In this issue’s cover story we speak with Gold Coast’s Scenic Rim Landscaping Supplies about the purchase of a new Takeuchi TB217R excavator from Toyota Material Handling Australia 10
News
In the news, the Women in Industry Award winners have been announced, LiuGong reveals new dealers, JMAC supports new women’s shed, Quentin and Kylie Birt donate $40 million to MND, plus more of the latest
Event news
Gorman
Editorial & Design
Editor Cat FitzJohns
catherine.fitzjohns@primecreative.com.au
Journalist Jackson Haddad jackson.haddad@primecreative.com.au
Contributors
Damian Long, Cathryn Greville, Trevor Schwenke
Managing Editor Eugene Du y
Art Director/Design Daz Woolley
Cover Image TMHA
to eight-tonne
Industry opinion
CCF QLD CEO Damian Long says Queensland’s Budget is a win for the state’s infrastructure
WorldSkills CEO Trevor Schwenke celebrates Australia’s medals in the Global Skills Challenge
CEO Cathryn Greville discusses how
Mid-year round-up
This issue is bursting with new machinery releases, expert testimonials and highlights from two recent industry events
Welcome to the July issue of Earthmovers & Excavators !
On our cover we have a Takeuchi TB217R excavator from Toyota Material Handling Australia, which has proven to be a compact yet powerful addition to the eet of Gold Coast landscape contractor Chris Larrescy. From page 10 read about how the 1.7-tonne mini excavator has made Takeuchi his brand of choice.
In our feature on page 12 we speak with the winning team at CJD Equipment who are on the way to the nal of the 2026 Volvo Construction Equipment Masters competition. Taking place in September at Volvo CE HQ in Sweden, the pressure is on to compete against some the best technicians in the world.
Moving from black and yellow to green, our feature starting page 15 sees Italian manufacturer Merlo outline its extensive lineup of telehandlers and material handling solutions, while from page 18 we take a look at the latest addition to the CASE loader family – the mid-weight 651G+. With a new cab design and a good balance between power,
size and comfort there are plenty of new features to check out.
As CEA begins supplying its new SANY o ering to customers, from page 22 we focus on the 36tonne SY365H excavator and how CEA is adapting the machine to its Australian customers.
For those looking for a new grader, Hastings Deering has been taking the new Cat next generation 140 motor grader on a roadshow across Queensland and the Northern Territory to showcase its upgraded design and new technology. Read all about it from page 27.
O ering practical solutions across construction, landscaping and agriculture, United Heavy Industries understands that di erent projects have di erent power and performance requirements. From page 30 read more on how UHI’s ve-tonne to eight-tonne range is designed to meet your needs.
From page 33 we speak with Victorian civil contractor PAD Civil on how Komatsu machinery and digital construction tech is helping it deliver safer, smarter and more
On page 33 find out how Victoria’s PAD Civil is benefitting from Komatsu technology. Image: Komatsu
e cient infrastructure delivery across the state, while from page 36 we nd out how Caterpillar customer value agreements have been tailor made to ensure Cat machinery owners have the backup they need to prevent unnecessary downtime.
From Victoria we turn to WA, where All Excavator Hire’s growing eet of LiuGong wheel loaders is a key part of its mineral sands expansion. Read more from page 39.
In recent event news, we had boots on the ground at the Perth Tradie Expo and Toowoomba’s FarmFest. Check out highlights of the shows from page 42.
For women looking to get into trades, it can be a challenging path to navigate. In our feature starting page 49 we speak with NAWIC Male Ally Award winner Nigel Gorman on his work with the Aussie Painters Network where he aims to generate a supportive network for those looking to join the industry.
All of this is in addition to industry opinion from CCF QLD, NAWIC and WorldSkills Australia, plus the latest news from the Australian construction industry.
Happy reading!
Cat FitzJohns Editor, Earthmovers & Excavators
AWARDS
Winners announced
The 2026 Women in Industry Awards took place in June
Industry excellence was on display as Australia’s leading women took centre stage at the 2026 Women in Industry Awards.
Following a record number of nominations and attendance of more than 350 industry professionals, supporters, and guests at the gala dinner, the 2026 Awards marked the largest event to date.
“The quality of nominations received this year has once again been exceptional,” PCM head of events marketing Molly Hancock says.
“Every nominee and nalist has demonstrated excellence in their eld, a commitment to delivering outstanding results, and a determination to make a positive di erence within their organisation, industry and community.”
The 2026 Awards featured 15 categories celebrating outstanding achievement across leadership,
DEALER
emerging talent, workplace safety, and excellence in a diverse range of industries. This year’s program introduced four new award categories including Women in Leadership, Marketer of the Year, Excellence in Health and Medicine, and Tradeswoman of the Year.
The evening culminated with the presentation of the program’s
highest honour, the Woman of the Year Award, which is chosen from the winners of the 15 nominated award categories. Taking home the premier award this year was Brooke Adamson from Newmont.
Head to the website to see learn more about the awards womeninindustry.com.au
The 2026 Women in Industry Awards winners:
• Excellence in Construction – Alysse Reedy, Fulton Hogan Construction
• Tradeswoman of the Year – Shannen Je ery, Newmont
• Women in Leadership – Karlie Zec, Tiny Tins
• Excellence in Engineering – Hoda Ehsani, Fortescue
• Mentor of the Year – Laura Canning, Komatsu
• Excellence in Transport – True Ross, Ross Transport
• Excellence in Mining – Brooke Adamson, Newmont
• Industry Advocacy Award – Tatiana Delendik, Grundfos
• Rising Star of the Year – 30 years and under – Caitlin Barlow, JATEC Transport
• Business Development Success of the Year – Yuan Yuan, Sykes Group
• Excellence in Health and Medicine – Dr Sarah Crowe, OOXii
• Marketer of the Year – Caroline Luczynski, SMEC
• Excellence in Energy – Louise Bishop, Zinfra Operations
• Excellence in Manufacturing – Charline Siccardi, Argon & Co
• Safety Advocacy Award – Sarah Barnbrook, Away from Keyboard Inc
LiuGong additions
LiuGong is continuing to expand its national network with two new dealers
LiuGong has added two new dealers to its network, serving northern Queensland: Tracpower and GR8 Northern Ag Sales.
Tracpower has been operating as agricultural dealership since
2001, with branches in both Brandon and Townsville.
Backed by industry expertise and a commitment to customer service, the Tracpower team is now ready to help its customers find the right
LiuGong machine for their operations.
“We strive to provide our customers with the best of the best,” Tracpower says of the appointment.
“We know what the right product does for our customers, providing them with information or to help with getting the perfect unit that will su ice in getting the jobs done.”
GR8 Northern Ag Sales covers North Queensland and The Cape with dealerships in Cairns and Tully.
“LiuGong has been manufacturing wheel loaders since 1966 and has enhanced its reputation to be known as one of the highest-volume wheel loader manufacturers in the world,”
Gr8 Northern Ag says.
Gr8 Norther Ag is now o ering excavators from 1.7-tonne to 122-tonne, skid steers, track loaders, wheel loaders, forklifts, graders, dozers and rollers.
,
Tracpower will now o er LiuGong’s machinery. Image: LiuGong
Excellence in Construction winner Alysse Reedy – Fulton Hogan. Image: PCM
The Carina Women’s Shed will provide a safe and welcoming space for women of all backgrounds to learn, create and connect.
Image: BMD Group
WOMEN IN INDUSTRY
Women’s shed
JMac is giving back to local communities with its support of initiatives like the Carina Women’s Shed in Queensland
BMD Group company JMac is supporting the establishment of a Women’s Shed in Carina, Queensland, by contributing inkind project management advice to help progress a community-led project three years in the making.
The Carina Women’s Shed will provide a safe and welcoming space for women of all backgrounds to learn, create and connect. From practical workshops to social activities, the shed is expected to become a vibrant hub for connection, wellbeing and shared learning in the Carina region.
JMac general manager Jason Lindsay says the project reflects JMac’s commitment to giving back to local communities.
“The Carina Women’s Shed project shows what can be achieved when community unites behind a shared vision,” he says.
“At JMac, we are proud to power projects that create lasting community benefit, particularly initiatives that form inclusive spaces and foster meaningful social connection.
“Our role has been to contribute advice and project management support to help the committee and project partners bring this important community facility closer to reality.”
Giving to a cause
Quentin and Kylie Birt make $40 million donation to MND research
Quentin and Kylie Birt, the owners of Queensland civil construction business QH&M Birt, have donated $40 million to motor neuron disease (MND) research.
Inspired by the advocacy work undertaken by Neale Daniher, who su ered from MND and passed in May, the Birts say that Daniher “had the guts” to stand up for an important cause and they would like to do the same.
“He’s one extraordinary Australian; it’s a true story,” they said to Channel 7 at the AFL Big Freeze match that took place on June 8.
“He just did his thing better than all of us put together, that’s all.”
They said that they hoped that their massive donation will help aid FightMND’s e orts to nd a cure for the disease.
Big Freeze
The Big Freeze match is held each year to raise funds and awareness of MND, organised by charity FightMND. It was inspired by the Ice Bucket Challenge that went viral on social media.
FightMND was co-founded in 2014 by Neale Daniher, who played for AFL team Essendon between 1979 and 1990 before moving into coaching. He was diagnosed with MND in 2013 and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2016 for his e orts in raising awareness of MND. He was then promoted to O cer of the Order of Australia in 2021 and named Australian of the Year in 2025.
Quentin Birt at the delivery of his 100th scraper in 2021. Image: Hastings Deering
QH&M Birt
Quentin Birt started his civil construction business QH&M Birt in 1973 with “a station wagon, a wheelbarrow and a shovel” and a contract for a carpark in Moorooka for Australia Post. Now the business operates across Australia on large Tier 1 projects in civil construction and mining.
Earthmovers & Excavators spoke with Quentin in 2021 as the business celebrated the arrival of its 100th scraper, which was delivered by Hastings Deering with a bespoke wrap.
The Herald Sun reported that the couple initially were planning on donating $10 million to FightMND but decided to increase their donation to $40 million a er attending the Big Freeze event.
This follows a $57 million donation to the Redtails Pinktails Right Tracks Foundation in Central Australia, which uses football to help support young people with leadership skills and employment pathways.
For more information on FightMND, visit: fightmnd.org.au
For more information on the Redtails Pinktails Right Tracks Foundation visit: redtailspinktailsfoundation.org
Growing business
A Queensland landscaping supply business has expanded its business o ering with a new Takeuchi TB217R excavator from Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA)
Scenic Rim Landscaping Supplies, based in the Gold Coast hinterland, sells a broad range of soils, sands, quarry materials and concrete blocks to assist with landscaping projects large and small, while also providing mini excavator hire services.
The business was bought by owner Chris Larrescy in 2022, and included in the purchase was a 1.7-tonne mini excavator.
With roughly 2,500 hours of use, Larrescy wanted to add a new excavator to his eet with the aim of eventually replacing the older unit – eventually settling on the Takeuchi TB217R. This was due in part to his family’s familiarity with TMHA Brisbane area sales manager Mick Brumm.
“I know dad’s bought a machine or two o Mick, so I thought, I’ll give Toyota a go,” Larrescy says.
“All in all, I am very happy with the machine.”
Compact power
The Takeuchi is used primarily for short-term hire by other businesses and tradespeople, clearing and levelling earth to make room for storage tanks, tiling and landscaping.
Being used potentially by multiple businesses every week, the Takeuchi unit needs to be both easy to operate and reliable, facing di erent usage cases every day.
Larrescy says customers have been impressed with the performance of the Takeuchi excavator, providing a level of power and capability that contradicts its compact size.
“They all love the tilt hitch, that’s a winner for them,” he says.
“They reckon it’s got a bit more power, they’re all happy with it.
“As much as the breakout force is reduced with the tiltage, on a little machine like that the extra weight on the end helps to drive it into the ground.”
For Larrescy, the exceptional build quality of the Takeuchi unit was a major factor in its purchase, along with the competitive nancing provided by TMHA – a critical consideration for any small business.
“Everyone that’s looked at it said they’re on par, if not better built, than other machines,” he says.
The compact dimensions and 1,680kg weight of the Takeuchi TB217R means that it is easy to transport, which is an important feature for a business hiring out its machines.
Larrescy had a custom 2.8-tonne capacity trailer built, which allows him to safely and securely transport the excavator from site to site, and back to Scenic Rim Landscaping Supplies’ home base.
Its light weight allows the machine to be safely towed by vehicles with a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity such as 4x4 pick-ups and SUVs.
Images:
TMHA
Scenic Rim Landscaping Supplies owner
Chris Larrescy purchased the Takeuchi TB217R to replace an older excavator
The Takeuchi is used primarily for short-term hire purposes by other businesses and tradespeople
“We opted to put that on a 2.8-tonne payload trailer, because I wanted the augers attached to the trailer, and once you throw the set of buckets and the augers on it you need to upgrade from the 2.2 to the 2.8 capacity,” Larrescy says.
“The tiltage was heavier again, but everything on there would be under 2.5 tonnes.”
Adding to the fleet
The performance of his new Takeuchi machine has convinced Larrescy to look at expanding his range of mini excavators by adding a 2.5-tonne model to his hire eet.
He is working with Brumm on getting a price for a larger unit, with plans to sell the older excavator that came with the business.
“I’m getting a price on the machine the next size up,” Larrescy says.
“That was my plan all along – start with another 1.7-tonne unit, upgrade to a 2.5-tonne machine and sell the old one.”
The Takeuchi TB217R can be transported easily from site to site
Another standout for Larrescy in choosing TMHA was the work-ready state of his Takeuchi, which Brumm and his team ensured was ready to go to work as soon as it arrived.
“I like the fact that machine came out ready to go, I didn’t have to t dogs and chains and gure out ways to tie it down – Mick sorted all of that,” Larrescy says.
“It was really good. Sometimes when you buy something, you’ve got to x this and sort that. It just came ready to go, which I was very surprised and happy with.”
For more information on the Takeuchi TB217R excavator, visit toyotatakeuchi.com.au or freecall 1800 425 438.
Success leads to Sweden
CJD Equipment has secured a place in the Volvo CE Masters 2026 World Final, with a team of technicians heading to Volvo CE HQ in Sweden
CJD Equipment has beaten o intense competition to move through to the Volvo CE Masters 2026 World Final.
The team – made up of technicians Sam Newton, Daniel He ernan and Carl Porter, and spare parts specialist Ethan Cavallaro and led by training and safety manager Alvin Roger DuPont – claimed victory at the Volvo CE Masters 2026 Region International Final in Casablanca, Morocco and will head to the world nal this September in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
The competition pitches teams from across Volvo CE’s International dealer network against each other in an event designed to test technical competence and teamwork.
The regional competition saw participants work on practical and theoretical tasks, including machine diagnostics, troubleshooting, product knowledge and teamwork.
The CJD Equipment team members say that the competition was a great way for them to test their skills against other technicians from Volvo CE dealerships around the world.
“This was the highlight of my career to date,” Newton says.
“It was a very proud moment for myself and my family as my father is also a mechanic who worked for a Volvo/Mitsubishi car dealership for many years.
“The gala dinner was a night to remember and I’m proud of the whole team for getting through to the nal.”
He ernan says the regional nal in Morocco was a valuable experience,
being able to compete against the best teams internationally as well as be pushed to complete new challenges.
“One of the new model machines we had never worked on before,” he says.
“New machines have di erent ways of diagnosing things, as they have di erent systems, components and wiring. So, we are always learning new ways of how to use, diagnose, and rectify these systems. We never stop learning.”
Porter says a EC260FL3 that had a slow boom fault proved a signi cant test for the team.
“We hadn’t had much to do with these control valves so it was di cult to formulate a diagnosis strategy for this fault, but eventually we did get close to solving the fault as a team,” he says.
“During the rst few minutes of each stage we allocated roles to each member of the team, which
CJD Equipment’s team is heading to the final in September
helped us all stay on track, along with good communication through the diagnosis process.
“Communication and teamwork proved the most valuable tools we had as we all have di erent skillsets, so we tried to play to those.”
DuPont says that the Masters competition is a fantastic opportunity for technicians to showcase their skills and challenge themselves professionally.
“We are incredibly happy to be one of the teams quali ed for the world nal,” DuPont says.
“We all want to understand our strengths and continue improving, because it helps us develop further and strengthen the areas where we can become even better.”
Looking ahead to the nal, the team says having a cool head and a strong plan for each event will be key to their approach.
“I’m looking forward to talking with di erent teams from around the world and overcoming more challenges as a team,” Porter says.
“The lesson I’ll take from Casablanca is to try and stay calm and don’t let the pressure get to me.”
The previous world nal in 2024 was won by Team Funky Mechanics from KSS Korea.
In 2026, close to 3,000 individuals participated in the competition. The world nal takes place in September 2026 at the Volvo CE Customer Center in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
More info on CJD Equipment, visit: www.cjd.com.au
Images: Volvo CE
Nearly 3,000 people from around the world participated in this year’s Volvo CE Masters competition
YOU DESERVE A PLAN TO PROTECT THEM ALL.
Extended reach
Merlo o ers a range of innovative telehandler solutions designed for earthmoving and construction sites
Merlo is bringing precision European manufacturing to Australia with its extensive lineup of telehandlers and material handling solutions
As demand grows for versatile li ing and material handling solutions, more contractors, operators and hire companies are turning to Italian manufacturer Merlo for its renowned telehandlers.
The manufacturer’s global reputation has been shaped by its ongoing commitment to engineering excellence, advanced technology and operator safety, which has been the case since its establishment in 1964.
Since then, Merlo has played a major role in advancing telehandler technology and introducing industry-leading features such as hydrostatic transmission, advanced load management systems and cab suspension.
With the signature Merlo green colour scheme, the manufacturer’s telehandlers are hard to miss across earthmoving and construction sites, where they provide both the li ing capabilities of a forkli with the extended reach of a crane.
This versatility allows them to be used for high-reach li ing, material handling, as well as loading and unloading.
Additionally, Merlo’s telehandlers have found success in the agricultural industry, where they are
used for stacking hay bales, loading trucks, and hauling produce.
Local lineup
Merlo Group Australia, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Merlo S.p.A Group, has been providing sales, support and service to cater to the speci c requirements of the local market for more than 20 years.
A range of innovative telehandler solutions and equipment is o ered, all serving varying purposes, such as the TurboFarmer – TF Series.
While the range is designed
speci cally for agricultural operations, the li ing capacity, operator comfort and attachment versatility provided has increasingly seen the models used across civil infrastructure projects.
One of the key models suited to the earthmoving industry is the TF42.7 with a 4,050kg load capacity and 7m li height. This all-round telehandler is ideal for tight jobsites where space is limited, while the hydrostatic transmission provides smooth machine control and precision handling – helping operators safely
Merlo’s telehandlers provide the lifting capabilities of a forklift with the extended reach of a crane
Images:
Merlo
move materials around busy worksites with ease.
Another popular machine is the TF50.8, which can handle loads up to ve tonnes and li to a height of 7.9m. It is built for heavierduty construction and quarry applications. The robust chassis and boom design provide stability when li ing heavier loads, while Merlo’s advanced load management systems enhance operator con dence and site safety.
Higher li ing capacities and greater reach is provided with the Panoramic – P Series – telehandlers, which are designed for construction, industrial and material handling applications.
The P40.17 is key for many jobsites, allowing operators to safely position materials weighing up to four tonnes to a height of 16.6m without the need for cranes or multiple machines. Its long boom reach, stabiliser system and panoramic cab visibility also can improve productivity and operator awareness – and therefore safety –on complex jobsites.
On the other hand, the P72.10 is ideal for handling oversized or heavy construction materials with a load capacity of 7.2 tonnes and a 9.2m li height. Merlo’s boom suspension technology helps with load stability and operator comfort across uneven terrain.
Merlo’s Roto Series models provide 360-degree turret rotation,
e ectively combining the bene ts of a telehandler and crane in one machine. This reduces the need for constant repositioning on con ned sites and allows operators to li and place materials more e ciently in hard-to-access areas.
An extensive attachment range – including buckets, jibs, winches, hooks and work platforms – is also covered by Merlo, allowing operators to adapt a single telehandler across multiple jobsite applications, maximising machine utilisation and e ciency.
Merlo’s Tac-Lock hydraulic attachment locking system makes this easy by enabling the operator to change attachments from inside the cab, both reducing downtime and improving productivity.
More to o er
While Merlo is renowned for being a telehandler specialist, what might be lesser known is that it
also manufactures a range of tracked carriers and site dumpers for earthmoving applications.
The Cingo tracked carriers –o ering load capacities from 500kg to 800kg – are designed for di cult terrain and restricted-access projects where traditional wheeled machines may struggle.
Low ground pressure tracks provide greater traction on muddy, steep, or unstable surfaces, while compact dimensions and remotecontrol operation on selected models improve safety and accessibility in challenging work environments.
This makes the compact machines well-suited to moving material around sites with steep terrain, uneven ground and con ned work areas, where larger equipment may not be able to access.
Merlo’s sole dump truck model, the 8.1-tonne DM9, is designed to deliver the manoeuvrability of a compact machine while incorporating the advanced features typically found on a much larger piece of equipment – making it ideal for both the civil construction and rental markets.
It has a maximum load capacity of nine tonnes, boasts a Deutz TCD3.6 engine which produces 100hp (74kW) and has a top speed of 40km/h.
Unlike many traditional dumpers which use mechanical transmissions, the DM9 features a hydrostatic drive system, o ering smooth acceleration and braking, as well as improved safety on uneven terrain. For
Merlo Group Australia celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025
The Cingo tracked carriers are designed for di icult terrain and restricted-access projects
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And right now, there’s never been a better time to buy a new Takeuchi or Huski with finance from just 2.99%* across a great range of Takeuchi and Huski products. To dig out a great deal contact Toyota Material Handling today.
*Finance offer is based on a chattel mortgage on 12, 24 or 36 month term with no balloon, repayments made monthly in advance, minimum upfront deposit equivalent to 10% of the purchase price including GST. 3.99% interest rate on new Takeuchi excavators and tracked dump trucks. 2.99% interest rate on new Takeuchi tracked loaders and Huski skid steer loaders. Accessories included. Loan structures outside of the above, may attract other interest rates. Credit provided by TMHA Finance ABN 56 611 706 784 to approved Australian business applicants only (GST registered). Offer valid on orders from 01/07/2026 to 30/11/2026 while stock lasts. Order must be placed and finance must be approved by 30/11/2026. Settlement and equipment delivered before 31/01/2027. Toyota Material Handling Australia Pty Limited and, or TMHA Finance reserves the right to change, extend or withdraw any offer at any time. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.
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1800 425 438
Middle ground
CASE has expanded its loader line-up with the latest G Series model – the 651G+
There is a reason the mid-size wheel loader category continues to gain traction across construction, agriculture and rental eets. Versatility sells.
Big enough to move serious material, compact enough to stay agile on tighter sites and simple enough to appeal to operators of varying experience levels, this segment has become a sweet spot for many businesses.
CASE Construction Equipment is now stepping rmly into that space with the introduction of the 651G+ – a new machine size for the brand and the latest evolution of its G Series platform.
Handling the load
Positioned between compact productivity and larger-scale capability, the 651G+ brings a fresh option to Australian operators looking for a loader that can comfortably undertake stockpiling, truck loading, yard work and general
earthmoving without stepping into heavier territory.
CASE says the draw is the balance between size, power and comfort.
“The new 651 sits between the 621 and 721 but with the power and bucket capacity of a 721,” a CASE spokesperson says.
“Because of that, the 651G sits in a good position for customers who need more capability than a smaller loader but still want a machine that is easy to operate and versatile.
“The improved cab layout, ergonomic controls, strong hydraulic performance and overall productivity features will be key selling points. Maintenance access and simplicity are also at the forefront in CASE wheel loader design.”
Powering the machine is the FPT F4HGE613H 6.7-litre Stage V engine, delivering 128kW (172hp) gross power at 1,800 rpm.
It is also expected to nd a strong audience among rental businesses and farming operations, where ease of use, operator comfort and versatility o en rank just as highly as outright performance.
Images: CASE
The new model can include automation control for Auto Dig, Auto Dump and Auto Metering operator-assist functions
The 651G+ is a new mid-weight model joining the G Series
Feature focus
The arrival of the 651G+ marks the continued rollout of CASE’s new G+ Series – an update to the existing G Series wheel loader line that focuses heavily on automation, operator experience and smarter machine management.
“Dealer feedback has been positive so far, especially when comparing the 651G+ to the 621G,” CASE says.
“The improvements are immediately noticeable from a dealer perspective – the updated cab, improved comfort and visibility and better control layout.
“The availability of optional technology features give the 651G+ a more modern and re ned feel, while keeping the proven G Series loader platform.”
One of the standout options is
CASE’s new Click & Dig loader functionality, designed to simplify repetitive loading applications.
Click & Dig assists the operator through key parts of the loading cycle, helping reduce operator input and improve consistency in repetitive loading applications.
For operators spending long days in bulk material handling environments, this optional system is designed to reduce fatigue while delivering more consistent bucket loading performance.
Complementing this is another option – the new Automatic Dump Function. Once the boom reaches a pre-set height, the same trigger activates the bucket dump sequence, including a shake function and automatic return-to-dig positioning.
The result is a smoother, faster
loading cycle that reduces unnecessary operator inputs and helps improve cycle consistency across varying skill levels.
CASE has also introduced an optional Automatic Metering Function for precise material spreading applications.
When operating below a horizontal boom angle, the system activates a bucket shake feature that assists with even material distribution –particularly useful in agricultural or site preparation environments where controlled placement matters.
“The market is moving more toward technology and automation, so it is a positive that the 651G has these automated functions available as an option,” CASE says.
“Features such as auto-dig, autodump and auto-metering will not
The CASE G+ Series cab features operator-focused comfort, ergonomic controls, touchscreen display and intuitive operation
The 651G+ has been designed for stockpiling, truck loading, yard work and general earthmoving
be required by every customer, but for those doing repetitive loading or production work, they can help reduce operator fatigue, improve consistency and make the machine easier to operate without making it overly complicated.”
In the cab
Importantly, CASE has not focused solely on automation.
The G+ update places signi cant emphasis on operator comfort and usability inside the cab.
The new ROPS/FOPS Level 2 certi ed cabin has been designed around visibility, accessibility and reduced fatigue, with a seatmounted console and con gurable controls allowing operators to tailor frequently used functions directly through the touchscreen display.
The touchscreen itself acts as the central hub for machine settings and operational information, while optional payload weighing
technology allows operators to track bucket loads and generate job data directly through MYCASEConstruction telematics.
Optional tyre pressure monitoring can also be accessed through the display, helping operators manage tyre wear and maintain optimal e ciency.
Visibility remains another key focus. A one-piece windscreen, wide-angle rear-view camera and high-e ciency LED lighting package all contribute to improved site awareness, while follow-me-home lighting functionality adds an extra layer of practicality for early morning starts and late nishes.
With XT parallel loader linkage, the 651G+ is also well suited to pallet fork and material handling applications where load stability through the life cycle is important.
That capability, combined with the machine’s approachable size and new automation features, positions
it as a strong all-rounder for operators wanting productivity without unnecessary complexity.
Versatile addition
The new model also helps round out the broader CASE wheel loader o ering, which now spans from the 521G through to the 1121G across the 11–28 tonne class.
For CASE, the 651G+ is more than simply another wheel loader entering the market. It signals a deliberate push into one of the industry’s most competitive machine categories with a package that leans heavily into ease of operation, smart technology and everyday versatility, qualities increasingly driving purchasing decisions across construction, agriculture and rental sectors alike.
For more information, visit: www.casece.com/en-au/oceania
Making a mark
With CEA delivering the rst of its new SANY range to customers in recent months, we take a look at the 36-tonne SY365H excavator and how CEA is adapting the o ering to best suit Australian customers
For earthmoving and quarry operators looking for a machine that delivers high-volume output and an impressive li ing performance, the 36-tonne SANY SY365H is now available from CEA in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia.
With a 1.6 cubic metre bucket and 212kW (284hp) Isuzu engine, this is an excavator built to withstand heavy duty applications.
CEA national product manager Deon Cope says CEA is excited to o er the SANY range to its customers, particularly a model such as the SY365H that targets a key size component of the Australian market.
“SANY are a global leader in excavators and o er a signi cant range allowing us to branch out and talk to a more diverse customer base than ever before,” he says.
“They produce machines from one tonne all the way up to 600 tonnes for the mining market and we’re currently o ering the 1.6-tonne to 90-tonne models.
“The 14-tonne segment is the largest and that’s dominated by the zero tail machines, but the 35-tonne segment is the second largest class, and a very important sector for us.
“The 365H sits perfectly in that range. It’s well balanced and o ers more performance and stability in its class.”
With a conventional tail design that is optimised for stability and li ing performance, Cope says the SY365H is well suited to the use of tilt hitches as its dipper and boom con guration maintains stability when using that type of attachment.
With an Isuzu engine paired with a Kawasaki inline variable
displacement pump and main control valve, Cope says that this provides a high degree of control and accuracy, backed by CEA’s familiarity with Isuzu engines.
CEA has also worked with SANY to better align the SY365H with the needs of Australian customers.
“We’ve changed a number of things around proportional control and done some ne tuning of the hydraulics to better suit nal trim, particularly when using tilt hitches and batter buckets,” Cope says.
“We’ve opted for a bit more of a heavy-duty spec as well in regards to protection. We run operator protective guards on the cabin and front screen as standard. You’re getting quite a few additional speci cations for not much more cost, so we still retain that good value in the market.”
Images: CEA
The 36-tonne SANY SY365H is now available from CEA
Cope says that the metro market is a key focus for this model, with the SY365H ideal for general and civil earthworks and quarries, as well as applications in waste recycling and demolition.
An upgraded cab means operators bene t from a 10-inch colour touchscreen that includes high resolution images from the two standard cameras on board, pressure and volume settings for up to 10 auxiliary devices, automatic machine diagnostics and maintenance intervals.
“The SY365H runs the C11 cab, which includes ergonomic controls such as short European-style joysticks with proportional control,” Cope says.
“It’s a minimalist cab, which operators like.”
On the warranty side, Cope adds that CEA has worked with SANY to provide coverage that o ers greater bene ts to its customers.
“We’ve ne-tuned the warranties, adjusting the hours to better suit
the Australian market, and increasing the coverage to cover more components over a longer period of time,” Cope says.
“We’ve been speaking with existing SANY customers and they are very happy with the product, and the adjustments that we’ve brought in that they can make to their existing machines.
“We’ve got a few machines going out in South Australia very shortly, which will be one of our rst big orders and we’ve got plenty of people with genuine interest in the model range.”
For more information on the SANY range o ered by CEA, visit: cea.net.au/sany
This model comes with a 1.6 cubic metre bucket and is powered by a 212kW (284hp) Isuzu engine
CEA has worked with SANY to better align the SY365H with the needs of Australian customers
Hastings Deering showcased the upgraded performance and operator environment of the new Cat® next generation 140 motor grader on its roadshow across Queensland and the Northern Territory
The Cat 140 motor grader is renowned for being a versatile and jobsite-ready machine, but the next generation model takes this versatility to a new level.
Practical upgrades designed around the operator o er greater comfort, enhanced safety features with advanced new technology and lower maintenance costs through improved serviceability.
Reimagined e ciency, productivity and operator comfort –that’s the ethos behind the new Cat next generation 140 motor grader.
One of the most signi cant enhancements of this new model is the completely redesigned cabin, ensuring operators work in greater comfort across long shi s, which is especially important in jobs where precision is required.
In uenced by proven next gen models across various Cat product lines, the redesigned cabin helps to reduce operator fatigue with a larger working space, a new seat with multiple adjustments and an enhanced HVAC system.
Greater visibility and safety are also provided through larger windows and stronger all-round sightlines,
including to the grader’s tyres and the 14 (4.3m) mouldboard.
This is also strengthened by the standard rear camera or optional 360-degree all-round camera, as well as a 10-inch (25.4cm) touchscreen for other camera feeds and access to next generation technology functions, such as Cat Grade.
The option of all-wheel drive has been introduced on the next generation 140 model, including the 150 and 160 models to bring this feature across all platforms, enabling contractors, councils and large rental eets to tailor the grader to the application required.
Greater power is also o ered with a
Hastings Deering recently released the Cat next generation 140 motor grader
The option of all-wheel drive is o ered on this model
Larger windows and stronger all-round sightlines o er greater visibility and safety
174kW (233hp) engine, in comparison to the previous model’s 136kW (183hp) engine.
Hastings Deering earthmoving equipment product manager Greg Hewlett says the Cat next generation 140 is a whole new grader designed from the ground up.
“It brings a new chassis, which has the fuel tank built into it, and a new nine-speed transmission, including a nish grading gear,” he says.
“It has also the high performance circle on it, which utilises the same circle drive gearbox as the Cat model 14 motor grader and the slew ring of the Cat 320 excavator.
“We’ve brought these reliable components together as a robust circle drive to reduce maintenance and operating costs.”
The high-performance circle achieves this by eliminating the hours spent on the monthly planned maintenance required by conventional circles to replace wear strips and adjust circle shoes – enabling operators to increase machinery uptime.
When the time does come for service, Hewlett says the internal components of the next generation grader are easy to access.
“The park brake is now external on the transmission for easier maintenance, and the grader also has a swing out hydraulic reversing fan standard from the factory,” he says.
Customer roadshow
A er launching the Cat Next Generation 140 grader, Hastings Deering toured multiple locations across Queensland and the Northern Territory so potential customers could trial the machine in their own applications.
The roadshow involved live demonstrations of the new motor grader at various locations, including Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Emerald, Longreach, Toowoomba, Mt Isa, Cloncurry, Darwin and Alice Springs.
Hewlett says contractors and councils had the opportunity to sit in the grader’s cabin and operate the machine in their own environments, including quarries, construction sites and agricultural elds.
“Some of the key feedback we received was that the next generation Cat 140 provides increased power to the ground, smooth transmissions,
greater visibility from the operator’s perspective, and easier access for maintenance,” he says.
While the roadshow was put on for potential customers, it also allowed Hastings Deering to introduce the machine to its sta at its various branches, so they could familiarise themselves with all the new features.
“It wouldn’t have been possible to put on the roadshow without the support of Caterpillar, but also our local branches scattered all over Queensland and the Northern Territory,” Hewlett says.
“I also want to give a big shoutout to Plant Haul Heavy Haulage because we had one of their trucks with us the whole time to transport the motor grader.”
For more information on the Cat next generation 140 motor grader, visit hastingsdeering.com.au
Versatile diggers
UHI’s five to eight-tonne excavator range is designed to meet a range of Australian working environments
United Heavy Industries’ ve to eight-tonne excavator range features premium builds without a premium price tag, helping contractors tackle a range of jobs
No two projects are ever the same, which is why no single excavator will t every application.
It doesn’t matter if you’re operating in the construction, agriculture or landscaping sectors, di erent projects will require varying machine sizes, power levels and operating characteristics to solve jobsite challenges.
This means that selecting the right excavator is critical in maximising productivity, with United Heavy Industries (UHI) Machinery o ering practical solutions that have a strong balance of performance, reliability and value for money.
The manufacturer’s ve to eighttonne size range is designed to meet a range of Australian working environments, with three models providing the digging power and li ing capability operators expect in this class.
UHI Machinery business development manager Ken Low says this size class is perfect for both owner-operators and contractors looking to maximise their productivity and return on investment.
“UHI’s ve to eight-tonne excavator range features a heavy-duty construction suited to Australian conditions, e cient hydraulic systems that provide smooth and responsive operation, and operatorfocused cabins with comfort and visibility features that support productivity throughout long workdays,” he says.
“Additionally, these models provide strong versatility across varying applications, and excellent value proposition – allowing businesses to access modern equipment speci cations without the premium price tag o en associated with some established brands.”
Tight access projects
UHI Machinery’s 5.8-tonne SE58SR excavator combines compact dimensions and a zero tail-swing design, enabling operators to safely manoeuvre between con ned spaces while reducing the risk of damage when working near structures or tra c.
This makes it well-suited to urban construction and infrastructure projects, roadworks and utility
installations, and landscaping and commercial developments.
Despite its size, the SE58SR still provides the power required for these types of projects through a Kubota 47hp (35kW) engine, while the air-conditioned cabin provides a level of comfort which most smaller options lack.
Additionally, a generous attachment package comes as standard, including a 300mm, 450mm, and 1,200mm bucket, as well as a ripper, which can all be easily swapped to suit the task at hand through the hydraulic quick hitch.
All-rounder
The UME60 six-tonne excavator is a highly versatile machine for both owner-operators and growing contractors in a broad range of earthmoving works, as well as residential and commercial construction.
Low says this is because the sixtonne class is o en regarded as the ‘sweet spot’ for excavators, o ering an ideal balance between compact dimensions and job-site capability.
Images:
UHI
“For many Australian contractors, a six-tonne excavator is large enough to handle a broad range of excavation, trenching, landscaping and civil works, yet compact enough to access tighter sites where larger machines may struggle,” he says.
When working in con ned areas, the swing boom feature enables operators to pivot the excavator boom side-to-side, independently of the machine’s body without repositioning the entire machine.
An air-conditioned cabin on the UME60 also provides a comfortable environment, while the Yanmar 60hp (44kW) engine delivers more power than the SE58SR model.
“The UME60 delivers strong digging performance, e cient transport between projects, and lower operating costs compared to larger excavators,” Low says.
“This combination allows businesses to maximise machine utilisation across a wider range of projects, making the six-tonne category one of the most popular choices in the market.”
All of the attachments included with the SE58SR also come with the UME60, as well as a bonus 700mm bucket and hydraulic thumb.
Higher performance
For contractors seeking a machine that o ers greater performance capabilities, the 7.7-tonne SE75 excavator is the ideal solution.
With a Kubota 73hp (54.6 kW) engine, this machine is designed for high-production environments including large-scale earthmoving, civil infrastructure projects and even commercial construction.
Like all the models in this range, the air-conditioned cabin is a staple, but this model adds a tilt quick hitch and rubber pads. This is in addition to a 450mm, 600mm and 1,200mm bucket, as well as a hydraulic grab and ripper.
Low says the size, power and advanced features of the SE75 can help contractors increase their productivity, so they can complete projects more e ciently.
“Comfortable operator stations, intuitive controls and competitive ownership costs help businesses improve e ciency while maintaining pro tability,” Low says.
More than machines
UHI Machinery understands that equipment uptime is critical to
customers’ businesses, which is why a ersales support is a major focus.
The company works through its local dealer and support network to ensure customers have quick access to spare parts when needed, while its technical support teams are available to assist with troubleshooting, service requirements and maintenance guidance – helping customers minimise downtime and keep their machines operating e ciently.
“By combining local parts availability, responsive customer service and ongoing dealer support, UHI aims to provide owners with con dence that their equipment will be backed throughout its working life,” Low says.
With practical excavation solutions backed by nationwide support, UHI Machinery enables Australian contractors to choose equipment which matches their applications.
Low says feedback from customers on the ve to eight-tonne excavators has been very positive, particularly around value for money, ease of operation and overall productivity.
“Many operators appreciate that the machines deliver the performance and features expected from larger, more expensive brands while remaining cost-e ective to purchase and operate,” he says.
“For many businesses, the combination of performance, a ordability and a ersales support has been a key factor in their satisfaction with the range.”
For more information on UHI Machinery’s SE58SR, UME60 and SE75 excavators, visit unitedheavyindustries.com.au
The SE58SR 5.8-tonne excavator makes use of a zero tail-swing design
The UME60 six-tonne excavator o ers a balance between compact size and job-site capability
IMS DI ST RI BU TOR
for Aust ralia, Papua N ew Guine a and South East Asia
IMS have added the new BP1200-48TB track electric twin power blender to its impressive collection of ed hopper each five meters long holding and controlled by a PLC control and recording system that can be operated from an iPad or phone from its own Wi-Fi system from a loader or ll fitted with invertors offering variable speed to each feed hopper conveyor. The generator can be connected to mains power and could power an
New IMS-BP1200-9TB
Twin feed hopper blender with mixer and water adding system In stock for sale or hire
New IMS-PM1200-20TB Blender Pugmill
Has two 5m long feed hoppers holding 12m3 each with the option of hydraulic vibrating tipping grids, both feed hoppers have separated conveyors with belt scales. The PM1200-20TB is ideal for blending fines into road base with accurate percentages, as well as adding powders and two liquids controlled by a PLC control and recording system. Can produce up to 500 tonnes per hour and blend 10% powder with a 3m long pughead
A new IMS-PM1200-20TB Track Pugmill with twin 10m3 feed hoppers has just commissioned to Braeside Quarry on the New England Highway Warrick in Qld, the options t improved product management with the twin feed hoppers blending having two different products available ready for moisture contr system can be operated from an iPad in a loader managing all aspects of the operation including loading trucks and multiple trailers stopping when the required weight has been reached for each unit and
E ciency gains
PAD Civil has been purchasing Komatsu machinery for the past five years
Victorian contractor PAD Civil is bene tting from Komatsu technology with greater visibility of data and operator support driving e ciency on site
Victorian-based civil contractor PAD Civil is using Komatsu machinery and digital construction technology to deliver safer, smarter and more e cient civil infrastructure projects across the state.
Founded by managing director Ricky Thomson, PAD Civil has grown from its origins in commercial plumbing and drainage into a diversi ed civil construction contractor servicing both public and private sector clients.
Today, the company delivers projects across road infrastructure, utilities, renewable energy, sports and recreation facilities, health and education precincts, rail infrastructure, industrial developments and commercial construction sites.
With strong in-house capabilities across civil works, engineering drainage and underground services, PAD Civil provides clients with an integrated approach to project delivery, helping streamline construction programs while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and e ciency.
As the business has expanded, so too has its investment in technology and innovation. PAD Civil has been purchasing Komatsu machinery for the past ve years, working
closely with the team to integrate Intelligent Machine Control (iMC), Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance (3DMG) and Komatsu’s Smart Construction suite of digital solutions across its eet.
Thomson says the ability to access real-time project data and machine guidance technology is helping improve accuracy, productivity and visibility across the company’s civil projects.
“Digital visibility is critical on major civil projects because it gives us live data every day,” he says.
“Through drone survey support and live as-built data from the machines, we can track excavation quantities and project progress in real time. It gives our clients trust and con dence in what we’re doing on site.”
Accuracy is key
One of the biggest challenges on many civil projects is excavating accurately to design, particularly during deep drainage works and complex excavation activities.
“Trying to dig to a design model
Images:
Komatsu
Komatsu technology is helping PAD Civil improve accuracy, productivity and visibility across civil projects
The benefits of Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control have been particularly valuable for PAD Civil when operating in tight corridors and around live services
with deep drainage is always challenging, but with iMC and 3DMG we can see real data directly from the machine with the operator, without needing a spotter to check heights, helping us improve both safety and e ciency,” Thomson says.
“It’s also helping our crews complete deep excavations, battering and benching works with greater precision, while reducing the need for external survey support throughout the project lifecycle.”
Komatsu’s iMC technology is an integrated machine guidance and automation system that uses GPS, sensors and 3D design data to help operators work directly to the project design. By automating key machine functions and providing realtime positioning information, iMC improves accuracy, reduces rework and survey requirements, and helps increase productivity on site.
“Our crews are much more selfsu cient thanks to iMC because they’re not relying on external surveyors,” Thomson says.
“The information and guidance are
right there in the cab and available when they need it.”
The bene ts are particularly valuable when operating in tight corridors and around live services, where manoeuvring heavy machinery and li ing materials can present additional risks and challenges.
“Being able to see exactly where you are relative to the design and work con dently around existing services is a major advantage,” Thomson says.
“It helps improve safety while also keeping projects moving.”
Ongoing support
Beyond productivity and project delivery, PAD Civil’s investment in modern equipment and technology is also helping attract and retain skilled operators in an increasingly competitive labour market.
“Using state-of-the-art technology makes operators more comfortable and con dent, which ultimately makes them safer,” Thomson says.
“When you’ve got high-quality equipment and technology that genuinely helps people do their job better, good operators want to stay. That’s important for us as we continue to grow.”
The partnership extends well beyond the initial machine purchase, with ongoing a ersales and on-site support playing a critical role in maintaining uptime, productivity and project performance.
“The a ersales and on-site support make a massive di erence because it gives us con dence in our machines and we know the team is there to support us if any issues arise,” Thomson says.
“As we continue to work on Tier 1 infrastructure and construction projects, having a machinery partner that can provide both quality equipment and smart technology solutions is critical to our success.
“We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with Komatsu for many years to come.”
For more information, visit: www.komatsu.com/en-au
PAD Civil’s investment in modern equipment and technology is also helping attract and retain skilled operators
With Cat® Customer Value Agreements, machinery owners have the backup on hand to ensure that unexpected breakdowns won’t cause endless delays
In an industry where every hour of downtime carries a cost, predictability isn’t a luxury, it’s non-negotiable.
Caterpillar describes Customer Value Agreements (CVAs) as your open door to easy ownership. A exible way to manage your equipment and maintenance needs, giving you the con dence that your equipment will perform at its best on every job.
Whether you bought your Cat® machine from a dealer or reseller,
operate a single unit or a full eet, and prefer to handle your own maintenance or leave it to your dealer, there’s a Cat CVA designed to match the way you work.
Every new Cat CVA includes a Services Commitment, giving you con dence with promised next day availability on maintenance, wear and common repair parts¹, so you can keep your equipment working without delay. For CVAs
that include dealer-performed repairs, this commitment extends to common repairs being completed within two days or when scheduled². If either applicable commitment isn’t met, you’ll earn Cat Credits*, giving you greater certainty on parts, repairs and uptime.
For owners who maintain their own equipment
Prefer to handle servicing in-house? This option is built for you. You’ll receive planned maintenance parts delivered in kits timed to your service intervals, complete with step-bystep instructions tailored to your speci c equipment and schedule.
Add an annual inspection, an Equipment Protection Plan (EPP) on new machines, and ongoing uid health monitoring, and you’ve got a complete self-service package backed by Caterpillar’s expertise.
For complete, end-to-end support
Ready to hand over the spanner?
Add dealer labour to your CVA and let expert Cat technicians take care of everything. From inspections and S·O·S SM Fluid Analysis to ongoing Condition Monitoring and routine maintenance. It’s full peace of mind, delivered by the Cat dealer network that knows your equipment best.
Images: Caterpillar
Caterpillar describes Customer Value Agreements as your open door to easy ownership
Cat CVAs are designed to match your business
Cat CVAs help owners take a proactive approach to maintenance
Trust and reliability
Every CVA is backed by expert Cat dealer support and genuine Cat parts. VisionLink™ delivers real-time equipment insights; from operating hours, location, fuel usage and maintenance alerts straight to your ngertips. While uid health analysis tracks the condition of your oil, fuel and coolant to ag potential issues before they lead to unplanned downtime on site.
If you already own Cat equipment and want to safeguard critical components, CVAs for Ground Engaging Tools and Undercarriage,
give you targeted options to extend component life and reduce repair costs.
A proactive approach to ownership
Cat CVAs help owners take a proactive approach to maintenance, with a long-term plan that absorbs the unforeseen hiccups and reduces total cost of ownership across the machine’s lifespan.
Backed by Caterpillar’s expertise and genuine Cat parts, your machinery holds its value for longer
and stays more productive for your business. CVAs bring parts delivery, inspections and highly responsive service together to help maximise your uptime and your bottom line.
Find the Cat CVA that fits
No two operations are the same, and your CVA shouldn’t be either. Talk to your local Cat dealer today to build a CVA around your equipment, your workload and the way you like to work. Discover why more owners are choosing the certainty of a CVA to keep their business moving.
For more information, visit: http://www.cat.com/en_AU/ support/maintenance/customervalue-agreements/constructioncvas/services-commitment.html
1 Next Day response is by the end of the next business day after initial contact or the customer’s requested Order Need-By-Date.
2 Second Day response is provided by the end of the second business day from initial customer contact, with calls outside dealer business hours considered received at the start of the next business day.
* All Cat Customer Value Agreements (CVAs) include a maintenance parts availability commitment. CVAs with dealer labour include technician response and repair parts commitment. There can only be an unmet parts availability commitment or an unmet service commitment under a CVA, not both. Dealer participation may vary. Subject to restrictions and availability. See your participating Cat dealer for details.
CVAs bring parts delivery, inspections and highly responsive service together to help maximise your uptime and your bottom line
Delivering equipment solutions
All Excavator Hire’s growing eet of LiuGong wheel loaders is being driven by proven performance, value and a strong dealer backing from McIntosh & Son
For more than three decades, All Excavator Hire (AEH) has built a reputation as one of Western Australia’s most trusted machinery hire and transport providers.
Founded by Richard and Mary Chapman in 1990, the business has grown into a diverse enterprise supplying machinery services to mining, civil construction, infrastructure and rehabilitation projects across the state.
Today, their son Matt Chapman oversees the day-to-day operations alongside Paul Siggery, managing a eet that services projects stretching from Perth through to Shark Bay, Broome, and the Pilbara and Kimberley regions.
“We do machinery hire, wet and dry, and we also do heavy haulage,” Matt says.
With machinery operating across some of Western Australia’s most remote locations, reliability, productivity and strong dealer support are critical factors when investing in new equipment.
Diverse fleet
AEH operates a mixed eet comprising CASE, Hitachi, Volvo and LiuGong equipment.
While some projects specify particular brands as part of contract requirements, Matt says most purchasing decisions ultimately come down to two key considerations.
“Price and backup. Service and parts support are really important,” he says.
That focus on value and support has helped drive AEH’s growing eet of LiuGong wheel loaders, with the business currently operating a LiuGong 19-tonne 856H, a new LiuGong 33-tonne 890T loader and a recently purchased LiuGong 23-tonne 870T loader.
Going to work
AEH’s LiuGong 890T wheel loader is currently operating on a mineral sands project near Shark Bay.
A er just a month on site, the machine is approaching its rst
100-hour service interval and has already received positive feedback from operators and site personnel.
“It’s all been positive so far. They love it, and operators are happy,” Matt says.
The LiuGong 890T is currently loading road trains, but its workload is expected to increase signi cantly as a new processing plant comes online soon.
Once operational, the 890T loader will spend 10 to 12 hours per day feeding the processing plant. For AEH, the machine’s performance is proving exactly what they were looking for.
Why AEH chooses LiuGong
When comparing loader options, Matt and Richard carefully evaluated available machines before making their decision.
One of the standout advantages was the modern design and operatorfocused features o ered by the LiuGong range.
“We came and had a look. The LiuGong had more features in the
All Excavator Hire’s Paul Siggery (left) and Matt Chapman (right) alongside McIntosh & Son’s Angelo Francesca (centre)
Images:
McIntosh & Son
AEH’s new LiuGong 890T is already proving its worth on site near Shark Bay
cab and let’s be real, that’s what operators want, that little bit of comfort,” Matt says.
Proven performance
The purchase of the 890T was heavily in uenced by the performance of AEH’s existing LiuGong 856H wheel loader.
The machine has spent the past two years supporting Main Roads projects, loading road trains, handling gravel and contributing to shoulder widening works throughout Western Australia.
The loader has proven itself both within AEH’s own operations and through sub-hire arrangements to other contractors.
In fact, exposure to the 856H has helped introduce several businesses to the LiuGong brand.
According to McIntosh & Son Perth sales representative Angelo Francesca, AEH has played a signi cant role in showcasing LiuGong equipment to other contractors throughout the state.
“The more people see it working, the more it opens up the product,” Francesca says.
For Matt’s father, Richard, the 856H has been particularly impressive.
“Dad loves it and raves about it all the time,” Matt says.
That con dence ultimately made the decision to invest in the larger 890T easy.
Supporting mining and rehabilitation
Today, AEH has machines working across a wide range of projects throughout Western Australia, from mine rehabilitation works at Argyle, West Angelas, Paraburdoo and Brockman 4 to civil construction and infrastructure projects in Wyndham, Broome and Cape Leveque.
Some machines have remained on rehabilitation projects for more than two years, providing consistent utilisation. The spread of work highlights the versatility of the company’s eet and its ability to support clients across multiple industries and regions.
Dealer support
While machine performance remains important, Matt is clear about the value of strong dealer backing.
His long-standing relationship with McIntosh & Son has reinforced the importance of having a dealer willing to support customers when unexpected issues arise.
Matt says McIntosh & Son has helped minimise downtime in the past by supplying alternative equipment while replacement components were sourced for a machine.
“They backed it up,” Matt says.
“For a business operating across remote projects with strict deadlines, that level of support helps keep machines working and projects moving.”
More equipment on the horizon
With the Shark Bay mineral sands contract being extended, AEH has added the LiuGong 870T wheel loader to its eet.
Matt has strategically utilised a cross-hired machine to support current production requirements, and the new LiuGong 870T will replace the cross-hire.
Fitted with a quick hitch, the loader will provide exibility across multiple applications; loading, fork work and general material handling.
With positive operator feedback, strong performance and the backing of McIntosh & Son, the LiuGong 890T is already proving to be a valuable addition to the AEH eet.
For those interested in seeing any of the LiuGong range in action, please contact Angelo Francesca at McIntosh & Son Perth via a.francesca@mcson.com.au or 0459 275 494.
The machine has received positive feedback from operators and site personnel
Taking place June 12–14, Perth’s Ascot Racecourse was transformed into a machinery show for the Perth Tradie Expo
The 2026 Perth Tradie Expo has reinforced its position as Western Australia’s premier event for tradies, contractors and DIY enthusiasts.
The three-day expo brought together more than 200 brands showcasing the latest tools, machinery, earthmoving equipment, commercial vehicles, workwear, training services and
business solutions, while o ering visitors access to exclusive end-of- nancial-year deals and product demonstrations.
A major drawcard of the event was the opportunity for attendees to see emerging technologies and equipment rsthand, with exhibitors including leading suppliers of construction,
transport and earthmoving machinery solutions.
The event also featured recruitment and training opportunities, expert industry advice, and a community-focused atmosphere with free parking and gold-coin entry supporting charity.
Here is a photo gallery of the highlights of the show.
Images: PCM
The Alemlube dispay included Rewinda hose reels and assorted fuel pumps
ASV Sales and Service has partnered with Wacker Neuson to distribute its machinery in Western Australia
WesTrac account manager Ben Andrich showing o a Cat 226B3 skid steer loader
Repco commercial/industrial BDM Wayne Mollenoyux (left) and customer development manager Teagan Stareczek
Develon showcased a range of tracked and wheeled excavators
Total Rockbreaking Solutions parts and tools coordinator Brett Alison (left) with a Rammer rockbreaker and sales manager Adam Leece (right) with a Simex drum cut
A Hitachi Zaxis 48U with new LANDCROS branding
Brooks Hire general manager Nathan Femener with an XCMG XE215LC excavator
1.9
STANDARD FEATURES
• Hydraulic Quick Hitch
• 3x Buckets & Ripper
• ROPS/FOPS Canopy
STANDARD FEATURES
• Load Sensing Hydraulics
• Safety Vales, Boom, Arm, Dozer
• 4 Way Angled Dozer Blade
Best of the Fest
Earthmoving and construction equipment formed an essential addition to FarmFest, with Queensland’s largest eld days showcasing the latest on the market
Amidst a sea of agricultural machinery at popular Queensland event FarmFest, numerous exhibitors also showcased products suited to the construction sector.
The three-day event, held in early June at a dedicated site near Toowoomba, attracted more than 37,000 visitors who were keen to check out the wide array of equipment on show.
Sister magazine Farms & Farm Machinery was on site at the show – here is a selection of construction equipment highlights at FarmFest 2026.
JCB
A wide selection of JCB machinery suited to the construction sector, in addition to its agriculturespeci c products, gave dealer Wideland Group plenty to showcase.
The dealer described the opening day of FarmFest 2026 as being a “fantastic start”, with crowds continuing to stop at many of the JCB machines.
One which has appeal for construction is the 541-70 telehandler, which has a 7m li height, 3.7m maximum reach and a 4,100kg li capacity.
Powered by a 109hp (81kW) engine, JCB highlights the low boom pro le and low boom pivot and describes it as being both powerful and e cient.
“A 541-70 Loadall is an extremely manoeuvrable telescopic handler; the compact wheelbase, large steering lock angles and three selectable steer modes save you valuable travel time on site,” JCB says.
Hercules
Skid steers, wheel loaders and excavators were among the popular machines for Hercules Machinery Group during FarmFest.
Images: Prime Creative Media
Ian Schurmann and Steven Ragenovich showed the Hercules mini excavators and compact track loaders
JCB’s 541-70 Loadall telehandler caught the eye at FarmFest
Events
The Brisbane-based business had a popular stand during the event, with sales representatives Ian Schurmann and Steven Ragenovich constantly in demand with customers.
Ragenovich says the compact track loaders, which have been a new addition to the Hercules o ering, were a popular attraction.
The range includes the T85, which features an 85hp (62kW) Kubota engine and features a 1.1 tonne operation load.
Another new addition at the event was the HMG38E mini excavator, which has a 24hp (18kW) Kubota engine, along with zero-tail swing design for con ned spaces and a spacious operator area.
Ragenovich says these new machines are an exciting addition to the Hercules range, with the Queensland eld day season being an ideal time to launch them to customers.
Merlo
A telehandler described as a “bit of a beast” formed part of Merlo Australia’s stand during FarmFest.
The P50.18 is part of the manufacturer’s Panoramic range and boasts an impressive 17.4m li height and 13.5m reach.
There is also a 5,000kg maximum load capacity, with the unit itself weighing over 13 tonnes.
Merlo displayed several telehandlers, with manager Terry Drans eld highlighting the P50.18 as being ideal for those in the construction sector requiring a bigger machine.
“This telehandler is probably more suited to heavy construction,” he says.
“This one’s a bit of a beast and is good for larger scale work.”
FlipScreen
One thing most farmers have in common with construction businesses is the need to move material around every day.
FlipScreen helps machines to screen and separate material on the spot, allowing it to be processed and for clumps to be removed quickly without clogging a screen.
It is adaptable for multiple machinery types, with FlipScreen national sales manager Josh Hartley highlighting the EX144 during FarmFest as being the company’s excavator model, adding that it is ideal for high-capacity material processing in sectors such as construction.
The EX144 is designed for excavators between 29 and 35 tonnes, o ering a 1.4 cubic metre scoop volume and 6.5 square metre screen area.
FlipScreen national sales manager
Josh Hartley with the EX144 excavator model
AllClass sales representative Hayden Schneider, Merlo Australia regional manager
Male allies
NAWIC Male Ally Award winner Nigel Gorman discusses what the industry needs to do to make it a more appealing prospect for women in trades and construction
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is delivering a three-year Allyship in Action project, shining a light on the importance of men’s roles in encouraging positive change in industries like construction and its associated trades.
The Male Allies Training Course was launched on March 16 at the Loganlea State High School project site in Queensland and is a national framework that tackles harmful attitudes and behaviours, empowers men to sponsor women into leadership, activate cultural ambassadors to embed change onsite and applies best-practice cultural reform approaches across the market.
Last year’s NAWIC Male Ally Award Winner Nigel Gorman has been using his position as owner of the Aussie Painters Network and involvement with the Male Allies program to further these ambitions and address the core question of what can everybody do, irrespective of gender, to make trades and construction attractive and supportive enough for women to want to work in these industries.
Training the next generation Gorman says he himself fell into a trade a er leaving school early. A er picking up painting because he knew a mate in the industry, this led him on the path to eventually setting up his own painting business. However, a bad accident led him away from
painting and towards training and o ering career support to others.
“I ran my own business for about 15 years, but had a workplace accident where I snapped all the ligaments and tendons in my right ankle,” Gorman says.
“That changed everything. I had over a dozen people working for me at the time and I ended up having to shut down my business.
“That’s when I started up the Aussie Painters Network, and we work across all aspects of the painting industry, from training apprentices through to how to run a painting business.
“Currently we have over 150 apprentices in Queensland in training. We built our own training facility speci cally for the painting industry and we work with di erent RTOs [registered training organisations] and make sure that their apprentices are trained correctly.”
Gorman says that about 30 per cent of the painting apprentices he works with are female and he has long been an advocate for attracting more women into trades.
“The way I see it is that if anybody
Images: Nigel Gorman
Nigel Gorman (right) with his daughter Kyra and mother Celeste
Gorman was named NAWIC Male Ally Award Winner last year
wants to do something, they should be given that opportunity,” he says.
“It makes no di erence to me whether you’re male or female, I’ll treat you exactly the same, but I do understand that there are di erences in requirements.”
Lack of facilities
A key area that is frequently highlighted as being a barrier to female participation in trades is a lack of toilet facilities on work sites – something that Gorman says is still a core issue on smaller, usually residential projects.
“Large sites tend to be heavily regulated by the government, so they’ll have facilities, but on smaller construction sites – things like housing estates – you’ll nd a lack of toilets,” he says.
“Whereas a guy can go round the corner and pee in a bucket, it’s not quite as easy for a woman. And that’s before you get into hygiene needs. And these things aren’t recognised by companies until it’s brought to their attention.”
This lack of facilities isn’t just an inconvenience to women
working on the site – it can lead to problems within the team and a drop in productivity.
“A lot of female apprentices that I work with end up having to drive 20/30 minutes to get to the nearest McDonald’s or a service station to go to the toilet, which means they’re o site,” Gorman says.
“This can then cause microaggressions around ‘why is she not here?’ And this ends up undermining the idea of employing a woman.
“It’s just a matter of employers taking action and providing the right facilities. We need to make sure that all of our sta are looked a er. It is legislated that you’ve got to do it, it’s a basic human right to have access to a toilet.
“The majority of contractors are in that residential market, so this is a signi cant issue.”
When asked what other changes he would like to see happening within the industry, Gorman says that cultural changes and better managerial skills are required. The old way of doing things will no longer be tolerated by younger generations
Gorman has used his position as owner of the Aussie Painters Network to make trades a more attractive workplace for young women
he points out and does little to welcome both men and women into trades and construction roles.
“I went through my time in the industry where, if you stu ed up, you were hit over the back of the head,” Gorman says.
“Obviously that’s not acceptable, but the majority of people my age – mid-50s – are now supervisors or business owners and they are training the next generations coming through the industry. But they haven’t been taught how to pass on information in a positive way.
“I was told by teachers I was never going to amount to anything, that I was never good at anything. I had learning issues, and still do, but I’ve adapted and educated myself so I don’t perpetuate that negative approach.
“I spend a lot of time talking with apprentices, both male and female, to get a better understanding of what their needs and wants are in the marketplace and in the workplace, which are completely di erent to what we think about as a 55-year-old supervisor or business owner.
“You can pick out the culture within a business very quickly and there are employers that we will never send any apprentices to, let alone a female apprentice. It’s unfortunate that there’s that lack of education in those areas.”
Advocating for inclusion
Having been in leadership positions with Master Painters Association Queensland and Master Painters Australia, it was through this industry advocacy work that Gorman started attending NAWIC events. Currently he is on the Women in Tools Committee and co-chair of the Male Allies and Future Male Allies program.
He says a lot of his work with the Women on Tools Committee and the Aussie Painters Network is focused on aiding women looking to enter the industry; giving them information and helping them build their networks.
“With the Women on Tools Committee we attend events such as career expos, with the aim of forming pathways for women coming through into the construction industry,” Gorman says.
“People o en don’t know where they can go or what they can be involved in. The work we do helps give them a direction to head in.
“In my case I talk a lot about the painting industry and opportunities available there. The way we sell it is that you’re not going to be stuck on a paintbrush for the rest of your life. It’s more about what job opportunities there could be a er you’ve done your apprenticeship, whether you want to set up your own business and so on.
“If you want to attract that demographic, you have to nd the right wording. I’m sure there’s plenty of women out there that want to jump behind the wheel of a truck or an excavator, it’s just a matter of nding them and explaining that there are those opportunities available.”
On the male ally side, Gorman and the program committee are looking to support and train men working in the industry so they can be an active ally for not just female colleagues
or reports but for an overall better culture that bene ts everybody.
“Unfortunately, the construction and mining industry, and even the manufacturing industry, have a bad rap about how macho it is,” he says.
“However, we’ve seen quite signi cant changes with the employers we work with when they’ve had women on sites. They report the sites are cleaner and the language used is better, so they’re actually showing a di erent way of working that in uences change.
“What it should come down to is, if you see someone that needs a hand, or is struggling in some way, o er to help. That’s the importance of R U
OK Day and other initiatives that aim to open up those conversations and break down those barriers.
“Other people on site, male or female, need to do their job the same as you. It’s just a matter of treating them exactly the same way.
“Also, if you do see something that’s wrong, put up your hand and say, ‘Hey, this isn’t right’. I’ve been around long enough, and put my hand up o en enough, that when I see behaviour that isn’t right, I’ll ag it and I don’t worry about copping it from others.
“I’m comfortable in who I am. It’s di cult for younger guys when you’re in your 20s and early 30s and you’ve got 50-year-olds carrying on, so this is what we’re focusing on with the future male allies program. We’re trying to support those guys and give them ways of initiating conversations, to change things.”
As to what role men have to play in NAWIC and its initiatives, Gorman says everybody has a vital role to play in building a more attractive industry that better serves all of those who work within it.
“It comes down to doing the right thing by people,” he says.
“I don’t feel that I do anything special. I just treat people the way that I like to be treated, and I treat people with dignity. I make sure that people are respected in what they want to do and how they want to do it, no matter what gender they are.”
For more information on NAWIC visit: www.nawic.com.au
The Aussie Painters Network team at Careers Expo: Peter, Tanya, Nigel, Caroline and Jared
Aussie Painters Network with Mates in Construction at the Women in Painting Launch
Budget boost
Queensland’s 2026–27 Budget is a win for the state’s infrastructure
With the release of Queensland’s State Budget for 2026–27 we welcome a record pipeline of investment into Queensland transport infrastructure.
I’m pleased to see critical investments made at a pivotal time for the state.
This budget delivers the necessary investment to manage Queensland’s immense growth. An almost 35 per cent increase in funding over the forward period is to be commended. This is an extra $14 billion supporting jobs, growth and productivity across the length and breadth of the state.
I congratulate the Queensland government on delivering the productive investment in
Damian Long, CEO CCF QLD
infrastructure that will support 33,000 jobs and grow our economy now and into the future.
This is the kind of investment our state has been crying out for for years, and this will help our state maintain our enviable lifestyle whilst our population increases.
I am particularly pleased to see continued investment in the Bruce
Highway, as well as new projects in the growing Southeast.
The $9 billion commitment to the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is critical to regional Queensland’s future, just like investments in the Wave and Gold Coast Faster Rail are transformative for the Southeast of the state.
Being a decentralised state has both advantages and disadvantages, and we believe the right balance has been struck here around investment in all regions. Faster transport to and from Brisbane for residents on the Gold and Sunshine Coast will be a driver of new economic opportunities, as will a safer Bruce Highway.
These investments will help ensure the generational dividend the Olympics is set to provide is shared equally across Queensland.
We will continue to work with the Crisafulli government to make sure barriers to the e cient delivery of infrastructure are broken down. We need to make sure that productivity is supported at every opportunity through the supply chain to deliver infrastructure on time and on budget.
Scan to learn how CCF QLD can support your civil construction journey
The most recent Queensland budget allocates $9 billion for improving safety on the Bruce Highway. Image: Rob Hill/stock.adobe.com
The budget sees significant investment in rail transport in the state. Image: Gavin/stock.adobe.com
Global skills challenge
Benchmarking Team Australia against the world
Benchmarking is one of those words thrown around freely in skills development circles, but rarely do we get to see it in such concrete, high-stakes action.
The Global Skills Challenge, hosted across TAFE NSW campuses in Wollongong, gave Australia exactly that: a genuine opportunity to measure our Skillaroos against the world’s best, on home soil, ahead of the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai this September.
Sixteen nations made the trip to Wollongong, including skills heavyweights China, Japan, Korea, France, Austria and Kazakhstan, to compete head-to-head across 33 skill categories.
With 160 competitors, 147 experts, and a further 106 interpreters, o cials and observers on the ground, this was no small-scale exercise. It was a genuine international benchmark, delivered with the scale and rigour needed to produce results we could trust.
That’s the real power of an event like this. This competition tells us how our Skillaroos stack up against the world. The Global Skills Challenge gives us a like-forlike comparison against the very nations we’ll be competing against in Shanghai, under comparable conditions, standards and scrutiny.
For a sport-equivalent comparison: it’s the di erence between timing yourself on a home track and racing
CEO, WorldSkills Australia.
against the eld you’ll actually meet on competition day.
It also functioned as the nal pressure test our Skillaroos needed: a chance to feel the intensity of an international competition oor, manage nerves, and adjust to unfamiliar rhythms, all before the
stakes are raised further in Shanghai. And as a benchmarking exercise, the results were outstanding.
Australia topped the medal tally with 7 Gold, 6 Silver and 4 Bronze, ahead of Korea in second and China in third. Outperforming nations with deep, long-running investment in vocational skills is a meaningful signal, not just of talent, but of how well our training pathways and expert mentoring are tracking against international standards.
Just as valuable as the medal count is what the benchmarking revealed beneath it: subtle di erences in technique, pacing and judging expectations that only surface when measured directly against international peers. That granular insight, gathered on Australian soil, is something no amount of domestic preparation could have delivered.
Hosting an event of this calibre also reinforces Australia’s credibility within the global skills community, not merely as a competitor, but as a nation capable of setting and hosting world-class benchmarks.
As our Skillaroos now turn toward Shanghai, the Global Skills Challenge leaves them with more than con dence. It leaves them with proof, internationally benchmarked proof, that they are ready.
Learn more about how you and your business can support our work at www.worldskills.org.au
Trevor Schwenke,
Australia topped the medal tally with seven gold medals amongst the haul. Images: WorldSkills Australia
The Global Skills Challenge gave Australian participants the chance to compete under competition conditions
O site, not out of mind
Parental leave is a critical tool to retain a skilled workforce
Questioning the need for paid parental leave really is out of step with modern workplaces.
In June, we launched ‘O site, Not Out of Mind’, our national campaign on pregnancy, parental leave and parenting in construction, developed following publication of research in partnership with NAWIC led by Dr Natalie Galea and Associate Professor Myra Hamilton at the University of Sydney Business School.
At NAWIC, we see pregnancy as the single biggest risk point for losing women from our industry. That’s not just a personal cost – it’s a workforce crisis we can’t a ord to ignore.
We recently challenged Senator Pauline Hanson’s comments at the National Press Club questioning the need for paid parental leave and suggesting employers should not support workers on maternity leave.
The remarks risked sending Australia backwards at the very moment when the construction
National director and national infrastructure sector lead at WT (Australia) Sam Mendoza features in NAWIC’s #ParentingOutLoud stories series
Cathryn Greville, CEO, NAWIC
sector is working hard to attract and retain more women, even with Ms Hanson’s later clari cation that she would not seek to cut government funded parental leave.
Questioning whether women should receive paid parental leave and implying that businesses should not play a role in supporting new parents is not only out of step with modern Australian and global workplaces, but also economically short sighted.
In construction, where women remain signi cantly underrepresented, paid parental leave is a critical workforce tool that
keeps skilled people in the industry rather than pushing them out when they start a family.
Rolling back leave or pushing women out of the workforce would widen the gender pay and wealth gaps and reduce the pool of skilled workers our industry urgently needs.
Undermining either government funded or employer funded leave damages participation, productivity and long-term retirement outcomes for women.
Framing parental leave as a ‘cost’ to business ignores the reality that replacing experienced sta is far more expensive than supporting them through a relatively short period of leave. Construction companies that o er strong parental leave and exible work know this is about retaining talent and project continuity, not charity.
We also reject any suggestion that debates about paid parental leave are separate from Australia’s gender pay gap, noting that interruptions to work and superannuation compound over a woman’s career.
In contrast to proposals to wind back support, NAWIC is calling for a constructive, evidence based conversation with industry, government and unions about what parents in construction actually need – including stable, high quality childcare, exible work options on and o site, and policies that keep women connected to their careers.
To help drive that conversation, as part of our national campaign we will host a roundtable on 31 July in Newcastle bringing together local employers, unions, training providers and community leaders to discuss how best to support parents and carers in construction and related trades.
The roundtable will consider practical measures to improve parental leave access, job security on
General manager, people, brand & communications at Paynters Sarah Rose says conversations around parental leave need to take place before leave begins
return from leave, and the availability of childcare that works for site-based and shi -based roles.
We invite political leaders from all parties to listen to the experience of women in construction and to focus on policies that strengthen, rather than weaken, their participation.
Australia cannot a ord to turn the clock back on paid parental leave least of all in an industry facing skills shortages and ambitious infrastructure and housing targets.
Alongside our national campaign, we’ve launched #ParentingOutLoud –a space for real stories from people in construction about what the current culture looks and feels like.
To change culture we have to talk about what’s actually going on. Our rst two stories feature general manager, people, brand & communications at Paynters Sarah Rose and national director and national infrastructure sector lead at WT (Australia) Sam Mendoza.
In telling her parental leave story, Rose says getting it right starts before leave even begins with “one honest
conversation, no assumptions, and the grace to let the plan change when parenthood does what it always does”.
Medoza says he has felt the pressure to keep the parenting side of his life quiet at work but “the most important thing I can do is talk about it, talk about being a dad, the
challenges and the victories, make it normal, make it part of who I am.”
Read their stories, learn more about the parental leave roundtable ‘O Site, Not Out of Mind’, and how to register at www.nawic.com.au. if you have a story to share, we want to hear it.
NAWIC is the peak membership body for women working in the construction industry and supporting sectors across the built environment. A national not-for-profit association dedicated to the attraction, development and retention of women in the construction industry, NAWIC has local chapters in every state and territory, and forms part of a global NAWIC network of like-minded people focused on driving gender equity. You can find out more about NAWIC through its social media channels @nawicau or website nawic.com.au
A roundtable on July 31 will discuss how industry and employers can best support parents and carers
Changes have now come into e ect around minimum wage, parental leave and superannuation payments.
Image: Daria Nipot/stock.adobe.com
LEGISLATION
Fair Work changes
Changes to minimum wage, application fee and award rates are now in place
From July 1 the National Minimum Wage increased to $1004.90 per week or $26.44 per hour and award minimum wages have increased by 4.75 per cent.
Other award wages will get a proportionate increase. This includes junior, apprentice and supported wages that are based on adult minimum wages. This increase applies from the first pay period starting on or after July 1, 2026. If you’re covered by an enterprise agreement, the minimum wage increase may apply. This is because the base pay rate in an enterprise agreement can’t be less than the base pay rate in the relevant award.
Other changes that have come into e ect include:
• employers now need to pay superannuation contributions at the same time as they pay their employees’ wages
• the Fair Work application fee has increased to $92.70
• unpaid parental leave has increased to 130 for a child who was born or placed for adoption on or after July 1, 2026
• government funded parental leave pay has been increased to 130 days
• the high income threshold and contractor high income threshold as increased to $190,100. The compensation cap has increased to $95,050.
For more information on all changes, visit: www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/ workplace-laws/annual-wagereview/annual-wage-review2026#new-payday-super-rules
New Volvo factory
Work has o cially begun on Volvo Construction Equipment’s (Volvo CE) new excavator factory in Eskilstuna, Sweden
Swedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson and deputy prime minister Ebba Busch made the symbolic rst dig at Volvo CE’s new Swedish factory recently using an electric excavator.
Set for completion in 2028, Volvo CE has invested SEK 700 million (A$1.1 billion) in its new factory in Eskilstuna, which Volvo CE says forms part of its long-term strategy to build closer to its customers and strengthen its regional presence.
Kristersson says it felt like coming home at the ground breaking ceremony, as the Swedish PM grew up in Eskilstuna.
“I’m incredibly pleased to be here and show how this proud heritage is being carried forward,” Kristersson says.
“I strongly believe in the close dialogue between business and politics that we have in Sweden –keep up the good work.”
Busch called it the next chapter in Sweden’s industrial history.
“These yellow machines have quite literally built this country – from roads and mines to cities,” she says.
“At a time of increasing uncertainty, competitiveness is not just an economic issue. It is about independence, resilience and the ability to build our future with our own resources.”
From left: Martin Lundstedt, Volvo Group, Minister Ebba Busch, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Melker Jernberg, Volvo CE. Image: Volvo Group
Eskilstuna is the site of Volvo CE’s global headquarters, its largest research and development centre, and the sales organisation for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Oceania, as well as a component factory – making it a central hub for the company’s operations.
Volvo CE will manufacture all its key products in Sweden – articulated haulers in Braås, wheel loaders in Arvika, excavators in Eskilstuna and cabs in Hallsberg.
The new facility in Eskilstuna will cover approximately 30,000 square metres and feature mixed module assembly for both electric and combustion engine crawler excavators in weight classes ranging from 14 to 50 tonnes, with an annual production capacity of up to 3,500 machines.
“Sweden has been a natural part of Volvo CE’s industrial journey for nearly two centuries, and we are proud to continue making major investments that strengthen both Sweden and Europe on the global stage,” Volvo CE president Melker Jernberg says.
Wave Stage 3 (Metro). Image: Queensland government
INFRASTRUCTURE
Riding the wave
The early works package for the Sunshine Coast’s Mooloolah River Interchange has been awarded in preparation for The Wave Stage 3 (Metro)
The McIlwain Civil Engineering and SEE Civil Joint Venture has been awarded a contract to deliver the next stage of early works for the Mooloolah River Interchange (MRI) on the Sunshine Coast.
The early works package includes major earthworks and embankment construction to prepare the site for the full interchange upgrade. As part of this, tens of thousands of tonnes of material are expected to be moved to build a strong foundation for the new interchange infrastructure in preparation for The Wave Stage 3 (Metro).
This broader project will deliver a highcapacity, high-frequency metro-style service connecting key growth areas, major employment hubs and essential services across the Sunshine Coast. Upgrades will also integrate with the future heavy passenger rail connection at Birtinya.
“We are delivering the infrastructure needed to support one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, which is why we’re delivering The Wave all the way to the airport,” Queensland deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie says.
“These early works on The Wave are another way we are delivering the largest transport infrastructure investment ever planned for the Sunshine Coast.”
Infrastructure investments
Queensland’s state budget includes its largest ever infrastructure pipeline investment, while NSW is funding support for transport infrastructure
The Queensland and NSW governments have announced their respective 2026-27 state budgets, with signi cant investments into infrastructure projects.
In Queensland, the state government says it is supporting the largest ever infrastructure pipeline with a $29.6 billion investment in the 2026-27 budget and $119.2 billion over four years.
Some of the key highlights of Queensland’s 2026-27 Budget include $460 million to commence Stage 1 of The Wave project, which will deliver a heavy passenger rail line from Beerwah to Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast, and a further $243 million to be invested into the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program – delivered with a restored 80:20 investment with the federal government.
Civil Contractors Federation Queensland (CCF QLD) has welcomed the record pipeline of investment into the state’s transport infrastructure.
“This is the kind of investment our state has been crying out for years, and this will help our state maintain our enviable lifestyle whilst our population increases,” CCF QLD CEO Damian Long says.
“The $9 billion commitment to the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is critical to regional Queensland’s future, just like investments in the Wave and Gold
Daracon Group won for its Coulsons Creek Road MR358 project. Image: Daracon Group
Coast Faster Rail are transformative for the Southeast.
“Faster transport to and from Brisbane for residents on the Gold and Sunshine Coast will be a driver of new economic opportunities, as will a safer Bruce Highway. These investments will help ensure the generational dividend the Olympics is set to provide is shared equally across Queensland.”
In its state budget, NSW has allocated $60.2 billion over four years in transport infrastructure.
This includes $12.9 billion for Sydney Metro West, $6.5 billion in Western Sydney roads, $2.3 billion for the Western Harbour Tunnel Upgrade, $2.2 billion for Sydney Metro-Western Sydney Airport, and $1.4 billion for the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2.
$11.9 billion investment over four years will go towards health infrastructure, including the rst new hospital in Western Sydney in more than 40 years at Rouse Hill and the largest hospital redevelopment underway in New South Wales with $2 billion for Bankstown Hospital.
$9.2 billion over four years will also go towards supporting the delivery of more than 260 new and upgraded schools.
An artist’s impression of The
Infrastructure excellence AWARDS
New South Wales’ leading civil construction projects and contractors were recognised at the 2026 CCF
NSW Earth Awards
Civil Contractors Federation NSW (CCF NSW) has announced the winners of its 2026 Earth Awards.
Taking out the top honour in the category for projects valued at more than $150 million was the AeroWest joint venture, comprising Seymour Whyte and BMD Group, for its work on the Landside Civil and Building Works Package at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.
The project delivered the enabling infrastructure required for the new airport, which is set to welcome its rst travellers this year.
Haslin Constructions was the winner of the $75m to $150m project category, having been recognised for its work on the new Eurobodalla Southern Storage Dam on the south coast of NSW, while Daracon Group secured the award in the $30m to $75m category, delivering critical repairs on the Coulsons Creek Road MR358 project in the upper Hunter region.
In the $10m to $30m category, Quickway was named the winner for the Tatham Twin Bridges Replacement in the Northern Rivers, and the $5m to $10m award went to VClyde Civil for the Tallawong Public School – Civil and Public Domain Works project in Sydney’s northwest.
For projects valued between $2m and $5m, Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure was recognised for
PWG Infrastructure Pty Ltd was named the winner of the People’s Choice award for its work on the West Dapto Pkg 3, Lot B Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrade. Image: CCF NSW
the Warragamba Radial Gate Control Measures project, an upgrade to Sydney’s main drinking water supply infrastructure at Warragamba Dam.
MGP Civil took out the title for projects valued up to $2m for its work on the Menangle Stage 3 Aqueduct project, which delivered new wastewater infrastructure in Menangle, near Campbelltown and Camden.
Lasty, the People’s Choice award was presented to PWG Infrastructure Pty Ltd for the West Dapto Pkg 3, Lot B Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrade, a project delivering essential services in Wollongong.
CCF NSW CEO Kylie Yates says all the winners, including the nalists, delivered excellent projects which have signi cantly contributed to the cities and towns they serve.
“Civil contractors are the unsung heroes of construction – they are the rst in to any project to perform the enabling works, so that everything else can be built,” Yates says.
“Civil construction is necessary for every aspect of modern life and CCF NSW is proud to give credit where it is due for excellence in the eld. Congratulations to all our winners and nalists.”
From July 1, any construction work in South Australia that poses a fall risk of above 2m will require fall protection and a Safe Work Method Statement. Image: Jacek/adobe.stock.com
LEGISLATION
SA regulation change
South Australia lowers high risk fall threshold to 2m
From July 1, 2026, South Australia has lowered the high-risk construction work fall threshold from three metres to two metres under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Amendment Regulations 2025
The change aligns South Australia with the national model WHS framework and means any construction work where a person could fall more than two metres now requires a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) and appropriate fall protection measures under the hierarchy of controls.
The regulatory change responds to a documented safety gap.
SafeWork SA and ReturnToWorkSA data show 1,585 workers’ compensation claims from construction falls since 2016/17, costing more than $64 million.
Between 2020 and 2022 alone, 149 SA construction workers fell from above two metres.
Of those, 68 per cent occurred in the two- to three-metre range, the exact height band now captured by the lower threshold.
Single-storey residential builders in SA will be most a ected. Under the previous 3m threshold, much of the roof work on single-storey homes sat below the highrisk construction work line.
Under the new 2m threshold, the majority of that work now crosses it.
For more information, visit: safework.sa.gov.au/news-andalerts/news/news/2025/loweringheight-threshold-will-raise-safetystandards
Mines are being urged to enforce strict protocols to prevent parking in exclusion zones. Image: Adwo/stock.adobe.com
SAFETY
Parking warning
An incident at a Central Queensland coal mine where a bulldozer reversed into a ute has led to a call to better enforce parking procedures
Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) has released a safety alert after a ute driver was nearly crushed by a reversing bulldozer at a coal site in Central Queensland.
Dashcam video from the site shows the ute driver attempting to move out of the bulldozer’s way before being hit and pushed three metres across the site, Luckily, the ute driver escaped injury despite the side of the light vehicle receiving significant damage.
RSHQ’s chief inspector of coal mines Jacques le Roux says there was a significant risk of a fatality for an event that could have been avoided.
“Worryingly, our initial investigation has shown that the incident occurred because operators were routinely parking in an undocumented position to do crib time driver swaps,” le Roux says.
“Even though it was not the designated location to stop and swap operators, over time it had become normalised as the location and that created danger.”
Le Roux reminded site senior executives at mines to review and enforce parking procedures and to implement safe work instructions for hot seat changeouts.
RSHQ’s chief inspector of coal mines Jacques le Roux. Image: RSHQ.
Excellence in utilities
Nominations are now o cially open for the 2026
Presented in partnership with Australia’s leading utilities, a brandnew awards program dedicated to recognising excellence across Australia’s utilities sector has o cially launched, with the 2026 Utility Awards set to take place in Melbourne this October.
From electricity, gas and renewables to water and network infrastructure the awards celebrate the leaders driving innovation, resilience and progress in utilities.
The awards dinner will be held at Evoque Events in Melbourne on 27 October 2026, bringing together industry leaders and professionals from across the country for a night of celebration and connection.
“The utilities sector is evolving rapidly, and these awards are designed to shine a spotlight on the leaders and innovators setting new benchmarks for the industry,” head of awards and conferences at Prime Creative Media head of awards and conferences Caitlyn Douglas says.
2026 Utility Awards categories:
• Utility of the Year
• Retailer of the Year
• Utility Person of the Year
• Customer Experience Person of the Year
• Utility Project of the Year
• Project Delivery Team of the Year
• Digital Transformation Project of the Year
• Network Innovation Award
• Decarbonisation Initiative of the Year
Utility Awards
Nominate an individual, team or project for an award. Image: knelson20/stock. adobe.com
• Cross-Utility Collaboration of the Year
• Utility-Supplier Partnership of the Year
• Rising Star in Utilities
• Safety Excellence Award
• Field Excellence Award
• Diversity & Inclusion Program of the Year.
“The award categories have been carefully designed to re ect the breadth and diversity of the utilities sector, while creating meaningful opportunities to recognise the outstanding individuals, teams and organisations driving the industry forward,” Douglas says.
Nominations are encouraged from utilities of all sizes, industry partners, contractors and suppliers who are delivering outstanding projects, leadership, sustainability initiatives or operational achievements.
By nominating, organisations can celebrate their success and highlight the people and processes making a meaningful di erence to customers, communities and the future of the industry.
Utilities professionals and businesses across Australia are invited to submit nominations now at utilityawards.com.au.
construction events
Here are upcoming events for 2026. Information was current as of going to press
Australian Small Bridges Conference & Expo – Adelaide
Since 2005, the long running Australian Small Bridges Conference, and Exhibition provides practical guidance to bridge, road and rail engineers, asset owners, managers, contractors and suppliers about signi cant new developments and requirements for small to medium span bridges, including culverts and associated civil and geotechnical works.
WHEN: July 28–29, 2026
MORE INFO: smallbridges.com.au
CCF QLD Excellence in Civil Construction Awards – Brisbane
Join CCF QLD to celebrate Queensland’s outstanding people and projects at the annual Excellence in Civil Construction Awards.
WHEN: August 7, 2026
MORE INFO: ccfqld.com/event-6519889
Foundations and Frontiers – Brisbane
The Australian Constructors Association hosts the Foundations and Frontiers forum, which tracks the industry’s progress since the launch of the National Construction Strategy and is a forum for TED-style talks, interactive discussions and a leaders roundtable.
WHEN: August 20, 2026
MORE INFO: foundationsandfrontiers.com.au
CCF QLD State Conference –Broadbeach, QLD
Join CCF QLD for its annual state conference. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry peers, gain valuable insights, and be part of an engaging program designed to inspire and inform.
WHEN: August 31, 2026
MORE INFO: ccfqld.com/event-6237148
NT Resources Week – Darwin
NT Resources Week combines three resource and construction industry events – the South East Asia Australia O shore & Onshore Conference (SEAAOC), Mining the Territory and the Environmental Management &
Decarbonisation Forum. It has fast become the leading meeting point for captains of industry in mining, exploration, petroleum, oil/gas, engineering, construction and infrastructure.
WHEN: September 2–3, 2026
MORE INFO: ntresourcesweek.com.au
NSW Major Projects Conference –Sydney
The NSW Major Projects Conference convenes government, asset owners, and industry to unpack the state’s infrastructure and development pipeline-from early planning and approvals through procurement, delivery, and operations.
WHEN: September 8–9, 2026
MORE INFO: www.expotradeglobal.com/events/ nswmajorprojects
Bulk Expo and MegaTrans –Melbourne
A dedicated exhibition for the bulk solids handling industry, the Bulk Expo showcases bulk solids transport solutions for domestic and international trade. The event will feature an expansive trade show, showcasing the latest solutions for the industry, as well as hosting an informative two-day conference. Hosted alongside Bulk Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, MegaTrans focuses on the sustainable supply chain of the future, with exhibitors showcasing technology and initiatives for the logistics industry.
The Tasmanian government’s 2030 Strong Plan aims to strengthen the economy, create jobs, and enhance living and working conditions. A further $5.1 billion will be invested in projects including hospitals, schools, training facilities, roads, and bridges. The conference will discuss these major infrastructure initiatives shaping Tasmania’s future.
WHEN: September 16–17, 2026
MORE INFO: www.expotradeglobal.com/events/ tasmajorprojects
WA Mining Conference & Exhibition – Perth
WA Mining Conference will focus on the best practices, technologies and strategies advancing mining in Western Australia to help you increase production, lower costs and prepare for a sustainable future. WA Mining Conference will address the most important issues shaping mining in WA.
WHEN: September 16–17, 2026
MORE INFO: www.waminingexpo.com.au
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[SPECIAL]
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Re-Barred
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CASE
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These hand-picked items from across our dealer network are a selection of popular categories and great bargains. Scan the QR code to check out the latest price info and see more detailed specs, or call the number listed below each item.
And best be in quick, these items are sure to sell!
