www.komatsufinance.com.au

“We Understand This Business” Komatsu Corporate Finance is an equipment finance company owned Komatsu Corporate Finance’s reputation as a competitive and flexible by . The company provides the following financier has seen the company supply financial solutions to many services to customers of the Komatsu group: of Australia’s largest companies. • Finance Lease The advantages of using Komatsu Corporate Finance include • Operating Lease competitive rates and flexible repayment structures such as seasonal, • Commercial Hire Purchase structured or hourly rates. In addition, we can tailor solutions to meet your cashflow, currency, taxation, interest rate outlook and balance • Chattel Mortgage (loan secured by a mortgage over the equipment) sheet requirements. By diversifying your funding sources, this means • Power by the Hour™ your bank facilities are free to support your other working capital We use funds supplied by our Japanese shareholders and from other requirements. You can also transfer your equipment resale risk and Japanese capital market sources. maintenance responsibilities to us. As a Komatsu-owned finance company, closely connected to the For more information about Komatsu Corporate Finance, talk to your industry and working directly with Komatsu Australia, local Komatsu Sales Representative or call the following contacts we understand your business better than other financiers. This allows at Komatsu Corporate Finance below. us to tailor a financial solution to best suit your needs.

NSW: Simon Rawther (02) 9795 8222 QLD: Shane Kennedy (07) 3246 6232 VIC & TAS: Peter Johnston (03) 9205 9377 WA, SA & NT: Jason Warnes (08) 9351 0555 CORPORATE FINANCE Mike Gray +64 (9) 920 5300 WILSON-KOM0205 NZ: PRESIDENTS VIEW

As forecasted in our spring edition, Alas, the impact of world events has To support our optimism we are orders for equipment had an influence on our construction continuing to develop our internal have continued to grow allowing and utility customers with higher systems and business processes. substantial growth figures to flow levels of uncertainty hitting the Further enhancements to our through to our financial results. We market place. However, Komatsu Continuous Improvement Program appreciate the support shown to remains upbeat in regards to the be a feature of the next half of Komatsu by an ever increasing range domestic industry after considering this financial year, with expanded of customers. the significant levels of infrastructure resources working with our mining projects currently in the pipeline or customers on key projects. Unfortunately, due to well known soon to be released by governments lead-time issues these orders have Furthermore, Komatsu has rolled across the country. not been easily fulfilled, but we are out a new safety initiative called undergoing continued expansion of Australia still has considerable KALSAFE, allowing greater access to our current branch network which development opportunities which safety information and processes. All will materialise into higher assembly if suitably embraced by the public employees are encouraged to utilise Bill Pike and service capacity in the third sector, would guarantee solid growth this new facility. quarter of this financial year. and prosperity for our industry and President Thank you to all our dedicated the country as a whole. Komatsu has Excellent progress has been recorded Komatsu staff and to our many loyal Komatsu Australia Pty Ltd confidently placed advance orders in our Perth branch expansion as Komatsu customers. on our own factories to secure the well as positive movement towards appropriate level of stock to support a new major branch development in such growth. We are conscious of Brisbane. I look forward to launching the levels of concern in the industry these new facilities to our customers but remain upbeat about the future. in the near future.

CONTENTS CONTRIBUTORS

Editor Wafaa Ghali Customer News Tassie support winner for Komatsu News Copywriter Track Rentals grow plant hire Lloyds North...... 15 Modular releases new mine business rapidly with Komatsu’s productivity systems at Mark Cherrington help...... 4 KOWA success at Pybar...... 18 Minexpo...... 24 Construction Communications

Trust, service and reliability keep Soil conservation service Looking forward as we face Graphic & Layout Design Vassallo coming back...... 6 takes two dozers...... 19 uncertain times...... 25 Megan Burnicle

New WA plant hire firm starts up D51 dozer wins international Highly successful Logov Expo Printed by with Komatsu...... 8 design award...... 19 show in Queensland...... 26 Dominion Colanco Print Group Silverwater, NSW Sam Hazlett: 26 years with Product News Triple Eight supercar team Komatsu...... 9 New Komatsu system doubles continues winning run with © Komatsu Australia Pty Ltd dozer undercarriage life...... 20 Bathurst and Indy victories...... 27 Performance and reliabilty key for Penrice...... 10 Latest MR-3 mini Komatsu releases new range offer unique advantages to of merchandise - Darwin contractor receives operators...... 21 “The Collection”...... 28 personalised service...... 11 Komatsu becomes champion Down to Earth customer Your daily newsprint: brought business sponsor for Beacon survey results...... 28 to you by Komatsu and Norske school in Brisbane...... 22 Skog...... 12 Scott Berry, National Biennial Construction Materials Undercarriage Manager...... 29 Service helps Earthtrack get Industry Conference Sydney “on track’...... 13 success...... 22 Robin Barkley, NZ National Parts Manager...... 29 PC200-8 upgrade pays off for Komatsu introduces Auckland owner-operator....14 “Customer First” program....23 Regulars Front Cover Komatsu Kids Corner...... 30 MR-3 Mini Series – release on page 21.

PO Box 943, North Ryde, NSW BC 1670, AUSTRALIA. Ph (02) 9795 8222 (Int +612 9795 8222), Fax (02) 9795 8244 (Int +612 9795 8244), Email [email protected], www.komatsu.com.au, www.komatsu.co.nz

Down to Earth Magazine is a Komatsu Australia Pty Ltd publication DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 3 CUSTOMER NEWS

TRACK RENTALS GROW PLANT HIRE BUSINESS RAPIDLY WITH KOMATSU’S HELP

Track Rentals, one of Australia’s company includes water carts, 7 the smaller companies right up to the “They were always the best product newest and fastest-growing tonne and 9 tonne site dump trucks, major contractors,” said Ron. and the service and support that specialist plant hirers has built compaction equipment and Komatsu provides has been brilliant. “I built up a substantial client base up a substantial fleet of Komatsu loaders. over the last nine years and since I “Fuel efficiency has been excellent equipment since it began Although starting off in NSW, have established Track Rentals, they on all the machines; I have no operating in early May this year. Ron has already expanded Track have come across over the past six or complaints at all. And despite the “doom and gloom” Rentals operations into south-east seven months. “With the new Tier 3 engines and in some sections of the economy, Queensland – and intends to have “There is still plenty of work around emission control systems, it’s been owner and Managing Director Ron the company operating nationally for us. My main problem is that fantastic, it has just been great,” Arnold says he is unable to meet within five years. unfortunately, I haven’t had a he said. demand for his services. “I plan in five years time to have machine available for the last couple “Since we’ve started the business, Ron, who has had nine years a depot in each state and satellite of months,” he said. the Komatsu guys have been brilliant; experience in the plant hire business, operations throughout each state,” “I think there is a lot of infrastructure the sales and aftermarket experience started Track Rentals in May of this he said. work coming up, on top of the and the parts and availability have year with 12 Komatsu excavators, Ron has built his company up through demand from the client base I have been second to none. ranging from 5 tonnes to 65 tonnes, the loyal contacts and relationships built over the last nine years. plus an SK714-5 skidsteer. “In particular I deal with Matt Watton he gained over the past nine years, “We’re also looking at getting into – who despite being a terrible golfer! Since then, he has added five and what he saw as demand in the the mining business, so we are – is fantastic to deal with,” Ron said. Komatsu HM300-2 articulated dump construction and mining sectors for a looking at bigger equipment,” he trucks and three D155AX-6 dozers, hire company offering the latest high “When I started Track Rentals, he said. “We’d be looking at 120-130 which – along with a number of quality equipment combined with helped us out; he’s done everything tonne excavators and larger dump the excavators – are working for personal service. he could to help us out. trucks.” Leighton Contractors on the Ballina The company offers both wet and “We are now talking with Komatsu Bypass Alliance Pacific Highway Ron said that in setting up Track dry hire to contractors, government Australia about a comprehensive Upgrade project in northern NSW. Rentals, he always intended to base departments, councils, mines and maintenance contract that will cover his fleet around Komatsu equipment. Other equipment available from the other clients. “Our clients range from our whole fleet.” “...all Track Rentals equipment is fitted with Komatsu’s Komtrax remote monitoring system... We find this system very useful.”

Aside from some of the company’s working the hours they should be. change – but with the Komatsu fleet, smaller pieces of equipment, all all my customers and operators have “And for us, it is good to be able to Track Rentals equipment is fitted been very happy with them. keep an eye on the hours of each with Komatsu’s Komtrax remote machine, where each machine is “In fact, there have actually been monitoring system (smaller Komatsu located and whether it’s been moved a few customers of mine who machines were not available with since the last inspection. have approached Komatsu to buy Komtrax at the time of purchase machines after sitting on Komatsu – although the latest series utility “It also allows us to check on when products from Track Rentals. machines now are). services are due and book them in.” “These are very exciting times, and “All our machines from 13 tonnes Ron said that since establishing I’m looking forward to next year, and above are set up with Komtrax. Track Rentals, as a Komatsu-based with all the work we have coming We find this system very useful with rental fleet, customer acceptance of up,” said Ron. our customer base,” said Ron. his equipment had been very strong. Anyone looking to hire modern, high- “Often on the dry hire side of things, “Obviously there are a lot of guys out quality earthmoving and construction customers like to know if the machine there who have a manufacturer who equipment can contact Ron at Track has been used, how long it has been they are happy with and they’ve got Rentals on 0404 154 444. used for, and that their operators are it in their blood and they just won’t

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 5 CUSTOMER NEWS TRUST, SERVICE AND RELIABILITY KEEP VASSALLO COMING BACK

Vassallo in “Being an owner operator and going “The performance of those two Mackay is a family-owned and on and off the farm didn’t last for long new machines is exactly what you’d operated company that has kept because we quickly started getting expect from any piece of Komatsu purchasing Komatsu due to the more and more outside work. gear,” Victor said. reliability and durability of the “Soon after the company started we “If you buy a new piece of Komatsu equipment, its fair dealings, and had 10-15 people working for us, and gear, you expect it to perform and it the quality and pricing of its today we employ around 100. always meets your expectations.” latest equipment. “We operate a substantial fleet of He said there were a number of Owned and operated by four equipment, including six Komatsu reasons behind Vassallo Constructions’ brothers, Victor, Joe, Peter and excavators from 7 to 100 tonnes decision to purchase Komatsu. Michael Vassallo, the company (with the latest being two PC270-8s started in 1995 when they decided “To start with, if you go for the delivered earlier this year),” said to diversify out of the sugar cane Komatsu , then you know you Victor. farming the family had been engaged are going to get reliability. Plus you in for years. Other equipment includes two are getting performance and all of Komatsu WS23 scrapers – “we’ve those sorts of things. The Vassallo brothers started off had them for a long time, they are developing some land on the fringes “The price also had a part to play in old machines, not many people know of Mackay, using their expertise this deal, as the Komatsu machines about Komatsu scrapers” – a D155 in earthmoving from their farming were very competitively priced. and D375 dozer plus three WA480 background, said Victor. loaders and a WA470 used in “We deal with Rod Featherstone Since then they have diversified into its new quarry operation. and Graham Moohin at the Mackay civil construction, land development branch, and they are wonderful The second machine ever purchased and most recently quarrying, all people to deal with.” by the company was a Komatsu around the Mackay district. PC300-5, was bought in 1996, second The company’s last two excavators Currently Vassallo Constructions’ hand with 6000 hours already on were bought through Komatsu projects include all types of civil it. This machine is still part of the Australia Corporate Finance, which construction infrastructure works continually expanding fleet today. worked out very well according to ranging from Queensland Main Roads Victor. “You can’t kill that bloody excavator,” Projects, such as the $13 million said Victor. “That is by far the best “Basically our accountant did the project duplicating the Mackay- machine I’ve ever had as far as deal, and there were no problems Bucasia Road, through to other reliability goes. at all. You know when you have works including council infrastructure problems with finance people and works such as road works, sewage “We still use it like any other kind of there were just no problems.” treatment plant upgrades, pipelines, machine, whether it be in a quarry bridges, parks and footpaths. or digging trenches, laying pipe, And, as far as service goes, Victor whatever. believes Komatsu “comes to the Other projects also include residential party every time”. and commercial subdivisions, bulk “It has been a fantastic machine earthworks such as dams and bulk and everyone who has owned those “We remember dealing with fill projects, mining infrastructure machines says the same. Eventually companies that want to give us and the like. it will wear out, but right now it just service and look after us,” said keeps on going.” Victor. “I started the business myself, basically as an owner-operator The company’s two latest machines while my brothers stayed on the are its two PC270-8s, delivered farm and did that side of it, but we earlier this year, and used for general always remained partners or equal civil works, roadworks, pipelaying shareholders in the company,” said and subdivisional type works. Victor. Vassallo Constructions in “Being an owner operator and going “The performance of those two Mackay is a family-owned and on and off the farm didn’t last for long new machines is exactly what you’d operated company that has kept because we quickly started getting expect from any piece of Komatsu purchasing Komatsu due to the more and more outside work. gear,” Victor said. reliability and durability of the “Soon after the company started we “If you buy a new piece of Komatsu equipment, its fair dealings, and had 10-15 people working for us, and gear, you expect it to perform and it the quality and pricing of its today we employ around 100. always meets your expectations.” latest equipment. “We operate a substantial fleet of He said there were a number of Owned and operated by four equipment, including six Komatsu reasons behind Vassallo Constructions’ brothers, Victor, Joe, Peter and excavators from 7 to 100 tonnes decision to purchase Komatsu. Michael Vassallo, the company (with the latest being two PC270-8s Pictured Front: Victor Vassallo of Vassallo started in 1995 when they decided “To start with, if you go for the Constructions with North Queensland delivered earlier this year),” said to diversify out of the sugar cane Komatsu brand, then you know you Sales Manager Graham Moohin. Victor. farming the family had been engaged are going to get reliability. Plus you in for years. Other equipment includes two are getting performance and all of Komatsu WS23 scrapers – “we’ve those sorts of things. The Vassallo brothers started off had them for a long time, they are developing some land on the fringes “The price also had a part to play in old machines, not many people know of Mackay, using their expertise this deal, as the Komatsu machines about Komatsu scrapers” – a D155 in earthmoving from their farming were very competitively priced. and D375 dozer plus three WA480 background, said Victor. loaders and a WA470 loader used in “We deal with Rod Featherstone Since then they have diversified into its new quarry operation. and Graham Moohin at the Mackay civil construction, land development branch, and they are wonderful The second machine ever purchased and most recently quarrying, all people to deal with.” by the company was a Komatsu around the Mackay district. PC300-5, was bought in 1996, second The company’s last two excavators Currently Vassallo Constructions’ hand with 6000 hours already on were bought through Komatsu projects include all types of civil it. This machine is still part of the Australia Corporate Finance, which construction infrastructure works continually expanding fleet today. worked out very well according to ranging from Queensland Main Roads Victor. “You can’t kill that bloody excavator,” Projects, such as the $13 million said Victor. “That is by far the best “Basically our accountant did the project duplicating the Mackay- machine I’ve ever had as far as deal, and there were no problems Bucasia Road, through to other reliability goes. at all. You know when you have works including council infrastructure problems with finance people and works such as road works, sewage “We still use it like any other kind of there were just no problems.” treatment plant upgrades, pipelines, machine, whether it be in a quarry bridges, car parks and footpaths. or digging trenches, laying pipe, And, as far as service goes, Victor whatever. believes Komatsu “comes to the Other projects also include residential party every time”. and commercial subdivisions, bulk “It has been a fantastic machine earthworks such as dams and bulk and everyone who has owned those “We remember dealing with fill projects, mining infrastructure machines says the same. Eventually companies that want to give us and the like. it will wear out, but right now it just service and look after us,” said keeps on going.” Victor. “I started the business myself, basically as an owner-operator The company’s two latest machines while my brothers stayed on the are its two PC270-8s, delivered farm and did that side of it, but we earlier this year, and used for general always remained partners or equal civil works, roadworks, pipelaying shareholders in the company,” said and subdivisional type works. Victor. “...if you go for the Komatsu brand, then you know you are going to get reliability.”

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 7 CUSTOMER NEWS NEW WA PLANT HIRE FIRM STARTS UP WITH KOMATSU

Publicly listed WA based Global of Komatsu Utility Central, Komatsu and compaction equipment. of Western Australia under long or Construction Services Ltd, Australia’s centralised equipment short term contracts and Komatsu’s Since taking delivery of the new which has recently launched a pre-delivery operation for all utility regional support is very important to Komatsu products, GCS Hire’s specialist plant hire operation, equipment sold in Australia. us as it helps us manage and support Account Manager, Jamie Stamp GCS Hire, has chosen Komatsu our regional customers. GCS Group is a diversified has been very impressed with their utility equipment to form the construction services company performance. “Komatsu products sell on their merits basis of its initial earthmoving that provides a range of products rather than on the shortcomings of equipment fleet. “The Komatsu skidsteers are and services to the residential, other brand products available in comparable with other products in commercial and industrial sectors the market place and I found this regard to power; however, they stand of the construction and maintenance refreshing. out above the rest as they are quieter industries, including scaffolding, and offer a better cab environment,” “Our local Komatsu representative, formwork, material hoists, temporary he said. Kye Keenan was very helpful all site accommodation, chemical the way through the process from toilets, temporary fencing and plant “They are also much more comfortable enquiry to delivery and training,” hire, together with related labour machines to use.” said Jamie. services. Jamie said key reasons for going Pictured Left to Right: Kye The new GCS Hire division operates with Komatsu included the after- GCS Hire recently purchased two Keenan, Komatsu Perth Business across the Perth metropolitan area, sales support and the extensive Komatsu PC14MR-2 mini excavators Development Manager Construction, and can supply equipment to remote network throughout Western Jamie Stamp GCS Account Manager, and two Komatsu SK714-5 skidsteers, or regional areas. In addition to the Australia provided by Komatsu. Phil Funga, GCS General Manager painted in the company’s distinctive new Komatsu equipment, GCS Hire and Glenn Swift WA Sales Manager red corporate colours. “GCS Hire offers its equipment Construction, at the handover of the carries a range of generators, lighting across the metropolitan area as two SK714-5 Skidsteer Loaders. Additionally, one of the SK714s was towers, stand-on mini skidsteers, well as to remote or regional areas the 1000th machine to come out access equipment, air compressors

8 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 SAM HAZLETT: 26 YEARS WITH KOMATSU

Sam Hazlett, of Otago based D S The most recent machine is the business, we used draglines, then “We like the wheeled machines as Hazlett & Son Ltd – a company PC30MR-2, largely used for town- we moved to Hymacs, then , they are ideal for farm works; they he started with his father in 1952 based work in plumbing-type before migrating to the wheeled do all that we need of them, and – purchased his first Komatsu applications around homes. Komatsu diggers,” he said. because the climate is so dry here excavator in 1982, and hasn’t they can go anywhere,” said Sam. Another recent purchase is the short- “We were only the second Komatsu bought any other brand since. tail PC138US-8, which Sam finds owner in Otago, and we’ve been “We’ve been pleased with the “I’ve always been very pleased with ideal for use in farm works. buying them ever since,” he said. support from Komatsu. We do most their performance – and I wouldn’t “We’ve never bought any other make of our own service and maintenance, “It’s very good in farm works; it’s keep buying them if I wasn’t,” he said. of excavator – and why would we? unless anything major is required compact, it goes anywhere and we – but we don’t have much need for Sam works in a 50 km radius can get it into very tight spaces,” major repairs. around his home town of Ranfurly, he said. “We’ve never providing a full range of services “Komatsu also has some very good Attachments for the Komatsu for local farmers, including general bought any sales reps that we deal with. Greg machines include a large range excavations, water race cleaning, Stewart is our current rep, but we’ve of different-sized buckets, augers, other make of installing water lines, dry fence posts also dealt with Phil Thomson over compaction plates and root rakes. and similar works. excavator – the past 23 years.” In addition, he has a fleet of three He owns a fleet of six Komatsu and why trucks for hauling equipment and excavators: a PC130-8, PC138US-8, carrying out cartage work. PC30MR-2 and three wheeled would we?” excavators, a PW100-3 purchased Sam’s involvement with Komatsu “Following that first machine, we used two years ago, a PW110R-1 goes back to 1982, when he bought a PC120-1, and we’ve owned purchased used four years ago, and a purchased a PW60-1 wheeled 24 Komatsu machines since then – 24-year-old PW150-1 that “still goes excavator. mainly PC120s and PC150s, but also as well as when we first bought it”, four or five PW100s. “When we first started in this he said.

Pictured Above: Sam Hazlett working on his farm in Otago.

Pictured: The PC138US-8 excavator is ideal for Hazlett’s farm works – being compact, “it goes anywhere and can get into very tight spaces.”

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 9 CUSTOMER NEWS PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY KEY FOR PENRICE

In 2006, D2E reported on how Adelaide with the limestone required Production loading and overburden “This arrangement has enabled us to Penrice Soda Holdings Ltd, for the production of black soda ash, removal is by the WA900-3/HD785-5 upgrade our fleet efficiently, plus it Australia’s only manufacturer and the quarry still provides 500,000 combinations, with the D155AX-5 allows us to gauge very accurately of soda ash, had entered into tonnes of high grade limestone per dozer used for overburden mound what our equipment running costs a “power-by-the-hour” contract year to that plant. construction, maintenance and will be over a sustained period. with Komatsu Australia for the remediation, and the GD655A-3 It has also moved into supplying the “We went for Komatsu because it supply of a complete fleet of carrying out haul road civil construction sector, providing offered the best options in moving dump trucks, wheel loaders maintenance and construction. aggregates to concrete batching plants forward at the time, plus it’s been a and excavators, plus a dozer, and roadbase material to developers, The two PC1250-7 excavators are proven product on-site,” he said. water trucks and grader, for councils, contractors and the like. also used for overburden removal, its Angaston limestone quarry “Since taking delivery of this new production loading and rehabilitation in South Australia’s Barossa The Angaston quarry is the largest fleet, we’ve been very pleased with work, with the other equipment Valley. Two years after the quarry marble and limestone quarry in South the performance of the Komatsu used around the quarry for general made the decision to go with Australia. equipment,” said Chris. stockpile, loading, handling and Komatsu, we caught up with Komatsu equipment in operation at maintenance works. “The backup has also been very good. Chris Andrews, Mine Production Penrice supplied both under a power- We’ve had some minor problems Manager at Angaston on how the According to Chris, the quarry has by-the-hour arrangement through which we have worked through with application and performance of used Komatsu equipment for the Komatsu Australia Corporate Finance Komatsu and resolved quickly. the Komatsu machines. past 10 years, and the performance (KACF) and rented in as required, and reliability of the product was a “We work pretty well with the Penrice’s Angaston quarry, which was includes two PC1250-7 excavators, key factor in the decision to go for an Komatsu people, we’ve got a good set up in 1950 not only supplies the two PC450LC-8 excavators, two all-Komatsu fleet under its power-by- relationship with them and they company’s soda ash manufacturing WA900-3 loaders, four WA700-3 the-hour contract. support us to the best of their ability plant in Adelaide, but also supplies loaders, three WA600-3 loaders, six at all times. lime products for civil construction WA480-6 loaders, seven HD785-5 “We’ve had good experiences with applications such as road construction dump trucks, three HD465-5 dump Komatsu products over a number of “We are finding fuel consumption is and cement manufacturing, and high- trucks with 60 tonne bodies, two years,” he said. quite reasonable. Obviously, fuel is grade chemical sand for the glass- HD325-7 water trucks, a D155A-5 a major expense for us and anything “Komatsu came up with the best manufacturing industry. dozer, a GD655A-3 grader, an SK714-5 we can do there obviously helps.” package in terms of price, the levels skidsteer, and an HM400-2 and Soda ash is a vital ingredient in of service it could offer and the whole- Chris said there had been a good HM300-2 articulated . manufacturing products ranging of-life costs of the equipment. response from the quarry’s operators to from glass containers (especially Its most recent piece of equipment is the Komatsu equipment used on-site. “This power-by-the-hour arrangement wine bottles) to washing powder, one of the PC450LC-8 excavators to through Komatsu Australia Corporate “We’ve no adverse comments or and sodium bicarbonate, used in feed one of its crushing plants. Finance, gives us terms from 12,000 responses to it. The machines are all applications as diverse as animal The majority of the material hours up to 18,000 hours. modern and up-to-date, the cabins are feed, food and pharmaceuticals. excavated at Angaston is drilled ergonomically designed, and there are “It’s based on equipment hours, and The quarry was originally established and blasted, with a small amount no issues with comfort,” he said. we pay for what we use during that to supply Penrice’s Osborne factory in extracted through free-digging. period,” said Chris.

10 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 DARWIN CONTRACTOR RECEIVES KOMATSU PERSONALISED SERVICE

Northern Territory’s Mousellis was given the opportunity to get and grew more opportunities The Komatsu fleet consists of six and sons, a family owned my apprenticeship in plumbing and became available in sub-divisional excavators: PC15MRX-1, PC138US-8, business established in 1975 by drainage soon after commencing work, consultancy for drainage and two PC300-7s, PC55MR-3, Themilis Mousellis, has a fleet work,” stated John. civil work and major government PC30MR-2, WA250-3 and WA250-5 of Komatsu machines working in contracts. wheel loaders and SK818-5 skidsteer “Once I had the experience and my Town Water work, sub-divisional loader. trade, I was promoted to estimator “During the past eight years Darwin work, civil and drainage work in and now with Bill – who joined the has seen phenomenal growth and John went on to state that compared the Darwin region. business in 1996 - we coordinate and now with the abundant gas and oil to other on the market the Themillis is now semi – retired and manage the business, with an ever resources available in the Territory Komatsu excavators are the most his sons John and Vasilois (known as watchful eye of our father. there will be more requirements technologically advanced. Bill) are now managing and growing for infrastructure and housing The company started out specialising “Basically, the Komatsu excavator the business. development,” said John. in drainage work in the Darwin range is ahead of the rest! “I started working 22 years ago metropolitan area, however as “This means we need equipment “The reason we keeping going for my father as a labourer and Darwin’s infrastructure developed that is reliable and the after sales back to Komatsu machinery is the support that goes with it. performance of the excavators and “That’s why we started buying that we’re not just a number. Komatsu excavators in 1996. Our first “We’ve built a bond with the Komatsu excavator was a PC220-6 and now guys and we get personalised service we own nine Komatsu machines,” every time.” he said.

Pictured Above: Pedros Mamouzellious. “Basically, the Komatsu excavator range is ahead of the rest!”

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 11 CUSTOMER NEWS YOUR DAILY NEWSPRINT: BROUGHT TO YOU BY KOMATSU AND NORSKE SKOG

under the original ownership of tonnes a month is excess to our “While it’s a bit too early to comment Australian Newsprint Mills, and requirements and is removed by a on production and fuel consumption today manufactures approximately local garden supply business. figures, our operators are very 265,000 tonnes of newsprint annually happy with the ergonomics of the “Our bark-handling loader is used for print sites throughout Australia. machines,” said Robert. “That – to load this excess product from the along with the competitive price – Robert Rogers, Norske Skog’s ground and into trucks,” he said. were important factors in going with Procurement Manager, said that the Recycled paper used at the mill Komatsu. two Komatsu loaders replaced two comes from a number of sources, but loaders of another brand. is primarily waste from press sites Both units are fitted with joystick and curbside collections. control; the loader used for handling waste paper in its paper recycling “...operators are Delivery of the two WA380-6H to operation is fitted with a 5 cu m light Norske Skog materials bucket, while the other very happy with Norwegian based newsprint and – used for bark handling – is fitted the ergonomics of with a conventional-sized 3 cu m magazine paper manufacturer “Since taking delivery of these bucket. Norske Skog has recently taken the machines,” loaders, we have been very happy delivery of two Komatsu WA380- Bark comes from Norske Skog’s “Recycled paper is used in the with the support we’ve received.” 6H wheel loaders for handling woodmill, with all logs debarked manufacture of newsprint, blending The two machines were purchased waste paper and loading bark in at the Albury mill before Chipping, recycled fibre with virgin chips at a through Komatsu Australia Corporate its Albury paper mill. and the chips then used to make ratio of approximately 30% recycled Finance. Norske Skog is the world’s largest newsprint. to 70% virgin chips,” Robert said. “We found the KACF people very producer of newsprint and magazine “The majority of the bark is used as Norske Skog Albury handles about professional to deal with during the paper, with 18 mills worldwide. Its a supplementary fuel in our boiler,” 170,000 tonnes a year of recycled purchasing process,” Robert said. Albury mill was opened in 1981 said Robert. “However about 1000 fibre.

Pictured Above: WA380-6H wheel loader is used for bark handling, fitted with conventional sized 3cu m bucket. 12 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 Right Inset: WA380-6H is the second wheel loader used for handling waste paper in the paper reycling operations. SERVICE HELPS EARTHTRACK GET “ON TRACK’

Earthtrack Solutions received manner and with minimal disruption damage to the rail and avoid shorting worked out you can get over 3000 outstanding service from to the live rail network. out the train signals. hours from a set compared with Komatsu Australia’s Victorian approximately 1200 hours from the In addition to the rail project, Jim and Fi said they were very branch at Campbellfield, when regular bolt-on rubber pads. Earthtrack Solutions carries out a full impressed with Komatsu Australia’s it required the urgent delivery range of civil construction and plant ability to deliver the rail modified “And if required, these machines are of hydraulically modified hire works, covering the Melbourne excavators in a timely manner in able to go straight into work on a PC138US-8 excavators in order Metropolitan area and regional order to fill the requirements of the civil site with the ability to work on to start on a major rail project. Victoria. rail project. any surface with no risk of damage The company recently purchased a to asphalt or concrete surfaces.” Earthtrack Solutions was formed in “We had very short notice that the fleet of three Komatsu PC138US-8 2007 by Jim Vella and Fi Ritchie machines would be required; from Jim and Fi have also been very zero swing excavators, with specially to provide specialist equipment then on everyone at the Komatsu pleased with the backup they have modified hydraulics, and factory-fitted and services specific to customers’ branch at Campbellfield really received from Komatsu. genuine Komatsu rubber tracks for requirements, covering rail pulled together and made it happen; use on a national rail upgrade project “That’s just not something you can construction and maintenance, civil against all odds, they did a fantastic between Melbourne and Sydney. rely on with other manufactures. The construction and plant hire. job to ensure we had the machines backup service was amazing and the Earthtrack Solutions is a delivered a lot quicker than we The company’s fleet currently people who ‘really matter’ from John subcontractor to John Holland normally would have, “ she said. consists of three Komatsu PC138US-8 Holland saw that and were very Rail on the Southern Improvement excavators, a PC78UU zero swing “The Komatsu excavators are far impressed by it.” Alliance (SIA), a joint venture excavator, an SK820-5SF skidsteer, superior to the other brands for this between the Australian Rail Track Jim and Fi have also opted to use as well as additional 13 tonne to type of work,” said Jim. Corporation (ARTC) and its partners, Komatsu Australia Corporate Finance 20 tonne excavators, tandem tippers John Holland Rail, MVM Rail and “Firstly, their fuel efficiency is second when purchasing new equipment. and compaction equipment. O’Donnell Griffin. to none against the other brands – at “We have only used Komatsu Australia All excavators have been fitted least 15% improvement” SIA is carrying out a major upgrade of Corporate finance when financing with tilting quick hitches and a the Melbourne to Sydney Rail corridor “Secondly, the foremen and site new machines and it has never been modified hydraulic system, to to improve the competitiveness and supervisors much prefer the Komatsu a drama. enable the operation of the Platypus market share of rail transport in the rubber track system over the regular attachments, making the machines “In every case we got an answer freight haul and distribution industry. bolt-on rubber pads used on the extremely versatile and suitable within 24 hours and, as Fi said, other machines,” said Jim. This project has seen the introduction for almost any application. they were prompt and efficient at of the “side insertion” process, which “The Komatsu rubber tracks getting all the paperwork through to The PC138US-8s currently on enables replacement of the old red are a lot stronger and enable the work to proceed on the the SIA project are fitted with gum sleepers with new concrete better designed for work machines” said Jim. genuine Komatsu rubber tracks, sleepers in a more cost-effective on the rail; we have which are required to minimise

In addition to the rubber tracks, the excavators have also had hydraulic modifications to take Engcon rotating hitches, giving the ability to tilt and rotate 360°, to increase the ease of the side insertion process.

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 13 CUSTOMER NEWS

PC200-8 UPGRADE PAYS OFF FOR AUCKLAND OWNER-OPERATOR

Owner-operator Keith Hand in Assured low-hour PC200-7 imported going through the roof,” he said. final site preparation for slabs and Auckland recently upgraded by Komatsu NZ from Japan, and driveways, as well as small drainage He brought across all his old to a used low-hour Komatsu given a complete check, respray and and services excavation. attachments, plus was able to fit PC200-8 excavator – and is full 12 month warranty. the new machine with a PC220- This machine is fitted with a quick finding it gives him significant This machine was fitted with a quick sized bucket. – “its certainly got the hitch, tilt bucket, 300 and 400 mm fuel savings and productivity hitch, digging buckets, sorting rake power to be able to handle this larger buckets and a rock bucket. advantages compared with his and rock breaker. bucket.” previous PC200-7 machine. A key reason for sticking with “It was a really good machine, never “This machine is definitely more Komatsu has been the support he’s Hand’s company, KH Civil, specialises gave me any problems at all,” said comfortable; it certainly feels like received from Komatsu NZ. in commercial and factory site Hand. it has more power, and it’s much preparation, on both demolition and “The support has been excellent. better balanced, with a better seat greenfields sites, throughout the “However, I was really interested in If I need any advice or have any and improved controls – they are Auckland region. the new Komatsu Dash 8 range, and questions about the operation of really smooth – so it’s much better to about three months ago I had the these machines, they always get He carries out the full range of operate,” Hand said. opportunity to buy a used PC200-8, back to me the same day,” said site preparation works, from which the previous owner had “Particularly in the Eco mode, I find Hand. breaking concrete, removing trees decided he needed to upgrade to a I’m getting a lot more digging done and vegetation and sorting waste “I get Komatsu to do all the servicing, PC220. to the tankful. materials, through to drainage and to ensure the machines perform at services excavation and final trim “It still had factory warranty, plus “I also really appreciate things like their best, and they do a terrific job. ready for slab pours. it was lower hour so offered better the nudge bars all around and the “They always leave the machines resale values, and it has substantially stone guard at the front.” An operator for other contractors for clean and tidy, just the way they lower fuel consumption – something many years, Hand started KH Civil At around the same time he bought found them,” he said. which is very important to me in in early 2007, when he purchased the PC200-8, Hand also bought a these times when fuel prices are his first machine, a Komatsu Quality PC45-8, which he uses for cleanup,

14 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 PC200-8 and PC45-8 give KH Civil significant fuel savings and productivity. TASSIE SUPPORT WINNER FOR LLOYDS NORTH

Tasmanian-based transport and “We find that Komatsu has a very have previously operated Komatsu the working life of the equipment. industrial services group Lloyds good range of wheel loaders and equipment and they are very happy “Another terrific tool is the fuel North has made significant excavators – and we’ve been buying with the machines levels of comfort consumption monitoring, where we investments in Komatsu loaders quite a lot of equipment from and performance,” he said. can see how each machine is going and dozers as a result of the strong Komatsu in recent times to support Philip said the new Dash 6 loaders in terms of fuel consumption. levels of service and support it three large contracts – which are and dozers were fitted with Komatsu’s gets from the company. Australian Bulk Minerals, Forest “We also appreciate the remote Komtrax remote monitoring system, Enterprises and Smart Fibre” maintenance that the technicians The company began as a transport which worked very well for the from Komatsu are doing – where they company in the north of Tasmania in The company’s latest purchases company. can dial in and see exactly what is 1977 with just nine vehicles in 1977. include one new WA500-6 loader, “We have a keen interest in the going on and diagnose any problems; two new WA470-6 loaders with Today it has grown into an organisation Komtrax system; it’s given us some it saves a lot of downtime,” said log forks, a used WA470-5 with log which employs around 200 people, and very good reporting and it helps to Philip. forks, a new D155AX-6 dozer with has invested heavily in technology, see how are machines are working purpose-built “chip basket” and a Philip said another key element in with modern fleets in the areas of in different environments. low-hour used D155AX-6, also with opting for Komatsu was the local bulk handling, , industrial a chip basket. “One of our toughest challenges is Komatsu Australia management services, as well as operating quarries, with the dozers that are working 24 team. warehouses and distribution networks The chip baskets are used on the hours non-stop doing ship loading; around the state. dozers for stockpile handling and “They tend to be proactive with the machines can run quite warm and ship loading; according to Lloyds their major clients such as ourselves Lloyds North is part of the Byron so they need a fair degree of care as North Operations Manager John by having quarterly performance Bonney Group, based in Devonport; the radiators have to be cleaned and Austin, the chips weigh only about meetings. the other key element of the kept free of the woodchip. 300 kg to the cubic metre. business is Caltas Pty Ltd, the Caltex “We review things like Komtrax “This can help us with operator distributor for northern Tasmania. “Consequently you need to increase reports and overall condition reports training, where if someone runs the the quantity to be able to push a on the equipment. They also put ideas According to Philip Molineux, Chief machine hotter than everyone else, substantial amount at any given time. to us such as equipment inspections Executive of both Lloyds North then we focus a little bit more on They are probably pushing 20 tonnes and evaluations to assist us to get and Caltas, Lloyds North’s fleet, that operator and see what he is at any one time, and we are loading the best out of our gear. in addition to trucks and on-road doing and demonstrate to him by around 45,000 tonnes in about 70 haulage equipment, includes showing reports that the machine “That’s big reason we like dealing hours using these machines,” he significant numbers of wheel has been getting hot,” he said. with Komatsu equipment: because said. loaders, excavators and dozers for of the people and the support we get “That’s going to help us considerably bulk handling and other activities. “Predominantly the operators that here in Tassie,” he said. with extending the engine life and we employed with these contracts

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 15 andinformative external publication that is aimed at reporting customer news, product information as well as industry KomatsuAustralia celebratingis Earth50thduringDowntheissueandtooflastthirteenthe yearsthismagazine has to beexportedfromKomatsuJapan. NS KomatsudeliversfirstmobileCrusher(BR350JG) ISSUE 12 1995 First “KidsCorner”published. ISSUE 24 Launch of KALSAFEprogram. ISSUE 42 as wellthestrongandprogressivespiritofKomatsu. “Down toEarth”magazinenamelaunched.“...itsuggeststheimportanceofearthmovingindustry... ISSUE 2 DOWN TOEARTHDIGS UP50ISSUES unemployment programs. Pro Hart’s biggestcanvas–aPC200-7Excavator, whichraised$90,000foryouth ISSUE 26

Bill PikeisappointedManagingDirector. ISSUE 35

2004 Down toEarthisreleasedcustomers. ISSUE 16

New Zealand. KOMTRAX releasedinAustralia and ISSUE 45 highlights, notonlytoKomatsuemployeesbutourcustomersinAustralia,NewZealandand Caledonia. seen considerable change. From its early beginnings as an internal communication called “The Gazette” to a high quality ISSUE 8 ISSUE 11 NS Komatsu reaches five years as distributor of Komatsu Ian Olivieri appointed products to Eastern Australia. Managing Director.

ISSUE 16 ISSUE 21 Down to Earth is released to customers. Take Five initiative launched – maximising safety awareness and performance. DOWN TO EARTH DIGS UP 50 ISSUES2000 Komatsu Australia is celebrating the 50th issue of Down to Earth and during the last thirteen years this magazine has seen considerable change. From its early beginnings as an internal communication called “The Gazette” to a high quality and informative external publication that is aimed at reporting customer news, product information as well as industry highlights, not only to Komatsu employees but to our customers in Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia.

ISSUE 26 ISSUE 28 ISSUE 31 Pro Hart’s biggest canvas – a PC200-7 Excavator, which raised $90,000 for youth BR550JG-1 Crusher , PC1250SP-7 Excavator and D375A-5 Dozer released. WA250-5, WA250PT-5 and HM400-1 Articulated Dump unemployment programs. Truck released.

ISSUE 38 ISSUE 40 Komatsu ecot 3 (ecology and economy technology) Dash 8 Excavator series launched. engine released.

ISSUE 48 PC200 Hybrid Excavator ISSUE 50 released in Japan. MR-3 series launched. 2008 CUSTOMER NEWS

Mineral Hill Mine near Condobolin, influencing our decision to go with KOWA SUCCESS AT PYBAR NSW, with one loader, one truck, Komatsu Australia,” he said. one jumbo and 30 employees on PYBAR started with KOWA in May an underground development & 2008. NSW based mining and civil The company, which currently carries production contract. “Our previous oil sample records from contractor Pybar Mining Services out primarily underground mining Soon after, it obtained contracts in other suppliers were downloaded into has recently opted to use Komatsu contract work – but is looking to North Parkes Mines and Cadia Valley Komatsu’s ECAM machine records so Australia’s KOWA oil sampling expand its surface mining and civil Operations carrying out underground we could immediately take advantage service for more than 200 items construction activities – began in mining and construction work. of . 1995 with it’s first mining contract at of the trend analysis,” said Ray. Today, the company is based in Komatsu CMS also came to Pybar’s Orange, NSW and employs over head office facility in Orange, NSW 700 people and owns 388 pieces of to provide training in the ECAM underground & surface mining and software for Pybar’s maintenance civil equipment, including 35 haul trainer. trucks, 21 loaders, 43 drill rigs, 60 support machines such as excavators, Pybar’s trainer in turn has now trained , integrated toolcarriers, company site staff in all locations shotcrete rigs, and 14 heavy trucks on the ECAM system, giving them – along with over 200 light vehicles immediate access to reports. and miscellaneous equipment items. Pybar’s current contracts include In May 2008, Pybar decided to have underground development & all its heavy equipment oil sampling production, ground support & and analysis provided by Komatsu rehabilitation and mine services as Australia’s Condition Monitoring well as subdivisions, topsoil stripping Services (CMS), using the KOWA and wet & dry plant hire. Pybar is (Komatsu Oil Wear Analysis) system. currently working at Tritton Copper Mines - Girilambone NSW, Peak Gold According to Pybar’s Asset Manager Mine - Cobar NSW, CSA Mine - Ray Bushnell, his experience with “I was looking Cobar NSW, Cadia Valley Operations- KOWA in previous career roles in Orange NSW, North Parkes Mines for a sampling civil construction played a big part - Parkes NSW and Mount Isa Mines in the company’s recent decision to - Mount Isa Queensland. It is also system that adopt Komatsu oil sampling for all carrying out two civil projects near 220 items of heavy plant. was centralised Bungendore, NSW and topsoil nationally and “Because KOWA meets the NATA stripping at Wilpinjong Coal Mine standard, it also allows us to use near Mudgee NSW. provided an easy- it for any new equipment under Pybar Director Brendan Rouse warranty, such as our Caterpillar, to-use electronic said that although the company’s Volvo, Toro and other equipment works have been predominately reporting system” items,” he said. underground, it is now developing “I had researched other suppliers business in surface civil construction of condition monitoring services; and in open cut mining. what I was looking for in a sampling “Our portfolio of services currently process was a system that was includes; plant hire, excavation, centralised nationally and provided production and development work, an easy-to-use electronic reporting construction works and support system, so we did not need to rely services,” he said. on hard copies. “The success of this business has “The ECAM system Komatsu offers been built on our relationships with is very simple to use by our on-site our clients, including long-term personnel, even down to the way we partnering relationships along with can print labels ourselves,” said Ray. on-going and repeat contracts. “Another important element of the “Our success has come from having service Komatsu CMS provides is joint goals with our clients in areas that when an ‘extreme’ sample is of, for example, safety and production found, the KOWA lab will ring our – with both parties; sharing the site maintenance manager to advise risks and also having an interest in a problem, so we are not waiting the success of the contract,” said for a fax. Brendan. “If we have a problem we’re Pictured Left: Ray Bushnell, Asset contacted quickly; turnaround time of Manager, Right: Brendan Rouse, the sampling-to-report time is critical Director. to us and this was a key factor in

18 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE TAKES TWO DOZERS

Two of the newly released D51EX- construction works such as farm to improve fleet management, work for improved safety and operator 22 dozers have been recently dams, and contour banking and monitoring and machine location. comfort, this reduces the need for procured by Soil Conservation waterway systems on farms,” said the operator to constantly look over “This will allow SCS to know where Service (SCS), to be used in the minister. their shoulders when reversing,” said the machines are working to providing conservation earthworks in New Mr. Kelly. “The D51EX-22 dozers feature a enhanced machine security,” he said. South Wales rural areas. unique cab-forward design with the Pictured Left to Right: Paul Jones, SCS “The system allows the monitoring Minister for Lands Tony Kelly took radiators at the rear allowing the General Manager, Warwick Watkins, of the machine’s fuel use and delivery of the two dozers at the machine to have a “super-tapered” Director General Department of Lands performance in such areas as the and Soil Conservation Commissioner, Komatsu Fairfield Office prior to their front that provides all round visibility number of hours they have been Tony Kelly, Minister for Lands and shipping to Tamworth and Warialda enabling the operator to level and Sean Taylor, Komatsu General working as this helps to determine where the dozers will be used to contour in tight and confined spaces. Manager Construction, at Komatsu servicing requirements. contour waterways in the area. Fairfield branch. The D51EX-22 dozers are equipped “The dozers also have a rear camera “The new dozers will be used for with Komtrax satellite tracking system

D51 DOZER WINS INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD

In August 2008 President and CEO, According to the award citation from work in construction, site preparation, Mr Kunio Noji announced that IDEA®, The D51 EX/PX-22’s “super- home building, forestry, utility and the newly released Komatsu D51 slant nose” engine hood design quarry applications. Outfitted with EX/PX-22 dozer won the Silver represents the first time in the history Komatsu’s fuel efficient 6.69 Litre, Tier award of the International Design of dozers that the entire top of the 3 emissions certified SAA6D107E-1 Excellence Awards (IDEA®) ‘08, dozer blade is visible from the cabin at engine, these new models push with which is the premier international all times. This unique feature allows 97 kW at 2,200 RPM and range in competition honouring design the operator to see objects that are operating weight from 12.710 to excellence in products, eco- very close to the blade, dramatically 13.100 kg, depending on the version. design, interaction design, increasing safety and efficiency on Both standard (EX) and low ground packaging, strategy, research and the jobsite. This new design assures pressure (PX) models are available to concepts. an improvement in fundamental dozer offer customers weight distribution/ work parameters. flotation options to match their The D51 design was honored in the application. Commercial and Industrial category The D51EX-22 and D51PX-22 crawler for its super-slant nose engine hood. dozers are mid-sized machines for Pictured Above: Kunio Noji, President and CEO Komatsu Limited. DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 19 PRODUCT NEWS

NEW KOMATSU SYSTEM DOUBLES DOZER UNDERCARRIAGE LIFE

Komatsu has released a new parts has been a key challenge for reducing wear and giving much carry out pin-and-bush turns will dozer undercarriage system, equipment manufacturers looking to longer life. result in a massive reduction in offering up to twice the life of reduce customers’ operating costs,” undercarriage costs for Komatsu “Our newly developed rotary bushing conventional dozer undercarriage he said. dozers,” said Scott. track achieves this objective by in high-wear applications, and “On conventional tracks, the link replacing the conventional offset “Owners will no longer face the eliminating the need for costly and bushing – the main components type link with a parallel link, known expense and inconvenience of pin- and inconvenient pin-and-bush on the undercarriage – undergo as Rotary Bushing Track PLUS. and-bush turns, including parts and turns. continuous wear and tear, so that labour expenses, the associated “It is a highly reliable system which The new undercarriage system, pin-and-bush turns, followed by downtime while the machine is out has been through extensive bench known as the Rotary Bushing Track replacement, are required several of action, and the costs involved tests and application tests, based PLUS (Parallel Link Undercarriage times during the life of a dozer. in removing and transporting the on Komatsu’s advanced technology System), will be available as an track to track repair and maintenance “In addition, during operation the amassed over many years of option on Komatsu’s D65 series of facilities. external surface of the bushing experience,” he said. dozers early in 2009, and shortly slides against the sprocket, and “This innovative development from after as an option for its D51 and D61 Features of Rotary Bushing Track while under torque this creates a Komatsu will substantially reduce series machines. PLUS include: grinding process. the costs of operation and ownership According to Scott Berry, Komatsu • Crawler track life doubled of Komatsu dozers, resulting in “As a result, the bushing is usually Australia’s undercarriage Sales and compared with conventional types, significant savings and higher profits the first component to wear, which Business Development Manager, in both sand and clay applications for our customers,” he said. in turn also decides the useful life of typically expenses associated with the crawler track,” said Scott. • Greatly reduced wear in segment In addition to the Rotary Bushing undercarriage servicing, repairs and teeth, giving extended life Track PLUS on its mid-size dozers, maintenance accounts for around “However, Komatsu engineers have Komatsu has also developed a half the total costs of operating worked out that, if the bushing is able • Eliminating the need for pin and dual bushing track system for its dozers. to rotate freely, it will not slide up bush turns. D275AX-5 dozer, details of which will against the sprocket – significantly “Extending the life of the undercarriage “For owners, no longer having to be released shortly, said Scott.

20 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 LATEST MR-3 MINI EXCAVATORS OFFER UNIQUE ADVANTAGES TO OPERATORS

comfortable, productive and easy- together, providing optimum Brief specs of the new Komatsu to-maintain mini excavators on the performance, reliability and durability. MR-3 series are: market,” he said. “On the service side, Komatsu “With this new range, Komatsu has pioneered the concept of a tilt-up introduced a number of improvements operator’s compartment for easier PC18MR-3: that add substantially to serviceability, access to key components, and on the operating weight, 1780 kg; and therefore reliability and lower- MR-3 series we have developed this engine, Komatsu 3D67E rated at cost operation, productivity, and further, with improved component 11.2 kW; operator safety and comfort.” positioning, ensuring that access is bucket capacity, 0.044 cu m; even quicker and easier. Komatsu Australia has released Key features include: maximum dig depth, 2160 mm; “This is complemented by having our a complete new range of five • Higher productivity, through 10% arm breakout, 1010 kgf; Komtrax remote monitoring system mini excavators, the MR-3 range, faster hydraulics, extended dipper bucket breakout, 1620 kgf. supplied as standard on all these replacing its successful MR-2 arm working range and better machines – the first time this system range, with a host of features dozing performance PC30MR-3: designed to reduce operating has been available on Komatsu utility costs, improve production and • A new high-strength “X-track” equipment,” Carl said. operating weight, 3140 kg; frame, similar to what is used engine, Komatsu 3D88E-6 rated increase safety. “This allows us to work closely on Komatsu’s larger excavators, with machine owners – whether at 21.4 kW; Improvements and upgrades giving improved durability and fleet owners, contractors or bucket capacity, 0.09 cu m; introduced with the new MR-3 reliability maximum dig depth, 2760 mm; range include class-leading low- owner-operators – to ensure that arm breakout, 1800 kgf; emission engines – complying with • Easier serviceability through better their machines remain in optimum the forthcoming Tier 4 emissions service access, including a tilt-up operating condition at all times, with bucket breakout, 3000 kgf. standards – increased productivity, operator’s compartment, wider- early warning of any potential issues improved operator comfort and opening engine door and side or component failures. PC35MR-3: cover, side-by-side radiator and oil safety, and easier servicing and “We are able to alert owners, plant cooler for easier inspection and operating weight, 3575 kg; maintenance. managers or operators to any unusual cleaning, and extended lubrication engine, Komatsu 3D88E-6 rated occurrences, allowing them to carry In addition, all machines in the and engine oil replacement at 21.4 kW; out preventive maintenance before range are fitted with Komatsu’s intervals bucket capacity, 0.11 cu m; Komtrax remote monitoring system unscheduled downtime occurs. maximum dig depth, 3110 mm; • Improved operator safety and as standard. “And the other great advantage arm breakout, 2100 kgf; comfort, through such features as of Komtrax is that it makes these The new range consists of five having the hosing on the boom bucket breakout, 3050 kgf. machines virtually theft-proof, as we models, the PC18MR-3 (1780 kg sheathed to protect the operator are able to track the location of operating weight), PC30MR-3 (3140 from hot oil in the event of a hose PC45MR-3: all Komtrax-fitted equipment – and kg), PC35MR-3 (3575 kg), PC45MR-3 failure, as well as the largest, most prevent it being started or used if it operating weight, 4755 kg; (4755 kg) and PC55MR-3 (5160 kg). comfortable operator cab/cabins of is reported stolen,” he said. engine, Komatsu 4D88E-6 rated According to Carl Grundy, Komatsu any mini excavator range. at 28.5 kW; “For owner-operators, for whom a Australia’s national sales manager, “As with all products in our range, all bucket capacity, 0.14 cu m; single machine can be responsible utility, the MR-3 range represents a components in our MR-3 range have for their entire livelihood, we see this maximum dig depth, 3350 mm; significant advance over the previous been designed and manufactured by as being a major advantage, while arm breakout, 2200 kgf; MR-2 range. Komatsu to work together as an for plant hirers and fleet owners, bucket breakout, 3460 kgf. integrated whole,” said Carl. “Our MR-2 excavators were it can be a major weapon against recognised as being the most “This ensures they work efficiently unauthorised use or theft in poorly PC55MR-3: secured worksites.” operating weight, 5160 kg; engine, Komatsu 4D88E-6 rated at 28.5 kW; bucket capacity, 0.16 cu m; maximum dig depth, 3800 mm; arm breakout, 2440 kgf; bucket breakout, 3980 kgf.

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 21 KOMATSU NEWS KOMATSU BECOMES CHAMPION BUSINESS SPONSOR FOR BEACON SCHOOL IN BRISBANE

“Beacon already had a close July to formally present a cheque to relationship with Komatsu’s Reman the members of the Beacon Student centre, which had previously been Leadership Program at the school involved in hosting school visits assembly. He was warmly welcomed and also participated in last year’s to Loganlea and given a tour of the Beacon State Conference.” farm and mechanics areas. Bruce and Val worked out a Following this presentation, the sponsorship package, which was school held an “Industry Expo” then agreed to with the assistance of evening in conjunction with parent/ Mary Huxtable, Komatsu Australia’s teacher interviews later in July. National HR Operations Manager. Pictured Left: Jade Leishman, Beacon Foundation Coordinator, Tanya Around 40 industries, ranging from Ramprasad, Bradley Batty, and Bruce Auld, East Coast Reman Manager. “The school chosen for Komatsu to defence forces to hairdressing sponsor is Loganlea State High School, academies showcased employment Komatsu Australia has taken on Leadership program. a school of around 800 students in opportunities; the Komatsu Australia a role as a “Champion Business Komatsu agreed to take on this Brisbane’s south east,” said Bruce. stand, manned by Bruce and another Sponsor” at Loganlea State role at Loganlea after Val Young, Reman staff member, Simon Peever, High School in Brisbane, as part “This school provides a greatly varied Beacon’s Queensland State Manager, was greatly appreciated and attracted of its support for the Beacon curriculum, with both an agriculture approached Komatsu through a plenty of interest from parents and Foundation and its national No and mechanics program on offer. relationship already firmly in place students alike. Dole program. with Bruce Auld, the company’s East “With the majority of students at “Komatsu Australia is looking forward Beacon has launched its Champion Coast Reman Manager. the school headed towards trade- to further strengthening relationships Business Sponsorship initiative as based employment, this link between “Programs such as Champion with Loganlea SHS and also with the a further enhancement to assist Loganlea and Komatsu Australia is Business Sponsorships really help Beacon Foundation as part of our schools participating in its highly very good fit,” he said. bridge the gap between schools and ongoing national commitment to its successful “No Dole” program, in industry,” said Val. Bruce was invited to the school in aims and objectives,” said Bruce. association with the Beacon Student BIENNIAL CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS INDUSTRY CONFERENCE SYDNEY SUCCESS

- this system will empower plant equipment owners, managers and operators as they will be able to monitor their machines on the Web; anywhere, anytime. The result is the power to make fact-based decisions having a direct effect on your bottom line through increases in efficiency The CCAA and IQA’s Construction and productivity, while lowering Material’s Industry Conference ownership and operating costs. 2008 (CMIC 2008) put on another Komatsu Australia was a Platinum highly successful conference sponsor for this event and our which was held in Sydney from sponsorship included the Thursday October 8 to 11, 2008. night dinner – themed ‘Moulin The conference theme People Planet Rouge’ with French influenced + Profit, focused on how industry can dancers exploding in centre stage at balance its corporate responsibilities Doltone House to perform the ‘can- to shareholders, customers and the can’ and other exciting numbers. broader community, particularly in In addition the String Angels – three context of the environment. world renowned violinist’s played In line with this theme, the Komatsu the classics and enchanted the stand displayed the new KOMTRAX, audiences with their dynamic and satellite monitoring system sophisticated act.

22 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 KOMATSU INTRODUCES “CUSTOMER FIRST” PROGRAM

quickly, accurately and in a consistent approach to quotes and estimates, “Our customer survey showed that manner,” Chris said. so that we will never proceed with while we score very highly with a job before we have confirmation overall customer satisfaction across As part of its Customer First program, from a customer, and that if there is a a wide range of areas with many Komatsu Australia is adding more change in the scope of work required, customers, our customer satisfaction people in its Operations department, the customer is fully informed and levels are inconsistent and we have which covers customer support, approves that change before we room for improvement.” Chris said. service, parts, warranty and related continue,” Chris said. areas. “The Customer Support Charter is “A key element of the charter is that also recognition that, in order to This includes appointing a team of it will allow us to benchmark our improve customer satisfaction, we customer service managers, as well customer support levels, so we can firstly need to clearly define our as additional service technicians, measure what we are delivering, and Customer Support Standards. technical trainers, parts planners see where we need to improve. and customer focussed service and “Our Customer Support Charter Pictured Above: Chris Cassettari, Komatsu Australia Director support personnel. “And for our customers, it will allows us to define the standards create a ‘single face’ of Komatsu, that will enable us to maintain and Operations. “As well as this, we’re investing in so we will always deal with them deliver the highest standards of additional training for our Operations Komatsu Australia has introduced in a professional and consistent customer support,” he said. people, to ensure that they are best a “Customer First” program, with manner.” able to meet the demands of our “Ultimately, we aim to deliver levels the primary aim of ensuring the customers,” said Chris. Chris said the charter had been of service and support that exceed company is at all times able to defined by specific philosophies and our customers’ expectations.” respond more effectively to the “We’re also expanding our branch standards developed by Komatsu needs of its customers. network throughout Australia and Mark O’Brien, Komatsu Australia’s Australia, and which would apply New Zealand, including extended Service Systems Manager, is The new program, which has been to all its dealings with customers. support capabilities, and we’re responsible for rolling out the rolled out in the past couple of These were: about to establish a third Condition Customer Support Charter, and months, will improve the company’s Monitoring Service laboratory in • Speed – We want to make it implementing it throughout Australia, processes to ensure it always best Newcastle, NSW to serve the Hunter quicker for our Customers to work New Zealand and New Caledonia. meets customers’ needs, according to and NSW regions.” with Komatsu. Chris Cassettari, Komatsu Australia’s Director, Operations. As part of the Customer First program, • Simplicity – We want to make it Komatsu Australia is also introducing easier for our Customers to deal “Our Customer First program is a Customer Support Charter, under with Komatsu. designed to ensure the best- which it formally outlines just what possible processes, improving • Consistency – No matter who in customers can expect from the communications and transparency Komatsu our Customers talk to company – and measures how well in our dealings with customers and they should receive the same high it is delivering its service and support providing them with more effective, level of Customer support. offerings. more responsive and faster levels of • Reliability – We want our customer service,” he said. The Komatsu Customer Support Customers to know that they can Charter applies to all customer “What will this mean for Komatsu count on Komatsu to do what we interactions, said Chris. customers? say we will do. “The charter sets out our customer “It will mean better communications, “We have developed a common support principles, and what our so that we respond more quickly set of standards, based around customers can expect from us in terms to customers who are requesting our Customer Support Charter of support, across all processes, from quotes, prices or parts and service commitments, which give our people Pictured Above: The new Komatsu pre-sales, during the sales process, availability. a tangible and clear direction of what Australia Customer Support Charter. to once a customer has purchased is required,” said Chris. “It will mean customers are always from us and for as long as they own a kept fully informed as to the progress Komatsu machine or use a Komatsu “These standards can implemented of any servicing or repair jobs we are service,” he said. and supported through specific carrying out for them – with timely, training and then be measured “It covers elements such as accurate information as to when they through relevant key performance committing to rapid responses to will be completed, and early advice indicators and surveys of our questions and inquiries, ensuring of any variations that may impact customers.” customers are kept fully informed on delivery dates, scope of work or at all times as to the status of a price. Chris said the Customer First program, machine, a repair or delivery of a and the Customer Support Charter, “It will mean customers can have full spare part, through to follow up after had been developed following an confidence in Komatsu Australia to machine delivery or a major service. extensive survey of customer quote on a service, repair or parts/ satisfaction with Komatsu Australia’s “It also includes a ‘no surprises’ component replacement project levels of service and support.

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 23 KOMATSU NEWS

MODULAR RELEASES NEW MINE PRODUCTIVITY SYSTEMS AT MINEXPO

Modular Mining, a division of designed to address the issue of Customers using the suite have Below are two specific examples Komatsu Ltd, launched a range of safety and light vehicles on-site, by access to state-of-the-art fleet of failures that were prevented on new mine productivity systems monitoring light vehicle positions management, maintenance, safety, customer sites using the MineCare® at the international mining and providing real-time awareness and communications technology. System. exhibition MINExpo 2008, held in of changing conditions to visitors and Modular Mining can also supply Failure 1: Las Vegas in September. site personnel. MineCare® Maintenance Date: 7/3/2008 These included Modular Mining’s Modular also used MINExpo to Management System. Data: Receiving High Exhaust ShiftBoss™ mine production tracking showcase the IntelliMine® NextGen Modular customers rely on the Temperature (left & right) in Event system, the RoadMap™ position product suite, which included the MineCare® system to reduce down Handling and safety tracking system, and the DISPATCH®, MineCare®, and time, as well as maintenance and unit Knowledge: Reviewed snapshot; IntelliMine® NextGen product suite. ProVision® systems, along with new costs, through real-time equipment found both exhausts were high; mobile platforms. The ShiftBoss™ system gives health management. Remote dispatched field mechanic confirmed customers a paperless solution According to the company, condition monitoring, maintenance that there were two bolts missing to manual production tracking, a IntelliMine® NextGen addresses history, and operational data are all on the exhaust and there was a 1/2 completely automated process that aspects of mine safety, monitoring, integrated, providing maintenance inch gap on the left turbo; truck was requires no one in the control room. optimisation, analysis, and asset teams with information critical to sent to the shop for repairs health. reducing equipment failure. Result: Conservative: Prevented Modular’s RoadMap™ system is turbos from failure and contamination in after cooler Extreme: Prevented engine failure Realized Savings: $209,037 + 48 hrs of down time Failure 2: Date: 7/17/2008 Data: Receiving “Abusive Shift” Alarms in Event Handling Knowledge: Examined snapshot and diagnosed event as “Operator Induced”; discovered operator had bucked load off at dump; contacted operator and explained the cause and effect of Abusive Shift; operator had not known reason causing alarm; coached and counseled operator; logged event in Operator Induced file Result: Conservative: Recognized and proactively amended operator’s hazardous behavior Extreme: Prevented transmission failure Realized Savings: $35,598 + 24 hrs down time For further information on any Modular products please contact Carl Ross, +61 2 4352 5711 or [email protected]

24 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 LOOKING FORWARD AS WE FACE UNCERTAIN TIMES

As all readers of D2E would majority of commentators, who in 1975 and this is despite record is an important move in surviving and know, the global and Australia/ believe that this sort of “pump immigration levels of around thriving in any economic conditions,” New Zealand economies have priming” approach is appropriate for 180,000 per annum. Simply, said Sean. fallen on uncertain times in this economic climate. State governments have not done “To begin with, they are dealing with the wake of the melt-down in adequate planning, released enough Opinion remains divided as to whether a very strong company financially, financial markets in the US, land or made it easier for developers Australia will go into recession (New with enormous reserves – and which then quickly spread to the and builders to create new housing Zealand, unfortunately, is already one that is fully supported by our rest of the world. So what does estates and dwellings. – IBISWorld, there), but the consensus is that Komatsu Ltd parent. this mean for Komatsu customers November 2008 even if Australia does experience and the industries we service? “That gives us the backing and two quarters of negative growth, it Residential building [has been] weak In this special 50th edition of resources to continue supporting our will be relatively short. in 2008/09 due to low consumer D2E, we look at what the future customers throughout any downturn confidence, but will begin to may hold, and where Komatsu So what are the forecasters saying? – and they know that we will still be recover from 2009/10. By 2009/10, Australia stands in this. Some key points from recent forecasts there to support them next year, and residential building will pick up, with from Australia’s leading economic the year after that – and beyond. While at times the news appears strong growth of 7%. – Construction analysts include the following: relentlessly gloomy, it’s important Forecasting Council, November 2008 “In addition, our major commitment to realise many of the fundamentals Mining investment will hold for to our customers over the past few Perhaps Phil Ruthven of IBISWorld, in in the Australian economy are very the next few years at least as years has been to drive down their his November Insights column on the positive. we complete the current round of costs of doing business, through IBISWorld website puts it best into projects. The issue now is how much investment in industry-leading Our government and reserve bank are perspective: of the next round of projects will technology, delivering reduced fuel in the fortunate position of having proceed and this has implications We may not be economically and consumption, increased reliability, plenty of room to move, while our for investment and growth in 3 to 4 financially bullet-proof here in lower maintenance and repair costs, financial institutions remain strong. years time. – BIS Shrapnel, Economic Australia, but we are possibly the and lower whole-of-life operating For example interest rates have Outlook report, October 2008 best placed in the OECD. All of costs,” he said. been at significantly higher levels our banks are triple A rated, our [With interest rates falling] most “That commitment to reducing the than other major economies, so government has virtually no debt homeowners will still be able to costs and risks of doing business they have a way to come down – and has money in the bank, and we cover their mortgage payments and, by using Komatsu equipment has and we have already seen some have the serendipity of a mining consequently, given strong pent- delivered higher profits to our surprise reductions, with more being prices boom. Our businesses have up demand for housing, sharp falls customers during the boom times forecast. conservative and manageable debt/ in house prices are unlikely. Once we’ve enjoyed over the past 10-15 equity ratios, and less than 5% of In addition, a large surplus built the situation stabilises there is a years, and will help ensure our our households are debt-servicing up over the past decade and more significant housing upswing waiting in customers remain profitable and stressed (mortgages, more than provides opportunities to increase the wings. – BIS Shrapnel, Economic viable during any uncertainty over credit card or personal loan debts). spending on public works and Outlook report, October 2008 the next couple of years. infrastructure – many of which are Sean Taylor, Komatsu Australia’s Engineering construction activity “Our customers can be assured we substantially overdue after years of general manager, construction, points (roads, dams, railways, pipelines, will be here to stand beside them underspending on construction and out that opinion is quite mixed on the ports, etc) is expected to remain and support them throughout the maintenance. outlook, but overall the prospects resilient through the current financial economic cycle,” said Sean. for the Australian economy and the The federal government has turmoil. – BIS Shrapnel, Economic construction sector as a whole are announced its intention to increase Outlook report, October 2008 not nearly as gloomy as for some investment in infrastructure, The mining sector in Australia is set other sectors. including bringing forward some to grow by an astonishing 36.6% planned spending to offset the “Many commentators have pointed in 2008-09, reaching $182.7 billion, effects of the predicted slowdown in out that as much as anything, the hardly the sign of an industry on our economy’s growth rate. current global financial situation is the rocks. Continuing demand from as much a crisis of confidence as We saw the first of this in evidence booming Asian economies and a anything else,” he said. in mid-November, when Prime falling dollar are set to counteract Minister Kevin Rudd announced $300 any drop in commodities prices “While it would be irresponsible to million was being made available that is set to occur. Individually, try to ‘talk up’ the situation when immediately to local government to mining industries appear to be there are no grounds for doing spend on works already approved quite comfortable, investing heavily so, in Australia we are in a very and ready to go. in new mines and other capital, in strong position when it comes to the anticipation of a renewal of strong economic fundamentals. Developments such as these have growth as commodities increase the potential to impact positively on “Our customers would be well advised in value in 2010-11. – IBISWorld, contractors, plant hirers and local to take a conservative approach to October 2008 government uncertain about the their businesses in the months and Pictured Above: Sean Taylor, future and their future job prospects. Today we are building the same years ahead – but their decision to Komatsu General Manager amount of new homes that we did opt for Komatsu in the first instance They have been welcomed by the Construction

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 25 KOMATSU NEWS

HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL LOGOV EXPO SHOW IN QUEENSLAND

Komatsu Australia recently had a Logov 2008 was run in conjunction the Northern Rivers region. According to the organisers, the event highly successful presence at the with the IPWEA state conference attracted around 6000 visitors from “We had a tremendous amount of biennial Logov Expo at Meakin hosted by Logan City Council, Queensland and Northern NSW. interest in our stand, particularly the Park, Logan City, Queensland in with delegates to the conference Triple Eight V8 Supercar – which was “Local government people and early October. attending the exhibition as a part of ideal timing with the Bathurst 1000 engineers were keen to come and the program. Equipment on display included a on the same weekend. talk to us about what Komatsu are GD655-3 grader, a WA320PZ-6 Komatsu hosted the IPWEA river able to offer them.” “We ran a competition for Triple toolcarrier loader, PC138US-8, cruise and dinner on the Monday Eight race gear, jacket, hat, polo “These two events were probably PC78MR-6 and PC40MRX-2 night – a very good event with shirt, where visitors to the show the best attended that we have been excavators, a PC14HS-3 excavator positive feedback from customers had to get information on Komatsu to for some time and our efforts are on a trailer, an SK820-5 skidsteer, over next couple of days, according equipment displayed on the stand. definitely paying off,” said Phil. WB97S-5EO and WB97R-5EO to Phil Atley, Komatsu Australia’s backhoe/loaders and the Triple Eight Manager, Major Accounts and “This was won by Ashley Croonen V8 Supercar racing car. Government Sales for Queensland & from Logan City Council,” he said.

26 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 TRIPLE EIGHT SUPERCAR TEAM CONTINUES WINNING RUN WITH BATHURST AND INDY VICTORIES

The Triple Eight V8 Supercar the Indy 300 on Queensland’s TeamVodafone team – which Gold Coast. includes sponsorship by Komatsu The round win is the 10th of his career Australia – is continuing its and his fourth this season, and sees winning run with some stunning Jamie further extend his lead in the victories in the recent Bathurst closely fought drivers’ championship. 1000 and Gold Coast Indy races. This result, combined with teammate Craig and Jamie won the Bathurst Craig Lowndes’ sixth overall for the 1000 at Mount Panorama in round, also sees TeamVodafone take early October for the third year in the lead in the V8 Supercar Teams succession – only the third driver Championship. pairing in the history of the iconic In early November, the two drivers event to win three consecutive titles. dominated the Gulf Air Desert 400 They are also the only combination to in Bahrain with Jamie and Craig have claimed the Trophy recording their first ever one-two in since its inception in 2006. qualifying before going on to finish Then only two weeks later, Jamie first and second in the opening enjoyed a perfect race weekend in 32-lap V8 Supercar race. making a clean sweep of the V8 Supercars Coffee Club Challenge at

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 27 KOMATSU NEWS

KOMATSU RELEASES NEW RANGE OF MERCHANDISE – “THE COLLECTION”

Komatsu Australia is proud to corporate identity and promoting wear, urban living, Komatsu golf and release a new line of quality and new comfortable designs. accessories. stylish merchandise covering All products in “the collection” are The Komatsu merchandise items clothing, sportswear, bags of the highest quality – matching can be ordered online by visiting and accessories outlined in a the quality of Komatsu equipment Komatsu Australia website at www. new catalogue, Komatsu “the and support. komatsu.com.au and clicking on the collection”. Komatsu World tab which will lead Komatsu has included new The new Komatsu merchandise you to the ‘merchandise’ link or free exciting sections to cater for all collection features a new modern and call 1800 509 249 to directly place our customers – these include the smart look, creating a professional your order to one of the customer racing range, leisure and lifestyle appearance, updating the company’s service operators.

DOWN TO EARTH CUSTOMER SURVEY RESULTS

We had very pleasing results to issues to ensure we deliver to our Congratulations to our Down to the recent Down to Earth Survey readers an interesting and industry Earth Survey winners: and received very enthusiastic focused publication. and guided responses to the First Prize: Thank you for your feedback and we questionnaire. look forward to being of service. Peter Cox, VIC We will be considering and Second Prize: implementing these various suggestions in future Down to Earth Trevor Hall, Dunedin, NZ Third Prize: Darren Hickson, QLD 28 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 SCOTT BERRY, NATIONAL UNDERCARRIAGE MANAGER

alternative undercarriage for non- “In addition, our undercarriage maintenance contracts. Komatsu equipment. offering is backed up by the most Prior to joining Komatsu, Scott comprehensive distribution, support “My role is to increase Komatsu’s worked for five years with another and service network across Australia undercarriage business, through major supplier of construction and and New Zealand – meaning we developing strategies to value-add agricultural equipment, in product can provide solutions to drive down our undercarriage offerings to our manager roles as well as looking customers’ costs of owning and customers,” he said. after GPS-based machine control operating crawler equipment,” he system implementation on broad “This includes ensuring our customer said. acre farming equipment. support and new equipment sales Scott, who joined Komatsu Australia representatives are fully aware of the During this time, he also undertook in his new role in late August this wide range of undercarriage solutions a Graduate Diploma in Business year, has many years’ experience we can offer for both Komatsu and Administration at SGSM based at in the construction and related non-Komatsu equipment owners, the University of Western Sydney. industries. giving them the information and tools “My experience and training during Komatsu Australia has appointed they need to communicate this to His initial training was as a diesel my working life in the construction Scott Berry as its Manager, customers. mechanic, working in the construction and related industries has given me Undercarriage Sales and and agricultural sectors. “We are able to offer the market an excellent grounding for this new Business Development. a unique mix of genuine Komatsu He worked with a major equipment role at Komatsu, and I look forward In this position, Scott is responsible undercarriage, along with Berco’s high supplier for a number of years, to the challenges and opportunities for both genuine Komatsu genuine quality undercarriage range – allowing initially as a fitter before moving ahead,” Scott said. undercarriage as well as Berco us to provide a complete undercarriage up through various roles, and finally undercarriage products as a quality solution to all customers. taking on responsibility for managing

ROBIN BARKLEY, NZ NATIONAL PARTS MANAGER

warehouses throughout the world, months, it remains a very healthy of parts at our Westport branch to and are sourced from Japan, US, business, and we don’t expect it will ensure we are much more responsive Europe, and Australia. decline significantly. Komatsu NZ’s to the needs of our customers at the parts business is in very good shape. Stockton mining operation, as well Robin served his apprenticeship as a as those in the surrounding region. sheet metal fabricator in Ireland and “The earthmoving parts business is before coming to New Zealand was very competitive, particularly with “That will mean the parts availability working with Rolls Royce’s Aircraft the availability of alternative parts for our West Coast customers – Division in the UK. sourcing via the internet today, and along with others throughout the so our customers have plenty of South Island – will improve no end.” He first got into the parts business other options,” said Robin. with NZ, where he was A key element of Robin’s role is to national parts manager for six years “However, we are able to offer ensure the company’s parts business before joining Tyres as warranties on all our parts – which is even more customer focussed, NZ retail manager, a position he alternative parts suppliers cannot do offering more promotional campaigns, worked in for two years. – plus we are able to hold very good special pricing offers on parts and Robin Barkley has been stock levels in our stores throughout services, to increase its parts profile “However, I missed the people appointed as Komatsu New New Zealand, so customers are able and customer awareness of what and the complexities of the parts Zealand’s National Parts to source parts quickly. Komatsu NZ can provide. business and when this opportunity Manager, responsible for all parts at Komatsu came up, I jumped at it,” “We are also building up our stocks “In terms of parts availability, we for Komatsu products coming said Robin. of parts held in our three South are aware there is always room for into NZ, then distributing them Island branches, ensuring that we improvement, but we do have a good to the company’s eight branches He said that over the past few years, have the right parts available to suit supply rate, and we are able to act and six Service Partners around Komatsu NZ has seen very rapid our customers throughout the South significantly quicker than our parts the country. growth in its parts business, well Island,” he said. competitors as we have the ability into double digits. These parts come from Komatsu Ltd’s to bring in parts quickly from our “For example, we have recently factories, manufacturing centres and “Even with the downturn in recent Australian operations if they are not substantially increased our holding available in NZ,” he said.

DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50 29 Hi Komatsu Kids! Come and visit us at Komatsu! Go to www.komatsu.com.au and click on the tab Komatsu World where you’ll find the Komatsu Kids link.

NEW So who’s world will you enter first? WEBSITE! Kim likes to look after the environment, and teaches her friends how to look after it too. Let’s learn about the environment!

Matt has made a family album of Komatsu’s machines. Let’s have a look and learn about the Komatsu family of machines!

Sue has created lots of fun games and activities for you to try. Test your skills at find-a-word, crosswords, mazes and art and craft. Let’s have some fun!

We look forward to you visiting us! Kim, Matt and Sue!

ONLINE COMPETITION!

Visit: www.komatsu.com.au and click on the tab Komatsu World where you’ll find the Komatsu Kids link and tell us what creative name our friend the excavator should be called! The best 5 entries will win a Komatsu Kids pack! Entries close 27 February 2009. The winning name will be posted in our next issue! Put those thinking caps on!

30 DOWN TO EARTH Issue 50

www.komatsu.com.au

from the ground up Whether it’s the Komatsu D375A-5EO or D475A-5EO doing the work Technically-advanced mining dozers offer: for you, when it comes to taking on the really big challenges, you’ve got the power you need to succeed. With advanced features including  Excellent productivity automatic lockup torque converter that increases power transmission  efficiency on long pushes while saving fuel at the same time, plus the  Advanced high-power engines K-bogie system for improved traction and low profile designs for superior  balance, the Komatsu dozers don’t let anything stand in their way.  Impressive fuel efficiency

 Class-leading cabin comfort With Komatsu’s superior service level commitment behind them,  the Komatsu D375A-5 and D475A-5 will continue to push the boundaries  More grading ability and stability of your success. That’s the Komatsu difference.  Optimised balance ratio For further information, contact your Komatsu representative today. 

1300 KOMATSU (1300 566 287) WILSON-KOM0265

(KOM0265).indd 1 28/9/07 3:15:03 PM