FLS has upgraded its service operations in Mackay, relocating to a larger facility and cementing its commitment to the region. The expanded centre is designed to provide faster access to critical spare parts, handle major equipment rebuilds, and deliver a broader range of services to the mining industry.
“We had two smaller centres in the region – a field service depot here in Mackay for roughly 10 years and a small service centre in Rockhampton,” explained Ian van Zyl, Head of Service Centers.
“We needed to consolidate into a bigger centre. Mackay was chosen for its central location, proximity to customers, and because it’s a great place to live and work.”
The larger facility also allows FLS to focus on speed and efficiency.
“We want to deliver parts in days, not weeks or months,” said Kenny Don, Head of Sales & Service ASEA.
“That’s the name of the game: speed. We’re putting plenty of stock here and empowering our sales force to drive agile inventory so customers get what they need, when they need it.”
Ian highlighted the facility’s advanced infrastructure.
“The biggest differentiator is the 130-tonne overhead crane. It means we can pick up any of the largest pieces of equipment in the region and handle them all under one roof.”
These enhanced capabilities don’t just improve operations – they also allow FLS to support a wider region more effectively. The facility will be key to servicing customers along the northeast coast, including operations in Mount Isa.
“It completes our coverage on the East Coast because we already have Brisbane, Beresfield and Melbourne,” said Kenny.
“Being closer to customers means we can provide faster service, help improve recovery, throughput, safety and water usage. We really are a one-stop shop.”
The upgraded centre also supports FLS’s MissionZero program, which aims for zero-emissions mining by 2030.
“Rebuilds are one of the best ways to reduce your footprint in terms of material and energy usage. One example is FLS valves,” Kenny said.
“Every mine site has piles of valves just sitting there. Ninety percent of the valve is reusable. We’re saving resources and energy by reusing components, and scrap can be sent to foundries to be melted down and remade.
“Our goal is to help our customers mine more efficiently, whether it’s coal, copper or gold.
“That not only helps reduce emissions but also has enormous benefits for productivity. That’s how we drive change in the mining industry.”
FLS’s Mackay expansion is also creating opportunities for local workers.
“We’ve taken on two apprentices for 2026, who will be starting their mechanical apprenticeships next year,” Ian said.
“We also have trades assistants and mechanical fitters coming through. FLS offers learning opportunities and people from Mackay can even become global citizens if they want to pursue roles with the company in other countries.”
Kenny said the company is committed to having a positive impact on the broader community.
“We want to support the community in as many ways as we can whether that be using local vendors for our services or sponsoring local sporting teams. It’s all part of being here for the long term, not just doing business.”
The combination of enhanced infrastructure, faster turnaround and expert support means customers can reduce costly downtime.
“If you can reduce downtime even by an hour, it’s worth a lot. At some mines this cost is measured in dollars per second,” Kenny said.
By bringing services closer to customers, offering agile inventory and supporting a skilled local workforce, FLS is demonstrating that its Mackay expansion is more than a facility upgrade – it’s a strategic investment in the efficiency, sustainability and long-term success of mining operations in the region.
“It’s about reconfirming our long-term commitment to supporting our local customers,” said Kenny.
“We’re here in perpetuity to support them.”
