Underground Drilling with a Difference
Underground Drilling with a Difference With the largest fleet of drill rig units in Australia and a deeply committed approach to meeting customers’ needs, Cougar Group sets the standard in underground equipment manufacturing and services. Chad Dillinger, CEO, and Justin Tredinnick, COO, delve deeper into the group’s continued success Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold
Chad Dillinger, CEO
C
urrently, the Australian mining industry is evolving at a rate never before seen. As a result, the underground equipment sector presents a wealth of opportunity. In the underground coal category specifically, there is an increasing emphasis on automation within productivity-linked equipment as well as the evolution of safety technology, 2 | Mining Outlook Issue 16
Justin Tredinnick, COO
with more mines adopting proximity detection systems. At the forefront of this space is Cougar Group (Cougar) – an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of underground technology that is continuously investing in Australian manufacturing operations with systems and process automation, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.
With a highly skilled workforce of over 400 staff members, the group offers equipment, services, and solutions to the Australian underground coal industry across New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland (QLD). Cougar’s manufacturing solutions include personnel transporters, graders, drill rigs, longwall relocation,
COUGAR GROUP ASIA PACIFIC
and auxiliary power equipment. “With our services, Cougar is the industry leader in underground in-seam gas drainage, supplemented by a complete portfolio of equipment available for hire and a first-class overhauls team,” introduces Chad Dillinger, CEO. “We have 24 drill rig units – the largest fleet in the underground in-seam gas
drainage segment in Australia.” adds Justin Tredinnick, COO.
MANUFACTURING AND SERVICES EXCELLENCE Founded in 1999, Cougar achieved early success by employing dedicated people, maintaining close customer relationships, and building a robust network of industry partnerships.
“There are many suppliers who have been there from the beginning and many others who have joined our journey along the way – it’s in our best interests that both Cougar and our suppliers are successful and continuously working on our partnership to serve the industry,” Tredinnick shares. Mining Outlook Issue 16 | 3
COUGAR GROUP ASIA PACIFIC
Another key factor in the group’s growth was the strategic decision to invest in and acquire complementary businesses and intellectual property, including the Industrea Mining Equipment assets from General Electric (GE) Mining in 2018 and fleet assets from VLI Drilling. Fast forward to today, and the group is about to build the 100th Cougar-branded personnel carrier since acquiring the intellectual property from GE Mining. The group has also expanded its capabilities as its clients’ needs have evolved and proactively responds to customers’ continuous feedback, resulting in a vast range of services and equipment that differentiates Cougar from its competitors. “Underground coal requires complex equipment and is often operated in challenging conditions. Cougar has one of the most comprehensive offerings of any underground OEM by offering new build equipment, hire equipment, and
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repairs and overhauls in the support equipment and drilling segments, along with complimentary products such as utilities and services pipes,” Dillinger outlines. Also central to Cougar’s success is its recent decision to synergise all its individual brands under one banner, highlighting the number of facets of the underground coal industry the group operates in. “We’re reaching the point where we
can leverage our footprint through the consolidated brands to respond to customers faster. Aligning our divisions, systems, and resources enables stronger collaboration and faster decision-making across projects,” affirms Dillinger. “This, in turn, strengthens our ability to deliver integrated, end-toend solutions – reinforcing Cougar as a reliable partner in demanding underground environments.”
COUGAR GROUP ASIA PACIFIC
Cougar’s owneroperator advantage An owner-operator business offers several advantages for customers. With the owners directly involved in daily operations, customers benefit from personalised and attentive service tailored to their needs. The owner’s vested interest in the business ensures higher accountability and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. Their deep expertise in the field guarantees high-quality products or services, whilst the flexibility of the business allows for quick responses to customer requests. Additionally, customers can build direct relationships with the owner, fostering trust and loyalty. This handson approach also ensures consistency in the quality of service or product delivery, making owner-operator businesses a reliable and customer-focused choice.
TRUSTED PROJECT PARTNER No stranger to technology innovation, the group is continuing to evolve across its many business segments, demonstrated by an impressive product portfolio. For instance, Cougar has a long history of partnering and supplying equipment and services to the upper and lower regions of the Hunter Valley, NSW. The group has recently introduced an equipment financing service that is gaining popularity across the region and offers customers a pathway to
“We’re reaching the point where we can leverage our footprint through the consolidated brands to respond to c u s t o m e r s f a s t e r. A l i g n i n g o u r d i v i s i o n s , systems, and resources enables stronger collaboration and faster decision-making across projects” – CHAD DILLINGER, CEO, COUGAR GROUP
new equipment without the burden of upfront capital expenditure. “We’re proud to be part of Malabar Resources’ journey, which for us started at the very early stages of mine development where we partnered with PYBAR Mining Services to modify two hard rock jumbo drills for compliance in underground coal to develop the drift roads for the Woodlands Hill seam,” Tredinnick recalls. Although drift development isn’t Cougar’s typical business model, the project showcases the group’s ability to
innovate and provide customers with unique solutions to their challenges. Elsewhere, Cougar recently worked with a mine in the Illawarra region in NSW, developing an operator protection system for the mine’s recent new build grader order. Cougar also has a prominent role in the Centurion Coal Mine in QLD, supplying a world-class suite of new build equipment to support day-to-day mine operations, as well as equipment for installation and completing the relocation of a longwall system. Mining Outlook Issue 16 | 5
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With an expansive portfolio that spans laser cutting, manufacturing, and CNC pressing, and automatic rolling, we are here to provide you with industry-leading craftsmanship to make your next project shine. If you’re ready to take your project to the next level with trusted expertise, contact ISG Sheetmetal & Laser today. (02) 4964 8202 | sales@isglaser.com.au | www.isglaser.com.au
NEWCASTLE’S INDUSTRY LEADERS IN FABRICATION AND MANUFACTURING With over 50 years of operational excellence in the ever-expanding fabrication and manufacturing industries, ISG Sheetmetal & Laser is a family-owned sheet metal and laser cutting business situated in the heart of Tomago, New South Wales, Australia.
Offering expert operations since 1973, we pride ourselves on delivering unparalleled service and high-quality products at competitive prices. Our portfolio includes laser cutting, manufacturing, and computer numerical control (CNC) pressing and automatic rolling. Specifically, we specialise in laser cutting and offer a 1x 4-kilowatt (kW) fibre laser and a 1x 6 kW fibre laser that ensures we provide the latest technologies and remain the local industry leader. Our laser cutting services comprise 0.55-12-millimetre (mm) aluminium, 0.55-16 mm stainless steel, and 0.55-25 mm mild steel. For ISG Sheetmetal & Laser’s manufacturing offerings, the company is capable of producing a comprehensive variety of products ranging from intricate filigrees through to ultra-heavy industrial items, such as passenger and non-passenger train parts,
stainless steel cabinets, plinths and platforms, desks and benches, privacy screens, fire pits, and artwork.
company that provides a high level of quality, attention to detail, quick turnaround, a team of experts in the sector, and truly exceptional work.
Looking at our CNC pressing and automatic rolling, two of our operational presses provide precision forming and pressing with capabilities of up to 350 tonnes. We also have a set of automatic rollers capable of rolling 6 mm mild steel and 3 mm stainless steel up to two metres long.
Our laser cutting services are ideal for customers’ homes and businesses. These include mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, and copper.
Ultimately, we’ve built a proud reputation over the course of five decades by delivering only the highest standards in craftsmanship, having been trusted by local industry leaders including Downer Group Limited, UGL, and Atlas Specialty Metals. RELIABLE INDUSTRY EXPERTS Offering customers solutions to even the most specific of industry needs, ISG Sheetmetal & Laser has cemented its position as a
Additionally, we provide advanced laser cutting services with capabilities for various materials. This manufacturing range includes products from intricate designs to heavy industrial items, catering to diverse client needs. With a commitment to quality and competitive pricing, the company services local industry leaders and provides custom solutions. If you’re ready to start your next project, contact ISG Sheetmetal & Laser today.
(02) 4964 8202 sales@isglaser.com.au www.isglaser.com.au
COUGAR GROUP ASIA PACIFIC
Cougar’s products “We provide underground in-seam drilling services to site along with hire equipment. During the longwall installation, we also provided skilled labour that assisted with on-site operations,” he tells us. Cougar is deeply committed to giving back to the communities where its projects take place. Across the Hunter Valley, South Coast, and more broadly in QLD, the group’s local investment programmes focus on health, education, and local development. “We actively support initiatives that uplift the region, from sponsoring local events to funding scholarships and community projects. Our goal is to create a lasting positive impact and strengthen the bonds we share with local people,” Tredinnick details. 8 | Mining Outlook Issue 16
• Mine maintenance – Underground graders and Flitmate. • Drilling – Underground drilling accessories engineered for durability, efficiency, and compatibility with challenging conditions. • Personnel carriers – Minecruiser MK7, MK8, and Predator. • Longwall – Longwall chock carrier (LWC) and longwall shearer carrier (LSC). • Pipes – Fire-resistant anti-static (FRAS) piping.
FUNDAMENTAL VALUES Cougar’s unwavering commitment to safety and sustainability is at the core of its operations. The group is dedicated to driving a sustainable equipment future by investing in cutting-edge R&D, which focuses on improving equipment efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing safety standards.
“Through our overhaul programmes, we extend the lifecycle of machinery, minimising waste and promoting resource conservation. Additionally, our service exchange initiatives ensure that equipment downtime is reduced, enabling seamless operations whilst supporting sustainability goals,” explains Tredinnick.
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“Growth and adaptability remain central to our strategy as we navigate the evolving needs of the industry” – JUSTIN TREDINNICK, COO, COUGAR GROUP
Given that its employees are the backbone of its success, Cougar ensures its staff and stakeholders operate in a secure environment through rigorous training programmes and state-of-the-art safety equipment. “Our implementation of the safety programme Plan and Work Safe (PAWS) is having a positive impact, fostering a proactive safety culture, and empowering our team to prioritise safety in every task,” Dillinger assures. Alongside safety, Cougar also prioritises creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member feels valued. Through ongoing training programmes, career development opportunities, and open communication, the group empowers its employees to reach their full potential. It also celebrates their contributions through recognition 10 | Mining Outlook Issue 16
Cougar’s objectives – at a glance • Find a way to do it better • Speak with honesty and respect • Be safe always • Own it • Work as a team
programmes, awards, and teambuilding activities. “We provide secure employment and foster a supportive workplace where innovation, teamwork, and personal growth are encouraged. By providing opportunities for advancement, recognising achievements, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we ensure that our team feels motivated and
valued every day,” Dillinger smiles. As it looks towards the rest of the year, the group’s key priorities include enhancing its operational efficiency, expanding its service offerings, and exploring opportunities for diversification. “We aim to achieve specific sustainability targets, strengthen our community partnerships, and continue investing in innovative technologies. Growth and adaptability remain central to our strategy as we navigate the evolving needs of the industry,” concludes Tredinnick.
Tel: 1800 268 427 contact@cougar.au
www.cougar.au
COUGAR GROUP ASIA PACIFIC
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Tel: 1800 268 427 contact@cougar.au www.cougar.au
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