Smallmon Brothers Waste and Recycling has been supported in its growth by Screenmasters Australia’s expertise in crushing and screening
Chris Smallmon and his brother Nigel run Smallmon Brothers Waste and Recycling – a family business based in Wagga Wagga, NSW.
Originally focusing on waste collection and green waste processing, the business has diversified into concrete recycling, gravel processing and tree grinding.
“Our focus has always been on providing reliable services with minimal downtime, ensuring our clients get the best,” Chris says.
Approximately six years ago, the Smallmon Brothers identified an opportunity in the crushing and screening sector and seized the chance to expand. This decision was motivated by family history; previous generations had been pioneers in fabricating crushers and drilling rigs.
“We realised there was a massive potential for growth in the crushing business, and with our background, it made perfect sense,” Chris says.
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Their initial foray into the sector involved trialling different machines. However, it was their encounter with the Keestrack R3h Impactor, supplied by Screenmasters Australia (SMA), that set them on their current successful path.
“We tried various machines, but the R3h stood out,” Chris says.
“It met our needs more effectively and provided a robust solution to our increasing workload.”
Building a partnership
Chris’ introduction to Ciaran Lagan from SMA marked the beginning of a fruitful relationship. Chris was two years into the expanding venture and on the hunt for reliable equipment to support the family business.
“Ciaran was instrumental in helping us find the right machinery,” he says.
“The R3h impactor was the start. Since then, we’ve expanded, requiring higher capacity machines.”
Keen to support Chris’ burgeoning enterprise, Lagan and the SMA team have been providing on-site help and comprehensive phone support.
“Our relationship with clients extends beyond just selling equipment,” Lagan says.
“We aim to provide continuous support and build lasting relationships.”
Cut above
The decision to invest in the R3h Impactor was just the beginning, with Smallmon Brothers soon requiring enhanced capabilities. This led to the acquisition of the Keestrack K4 scalper from SMA – a machine designed for splitting aggregates and screening various materials.
The K4 scalper has been instrumental in processing not just construction materials but also soils and green waste.
“The K4 has helped us manage various materials efficiently, adding another layer of versatility to our operation,” Chris says.
The need for even greater capacity led to its latest acquisition, the R5h impactor. This high-output machine is capable of producing multiple products simultaneously.
The ability of the R5h to handle larger jobs efficiently with reduced wear costs was a significant factor in its decision to purchase.
“We expect the R5h to cut down wear costs by up to 40 per cent, offering less downtime and more production,” Chris says.
“It’s crucial for handling recycling processes involving steel and other contaminants.”
The similarity between the R5 and R3 models makes maintenance straightforward, providing continuity for their staff.
“The R5 is particularly appreciated for its minimal need to open the chamber, reducing wear and tear and downtime significantly,” Chris adds.
Reliable support
Working in a sector that often involves travel and remote sites, the priority for Smallmon Brothers has always been on reliable and easy-to-maintain machinery with excellent support. SMA have proven to be an ideal partner in this regard.
Chris appreciates the technical support provided, he says.
“They help us with wear parts, machine repairs, and minimise downtime through telephone guidance. The support we get from SMA is unmatched.”
Lagan adds: “We aim to be there when our clients need us, providing ongoing support and building a lasting relationship. It’s not just about selling a machine; it’s about ensuring it continues to deliver for the client.”
Expansion and investment
With eyes set on continuous growth, Chris is considering adding more equipment to his fleet and keeping abreast of new technology advancements. The focus is on maintaining the momentum the business has built so far while ensuring that the operations remain efficient and competitive.
“We are always looking to expand within a two to three hour radius of Wagga and investing in the right technology is key to that expansion,” he says.
For those contemplating an entry into the crushing and screening industry, Chris suggests starting with an impact crusher due to its versatility and ease of mobility.
“The impact crusher is a great starting point. It’s versatile and handles a range of materials effectively,” he says.
“For us, it was the starting block for what has become a successful part of our business.”
The choice of machinery should also be guided by durability and production levels, even in harsh conditions. Chris strongly advocates for Keestrack and SMA machines, due to their ease of maintenance and high production capacity.
“We have been through various options, but the durability and output levels of these machines under tough conditions have been exceptional,” he says.
“They’ve proven their worth, time and time again.”
For more information on SMA and the crushing and screening equipment it offers, visit: www.screenmasters.com.au