Case launches D-Series mini-excavator range

 Case Construction Equipment’s new D-Series mini-excavator range features models from 0.9 to 5.4 tonnes and are now available at Case dealers in Australia and New Zealand.

The D-Series mini-excavator range feature hydraulic and mechanical quick couplers, zero tail-swing operation and customisable features for various applications.

“Boasting up to three auxiliary circuits and advanced controls, including electro-hydraulic and load-sensing systems, the D-Series offers unparalleled adaptability with a wide array of attachments,” Case says.

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Case says the range combines operator-focused enhancements like air-conditioning and customisable controls with optional amenities, such as radio – positioning the D-Series as a comfortable, safe and productive excavator.

“All D-Series mini-excavator models are equipped with the latest technology, features and attachments for all markets and applications,” Case says.

Manufactured at dedicated plants in Italy, Case says the mini-excavator range benefit from the innovation, technology, expertise and manufacturing deriving from the acquisition of Sampierana by CNH Industrial in 2021.

Volvo study shows viability of electric machinery

A multi-partner study, ‘Electric Worksite’, has mapped the infrastructure needs for electric machines through testing at real-life worksites in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The goal of the Electric Worksite project was for Volvo and its partners from across the supply chain to gai a better understanding of the opportunities and needs when putting to work electric equipment in urban applications.

The project looked into testing electric machines, energy storage and charging infrastructure in different urban sites.

The tests were carried out in real-life construction sites with electric-powered wheeled and crawler excavators, wheel loaders and load carriers, weighing between 3.5–30 tons (3.2–27 tonnes), some of which were battery-powered and others cable-connected.

The study concluded that all tests were successful, with the main learnings being:

  • electric construction machines can perform the same work to the same standard as fossil-fuelled variants in urban construction projects
  • workers in and around electric machines experience several positive effects in the handling of machines and the working environment
  • like most construction projects in general, the success of electrification is based on foresight, planning and flexibility
  • new requirements for power supply are solved based on machine type and available electricity – such as electrical cabinets, mobile charging stations, cable-connected machines and potentially also energy storage units
  • end customers need to be made aware of new opportunities and challenges with electric machines, as well as of existing business conditions and contracting requirements towards contractors and subcontractors.

Volvo CE project managed the tests and providing electric machines in various sizes and models, as well as technical solutions for charging such as mobile energy storage and cable management systems.

“Electric machines are already available on the market and performing well, but the challenge can often be how to establish a reliable supporting infrastructure,” Volvo CE research leader Bobby Frank says.

Bobbie Frank, Research leader at Volvo CE, with the grid-connected excavator from Volvo CE. Photo: Electric Worksite
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“This project confirmed that when all actors in the value chain around a construction site collaborate, both from the public and the private sector, we solve the infrastructure around it. In all tests, regardless of application and location, the electric machines performed as well as, if not better than, equivalent models with combustion engines, but without harmful emissions and disturbing noise.”

Driving progress with contracting demands

Municipalities and government bodies play an important role in enabling and driving the transition, for example by setting requirements for emission-free vehicles and machinery in the procurement of construction work, and by establishing clear city development goals for all societal players to work towards. The City of Gothenburg was keen to be involved in this project, seeing that there are many benefits in accelerating electrification within construction.

“As the City of Gothenburg is a major procurer of construction and civil engineering contracts, we can and want to be involved in leading the transition towards an emission-free industry,” City of Gothenburg business developer for electrified transports at the environmental management department Peter Lindgren says.

“We also see many other benefits for both the surrounding environment and the working environment, such as reduced noise and improved air quality,.”

The L25 Electric compact wheel loader working at Drottningtorget in central Gothenburg. Photo: Electric Worksite.

For the construction contractor NCC, the Electric Worksite has meant evaluating opportunities and challenges with electrification, together with other actors in the value chain.

“Once again, we can conclude that the most important take-away is that we need to get involved early in the project to plan for electrification – because the opportunities to influence emissions are greatest in the planning stage,” NCC Infrastructure sustainability manager Pernilla Löfås says.

“To scale up the use of electric construction machines and vehicles, increased competence is also needed throughout the value chain. We also need electric machines to be demanded in the contracting by customers, and that they set requirements that drive the development forward.”

Time for a refresh with PrecisionScreen

At PrecisionScreen, the business understands the importance of refreshing your machinery before the end of the financial year to maintain optimal performance and maximise productivity.

Specialising in screening and crushing, PrecisionScreen emphasises the significance of refreshing essential components such as replacement screen boxes, Cat engines and service kits to ensure customers stay ahead.

The Brisbane-based business says its replacement screen boxes are engineered to deliver unparalleled screening efficiency, durability and versatility. They also offer enhanced throughput rates and precision screening capabilities – empowering businesses to meet evolving demands with confidence.

By upgrading to PrecisionScreen’s screen boxes before the financial year closes, businesses can boost productivity, minimise downtime and achieve superior results in their operations.

PrecisionScreen provides replacement screen boxes for all its screening plants such as the Contractor 604, Scorpion Reclaimer 804 and Super Reclaimer 1050 with 6×4, 8×4 and 10×5 screen boxes.

Most of its screening plants are run by Cat engines, which PrecisionScreen says are renowned for their reliability, performance and fuel efficiency across diverse applications.

Whether powering a single machine or an entire wash plant set up, the company says Cat engines deliver robust performance that withstands the rigors of demanding environments. By refreshing a machines engine, you can maximise uptime to minimise downtime.

In addition to its equipment components, PrecisionScreen prioritises its aftersales support and on-site servicing solutions to maximise the value of customer investments.

Its dedicated team of technicians provide timely assistance, expert advice and personalised solutions to address any maintenance needs or technical challenges that may arise.

With on-site servicing capabilities, businesses can benefit from convenient, hassle-free maintenance solutions tailored to their specific requirements – minimising downtime and optimising operational workflows.

By partnering with PrecisionScreen and investing in its equipment components and support services, businesses can ensure their machinery operates at peak performance levels, driving success and competitiveness in today’s dynamic marketplace.

As the financial year draws to a close, now is the perfect time to refresh your machinery and position your business for continued growth and prosperity.

PrecisonScreen is a trusted source for all screening technology needs and can help customers stay ahead of the curve.

For more information, visit: https://precisionscreen.com.au/

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Two mineral projects awarded $585 million loan

The federal government will provide $400 million in new loans to Australian mineral processing company Alpha HPA to deliver Australia’s first high-purity alumina processing facility in Queensland.

The Alpha HPA project in Gladstone is expected to create around 490 jobs during construction and more than 200 jobs on completion.

The company will use Australian owned IP and technology to process high purity alumina – a critical mineral used in LED lighting, semiconductors, and lithium-ion batteries and other high-tech applications.

Stage One of the Alpha HPA project is already operational, consisting of a precursor production facility in Gladstone that is the company’s first commercial application of its process to produce pure aluminium products.

Stage Two will see the construction of one of the largest single high purity aluminium (HPA) refineries in the world on a 10-hectare site capable of producing 10,000 tonnes of HPA a year. It is expected to be operational in 2025.

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The loans will be provided by Export Finance Australia (EFA) through the government’s $4 billion Critical Minerals Facility, as well as through the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility and EFA’s Commercial Account.

The government has also conditionally approved $185 million to Renascor Resources to fast track the development of Stage One of its Siviour Graphite Project in South Australia. The original loan was approved in February 2022, and this decision means that Stage One of the project will be brought forward sooner.

Stage One will deliver around 150 construction jobs and 125 jobs once operational in Arno Bay on the Eyre Peninsula, with Stage Two expected to deliver a further 225 construction jobs and more than 120 jobs once it is operational in Bolivar, near Port Adelaide.

The open pit mine and graphite production plant is expected to have an annual graphite concentrate production of 123,000 tonnes per year.

Renascor Resources will deliver purified graphite for use in lithium-ion batteries required for electric vehicles and renewable technologies.

Cummins to unveil new off-highway engine at Intermat

Cummins Inc. has announced plans to unveil a new engine for the off-highway market at Intermat 2024. The engine will be on display at Intermat in Paris, France, April 24–27 2024.

“From working closely with customers, we’re acutely aware of the demand for combustion technology that delivers high power density and improved efficiency,” Cummins executive director off highway Beau Lintereur says.

“The introduction of this clean sheet diesel engine marks another milestone, as we continue our commitment to diversifying our portfolio of combustion technologies.

“With this launch, we are bringing customers a smaller and easier to install platform, that will reduce operating costs and the overarching environmental impact.”

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Cummins will be displaying its latest B6.7 agnostic engine platform. This design enables clean diesel, biodiesel, natural gas and hydrogen fuel applications with small head adjustment tweaks on production line. All engines across this range use the same transmission, cooling systems and hydraulic systems. This common base engine design reduces complexity for equipment manufacturers and their customers that are looking to implement a diverse range of fuels.

The inclusion of the B6.7H hydrogen engine in Cummins’ agnostic engine range is aimed at a wide range of off-highway machinery, with a top rating of 290 horsepower (216kW) and a peak torque of 1,200Nm targeted for Stage VI/Tier 5.

Also confirmed for Intermat 2024, Cummins has outlined that it will be displaying its on board fuel storage system for hydrogen combustion. Cummins’ joint venture with Nproxx, a producer pf high pressure hydrogen storage for both stationary and mobile applications, will be supporting OEMs and their product integration process. The storage tanks on show will have up to 700-bar pressure capability, maximising capacity and operating range.

 

Yuchai China launches electric skid steer range

Chinese OEM Yuchai Heavy Industry has released a variety of electric loaders including the S150 skid steer, S35MAX long-endurance skid steer, S35Pro skid steer, Z25 mini loader and the X35 Max skid steer.

The S150 is currently the largest tonnage electric skid steer loader available through Yuchai Heavy Industry, the company says.

Featuring a built-in battery thermal balance system, Yuchai says the battery’s efficiency is maximised. The Chinese OEM says the machine can achieve faster response compared to traditional drive axles – increasing power by 25 per cent compared to its fuel counterparts.

Yuchai says the S150 supports a maximum charging power of 80kW to ensure quick and convenient recharging anywhere, at any time. With a universal attachment port, it offers a wide range of attachment options for various working conditions.

The long-endurance S35 Max can work continuously for 9–11 hours on a full charge, making it the longest-endurance electric skid steer globally, according to the manufacturer.

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With a minimum pass-through width of 950mm, its electric advantages include lower noise, reduced vibration and improved fuel efficiency.

The Z25 mini electric loader can be used in various fields such as agriculture, animal husbandry and municipal services.

Yuchai says its introduction will significantly improve the noise and emissions from machinery operations in cattle farms, zoos, and municipal areas.

It comes equipped with common agricultural grabs, industrial forks, agricultural buckets, angled sweepers and various attachments – along with a hydraulic attachment replacement system that greatly reduces work during operation.

With a 20kW/h large-capacity battery, it can work continuously for six to eight hours per charging, meeting the requirements for daily use without the trouble of refuelling.

Yuchai excavators and Multione wheel loaders are available through Yuchai Contruction Equipment Australia. The new skid steers will not be made available in Australia at this time.

$1.9 million upgrade for Maitland road upgrade

Tocal Road at Bolwarra Heights, a suburb of Maitland, will be widened and realigned in a $1.9 million upgrade announced by the NSW government.

Jointly funded by the NSW government’s Restart NSW Fixing Country Roads Program and Maitland City Council, work will occur between Maitland Vale Road and Lang Drive and include new drainage and pavement reconstruction.

The Restart Program is focused on providing targeted infrastructure spending for regional freight projects.

The project will involve resurfacing and widening two sections of Tocal Road to have wider 3.5m travel lanes in each direction, with a section of the road to be realigned to improve sight distance and safety.

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The project will be delivered by Maitland City Council, with the council contributing $997,800 to the project and the NSW government contributing $915,000.

“It’s fantastic to see this project starting construction,” NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison says.

“Upgrading Tocal Road will improve the connectivity and safety for journeys between regional centres of Maitland and Dungog, especially for heavy vehicles.

“The Maitland area services a variety of industries from agriculture, tourism, mining, manufacturing, transport and construction, which will benefit from this upgrade.”

Highlights from Diesel Dirt & Turf 2024

Thousands travelled from across Australia to attend this year’s Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo (DDT) at Sydney Dragway from April 12-14.

The country’s largest construction expo was held over three days and, with over 150 exhibitors in attendance, the Earthmovers & Excavators team was on site to check out the latest and greatest equipment available for the earthmoving industry.

Here are some of the highlights from DDT 2024:

Komatsu PC210LCE. Image: Prime Creative Media

Komatsu

DDT Gold Sponsor Komatsu had one of the largest displays of machinery and technology at the event.

Two of Komatsu’s electric prototype excavators were at its 1,400 square metre site, with both pieces of machinery on display for the first time in Australia.

Providing quieter operation than diesel machines, the PC210LCE-11 hydraulic electric excavator and the PC33E-6 electric mini excavator are suited for indoor sites and congested residential and commercial areas.

Komatsu says both excavators are battery-powered and deliver zero emissions without comprising on productivity or comfort.

The PC33E-6 has a 17.4kW electric motor and an operating weight of three tonnes.

Volvo ECR25 electric mini excavator. Image: Prime Creative Media

CJD Equipment

Continuing the theme of electric excavators, the Australian distributor of Volvo and SDLG – CJD Equipment – unveiled a brand-new Volvo ECR25 electric mini excavator.

CJD says the ECR25 provides the same performance as its diesel equivalent but releases zero emissions.

It has a two to four-hour run time depending on the application and provides quiet operation, which is beneficial to indoor sites and residential areas.

Capable of being charged to 80 per cent in less than an hour, the ECR25 can easily be recharged during lunch breaks.

Huski 4SDK4 skid steer. Image: Prime Creative Media

Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA)

Displaying a variety of machines from Huski Construction Equipment, TMHA highlighted two key models of its Huski skid steer range, the 4SDK4 and 5SDK5.

Standard features on the skid steer range include its high lift capacity, load handling pedal control, a multiple safety interlock system, a shock reducing bucket feature and low vibration control levers.

The compact-sized 4SDK4 is the smallest skid steer in the Huski range with a height of 1.8m and a width of 900mm, making it easily transportable on a trailer.

The 5SDK5 is capable of lifting loads of 430kg and is the largest skid steer in the range that can be transported within a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, which means it is still able to be carried on a trailer.

Slightly larger than its 4SDK4 counterpart, TMHA says the 5SDK5 skid steer can also be used in tight access spaces and stored in garages as the machine is only 1.25m wide and 1.86m tall.

HMK600MG Hidromek grader. Image: Prime Creative Media

Onetrak

An official dealer of Hidromek, Striker, Dressta, Tigercat, Hyundai and Anaconda machinery in Australia, Onetrak used DDT to showcase its popular HMK600MG Hidromek grader.

With an 18,000kg operating weight, this grader is the largest model in Onetrak’s grader range.

It comes standard with a 3,710mm blade and a blade turning angle of 360 degrees, whilst producing 214 to 242 horsepower (160 to 180kW) with its Mercedes-Benz engine.

The HMK600MG can be used in many applications ranging from levelling and digging to trenching and snow ploughing.

Next Gen Cat 255 compact track loader. Image: Prime Creative Media

WesTrac

Celebrating 20 years of the business in NSW, official Caterpillar dealer WesTrac launched a new Cat compact track loader on the first day of DDT to kick off the event with a bang.

The Next Gen Caterpillar 255 compact track loader replaces the first generation 259D3 compact track loader and is powered by a Cat C2.8T engine, which offers 74.3hp (55.4kW).

The 255 delivers class-leading lift height and delivers 36 per cent more tilt breakout when compared to its first-generation counterpart, WesTrac says.

Also on display was one of the first Cat construction machines sold in NSW by WesTrac – a 120H motor grader.

Shop In A Box from Continental. Image: Prime Creative Media

Continental

On display at Continental’s site was its Shop In A Box industrial fluid solution, which is sold as a turnkey workbench that replicates the capabilities of a hydraulic and industrial hose crimp shop for operators.

Available with the option of four different crimper models, the Shop In A Box is suited to both occasional users through to everyday users – depending on the crimper model chosen.

The crimper models have different crimp capabilities for various hose types, so a purchaser can choose the model that is suited to them.

The PC200i crimper model was of particular interest due to Continental’s patented CrimpIQ technology being integrated into it – connecting the PC200i to Bluetooth and a cloud.

Doherty’s D-Lock Tilt coupler. Image: Prime Creative Media

Doherty Couplers & Attachments

Amongst a range of earthmoving machinery attachments, Doherty’s D-Lock tilt coupler was a drawcard.

Incorporating a precision-built actuator that ensures trouble-free operation, operators can tilt all attachments up to 180 degrees rather than having to move an entire machine.

Covering machines from one to 50 tonnes, the coupler has been designed with a compact and narrow body for greater visibility and performance.

Its patented DPL+ safety system comes standard on the D-Lock tilt range, which the company says it gives a range of benefits over other brands.

Diamond Mowers’ SK drum mulcher DC Pro. Image: Prime Creative Media

Colbrook Industries

Featuring a range of skid steer attachments, two highlights of Colbrook’s site was the SK drum mulcher DC Pro and the SK disc mulcher belt drive Pro X from Diamond Mowers, which it exclusively distributes in Australia.

Suited to loaders up to 75hp (56kW), the drum mulching attachment has a cutting width of 50 inches (127cm) and mulches trees or brush up to eight inches in diameter.

The belt drive disc mulcher is designed for contractors and mulching professionals with up 60 inches of cutting width and cuts up to 14 inches diameter of brush and trees.

With class-leading torque, Colbrook says the belt drive can recover twice as fast as other disc mulchers.

Berti mulcher attachments from Ag-Pride. Image: Prime Creative Media

Ag-Pride

NSW distributor of construction and agricultural implements Ag-Pride showed a range of Berti mulcher attachments designed for excavators in the three to 10-tonne range.

The Italian-built range of mulcher heads is designed to cover everything from roadside vegetation management to pasture clearance.

The KX/SSL Berci hydraulic forestry mulcher was on display, suited to skid steers from 50 to 90hp (37kW to 67kW).

Ag-Pride says it comes with fixed-teeth rotor and can mulch vegetable residue, branches and standing plants up to 12 to 15cm in diameter.

ITR Pacific’s off-road tyre range. Image: Prime Creative Media

ITR Pacific

Earthmoving machinery parts supplier ITR Pacific was on site with its Track Group, three different sizes of rubber tracks, its off-road tyre range and a suite of final drive, ripper shank and excavator bucket products and tools.

Its off-road tyre range is designed for loaders, graders, scrapers, dump trucks, skid steers and more, with 15 different options of patterns to suit all forms of applications.

Also on the stand was an engine rebuilt with ITR parts and a Just Easy Tools forklift.

X series bucket from Digga. Image: Prime Creative Media

Digga Australia

Digga Australia used its stand as an opportunity to showcase its new X-Series heavy duty 4-in-1 bucket.

Officially launched at DDT, the X-Series buckets are suited to large skid steer loaders and have upgraded dump and rollback angles.

Being used in the demo area, attendees got the chance to test out the bucket’s increased opening width and improved clamping force.

XCMG

An Associate Sponsor of the event, XCMG displayed a wide variety of heavy machinery to attendees.

Its XC968-EV electric wheel loader was of interest for many, encompassing an operating mass of 18.8 tonnes and rated power up to 280kW (375hp).

The zero emissions electric model has a 3.2-cubic metre bucket capacity with a rated load of 5.8 tonnes.

Also catching the eye was a XDA45U articulated dump truck installed with an Allquip Water Trucks 33,000 litre tank.

This machine has a 41-tonne payload and is designed for use in mines, quarries, water conservation, harbours and construction sites.

For more info on the new XC968 electric wheel loader, check out this issue’s cover story on pages 10–11.

Kobelco SK380SRLC-7 excavator. Image: Prime Creative Media

Kobelco

Standing out with its blue-painted machinery, Kobelco showcased its newest excavators at the Expo, including the SK380SRLC-7 excavator – Kobelco’s heaviest short radius excavator to date.

Weighing in at 37 tonnes, the new model encompasses a 210kW (282hp) output and a six per cent higher torque than previous models.

Ideal for operators working on urban and residential jobsites, the construction machinery company says short radius machines are becoming increasingly popular due to ongoing requirements for roadworks and utility maintenance.

Kobelco says short radius machines benefit from a smaller working footprint, which means that they can access tighter working areas.

Steelwrist had quick couplers and tiltrotators on display. Image: Prime Creative Media

Steelwrist

Steelwrist’s stand had two large excavators demoing its range of quick couplers, tilt couplers and tilt rotators.

Mounted on one of the excavators was displaying a double SQ60 quick coupler and tilt rotator combination. Steelwrist says the reason it was showcasing a double SQ quick coupler on one machine was to show its versatility in changing between different hydraulic work tools.

Normally, Steelwrist wouldn’t allow a breaker or hammer to be put under a tilt rotator, but in these cases an operator can disconnect the tilt rotator and pick up an attachment such as a hammer.

The SQ quick coupler under the tilt rotator is used on any types of attachment that needs to rotate, such as a bucket.

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Supporting mental health in the industry

In Australia, construction workers are six times more likely to take their own lives than have an accident at work, with an incredibly alarming rate of one construction worker taking their life every two days – this statistic is haunting and now is the time for change.

So, how do we get there? The rise in mental health concerns across the construction industry is alarming, long working hours, poor work/life balance, high risk environments, bullying and harassment, a culture of silence and the bystander effect are all key factors.

It’s hard to imagine how small changes can create impact, but they can, and here’s where we can all begin.

Speaking up

The bystander effect is a theory where individuals are less likely to step in when others are around. This may be due to how the supporting individual may be perceived for standing up against the perpetrator, which therefore affects their own safety in the situation.

Feeling safe enough to call someone out for their behaviours can feel intimidating, but the power in speaking up for those being affected is far greater. Whether it is small remarks made towards someone’s physical attributes and/or abilities, personal choices, sexuality, and/or gender, lived experiences or anything else, they are being discriminated against.

Speaking up on the spot and calling out the behaviour is an incredible catalyst for change and will show that this behaviour isn’t tolerated. You will soon notice others will follow in standing up against bullying and this is where change begins.

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Supporting positive culture

Having a workplace that actively promotes good mental health practices may feel rare in the industry, but it does exist. Tools include having your business aligned with an employee assistance program (EAP) service for mental health and wellness, having mental health crisis documents or guidelines in easily accessible places for those who aren’t sure where to begin supporting a co-worker or themselves, taking part in awareness days such as R U OK Day and having these resources available and actively promoting a message in your workplace of supporting mental health.

Creating a culture where mental health support is available, championed and promoted is incredibly beneficial to your workplace. Organisations could also start a mental health support committee, where key people are available to support workers who are in need of further guidance.

Starting conversations

Imagine coming to work and feeling safe to speak about your mental health and how you are feeling. This should be the norm, so let’s start advocating for it.

Start actively promoting and engaging in open conversations. Checking in on co-workers and taking the time to have real and authentic conversations can save a life.

If you notice a co-worker is unusually silent, withdrawn or starting to not show up to work or bring the same enthusiasm for life – these are strong indicators that something isn’t right. If you aren’t sure how to start the conversation, just being an active listener is the perfect place to start, and continuing to check in on that person. If you don’t feel you have the capacity to hold space for that person, recommending them support services is also a great way to help.

Checking in with work mates can help build a culture of positivity around discussing mental health at work. Image: SpaceOak/stock.adobe.com

Work/life balance

Promoting and providing flexibility for workers is a key catalyst for the mental health crisis in the construction industry. People are creating a movement for shorter working hours, safer working conditions and more balance in their working lives.

Gone are the days where workers needed to be onsite 10+ hours a day, in extreme conditions and were expected to show up six or seven days a week. Let’s advocate for men picking their kids up from school and participating in social activities in the afternoons, let’s support women in the industry who need to work around school hours and family/carer appointments and activities that relieve their burnout, let’s rally for all workers to not leave work so physically and mentally fatigued that it affects their health to a point of crisis and intervention.

Let’s support and encourage working from home where possible, showing flexibility is achievable from leadership and top levels, and allow this to filter through the workplace.

Productivity and mental health boosts with flexibility and work/life balance, and in our fast paced and busy world, let’s promote and encourage balance and its benefits.

Women’s mental health

At NAWIC we are passionate about advocating for women in the construction industry, and through research, lived experiences and feedback we know that women in construction are suffering.

As published in the NAWIC Journal, Dr Adedeji Afolabi and a group of researchers discovered that the major factors leading to mental health issues among female workers in construction are: sexism, lack of access to flexible and part-time work options, family and carer commitments, long working hours, negative perceptions surrounding their ability to perform similar roles to men, macho culture, male-dominated recruitment processes, low career progress and the inability to balance career and personal goals, plus the gender pay gap and it’s affects.

We need to support our women in the construction industry and the burnout they feel working within it. At NAWIC we provide a safe place for all women, empowering and advocating for their rights in the construction industry.

We support women (and men) through individual and corporate membership, and offer access to events, awards, scholarships, networking, professional development and our EAP program that provides 24/7 free confidential support.

If you, or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, here are free support services that may support you: Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636; Headspace – 1800 650 890; Mates in Construction – 1300 642 111.

NAWIC is a not-for-profit organisation, with a vision to create an equitable construction industry where women fully participate. Its mission is to drive change that will aid in the increased recruitment, retention and further vocational development of women within all facets of the construction industry. You can stay connected with NAWIC through its social media platforms, The Leaky Pipeline Podcast or become a member. You can learn more about the impactful work at www.nawic.com.au.

ITR Pacific delivering high quality aftermarket parts

In the dynamic landscape of the Australian earthmoving industry, ITR stands out for its unwavering commitment to quality, performance and customer satisfaction. The world-renowned Italian brand, best known for its complete range of aftermarket earthmoving machinery parts, is one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry, providing a one-stop solution for most makes and models of earthmoving equipment.

With an expansive network of branches, warehouses and workshops strategically positioned throughout the Australian market, alongside industry experts stationed in every region, ITR Pacific is uniquely positioned to deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Offering a comprehensive range of undercarriage parts, rubber tracks and pads, ground engaging tools, repair parts, tyres and more, ITR Pacific provides a high level of stock accessibility and support. This extensive local inventory, coupled with the backing of the broader group, gives ITR Pacific the capability to cater to a diverse array of sectors within the Australian market, spanning mining, construction, plant hire, agriculture and forestry.

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Range

From rubber tracks and undercarriage components, to ground-engaging tools and repair parts, to OTR tyres and diesel engine parts, ITR prides itself on offering premium quality products.

ITR parts are designed and engineered by the group’s in-house R&D department in Italy and manufactured in ISO-certified production facilities with stringent quality control measures, resulting in a consistent and reliable product that has attracted the business of numerous OEM and other aftermarket companies globally.

The range covers parts suitable for most makes and models of dozers, excavators, graders, loaders, scrapers, dump trucks, drill rigs, harvesters, apron feeders and more – ranging in size from 0.5 tonnes up to 800 tonnes.

Service

ITR says that what sets it apart from the competition in an industry where performance and downtime are not an option is its servicing capabilities. With two undercarriage track shops located in Brisbane and Sydney, an on-site rubber track installation team in South East Queensland, a robotic welder for hardfacing ground engaging tools and track shoes, as well as a team of specialists in the field performing undercarriage and bucket inspections country-wide, ITR Pacific can provide end-to-end solutions for its customers beyond just the parts.

As well as focusing on the quality of its parts, ITR has also strongly invested in its track shop equipment. Heavy-duty track beds and track winders, custom-made for Australian conditions, are capable of handling chains up to 10 tonnes in weight, comfortably covering the large Cat D11 and Komatsu D475 track groups.

The services on offer include:

  •  track bolt-ups and track plate swaps
  •  track lengthening and shortening
  •  complete track frame refurbishments, track frame crack repairs and modifications
  •  robotic, abrasive-resistant tungsten-carbide hard facing of ground engaging tools, such as bucket teeth and cutting edges
  •  hardfacing of dozer track plates with tungsten-carbide grit for added wear resistance.

Market expansion

As it looks to the future, ITR remains steadfast in its ongoing commitment to providing customers with streamlined and efficient services and parts with quick turnaround times. The company is continuously expanding its presence in the Australian market through industry acquisitions and new developments, allowing it to build its product range and service offering with additional locations and industry experts.

To find out more about ITR’s full product offering and services, give them a call at 1300 820 214 or visit www.itrpacific.com.au.