CPR GROUP
CPR Group Managing Director Alex Cooper had a vision to create a company that would provide the mining industry with “Your Complete Maintenance Solution”. He achieved that vision by building not just one successful business, but four!
CPR Group is a diversified company comprising four specialist divisions: CPR Fabrication & Engineering, CPR Automotive Services, CPR Plant Repairs, and CPR Truck & Trailer Repairs. Together, they service a wide range of industries, including mining, rail, freight, transport, automotive, civil, construction, and agriculture.
Each division operates independently but collaborates when needed, allowing CPR Group to provide seamless, end-to-end solutions. This integrated approach saves customers the hassle of dealing with multiple suppliers while ensuring efficient project completion.
CPR’s highly skilled team has expertise in various trades, including light and heavy vehicle mechanics, plant mechanics, auto electricians, boilermakers, draftsmen, trades assistants and high-voltage electricians.
CPR Plant Repairs has built a reputation for exceptional and honest service, supporting customers across the Hunter region and beyond for nearly a decade. Today, it provides stable labour solutions to multiple sites across NSW. CPR Truck & Trailer Repairs has become an industry leader in heavy vehicle servicing, scheduled maintenance, diagnostics and repairs, while CPR Automotive Services offers reliable fleet servicing, mine spec fit-outs and more for site operations.
The newest division, CPR Fabrication & Engineering, has quickly gained a strong reputation for quality and value with component repair and service exchange programs, workshop equipment, Access Safe maintenance platforms, complex design and engineering capability and more.
Due to rapid growth, CPR Fabrication recently relocated to a new workshop, now sharing the same site as CPR’s automotive and truck repair teams. This move has enabled CPR Fabrication to invest in its team and equipment, including a state-of-the-art Durma AD-S 220-tonne 5-axis CNC press brake, further enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and ensuring in house quality control and consistent timeframes. With all divisions now operating from the same site, CPR Group has streamlined its workshop resources.
CPR Group’s high-quality solutions are backed by ISO 9001 Quality, ISO 14001 Environmental Management and ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety. Proudly certified Australian owned and manufactured, CPR understand the tough environment our solutions face and with this in mind are designed for purpose and built to last.
With a big year ahead, CPR Group will continue to expand its capabilities, delivering tough, durable, and safe solutions to industries nationwide.
EARTHTRACK GROUP
Mining operations demand efficiency. Equipment failures, lighting downtime and high maintenance costs disrupt productivity and impact the bottom line. Earthtrack eliminates these challenges with high-performance solar and hybrid lighting solutions, designed to maximise uptime and minimise operational costs.
For over a decade, Earthtrack has provided reliable, low maintenance lighting systems to mines across Australia. It’s product range includes the industry-defining Dominator Solar and Hybrid Lighting Trailers, Mega G3 Solar Lighting Tower, Maxi Solar Lighting Tower and Mini Lighting Tower.
Engineered for durability and superior illumination, these lighting solutions ensure safe, well-lit work environments where fixed power options are impractical or too costly.
Managing Director, Barry Bloomfield, emphasised Earthtrack’s commitment to providing practical and efficient alternatives to traditional diesel and fixed AC lighting.
“Mining companies need dependable lighting that reduces costs and prevents downtime.
“Our modular, solar-first hybrid systems ensure uninterrupted operations, with forkliftable diesel generators that can be serviced at the workshop while the trailer remains operational in the field.”
Mining operations cannot afford disruptions due to lighting failures. Traditional diesel powered towers require frequent refuelling and maintenance, leading to costly delays.
Earthtrack’s solar-first hybrid lighting solutions eliminate these inefficiencies.
“Our Dominator and Mega Series Solar Lighting Towers are designed for performance and reliability,” Barry explained.
“With automated deployment, high-output LED fixtures, and modular battery systems, they deliver uninterrupted lighting while slashing fuel and servicing costs. Our hybrid trailers allow for generator servicing without site downtime, ensuring constant illumination and operational efficiency.”
Designed for mining’s harshest environments, Earthtrack’s lighting solutions are built to withstand extreme conditions. Whether it’s dust, heat, or remote site locations, its systems provide reliable, high-output lighting without unnecessary fuel dependency.
“Our solutions challenge the perception of solar energy in mining.
“With efficient LEDs and high performing solar systems, our lighting towers deliver superior performance that meets the industry’s operational demands.”
Earthtrack does more than supply lighting; working with site managers to implement tailored solutions that improve safety and efficiency.
“When you work with us, you’re getting expert consultation to determine the best lighting solution for your site.
“We understand site conditions, safety requirements and operational goals. From initial consultation to installation and after-sales support, we deliver proven results.”
Earthtrack’s commitment to operational efficiency has led to strong partnerships across the mining sector, with companies reporting significant cost savings and improved site safety after adopting Earthtrack’s lighting solutions.
With a strong focus on research and development, Earthtrack are pushing the boundaries of site infrastructure innovation, continuing to develop smarter, more adaptable lighting solutions to meet the evolving needs of the mining industry.
“The industry is changing, and we are leading that change,” said Barry.
“We’re focused on improving efficiency, reducing costs and ensuring our clients stay ahead of operational challenges.
“Our goal is simple: to deliver the most reliable lighting solutions that keep mining operations productive and safe.”
As mining companies seek cost effective and high-performing lighting alternatives, Earthtrack is proving that efficiency and performance are at the core of innovation with solutions to keep sites running – no downtime, no unnecessary costs, just smarter lighting for better mining operations.
FIRE RESPONSE
Fire Response’s Nick Foran is a leading authority on the performance of water cannons and washdown facilities in mining and industrial settings. With extensive experience visiting mine sites across Australia, testing and installing equipment, and advising on optimal setups, Nick has identified a concerning trend – over the past two years, a staggering 93% fail rate in NFPA11-2024 proportioning accuracy for water carts. This presents a serious risk to site safety, personnel, and the environment.
Water carts, primarily used for dust suppression and washdown, also serve as critical firefighting assets. However, many are not correctly set up, lack regular maintenance, or contain incompatible parts.
“It’s not enough for a system to generate white, fluffy foam – it must be accurately proportioned to effectively contain or extinguish a fire,” explains Nick.
Regular hydraulic and foam proportioning testing ensures that the water delivery system is compatible with the nozzle and that the foam meets the necessary performance criteria. Routine testing puts operators in a stronger position to handle fire emergencies, safeguarding both lives and assets.
The transition away from Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is well underway, with growing industry and regulatory pressure to adopt fluorine-free alternatives. While the environmental and health benefits are clear, finding a suitable replacement that withstands the harsh Australian mining environment has been a challenge.
Fire Response has addressed this need by offering a comprehensive portfolio of next-generation foams that provide outstanding knockdown performance, burn-back resistance, and superior environmental responsibility. At the forefront is Silvara I, a world-class firefighting foam that is enhancing the safety of mine sites across Australia.
Silvara I is a 1% concentrate, making it both efficient and cost-effective. Unlike pseudoplastic-based foam concentrates, it has a lower viscosity, preventing common issues such as gelification, peel formation, and pipe jams. Clients who have switched to Silvara I have reported significant improvements in fire suppression performance and foam proportioning test results.
Effective firefighting relies on precise foam proportioning and adequate water flow rates. The only way to ensure compliance with safety regulations is through routine testing. At one major mining site, Fire Response conducts a comprehensive testing protocol every three months to evaluate water cart systems. This proactive approach identifies deficiencies, enables timely corrective actions, and ensures compliance with insurance underwriter requirements – providing additional financial protection.
Beyond firefighting, Fire Response also specialises in washpad equipment, helping mining clients streamline operations. Through testing and washpad assessments, they have reduced machine washing times from 2–3 hours per machine to just 20–30 minutes by implementing robotic water cannons. This innovation minimises downtime, improves equipment availability, and enhances productivity.
They have also developed a new foam transfer system designed for high-efficiency foam transfer from a 1000L container to a truck or smaller container. The system delivers up to 175 litres per minute (LPM), making it ideal for fast and reliable foam handling to reduce downtime and the subsequent impact on productivity.
Nick strongly advocates for a proactive testing regimen to maintain operational readiness and mitigate risks.
“The importance of testing onsite mining water cannon and foam proportioning equipment cannot be overstated. It is not merely a procedural requirement but a linchpin of safety, efficiency, and resilience in mining operations,” he emphasises.
By embracing proactive testing and high-performance firefighting solutions, mining operations can safeguard lives, assets, and the long-term sustainability of the industry.
FLEXCO
For more than a century, Flexco has been at the forefront of belt-fastening innovation. Founded in 1907 in a small workshop in Chicago, Illinois, the company pioneered the first mechanical belt fastener designed for leather belting.
Over the years, Flexco has expanded its expertise, holding more than 75 patents for mechanical belt fasteners and installation tools. Today, it is a global leader in mechanical belt splicing solutions, serving a wide range of bulk material handling industries, including underground coal mining.
Mechanical belt fasteners play a crucial role in underground coal mining operations as the belt length is constantly changing. Underground conveyor belts need to be extended as operations progress further into a mine and shortened as operations retract. Mechanical fasteners allow the on-site crew to quickly respond to these changes and repair and join conveyor belts efficiently.
Conveyor output and overall operational productivity can be significantly impacted by mechanical belt fastener durability. If your fastening system cannot withstand the harsh conditions of underground coal mines, premature splice failure will occur leading to frequent belt repairs and disruptions to the operation.
The Flexco® XP™ Staple Belt Fastening System continues Flexco’s legacy of innovation by combining an enhanced applicator tool with a long-wearing staple fastener and hinge pin to produce a superior belt splice for tough mining environments.
“Fastener longevity was at the forefront of the XP Staple Belt Fastening System design. The finished splice has a smooth, low profile which discourages damage to belt cleaners and other conveyor components, dramatically increasing the wear life”, said Flexco NSW Territory Manager, Khy McLennan.
The use of cold-rolled steel provides uniform mechanical properties and increased tensile strength of up to 50%. Along with increased strength, the staples are preset in the fastener and the larger loop area accepts bigger pins for easier insertion and extended splice life.
“One of the biggest issues for underground conveyors is the longevity of conveyor components.
“Shutting down a conveyor to repair a damaged clip is extremely disruptive. You’ve got to stop the belt and the longwall operations, so fastener durability is critical.
“The type of mechanical fasteners used for splicing should have excellent tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and durability. They should be able to withstand the heavy loads and constant wear and tear that occur during the transportation of coal.
“The XP system shines in these underground operations. It’s versatile, easy to use, and quick to set up. We’re seeing a whole new level of capability in terms of how these underground mining operations manage their belt maintenance schedules.”
Flexco has recently completed a trial at an underground coal mine in NSW, where the XP fastener lasted 14 weeks longer than a competitor staple fastener.
The site reached out to a Flexco distributor with concerns that their existing staple fastener was frequently failing prematurely, causing major disruptions to their production.
While the existing fasteners failed within three weeks, falling outside the acceptable limits of their Triggered Action Response Plan (TARP), the XP™ fasteners performed impressively for 17 weeks and were only replaced due to a scheduled belt change.
“If operations have the potential to keep running a conveyor for another 14 weeks without stopping, it significantly helps production rates, reduces maintenance windows and saves them money.”
MLA HOLDINGS
MLA Holdings has grown to be one of Australia’s most important material handling equipment companies, supplying and maintaining a comprehensive range of gas, diesel, petrol and battery electric forklifts for short or long-term rental or purchase nationwide.
MLA was established in 1980 with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to sell and distribute Mitsubishi Forklift trucks in Australia. The company has grown to now also distribute Nichiyu Electric Forklifts, MLA Vulcan Equipment, and, most recently, HELI Heavy Capacity Forklifts.
With eight branches across the country in Newcastle, Sydney, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and now Wollongong, as well as an extensive regional authorised dealer network, they are uniquely positioned to service customers right across Australia.
Since its inception, MLA has forged a reputation for excellence in customer service, safety, operational reliability, engineering and equipment maintenance; Proof of this can be seen by the number of major companies who have been with MLA for many years.
The company employs over 150 people across the country from apprentices to technicians, office staff and sales and service teams.
At MLA, you don’t just buy or hire a forklift. The company prides itself on delivering on its promise to provide exceptional aftersales service and support once the equipment is supplied, which includes preventative service maintenance and repairs.
The MLA team has the expertise to service and maintain every make and model of forklift available in the Australian marketplace. It has a fleet of mobile service technicians ready when a customer most needs it because they understand how crucial it is for customers to minimise downtime.
With a history of distributing robust, quality and dependable forklifts that are ‘built to last,’ today, MLA’s comprehensive range includes 1t pallet movers to 45t capacity Reach Stackers and everything in between.
In addition to offering Mitsubishi, Nichiyu and MLA Vulcan products, earlier this year MLA became the Australian distributor of HELI Reach Stackers and HELI Heavy Forklifts 16-46Tonne.
HELI Reach Stackers are state-of-the-art machines designed and manufactured for the intensity of round-the-clock container handling applications. The HELI 16-46t range of heavy-duty industrial forklift trucks also provides performance, reliability and dependability in the most arduous of applications.
Both the HELI Reach Stackers and HELI Heavy Forklifts include quality features and components associated with all leading brands in this class of equipment, such as trusted drive train components, Cummins QSB 6.7 Engines, ZF automatic transmissions, Kessler drive axles and Parker and Permco hydraulics.
Advanced features for operator comfort and safety include electric tilting cabin, reversing camera and sensors, air suspension seating and combine a durable carriage and fork design with a luxurious cabin environment.
Introducing the HELI range helps cement MLA’s reputation as a total material handling solutions provider and building on its reputation for producing mine specific units for companies such as Glencore, Thiess and Tomago Aluminum to name a few.
MLA has the people, total product solutions, national service capability and proven commitment to deliver quality, cost-effective material handling solutions and support for its customers.
MINE SAFETY TECHNICAL SERVICES
The new SYB-30 from CSE Corporation is revolutionising the world of self-contained self-rescuers (SCSR) with its unparalleled combination of lightness, durability, and reliability. Designed with input from customers and rigorously tested to ensure the highest levels of performance and safety, the SYB-30 offers a groundbreaking solution for emergency situations.
Mine Safety Technical Services (MSTS), is the exclusive distributor of CSE SCSRs on Australia’s eastern seaboard. Lachlan Bate, MSTS Service and Business Development Manager, explains some of the SYB-30’s features.
“The SYB-30 is one of the lightest and most advanced 30-minute belt-wearable SCSR on the market, offering an innovative design that makes it rapid to don and easier to use, transport, and maintain, all while ensuring optimal safety for its users.”
Lightweight and Compact Design
At only 2.2 kg when stored and 1.6 kg when worn, the SYB-30 sets a new standard for chemical based oxygen generating self-rescuers. Its compact form makes it easy to carry, ensuring that workers and emergency responders can wear it comfortably for extended periods without being burdened by heavy equipment.
The ergonomic, high-impact thermal composite shell is both waterproof and anti-static, offering superior protection in a variety of environments, from damp and wet conditions to high temperatures and harsh industrial settings.
The unit is also engineered with recessed, impact-resistant humidity and temperature indicators, ensuring that the user has clear visibility of critical information regarding the device’s condition in real-time.
“This user-friendly design is tailored to deliver peace of mind, knowing that the equipment is functioning optimally in any environmental condition,” explained Lachlan.
Maintenance-Free Reliability
Unlike traditional self-rescue devices that require regular servicing and maintenance, the SYB-30 only requires a simple visual inspection before each shift and every 90 days on stored units. This eliminates the need for frequent maintenance while ensuring that the device is always in peak working condition. The dual serial numbers on the top and bottom casings allow for easy identification and tracking, while an imbedded RFID tag further simplifies asset management and tracking.
The tamper-proof breakaway pin and release tabs add another layer of security, ensuring that the device remains intact during transport and use, preventing unauthorised access and accidental release. This system is designed to minimise risk and ensure that the SCSR is ready to use when needed most.
Extended Service Life
The SYB-30 has a remarkable maximum service life of 10-years, whether it is stored, transported, or carried. With no need for complex servicing or maintenance during its operational life, the SYB-30 ensures that its users are always prepared for unexpected emergencies without additional downtime or expense.
Comfort and Ease of Use
The intuitive user control system on the SYB-30, powered by QuickStart technology, allows for immediate oxygen flow once deployed. This feature is essential during emergency situations when every second counts. The unit also includes a free-flowing, flexible, one-piece Zero-Kink hose and a contoured mouthpiece, ensuring user comfort and reducing mouth fatigue, even during extended use.
To further enhance comfort, the device is equipped with adjustable neck and waist straps, allowing users to tailor the fit to their body for optimal comfort and mobility. The multi-layer laminated breathing bag is heat and flame-resistant, providing an added layer of safety in high-risk environments. This encapsulating heat shield adds protection to the entire operating unit, ensuring that it continues to function reliably even under extreme conditions.
“The SYB-30 is a game-changer in the field of self-rescue equipment,” said Lachlan.
“It has been engineered with the user in mind, making it lightweight, durable, and easy-to-maintain; ensuring that safety and convenience are prioritised in critical situations.”
NATIONAL GROUP
National Group is implementing the largest recruitment campaign in its history and boosting investment in its fleet, in response to rising demand for its services from coal producers in Queensland and NSW.
National Group Founder and Managing Director Mark Ackroyd says contract extensions for its work in coal was a highlight last year for the privately owned equipment hire and mining services company.
“It’s pleasing when our longstanding customers in coal ask National Group to do more work for them,” he says.
“It’s also a strong vote of confidence in the quality of our work and the value we add in Australian coal.”
National Group has a long history coal. They have supplied equipment for coal mines across Australia for almost two decades, working with many of the world’s tier-one miners. By commodity, metallurgical coal is the largest part of National Group’s operations.
In NSW, National Group continues to expand its presence in coal. In late 2022, National Group was awarded a three-year mining services contract at Yancoal’s Moolarben coal mine in the Western coalfields of NSW.
Expansion in NSW coal is a priority for National Group, says Ackroyd.
“We are pleased with the results so far from Moolarben and believe National Group has the infrastructure, people and experience to assist more coal mines in NSW.”
National Group expects to announce new contracts or extensions with coal producers in 2025.
“We have a lot of current and potential work in coal.
“We’re doing plenty of work behind the scenes to ensure National Group can take on additional projects across more coal mines.”
National Group is gearing up for growth and expects to hire almost 100 staff this year to meet rising demand for its services, taking its workforce to around 300 by year’s end. The company’s workforce has more than doubled in the past two years.
“In a competitive labour market, National Group continues to attract top talent – individuals who are both customer-focused and aligned with our company culture.
“Many of our new hires will be stationed at coal mines across Australia, with a growing number of diesel mechanics joining our team. Through increased investment in our apprenticeship program, we are committed to developing skilled professionals who play a crucial role in the coal industry. A strong pipeline of well-trained diesel mechanics is not only a valuable asset to the sector, but also a key driver of our success.”
Fleet investment is another focus.
In 2023, National Group embarked on the largest engine upgrade in its history with Komatsu Australia and Cummins South Pacific for 16 Komatsu 830E haul trucks used at the Lake Lindsay and Oak Park coal mines in the Bowen Basin. The project, which concluded last year, lowered fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and extended engine life.
“A number of big dozers, graders and excavators will be added to our fleet this year. It’s part of our strategy to offer the latest tier-one equipment and energy-efficient technology to coal producers.”
Ackroyd is proud of National Group’s work in coal and excited about its future. The company is increasing its support for coal-mining industry events this year and remains optimistic about the coal industry’s outlook.
“Exports of Australian metallurgical coal are at elevated levels and there is a greater recognition worldwide that coal will be an important part of the global energy mix for a long time to come.
“That optimism is matched by what we are seeing on the ground and the rising demand for National Group’s services in Australian coal.”
NEWCASTLE HI-TENSILE BOLT COMPANY
Over the last 50 years, Newcastle Hi-Tensile Bolt Company (NHTB) has grown to become the largest stockholder of fasteners in the Newcastle and Hunter region, supplying thousands of companies spanning the mining, construction, manufacturing, engineering, automotive, rail, civil and maritime industries. If anyone knows the nuts and bolts of running a successful business, it’s them!
NHTB Director Mat Barker said that while the company has grown substantially since its early days, they remain focused on what’s most important – delivering outstanding customer service.
“When the company began it sold nuts, bolts and fasteners and that’s about it. While these products are still a core part of our business and always will be, our inventory now encompasses a huge range of industrial supplies and consumables.
“From abrasives to cutting tools, hand tools, chemicals, adhesives, safety PPE, lifting, welding, rigging and even stainless hardware. Our product line has over 50,000 products and is still growing.”
While NHTB has plenty of stock standard nuts and bolts, Mat said they also manufacture items specifically for customer needs, such as bolts, screws and threaded rods.
“For example, we will get a call from a mining company chasing a bolt that you can’t just buy off the shelf and needs to be custom manufactured.
“While a bolt might not seem that important, it can be a highly critical component to keep that machine operating. It’s great to be able to provide our customers with what they need when they are in trouble and help prevent downtime while they wait around for replacement parts.”
Mat said their fast turnaround and delivery was a source of pride for the company.
“We’ve also made it easy for people to order what they need as soon as they need it. Whether it’s directly from our Sales Reps on the road, at our premises from our in-house sales team or ordering any time day or night from our online store. Our Warehouse team are always ready to fulfill orders and get them out the door and we even operate a 24/7 out of hour’s emergency service for when customers have a critical need.”
Mat said that going from nuts, bolts and fasteners to have an inventory that includes everything from drills and taps to abrasives and lubricants was a natural evolution for the company and they will continue to expand into the future.
“A lot of our inventory has grown simply because a client has asked for something we don’t already stock and we’ve decided to get it in because looking after our clients is always our number one priority.
“We do everything we can to make working with us easy. Our sales reps work personally with clients, providing a full vendor managed stock service. This includes the setting up of bins, cabinets and even labelling. Our clients know they can trust us to keep their stock levels at the quantity they want, and at competitive prices.
“Having a reputation for being knowledgeable, reliable and always putting our customers first is what has led to our success for the last fifty years and we plan on continuing to do exactly the same for the next fifty.”
PATON DIESEL SERVICES
In just a few years, Damon Paton has transformed a one-man operation into a successful business specialising in machine rebuilds, precise component overhauls and reliable labour hire support.
“When I started in 2016 it was me in my ute driving round providing servicing to the mining and quarry industries as a sole trader,” said Damon.
“In 2019, I established Paton Diesel Service, hired our first employee and found a little workshop to operate out of. We were mainly doing component work and a bit of labour hire while we focused on growing our customer base.”
Grow they did, and today there are more than three dozen employees working for the business from diesel fitters to engine reconditioners, auto electricians and blasters and painters.
“We have a built a team that is backed by extensive experience and a wealth of knowledge. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it has allowed us to perfect the art of delivering high-quality results while keeping costs reasonable.
“At our heavy machinery rebuild facility, we specialise in providing comprehensive, in-house overhauls for mining components, engines and machines. Every aspect of the machinery is thoroughly inspected, repaired and optimised to perform at its peak. From dismantling to reassembly, we handle it all with precision and care, ensuring that heavy machinery is restored to its full operational capacity.”
That dedication to excellence also extends to heavy diesel engine overhauls.
“What sets us apart is our in-house machining capabilities for cranks and blocks. From innovative R&D initiatives to meticulous machining processes, every aspect of our heavy diesel engine overhauls is designed to elevate the performance of heavy diesel engines to new heights.”
Damon said they are committed to streamlining processes, so customers receive a superior product that is value for money without compromising on durability or performance.
In addition, the business’ ever growing stock of service exchange components also helps to ensure clients not only meet budgetary constraints, but time restraints as well.
“We are constantly building on our list of service exchange components ready for work. We know how important it is to minimise downtime and maximise productivity. Clients can bring in their worn out components and have them instantly replaced with components that we have ready to go.
“We have a wide range of components in stock including 793F, D11 KSN and D10T2 engines. If we don’t have it, then we can assist in sourcing it.
“By offering this service we can provide our customers with a low-risk, highly cost-effective way to replace aged components with our reconditioned components and we stand by everything we supply with competitive warranties.
“Since our establishment we are constantly evolving but our core values remain the same, operating with unwavering integrity to ensure the delivery of top-tier services. We believe in offering value to our clients and I think one of the main reasons behind our success is our ability to offer a complete package that you won’t find elsewhere.
“It’s not just about a sale to us; it’s about building relationships with our customers. We are always available to answer questions and work with clients to get the results they want.”
REPEAT MANUFACTURING
Repeat Manufacturing has been supplying the mining industry for over two decades, manufacturing parts for underground mining stabilisation, including anchors, pump parts and valves. Owner and operator John Wakem is a problem solver, working with companies here and overseas to supply solutions.
Repeat Manufacturing is based on the Central Coast of NSW and started back in 2003 when John decided enough was enough and he should start his own business.
“I worked at a company for a number of years after a serious back and neck injury, and they wouldn’t give me the opportunities I was after. I got fed up and said to my wife I am basically running this business so maybe I should run my own!
“We found an ad in the newspaper for a small business which I decided to purchase and make my own. At the time the business came with some automatic machines and a milling machine, and I purchased a couple of manual lathes.
“I started doing work for a company called Ground Consolidation, I made some parts for them, and they then gave me a product to develop which was the wings and ropes.
“Ground Consolidation later became Minova and they started doing some underground stabilisation work. I got a lot of work through them and helped develop many products over the years.
“I started to get inquiries from other companies as well including company DSI which is fairly big in the industry.
“We moved the business into a new factory in Somersby in 2013. It enhanced our capabilities to not only be able to create enough product to supply locally, but also internationally including to a gold mine in New Zealand.”
The list of products John has created is long, but his main focus is parts for underground stabilisation, pump parts for pumping chemicals underground, anchors for walls and the underground roofing, various valves that are manufactured from 316 stainless steel and many other parts.
John prides himself on being able to manufacture 100% Australian made products to suit any problem in the mining industry.
“I’m a creator, I like to innovate new products and design new things that work. I like to take a product and make it better,” said John.
After being in business for so many years John has taken many apprentices through their training.
“I have successfully put a dozen or so apprentices through their training, one of them being Joel Alexander. Joel worked for me for a number of years and then started his own business called Real Engineering. With my help he’s been able to get that business to a point where he can now do conveyor parts, he has six CNC machines, a large-scale fabrication workshop where he does anything from ute bodies to trailer parts and mining equipment.
“So we have the capability to manufacture just about anything the mining companies need between the two of us!
“Our main focus is and always will be supplying good quality products that work.”
STRATA WORLDWIDE
Strata Worldwide is committed to driving advancements in safety, offering a range of cutting-edge systems and technologies that fall under three core pillars: Support, Protect and Connect.
Graeme Naylor, Strata Worldwide QLD Regional Manager, said that while the company was initially known for its ground support products, its drive to make the mining industry safer has expanded its offerings to include everything from communications networks to AI and proximity detection technologies.
“When the company was formed in the early 90s, it was all about supporting our clients with products centered around the physical strata of the working environment. For example, in the coal industry, we were best known for our flagship ground support products, Link-N-Locks and Propsetters,” said Graeme.
“In 2007, we branched into our second product pillar, Protect, introducing our underground refuge chambers before going on to advance products such as our proximity detection and collision avoidance systems.
“Complementing all of this is our third pillar, Connect, which encompasses our extensive range of communication and environmental monitoring technologies.
“These three pillars represent what matters most to us, making working environments safer and more productive.”
For over twenty years, Strata Worldwide has ensured that if an emergency occurs, its trusted refuge chambers are there to protect workers. The newest addition to its range is the Strata Emergency Refuge Chamber Modular (ERCM), which is both economical and versatile. It has been designed with a series of attachable sections, allowing it to be modified to meet the changing needs of a project, site, or even the size of a workforce.
While the refuge chamber ensures that workers are protected in worst-case scenarios, Strata Worldwides proximity detection and avoidance collision technologies aim to prevent incidents before they occur.
HazardAVERT is an electromagnetic proximity detection system developed to prevent crushing and pinning-type accidents in mining environments. The system detects when a person enters a potentially dangerous area around machinery and automatically sends warning alerts. If no corrective action is taken, or in the event of a sudden emergency, HazardAVERT can be interlocked into the equipment’s controls to automatically slow and/or stop the machinery completely.
“I’ve spent much time over the past 20 years on surface and underground mines, and before this technology, coal mines had to rely heavily on Admin in the hierarchy of controls to protect its workers”
“These technologies are Engineering controls that are dependable and simple to integrate. It supports safer practices of the worker because, unfortunately, people make mistakes, whereas this technology is designed to alleviate the human error aspect”
Complementing HazardAVERT is HazardAI, which is designed to modify unsafe worker behaviors and keep personnel out of harm’s way. The all-in-one solution uses sensors to detect and differentiate between people, vehicles, and objects in close proximity, using stereoscopic vision to measure distance and advanced algorithms to analyse the potential for collision.
“The back-end SafeSITE system and HazardAI give site managers confidence that workers and heavy machinery will be kept at safe distances while effecting actual, long-lasting safety-based workforce behavioral change via our SafeSITE AI platform.
“What’s more, both HazardAI and HazardAVERT will ensure you are covered with a vehicle/pedestrian proximity detection system, be it on the surface or underground.
“Both technologies continuously monitor and log everything from system operating status, warning alarms, machinery overrides, and machinery interactions. This data can be downloaded on-site for analysis and reporting or wirelessly streamed to dispatch using our communications systems.”
As the company’s capabilities continue to grow, Graeme said one thing will always remain the same: their commitment to customer service and support.
“We don’t just want mine sites to come to us for products; we want them to come to us because they see us as a trusted adviser, not only in keeping their workplaces safe but also in making them as efficient and productive as possible.”
TRUFLO PUMPING SYSTEMS
Truflo Pumping Systems deliver market leading mine dewatering solutions across Australia and internationally, partnering with clients to deliver the best possible pumps. This is due, in part, to their AquaBoss Asset Protection controller which has transformed the landscape of pump control technology.
AquaBoss’ user-friendly interface is backed up by intelligent curve mapping technology. This sophisticated system ensures optimal performance while providing comprehensive protection for both pumping systems and engines.
National Operations Manager, Jason Bemrose, emphasises the significance of the AquaBoss.
“Working alongside hydraulic engineers, maintenance teams, pump crews and our dedicated R&D department, we’ve created a controller that delivers outstanding long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness for our clients.
“With over three years of rigorous development and field testing, the AquaBoss control panel has set new standards for asset protection in the mining industry, both in Australia and globally.”
“As industry research shows that a mere 10% of pumping systems reach their projected lifespan, our focus has been on finding the perfect balance between energy efficiency and operational reliability,” explains Martin Richardson, Truflo Pumps’ National Sales Manager.
“We understand that in mining, downtime isn’t just inconvenient – it’s costly. That’s where AquaBoss comes to the fore.
“It makes life easier for the pump crews, all while maintaining ideal operating parameters which significantly reduces wear and tear as well as downtime. Ultimately, it helps deliver substantial cost savings through extended equipment life.”
With real-time monitoring, early issue detection and automated curve optimisation the AquaBoss control panel protects both the engine and wet-end all while minimising the risk of cavitation.
“AquaBoss contributes to a shift from reactive to proactive maintenance,” said Jason.
“Its predictive capabilities identify upcoming service requirements, enabling planned maintenance and minimising unexpected downtime. We welcome mining operations to experience this revolutionary technology through a personalised demonstration.”
Truflo Pumps maintain an extensive inventory of dewatering systems ready for immediate deployment but their expertise shines in creating bespoke solutions. The company specialises in developing customised systems that are effective, efficient and economical – addressing specific challenges in both open-cut and underground mining operations.
“Our pump-sets are fast priming and move more water using less fuel than most pumps on the market,” says Martin Richardson.
“Feedback from mine sites has been overwhelmingly positive with people telling us ‘…the Truflo Pumps are by far the best we’ve ever had on site’ and ‘we are going to just use Truflo Pumps’. We’re extremely proud of the quality we build into every pump – they’re rugged, reliable and deliver real value.”
Truflo Pumps range includes everything from trailer-mounted through to pontoon and skid-mounted pump-sets, as well as truck fill points, fishtanks and the like – diesel and/or electric. They also supply dewatering solutions for underground operations – Heliflo (helical rotor pumps) and Jumbo Pumps. Their experienced team of engineers and mechanics also provide full service and repairs.
Truflo Pumps is more than happy to design a dewatering system that will best match your needs and give you years of reliable service.
