A family-owned civil contractor business wanted a machine that was efficient and eye-catching – a machine that would make it stand out from the crowd. Onetrak and Hidromek provided the answer
When Sofos Civil Contracting managing director Michael Emerzidis wanted to expand the contracting side of his business, he didn’t want to add just any machine to his fleet. He wanted an excavator that would make Sofos Civil stand out from the crowd, a conversation starter, a point of difference.
He found exactly what he was looking for, thanks to Hidromek and Onetrak.
Sofos Civil Contractors was originally founded in 2013 under the name Costless Plant Hire and specialises in demolition, excavation and civil construction services.
With two decades of experience, the company previously played a pivotal role in a larger family enterprise before embarking on its own journey.
Currently engaged on a project in Sydney, the business is preparing a site for a brand-new, four-storey split-level home. This has included demolishing the old house and carrying out rock excavation for the building, swimming pool and onsite stormwater detention tank. Once the groundwork is complete, the construction of the new home will begin.
Emerzidis says his team is committed to delivering excellence and maintaining the company’s reputation for high-quality workmanship. The team works closely with architects, engineers and clients to ensure that every aspect of the preparation for this project meets the highest standards and client expectations, he adds.
Excavator expansion
When Emerzidis made the decision to expand the contracting side of his business, he turned to Onetrak and Hidromek.
Although he had operated most excavator brands in the industry, ranging from 1.8t to 50t, he had yet to experience a Hidromek machine.
His first encounter with Hidromek was in 2023 at the Onetrak stand during the Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo. Impressed by the machines’ appearance and the knowledgeable, approachable Onetrak team, Emerzidis began to consider a return to contracting.
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Over the next six to seven months, he researched the capabilities of the HMK145 and thoroughly examined the many reviews and awards it had received.
By this stage Emerzidis was completely taken by the appearance of the machine and was suitably impressed by its capabilities. He was looking for a point of difference that would gain recognition and start conversations, and he felt the look of the Hidromek would spark that attention.
In his own words: “Give me a reason not to buy it!”
Rent-to-buy opportunity
And so, the process began for the purchase of the HMK145. Sofos Civil took advantage of Onetrak’s rent-to-buy option and took delivery of the machine in June this year.
Comparing the HMK145 to other machines he has operated, Emerzidis says he was impressed with the spacious and comfortable cab, as well as the Hidromek machine’s sturdiness.
“I value the counterweight balance and the sense of security it provides,” he says.
“The excavator is also well-built and strong, including the underbelly, and with a great pump flow it has excellent hydraulics in comparison to other excavators in this class.”
Emerzidis believes the Hidromek machines are well thought out and one of his favourite features is the convenience and safety aspect of the siphon hose for refuelling.
He also noted the machine’s capacity for easy maintenance, with easy access to change oils and filters and to work on the hydraulic motor, as well as easily visible grease points.
“I think they have done a really good job of ticking all the boxes, it is really well thought out and crafted,” he adds.
Emerzidis revealed that his father, who has 35 years of experience in the industry, also appreciated the design and quality of the machine.
The Onetrak difference
Another key point of difference for Sofos Civil was the Onetrak team.
From the start, Aaran Hayden, Onetrak’s local territory manager, made a strong impression on Sofos Civil with his friendly demeanour and quick responses. The entire Onetrak team at the DDT also stood out for their approachability.
Emerzidis mentioned that he prefers to invest in family-operated businesses, reflecting his own background. Having downsized his operations to better serve smaller clients, he prefers to support companies that truly value his business.
Sofos Civil believes Onetrak has put a lot of effort into creating a strong brand identity that reflects its products, including Hidromek.
“The synergy between Onetrak and Hidromek is evident,” Emerzidis says.
“For a relatively new brand in the Australian market, having a patient and dedicated team including the likes of Aaran and Brad [regional manager NSW and QLD], who promptly follow up and treat you with respect, is crucial.
“As Onetrak continues to grow, maintaining excellent customer service and accessibility become increasingly important,” he adds.
“The rent-to-buy option offered is incredibly beneficial and adds value to Onetrak’s offerings.”
Emerzidis says he is pleased to endorse this from his consulting perspective.
He has already had many people stop him to ask about the excavator and so far the Hidromek HMK145 is doing exactly what Sofos Civil had hoped it would.
Contact Onetrak if you would like to know more about the Hidromek range and what it could do for your business. Visit www.onetrak.com.au or call 1300 727 520.