Tell us about the business.
Expressway Spares is one of the largest independent global suppliers of new, used, and reconditioned parts and components suitable for Caterpillar and Hitachi equipment. With a strong focus on the heavy mining and earthmoving industries, we pride ourselves on offering quality alternatives to the OEM’s, supported by decades of technical knowledge and customer service.
We operate from five key locations across Australia’s mining regions: Hunter Valley, Mackay, Perth, Gunnedah, and our Head Office in Wauchope, NSW.
How long have you been doing business?
We’ve just celebrated an incredible milestone – 60 years in business! Founded in December 1964 by Gerard and Francoise Cassegrain, Expressway Spares began as a small operation on the Pacific Highway in Wauchope, originally servicing the local logging industry. With the decline in the timber industry, we transitioned into serving the broader mining and earthmoving sectors.
How many people work for the business?
Today, we proudly employ over 380 dedicated staff nationally, all playing a vital role in delivering quality service and products to our customers.
Describe a typical day at ‘The office’.
Every day is dynamic and hands-on. Our operations include dismantling used equipment, carrying out full machine rebuilds, rebuilding and testing parts and components, unloading containers of new parts and quality control inspections. We also manage customer breakdowns, and support research and development of new and improved parts and processes. Whether it’s restocking shelves or providing urgent solutions to customers, each day brings a mix of technical challenges and teamwork.
What are the biggest challenges facing your business?
The mining and construction sectors are constantly evolving, which means shifting demands and rapid advancements in machinery and technology. Staying ahead of these changes is crucial. To meet this challenge, we’ve invested in a dedicated team focused on Research & Development, Quality Assurance, and expanding our product knowledge base to ensure we continue delivering reliable and innovative solutions.
What are the biggest opportunities for your business right now?
There is a growing demand for high-quality parts and components that offer value for money. Our opportunity lies in continuing to provide superior products and workmanship at competitive prices to both existing and new customers. Expanding our global reach and reinforcing our reputation for reliability remain key focus areas.
What is the business most proud of?
We’re incredibly proud to be a family-owned Australian business with 60 years of history. Our longevity is a testament to the hard work of our team and our unwavering commitment to quality. It’s the people behind Expressway Spares who make the real difference – our staff, some with decades of service, who consistently deliver excellence.
Community or other causes close to its heart and values?
Community is at the heart of what we do. We support numerous causes across Australia, from sponsoring local sports teams our staff are involved in or to donating goods for charity raffles. We proudly participate in the Variety Bash with our “Froggy Wrecker,” a 1978 XC Ford Falcon and support the Harry Perkins Institute. Our team founded Christmas Skids for Kids, benefiting our local children in hospital and raising over $33,000 for Beyond Blue. Both our staff and the company contribute regularly to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Any employees that deserve a shout out?
Geoff Fowler deserves special recognition for his 50 years of service. Starting at just 16 in the wrecking yard, Geoff progressed into sales and purchasing and now serves as our National Operations Manager. A story shared by former MD Patrick Cassegrain illustrates his dedication: After a week in Nigeria, Geoff declined a few days sightseeing in London to return straight to work – true commitment!
