 2016 by Director and Owner Nathan Wright, the proudly Indigenous company draws on significant industry experience, with three generations at the helm, and oversees a team focused on exceeding customer expectations by delivering high-quality projects safely and on time.

Nathan told EEM that, with his father involved in the civil industry, he had grown up with this as an influence, having himself started out in the industry in 2000, undertaking an apprenticeship for a civil and plumbing company.

“I did a fair bit of plumbing for quite a lot of years, and I went in and out of civil through the years,” he said. “We started Wright Way in 2016. I bought a machine, employed a guy and got started.

“It was three of us for about seven months. We then got a break on some Transport for NSW work. They needed some help, and from there we basically got asked to stay on the

project. We worked on that project for a year and a half, and in that time grew to 20 people.”

While the business has in the years since navigated a number of challenges, including the uncertainty brought about by Covid, it now has upwards of 40 staff on its books and presides over an extensive and evolving range of high-tech equipment and machinery.

QUALITY AND SAFETY A STRONG FOCUS ACROSS ALL PROJECTS

Wright Way draws on a comprehensive knowledge of drainage installation in providing its clients a range of services, including culvert installation and backfill, stormwater drainage systems, subsurface drainage and various other drainage system types.

In addition to this, it has the capacity to undertake a variety of earthworks and excavation projects, ranging from civil and bulk earthworks, to concreting, and crushing and screening of building materials.

Nathan told EEM that Wright Way prides itself on its strong focus on quality and safety across projects of all types.

“Our quality, our safety, is second to none, and I don’t believe I’ve witnessed anybody else come close to us on those fronts,” he said. “It makes it hard to make profit because

STM Trucks & Machinery counts the better part of 20 Kobelco excavators among its fleet.

we have to win the jobs at the same price as everyone else.

“We’re also very fortunate to have very loyal and capable staff. That’s probably actually the point of difference – we’re very strong in the office and we’re very strong on the ground.”

This approach has been keeping Wright Way busy with a steady procession of projects in recent times, including the Mona Vale Road upgrade and Spring Farm Parkway project with civil and building construction company Georgiou Group.

It has also been working on the Moorebank Avenue upgrade with engineering design, construction and land development company BMD Group, and the King Georges Road and Canterbury Road intersection upgrade for civil construction company Daracon Group.

STM TRUCKS & MACHINERY: D’AVINO DS70 ARTICULATED DUMPERS GET THE JOB DONE

In line with its ongoing growth, Wright Way has been regularly adding to its equipment fleet, placing an emphasis on ensuring its machinery is both up to date and up to the task, allowing it to complete projects efficiently and effectively, catering for its clients’ diverse requirements.

When it comes to its equipment needs, it has been dealing with STM Trucks & Machinery for a number of years, and counts the better part of 20 Kobelco excavators among its fleet.

Earlier this year, Wright Way added a number of D’Avino DS70 articulated dumpers to its fleet, incorporating high-quality components and decked out with a number of features designed to get the job done across a range of demanding applications.

Nathan told EEM that the DS70’s 7000kg load capacity had initially caught his eye, backed by what he describes as an “extremely competitive” price.

“That was the drawcard for us, along with an extended warranty,” he commented. “They’ve been performing well, and we’ve had no complaints. And it’s the after-sales with STM that keeps me coming back.”

Adrian Martiniello, STM Machinery Sales, highlighted the strong relationship STM has built with Wright Way, while also pointing to STM’s firm focus on providing equipment support when required.

“Wright Way has also recently taken delivery of another Kobelco mid-sized excavator,” Adrian said. “Nathan is a pleasure to work with and has multiple relationships with all levels of our business, from the mechanics through to the owners.”

D’AVINO DS70 ARTICULATED DUMPER SPECS

The DS70 runs a 52.1kW Yanmar Diesel Tier IIIA engine, has a maximum driving speed of

30km/h, and a maximum gradeability with a full load of 35 per cent, with its hydrostatic transmission incorporating two forward and two reverse gears.

Its features include:

• Certified Hardox body – the 3600 L SAE heaped capacity/2800 litres struck capacity body is manufactured using Hardox 450 abrasion-resistant steel. A 180-degree swivel subframe is mounted on a reinforced slewing bearing, ensuring the maximum performance within the three sides of the dumping area.

• Enhanced stability – D’Avino’s exclusive drivetrain layout lowers the machine’s centre of gravity, contributing to enhanced stability and driving platform accessibility, without compromising visibility and ground clearance. The DS70’s compact external dimensions, along with a folding ROPS protection frame, allow for maximum manoeuvrability.

• Driving platform – the standard Grammer Deluxe seat features a double armrest and is combined with a single-handed joystick with integrated reversing shuttle. Enhanced platform accessibility has been developed to reduce operator fatigue while embarking and disembarking the machine.

• Reinforced articulation – the DS70’s bidirectional articulation ensures strength and durability through the machine’s lifetime, reducing the total cost of ownership.

• Maintenance – the DS70’s subframe is fitted with a locking device for securely resting the dump body in the upper position for maintenance and cleaning purposes, while the engine compartment is located on the right-hand side of the machine and is accessible from the ground.

Wright Way draws on a comprehensive knowledge of drainage installation to provide its clients a range of services.

Wright Way has the capacity to undertake a variety of earthworks and excavation projects.

FECON FORESTRY EQUIPMENT: BUILT FOR TOUGH 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 steel, Fecon products are engineered and constructed with unmatched durability and power to tackle any Australian timber.

Furthermore, customers of the national supplier Fecon Australia receive world-famous forestry machines backed by the best local service, support, parts and sales.

BULL HOG MULCHERS

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 tonnes 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 materialloads, higher RPM means more bites per second and finer material sizing. With heavier material, the Bull Hog delivers more rotor torque keeping the rotor turning when other heads may stall.

FORESTRY ATTACHMENTS

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.

FORESTRY TRACTORS

Finally, if you need a machine plus attachment combination ready to tackle even the most challenging land clearing project, Fecon Australia’s range of forestry tractors are simply unmatched for quality, performance, and durability. Ranging from the 140 horsepower FTX150-2 up to the absolute beast 600 horsepower FTX600, Fecon Australia’s

machines are made to perform. Complete with ‘severe duty’ high flow hydraulic Bull Hog mulching heads, no job will stand in the way of a Fecon forestry tractor.

NATIONWIDE SUPPORT

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.

Fecon builds the toughest forestry attachments and machines, and its national counterpart is backed by great service and support.

Fecon Bull Hog Mulchers are engineered to suit a variety of track and skid steer loaders.

Fecon Australia offers a range of vegetation management attachments.

Fecon Australia’s range of forestry tractors are unmatched for quality, performance and durability.

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.

SCHEDULED SERVICE PARTS AVAILABLE ON MYKOMATSU

To ensure your Komatsu equipment remains productive, reliable, safe and efficient, it’s essential that customers follow the regular servicing requirements specified for Komatsu’s service meter reading (SMR) hours.

And because the parts and consumables needed to carry out a scheduled service can vary considerably depending on the machine and the relevant SMR service, it can be a time-consuming process to ensure all the parts required have been ordered.

Now, to make this process easier, faster and more efficient, the myKomatsu online parts portal allows customers to order their scheduled service parts through pre-populated Bill of Material lists using an easy-to-use, intuitive process.

To gain access to this new feature, which was introduced in response to customer demand and requests, customers must be logged in.

HIGH STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER ORDERS

According to David Small, Komatsu’s General Manager Aftermarket, ordering through myKomatsu’s pre-populated list feature ensures customer orders contain all the parts and consumables required for a machine’s SMR service, so that it fully aligns with the company’s National Service Standards.

“Komatsu’s National Service Standards specify which parts are required for each SMR service interval; these standards have been developed to build on and expand Komatsu’s factory standards,” Small said. “By using scheduled service parts based around the National Standard, customers

The myKomatsu online parts portal has been designed to make ordering of parts for your Komatsu machine service easier.

are assured they are maintaining their machines using the right OEM parts, backed by full Komatsu warranty.

“Customers’ ability to order these scheduled service parts using pre-populated lists through myKomatsu greatly streamlines the ordering process, so that the correct parts are supplied for the right machine every single time. This helps ensure that a machine’s productivity and uptime is maintained, with unscheduled downtime far less likely to occur.”

HOW IT WORKS

Scheduled service parts included within Komatsu’s National Standard include:

• Filters, including fuel, oil, hydraulic, air, coolant and brake fluid.

• Fluids, including coolant, oils and greases.

• KOWA oil sample kits.

• Hoses.

• Nuts, bolts, washers, seals and other small items.

“myKomatsu automatically creates a pre-populated list of scheduled-service parts matched by serial number to the customer’s actual machine. This list contains the full range of parts required for the next SMR service interval,” Small said. “That means they are not taking any shortcuts or finding out that they don’t have all the parts and consumables they need for a scheduled service.”

Within myKomatsu, customers can search for scheduled service parts based on their machine model, as well as by serial number, to ensure they have everything they need. Premium online account customers can also search according to their fleet records.

Small said it’s a simple 3-step process to search and buy the correct pre-populated parts list for a machine’s scheduled service, giving customers a fast and efficient online shopping experience:

• Step 1: Enter machine’s details (either model number or serial number), or select a machine from a fleet list (Premium Online Account customers only).

• Step 2: Select the machine’s engine serial number range.

• Step 3: Select the upcoming SMR service interval, between 250 and 6,000 hours.

“Once identified, each pre-populated parts list shows the individual items within it, so a customer understands what’s required, including the individual parts, and the quantities of each,” Small said. “Customers

can add extra items, or even delete some if they don’t wish to purchase. At all times, the flexibility in the ordering process is within the customer’s control.”

Scheduled service parts can be added to a shopping cart with a single click. They can also be saved to a “Wishlist” for a future checkout without having to repeat the process.

Scheduled service parts orders can also be shared with others within an organisation, including identification of the model and service interval.

MORE AVAILABILITY

According to Small, another enhancement on myKomatsu is the availability of parts in stock.

“This includes stock within its local distribution centre and local branch. Service parts ordered through myKomatsu are shipped from our region-wide network of distribution centres and branches, directly to the nominated location for that machine, whether it’s the customer’s workshop, jobsite or office,” Small said.

“This latest upgrade is the latest in Komatsu’s suite of offerings through our myKomatsu online customer portal. We’re excited to be able to continually grow our digital offering to make it easier for customers to do business with us online.

“From the rollout of our online portal in 2019, to the integration of our Condition Monitoring Services website in 2020, and now the quick and easy online ordering of scheduled service parts, this is the latest example of how we are constantly responding to customers,” he said.

The myKomatsu online customer portal is available at my.komatsu.com.au and can be accessed by any web-enabled device – desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone – 24/7, from any location.

TIGERCAT MULCHERS

Tigercat’s mulcher range now consists of two wheeled versions, the M726G and the 760B and two tracked versions, the 470 and 480B.

Tigercat mulchers are versatile machines with wide use areas in applications such as pipeline cleaning, clearing shrubbery and regrowth, right of way clearing for powerlines, land subdivision, golf course maintenance, site prep, and controlled fire hazard reduction including fire way clearing and fire breaks.

The 480B and 760B are now available in Australia.

The 480B mulcher is the larger of the two tracked mulchers. It is a 550 hp class carrier best suited to tough terrain, soft soil conditions and demanding duty cycles. It is an ideal carrier for large scale clearing and right-of-way projects.

The wheeled version 760B mulcher is the largest wheeled mulcher. It is a 569hp class carrier that can achieve quick working speeds and a wide swath for high production. It is an ideal carrier for silviculture site preparation. The machine can quickly and efficiently clear residual forest debris and grind stumps to ground level to facilitate replanting.

Across the range the cabins incorporate well-appointed operator stations featuring a large LCD touchscreen and ergonomic, armrest mounted joystick and drive. The mulchers have built-in compressors for cleaning the machines, standalone attachment pumps for the heads, and a large cooling package for extreme conditions.

The mulchers are equipped with high-lift boom geometry and equipped with Tigercat’s own 4061-30 mulching heads. The 4061 mulching head is belt driven, comes with twin drive motor, variable displacement, replaceable teeth and replaceable wear liners throughout. The 4061-30 mulching head provides the performance, uptime and confidence required for large scale, time sensitive right-of-way and site preparation applications as well as silviculture site preparation work and stump grinding.

To learn more about the Tigercat mulchers and their versatile use areas visit www.onetrak.com.au or call 1300 727 520.

THE 480B MULCHER

FEATURES:

Powerful tractive effort

• Efficient, responsive closed loop track drive system.

• Excellent performance in challenging terrain.

Oscillating track system

• Heavy duty track frames and mounting system.

Efficient, high-capacity cooling system

• Automatic variable speed fan for improved fuel economy.

• Reversing cycle combats airborne dust and debris.

High-lift boom geometry

• Achieves high production in tough terrain, slopes and gullies.

Tigercat heavy duty build quality

• Very reliable with high uptime for time-sensitive projects.

The Tigercat range of mulchers has expanded to include the 480B and 760B.

THE

760B

MULCHER FEATURES:

High horsepower carrier

• Powerful, efficient Tigercat FPT engine.

• Specialised for post-harvest clean up.

Efficient, high-capacity cooling system

• Automatic variable speed fan for improved fuel economy.

• Reversing cycle combats airborne dust and debris.

Durable Tigercat design and construction

• Heavy duty front chassis and boom system.

• Tigercat designed and manufactured axles, transmission, and pump drive gearbox.

• Proven reliability with high uptime for time-sensitive projects.

Standard equipped boom float system

• Mulching head automatically follows terrain contours.

• Achieves high production in tough terrain, slopes and gullies.

Thoughtful component arrangement

• Large doors for easy access to daily service points.

Quiet, climate-controlled operator’s station

• Extreme duty, heated and cooled, air-ride suspension seat.

• High output heater and A/C.

• Standard rearVIEW camera system.

• Ergonomic, armrest mounted joystick steer and drive.

Excellent access to daily service points

• Tilting cab for additional access to components.

Quiet, climate-controlled operator’s station

• Extreme duty, heated and cooled, air-ride seat.

• Electronic control system with colour LCD display.

• Insulated and isolation mounted.

• High output heater and A/C.

• Ergonomic, armrest mounted joystick steer and drive.

Both mulchers feature a quiet, climate-controlled operator’s station.

HOW CLEANER CONSTRUCTION CAN BUILD A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Embedding sustainable practices is critical in ensuring the long-term success of your construction business as we move towards a greener global economy. Viva Energy Australia (Shell Lubricants Macro Distributor) and Shell Lubricant Solutions provide a range of options to help businesses achieve operational excellence and reduce their environmental impact.

Reducing CO 2 emissions is top of the business agenda across all industries including construction, as tighter regulations and consumer demand mean a shift towards a low-carbon economy. But the pressure to maximise output and increase productivity at the same time creates operational challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic has further increased these pressures, and construction companies have found it difficult to keep up with demand due to dwindling workforces. And the demand is clearly rising, with the industry predicted to expand by 35 per cent over the next decade.1

“Minimising the environmental impact of industry is not a new concern, but recent years have seen an increased focus and the acceleration of action. Around the world and across industries, companies are setting ambitious targets to decarbonise their operations,” Troy Chapman, Vice President –Global Marketing B2B and OEM Lubricants, Shell Lubricant Solutions said.

“This presents businesses with the challenge of finding practical solutions to help protect the environment while also meeting the ever-present demand for higher productivity, complying with rapidly changing legislation and strengthening their licence to operate. All while optimising their total cost of ownership.”2

Like most industries, the construction industry faces a delicate balancing act: how to meet demand and drive profitability while improving its environmental impact and reducing CO 2 emissions. Shell Lubricants help businesses to use more sustainable practices that serve to avoid or reduce emissions, and can provide opportunities for CO2 offsets. Practices such as improving equipment performance and energy efficiency, investing in carbon-offsetting programs and offering a range of carbonneutral premium lubricants from 2021, such as the Shell Naturelle range.

SHELL NATURELLE

Construction operations are also increasingly in remote and diverse locations. It is vital to develop innovative solutions that ensure businesses can flourish while preserving these sensitive environments. Shell Lubricant Solutions offers a range of readily biodegradable lubricants that help businesses to grow safely and sustainably.

Shell Naturelle S2 Hydraulic Fluid is a biodegradable hydraulic fluid for advanced performance in environmentally sensitive areas. Using an EAL (Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant) like Shell Naturelle, provides an effective way for companies operating near environmentally sensitive areas to manage their impact on ecosystems, by protecting soil and groundwater with low ecotoxicity lubricants and maintain their licence to operate. New regulations and industry practices are also encouraging businesses to manage their waste in a more efficient way. Shell Lubricant products are designed to extend equipment life to reduce waste and to encourage the recycling of used parts. The plastic pails used for the Shell Naturelle range currently include 25% post-consumer recycled resin 2, and these solutions comply with the latest 2020 EU Ecolabel requirements and help reduce plastic waste to landfill.

“Increasingly, there is a realisation among companies that making a tangible difference means looking at not only their own operations but also their whole supply chain,” Chapman pointed out. “So, customers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions that contribute to a company’s broader sustainability targets.” 2

REACH SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

As we progress towards a more circular economy, businesses are finding ways to reuse, recycle or repurpose products. Working with a partner with the right expertise enables you to unlock the ability to increase both profitability and sustainability.

Shell Lubricants and Viva Energy Australia work with business partners to reach their sustainability goals by educating maintenance

managers on the performance benefits of regenerated oils with base oils, and reviewing the use of sustainably sourced raw materials such as re-refined base oils and bioderived materials, plus provide peace of mind that the products meet regulatory requirements.

Shell Naturelle carbon neutral3 lubricants present an easy choice for construction businesses. They protect equipment, the environment and productivity. For more information speak to our Viva Energy Technical Help Desk (Shell Lubricant Specialists). Call 1300 134 205 or email technicalhelpdesk@vivaenergy.com.au

Shell Naturelle S2 Hydraulic Fluid is a biodegradable hydraulic fluid for advanced performance in environmentally sensitive areas.

Sources:

[1] Independent Commodity Intelligence Services, 2020 [2] 1220793 Shell-Carbon-Neutral-White-Paper-V8 pdf

– Biodegradable Lubricants: Their Role In Decarbonizing Industry (2022)

[3] “Carbon neutral” indicates that Shell has engaged in a transaction where an amount of CO2 equivalent to the CO2e amount associated with the raw material extraction, transport, production, distribution, usage and end of life of the Lubricants has been avoided as emissions through the protection of natural ecosystems or removed from the atmosphere through a naturebased process.

Shell Lubricants is helping businesses use more sustainable practices that avoid or reduce emissions.

UHI MACHINERY LAUNCHES XCMG ROTARY DRILLING RIGS

Manufactured by multinational heavy machinery company XCMG, the XR80E and XR240E rigs now stocked through UHI Machinery bring together a range of innovative features and deliver strong productivity benefits.

The XCMG family of rotary drilling rig covers every need and every application, no matter how big or small, no matter how harsh or remote. We offer drills in every size class — small, medium, large and ultra. But no matter which machine best fits your needs, you can count on the same level of quality, reliability and support that comes standard with every XCMG drill.

In a short time, UHI has forged a reputation as a supplier of high-quality machines sourced from top-tier manufacturers. Its partnership with XCMG, a top five global construction machinery company, is no exception, with XCMG machines recognised for their durability and efficiency.

In line with this, the XR80E and XR240E complement UHI’s portfolio of wheel loaders, skid steer loaders and mini loaders. A hallmark of the UHI range is the capacity to thrive in demanding conditions and tackle a variety of commercial projects, with the XR80E and XR240E providing all-round value.

XCMG RIGS DELIVER POWER AND VERSATILITY

UHI’s new XCMG rigs are decked out to tackle both driven and drilled pile foundation projects, catering for Kelly drilling, continuous flight auger, full displacement piles, single column mixing, cased continuous flight auger and low headroom applications. There are multiple functions in the XCMG rigs including optional cylinder pressurisation, hoisting pressure, casing drive, long spiral, high-speed throwing soil, and more to satisfy specific requests.

XR240E

The XR240E is a multifunctional machine, widely used in the hole-forming operations of cast-in-place concrete piles in the construction of roads, railways, bridges and large venues (with it especially suitable for industrial and civil buildings).

Weighing in at 84t (excluding drilling tools), its features include:

• A 252kW Isuzu electronically controlled turbocharged engine meets North American Tier 4 Final and Euro Stage V emission standards, paving the way for lower fuel consumption along with convenient and efficient service;

• Provides quick functions switching, such as crowd cylinder, crowd winch, continuous

flight auger and dual rotary drive, meeting different construction needs;

• The rotary drive and main winch are designed to deliver efficient performance, with the main and auxiliary winches both utilising single-rope technology;

• The double jib parallelogram luffing mechanism has a large support angle, making operations more stable;

• An intelligent control system enables functions such as automatic adjustment and display of mast perpendicularity,

automatic rotation, spin-off, lifting and concrete pouring, and pile type display;

• The hydraulic system adopts negative flow control technology, which has a fast response and good handling performance; and

• A high-power, temperature-controlled independent hydraulic oil radiator can meet the construction requirements of hightemperature areas, with it adjusting the fan speed according to temperature changes, saving energy.

XR80E

The XR80E is composed of a base unit on crawlers and a drilling application module, which is widely used in the hole-forming operations of cast-in-place concrete piles in the construction of roads, railways, bridges, ports and high-rise buildings.

Weighing in at 30t (excluding drilling tools), its features include:

• An electronically controlled and turbocharged 115kW Cummins engine, which meets North American Tier 4 Final and Euro Stage V emission standards;

• A hydraulic telescopic crawler chassis and large diameter slewing bearing provides strong stability and allows for easy transportation;

• The hydraulic pressure system adopts limited power control and negative flow control, delivering energy efficiency;

• A standard centralised lubrication system makes maintenance more convenient;

• Standard configuration of the crowd cylinder is complemented by optional multifunctional configuration (including crowd winch, continuous flight auger and rotary spray); and

• Can be transported with the Kelly bar.

UHI BACKS PRODUCTS WITH FIRM FOCUS ON CUSTOMER SERVICE

UHI’s high-quality product portfolio is supported by knowledgeable and responsive customer service, that is strongly focused on ensuring customers receive the assistance they require at each stage of the purchase process from sales through to after-sales.

UHI also offers several finance options, designed to help customers quickly get equipment up and running in the field, with it very much aware of the importance of timing in tackling different projects.

Having grown its presence around the country in recent years, UHI’s network spans branches in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin and Townsville, providing both in-store pick-up and nationwide delivery.

In stock for immediate delivery, pricing starts from $450,000 plus GST. Interested? Make an inspection with UHI and you will be impressed by this beauty!

XCMG EXCAVATORS: PREMIUM PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY

As the world’s third largest construction equipment manufacturer with more than 40 years of industry experience, XCMG has built a global reputation for innovation, reliability and performance throughout its entire range of construction, agriculture and industrial machinery.

Throughout 2022, XCMG has taken Australia by storm with its exceptional line-up of mini and large excavators – with more than 10 models available sized from 1.7 up to 49 tonnes, and backed by one of the industry’s best warranty packages, the rapidly-growing popularity of XCMG excavators comes as no surprise.

MINI EXCAVATORS

XCMG’s mini excavator range is the perfect combination of high-performance, value-formoney and exceptional reliability. Starting with the compact yet powerful XE17U 1.7 tonner purpose-built for tight access work, up to the robust and powerful XE80U designed to dominate virtually any construction project, XCMG has you covered.

With premium engines from renowned manufacturers including Kubota and Yanmar, plus top quality componentry by Kawasaki,

Bosch-Rexroth, Eaton and Miller, XCMG mini excavators are built tough to perform, and durable to last.

In 2022, XCMG introduced its popular range of mini and large excavators in Australia, backed by an impressive warranty package and national parts and service network.

The XE55U is 5.7 tonnes of pure performance, comfort and reliability.

THE MODELS AVAILABLE INCLUDE:

• XE17U: 1.7t Operating Weight, 64LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 15.8HP Kubota Engine

• XE27U: 2.7t Operating Weight, 82LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 20.9HP Kubota Engine

• XE35U: 4.2t Operating Weight, 108LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 24.4HP Yanmar Engine

• XE55U: 5.7t Operating Weight, 158LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 41.8HP Kubota Engine

• XE80U: 9.5t Operating Weight, 219LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 73.2HP Kubota Engine

LARGE EXCAVATORS

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

Available in various excavator sizes from 10 to 50 tonne to cater for virtually any requirement or project, the entire range offers exceptional hydraulic performance, cycle times and breakout force. With premium Cummins and Isuzu engines, plus exceptional componentry by Kawasaki, Nabco and Miller, XCMG heavy excavators offer unmatched value for money.

In addition, cabins are spacious and comfortable for even the longest days on the job, including sound dampening and state of the art controls. In addition, XCMG excavators are designed for efficient serviceability and minimal downtime, using only the most reliable components for premium longevity.

Simply, XCMG heavy excavators are a must-have for any owner who requires

comfort, versatility and performance at a competitive price.

THE MODELS AVAILABLE INCLUDE:

• XE155: 16.6t Operating Weight, 2x113LPM

Hydraulic Flow, 121HP Cummins Engine

• XE215: 21.5t Operating Weight, 2x216LPM Hydraulic Flow, 181HP Cummins Engine

• XE245: 25.7t Operating Weight, 2x241LPM Hydraulic Flow, 201HP Cummins Engine

• XE310: 30.8t Operating Weight, 2x259LPM Hydraulic Flow, 226HP Cummins Engine

• XE370: 36.8t Operating Weight, 2x304LPM Hydraulic Flow, 284HP Isuzu Engine

• XE490: 48.1t Operating Weight, 2x360LPM Hydraulic Flow, 375HP Cummins Engine

WARRANTY, BACKUP AND SUPPORT

XCMG excavators are backed by one of the industry’s leading warranty provisions, giving you complete peace of mind and exceptional machine backup. Full warranty terms and conditions are available from your nearest XCMG dealer.

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

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

The XE370 is a large 36.8 tonne excavator with a 284HP Isuzu Engine.

WHY YOU SHOULD INVEST IN A SCREENING BUCKET

In this article, we discuss the many uses of a screening bucket. Hint: it’s not just for screening material.

A screening bucket is in some cases a well-engineered, and yet elegant piece of machinery that increases production and, in most applications, can provide additional revenue. Screening buckets attach to standard construction equipment like excavators and skid steers.

Like most equipment, brand matters. Some of the uses can only be handled by products manufactured by particular companies. Here we will focus on Flipscreen. They have a wide breadth of screening buckets that are used across industries.

WHAT A SCREENING BUCKET DOES

Screening buckets use a mesh of various sizes that enable you to scoop many different types of material for filtering – or screening. Versatile screening buckets make it easy to switch screens, as some projects require screening of different material types and/or size on the same job site. Screening buckets are hydraulically driven.

SCREENING MATERIAL TYPES

Screening buckets can handle many different types of material, including construction waste, topsoil and scrap metal. Used along with crushing buckets, they can increase crushing productivity. The salvaged material can be used on the job site or collected for further processing. Recycled material provides another revenue stream. Flipscreen offers industrial strength models that handle large items such as engine blocks. A Flipscreen can screen any material you can scoop.

SCREENING BUCKET USES

Screening buckets are useful in many industries. They are used for coal cleaning, waste handling and demolition. Screening buckets are used on construction, mining and landfill sites. With the right bucket screening model, you can handle corrosive material like fertiliser

Flipscreen’s motto is “If you can scoop it, you can screen it.” A screening bucket organises material on a job site without having to buy a separate machine. They can provide needed material like backfill for use on the site.

SCREENING BUCKET FEATURES

There are several features to consider when buying a screening bucket. Some are related to the task at hand, other features are brandspecific. We want to stress again that not all screening buckets are the same. For example, screening buckets have internal moving parts, whilst others have none, allowing them to handle almost any material. This increases the

overall life of the product. It also makes it easier to use and maintain the equipment.

MESH APERTURE

This is the largest size that you want to filter out of the material you’re scooping up. For example, the standard mesh range for Flipscreen screening buckets is between 6mm and 300mm. However, they can design custom meshes for your application.

SPILLAGE

When using a Flipscreen on an excavator, the attachment feels similar to a standard bucket and is watertight. When used on a loader, the operator can see through to the cutting edge. The operator can drive around the site with a full load without spilling any of the screened material.

MOVING PARTS

More parts mean higher maintenance. A screening bucket with more moving parts can result in fouling, jamming and tangling. The Flipscreen is empty; it relies on the external shape to carry out its functions. It’s not just about maintaining the machine –it reduces lost production. A screening bucket with fewer parts to deal with is less likely to breakdown in the field.

EASE OF USE

Changing the mesh

You want a screening bucket that does not require a high level of expertise to operate. Any Flipscreen screening bucket mesh can be changed in about five minutes. The operator unlatches the load binders on the mesh, re-enters the machine, activates the hydraulics and releases the old mesh. The new mesh

Flipscreen offers screening buckets that can handle large items such as engine blocks.

Flipscreen’s motto is “If you can scoop it, you can screen it.”

is fitted simply by engaging a hook, much like a quick couple. The operator then secures it in place.

Hydraulics

Flipscreen screening buckets use a “plug and play” smart valve to readily switch between carriers without requiring the operator to have a high-level understanding of hydraulics. It does not need changes to the hydraulics on the carrier machine. The smart valve ensures the correct speed and torque and ramps down smoothly to zero.

WRAP UP

Investing in a screening bucket can improve profits by saving time and turning material into usable – and saleable – product. Although screening buckets offer a simple design, you do want to consider which features are right for your application. Select your screening bucket based on the size and type of material you’ll be screening, the machine you’ll be attaching it to, and the job environment. Additional considerations are construction quality and other potential uses for the screening bucket (like concrete or soil mixing).

For more information, visit www.flipscreen.net

TILLY’S VISIT BAUMA IN MUNICH

The world has finally opened up again, affording the Australian heavy equipment industry the

international happenings at Bauma Munich.

Bauma Munich is one of the premier global trade shows showcasing all things construction, and members of the Tilly’s Toowoomba team were fortunate to visit again after a lengthy absence.

With around 3,200 exhibitors from 60 countries occupying 614,000m2 of space, it is a mammoth task for the 495,000 visitors from over 200 countries to cover all that ground, but is well worth the effort. The scale of the event alone is something to behold but more importantly, gaining current information on how the industry is trending is invaluable.

ELECTRICALLY POWERED MACHINERY

Technology is always at the forefront of these trade shows and this year was no exception, with less emphasis on autonomous machinery and a significant showing of electrically powered machinery. All the major original equipment manufacturers like Caterpillar, Komatsu, John Deere and

Major original equipment manufacturers like Caterpillar displayed machinery that use electric-powered motors.

of course the big player in that part of the world, Liebherr, displayed a broad range of machinery using electric-powered motors rather than the traditional dieselpowered option.

One of the most notable and impressive machines at the show this year was Komatsu’s PC4000 full electric excavator. Electrical power is clearly the trend moving forward, and it will be very interesting to watch how this technology filters into the Australian market and how long that impact will take.

Interestingly, having the opportunity to meet and talk to many Europeans at the show, there is a genuine concern in that region about the availability of power for the coming winter, given the current situation in Ukraine. The general public are really worried about simply heating their homes, which does beg the question: how are these electric machines going to be charged?

opportunity to reconnect and catch up on

The Tilly’s Toowoomba team attended Bauma 2022 in Munich among almost 500,000 other visitors.

UPCOMING TRENDS

Although there is a real sense of life returning to normal when surrounded by that many people, there was a glaring omission noticeable at this show and that was the Chinese manufacturers. It could be argued that it was a direct result of Bauma Shanghai being scheduled for November, which was subsequently cancelled. However, it more closely resembled what we are experiencing in the global market with a number of lockdowns still being enforced across China. That being said, on the positive side, there does seem to be a general consensus – even optimism – that the freight issues and pricing out of China are improving. Not yet to pre-COVID prices, but heading in the right direction.

Either due to the lack of Chinese presence, or just through an intended promotional

campaign, it was also very noticeable that the Turkish contingent was well represented in Munich. Without getting too far ahead of the game, the Turkish manufacturers have managed to introduce a number of products into existing distribution channels and are already making an impact.

Could Turkey be a major alternative for multiple product lines currently sourced out of China, given the changing Chinese environment? Unlike perception or previous experience, they certainly do seem to have a far greater focus on quality assurance and might be answering some of the questions end users have been asking for some time.

The Tilly’s team suggests that watching this space will be very interesting for the Australian industry.

From the huge 120m telescope truckmounted crane to the toy-like PC01E with

Honda replaceable battery packs, there certainly was something at Bauma for everyone in the construction, civil and infrastructure industries.

The event once again provided a great opportunity to enjoy face-to-face conversations with current suppliers and manufacturers to strengthen business relationships, alongside the opportunity to discover new business ideas and supply lines to grow the Australian market. Finally, observing the trends and the direction the European markets are taking gives a fair indication of the inevitable changes the Australian industry can expect in the longer term.

The “toy-like” PC01E with Honda replaceable battery packs.

A huge 120m telescope truckmounted crane was exhibited by Liebherr.

Komatsu’s PC4000 full electric excavator signalled a trend for electrical power.

KOMATSU NAMED LARGE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR IN NSW TRAINING AWARDS

Komatsu’s dedication to recruiting and training the best employees and apprentices has seen it win both national and global recognition.

The industry leader in mining, construction and earthmoving was named 2022’s NSW Large Employer of the Year, for their unrivalled companywide Learning and Development programs, and in the same week for the second consecutive year, they were also named a global leader in employee recruitment, placing in the top three of the Global Talent Board’s 2022 APAC Candidate Experience (CandE) Awards.

“Being recognised as the Large Employer of the Year for 2022 is a proud achievement. It highlights the great efforts we go to as an organisation to develop our people to be industry leaders, equipped to tackle the future challenges facing our industry,” Komatsu Australia Managing Director and CEO, Sean Taylor said.

Komatsu’s National Technical Capability Manager, Matthew Tosolini, was on hand to receive the award, commenting, “We view our training programs as more than just education programs. We invest in our people as long-term team members for the success of our business and industry.”

APPRENTICE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM

Komatsu’s innovative Apprentice Development System (ADS) program is at the centre of the successful submission. It has seen more than 600 apprentices and trainees participate in a holistic program that extends beyond the ‘traditional’ vocational education training framework.

“In 2009 we ran our first pilot of our ADS program designed around our commitment to train, develop and engage apprentices nationally, despite the fluctuations brought on by industry peaks and troughs. The first intake of the new program completed their qualifications in 2013 and many of them continue with the business today,” Tosolini explained.

As part of this new approach, Komatsu wanted to equip apprentices and trainees with important life skills. These included mental health awareness, public speaking, road safety and fatigue management, drug and alcohol awareness and a variety of business skillsets.

A NEW STANDARD

Through partnerships with leading expert providers such as Toastmasters, STEMPunks, NextWorld and local police agencies, Komatsu’s ADS has set a new national

standard for the way the industry trains its apprentices and trainees.

“We have received feedback that this program has become a benchmark for training nationwide. It has produced measurable results and a higher standard of learning outcomes. After the apprentices have finished their qualifications and are employed as skilled technicians, their training continues to remain a focus of the Komatsu Training Academy and Technical Capability Team,” Tosolini said.

“Our Technical Capability Team track their training against courses they attend with ongoing workplace-based assessments to make sure that they have retained the knowledge and are competent. We have designed a professional development program that is adult-learning centric. It comprises 70% job experience, 20% practical assessment and 10% classroom-based learning.”

Another point of difference is the way Komatsu incorporates technology into their training. Engaging third-party virtual reality specialists, NextWorld, helps them educate apprentices and trainees on potential workplace risks and the implications if workplace safety practices aren’t followed.

“Additions like this to our program allows us to create simulated events that cannot be reproduced safely in a real-life environment. Giving trainees these virtual experiences allow us to reinforce our safety principles whilst creating valuable and memorable reinforcement of safety principles,” Tosolini said.

RECRUITING THE BEST TALENT

Adding to the success are the rigorous recruitment methods to enable better hiring decisions, including targeting various age groups and life experience diversity.

In recognition Komatsu has again been awarded as a global leader in employee recruitment in the Global Talent Board’s 2022

APAC Candidate Experience (CandE) Awards.

“It has never been a more competitive landscape for trying to attract the best employees, and we take pride in making sure that each and every candidate, across the diverse roles we have on offer, are given a really great Komatsu brand and candidate experience,” Taylor said.

The US-based Talent Board, which has been running its Candidate Experience Awards (CandE Awards) for the past 10 years, is a non-profit research organisation focused on the elevation and promotion of a quality candidate experience against industry benchmarks that highlight accountability, fairness and business impact. The Talent Board and its CandE Awards are widely recognised globally as the pre-eminent organisation for candidate experience.

“Ultimately, sitting behind these great achievements are the wonderful staff who live our culture and make up our brand DNA,” Taylor said. “These awards are a great testament to the hard work and dedication of our passionate employees who deliver on the Komatsu brand promise of creating value together.”

Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. For a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Front-line industries worldwide use Komatsu solutions to develop modern infrastructure, extract fundamental minerals, maintain forests and create consumer products. The company’s global service and distributor networks support customer operations to enhance safety and productivity while optimising performance. For more information, visit www.komatsu.com.au

Komatsu has been recognised for its award-winning focus on innovative apprentice training and employee recruitment.

Komatsu Australia’s team accepting the Large Employer of the Year award at the 2022 NSW Training Awards.

Komatsu Australia’s Matthew Tosolini pictured holding the Large Employer of the Year 2022 Award.

BLUNDSTONE ROTOFLEX® #8553 UNISEX SAFETY BOOTS

If

The RotoFlex #8553 Unisex Safety Boots from Blundstone offer premium stability while providing the freedom to move.

The Rotoflex #8553 safety boots offer premium stability while providing the freedom to move. They do all of this while being packed to the brim with a massive list of features that seamlessly come together to create a sophisticated work boot that looks as good as it performs. And let’s be honest, these are some pretty awesome-looking work boots.

Looks aside, it’s the new technology that make the #8553 so impactful. With inclusions like Blundstone’s new GripTek ® HD sole (optimum grip and comfort), AirCell (airflow footbed), Fortalite® (compression-resistant composite safety toe cap), and SoftCell ® (comfort system) which encompasses Infinergy ® by BASF (E-TPU super elastic energy foam) — it’s no wonder these boots feel and perform as well as they do.

The Blundstone range, in recent times, has led the industry in just what’s possible from a safety work boot in terms of comfort and

• Lightweight safety

• On trend-style

• All-day comfort

• Composite toe cap

performance. So, for this new RotoFlex range to impress as much as it has, it’s clear that Blundstone has no intention of taking its foot off the gas when it comes to creating new and improved performance through design, materials and Blundstone’s world-renowned durability and performance.

Jordy from LVD Builders put the RotoFlex #8553 unisex safety boots through their paces…

STABILITY, COMFORT AND WEARABILITY

Blundstone’s all-new AirCell technology has been designed with all-day comfort in mind. This exclusively zoned airflow footbed is built to ventilate, control moisture and cushion when you move.

“I haven’t previously experienced this level of comfort in a work boot from the very first wear. Then once you start moving and working in the #8553s, you begin to appreciate just how much work has gone into creating these

Jordy reviews the new Blundstone boots.

boots. They feel noticeably lighter than my previous work boots, and after four or five days, you really can notice how much difference a lighter work boot makes at the end of the week,” Jordy shared.

“But the movement and freedom of these boots really stood out. After working in a range of positions, crouching down, kneeling, carrying materials and 101 other situations tradies experience in a workday, the flexibility and wearability of these boots shone through.”

COMPRESSION-RESISTANT SAFETY

It’s often a challenging balancing act for boot manufacturers to create the toe strength and safety required without limiting or restricting the toe movement. Still, it seems to be precisely what Blundstone has achieved with the #8553.

“Replacing the steel toe cap with a composite toe seems like a great way to reduce the weight of a safety boot, and this composite toe caps holds strong under immense pressure, all while keeping its shape and without restricting toe movement. It is the freedom of movement of these boots which stand out to me as its clear and impressive feature,” Jordy said.

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE NOT-SO-UGLY

The foundation of these boots starts from the ground up. The uniquely designed GripTek HD sole brings optimum grip and comfort across various challenging situations and environments.

Blundstone has gone back to the drawing board, creating all new technologies and materials to provide enhanced cushioning and to reduce the impact of every step taken — ensuring your feet are happier. At the end of the day, removing discomfort allows operators to focus on the job with their full and undivided attention.

The Griptek sole provides optimum grip in wet and slippery conditions.

Support, comfort and protection are a must for long days onsite.

The all-day comfort and safety are features that are sure to impress any operator.

The RotoFlex #8553s ensured flexibility and comfort in a range of positions.

• Griptek sole

Aircell

ALL GO FOR 2023 DIESEL DIRT & TURF GOLF DAY

The National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is where the earthmoving equipment industry gathers every year to exhibit the latest and greatest in machinery, technology and services. Over the years, members of the industry have demonstrated how much they enjoy the opportunity to network and build relationships through this event.

There are many stories around people and businesses that are always ready to lend a helping hand. The desire of the industry to make a contribution to the community is clearly shown at the annual Diesel Dirt & Turf golf day, where proceeds are raised for worthy community charities and organisations.

BACK FOR 2023

The Diesel Dirt & Turf annual charity golf day is back. After the 2022 golf day was flooded out, the local organisation Mama Lana’s Community Foundation is the Expo’s chosen charity again in 2023.

Mama Lana’s is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping the often forgotten homeless and underprivileged community in the greater Penrith region, to advance their wellbeing and prospects for future independence.

Mama Lana’s Community Foundation offers hot meals six nights a week, supplies food and toiletry packs, as well as providing clothing, sleeping bags, swags and blankets to keep the homeless and underprivileged warm during cold Penrith nights. MLCF also work with and assist other local charities and support services and responds to crisis calls from people who need a hand up with food, clothing, furniture, and in some cases, financial issues. Find out more at www.mamalanas.org.au

SUPPORTING THOSE AT A DISADVANTAGE

Founding director Lana Borg said that Mama Lana is thrilled to be chosen as the beneficiary of this year’s event.

“As a wholly not-for-profit charity, we receive no ongoing government funding and rely heavily on the support of private donors. To have this fundraising opportunity to enable our service to continue providing essential services to our local community is just amazing,” Borg said.

“We have seen an increase in the number of people needing assistance with food and basic necessities, so this fundraising will assist us greatly in continuing to support the homeless and disadvantaged in the Nepean area with meals, pantry items, toiletries and other basic needs.”

TOP GOLF VENUE

The 2023 Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo annual charity golf day is being held on Friday 3 March 2023

at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club, 2-8 Twin Creeks Drive, Luddenham. This popular event will kick off with a 6.30am breakfast, followed by a putting competition and then on to the main event.

The day features lots of big prizes on the course, however the most popular event is the Pickles auction of fantastic items donated by members of the industry, businesses, associates and others wishing to contribute to the needs of the community.

Expo manager Marti Zivkovich extended a huge thanks to the organisations and individuals who donate auction and raffle prizes and sponsor holes.

“Our thanks particularly to our gold sponsor Komatsu, gold media sponsors Earthmovers & Excavators Magazine and Trade Earthmovers, major supporter Pickles and associate sponsors Norm Engineering, Pickles, XCMG, What-If and Record TIME and Earthmoving Equipment Magazine,” Marti said.

“The golf day is a great way to build networking with others in the industry while enjoying a great day out and raising money for a worthy community cause.”

The dates for the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at Ferrers Road Eastern Creek, New South Wales are Friday 21 April to Sunday 23 April 2023. To enquire or book to secure your exhibitor site, contact Marti on 0411 648 465 or apply online.

This outstanding venue is conveniently located in the centre of Western Sydney and there are many choices for accommodation.

You can check out all the details of the 2023 Diesel Dirt &Turf Expo by visiting www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au

The National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo brings the earthmoving equipment industry together again in 2023 to make a difference at the annual golf day.

The previous Golf Day at Twin Creeks.

Mama Lana's Community Foundation is the Expo’s chosen charity this year.

EXHIBIT OR VISIT: DIESEL DIRT & TURF EXPO IS A WINNER

The 2023 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is coming in April 2023, giving those in the earthmoving, construction, public space management and earthworks industries a prime opportunity.

See the latest releases, technologies, tools, attachments and productivity enhancements in one place.

If you ask anyone why they attend expos and field days, there is a simple answer. People enjoy seeing what is new and the latest in earthmoving equipment and services.

Another important reason is the personal interaction with the technical professionals who supply and support the equipment.

Evaluating new equipment online is fine when you have a good idea of what you need, however there is no substitute for face-to-face inspection and getting the answers you need to make a well-informed purchase decision.

Expos are also an excellent place to meet industry colleagues who are happy to share their experiences that may help you determine what tools and options may be best for your business.

A PRIME OPPORTUNITY

The National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is Australia’s prime opportunity for anyone who works in the earthmoving, construction, public space management, earthworks and associated services industries to find out what is happening in the industry.

The Expo is where you can see the latest releases, technologies, tools, attachments and productivity enhancements in the one place.

MAJOR BRANDS SEE VALUE

Chris Moroz, Komatsu Sales Manager for New South Wales, sums up their experience.

“The Expo is the launch platform for the latest in smart construction technology for our range of bulldozers and excavators,” Moroz said. “The benefit for operators is high efficiency and the ability to work exactly to the project construction design.”

Greg Page from Tough Dog suspension upgrades for four-wheel-drive vehicles said, “Our market is typically those people who

The 2023 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is coming in April 2023.

would attend the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo. Many people in the construction industry drive off-road vehicles, both for work and play, so it makes good sense for us to be here.”

Roy Rossini, Director and General Manager for associate sponsor XCMG Mining Equipment Australia said, “The Expo gives us the right platform because it caters to our customer base.“

There is no substitute for face-to-face inspection before making a well-informed purchase decision.

GRAB A GREAT AUCTION DEAL

Hugh Rainger from Pickles Auctions said that the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo is one of their highlight events of the year.

“We have exhibited at Diesel Dirt & Turf from the first year and we have created a great following through the event,” Rainger said.

Expo Manager Marti Zivkovich said, “There are many reasons why exhibitors return year after year to participate in Diesel Dirt & Turf. We are particularly thankful for Komatsu to once again taking on gold sponsorship of this leading industry event. Again, we welcome the gold media sponsorship

by Earthmovers & Excavators and Trade Earthmovers magazine.

“Associate sponsorships are a great way to increase your visibility, so if you would like to join our associate sponsors Norm Engineering, Pickles, Earthmoving Equipment Magazine, XCMG, What-If and Record TIME, contact us now.”

AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED

The dates for the 2023 National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo Friday 21-Sunday 23 April 2023.

To enquire or book to secure your exhibitor site contact the Expo Manager, Marti on 0411 648 465 or apply online at www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au

Attendees will be able to speak with the technical professionals who supply and support the equipment.

Exhibitors return year after year to participate in Diesel Dirt & Turf.

DRONES ARE BENEFITTING EARTHMOVING OPERATIONS

At CONEXPO-CON/AGG this coming March, hear from Quantum Land Design’s Zach Pieper about how earthmoving businesses can use drones as a tool in their operations.

Drones – the aerial eye of the jobsite – have become a very versatile tool for earthmoving operations. Among the benefits are increasing efficiency, productivity, and accuracy on jobsites. In addition, drones help reduce unplanned costs and rework throughout a project by providing a steady stream of jobsite progress data.

As drone technology evolves, the greater the return of investment in employing them Zach Pieper pointed out, who is Director of Operations and Co-Owner of Quantum Land Design – an industry leader in managing and preparing 3D data required for construction projects of any scale.

“That is why is it important for those in the construction industry, especially in earthmoving, to learn about using drones,” he said. “Drones are another tool contractors can put in their toolbox to make more efficient and better decisions. There are many situations where a contractor might need to keep track of how much earth is being moved, compare the current site to the planned site, and figure out how many yards of earth still to be moved and where that dirt must go. Drones can be a very cost-effective way to do that.

“Drones can also provide a very rich layer of data that can be added to your knowledge of a project and your ability to manage it properly.”

When it comes to drones, Pieper said there are two types of contractors.

“One group I call drone curious. They think drones are interesting and they need to be learning about them,” Pieper explained.

“The second group are those contractors that already have drones and feel they are not utilising them as well as they could be. Or they bought a drone for a single purpose, which it is serving well, and they want to get more use out of the information collected. Or they want to get ideas on how to better use their drones on jobsites.”

The How to Utilize Drones in Your Earthmoving Business education session at CONEXPO-CON/AGG will cover the

high-level basics of drones, including types of drones, applications, the kind of data you can get out of drones, and basic data collection procedures.

“The session applies to nearly any size contractor,” Pieper said. “It will be an information-dense way to learn how you can use drones to make better decisions with your contracting company and on each jobsite.

“It will be focused on applied technology. Everything in the education session will be information that any contractor can take back to their company or their jobsite and put it to work.”

Held every three years, CONEXPO-CON/ AGG is the must-attend event for construction industry professionals. The show features the latest equipment, products, services and technologies for the construction industry, as well as industry-leading education. The next CONEXPO-CON/AGG will be held March 14-18 in 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Get 40 per cent off your CONEXPO-CON/AGG badge through October 28 by registering at www.conexpoconagg.com using the code MEDIA40. That includes the All Access Passes, for access to all education sessions, including Pieper’s session on drones.

CCF VICTORIA SHOWS ONGOING SUPPORT FOR CIVIL INDUSTRY

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION AS A TRADE

On 19 August, the CCF attended the Infrastructure Jobs and Skills Roundtable hosted by Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.

CCF called for civil occupations to be formally classified as trades on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), a pre-requisite for being listed on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List and subsequent government funding under the $2.4 billion Federal Government Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program. CCF Victoria strongly supports and advocates for this.

The short-term reform will deliver an incentive for new students to enrol in civil apprenticeships, encourage existing workers to upskill and VET providers to train more personnel. It will also encourage employers to take on more apprentices, as they will qualify for financial assistance under the Federal Government’s $2.4 billion Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program.

ANZSCO underpins the existing apprenticeship system and occupational skills shortage methodologies. ANZSCO has not been updated for some time and is not representative of the occupational structure of the civil construction workforce. Everyone knows a plumber, carpenter, or electrician. But there is no equivalent trade or professional designation for a civil construction worker. Often workers in our industry are dubbed ‘labourers’ for lack of an appropriate label. However, civil construction workers are so much more. Proper recognition of the trade will provide a range of benefits, particularly in recruiting school leavers.

GET READY FOR THE FAIR JOBS CODE!

The Fair Jobs Code forms a key part of the Victorian Government’s procurement and grants framework and comes into full effect on 1 December. It requires suppliers and businesses applying for Victorian Government contracts or grants to demonstrate compliance with IR and OHS laws and to promote the Fair Jobs Code Standards, including secure work.

The Code introduces two new key requirements: a Fair Jobs Code

CCF Victoria held a mental health forum to conclude its Positive Plans, Positive Futures project.

Pre-Assessment Certificate and a Fair Jobs Code Plan.

A Fair Jobs Code Pre-Assessment Certificate must be held by businesses seeking state government contracts of $3 million or more, or business expansion grants of $500,000 or more.

For state government contracts of $20 million or more, businesses need a Fair Jobs Code Plan in addition to the Pre-Assessment Certificate.

Any subcontractors working on state government projects will also need a Pre-Assessment Certificate if the subcontract value exceeds $10 million.

We appreciate that our industry doesn’t want more cost and complexity to doing business, and some of the key concerns we’ve advanced regarding this code are that supply chain compliance puts Victorian small and medium businesses at a disadvantage, and the requirement to pre-assessment certificate is an additional burden on business.

Businesses can apply for pre-assessment now.

POSITIVE PLANS, POSITIVE FUTURES

On 15 September, CCF Victoria held a mental health forum in Geelong to conclude our Positive Plans, Positive Futures project – a prevention-focused mental health initiative supported by Work Safe’s WorkWell mental health improvement fund. Over the last two years, CCF Victoria has proudly delivered some great outcomes including three health and wellbeing summits attended by 500 people in the civil construction industry.

Thank you to our proud business partners Gallagher, Incolink and Meditac Australia for their continued support.

As well as important updates from WorkSafe on the Psychological Health and Safety Regulations, we heard from our founding partners Helen Christo from Rokon Pty Ltd, Terrence Breen from APS, and Amanda Cole from NVC Precast on a panel supported by Positive Plans, Positive Futures Project Leader, Adrian Panozzo.

We thank our panel for courageously and generously sharing their insights on taking a prevention-based approach for managing mental health risks and hazards. Our industry has a significant mental health problem; we can’t afford to be reactive. “Just make a start,” the panel encouraged. “The mental health and wellness of your people is always worth it.”

CCF Victoria will continue to work together with industry and our members to build the capabilities needed to create mentally healthy workplaces. We are here to support our members and industry and look forward to launching our own training offering very soon, with a framework to improving mental health in civil construction.

We anticipate launching this in late 2022, with details to be finalised soon. For more information or to get on the wait list, contact CCF Victoria.

To the 220+ people who attended Kardinia Park Stadium Trust in Geelong, I congratulate them for demonstrating a shared commitment to creating cultures and behaviours that support psychologically safe workplaces in the Victorian civil construction industry. Thank you for being part of driving the important change needed to empower our people to live and work well.

The Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) is working hard to represent and support the civil industry. CCF Victoria CEO, Lisa Kinross, elaborates.

Catherine

King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.

TRANSPARENCY NEEDED AROUND PROJECT PIPELINES

The Federal Budget was released last month and a lot of business groups were reasonably supportive of it. However, Queensland had a significant amount of funding for infrastructure cancelled, delayed, or not confirmed.

The Rockhampton Ring Road had combined committed state and federal funding of $1.065 billion. The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads had already spent approximately $104 million to the end of the last financial year and even more this financial year. The procurement process had short-listed two consortiums, to a point where contracts were to be imminently awarded.

Cancelling or delaying projects at such a late stage is unforgivable. The number of resources, industry preparedness and money spent is now wasted. Both consortiums comprising of four contractors have already allocated project teams and forgone tendering other opportunities in anticipation of being awarded this project. The lack of opportunity will be arguably more costly than the huge cost of tendering to date.

These decisions can break the spirit of contractors and eats into the credibility of government.

There is an argument that the delay of projects in the current market will take pressure off supply chains, and it will be better served from a cost basis and supply chain basis if completed later. There was a comment that due to these factors, the Budget had been exceeded and indicated this was the reason for the delay.

Noble but incorrect. Inflationary pressures were a contributing factor, but the State Government’s own policies are a major contributor to cost increases. The Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPIC) was a key contributor. In addition, there was a requirement to meet a range of other State Procurement Policies which also contributed to cost increases.

State Government policies such as buying local, commitment to training, inclusion of Indigenous and other minority groups are positive policies, but they do come at a cost. Not supporting the project on a cost basis, is denying positive social outcomes for regional areas in addition to the amenity the infrastructure will provide.

If the BPIC was removed, then this would provide significant savings on the project. It is interesting that on Gold Coast light Rail

Stage 3A when the costs increased some 20 per cent due to the inclusion of BPIC, the Morrison Government supported the project by providing additional funding. Something the current Australian Government could not do for the Rockhampton Ring Road.

Whilst it is not unusual for project priorities to change, it is unusual to cancel a project on the eve of awarding it. It is important to provide as much certainty around the pipeline of projects as possible. Providing industry with transparency and surety into the future provides opportunity for the industry and regional areas to gear up in preparation for the projects to be delivered. This provides far better outcomes for asset owners and particularly government social objectives.

Other projects which had funding withdrawn in the recent Federal Budget include:

• Urannah Dam: $483 million of committed funds cancelled.

• Emu Swamp Dam: $126 million delayed or cancelled.

• Hughenden Irrigation Project: $1.0 million delayed or reconsidered.

• Hells Gate Dam: Cancelled – $5.4 billion of non-committed funding. Other projects at risk are the Beenleigh to Kuraby Faster Rail Project, and the Beerwah to Maroochydore Heavy Rail Extension. I expect clarity to be provided around these projects very soon.

A cynic would observe the flow of funds from Queensland to Victoria on the eve of a Victorian State election is pork barrelling. Maybe this is why the Queensland Premier is confident that future Budgets would be favourable to Queensland. After all, there is a Queensland State Election in 2024.

Another concern is there has been no mention of funding for Olympic Games infrastructure. This could be due to the lack of certainty around the actual infrastructure to be built or both governments can’t agree on the split and quantum of funding. Either scenario is concerning, as the time frame to deliver this infrastructure is reducing.

I have written previously that the next Queensland State Election will be fought on issues such as health, crime, integrity and the delivery of the Olympic Games. The Federal Budget has strengthened my position that the Olympic Games delivery will be front and centre of the campaign.

On the Federal Budget’s release recently, the Civil Contractors Federation Queensland reports that the state had a significant amount of infrastructure funding left in the lurch.

Much of the funding for Queensland infrastructure projects has been cancelled or delayed by the Federal Government.

ALLIED EARTHMOVERS ASSOCIATION

As we wrap up the past year, it’s a good time to reflect on the changes that have occurred in both our personal and business life. At the end of 2022, we are all looking forward to a “better” year than the two previous Covid years. While owner operators were busy enough during that stressful time, over the past year they have had too much work to juggle. On a personal level, social engagements have been full on, with every venue packed and requiring booking well in advance. It was never that busy before Covid struck! It seems that we are making up for lost time, both workwise and socially. And yet Covid is well and truly still out there. It keeps giving us a reminder that this way of life is precarious and to make the most of it.

Traditionally, here at Allied Earthmovers, we get many calls regarding membership when times are tough and work is scarce. However, being over-booked during busy times can also be a stressful period. That’s where our WorkShare system comes in. If one of our members has a customer they can’t service, then they can give the Association office a call to find another member that may be able to take on the job in their place. They can do this with the peace of mind knowing that fellow members have signed, and are expected to comply with, our Code of Ethics. This Code states that a “member will, whenever work is shared, give priority to members, look after another’s work as my own, neither charge nor accept commissions, and never seek to poach a member’s customer.”

So whether you have work shortage or work overload, Allied Earthmovers Association can assist you.

This past year, Allied Earthmovers Association meetings have been in full swing with our last

Trade Night for the year being hosted by Rocco, Mark and the team at STM Trucks and Machinery at Smeaton Grange. They very generously provided a feast of burgers while members were able to inspect closely the machines on display. Mark spoke about STM’s latest product, the D’Avino dump trucks. Members also took home a bag full of goodies.

Members were also reminded of our upcoming Charity Field Day for the Camden Men’s Shed. As more details are available, we will be asking members and sponsors to make themselves and their equipment available for one day. More to come on that as information comes to hand.

Insurance, as usual, has been a major issue with owners of earthmoving equipment

including trucks. We have found that, in most cases, Sarah from AEI Transport Insurance Brokers has been able to provide comprehensive cover at the right price. If you are an owner operator and would like to question your current insurance cover, give us a call at Allied Earthmovers and we’ll guide you in the right direction.

We look forward to holding our next Trade Night at Toyota Material Handling and invite any owner operators to come along and see how we operate. We’re not for everyone, but you won’t know until you try.

Call (02) 4732 5233 or 0416 110 024 for enquiries.

Ann Callaghan General Manager

Golden Bucket Allied Earthmovers Association

The Allied Earthmovers Association reflects on the past year and looks forward to assisting businesses further in 2023, Manager Ann Callaghan writes.

Whether short or overloaded with work, Allied Earthmovers Association can assist.

The Association looks forward to holding its next Trade Night at Toyota Material Handling.

Allied Earthmovers Association meetings have been in full swing in the past year.

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