Tell us about the business.
Smart State Rentals is a family-owned and operated vehicle rental business based in Mackay and one of the region’s largest locally owned rental companies. Proudly servicing the mining, construction, commercial and local community sectors since 2000, we provide reliable transport solutions across Mackay and the Bowen Basin.
With a large fleet of mine-spec and commercial vehicles, we specialise in supporting mining companies, FIFO workers, contractors, businesses and local customers with flexible and dependable vehicle hire solutions.
Our fleet includes mine-compliant 4WDs, dual cab utes, commuter buses, passenger vehicles, moving vans and trucks. All vehicles are maintained to strict safety and operational standards by our expert in-house mechanical team at Fourways Auto Care.
How long have you been doing business?
Since 2000.
How many people work for the business?
Currently 17.
Describe a typical day at the office.
A typical day at Smart State Rentals is fast-paced, hands-on and team-focused. Our staff work together to prepare vehicles, coordinate bookings, manage customer enquiries, organise contracts and ensure vehicles are clean, compliant and ready for the road or mine site.
With customers ranging from mining companies and contractors to FIFO workers and local families, no two days are ever the same. Constant communication between our front office, management, detailers and workshop team ensures vehicles are maintained, available and back on the road with minimal downtime.
What are the biggest challenges facing your business?
One of the biggest challenges facing the business is competing with large national rental companies and outsourced providers. While larger corporations may have bigger marketing budgets and national contracts, Smart State Rentals continues to focus on personalised service, local knowledge, flexibility and fast response times.
Like many regional businesses, rising operational costs, staffing pressures and supply chain delays also continue to impact the industry.
What are the biggest opportunities for your business right now?
The continued growth of the mining, construction, and infrastructure sectors across Mackay and the Bowen Basin presents major opportunities for Smart State Rentals. Increasing demand for reliable mine-spec and commercial vehicles allows us to continue expanding while delivering the personalised service and flexibility that larger providers often can’t match.
What is the business most proud of?
Smart State Rentals is proud of building a trusted reputation for reliability, flexibility and genuine customer service over the past 25 years. As a locally owned family business, we take pride in the long-term relationships we’ve built with customers, businesses and the wider community across Mackay and the Bowen Basin.
Community or other causes close to its heart and values?
Smart State Rentals is passionate about supporting the local community and the industries that keep the region moving. We proudly support the Mackay Cutters rugby league teams and value creating opportunities for young people through sport.
We believe the lessons learned through teamwork, discipline and hard work reflect the same values that drive our business every day. Supporting local jobs, businesses and long-term community relationships remains central to who we are.
Any employees that deserve a shout out?
Smart State Rentals would not be where it is today without founder Louis Kinsey, who sadly passed away last year. Alongside his wife of 58 years, Maxine, Louis built the business from the ground up with hard work, dedication and strong family values. Maxine continues to lead the business alongside her children, Damien and Madonna, while carrying on Louis’ legacy and vision for the company.
Every member of the Smart State Rentals team deserves recognition. From the front office and detailers to management and the workshop team, everyone plays an important role in the success of the business. We’ve built a close-knit team culture where people work hard together, support each other, and take pride in keeping our customers moving.
