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Cranes and Lifting Magazine cranes_and_lifting Cranes and Lifting
22 XCMG
XCMG and Sarens announce crane agreement.
24 Grove rough Terrains Spartan take delivery of new Grove Rough Terrain.
54 Nif tylift
Elevating access with hybrid solutions.
57 MCT Equipment
Monadelphous introduces first electric crane to its fleet.
61 Sany Australia
New Sany rough terrain for Max Ser vices.
64 Complete Crane Solutions
Experience and transparency keys to ser vice growth.
66 Pace Cranes
New Maeda for Mini Crane Hire Sydney.
68 Global Lif ting Group
Lifting confidence with local tech.
70 The Baden Davis Crane Connection Compact Liebherr for Bauer Cranes.
72 Franna – A Terex Brand Shillabeer Crane Hire’s new Franna MAC25‑5.
75 CONEXPO
The growth of North America’s leading construction equipment show.
76 XCMG
New XCMG rough terrains arrive in Western Australia.
78 Potain
IMPORTANCE OF ELEVATED WORK PLATFORMS AND TELEHANDLERS IN THE LIFTING SECTOR
40 Dieci Australia Dieci’s multifunctional rotating telehandlers.
42 Altequip
Custom solutions for tall tasks.
45 LinCon
Growth built on strong platforms.
48 Zoomlion Australia
Tailoring gear for Aussie sites.
51 Skyjack
Powering up for new demands.
Potain finishes construction of world’s tallest bridge.
FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM
Published by:
WELCOME TO THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE OF CRANESANDLIFTING
WE CONTINUE TO READ HOW THE construction sector, both residential and commercial, is struggling as a result of unprofitable building contracts, cost blowouts, labour shortages, planning and licensing delays, draconian industrial relations changes and material cost inflation. These and other challenges led to 3000 building companies going broke in the past financial year. Hopefully the crane sector will continue to weather this storm without incurring further casualties.
The September issue of the magazine contains what we hope is a high level of interesting content with crane hire companies sharing their experiences with various brands and types of cranes. This includes a particularly close look at various rough terrains.
We congratulate both Crane Association of New Zealand and the Crane Industry Council of Australia for the launch of the ‘Little Lifters’ program which is designed to create awareness
of the crane and lifting industry at a very early age. The magazine will be doing everything it can to help promote the program.
We detail how Monadelphous, with the help of MCT Equipment, has introduced the first battery electric into the fleet, and The Global Lifting Group examines the benefits of Australian Made products. The issue also includes insights into the important role of elevated work platforms and telehandlers.
As always, the team at Cranes and Lifting has worked hard to bring you this edition of the magazine and we hope you enjoy the read.
BOOMS UP!
Simon Gould Editor, Cranes and Lifting
379 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008
T: 03 9690 8766 www.primecreativemedia.com.au
Chairman John Murphy E: john.murphy@primecreative.com.au
The Publisher reserves the right to alter or omit any article or advertisement submitted and requires indemnity from the advertisers and contributors against damages or liabilities that may arise from
REACH OUT NOW FOR A SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON AND SEE THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF.
REACH OUT NOW FOR A SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON AND SEE THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF.
FRANNA DEVELOPS INTERNATIONAL FOOTPRINT
The team at Franna – a Terex brand have their eyes firmly set on expanding its international footprint with models recently developed for the United States and United Kingdom markets. Franna will showcase its AT22 crane for the first time in the UK at Vertikal Days and an AT44 US model is being shipped to the US. Danny Black, General Manager at Franna explains.
“FRANNA HAS BECOME A HOUSEHOLD name in Australia since we were established in 1978, becoming a leader in the design and manufacture of pick and carry cranes. Our product is respected across the nation, to the point where ‘Franna’ has become the generic term for pick and carry cranes in Australia. That level of market penetration speaks volumes about our reliability and performance.
“Now, we see massive potential to bring that same value to global markets. A key focus of this work is educating international audiences on the unique safety, versatility, and operational efficiency that Franna cranes can offer. While the concept may be less familiar in global markets, the opportunity is clear
and Franna is ready to redefine pick and carry crane solutions worldwide – just as we did in Australia,” said Danny.
The Franna AT22-2, a mid-sized mobile pick and carry crane and featuring a maximum lifting capacity of 22 tonnes, will make its first United Kingdom appearance at Vertikal Days, Europe’s largest lifting equipment event. It will be displayed by Crowland Cranes, a Franna distributor in the UK and established leader in crane hire, sales, and service. Operating from three depots across the UK, Crowland Cranes has more than 50 years’ experience in the lifting industry and its commitment to customer-focused solutions makes it a natural fit for the Franna brand.
“Franna pick and carry cranes are highly suitable for multiple industries across the UK due to their versatility, reliability, and superior capabilities,” said Pete Issitt, Managing Director, Crowland Cranes. “In fact, several Franna cranes are already in operation across the UK, and our team has been actively supporting them in the field. This hands-on experience has given us valuable insight, not only into the machines themselves but also into the technical and parts support provided by the team in Australia, which has consistently impressed us with their responsiveness, expertise, and reliability. We are therefore excited to showcase the Franna AT22-2 at Vertikal Days and demonstrate its potential to our wider
Terex Franna is targeting the US with the AT44 US, which has a lifting capacity of up to 44 US tons and a 3-axle design that eliminates the need for a removable counterweight.
Images: Terex Franna
customer base, the first new Franna crane to arrive in Europe for over 25 years.”
Another key region for Franna’s international growth strategy is the North American market. Danny explains more about the reception of articulated pick and carry cranes in the United States.
“It is still early days in the US, and we have recently appointed a Business Development Manager, Kevin Aabel, to help educate customers on the benefits of Franna pick and carry cranes. We struggled to meet market demand due to the introduction of Australian Design Rules in 2024, but we are now fully up to speed. We are working with a very proactive dealer in Mobile Cranes Canada (MCC) who has been showcasing the first ever Franna into the country, which is exciting.
“One of the models being targeted for the US is the AT44 US, with lifting capacity of up to 44 US tons, a 3-axle design that eliminates the need for a removable counterweight. Additional
“Franna pick and carry cranes are highly suitable for multiple industries across the UK due to their
versatility, reliability, and superior capabilities.”
features include a full width isolated cabin, articulating counterweight, and refined crane controls.
“There hasn’t been too many modifications required for the US model,” said Jaco Britz, Engineering Director at Franna.
“Modifying to left hand drive and converting measurements, software, operator manuals and load charts, from metric to imperial were the obvious requirements. Franna is in the middle of an interesting project preparing the engine and hydraulics to operate in cold climate conditions, working with a Canadian company that is best-inclass at engineering these solutions,” said Danny.
Alongside educating international markets on the benefits of the Franna pick and carry concept, the team has been navigating regulatory requirements, ensuring full compliance and securing the necessary certifications to support broader market entry and long-term success.
“We have been working hard to develop our international footprint and with that comes a significant amount of work relating to compliance and certifications,” said Jaco.
“For example, in North America we are certifying the crane to ASME B30.5 and to the relevant EU directives as mandated by the European Union to achieve European Conformity (CE).”
The Franna AT22-2, a mid-sized mobile pick and carry crane and featuring a maximum lifting capacity of 22 tonnes, will make its first UK appearance at Vertikal Days.
“The engineering work completed for ADR compliance has enabled us to use a dual-compliant engine that meets both European EU Stage V and USA EPA Tier 4f standards. This foundation will streamline the process of securing CE certification for the European market.”
“We’re also progressing road certification efforts in both regions,” added Danny. “Our recent work to meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs) – national standards for vehicle safety and emissions – aligns us with international benchmarks like Europe’s ECE regulations. For instance, the engineering work completed for ADR compliance has enabled us to use a dual-compliant engine that meets both European EU Stage V and USA EPA Tier 4f standards. This foundation will streamline the process of securing CE certification for the European market.”
The Franna models for international markets will also feature the patented Safety Radar, which has been well received by crane operators. Danny explains more.
“Traditional Load Moment Indicators (LMIs) only give the operator the Rated Capacity for the current configuration the crane is operating in. But what happens to the Rated Capacity when the operator telescopes out, or articulates right?” he said. “Most operators understand when they increase radius, the capacity of the crane reduces. But do they understand the difference between forward tipping and side tipping limiting Rated Capacities
and how boom height and articulation effects this? Safety Radar takes it to the next level by providing the operator with a clear visual representation of rated capacity changes in response to articulation and boom extension, for the entire working area (as seen in the diagram above).
“The blue dot at the crosshair of boom length and articulation angle shows where the crane is currently operating. The Safety Radar visual shows where the crane can operate and the colour contours reflect the Rated Capacity Percentage. The truncated line of red indicates a Rated Capacity limited by side tipping. This is invaluable information the operator has never previously had available and allows the operator to plan the next move.
The Safety Radar visual also gives the operator an understanding of how the Rated Capacity drops off more quickly in a side tipping limitation as can be seen by the varying thickness of the yellow zone for forward versus side tipping conditions,” said Danny.
With one machine headed to the UK and others to the US, Franna is taking clear, tangible steps toward international growth. This progress is backed by decades of engineering expertise, patented technology, a strong track record in the Australian market, and a focused effort on taking the products through global compliance and certification standards. It’s a significant step in demonstrating that a proven Australian solution is ready to exceed the needs of customers around the world.
Above: The Safety Radar visual shows where the crane can operate and the colour contours reflect the Rated Capacity Percentage.
Vigorous load testing has been completed on both models.
ADVOCATING FOR GREATER PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY
As we move through the second half of 2025, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the important changes and activities taking place across our organisation and industry.
FIRSTLY, OUR ANNUAL BRANCH Meetings (ABMs) have now been held in each state. In some states, we’re seeing continuity, with existing leadership teams continuing their strong work. In others, new chairs and committee members have stepped up to take on these important volunteer roles. CICA simply could not do what it does without the dedication and
support of those willing to serve. To those who have previously served, those currently serving, and those joining us for the first time – thank you. Your contribution is vital and deeply appreciated.
A special mention must also go to the recent Queensland Regional Event. It was a fantastic few days of networking, learning, and connection. The calibre
of speakers was excellent, and once again, our members showed their generosity by raising funds for a worthy cause. Our next regional will be held in Healesville, Victoria, and we’re looking forward to seeing many of you there.
CICA continues to advocate strongly on key issues that are limiting productivity and efficiency across our sector. We have recently
Image:
Nattawit
Khomsanit/shutterstock
made a submission to the Productivity Commission addressing three ongoing barriers:
• Th e rollout of the National Automated Access System (NAAS) and the urgent need for greater engagement from local councils,
• Th e future of ROVER – we continue to await the findings of the ADR Harmonisation Review completed by Professor Warren Mundy, and
• Th e critical skills shortage impacting our ability to meet growing demand.
We are actively engaging with both state and federal governments on these matters, ensuring your voice is heard where it matters most.
Finally, a reminder that our annual conference is now just weeks away. If you haven’t yet registered or booked your accommodation, now is the time! It’s shaping up to be one of our best yet, and we’d love to see as many of you there as possible.
Thank you once again for all that you do to support this great industry.
For information, please visit our website or call the CICA office.
Brandon Hitch CEO CICA
ENGAGING INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS –WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR
Most businesses in the construction industry engage independent contractors to carry out work. However, doing so is not without legal risk. Businesses operating in the crane industry should be conscious of what to watch out for when working with independent contractors
ONE OF THE MAIN RISKS, WHICH WE explore in this article, is misclassification. Misclassification occurs when a worker is “labelled” as an independent contractor, but is in fact an employee. Employers should be aware of this risk as misclassifying an employee can attract significant penalties under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and expose the business to claims for entitlements by the worker.
To help businesses manage this risk, we have prepared the below checklist to assist in assessing whether a worker is an independent contractor or an employee.
How to determine if an employee has been misclassified?
The approach to determining whether an employee has been misclassified as an independent contractor has changed over the past five years. Historically, courts applied what is commonly known as the “multi-factorial test”, which considered the totality of the relationship between the worker and the principal (employer).
However, in 2022, the High Court of Australia benched the multi-factorial approach in favour of one that focused primarily on the terms of the contract between the parties. This was short-lived, as the Federal Government soon reversed the approach and introduced section 15AA into the Fair Work Act, which sought to legislate the original multi-factorial approach.
Section 15AA sets out statutory guidelines that a court must consider when determining whether an independent contractor has been misclassified. Importantly, section 15AA provides that when considering the “real substance, practical reality and true nature of the relationship”, a court must:
• consider the totality of the relationship
between the individual and the person; and
• in considering the totality of the relationship between the individual and the person, regard must be had not only to the terms of the contract governing the relationship, but also to other factors relating to the totality of the relationship including, but not limited to, how the contract is performed in practice.
Turner v InfraBuild Trading Pty Ltd
[2025]
FWC 813
The Fair Work Commission recently considered whether a worker was an employee or contractor in the case of Turner v InfraBuild Trading Pty Ltd
[2025] FWC 813. The key question for the Commission was whether the worker had been misclassified, because if the worker was found to be an independent contractor, they were prohibited from bringing the termination-related claim.
Background
Mr Turner had been performing work for InfraBuild for almost 20 years. His work generally involved machinery and plant maintenance, as well as facilitating contractors’ on-site work in related activities.
Mr Turner was initially engaged as an employee until InfraBuild decided they no longer needed an in-house employee
to carry out plant maintenance work. Instead, Mr Turner was asked if he was interested in continuing the work as an independent contractor.
Mr Turner then set up his own company – CB Industries – to continue providing plant machinery and maintenance services to InfraBuild. His engagement was subject to a verbal agreement and part was subject to a written contract.
Decision
The Commission determined that Mr Turner was an independent contractor and not an employee. The Commission determined that the evidence supported that Mr Turner was an independent contractor and made reference to the following factors which weighed in favour of his status as an independent contractor:
• Mr Turner established CB Industries as an independent propriety limited company to provide services to InfraBuild.
• Mr Turner, through CB Industries, entered into an independent contractor agreement with InfraBuild.
• CB Industries invoiced InfraBuild for services rendered, rather than for hours of work.
• Mr Turner’s monthly earnings varied, and when he performed additional work, he would invoice for that work.
• Mr Turner was able to unilaterally raise prices for the services provided through CB Industries, and successfully did so during his engagement.
• On occasion, Mr Turner engaged and paid for employees and contractors through CB Industries to help provide services to InfraBuild.
• Mr Turner was told what tasks to
industry to be aware of the risks associated with misclassifying workers because:
• It can impact a workers’ right to bring certain termination-related claims,
• it can expose the business to an underpayment risk, including unpaid wages and employee entitlements such as annual leave, long service leave and redundancy pay,
independent contractor-principal.
While there is no set number of factors that definitively determine whether a relationship is that of an independent contractor-principal or employeeemployer, it is a matter of considering the combination of responses to determine whether the worker is at law a contractor
“While there is no set number of factors that definitively determine whether a relationship is that of an independent contractor-principal or employee-employer, it is a matter of considering the combination of responses to determine whether the worker is at law a contractor or an employee.”
• it can expose the business to significant penalties under the Fair Work Act.
To mitigate these risks, businesses should assess whether a worker has been “mislabelled” as an independent contractor. This assessment should be conducted before onboarding the worker as an independent contractor and at various points during their engagement, particularly when circumstances change. Documenting any change is very important as well.
Caution: Employers must be careful of sham contracting arrangements. In the case of InfraBuild, the worker voluntarily agreed to set up his own business and was not forced to become a contractor overnight. However, if an employer unilaterally
or an employee. In every case, the relevant circumstances need to be weighed and the totality of the relationship considered.
We recommend that employers seek legal advice if they are uncertain about whether to engage a worker as an employee or independent contractor.
Authors: Holding Redlich Partner Michael Selinger, Senior Associate Olivia Lawrence, and Graduate Olivia Vitlich
Disclaimer
The information in this article is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, we do not guarantee that the information in this article is accurate at the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
Images: Holding Redlich.
Olivia Lawrence
Olivia Vitlich
Michael Selinger
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CRANES, AIRSPACE, AND THE LAW: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LIFT NEAR AN AIRPORT OR DEFENCE SITE
Operating a crane near an airport or Defence base in Australia brings significant legal and safety responsibilities.
BREACHING PROTECTED AIRSPACE without approval can jeopardise aircraft safety and expose crane operators, contractors, and project managers to serious legal and financial consequences.
To avoid delays, penalties, or shutdowns, it’s critical to understand how airspace protections work, how crane heights are assessed, and how to plan accordingly.
PROTECTED AIRSPACE
Australia’s airspace is tightly managed to protect the safety of all aircraft –commercial, private, and military. Airspace around airports and Defence Aviation Areas (DAAs) is protected from encroachments by tall structures, including temporary ones like cranes, to ensure that pilots have a clear, unobstructed path for take-off, landing, and emergency manoeuvres.
If crane operations intrude into these areas without proper approvals, there is a risk of collision; of interfering with radar and communications, and these can force changes to flight paths and compromise safety.
Because of this, federal legislation empowers regulators to control the vertical and horizontal space around critical infrastructure.
Protected airspace is defined in legislation and operational guidelines. It typically includes:
• Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS): These imaginary planes slope outward from the runway. Any intrusion into the OLS requires approval.
To avoid delays, penalties, or shutdowns, it’s critical to understand how airspace protections work.
• PANS-OPS Surfaces: These protect the airspace used for instrumentbased landings. They tend to be more restrictive than OLS surfaces.
• C ontrolled Airspace within a certain radius (commonly up to 15 kilometres) of federally leased airports and active Defence sites.
Crane operators need to understand where their crane will sit vertically and horizontally in relation to these surfaces.
MEASURING CRANE HEIGHT:
The Role of the Australian Height Datum (AHD)
A critical concept in assessing risk is the height of the crane above the Australian Height Datum (AHD).
WHAT IS AHD?
The Australian Height Datum is a national vertical reference system based on mean sea level measurements from the 1970s. In simple terms, it is the “zero point” for elevation in Australia, similar to sea level.
Crane heights must be reported in metres AHD, which includes:
• Natural ground level at the site (AHD elevation)
• A ny structural platform or building the crane is mounted on
• Th e crane’s maximum vertical extension (e.g. the tip of the boom or hook at full height)
For example, if ground level is 42 metres AHD, and your crane extends 48 metres above that, your total height is 90 metres AHD.
Even small miscalculations can result in unintended breaches of airspace, so getting this measurement right is essential. Survey-grade accuracy is recommended.
WHICH LAWS APPLY?
Operating a crane that penetrates protected airspace without approval is an offence under multiple pieces of legislation:
For Civilian Airports:
• Airports Act 1996
• A irports (Protection of Airspace) Regulations 1996
For Defence Aviation Areas:
• Defence Act 1903
Image:
Aerodata
• Additional Defence-specific protocols and site restrictions
The laws apply regardless of whether the crane is temporary or mobile, and regardless of whether aircraft are currently flying nearby. What matters is whether your crane enters the protected volume of airspace, even momentarily.
Penalties can include:
• Fines of thousands of dollars per day
• O rders to lower or dismantle the crane
• Referral to CASA, Airservices Australia, or Defence for enforcement
HOW TO APPLY FOR A PERMIT
If your crane could enter protected airspace, you must apply for approval before the crane is erected or lifted.
Key Information Required:
• E xact location of the crane (coordinates or street address)
• M aximum height above AHD
• Start and end dates of the crane’s operation
• Hours of activity (especially important for night operations)
• L ighting or warning markings (for aviation safety)
• P urpose and nature of works
Each airport or Defence site may have different requirements, but most civilian airports use tools like the Protected Airspace Assessment Tool (PAAT) to help operators understand whether a permit is needed.
Application Timeframes:
• C ivilian airports: Submit at least 28 days in advance
• D efence bases: Allow 10 or more business days and expect more detailed consultation
• I n both cases, longer timeframes may be required for tall cranes or complex job sites
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T COMPLY?
Bypassing the approval process is a serious risk, and authorities take it seriously. Penalties for operating in breach of protected airspace may include:
Crane operators need to understand where their crane will sit vertically and horizontally in relation to the various surfaces.
• F ines and sanctions under Commonwealth law
• P roject delays or work stoppages
• D amage to reputation and insurance consequences
• P ossible air safety investigations if a near-miss or disruption occurs Even low-risk mobile cranes have been subject to enforcement where approvals weren’t sought. If in doubt - check.
REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE: Mobile Crane Near RAAF Base
A mobile crane was recently used for a routine lift on a construction site within 12km of a Defence airfield. The boom extended to a height of 60m AHD, which was just above the local obstacle limitation surface.
Because the crane operator assumed a short-term, one-day lift did not require approval, they proceeded without notification. The Defence base reported the intrusion to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), resulting in:
• A n immediate stop-work order
• A formal warning and fine
• A requirement for detailed AHDcertified plans for future operations The lift was delayed by more than two weeks.
PRACTICAL TIPS BEFORE YOU LIFT
• A lways check your crane’s height above AHD - not just its height above ground
• Us e local online tools (e.g. PAAT or airport-specific maps)
• Submit applications early - especially if operating near busy airfields or military areas
• M ark your crane properly - lighting and high-vis markings may be mandatory
• D on’t assume a short duration or mobile lift exempts you from the rules
• D on’t rely on rough estimatesinaccurate AHD values can land you in breach
• S ecure formal approval before starting work
Crane operators and project managers have a duty to understand and comply with airspace regulations; the risks of non-compliance are too great to ignore.
Good planning, clear communication, and a solid grasp of height measurement standards means that crane operations near sensitive sites can proceed safely, legally, and without any delays.
For more information or links to approval portals, head to your State’s page on the CICA website.
Image: Alonso et al. 2020
Unveiled at the recent CANZ Conference in Wellington, Little Lifters is designed to introduce kindergarten and primary-aged children to the fascinating world of cranes and lifting.
LITTLE LIFTERS: INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS WITH BIG IDEAS
Lifting the future starts today.
THE CRANE ASSOCIATION OF NEW Zealand (CANZ) and The Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) have launched an inspiring joint initiative aimed at sparking the imaginations of our youngest learners: Little Lifters.
Unveiled at the recent CANZ Conference in Wellington, Little Lifters
is designed to introduce kindergarten and primary-aged children to the fascinating world of cranes and lifting. The program encourages curiosity, hands-on learning, and early career awareness – sowing the seeds for the next generation of crane operators, lift engineers, and industry leaders.
What began as a bold idea from CANZ Chief Executive Officer Sarah Toase quickly found traction across the Tasman. With CICA Chief Executive Officer Brandon Hitch enthusiastically backing the initiative, Little Lifters has grown into a shared vision that meets a pressing need across both countries: how do we introduce the concept of crane careers to children early enough to inspire real interest?
‘how do we get kids thinking about cranes as a future?’ Little Lifters is our answer – bright, fun, and designed to help members become career ambassadors in schools across both countries.” – Sarah said.
BUILDING CRANE CURIOSITY
Children are natural builders, climbers, and question-askers. Little Lifters taps into that innate curiosity with age-appropriate activities, stories, and play that celebrate cranes as the giant machines that help build the world around us.
Whether it’s the towering cranes on city construction sites, the hardworking machines lifting loads at ports, or the smaller mobile cranes helping in agriculture and energy – children will be introduced to the many ways cranes shape our built environment.
“Little Lifters is about lighting a spark early. When kids see these incredible machines up close or hear stories from people in the industry, it’s often a moment they never forget,” Brandon said.
Images: CANZ
“We kept hearing from members, ‘how do we get kids thinking about cranes as a future?’ Little Lifters is our answer – bright, fun, and designed to help members become career ambassadors in the classroom.”
– Sarah Toase, CEO, Crane Association of New Zealand
DISCOVER HOW CRANES CREATE
The program provides hands-on experiences to help young learners understand the “how” and “why” of lifting.
With a focus on fun and inclusivity, Little Lifters gives every child the opportunity to imagine themselves in a role connected to cranes – whether as an operator, engineer, technician, or safety expert.
THE LITTLE LIFTERS KIT
At the heart of the program is the Little Lifters Kit – a set of vibrant, engaging resources that CANZ and CICA members can use when visiting schools or early learning centres.
The kit includes:
• Colouring-in sheets and pencils
• Stickers and squishy crane toys
• C ertificates to promote belonging
• Access to digital resources, videos, and stories
• Ideas for in-classroom or outdoor crane-themed activities
These kits help members confidently step into schools as ambassadors for the crane industry, bringing along their passion – and sometimes even mini cranes – to deliver memorable and meaningful learning experiences.
FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER: PLANTING THE SEED
The longer-term vision for Little Lifters is about building a pathway – from that first spark of interest through to future careers in the lifting sector.
Lifters taps into that
curiosity with ageappropriate activities,
and
that
By engaging children early, the initiative hopes to normalise the idea of working with cranes and lifting equipment as not just a job, but a rewarding, high-skilled career path. It’s also an opportunity to showcase the diversity and innovation within the industry – particularly important in helping children from all backgrounds, including girls and underrepresented groups, see themselves in the field.
For members, Little Lifters offers a tangible and structured way to give back to their communities and help ensure a strong pipeline of future lifters and leaders.
and enthusiasm, CICA and CANZ have created a unified program that can be tailored locally but backed by a strong, recognisable brand.
The conference launch included the unveiling of the Little Lifters logo, a sneak peek at the activity kits, and joyful images from the popular Wellington Crane Parade –further highlighting how community connection and industry pride can go hand in hand.
GET INVOLVED
CANZ and CICA encourage all members to take part in the Little
“Little Lifters is about lighting a spark early. When kids see these incredible machines up close or hear stories from people in the industry, it’s often a moment they never forget.”
– Brandon Hitch, CEO, The Crane Industry Council of Australia
A SHARED VISION ACROSS THE TASMAN
Launched jointly by Sarah Toase and Brandon Hitch at the CANZ Conference, Little Lifters represents more than just a new program – it marks a significant step in trans-Tasman collaboration to support the future of the crane industry.
This initiative was born out of a shared challenge: engaging the next generation. By pooling ideas, resources,
Lifters program by ordering a kit when they become available, reaching out to local schools, and sharing their crane stories with young learners.
By becoming a Little Lifters ambassador, members help ensure that the lifting industry continues to attract bright, capable, and curious minds –ones who will one day shape the skylines of our cities, power our industries, and move the world forward.
Little
innate
stories,
play
celebrate cranes as the giant machines that help build the world around us.
NZ CRANE HIRE’S ALL-LIEBHERR STRATEGY
NZ Crane Hire made the decision in 2019 to move toward an all-Liebherr allterrain crane fleet, it wasn’t simply about aligning with a leading brand.
IT WAS THE CULMINATION OF DECADES of practical experience, engineering evaluation, and first-hand understanding of what works best in New Zealand’s complex lifting landscape.
Now led by Managing Director William Dobson – an engineer by training and a leader with a deep understanding of both technical and operational realities – the Auckland-based company has carved a niche for itself.
NZ Crane Hire was established in 1999 through the amalgamation of several regional players – Central Cranes, Roebuck Cranes, and other smaller outfits – under the leadership of founders Deane Manley, Steve Handyside, and Ian Roebuck. Over time, the business evolved from a multi-service crane company offering access equipment and tower cranes to one sharply focused on mobile crane hire.
“In 2025, we made the decision to double down on what we do best,” said William. “Mobile cranes are our core. Today, we operate a fleet of 17 cranes ranging from a nimble 13-tonner to a 450-tonne heavy lifter. That specialisation helps us deliver focused, value-added service, especially in technically demanding environments like infrastructure and marine.”
REASON BEHIND FLEET TRANSITION
For years, NZ Crane Hire operated a mixed fleet that included cranes from different manufacturers. But the turning point came in 2019, when the team began evaluating options to replace the existing 450-tonne crane.
“We looked across the market at the time,” William said. “And while other OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) were still
running equipment with designs that hadn’t changed in over a decade, Liebherr stood out as a brand putting real money into research and development. The LTM 1450-8.1 had features none of the others could offer.”
Among those features: 85 metres of telescopic boom, roadability with outriggers installed, VarioBase and VarioBallast systems for adaptive lifting and stabilisation, and advanced safety innovations such as handrails on counterweights and harness points on the boom.
“We could road the crane with its outriggers on. That’s a massive cost and time saver. It can head to site configured as a 160-tonne or 120-tonne unit if needed,” William said. “Compared to the previous crane we had, the Liebherr 1450 is in a completely different league when it comes to utilisation. It’s simply more flexible and operationally efficient.”
More recently, NZ Crane Hire added two more Liebherr cranes to its growing fleet: the LTM 1120-4.1 and the LTM 1030-2.1, both strategically selected to
meet specific lifting demands. “The LTM 1120 was a no-brainer,” said William. “It’s the most powerful four-axle crane in the market today, with reach and capacity that challenges five-axle competitors. What really works for us is that it offers the performance of a 120-tonner but sits in the footprint of a 90-tonne machine. That means fewer permits, easier access to sites, and smoother logistics.”
Unveiled at Conexpo 2020 in Las Vegas, the LTM 1120 features a 66-metre main boom, the longest in its class, along with the advanced Liebherr control systems that allow for flexible configurations and optimised lifting in tight working areas. It’s ideal for work involving tower crane erections, telecommunications infrastructure, and precision industrial lifts.
Alongside it, the LTM 1030-2.1, first introduced in 1997 and widely regarded as the best-selling mobile crane of all time, plays a supporting but vital role in NZ Crane Hire’s operations. “We added another 1030 at the same time,” William said. “It’s
Images: NZ Crane Hire and Liebherr
Andy Cameron, Country Manager, Liebherr New Zealand handing over the keys to NZ Crane Hire Managing Director William Dobson.
Since 2019, NZ Crane Hire has transitioned to an all‑Liebherr fleet, from 13‑tonners to a 450‑tonne heavy lifter.
a proven machine – simple, compact, and incredibly reliable. When you’re working in tight, urban environments, that crane delivers every time.”
One of the biggest advantages of transitioning to a predominantly Liebherr fleet is consistency for operators, maintenance teams, and clients alike.
“If you have a mixed fleet, you’ll always run into problems where some operators can only run certain models. That creates scheduling bottlenecks and increases the chance of mistakes,” William said. “With Liebherr, it’s one system, one interface. That consistency improves safety and efficiency across the board.”
The built-in safety systems on Liebherr cranes were another major factor in the decision.
“They think about operator protection – from handrails on the counterweight base plate to harness points and anti-slip platforms. It’s that attention to detail that speaks volumes about their design process.”
TRUSTED SUPPORT NETWORK
Having advanced equipment is one thing, backing it with responsive, skilled support is another. For William and his team, Liebherr’s service network in New Zealand has been a key differentiator.
“Liebherr is the only manufacturer in the all-terrain space with factorytrained technicians on the ground in New Zealand. We’re not going through agents or middlemen,” he said. “And when you need someone in the middle of the night, like we have in the past, they’re there.”
VarioBase, VarioBallast and roadable outriggers give NZ Crane Hire’s Liebherr cranes more lift options with less setup time.
He shares a telling example: “I remember calling Andy Cameron, the Country Manager at 1am. He was in the service team back then. He drove two hours in the dark to fix a crane on a closed section of highway, then drove home. That kind of support builds real trust.”
Following the retirement of long-time Liebherr figure Tom Curran, William said Andy’s transition into a leadership role has been seamless.
“Tom left big shoes to fill, but Andy has earned our respect over many years. He understands our needs and is responsive, which is exactly what you want in a partner.”
ENGINEERING-LED LIFTING
NZ Crane Hire is a machine rental company and an engineering-led lifting specialist. With a team of about 30, including some who have been with the business since the early days of Central Cranes, the company delivers lift planning that goes beyond the ordinary.
“Our lift planning services range from basic plans to full 3D simulations using AutoCAD and Cranebee,” said William. “We take pride in offering millimetreaccurate planning, especially for complex infrastructure and marine projects where precision is non-negotiable.
“Our customers don’t just hire a crane, they hire a complete lifting solution. The equipment is important, but the planning and execution is where we add real value.”
As part of this collaboration, XCMG successfully delivered to Sarens the first batch of its cutting-edge five-axle 250-tonne all-terrain cranes, the XCA250G7-1E.
XCMG AND SARENS PARTNER
XCMG and Sarens partner to drive innovation in heavy lifting, delivering first batch of advanced cranes.
XCMG MACHINERY CO.LTD, A GLOBAL LEADER in construction machinery manufacturing, has joined forces with Sarens Group, an international giant in crane rental services and heavy lifting, to establish a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the landscape of heavy lifting operations.
As part of this collaboration, XCMG successfully delivered the first batch of its cutting-edge five-axle 250-tonne all-terrain cranes, the XCA250G7-1E, to Sarens. Designed with the European market in mind, the XCA250G7-1E represents a significant milestone in XCMG’s commitment to innovation and excellence in machinery design. Sarens will integrate these advanced cranes into its fleet, enhancing its ability to execute complex lifting projects with precision, efficiency, and reliability. These models will be coming to the Australian and New Zealand markets.
The XCA250G7-1E crane is equipped with several intelligent technologies. Variable support technology can choose 25, 50, 75, or 100 per cent length for each
outrigger according to the construction site, effectively handling limited space or complex terrain. The automatic counterweight hook-up system detects slewing angle and counterweight position, enabling one-button automatic hooking, which simplifies operation and enhances safety and efficiency. Additionally, load telescoping allows the boom to telescope safely with loads up to 40 per cent of rated capacity, expanding the working range and improving efficiency by 30-50 per cent while ensuring lifting safety.
The British customer praised the single-operator intelligent control system for simplifying operations amid labour shortages, with a touchscreen as responsive as a smartphone and premium car-like button feedback.
The German customer commended the crane’s impeccable build, spacious, tech-enhanced cabin, and practical features like birdview, while a Dutch customer highlighted the XCA series’ humanised design, noting its panoramic windshield and
sunken console improved visibility by more than 40 per cent.
“This partnership with Sarens marks a new chapter in our mission to deliver best-in-class solutions for heavy lifting and construction projects,” said Rafael Romao, Sales Director at XCMG Europe. “The XCA250G7-1E is a testament to our commitment to providing innovative, highperformance machinery tailored for the global market.”
The strategic cooperation agreement between XCMG and Sarens lays a strong foundation for long-term collaboration. Both companies will leverage complementary strengths to expand global presence, reduce costs, and drive innovation.
“We’re proud to align with XCMG, a company that shares our vision for innovation and excellence,” said Jan L. Sarens, Board Member and Trade Director of Sarens. “This partnership enhances our capacity to meet growing industry demands and reinforces our leadership in heavy lifting and engineered transport.”
Image:
XCMG
BIG PROJECTS. BIGGER LIFTS. SPARTAN CHOOSES GROVE
Spartan Construction is a well-known name in specialised civil infrastructure. A long-time TRT customer, Spartan has just expanded its fleet with a fourth Grove rough terrain crane.
RECENTLY DELIVERED, THE NEW ADDITION is heading straight to Cambridge, supporting Spartan’s continued success in delivering complex construction projects across New Zealand’s North Island.
ABOUT SPARTAN CONSTRUCTION
Spartan Construction is a civil contractor that thrives in high-spec, multidisciplinary projects, many of which are related to New Zealand’s critical “three waters” infrastructure. Its work includes upgrades and new builds for water and wastewater treatment plants, pump stations, wind farms, bridges, and other large-scale infrastructure.
Joe Fluhler, General Manager at Spartan Construction, explains, “We actively pursue the more specialised projects because they tend to be interesting and complex and require a
higher level of technical capability. Our largest project to date is the Cambridge Wastewater Treatment Plant. We’ve had a Grove rough terrain crane on site every day for more than a year, lifting over 20-tonne panels daily.”
THE SPARTAN
DIFFERENCE
In the civil space, Spartan delivers far beyond its size. While it’s a Tier 2 contractor, its efficient structure and strong hands-on leadership make it a cost-effective and agile choice for small to large-scale projects.
“At the end of the day, you’re talking to real people, not just a machine,” said Joe. “You can still talk directly to the managers. That personal, high-quality service really stands out to clients. We’re here to build great projects for our valued clients”.
GROVE CRANES IN ACTION
Spartan’s Grove crane fleet is a key part of its success. The line-up includes three Grove rough terrain cranes, a GRT81001, a 30-tonne, 70-tonne, and now a new GRT655L model.
The Grove GRT655L rough terrain crane comes with a strong 43 metre fivesection, full power boom providing the reach of cranes typically found in the 65 tonne classes. It also leads the pack with outstanding features typically only found on larger cranes – hydraulically tilting cab, Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS) with ECO mode and class-leading chart capacities make this crane a jobsite winner. The GRT655L’s compact size and footprint ensure that the crane can operate on narrow sites, even with the outriggers fully extended. And just like all GRT models, Grove is so confident in the performance and reliability of the GRT655L that it is backing it with a twoyear standard warranty.
“The 30-tonner supports our mechanical installation work and the lighter tasks, while the 70-tonne is still going strong assisting with mechanical and structural builds,” said Joe. “The new crane has headed straight to Cambridge and will then support a similar project.”
WHY SPARTAN CHOSE TRT – AGAIN
This isn’t the first Grove crane Spartan has purchased from TRT, and it won’t be the last. The company has trusted TRT for years to supply reliable equipment that gets the job done.
“We’re getting busier, and we needed to expand the fleet,” Joe said. “We weren’t sure exactly which model we needed this time, but TRT helped us figure out the best fit. They’ve always
The Grove GRT655L rough terrain crane comes with a strong 43m five-section, full power boom providing the reach of cranes typically found in the 65t classes.
been responsive, and everything’s been delivered on time.”
Joe also credits the TRT team, especially the service crew for providing exceptional support beyond the point of sale. “Whenever we’ve needed help, whether it’s service or advice there’s always someone there to support us.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Spartan has just come through a strong growth phase, and the focus now is on sustainable progress.
“Our plan is to keep building on what we’ve achieved and grow steadily from here,” said Joe. “Having the right gear is a big part of that, and we’re confident in the Grove cranes and the support we get from TRT.”
A SOLID RECOMMENDATION
Would Spartan recommend Grove cranes and TRT to others in the industry?
“Absolutely. From our perspective, Grove has been reliable, comfortable for our operators, and mechanically sound. And the service from TRT has been outstanding. They’ve delivered on everything we’ve asked.”
TRT’s strategy is simple, to out-serve its customers. This means it actively exceeds customers’ needs and delivers solutions that help them succeed.
GROVE POTAIN
Manitowoc Australia 0417 674 019
infoANZ@manitowoc.com New Zealand 0800 878 695 cranes@trt.co.nz
Manitowoc Australia 0407 967 444
infoANZ@manitowoc.com
New Zealand +61 407967444
infoANZ@manitowoc.com
Spartan’s Danny Hall, Brad Wymer, Jonathan Chandler, TRT’s Bruce Carden, and Spartan’s Joe Fluhler.
ENGINEERING PLASTICS: THE SMART CHOICE FOR MODERN CRANE OPERATIONS
In the ever-evolving world of crane and lifting operations, the materials we rely on play a critical role in safety, efficiency, and performance.
ENGINEERING PLASTICS have emerged as a superior alternative to traditional materials like steel and wood in several key crane components. From outrigger plates to wire rope sheaves and wear pads, plastics offer unmatched benefits that are reshaping industry standards.
OUTRIGGER PLATES & DUNNAGE: A smarter, safer foundation
Traditionally, crane operators have used timber for dunnage and steel for outrigger plates. However, engineering plastics are proving to be a game-changer:
• Moisture resistance: Unlike wood, plastics do not absorb water, eliminating the risk of rot and weight gain over time.
• Consistency and reliability: Wood can fluctuate significantly in performance due to varying grain structures –even within the same batch – while plastics offer uniform properties and predictable performance.
• Safety and maintenance: Wood is prone to splintering and cracking, posing safety hazards when handling parts, while plastics are maintenance-free and do not degrade under normal operating conditions.
• Weight advantage: Steel outrigger plates are often too heavy to be manually positioned, requiring lifting aids. Plastic plates, on the other hand, can typically be handled by one or two people, improving setup efficiency and reducing labour costs.
Importantly, the load-bearing capacity of engineering plastics exceeds the requirements for crane outrigger applications.
Lightweight, moisture‑resistant outrigger plates made from engineering plastics are easier to handle and outlast timber or steel.
WIRE ROPE SHEAVES: Extending rope life and enhancing performance
The shift from steel to engineering plastics such as Nylatron GSM and Ertalon 6PLA for wire rope sheaves is gaining momentum – for good reason:
• Extended rope life: Wire ropes running on plastic sheaves experience two to six times longer service life due to reduced abrasion.
• Superior wear resistance: These plastics last two to three times longer than steel sheaves, thanks to their excellent wear and abrasion resistance properties.
• Weight reduction: At just one-seventh the weight of steel, plastic sheaves contribute to increased crane lifting
capacity and easier handling.
• Load capacity assurance: Nylatron GSM and Ertalon 6PLA sheets use plastics that typically exceed crane load requirements. Dotmar’s qualified engineers can verify lifting capacity through detailed calculations.
• Simplified design: In some cases, plastic sheaves can be installed without rolling element bearings, reducing cost, weight and maintenance.
Additional components like cable guides, slap-blocks and rollers made from engineering plastics help prevent wire ropes from contacting crane structures, protecting paintwork and preventing corrosion.
WEAR PADS AND SLIDE BEARINGS:
Smooth, maintenance-free operation
Wear pads are critical in telescopic boom systems, and Nylatron 703XL stand out as a purpose-designed material for this application:
• Zero stick-slip: This unique property eliminates shuddering and ensures smooth, consistent sliding action.
• Low friction and high wear resistance: Nylatron 703XL offers the lowest friction and best wear performance available, extending service life and reducing maintenance.
• Lightweight: These pads are easy to install and require no lubrication, making them ideal for demanding crane environments.
BEARINGS AND BUSHES: From thermoplastics to high-load composites
Dotmar also manufactures bearings and bushes using materials like Ertalon LFX and Nylatron NSM, which are self-lubricating and ideal for most applications where traditional bronze bushes are used. For extreme load conditions, Orkot composite bearings provide exceptional strength and durability beyond the capabilities of thermoplastics.
Dotmar’s engineering team offers advice and engineering calculations and written reports for bearings, wire rope sheaves and outrigger plates and dunnage to ensure optimal material selection and
“Dotmar’s engineering team offers advice and engineering calculations and written reports for bearings, wire rope sheaves and outrigger plates and dunnage to ensure optimal material selection and trouble-free operation.”
MANUFACTURING CAPABILITIES
Dotmar Engineering Plastics boasts extensive manufacturing capabilities across Australia and New Zealand. With multiple CNC (computer numerical control) machining facilities, Dotmar is strategically positioned to deliver precision, custom-
equipped to meet the needs of the crane and lifting industry.
Complementing its machining operations, Dotmar also operates a dedicated plastic injection moulding and tooling division, enabling high-volume production and bespoke tooling solutions. This integrated approach ensures flexibility, quality and efficiency in delivering engineered plastic parts and solutions.
Engineering plastics are not just an alternative, they are an upgrade. With benefits spanning safety, performance, weight reduction and maintenance savings, they are redefining best practices in crane design and operation. Dotmar’s expertise and engineering support ensure that every application is backed by technical assurance and proven performance.
For more information or to speak with a Dotmar engineer, visit www.dotmar.com.au , www.dotmar.co.nz or contact your local Dotmar office on 1800 170 011 (Australia) / 0800 650 75 (New Zealand).
Ertalon 6PLA Cable Rollers.
Plastic wire rope sheaves extend rope life up to six‑fold while reducing weight and maintenance needs.
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POINT. CLICK. LIFT: A NERVE-CENTRE FOR CRANE HIRE COMPANIES
Ian Scott, General Manager, Wide Bay Crane Hire still remembers the patch-work system that once kept Wide Bay Crane Hire running. “We were using magnetic whiteboards, Excel sheets, diaries – plus a lot of back-and-forth phone calls,” he said.
“AS THE WORKLOAD GREW ACROSS OUR four depots, it became harder to stay on top of everything.” That was before May 2024, when the family-owned crane specialist swapped its paper trail for Visual Dispatch’s cloud platform. “Since then, we’ve got busier, and I honestly don’t know how we managed the old way,” Ian said.
A 40-YEAR QUEENSLAND SUCCESS STORY
Wide Bay Crane Hire started in 1984 with one 8-tonne tractor crane and a 20-tonne Kato and a promise to “put safety and quality of service above everything”. From its base in Hervey Bay the business has grown to four depots – Gympie, Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg – and today runs a sizeable fleet ranging from 15-tonne pick-and-carry Frannas to a 230-tonne all-terrain. The company supports everything from house lifts to highway bridges and energy-sector shutdowns, backed by its own transport division for moving equipment between sites.
Ian’s personal journey mirrors that expansion. “I’ve been here for over 30 years,” he said. “I started as an apprentice
From spreadsheets to seamless scheduling – Visual Dispatch keeps Wide Bay’s four depots in sync.
Images: Visual Dispatch and Wide Bay Crane Hire
Visual Dispatch gives Wide Bay complete oversight of every crane, crew and job – all in one view.
Operators receive job tickets, lift plans, and GPS directions direct to their phones, reducing call‑backs.
every crane, truck and crew member on a single screen; approved quotes flow straight to dispatch; and one-click invoicing mirrors the original quote.
Ian spent 18 months searching for software that could handle both allocating and billing. “Plenty did one or the other,” he said. “Visual Dispatch was the first that nailed both.”
ROLLING IT OUT
Implementation began in May 2024. “The schedulers needed the most training, but after six weeks we were working seamlessly – because we’d worked it all out,” Ian said. Even operators who were “not so techsavvy” adapted quickly. “They got it within a fortnight and now they love it. Job details, lift plans, site maps – all on their phone in real time.”
SMARTER SCHEDULING, FEWER PHONE CALLS
The drag-and-drop interface is now Ian’s favourite feature. “If the weather turns, we just pick up the job and drop it into the next slot. No rewriting boards, no lost notes.” That speed translates into better fleet utilisation. “Visual Dispatch gives me oversight of all four depots, so I can shift cranes between towns and make sure they’re being used to their full potential,” Ian said. Field communication has improved as well. Operators receive electronic job tickets that carry lift plans, safety documents and GPS directions. “There’s no more to-and-fro asking a million questions,” Ian said. “The
map function means new hires don’t get lost, and customers can’t dispute time on site because the data is right there.”
QUOTING AND COMPLIANCE BAKED IN
Visual Dispatch’s quoting module has proved just as valuable. The software lets users build “customer-ready templates” in minutes and tie custom pricebooks and overtime rules to each client. “It’s a gamechanger,” Ian said. “I can produce a clear, precise quote in minutes and customers rarely have follow-up questions. Before, I was dot-pointing emails and lumpsumming the hours.”
Compliance is another win. The platform tracks crane maintenance, liftinggear inspections and operator licences, sending reminders before anything lapses. “It’s become a vital part of our business infrastructure,” Ian said. “We’re probably using 60 per cent of its capacity and still saving time.”
COST AND CAPACITY
Quantifying savings is tricky because the business has grown alongside the software. “We’re definitely spending less time on the phone and paperwork,” Ian said. “That frees our staff to focus on other important work – things that add value instead of chasing details.” The system has also helped Wide Bay handle a higher volume of work without adding schedulers.
CUSTOMER REACTION
Clients have noticed the difference,
especially at billing time. “There was a brief adjustment when invoices started looking different, but the feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” Ian said. “We even had clients ring to say the new format ‘looks really good’.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Wide Bay is already exploring more of Visual Dispatch’s capabilities – payroll prep, detailed utilisation reports, even integrating purchase orders. “We’ve only scratched the surface,” Ian said. “But what we’re using today has already changed the way we run the business.”
Ian said he would never want to go back to juggling spreadsheets, diaries and magnetic whiteboards. For companies with multiple depots, he said, the ability to see every piece of equipment and every operator in one view is invaluable. “Visual Dispatch lets us maximise what we’ve got and get the right crane to the right job, first time.”
After four decades in business, Wide Bay Crane Hire shows no sign of slowing. With a growing fleet of cranes, four depots and a service area stretching from the Sunshine Coast to Gladstone, the company relies on fast decisions and airtight compliance. Visual Dispatch delivers both – turning what used to be a logistical bottleneck into a competitive advantage.
“It’s no exaggeration to say Visual Dispatch has become integral to our operation,” Ian said. “Point, click, schedule – then we get on with the lift.”
PREVENTING THE PREVENTABLE: EMBEDDING SAFE LIFTING PRACTICES
EVEN EXPERIENCED TEAMS ENCOUNTER lifting incidents, not due to incompetence, but because routine can mask risk. This article explores how Section 1 of LEEA’s COPSULE, along with Australian safety standards, provides a reliable framework for embedding safe lifting practices.
WHEN ROUTINE BECOMES RISKY
Two fatalities and multiple near-misses in Australia prove that even “routine” lifts carry hidden hazards:
Port Botany, NSW (2021): During yacht salvage, a sling was incorrectly attached to the mast. The mast failed, killing a worker. There was no lift plan, no licensed operator, and no oversight. The company was fined over AUD 1 million, and the director faced personal prosecution.
Lithgow Mine, NSW (2017): A synthetic sling choked over a flange failed mid-lift, with the load striking an elevated work platform. Two workers narrowly avoided injury. The SWMS lacked edge protection and failed to consider safer sling alternatives.
Both cases share a theme: safe lifting is more than compliance – it’s embedded behaviour.
SECTION 1 OF COPSULE: The safety blueprint
LEEA’s Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Lifting Equipment (COPSULE) outlines foundational practices for lifting safety. Section 1 mandates:
• C ompetent leadership and planning
• L oad stability and balance throughout the lift
• D efined roles, rehearsed communication, and emergency procedures
• Stop-work authority for all personnel
The goal? Ensure a lifted load behaves as if it were already safely on the ground – stable, predictable, and under control.
AUSTRALIA’S FRAMEWORK: Legal backing for best practice
Safe Work Australia’s Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace outlines a fourstep process:
3. C ontrol risks (equipment choice, communication, exclusion zones).
4. Review and revise (especially after a near miss or lift variation).
In both Lithgow and Port Botany, hazard identification was flawed or nonexistent. A thorough lift plan, compliant with both COPSULE and Work Health and Safety legislation, could have mitigated these failures.
SLINGING WITH ACCURACY
Australian Standards (AS 4991, AS 2550) and COPSULE reinforce accurate sling use:
• S elect the right sling for the load’s weight, shape, and edge conditions.
• Avoid choking soft slings around rigid or sharp surfaces.
• I nspect slings before use – abrasion, UV exposure, and chemical
degradation reduce strength.
• Us e only certified, tagged slings and hardware.
WorkSafe Victoria issued multiple alerts between 2019 and 2021 about slings failing below working load limit. These were often the result of misuse rather than material faults.
EMBEDDING
A SAFETY CULTURE ON THE
GROUND
Rules are only effective when turned into habits. Lifting safety must be embedded in daily operations.
Visual SOPs: Post clear, visual lift checklists where work is carried out – near cranes, in rigging bays, and on equipment.
Toolbox talks: Use real cases like Lithgow or Port Botany as learning points. Ask: What went wrong? What would we do differently?
Lift rehearsals: Before critical lifts, conduct dry runs. Clarify signals, simulate faults, and rehearse team response.
Near-miss reviews: Encourage reporting and open discussions. A noblame approach to near-misses improves system-wide awareness.
Empowered stop authority: Make it clear that any team member –regardless of role – can call “Stop” the moment something seems wrong.
One Western Australia port reduced near-misses by 87 per cent after introducing a Lift Integrity Checklist – signed off before every lift. Structure replaced assumption.
A SAFER LIFT: Step-by-step
The following step-by-step outline consolidates many of the above principles into each phase of a typical lifting operation:
PRE-LIFT
• C onduct a full assessment using COPSULE guidance.
• Identify hazards, define swing paths, and sketch sling configurations.
• C onfirm load balance and rigging angles.
HOOK-UP
• Visually inspect slings, shackles, and hooks.
• Us e padding for edges.
• Brief all team members on roles, signals, and emergency actions.
LIFT
• B egin with a jog test to check sling balance and behaviour.
• Us e positive verbal or visual signals.
• P ause the lift at the first sign of instability, miscommunication, or interference.
POST-LIFT
• Reinspect all gear.
• L og any wear, damage, or deviations.
• I f anything unexpected occurred, conduct a team review within 24 hours.
WHY RIGOROUS DISCIPLINE MATTERS
Familiar lifts can create a false sense of security. In fact, both incidents described (Port Botany and Lithgow) involved operations that had reportedly been done many times before without incident – leading crews to underestimate the risks. It was precisely this routine familiarity
that bred the oversights: skipping risk assessments, using an improper sling “just this once,” or assuming someone else was watching for trouble. A seasoned operator or rigger might know the right practices, but checklists and standard procedures ensure those practices are actually applied every time, even on a tiring day or a rushed job.
Moreover, safety must be measurable and visible. Regulators and industry authorities consistently cite poor lift planning or breakdowns in communication as major contributors in crane and lifting accidents. In the aftermath of serious incidents, investigations often find that either no lift plan was made or the plan was ignored, and that signals or lines of authority were unclear at the critical moment. These are preventable failings. By enforcing planning, documentation, and communication protocols as strictly
KEY REFERENCES
• S afeWork NSW – Incident and prosecution details for the Port Botany yacht mast fatality (AWB Contractors), including legal outcomes for the company and directoraustraliagovnews. comworkplacelaw.com.au.
• S afe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace, which outlines the required hazard identification, risk assessment, control implementation, and review process for operating plant (including cranes)worksafe.qld. gov.au.
“Familiar lifts can create a false sense of security. In fact, both incidents described (Port Botany and Lithgow) involved operations that had reportedly been done many times before without incident –leading crews to underestimate the risks.”
as we enforce load limits, companies create accountability for safety. It also sends a message to every worker: safety in lifting is not just a personal concern, but an operational prerequisite that is tracked, audited, and enforced.
TURNING GUIDANCE INTO PRACTICE
A lift doesn’t fail because the plan was wrong. It fails when there was no plan, or the plan wasn’t followed.
By blending technical accuracy (in risk assessments, sling selection, and communications) with a disciplined, empowered safety culture, lifting teams can keep routine jobs from turning into tragedies. Every missed signal or unchecked sling is an accident invitation – but every diligent pre-check and open safety conversation is a step toward an incident-free lift.
• L EEA COPSULE – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Lifting Equipment, Section 1 (Edition 9.1, free via LEEA) – fundamental principles for safe lifting operations and load stabilityleeaint.comleea.com.au.
• WorkSafe Victoria – Safety Alerts on soft sling failures (2012 & 2021), warning that soft slings can fail below WLL due to misuse (sharp edges, damage, etc.), and recommending sling selection, protection, and inspection practicesworksafe.vic.gov. auworksafe.vic.gov.au.
• WorkSafe WA Stevedoring Code –Managing Risks in Stevedoring code of practice, highlighting the critical importance of reliable communication during crane operations to prevent dropped loads and collisionsworksafe. wa.gov.au.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ELEVATED WORK PLATFORMS AND TELEHANDLERS IN THE LIFTING SECTOR
FULL ROTATION, FULL POWER, ONE SMART
When it comes to reach, rotation, and all-in-one capability, the Dieci Pegasus 50.21 leads the pack. This heavy-duty telehandler delivers a 360° continuous rotation and a massive 5,000 kg lift capacity, built to take on the biggest jobs in construction. With a lift height of over 20 metres, it combines the functionality of a crane, boom lift, and telehandler into one highly adaptable machine. From tunnelling to tower construction, the 50.21’s range of smart attachments and built-in stability systems ensure precision, safety, and maximum productivity—wherever the job takes you.
Power: 104 kW (139 hp)
TADANO OCEANIA WELCOMES KNUCKLE BOOM CRANES INTO THE MIX
Following the 2024 acquisition of Manitex, a manufacturer of lifting equipment for key industries, including infrastructure, construction, and heavy industry, Tadano Oceania is preparing to release new products to the local market.
THE MANITEX PRODUCT LINE-UP INCLUDES PM knuckle boom crane as well as Valla pick and carry cranes, brands which closely align with Tadano’s strategy of offering innovative, sustainable lifting solutions. Michael Atherden, Tadano Oceania’s Business Development Manager explains what customers can expect to see.
“Tadano’s acquisition of Manitex has significantly increased the availability of product lines that we can offer the local market. Initially, we are concentrating on products which we think will have the biggest impact in Australia and these are designed and manufactured by PM which includes an Italian manufactured range of knuckle boom and vehicle loading cranes. Our Italian factory also manufacture an extensive range of aerial work platforms, including tracked and spider versions. Since the acquisition, we have been preparing the local Tadano business to bring these products under our wing and offer them into the Australasian region,” said Michael.
He goes on to discuss how Tadano will distribute and support the new product range, starting with the truckmounted cranes.
“With the truck-mounted cranes, we will be bringing in the crane units with sales and support heavily driven by
Images:
Tadano
Oceania
The lifting capacity of the PM range is impressive starting at
With
a network of distributors, dealers and crane resellers. We are also establishing a network of installation partners which will work with the distributor network allowing us to focus on promoting the brand to the market and directly to key customers.
“Being a truck-mounted lifting solution, we will bring the product to market in a number of ways. We can sell it as a supply-only to our distribution network or we can provide a ‘supply and fit’ solution where we will take the responsibility for the installation of the
“As more products come online the intention is for Tadano to be the first thought that comes into a customer’s mind. When they need a lifting solution, we want them to think, ‘Let’s see what Tadano has to offer’.”
crane and the adaptation to the truck. In special cases, and depending on the circumstances, we will also consider a turnkey solution for some of the bigger cranes.
“Because of the specialist knowledge required to fit them and the required integration with the factory, if a customer is keen on a large model from the PM range, we would look at providing a oneline solution. This involves us working with the customer and the factory to build the specification and then purchase the truck, complete the installation, and commission the entire unit for the customer,” he said.
“We already have a couple of trusted partners that work with us on our Japanese truck-mounted solutions, and they’ve been with us a long time. We’ll be looking to work with them wherever possible, and we will bring new partners online who share the same values as
Tadano. We have our own technical support team which is well versed in high tech all-terrain and crawler cranes, as well as rough-terrain products and this team will be supporting the products as they launch into the country. We also have our specialist team that deals with truckmounted installations.”
The lifting capacity of the PM range is impressive starting at 3.8 ton-metres all the way up to 150 ton-metres.
“The largest capacity units are big with a maximum combination of 50 metres of reach. But the range goes all the way down to the smaller cranes that you’ll see on the back of delivery trucks for landscaping products or steel house frames and applications like that. The volume market will be in general truck applications that you pass every day, building up towards more specialist applications as the size of the crane increases. We know we are entering into a very competitive space,
factory backing from Tadano and local support from its engineering and after sales support teams, Tadano Oceania is confident customers will have strong trust in the new products and the service and support it provides.
Michael Atherden, Tadano Oceania’s Business Development Manager.
but we are committed to promoting and supporting the brand and taking it to the next level under the Tadano banner. Our experience with Japanese product lines will be carried over and into the new Italian product lines. We will help to educate our new partners where it is needed and we will work together to provide and support the best solutions for our customers. That is the Tadano way,” said Michael.
He’s confident that the local market will respond to the quality and performance of the Italian engineered and manufactured, PM range.
“The Italian market features a number of crane manufacturers which makes for a competitive environment. I have witnessed first-hand how wellorganised and capable the manufacturing facilities are. The team at PM is strong on research and development and there is no doubting the quality of the product. At Tadano, we focus on quality in everything we do and that is our promise to the market. The factory has an annual production of around 1600 units but under the Tadano banner, we will be looking to grow this.”
The smaller crawler aerial platforms are available, but they are not Tadano’s key focus, for now.
“We will be looking to onboard more of the product lines in the near future. They are available, but for now our focus is to set up the distribution and support network for the knuckle boom products. As I’ve said, we understand we are moving into a crowded and competitive sector and yes, it’s another offering in that market, but it is backed by Tadano, a global original equipment manufacturer (OEM) with experience not only in vehicle loading cranes and aerial work platforms, but in a vast array of high technology machines and it is very used to delivering service, parts and support across our vast continent. That’s a big point of difference,” said Michael.
“As more products come online the intention is for Tadano to be the first thought that comes into a customer’s mind. When they need a lifting solution, we want them to think, ‘Let’s see what Tadano has to offer’. We will leverage our ability to be super responsive in different industry sectors providing crane OEM levels of service and support.
“With factory backing from Tadano and local support from our engineering and after sales support teams, we’re confident customers will have strong trust in our products and support. The same applies to our partners; we’re committed to supporting their businesses and delivering whatever they need to offer the best possible lifting solutions and service to their customers.”
THE LIFT SUPERVISOR COURSE
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The course instructors are seasoned professionals who will mentor course participants through real-life scenarios, preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities of a Crane Lift Supervisor.
Career Advancement
Crane Lift Supervisors are in high demand globally. Completing this course enhances employability and opens doors to a wide array of job opportunities and career growth.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including lift planning, load calculations, safety protocols, communication strategies, and legal compliance.
Training Dates for 2025
Scan the QR code to book or to fill out an EOI to help to determine next year's course dates.
Sydney 17-18 September 2025
Adelaide 1-2 October 2025
The course gives participants the confidence and skills to take control of lifting operations safely and effectively.
—Brandon Hitch, CEO, CICA
* Dates subject to change – See CICA Website for latest information
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DIECI’S MULTIFUNCTIONAL ROTATING TELEHANDLERS
The Dieci range of rotating telehandlers offer unparalleled adaptability with 360 degree continuous rotation, seamlessly transitioning between telehandler, aerial platform, and crane functions. Dieci Australia’s National Sales Manager Bob Mules takes a deep dive into the Dieci Pegasus 50.21 explaining why it is such a popular model.
THE PEGASUS 50.21 SURPASSES OTHER telehandlers in reach capabilities thanks to the rotation of the turret, offering 20.5 metres maximum lift height which ensures this model is ideal for the most challenging construction working conditions. With a wide array of available attachments, the Pegasus 50.21 can effortlessly move between functions of a telehandler, crane, and aerial platform, consolidating the needs of an entire construction site into one vehicle. Its user-friendly controls, durable build, and advanced safety features, including a load limiter and height and slew limiters, provide precise control across
construction, mining, tunnelling, and quarrying applications.
Engineered for stability and safety both on level ground and off-road, these machines boast an outstanding self-levelling system, adaptive loading software, and anti-crash technology to mitigate risks posed by challenging construction conditions.
The Pegasus 50.21 delivers unparalleled performance, extreme power, precise movement control, and soundproofing for unmatched comfort.
“The Pegasus 50.21 has a lifting capacity of five tonnes, and a maximum reach of 20.5 metres. It’s been a really popular model for a number of years,”
The Pegasus 50.21 surpasses other telehandlers in reach capabilities thanks to the rotation of the turret, offering 20.5 metres maximum lift height.
said Bob. “As a rotational telehandler it has 360 degrees continuous rotation which enables you to set up like a crane, you can pick up your load and place it on the fourth or fifth storey of a building, or you can turn around and place the load somewhere on the other side of the machine.
“It provides multifunctional performance, not only is it a telehandler, it can be fitted with a man basket and function as an elevated work platform or fit it with a hook and it functions as a crane. Smooth handling is a key feature for the operator and the curved glass on the cab provides outstanding panoramic visibility. The cab also features integrated LED lights for working at night.”
The Pegasus 50.21 raises the bar for onsite safety, featuring intelligent safety systems such as adaptive load control, slew limiters, automatic axle locking and self levelling systems.
“Operator safety and the safety of those working around the machine have been priorities when it comes to the design of the Pegasus 50.21,” said Bob. “As well as the key safety features, we can add cameras to the machine including boom and reverse cameras which stay on all the time. We can also add systems which identify workers or pedestrians that are within the vicinity of the machine.”
From off-road stability to innercity versatility, the Pegasus 50.21 is engineered for total performance – on wheels or outriggers. Dieci’s Italian design ethos shines through in the Pegasus 50.21, combining rugged performance with comfort features including the soundproofed cab, air suspension seat and real-time system feedback via the TFT display.
“With its 20.5 metre lifting height and 139hp of power, the machine puts total control and site efficiency into the hands of the operator. Whether lifting, placing, or manoeuvring at height, the Pegasus 50.21 delivers confidence, control and capability, every time, it’s a tried and tested machine,” said Bob.
The Pegasus 50.21 delivers unparalleled performance, extreme power, precise movement control, and soundproofing for unmatched comfort.
“It provides multifunctional performance, not only is it a telehandler, it can be fitted with a man basket and function as an elevated work platform or fit it with a hook and it functions as a crane.”
He goes on to discuss some of the applications where the Pegasus 50.21 is proving to be the ideal machine.
“The 50.21 is proving to be highly versatile, as it can be used to pickand-carry loads as well as set up on outriggers for the larger, higher placements when needed. With applications across a wide range of projects, we’ve seen it actively used on infrastructure developments and it has become a popular choice among Tier One builders, particularly for tunnel construction, multi-storey high-rise projects, and general construction sites. A number of units are currently operating across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane on major infrastructure and tunnelling projects,” he said.
The Dieci brand has built a solid reputation for reliability, and machines are designed with serviceability in
mind. Service and support have long been a key focus for Dieci Australia.
“We have an 85 per cent parts commonality across our range which makes for excellent parts availability,” Bob said. “The Dieci brand continues to develop a reputation for reliability and is a significant reason why we have such a strong presence in the market. We support our growing fleet with Dieci facilities located in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, backed by national parts and service partner, AWD Australia.
“AWD Australia delivers dependable genuine parts and service maintenance tailored to operational needs to keep equipment performing at its best. Our extensive network of regional approved parts and service agents ensures consistent, reliable after-sales support –no matter where you’re located.”
Images:
Dieci Australia
BRINGING GLOBAL INGENUITY TO AUSTRALIAN WORK SITES
Brisbane-based Altequip launched in January 2024 with a clear goal: to give Australian contractors direct, local access to Socage’s full range of elevated work platforms (EWPs).
THE ITALIAN BRAND, BACKED BY MORE than 40 years of experience in aerial access equipment, found a like-minded partner in Altequip. “We’d already spent six years working directly with Socage, and both sides knew we shared the same passion for the product,” said Curtis Morley, Director of Performance Tower Hire and Altequip.
Curtis’s background operating truck-mounted travel towers through Performance Tower Hire shaped the Altequip business model. Instead of a pure sales outfit, the company built a distribution business that thinks like an owner: cost of ownership, field downtime and operator confidence that drives every decision. The company’s North Brisbane base now houses a dedicated EWP workshop, a growing parts warehouse and factory-trained technicians, backed by direct support from Socage’s engineering centre in Modena, Italy.
• R aptor spider lifts – 18 metre (m), 21m, 24m and (imminently) 35m.
• Ute-mounts – 14m units in country, a 19m variant is currently in engineering for Ford’s new 4.5-tonne Ranger Super Duty chassis.
• Truck-mounts – DJ 32m and 37m on 14t and 16t chassis, plus TJ / TJJ designs at 35m, 47m, 54m and 75m.
Not many brands in Australia can offer that spread, Curtis said. “Our Australian range now spans 14 to 75 metres, covering everything from utemounts to the Raptor spiders,” he said. For special projects, Socage can engineer units to 100m, but Altequip promotes those only on a case-by-case basis.
The diversity lets Altequip serve customers as varied as family-owned signwriters, arborists and electrical contractors to councils and utility
companies through to energy and wind-farm contractors. “Because the machinery sits on common cab-chassis variants, a council workshop already comfortable with vehicles, such as Ford Rangers can integrate a ute-mounted platform without altering its fleet maintenance program,” Curtis said, pointing to the separation between vehicle and boom hydraulics.
ITALIAN ENGINEERING YOU CAN DEVELOP
Socage’s willingness to customise remains a decisive advantage. “I literally took an A1 print-out of the machine, sketched the changes I wanted, and their engineers turned it into reality,” Curtis said. That collaboration has already delivered machine enhancements, such as longer stabilisers for the Australian terrain and a 40m side-reach on the 54m TJ platform – unmatched in its class.
The manufacturer’s vertical integration helps. Over the past two
Altequip offers Socage EWPs from 14 metre ute-mounts to 75m truck platforms, with spider lifts and custom builds up to 100m.
years, Socage bought its hydraulic and electrical-harness supplier, giving it complete control of core components and the freedom to re-engineer quickly.
SERVICE BUILT AROUND UPTIME
Every Socage unit ships with an IoT module that lets Altequip and the factory connect via 4G. “We can log in from Brisbane, and if it’s midnight here the engineers in Italy can still connect and help a customer on site,” Curtis said.
Uptime is reinforced by inventory. “Because we carry the consumables here, most parts reach customers in a day; even unusual components from Italy usually arrive inside a week,” he said. Filtration kits, sensors, rubber tracks and electrical items sit on the shelves in Brisbane, while access to Socage’s European hub covers structural or bespoke items.
Altequip augments its own workshop with service partners in Sydney and Melbourne – legacy relationships from the access-rental sector – and is recruiting support on the west coast ahead of an expected surge in mining and renewables demand.
PEOPLE WHO SPEAK THE OPERATOR’S LANGUAGE
Altequip’s team brings decades of realworld experience to the table, offering practical insight and support that only seasoned EWP operators can provide.
Curtis brings 16 years’ handson EWP experience; National Sales Manager Robbie English comes with 19 years’ experience in the industry; and Service Manager Dylan Vickery, 15 years on the tools. That depth matters when fleets ask nuanced questions about design registrations, wind loading or road limits. Altequip supplies the equipment along with compliance paperwork, can organise finance through a panel of brokers and delivers machines with a tailored operatortraining package.
EARLY WINS AND WHAT’S NEXT
In July, Altequip delivered its first Socage 14m ute-mount – evidence that
the market was waiting for a compact EWP on a car licence chassis. Interest is equally strong in the forthcoming 35m Raptor spider.
Curtis sees Socage becoming “the biggest name in self-propelled and truck-mounted platforms within five years”. Altequip is putting the local footprint in place now – growing headcount, expanding spares and investing in its own future.
The domestic lifting sector has long relied only on a handful of truck-mount suppliers whose catalogues skew to 50m-plus machines. Socage’s range fills the gap above and below, giving hire
businesses and contractors a factorybacked option across the mid-sized working-heights that dominate dayto-day work. Altequip’s service ethos, born out of rental operations, removes the risk traditionally associated with importing niche lifts.
With major infrastructure and renewable-energy projects slated through to 2032, demand for flexible access gear is warming up. Altequip’s strategy – comprehensive product coverage, rapid parts, remote diagnostics and user-driven customisation – positions Socage as a household name on Australian sites.
Images:
Altequip
Compact Socage ute-mounts fit Ford Ranger chassis, giving councils and contractors EWP access without re-engineering their fleets.
Tadano Knuckle Booms
Hit Australian Soil.
The Tadano Knuckle Boom range has officially landed in Australia; launching with a selection of high-demand models tailored to meet the unique challenges of our local industries. When you choose Tadano PM, you’re choosing more than a crane – you’re investing in a smarter, stronger solution built for success. Backed by global strength and local expertise, Tadano PM combines proven European engineering with the trusted support of Tadano Oceania’s expert service network, delivering unmatched peace of mind on every job. Designed for real Australian conditions, PM models feature the practical technology operators actually need- no fluff, just function.
Talk to our team today and discover how Tadano PM can power your next lift.
ELEVATED AMBITIONS WITH NEW ADDITIONS
LinCon Hire and Sales may be best known for running one of the largest fleets of truck-mounted EWPs in the nation, but the Brisbaneheadquartered company is proving it is just as agile as the machines it hires.
FOUNDED IN 2001 BY DIRECTOR COLLEEN Lindores, LinCon has grown from a family venture into a market leader, with almost 150 trucks operating across six states, backed by partnerships with European heavyweights Palfinger Platforms and Barin Underbridge Units, and are also service agents for Bronto Skylift, Maeda and Sennebogen cranes.
This year the company is refreshing and expanding that fleet with two headline additions: six Bronto S34XDT platforms and several new Palfinger P750 units. The strategy, said long-time sales manager Tony Fish, is about “having the right tool for every job, not just the biggest one”.
Tony has been with LinCon for over 20 years, starting as a workshop manager, spending 13 years building machines, and moving into sales seven years ago. His handson experience makes him the link between customers, the workshop, and overseas original equipment manufacturers: “If something gets tricky, I can email the upper management in Europe and sort it.”
FILLING THE GAP
While the market’s appetite for 70-plusmetre work platforms shows no sign of
slowing, Tony believes many contractors are crying out for something more compact.
“The 34-metre unit has a 600-kilogram cage and there’s nothing else on the market that size,” he said. “We’ve ordered six and we’ll spread them around Australia so customers don’t have to book a 75-metre machine for a 30-metre job.”
Delivered on 4×4 MAN chassis, the Bronto S34XDT combines basket, ground and remote controls, giving operators the reach of a mid-sized boom with genuine off-road mobility. Typical applications include telco tower upgrades, distribution line maintenance, tree work and small-span transmission projects. “It means the smaller brands can get gear that matches their budgets and their scopes,” Tony said.
STRETCHING TO 75 METRES – WITH A TWIST
At the other end of the scale LinCon already fields multiple Palfinger P750s and has more arriving early in 2026. Tony is quick to highlight the model’s unique selling point.
At 75 metres with 400 degree basket rotation, LinCon’s Palfinger P750 reaches extreme heights and tricky angles without repositioning.
“Palfinger was the first to offer 400-degree basket rotation, so you can go up, swing over the roofline, spin the basket and work back toward yourself without repositioning the truck,” he said.
The design gives crews a safe working envelope of 38 metres outreach, making it a favourite on wind-farm substations, facade work and high-voltage crossings where setup space is limited. LinCon’s P750s ride on off-road 8x8s – a specification chosen, Tony said, because “we’ll take the platform to the job, not the other way around.”
INVESTMENT CYCLE GATHERS MOMENTUM
Supply-chain delays during COVID forced LinCon to import kit sets and mount them locally, but the program is back in full swing. “We’ve just put three more 75-metre units on the road, two more are on the way, and another two Brontos are in the pipeline,” Tony said. “We’re also building five new 48-metre and three new 25-metre TEC Range platforms while always continually
Images: LinCon Hire and Sales
From compact 34 metre units to towering 75-metre platforms, LinCon’s latest fleet additions cover everything from tight‑access jobs to mega‑project heights.
LinCon’s new 34‑metre Bronto S34XDT packs a 600‑kilogram cage and off‑road mobility, giving contractors big‑boom capability in a compact, budget‑friendly package.
looking to update the fleet with the latest models and technology available”.
Behind the numbers is a deliberate renewal cycle. Older equipment is kept in good condition rather than sold into the domestic market to protect residual values and avoid drops in hire rates. “It’s a small market – you don’t want your own gear coming back to undercut you,” Tony said.
POWERING THE ENERGY TRANSITION
Much of the new iron is already spoken for. LinCon has 10 machines working on the 400-kilometre EnergyConnect interconnector near Wagga Wagga and is supporting similar transmission builds linking New South Wales with South Australia, Victoria and Queensland. “Keeping those lines energised is critical – if they’re down, no one’s selling power,” Tony said.
Live-line capability is another niche the company protects. LinCon operates specialised insulated platforms that are “bare-hand” tested to one million volts every six months at the National Measurement Institute in Sydney.
LinCon’s workshop in Brisbane – staffed by technicians who have trained at Palfinger’s platform headquarters in Germany – handles everything from chassis/subframe builds and adjustments to full major inspection rebuilds meeting all Australian standards. The firm is also exploring the option to integrate proximity-alert systems for future retrofits into the already present basket protection sensors on the Palfinger units.
“We’re always looking at the next layer,” Tony said.
LOOKING AHEAD
With Australia’s renewable-driven grid rebuild gathering pace and maintenance budgets rising across telecoms, utilities and infrastructure, LinCon’s timing appears sound. The six incoming S34XDTs will give regional contractors an alternative to trailermounted cherry pickers, while the expanding cohort of P750s positions the business for mega-projects that demand 70-plus metres of safe reach.
“Our job is to make height access safe and easy, whether that’s 13 metres or 103 metres,” Tony said. “By refreshing the fleet at both ends, we’re making sure nothing is out of reach for our customers – or for us.”
• Family-owned business
• Largest Truck Mounted EWPs in Australia
• Market Leader
• Project Specialists
ZOOMLION BUILDS OUT AUSTRALIANREADY EWP RANGE – BACKED BY SERVICE
Zoomlion is leaning hard into the Australian access market with a broad elevated work platform (EWP) line-up that spans crawler scissors, full-electric “no-oil” slab scissors, narrow electric articulating booms, diesel telescopic booms, vertical mast lifts and telehandlers. It provides options that work well with the increasingly strict environmental and safety expectations on Australian worksites.
“OUR FIRST PRIORITY WASN’T TO FLOOD the market with machines – it was to make sure the service backbone was in place,” said Stephen Li, Sales Director, Zoomlion Australia. “Customers need confidence on parts, response time and tech support.”
Stephen points to an example in regional Victoria where a contractor called through at 5am, and a Zoomlion technician was on site by 7am to clear the issue. “That’s the standard we’re trying to set,” he said. Zoomlion has warehousing in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and authorised service agents so
that “each agent can cover roughly a 100-kilometre (km) radius – we don’t want customers waiting.”
Localisation has been a multi-year effort. Environmental performance is part of that brief.
“We offer both diesel and electric because sites vary, but even our enginepowered gear is designed with emissions in mind. Electrification is moving fast, and we want to give customers choice.”
Zoomlion’s access equipment line-up in Australia has grown steadily over the past few years. The brand now offers a wide range of EWPs designed to suit everything
from indoor maintenance to heavy-duty outdoor construction. The models are tailored for narrow access, low-emission zones, and all-terrain conditions.
We take a closer look at some of the key models Zoomlion is offering the Australian market.
CRAWLER SCISSOR: ZS0612C
For mixed ground conditions – unpaved yards, landscaping installs, early-phase construction – the ZS0612C crawler scissor brings a compact footprint with rubber tracks that spread ground pressure and climb uneven surfaces. Pivot steering improves manoeuvrability, while a clickto-level function simplifies set-up for less experienced operators. Working height is 7.80 metre (m), with 230-kilogram (kg) capacity and a 0.9m deck extension that helps reach over obstructions.
scissors answer a growing demand from data centres, food plants and clean manufacturing spaces where hydraulic oil spill risk is unacceptable. Both the ZS0407E (indoor work height 6.2m) and the larger ZS0607E (indoor work height 7.80m) replace conventional hydraulic circuits with electric linear actuators, eliminating hydraulic oil and cutting leak points to zero. The design also lowers routine maintenance.
NARROW ELECTRIC ARTICULATING BOOM: ZA14NJE / ZA14NJE-LI
When “get there” matters more than straight-up reach, the ZA14NJE narrow electric articulating boom family (leadacid and lithium variants) provides upand-over access with low noise and zero on-site emissions. Working height is 16m with 8.14m horizontal outreach and 7.74m up-and-over clearance, giving trades a way to reach behind obstructions inside industrial sheds or around structural steel. Platform capacity is 230kg.
DIESEL TELESCOPIC BOOM: ZT14J
The ZT14J diesel telescopic boom targets outdoor construction where rough ground, reach and duty cycle dominate. It delivers a 16.6m working height, 12.7m horizontal outreach and dual platform capacities –
300kg unrestricted / 454kg restricted – allowing crews to carry extra tooling when needed. Euro-stage engine options support lower emissions, addressing Tier requirements on regulated projects.
TELEHANDLER CROSS-OVER: ZTH4018
Zoomlion is positioning its ZTH4018 telehandler as a site utility platform that complements EWPs on spread-out, multi-trade projects. Rated capacity is 4000kg with a maximum lift height of 17.6m and forward reach to 13.40m giving contractors one machine that can place palletised loads, handle materials and – via optional work platform, bucket or fork attachments – take on a variety of support tasks.
VERTICAL MAST: ZMP06
Tight indoor maintenance, racking installs and plant fit-outs call for a vertical mast. The ZMP06 answers with a 7.91m work height, 200kg platform rating and a machine width under 0.8m so it can pass through standard double doors and many freight lifts. Warehouse and facility managers can push productivity with fewer emissions and less noise.
LOOKING AHEAD
Zoomlion Australia is still expanding its
FERAQuip brings new 72m boom lift to Australia
Zoomlion has entered a strategic partnership with FERAQuip Sales & Services Group, a well-known Australian supplier of access and construction equipment. The collaboration is aimed at expanding Zoomlion’s presence in the Australian market and delivering tailored solutions backed by strong local support.
A standout result of the partnership is FERAQuip’s investment in a 72-metre telescopic boom lift – one of the tallest of its kind in Australia. The move highlights both Zoomlion’s engineering capability in the high-reach segment and FERAQuip’s confidence in the brand’s quality, safety, and service backing.
This alliance marks a major step forward for Zoomlion in Australia’s access equipment sector. The two companies plan to work closely to provide customers with reliable, highperformance machines that are also safer and more environmentally conscious.
footprint. Stephen confirms additional warehousing and a broader authorised service agent network are in scope, with South Australia next on the radar. The company also continues to adapt specifications to Australian Standards and site expectations as feedback comes in from rental fleets and end-users. “We’re not saying we’re perfect,” he said. “We’re listening, adjusting and trying to respond faster each time.”
Above, L to R models: ZTH4018, ZT14J, ZS0607E, ZA14NJE-Li, ZA10RJE, ZMP06.
PLUGGING IN FOR A CLEANER FUTURE
Height 4 Hire and Global Hire took delivery of the SJ45 AJE+ and SJ60 AJE+ in late-January making the Queensland hire group the launch customer for Skyjack’s all-electric knuckle-boom range in Australia. The zero-emission booms are already earning their keep from Brisbane to Cairns – and Sales Director Global Hire Ryan Creighton said the move was driven squarely by customer demand.
“WE’RE ABSOLUTELY MARKET-DRIVEN,”
Ryan said. “Some tender documents now ask for an electric fleet profile, and certain builders will only shortlist you if you can show genuine low-emission kit. Going green wasn’t a publicity stunt; it was a way to stay in the conversation.”
FROM REGIONAL ROOTS TO STATEWIDE REACH
Ryan co-owns Global Hire, the Cairnsbased business he founded 16 years ago. Eighteen months ago, the company became a subsidiary of Height 4 Hire, Ken Baker’s Queensland-owned and
operated company. This created a fivebranch network – three in South-East Queensland and two in the north – with more than 80 staff and a mixed fleet of roughly 1600 machines. “Queensland’s coastline is packed with medium-rise resorts and apartment blocks,” Ryan said. “Quiet, fumeless access equipment is a genuine selling point when you’re working within ear-shot of hotel balconies.”
WHY SKYJACK – AND WHY BATTERY POWER?
Skyjack’s AJE+ line replaces the diesel engine with an 415 ampere hours (Ah)
AGM battery and high-torque AC drive motors, delivering axle-based four wheel drive. The factory claims each boom will run for a typical full shift, plus 30 minutes of reserve to reach a charger.
“Customers don’t just want a green decal,” Ryan said. “They need machines that will get through a whole day. None of the units have come back flat.”
UNDER THE COWLING – SJ45 AJE+
The compact SJ45 AJE+ keeps its 2.29 metre (m) overall width and 0.61m tailswing, making it comfortable on tight city sites. Skyjack’s SKYRISER™ boom
Images:
Skyjack
Height 4 Hire and Global Hire are Australia’s first to field Skyjack’s all‑electric knuckle booms, from Brisbane to Cairns.
“No emissions, virtually no noise, and you can drive them straight onto polished slabs without marking the concrete – builders see the value and are prepared to pay a premium.”
geometry delivers true vertical lift, while the AXLDRIVE™ 4WD system and oscillating steer axle preserve traction on sloping ground. Ryan said the model is in near-permanent rotation on facades and plant-room maintenance in Cairns’ hotel district.
BIGGER
REACH – SJ60 AJE+
Stepping up, the SJ60 AJE+ offers a 20.29m working height, 11.56m outreach and a dual 300/454 kilogram platform
rating – on a chassis 150 millimetres wider than its smaller sibling. Continuous turret rotation and Skyjack’s SPEEDYREACH™ function let operators return to ground, reload and lift back to full height without resetting the riser. The boom is transportfriendly and keeps the same 45 per cent gradeability for rough-terrain work.
ON-SITE PERFORMANCE AND CHARGE MANAGEMENT
Ryan confirmed that the booms would
give a full day’s work. He said, “So far, we had zero call-outs for machines going flat.” The ability to work indoors or out is turning into a revenue kicker. “No emissions, virtually no noise, and you can drive them straight onto polished slabs without marking the concrete – builders see the value and are prepared to pay a premium,” he said.
FIRST-MOVER ADVANTAGE
Height 4 Hire placed its purchase order as soon as the AJE+ models were announced.
“We were the first buyer in Australia –and we did that deliberately,” Ryan said. “Being first gives us a headline when we talk to tier-one builders and government projects, and it tells our own people that we’re serious about staying ahead of the curve.”
With three of the five depots north of the Tropic of Capricorn, after-sales support was a deciding factor. “Price matters, but in Cairns and Townsville after-market service is just as important. When something stops, you need people who will jump. Skyjack’s response time is the reason we’re happy to pay for the product,” Ryan said.
A BALANCED FLEET STRATEGY
Ryan agrees that electrification won’t make diesel obsolete overnight. “You still need variety – if you can’t offer options you’ll be a dinosaur. Diesel still has more grunt for certain sites, but in softer environments the electric machine wins every time,” he said.
Height 4 Hire has already pencilled in further electric orders for 2026 as major contractors tighten carbon clauses on new projects. The company is also trialling hybrid boom lifts and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)-compatible scissor lifts to round out its low-emission offer.
Queensland’s apartment and tourism pipeline shows no sign of slowing, and Height 4 Hire’s first-mover leap into battery knuckle booms positions it neatly for the next wave of “quiet” construction. “We’ll keep buying diesel where it makes sense,” Ryan said, “but the future of city and resort work is electric, and we’re ready for it.”
Skyjack’s AJE+ booms pair high‑torque AC drive with long‑life AGM batteries, delivering a full day’s work with zero emissions.
SJ45 AJ+ AND SJ60 AJ+ ROUGH TERRAIN ARTICULATED BOOMS REMAIN SIMPLE AND RELIABLE, WHILE OFFERING A COMMON SPECIFICATION RANGE WITH DIESEL, ALL-ELECTRIC AND HYBRID-ELECTRIC MODELS. A SUSTAINABLE CHOICE FOR RENTAL.
DIESEL BOOMS ALL ELECTRIC BOOMS
HYBRID ELECTRIC BOOMS
HYBRID ECONOMICS:
WHY NIFTYLIFT’S BOOM LIFTS GIVE HIRE FLEETS MORE FOR LESS
Construction budgets are tight and sustainability targets unforgiving. Equipment has to do more than reach height – it has to earn its keep. That business calculus is behind Niftylift Australia’s rapid push into hybrid access platforms, said John King, Managing Director of Niftylift Australia.
“WITH THE HYBRID YOU CAN USE IT OUTSIDE as a rough-terrain diesel machine, then take the same unit straight inside as a zero-emissions machine,” John said, describing the easy transition from slab pours to internal fit-out without a changeover penalty.
Traditional diesel elevating work platforms (EWPs) often sit idle once the structure is closed in. Purely electric units struggle when there’s no reliable charging infrastructure. Hybrid bridges that gap.
Higher utilisation also translates directly into stronger rental margins.
“An electric machine ties you to daily charging and power on site. With a hybrid you’re getting better utilisation
because it works in all applications,” John said. “You’re seeing better returns on investment because the fleet is earning every day, not just on clear-air jobs.”
THE FLEET IN FOCUS
Niftylift’s hybrid line-up runs from the nimble HR17 Hybrid 4×4, which delivers a 17-metre (m) working height and 9.4-metre outreach from a 5-tonne (t) chassis, through the versatile HR21 Hybrid 4×4, stretching to 20.8m with 13m of reach while just 6.5t – light enough for a standard tilt-tray – to the flagship HR28 Hybrid 4×4, offering a 28m working envelope and 19m of outreach – still the lightest machine in its class at about 14.6t.
The three models share Niftylift’s patent “Diesel+Electric” drive line with 40 per cent gradeability, SiOPS® operator-protection and full-time four-wheel drive, giving hire fleets a single platform family that moves seamlessly from rough-terrain steelwork to zero-emission indoor fit-outs without compromising performance or transport costs.
Under normal travel the Stage V diesel produces around 18 kilowatt (kW); on steep grades the electric motor automatically augments output to 26kW, giving diesel-like torque without upsizing the engine. When site rules demand silence or zero emissions, operators can
The HR17 Hybrid 4×4 delivers 17m working height and 9.4m outreach from a 5‑tonne chassis.
switch to battery-only mode and still call on roughly 22kW of traction power.
ENGINEERING OUT THE BALLAST
A common industry myth is that hybrids are heavier than diesel cousins once the battery pack is factored in.
“It’s still 6.5 tonnes whether you choose diesel-only or the bi-energy version of the HR21,” John said.
Weight neutrality is possible because Niftylift starts with a lighter chassis.
“Some manufacturers just throw weight at a machine – we throw engineering at it,” he said, pointing to higher-grade steels and finite-element design that trims unnecessary mass. The payoff is immediate:
• Cheaper transport – “With the HR21 most competitors need a float; we can tilt-tray it, so you’re saving transport dollars and not blocking streets,” John said.
• Access to suspended slabs – Contractors on Sydney’s Central precinct have craned multiple HR21s onto mid-level decks precisely because they stay under slab loading limits.
POWER-TO-WEIGHT AND FUEL ECONOMY
Because hybrids deliver 26kW peak from a smaller diesel block, fleets burn less fuel per hour while maintaining gradeability. And when the engine is idling or using a low energy function extra power is stored in the batteries via the electric motor.
Smaller engines also mean smaller service bills.
“You can use a smaller diesel engine,” John said, which translates to lower oil, filter and DEF (deferred establishment fee) costs over the machine’s life.
SUSTAINABILITY THAT ACCOUNTANTS CAN COUNT
At just 6.5t, an HR21 contains roughly two tonnes less steel than many rivals. “Every tonne of steel produces about 1.5t of CO₂, so the carbon saving starts before the machine ever leaves the factory,” John said. Niftylift also refurbishes end-oflife units, closing the materials loop and preserving resale value.
Add the ability to work on electric power in tunnels, hospitals and data
centres – sites where diesel exhaust is either banned or heavily penalised – and hybrids not only pass environmental and social governance (ESG) audits, they unlock projects that pure diesels simply cannot service.
COUNTING THE DOLLARS
A simple hire-fleet model illustrates the advantage. Suppose two 60-ft booms are on weekly hire:
1. Conventional diesel – earns revenue during external steelwork (weeks one to three), then sits idle until façade completion (week eight).
2. Niftylift HR21 Hybrid – works the same external weeks, moves straight inside for mechanical/fit-out (weeks four-10) because it can run on battery. Over a 10-week schedule, the hybrid can bill seven extra weeks. Even at a modest hire rate, that’s a big increase in revenue per unit, per project. That should dwarf the hybrid purchase premium.
BOTTOM LINE
For fleet owners balancing utilisation, transport costs, environmental compliance and residual value, Niftylift’s hybrid boom lifts stack the numbers in their favour.
Lighter, quieter and flexible across diesel and electric duty cycles, they spend more time on-rent and less time on floats – delivering the sort of return on capital that keeps accountants, site managers and sustainability officers equally happy.
At just 6.5t, the HR21 Hybrid 4×4 offers 20.8m reach, tilt‑tray transport and zero‑emission indoor capability.
The HR28 Hybrid 4×4 delivers a 28m working envelope and 19m outreach while remaining the lightest in its class at about 14.6 tonne.
MONADELPHOUS POWERS PILBARA WITH FIRST ELECTRIC CRANE
Monadelphous, in collaboration with MCT Equipment, has introduced its first electric crane to its fleet, supporting Western Australia’s low emission future. This milestone marks a significant step in the company’s journey to modernise lifting operations and drive loweremission practices across the resources, energy and infrastructure sectors.
THE JMG MC250 CRANE IS SET TO BE deployed to a Monadelphous customer site and is the first of its kind to service the resource industry within the Pilbara region of Western Australia, supporting sustainable practices in one of the state’s key mining regions. Supplied by JMG Cranes, the unit was secured by MCT Equipment, the exclusive Australian distributor of the Italian manufacturer’s electric crane range.
The JMG MC250 is a 25-tonne capacity electric pick and carry crane, fully batterypowered, delivering up to eight hours of
continuous operation, has a 15-metre hook height, and 10.7-metre working radius. Its telescopic boom, advanced LMI system, and front-wheel drive with counterrotation provide outstanding flexibility and manoeuvrability on site.
Lorna Rechichi, Heavy Lift General Manager at Monadelphous said the company selected the MC 250 as a high-performance electric alternative to fossil fuel-reliant pick-and-carry cranes, as it continues to review and bring into use alternative lifting solutions.
“Monadelphous recognises the important role we have in minimising the impact of our operations and contributing to the sustainable management of the unique environments where we operate,” Lorna said. “Replacing fossil fuel-reliant pick-and-carry cranes with electric alternatives is a practical way to reduce emissions in everyday operations – without compromising performance.
“This is not just an investment in our fleet – it’s a strategic move that reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability
Images:
Monadelphous
The JMG MC250 secured by MCT Equipment, the exclusive Australian distributor, is a 25-tonne capacity electric pick and carry crane, fully battery-powered, delivering up to eight hours of continuous operation, has a 15-metre hook height, and 10.7-metre working radius.
and supports the delivery of our decarbonisation goals.
“The resources industry is undergoing a major transformation, and electrification is emerging as a powerful enabler. Electric alternatives like this crane not only reduce emissions – they also offer operational and safety advantages.”
The arrival of Monadelphous’ first electric crane, set to make its debut at a Fortescue mine site in the Pilbara, marks a significant step in the company’s broader effort to green its fleet and help its customers advance their decarbonisation journeys while maintaining high performance and reliability.
Fortescue’s Director of Mining Operations, Steve Cole said, “It’s fantastic to see Monadelphous taking tangible steps to support the decarbonisation of the mining industry. We’re excited to welcome the crane to site and see it in action in the Pilbara soon.”
It will be deployed on customer sites over the coming months, supporting projects that align with Monadelphous’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals and those of its customers.
“This collaboration underscores the strength of the partnership between MCT Equipment and Monadelphous, combining expertise and shared values to drive innovation in the lifting industry,” said
Anthony Grosser, Managing Director of MCT Equipment.
With this type of machinery used extensively throughout Europe, this is an exciting move towards more sustainable operations in the Pilbara. “Bringing this crane to Australia is a great opportunity to test its capabilities in the Pilbara environment, to learn and collaborate on improvements,” he said.
MCT EQUIPMENT’S ELECTRIC OFFERING
MCT Equipment proudly offers the full suite of JMG Electric Cranes to deliver cleaner, smarter machinery built for the future. The full product range introduces a Radio Remote-Controlled range, with capacities from 2.5 tonne to 70 tonne, designed to perform optimal manoeuvres in narrow spaces, ensuring total safety of movements for operators.
The Cabin-Cruise range with capacities from 8.5 to 70 tonne and Lige range with capacities from 4 to 12 tonne, offers direct control options and electric batteryoperated pick-and-carry capabilities for agile and precise performances, even in confined spaces.
The Carry Deck range, with capacities from 10 to 50 tonne is designed to meet the need for agility and control, with an articulated telescopic boom making them ideal for industrial maintenance.
Additional features for the full range include:
• M ultiple attachment options such as a mechanic jib, hydraulic jib, hydraulic winch, hydraulic fork, glass manipulator, vacuum, man bucket, and more
• T hree settings on the boom head – 0, 40, and 80 degrees
• R adio-remote control options for enhanced operator convenience
• O nboard high frequency battery charger for efficient charging
• Telemetry for monitoring and tracking performance
• N on-marking tyres to prevent floor markings
• R emovable counterweights
• C ounter rotation on front wheels including 180-degree rear steering
Additionally, the Telescopic Forklift range, with a capacity of 12 tonne, is compact and easy-to-handle designed to integrate the 8 tonne hydraulic fork and the 12 tonne max capacity. Completing the product line is the Lifter range with capacities from 400 to 900 kilograms, featuring an innovative steering system that guarantees agility, precision, and simultaneous movements.
Compact and easy to manoeuvre, these lifter cranes are fully dismountable and therefore easy to transport.
The arrival of Monadelphous’ first electric crane, set to make its debut at a Fortescue mine site in the Pilbara, marks a significant step in the company’s broader effort to green its fleet.
As highly experienced Travel Tower and Spider Operators ourselves, we know firsthand the importance of quality and reliability when working at heights. Altequip is proud to bring the premium Italian brand Socage’s EWP products to the Australian market.
This includes their innovative range of Raptor Spider machines, which deliver exceptional lifting capacity and versatility up to the impressive Truck Mounted TJJ100 100m.
MACHINES FROM 14M TO
SANY ROUGH TERRAIN TESTED TO THE MAX
New to Australia and with a number of features including 47m of main boom, the SRC900T compares favourably to competitive brands in its class.
Max Services recently took delivery of a Sany SRC900T rough terrain from National Distributor Tutt Bryant Equipment. The rough terrain features a lifting capacity of 90 tonne and 47 metres of main boom. Research and industry feedback from existing customers provided Max Services with the confidence to purchase the Sany.
THE SANY SRC900T WAS PURCHASED TO replace an existing Max Services unit which had been operating on a mining project. The Sany SRC900T went straight into direct employment and the performance and capabilities were immediately welcomed by Max Services. The feedback from the operators has been positive and the crane is performing well and fulfilling all the tasks required of it.
The Sany SRC900T rough terrain crane is new to the Australian market. With a number of features including 47 metres of main boom, the SRC900T compares favourably to competitive brands in its class.
which can be hydraulically extended. The operator has a hi tech tablet screen for the computer systems, and the functionality of the crane is very simple and smooth as a result of the joy-stick control system.
The rough terrain has been designed with the operator in mind, and features a tilting cab and an automatic sidestep
A standout feature for the SRC900T is the 12.2m – 47m U-Shape full power boom which includes a double cylinder and rope telescoping capabilities. The U-Shaped boom is 10 percent stronger than booms on competitive products. The overall boom weight has been decreased compared to previous models, but stability has been increased. The boom and telescoping system include a bending resistant structure which has resulted from the welded high tensile steel plate.
The boom features a jib 10.5-18m
bi-fold swing-away mounting system designed to increase the efficiency of the jib out process which now only needs one person. It takes 15 minutes to unfold and retract the jib with an experienced operator. This can save up to 50 percent of time compared to some other designs.
The optimised structure of the new design assists the jib mounting and operation.
The team at Max Services was impressed with the support it received from Tutt Bryant Equipment.
Throughout the sales process it was supported by Phil Chadwick before his retirement, and he shared his significant amount of knowledge about the product and industry requirements. The predelivery process was conducted by the local Tutt Bryant Equipment branch
Images: Sany
A standout feature for the SRC900T is the 12.2m –47m U-shape full power boom which includes a double cylinder and rope telescoping capabilities.
and this was completed in a timely manner. When the crane was delivered to Max Services’ Port Augusta facility, Tutt Bryant completed maintenance training and operational/VOC (volatile organic compounds) training over a few days. Max Services had one of its own crane technicians look over the crane and was happy with how it presented and impressed by the functionality of the operating system.
The new generation operators cab features newly designed Full-Vision windscreen which ensures safety and comfortable operation. The cab is wider, with a more comfortable interior and a new generation of smart control system. The tiltable cab can vary from zero to
20 degrees during operation for more comfortable and safer control of the lift. It enables the operator to clearly see where the load is in relation to the crane and also the working environment around them.
The Smart Control and advanced display from the 26.5 centimetre touch screen, inserted with optical sensor, can automatically adjust the lightness of the screen. The Smart Control features controls, displays and sensors which meet industrial safety standards from Europe and the USA. These ensure safe, stable and effective operations. The full set of sensors ensures prompt information feedback and real- time monitoring of the crane’s working condition. The human-
machine interface is well-designed to provide abundant and clear information. The operator can set the crane according to their operating routine and the working conditions.
The Sany SRT900T is powered by a Cummins in-line six-cylinder diesel with watercooler and intercooler. The engine is compliant to emissions standard: EU Stage III A. It also features a 350-litre capacity fuel tank.
The Sany rough terrain also features six forward gears, six reversing gears and a large speed ratio range which is adaptable to slope climbing or relatively high-speed travelling. The transmission shaft has an optimised layout, designed to provide a higher torque output via 8.5C flange connecting transmission shaft.
Both the front and rear Kessler axles are drive axles and can steer. Two-stage reducer gear and more compact axles contribute to a more comfortable drive for the operator. The hydro-pneumatic suspension features hydraulic locks. Again, this contributes to a more comfortable operating environment and greater lateral vehicle stability, regardless of the terrain.
Steering includes four steering modes: front-wheels steer, rear-wheels steer, 4×4 and crab steer, with all axles steered hydraulically. All wheels have hydraulic braking with double circuit split system. The service brake has a double circuit braking system, with hydraulic disc, providing better braking ability.
The slew lock pin for the upper structure is hydraulically operated, so there is no pin to drop in and out as is the case with other models and brands.
The 47m of main boom is the same as other 90t and 100t capacity rough terrains from other brands. The electrical system is powered by a 24V DC power supply and the power to the chassis can be cut manually. Its own strong logic realises self-diagnosis, integrated displays and self-protection.
The hydraulics contain a quality oil pump, motor and valves which provide a stable and reliable hydraulic system. The luffing, telescoping and hoist winch systems adopt open systems.
EXPERIENCE AND TRANSPARENCY KEYS TO SERVICE GROWTH
Adam Counihan is the Lead Technician for the New South Wales operation of Complete Crane Services (CCS). He has been in the crane industry for the best part of 10 years working for Liebherr in a number of countries. Adam explains why he has moved to CCS and why he thinks the business is experiencing such dynamic growth.
“MY FATHER IS A CRANE OPERATOR SO I was pretty much born into the industry. From when I could walk I was pretty much climbing into and out of cranes, so I guess I was always destined to be working in the industry,” said Adam.
“I started with Liebherr in September 2015 and soon moved to London where I did my apprenticeship. From there I was working and travelling between the UK, Ireland and Germany with a little bit of travel around Europe and always with Liebherr.
“I moved back to Ireland where I finished my apprenticeship to be a field service technician and then COVID hit and work sort of stopped. Thankfully, Liebherr Australia offered me a job and got me over here during COVID.”
Adam explains how well trained he was by Liebherr, why he joined CCS and what his role entails.
“Obviously with my background, Liebherrs are my specialty but at CCS we work on all machines and all brands. Throughout the apprenticeship I pretty much lived in Germany because you are in the factory every couple of weeks receiving basic training through to the most technical training on the operating systems or specific machines. You were always doing some sort of training to understand the crane from top to bottom and everything in between,” he said. “I have been very happy with the move to Australia. I’ve always been a traveller but from the moment I stepped foot on Australian soil I knew that it was for me, there was something that felt right about it. I joined CCS in January of this year, but I’ve been dealing with Josh John and the boys over the past few years, helping them where I can with technical support on the phone and face to face when required.
“I’m the Lead Technician for New South Wales, which means I pretty much help with technical support, organise jobs and help with field service as well. I’m in the workshop too coordinating jobs and helping the technicians with whatever comes through the door. The main reason I moved to CCS was to work with Josh. I’ve dealt with him a lot over the past few years and our friendship has grown massively. The opportunity to join the company’s Sydney
Adam Counihan, Lead Technician for CCS Sydney.
operation and help with the growth of the business was too good an opportunity to turn down,” said Adam.
The team at CCS has been quick to impress the Sydney market with its responsiveness and quality of service it provides. In turn, this has led to dynamic growth which hasn’t surprised Adam.
“Simply put, no is not an answer within the business, it’s a yes to everything. We’ll give anything a go and if it doesn’t work, we’ll find a solution. No idea or suggestion is too big or too crazy, we’ll give everything a go. Our yard is in Wetherill Park, Western Sydney but within a couple of weeks of operating we had technicians travelling to Queensland, covering most of the East Coast in between and flying back and forth to Western Australia to help out in Karratha as well.
“We’ve also been down to the Snowy Hydro 2.0 on the border with Victoria, so we are travelling a lot, covering and helping out wherever we can. Having a team with this ‘can do’ mentality is helping the business to grow, and clients are seeing that wherever our team is needed we’ll be there,” said Adam.
There is plenty of experience in the CCS Sydney team. Adam worked with Workshop Manager Nathan Demanuele at Liebherr, his brother Charlie, and long-time colleague Kear Sullivan, who has become like a brother to Adam and Charlie over the
“Simply put, no is not an answer within the business, it’s a yes to everything. We’ll give anything a go and if it doesn’t work, we’ll find a solution.”
years of working together. All are valued members of the team.
“Obviously, Nathan and I have a very good relationship having worked together at Liebherr for some time. It was an easy decision to say yes with Nathan joining and I’m glad to be working alongside my brother, who is also from Liebherr,” said Adam. “Some team members are trained in access equipment, but the majority have come from crane OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and they are factory trained.
“The more experienced team members are very happy to share their knowledge with the apprentices we have in the organisation and there’s a great opportunity to always have one of the apprentices paired with an experienced technician. Whether we are going to change a light bulb or conduct a technical diagnosis on a crane that’s broken down, we try to have and apprentice ‘shadow’ the technician to gain that experience. When you’re thrown in at the deep end you quickly learn to swim.”
Adam said the junior team members are encouraged to ask questions and are confident with the backing of the senior team members.
“Communication is kept open so the younger members are not afraid to ask questions – which is encouraged. There is no such thing as a dumb question at CCS,” he said.
“It is still early days, but we are quickly building a reputation for being transparent with the customers we deal with. From the second they drive the crane through the gates of the yard, they know what they’re getting. Nothing is hidden and they are experiencing the high quality of our service as well as developing relationships with the team. That is our strongest suit and is what is helping the business grow so quickly.”
‘Brothers in arms’, Charlie, Adam and Kear.
MAEDA’S PROVEN RELIABILITY AND INNOVATION
Sam Mumtahan has been operating Mini Crane Hire Sydney since 2014. The business dry hires Maeda mini crawlers to Sydney’s construction and building sectors. Sam recently took delivery of a Maeda MC305C-3 and explains what impresses him about the brand and national distributor Pace Cranes.
“WE’VE BEEN DRY HIRING MAEDAS FOR over a decade now. We work mainly with the commercial builders in Sydney and the bulk of the work the Maedas are doing involves the installation of curtain walls and commercial glass in high rise construction. I first came across the Maeda brand when I was in an aluminum business, and we occasionally needed a crane to lift glass into place on projects. I was working on a site and saw a Maeda in action and thought it was an innovativelooking crane with plenty of potential and so I called Pace Cranes, and they told me to come and visit their yard, which I did.
“During that initial meeting I bought a 2006 model, and it has proved to be the best investment. It’s been really reliable, and my customers liked it from the start because it has been able to get to places other cranes couldn’t. They have also
commented on how easy it is to set it up, taking less than five minutes, and they were happy with how well the crane lifts and how reliable it is. Even though it has done plenty of hours the engine just keeps going. I am very happy with the Maeda product,” said Sam.
The Maeda MC305C-3 is a compact crawler crane and despite its small size, it is very powerful – making it perfect for hard-to-access locations. It features a load capacity of up to 2980 kilograms at 2.5 metres and a maximum working radius of 12.6m lifting 0.26t with a maximum lifting height of 12.5m. It’s only 1.28m wide, has a maximum lift height of 12.52m, folds down to a height of 1.695m and is 4.195 in length, making it easy to transport. It also features an Outrigger Interlock System, programmable Moment Limiter 4 Fall/2 Fall Hook Block, digital feedback, remote
control, data logger and an EU Stage V compliant engine.
“I’ve got a number of Maedas in the fleet and with each model I’ve seen improvements as new technology has been included,” Sam said. “The big difference I’ve noticed has been with the introduction of new computer technology and how this helps the operator set up the crane for lifts and provides information about lifting safely and efficiently. It helps with the outriggers for example, providing the operator with the ideal set up before he starts the lift.
“The Searcher Hook is another feature I’ve been impressed with. The charts of the Searcher Hook are impressive, and it allows operators to get up and close into tight areas not possible with the single fall hook. It enables access and tight tolerances which wouldn’t be possible without the
The Maeda MC305C-3 i features a load capacity of up to 2980kg at 2.5m and a maximum working radius of 12.6m lifting 0.26t with a maximum lifting height of 12.5m.
“They are high-quality cranes, easy to operate, lift in places other cranes simply can’t get to and when you factor in the support and service provided by Pace Cranes, buying and hiring Maedas mini cranes is a bit of a ‘no brainer’.”
compact nature of the Maeda combined with the Searcher Hook attachment. Everything about Maeda spells quality.”
Sam goes on to discuss his relationship with the team at Pace Cranes, national distributor for Meada mini crawlers.
“The team at Pace Cranes are some of the best people I have had the pleasure of dealing with, they are very reliable, they do what they say they are going to do. If I ever have an issue with any of the cranes or they need a service, whatever it is, their mechanics turn up the next day and even sometimes the same day, to help you out and get the crane back up and operating as soon as possible.
“As any crane owner knows, there is nothing more frustrating than having an expensive asset sitting around waiting for a spare part and not earning. The service and support from Pace Cranes has always been second to none, and I would recommend them to anyone,” he said.
Sam’s Maedas vary in capacity starting at 2.8 tonne through to a four-tonne capacity with the Maeda 405.
“Obviously, my business depends on the construction and building sectors, sometimes the cranes are out on hire for weeks on end and other times, when the sectors are quiet, they can sit around for a while,” he said.
“I’ve invested in a couple of models which have both diesel engines and a battery electric option. As the construction sector looks to reduce emissions on building and construction sites, we will be ready with these models.
“As I’ve said, the feedback we get from our customers has always been
really positive. When I visit other sites, the huge majority of mini cranes I see are Maedas –which is no surprise. They are high-quality cranes, easy to operate, lift in places other cranes simply can’t get to and when you factor in the support and service provided by Pace Cranes, buying and hiring Maedas mini cranes is a bit of a ‘no brainer’.”
The Maeda MC305C-3 also features an Outrigger Interlock System, programmable Moment Limiter 4 Fall/2 Fall Hook Block, digital feedback, remote control, data logger and an EU Stage V compliant engine.
Images:
Sam Mumtahan has been operating Mini Crane Hire Sydney since 2014.
DELPHI MEASUREMENT’S AUSTRALIAN‑ MADE LOAD CELLS GAIN MOMENTUM
Delphi Measurement sits in a modest workshop on Queensland’s Gold Coast , but its influence reaches far beyond the factory floor. Mike Leonard, Managing Director at Delphi Measurement, highlights the company’s unique position as one of the few load cell manufacturers remaining in the domestic market.
Delphi Measurement’s Australian‑made load cells are reaching more worksites through its new partnership with the Global Lifting Group.
ESTABLISHED IN THE 1980S AND ACQUIRED BY ITS current owners in 2013, Delphi Measurement brings over four decades of expertise in load cell design and manufacturing. Specialising in load cells, load pins, tension cells, and force measurement systems, Delphi supports lifting, mining, and industrial applications. With strong exports to Australasia, Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the USA, the company offers custom sensor solutions tailored to specific project needs, in addition to its standard range.
Its off-the-shelf 103 and 104 series tension cells now serve as a cornerstone of its partnership with the Global Lifting Group (GLG), a leading organisation in the lifting industry.
Formed in 1997, the Global Lifting Group currently has 15 rigging, lifting and height-safety businesses operating across Australia. Members pool their knowledge, share compliance standards and meet three times a year to review market trends and new technology. The alliance represents the interests of many of Australasia’s leading lifting, rigging and height-safety suppliers.
For Delphi, the partnership evolved organically. “Because many GLG members operate in the lifting space, and our products are purpose-built for that sector, the partnership feels like a natural fit,” Mike said. Over the past decade Delphi had supplied individual GLG outlets on an ad-hoc basis; today the recently formalised, broader relationship is already paying off.
Ben Fitzgerald, co-director of GLG member Queensland Rigging Hire, underlines this point from the customer side. “When we started Queensland Rigging Hire, Delphi was there from day one. They gave us great pricing, solid advice, and went out of their way to support us – not just as a supplier, but as a partner. Nearly nine years on, we’ve got close to 80 of their load cells in our fleet, and we still work closely with them on custom builds and product development,” he said.
COMPETITIVE PRICING THROUGH COMBINED VOLUME
The partnership of Delphi and GLG highlights the power of collective volume.
A GLG partnership is putting more of Delphi Measurement’s locally built load cells into the hands of crane and rigging crews nationwide.
Mike said: “We’ve structured our pricing to support the group’s competitiveness –it’s a volume-driven model rather than a margin-led one.” – a scale effect that lets Delphi keep its Australian-made sensors price-competitive without compromising margin. “By consolidating supply through the GLG network, we’ve been able to keep pricing sharp without compromising on build quality or service.”
EXCLUSIVE PRODUCTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The most visible outcome is the 104 TW wireless tension-cell range, now sold exclusively through GLG members. Delphi still supports the 103 series through other distributors, but channel focus makes commercial sense: members such as Lifting Gear Hire & Sales (Perth), QLD Rigging (Brisbane), Dynamic Rigging Hire (Melbourne) and Sydney Lifting Services stock or hire the
sensors nationally, ensuring quick delivery and local calibration support.
DEMAND DRIVEN BY
“AUSTRALIAN‑MADE”
CONFIDENCE
End-users increasingly want Australian-made hardware for mission-critical lifts. “Australian manufacturing still matters – customers value the fact that we can calibrate, repair, and support our equipment quickly and locally.” Mike said.
That trust is translating into sales. Aluminium wireless tension cells –particularly the 104 TW models – have seen significant take-up since being launched, driven by crane and rigging contractors seeking lighter gear without sacrificing safety margins.
Queensland Rigging Hire’s Ben highlights the practical payoff. “We used to import load cells from overseas, and any
repair could take six to eight weeks and cost a fortune in freight. With Delphi, we get fast local service, technical advice when we need it, and reliable turnaround – it’s just a better experience. Supporting an Australian manufacturer like them isn’t just good for business, it’s good for the whole industry,” he said.
EARLY RESULTS
Although Delphi Measurement’s formal supply agreement with GLG is not decades old, it is already “seeing an uptick in enquiries and sales of the products that they are selling for us,” Mike said. By funnelling standard product through a single, well-organised network, Delphi gains predictable volume, and GLG members gain a locally manufactured alternative to offshore sensors – one that can be turned around rapidly for calibration or repair.
A DECADE‑LONG FOUNDATION
Delphi’s connection with individual GLG outlets stretches back to 2013, when the company acquired its current facility and first supplied All-Rig Lifting in Townsville. Regular business with QLD Rigging began in 2017, while Dynamic Rigging Hire and Alpha Rigging joined the customer list over the past few years. “By selling and hiring our equipment, GLG members extend our reach nationwide – without us having to expand our own distribution footprint,” Mike said.
With the GLG alliance in place, both parties will watch the numbers closely. If volume continues to grow, Delphi is ready to expand production of its aluminium and stainless-steel sensor ranges. The group’s nationwide footprint also gives the manufacturer a launchpad for future wireless innovations and export opportunities in Southeast Asia.
“The relationship already shows benefits – more enquiries, more sales and more Australian-made load cells out in the field,” Mike said. That combination of local manufacturing, industry-wide cooperation and volume-driven value is a lift that suits everyone. “By consolidating supply through the GLG network, we’ve been able to keep pricing sharp without compromising on build quality or service.”
Images:
Delphi
Measurement
COMPACT SOLUTION FROM THE CRANE CONNECTION
The Baden Davis Crane Connection recently delivered a refurbished Liebherr LTM 1055-3.2 2013 model for Bauer Cranes. Recipient Neil Bauer discusses his newly created business, the experience within this team and what Ballina and the surrounds in northern New South Wales can expect to see from his business.
NEIL BAUER HAS BEEN IN THE CRANE industry for 20 years and spending the bulk of this time working in the Universal Cranes organisation.
“My mother, brother and I worked for Universal Cranes in Brisbane for a number of years and left when the opportunity arose to purchase Strong Cranes, a small crane business based here in Ballina. We took a 51 per cent stake in the business and Universal Cranes 49 per cent – together we created Universal Cranes Ballina.
“We operated that business for the best part of 19 years until a year ago when Mum decided it was a good time for her to focus on other things in life and Universal Cranes bought our stake in the business. Then just recently, Universal sold the Ballina business to Wicks and Parker Pty
The Crane Connection has refurbished elements of the crane fixing a number of air leaks. It also had the boom off and installed a new Telescopic Ram.
Ltd and I saw an opportunity to launch my own business, Bauer Cranes.”
Bauer Cranes has started off small.
panel work. We are offering a flexible and personable service you would expect from a small business.”
“There are five of us in the team, which includes my son Jack and Jesse Hartley who has come over from Universal,” Neil said. “We’ve been running around now for a little bit with just a small capacity Franna, a Maeda 285 spider crane, and now the 55t Liebherr. Bauer Cranes is going to be a nice little family-based business looking after everyone who needs a lift. With the fleet, we’ve gone with good quality used cranes, the Maeda for example is a 2019 model and it only has 400 hours on it.
“We are actually operating from the yard that Universal Cranes first worked from. With the cranes we have, we’ll be focusing on the boating industry, lifting boats in an out of the water and lifting pontoons. In the housing sector we’ll be focusing on lifting trusses and in the commercial and industrial construction areas we will pick up the odd bit of tilt-up
Neil discusses his relationship with Anthony Davis and the Baden Davis Crane Connection and how the sale of the Liebherr came about.
“I didn’t know Anthony until the sales process began, and I only really got to meet him the other week in his yard; he’s just been first class to deal with. I can’t pump up his tyres enough. I have never dealt with anyone who works as effortless as he does, nothing is a drama.
“Initially, he had a different crane for sale, a 60t capacity all terrain, but I didn’t want to outlay that level of investment and he said, ‘Well leave it with me, I’ll come back to you when I’ve found you another option,’ and he did. He came back with the Liebherr LTM 1055-3.2 2013 model saying it was available if I was interested. I flew down and caught up with him. It turns out I knew the whole background to the crane too, because I know the previous owner.”
The Liebherr LTM 1055-3.2 is a compact 3-axle all-terrain featuring a lifting capacity of 55 tonne and 40 metres of main boom. Its small footprint and fast setup make it ideal for construction sites with tight tolerances.
The LTM 1055-3.2 is equipped with advanced safety systems and with a total hoist height of up to 56 metres when using extensions.
The Crane Connection has refurbished elements of the crane and also repainted it, in-house.
“They have managed a number of leaks, air leaks mainly and things like that, they’ve had the boom off and they’ve also installed a new Telescopic Ram,” said Neil.
“They’ve completely repainted the crane and, quite honestly, it looks brand new. The crane will be ideal for lifting building frames and trusses, installing air conditioning units, boats and cabins and that’s the bulk of what we’re doing around here. I know it is going to be a wellutilised asset.”
Images:
Baden Davis Crane Connection
The Crane Connection has refurbished elements of the crane and also repainted it, in-house.
SHILLABEER CRANE HIRE’S LATEST LIFT-OFF
Dale Shillabeer opened the doors of Shillabeer Crane Hire on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula in 2005. Back then, the young company owned a single 12-tonne Franna pick-and-carry crane.
“WE STARTED IN 2005 WITH A 12-TONNE Franna and just expanded from there,” Dale said, reflecting on the steady growth that has led to a modern fleet that now includes five Frannas, slewing cranes up to 100 tonnes, crane trucks and support vehicles.
That journey has just come full circle. For the first time, Shillabeer Crane Hire has taken delivery of a brand-new Franna – a MAC25-5. The investment was driven by a mix of regulatory change, upcoming project demands and Dale’s long-standing confidence in the Franna badge.
The keys to the brand-new crane were presented by Ginta Val, Franna’s newly appointed Sales Manager, who was performing her very first hand-over since stepping into the
role. “Nothing beats the feeling of a first-time experience. Selling my first crane was a rollercoaster – lots of back and forth, and then finally getting the call to confirm the order while driving to work. The delivery went smoothly thanks to a great trainer and a welcoming customer,” said Ginta. Ginta worked closely with Dale throughout the process, taking the time to understand his operational needs and ensuring the crane configuration met the specific requirements of the
“I’ve
been involved with Frannas for 30-odd years – first fixing them as a mechanic, now operating them. When you find something that’s good, you stick to it.”
business. Her attentive approach and professionalism helped build a strong working relationship with Dale.
Dale’s border collie Leia made the ceremony even more special with her charming presence.
COMPLIANCE FIRST
Shillabeer’s newest contract is the Acciona desalination plant, a project that mandates the latest safety technology. “The latest regulations require these dynamic load indicators on site,” Dale said. “The new Franna meets all the compliance we need for that job coming up.”
Franna’s Dynamic LMI – a patented real-time load-management system – continuously calculates rated capacity by factoring in boom length, articulation, pitch and roll. Operators
Dale Shillabeer’s new Franna MAC25‑5 arrived courtesy of Sales Manager Ginta Val – with loyal sidekick Leia taking pole position in the cab.
5 lifts 25 tonnes, but an optional
OM936 six-cylinder, uprated to 210 kilowatt (kW) and emission
Franna’s Dynamic LMI gives real‑time load calculations, boosting safety on the undulating terrain of coastal builds.
compliant to European Stage V and USA EPA Tier 4F standards.
• Steering and boom: Faster response for precision placement; improved hydraulic circuit minimises cycle times.
• S afety radar LMI: Shows a live view of the crane’s safe working zone, instantly factoring in pitch, roll, boom extension and articulation –removing the guesswork from every move.
• S erviceability: Rear-body redesign with relocated isolators, larger batteries and Anti-lock Braking System for Australian Design Rules (ADR) compliance.
All said, the Franna MAC25-5 retains the roadability that has made Franna a staple across regional Australia while packing enough technology to satisfy metro-grade safety audits.
A RELATIONSHIP FORGED OVER DECADES
For Dale, the decision to stay loyal to the brand was easy. “I’ve been
With 25‑tonne capacity, SuperLift option and true roadability, the new Franna slots into mid‑range duties across the Eyre Peninsula.
involved with Frannas for 30-odd years – first fixing them as a mechanic, now operating them. When you find something that’s good, you stick to it,” he said. “In the right hands a Franna is an amazing machine.”
That hands-on expertise influences training, too. “All our drivers hold VOCs
times for new pick-and-carry cranes past 12 months, yet Dale struck lucky. “I rang up out of the blue; they had one available, so I took it,” he said. “It only took a few months to get here – pretty unusual compared with the year-long wait you would expect.”
That swift delivery means the Franna
“All our drivers hold VOCs (Verification of Competency), but most of the learning is on the job – we’re a small crew, so we keep an eye on everyone and know their capabilities.”
(Verification of Competency), but most of the learning is on the job – we’re a small crew, so we keep an eye on everyone and know their capabilities,” Dale said.
RIGHT CRANE, RIGHT TIME
Availability sealed the deal. Supplychain bottlenecks have pushed lead
MAC25-5 will enter service as soon as the desalination project breaks ground.
The newcomer slots into a line-up that already features Tadano slewing cranes at 60 tonne and 100 tonne, plus multiple older-generation Frannas covering routine agricultural, marine and residential lifts across Port Lincoln, Ceduna and the wider Eyre Peninsula.
More than just a pre-start checklist
StartSafe is comprehensive tool designed to streamline your crane operations, enhance safety, and ensure accountability.
The new Franna MAC25-5 will shoulder mid-range duties – transporting precast pipe racks, positioning process skids and handling plant maintenance picks that demand both reach and manoeuvrability inside congested yards.
LOOKING AHEAD
Shillabeer Crane Hire has grown from one crane to a diversified fleet by responding to local industry needs. The Franna MAC25-5 purchase shows the same pragmatism: stay ahead of regulation, deliver safely, and choose kit that operators trust.
“You buy one crane and you want another,” Dale said, half-serious about the expansion bug that grips many regional crane contractors.
With its new Franna, Shillabeer Crane Hire is positioned to lift heavier, comply faster and keep critical projects on schedule – proof that sometimes the smartest move is to stick with what works, only newer and better.
Machine specific checklists are in line with the CraneSafe program.
StartSafe streamlines the process for collecting pre-start information, with instant data retention to a central location for the crane owner to access.
Photos tell the story.
When a faulty item is recorded by the operator, the maintenance team is notified of the issue by email, which includes photo evidence of the fault. This also assists with gathering major inspection data.
CONEXPO CON/AGG GEARS UP FOR 2026
With a century-plus of innovation and industry growth
CONEXPO CON/AGG 2026, the construction industry’s premier event, celebrates its rich lineage – 117 years in the making, and North America’s unmatched platform for construction innovation.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS IN 1909, when the original Road Show in Columbus, Ohio hosted 40 equipment manufacturers in a 3716 square metre space, to today’s 269,418 square metre, 2000 exhibitor event, CONEXPO CON/AGG’s evolution embodies the exponential growth of the construction industry.
MILESTONES IN A STORIED PAST
• 1909 – The inaugural Road Show, Columbus, Ohio, spotlighted machinery soon dubbed “hazardous equipment” over 40,000 sq ft.
• 1928 – Detroit hosted the Combined Biennial Show, later known as the Concrete & Aggregates Show.
• 1963 – The Columbus Road Show rebranded to the Construction Equipment Exposition & Road Show.
• 1969 – “ConExpo” emerges as the new moniker for the event.
• 1996 – ConExpo and Con/Agg formally unite under the CONEXPO CON/AGG banner in Las Vegas, transitioning to a triennial frequency.
• 2005 – AEM assumes sole responsibility for managing the show; in 2018, it secures operation rights through 2040.
RECORD-BREAKING SCALE AND REACH
• 1996 vs. 2023: Exhibitors rose from 800 to 2056; exhibit space ballooned from 1 million to 2.83 million sq ft; attendees jumped from 84,000 to 139,110.
• In 2023, CONEXPO attracted ~139,000 visitors – including 24,000 international attendees from 133 countries – with exhibitors representing 36 nations.
FORGING THE FUTURE –
CONEXPO CON/AGG 2026
Set for March 3-7, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center and Las Vegas Festival Grounds, the next edition continues the tradition of excellence with:
• 2000 exhibitor brands
• 2.9 million square feet of indoor and outdoor displays
• 150 educational sessions spanning technology, sustainability, and industry best practices
Above: In 1909, the original Road Show in Columbus, Ohio hosted 40 equipment manufacturers in a 3716 square metre space.
Below: Today, CONEXPO accommodates 269,418 square metres and 2000 exhibitors.
• New Ground Breakers Stage
• New workshops: Small Business, EmpowerHER, Shop Talks and Walks “A century of progress is reflected in CONEXPO CON/AGG’s scale, scope and spirit,” said Dana Wuesthoff, CONEXPOCON/AGG Show Director. “This event continues to elevate the equipment manufacturing industry – amplifying innovation, insight and influence.”
With the XCR90_AU and XCR120_AU, XCMG is delivering its most advanced rough terrain lifting solutions yet for Australian mining and infrastructure applications.
RAISING THE BAR IN MINING-GRADE MOBILITY
XCMG’s XCR90_AU and XCR120_AU Cranes arrive in Western Australia. Stephen Broomfield, General Manager, XCMG Crane Division explains more.
WITH TWO NEWLY ARRIVED UNITS AT THE Perth yard of XCMG Western Australia representative Ronco, XCMG is delivering its most advanced rough terrain lifting solutions yet for Australian mining and infrastructure applications. The XCR90_ AU and XCR120_AU cranes are not only fully mine-spec compliant, but they also represent a leap in operator comfort, safety systems, and operational versatility for
projects demanding serious lifting capacity and rugged all-terrain reliability.
For operations in harsh conditions such as those across the Pilbara, Bowen Basin, or remote infrastructure builds, both the XCR90_AU and XCR120_AU have been specifically designed, and now refined, to meet and exceed the extreme expectations of Australia’s top-tier mine sites.
BUILT FOR MINES AND BEYOND XCMG’s presence in Australia has steadily grown, especially among contractors seeking value without compromising safety or reliability. The 90-tonne XCR90_AU and the 120-tonne XCR120_AU are flagship rough terrain cranes configured specifically
The XCR90_AU delivers up to 90 tonnes of rated lifting capacity with a 48 metre main boom and a maximum working height of 63.1 metres when paired with its 17.5 metre jib.
main boom and a maximum working height of 63.1 metres when paired with its 17.5 metre jib. Powered by a Cummins B6.7 Tier V engine (209kW/1152Nm) and ZF 6WG210 transmission, it maintains high performance in off-road and mine environments, with up to 64.6 per cent gradeability.
Its H-style outriggers, full hydraulic control, and a full suite of safety systems –including load moment indicator, anti-twoblock, spark arrestors, and outrigger length monitoring – make it a field-ready crane. There’s no need for site-specific upgrades. It’s already compliant.
air conditioning, a roof guard, ergonomic seating, and dual-camera systems. The crane’s advanced engineering makes it a smart investment.
NOW IN STOCK AT RONCO PERTH
With both models now available from Ronco Equipment, there’s no waiting for lead times or shipping. These are Australian-delivered, mine-ready, and designed with local conditions in mind.
Contractors and fleet managers familiar with XCMG’s earlier generation will recognise these new cranes as a major step forward in speed, versatility, compliance, and total cost of ownership.
for Australian conditions. Both models have been battle-tested across open-cut and underground mines over recent years, and today’s latest iterations feature performance and safety enhancements based on direct end-user feedback.
Whether handling shutdown lifts, relocating heavy mining equipment, or working on wind farm installations and major civil builds, these cranes represent a compelling option in a highly competitive market segment.
XCR90_AU: Precision power in a compact package
The XCR90_AU delivers up to 90 tonnes of rated lifting capacity with a 48 metre
XCR120_AU: Versatility with a technological edge
The XCR120_AU takes lifting to the next level with 120t capacity and a 50m U-type boom, extending to 64.8m with jib. A Cummins L9 Tier IV engine (231kW/1526Nm) powers the crane, paired with an upgraded ZF transmission.
Key highlights include the Asymmetric Outrigger Monitoring (OM) system, which enables flexible setup in tight environments, and enhanced slew systems for stability. With quicker extension and slewing speeds, plus options like a 110t hook block and 18.3m jib, it sets a new standard.
Operator safety and comfort are enhanced with heating, ventilation and
WHY XCMG?
No other original equipment manufacturer is currently offering this level of minespecific specification combined with local availability and dealer support. These cranes are built for serious lifting in demanding projects – and they are supported by an expanding local service network.
For companies in mining, energy, and infrastructure, XCMG cranes represent a serious advantage. Contact Ronco Equipment to schedule a demonstration or review technical specifications. Your next project deserves more than a brochure –it deserves performance you can rely on.
https://ronco.com.au
Images:
XCMG and Ronco
POTAIN MCT 385 HITS NEW HEIGHTS ON WORLD’S TALLEST BRIDGE
A Potain MCT 385 topless tower crane has concluded its contribution to the world’s tallest bridge, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in Guizhou, southwestern China. Wit h a vertical clearance of 625 metres from the bridge deck to the river surface, the new structure is well over twice the height of France’s Millau Viaduct and will reduce travel time from Liuzhi to Anlong from three hours to just 1.5 hours.
As the core lifting equipment for the project, the crane soon began handling loads of up to 20t for critical tasks such as pylon construction and steel truss girder installation over a main span of 1420 metres and a total length of 2890 metres.
OWNED AND OPERATED BY GUIZHOU
ShengYongSheng, the crane arrived on site in late 2023, where it was configured with the full 75 metre jib on behalf of main contractors Guizhou Bridge Construction Group. As the core lifting equipment for the project, the crane soon began handling loads of up to 20 tonne for critical tasks such as pylon construction and steel truss girder installation over a main span of 1420 metres and a total length of 2890 metres.
On the sheer cliffs and inhospitable terrain of the local landscape, the
MCT 385 worked in tandem with the world’s longest-span cable crane system, covering areas unreachable by conventional fixed cranes and significantly accelerating construction while providing unmatched stability and efficiency in the extreme conditions.
“This canyon was once a construction ‘no-go zone’, but the MCT 385 has reaffirmed Potain’s position as a manufacturer and strategic partner capable of delivering technological breakthroughs,” said Ling Qian,
marketing manager – China, Manitowoc. “This project shows China’s ongoing commitment to ambitious infrastructure development and highlights the role global, high-end equipment can play in delivering these mega-projects. At Potain we want to drive innovation, turning projects that were previously impossible into reality.”
ShengYongSheng’s MCT 385 has enjoyed a decade of use on other projects in the region, including the Guiyang Twin Towers Project and the Xifeng Industrial Standardized Plant Project.
Image: Potain
TAKING CONSTRUCTION
No matter what sector of construction you’re in, you’ll leave CONEXPO-CON/AGG with new ideas, new relationships, and new opportunities to grow your business, and your place within the industry. This isn’t just North America’s largest construction trade show, it’s taking construction to the next level.
