September 2022

Katelyn
Shirtcliffe

Apprentice Mechanic – Muswellbrook


What do you enjoy most about your role at Hitachi?

I’m a 4th year apprentice plant mechanic. I fix heavy machinery in the mines and also construction machinery, for example; excavators, dump trucks, dozers and articulating dump trucks. I love that I could be working on different machines with completely different situations. Every day is different, so I learn something new in every situation when working on the machinery.

Has your pathway into this field been challenging?

It has been quite challenging balancing TAFE with working full time. However, working with great supervisors and tradesmen, whether it’s in the workshop or out in field, having all that experience and knowledge from others has definitely helped me learn throughout my apprenticeship.

Has it been a fulfilling career journey?

Yes it has definitely been fulfilling, as the work conditions constantly change. Every day is different and an exciting way to learn new things is. I’m on the lifestyle roster which is great, because I can go travelling on my days off, play rugby union and hang out with my friends.

Does your job provide you a sense of achievement?

I get more confident every week with the support of my tradesmen. While I am still in my apprenticeship and still learning, I try my absolute best in everything I do. I’ve also recently joined the Muswellbrook branches’ safety committee, so I’m hoping I can bring some new fresh ideas to have positive outcomes throughout the workforce.



While I am still in my apprenticeship and still learning, I try my absolute best in everything I do

How would you describe your experience so far at Hitachi?

I have had the best experience at Hitachi. As soon as my apprenticeship is completed, at the start of next year I look forward to staying on full time in Field Service and continuing my Hitachi OEM career.

What personal attributes have brought you success so far in your apprenticeship?

Always show interest in the jobs you’re undertaking, be like a sponge and absorb as much knowledge as you can from the tradesmen and supervisors. There is a lot of experience and wisdom to access, and always so much to learn and expand on your experience!





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#TheOrangeFamily

Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia is heading to QME 2026!

Join us in Mackay from 21–23 July and experience some of the largest and most advanced mining equipment in the industry.

On display will be the impressive EX1200 mining excavator, along with an EX8000 excavator bucket, showcasing the scale, innovation and reliability that Hitachi brings to mining operations across Australia.

Whether you're looking to optimise productivity, improve efficiency, or simply get up close to world-class mining equipment, our team will be on hand to discuss the latest solutions for your operation.

📍 QME 2026 | Mackay
📅 21–23 July 2026

We look forward to seeing you there!

#QME2026 #HitachiConstructionMachinery #MiningEquipment #Hitachi #MiningIndustry #Mackay #Excavators
Australia's highest-hour EX5600-7 has reached another significant milestone.

After more than 38,000 operating hours, the machine has undergone its first swing bearing replacement. The major component change completed safely and successfully by two dedicated crews.

The project was delivered with zero safety incidents, reflecting the planning, expertise and commitment of everyone involved throughout the change-out.

This milestone also marks 10 years since HCA’s designed and developed Elevation System first entered operation, highlighting the long-term durability and performance that continue to support mining operations across Australia.

38,000 hours.
First swing bearing replacement.
Two crews.
Zero safety incidents.

A testament to the people, planning and equipment behind one of Australia's hardest-working EX5600-7 excavators.
Stepping up its game. 👢

This Hitachi ZX85USB-7 delivered to Specialized Digging Services (SDS) (@gb_diggs) shows what precision on-site can look like when paired with an engcon rotating wrist and full attachment setup.

From heavy digging work through to fine control tasks (like picking up a boot), this machine has been configured to handle more with minimal changeover time and greater flexibility on site.
Less repositioning. Fewer support machines. Better overall efficiency where it matters most.

Because capability is not only about power. It is about control.
"Reliability means delivering for our customers, not letting them down and keeping the wheels turning."

That's how Cameron Madeira, Operations Manager at ECORR, describes the role Hitachi equipment plays in their operation.

Processing thousands of tonnes of concrete every day, ECORR relies on a fleet of Hitachi excavators and wheel loaders to tackle one of Australia's toughest working environments. From separating steel and concrete to keeping crushers fed and material moving, reliability isn't optional—it's essential.

We're proud to support ECORR as they continue their mission to be leaders in the recycling industry.

@ecorr_eco_resource_recovery
Throwback to our 2025 Construction Equipment Sales Conference - where the team got hands-on with the machines they talk about every day. 👷‍♂️💥

From walkarounds to machine demos, it was a chance for our Construction Equipment Sales Representatives to get up close with the gear, share knowledge and sharpen their understanding of the products supporting customers across Australia.

Because selling equipment is one thing. Knowing it inside and out is another. 👊
Look after the big fella and the big fella looks after you.

This King's Birthday, a reminder worth holding onto. The machines that lead your fleet for the longest are the ones backed by proper servicing, genuine parts, and a team that knows them down to the bolt.

Treat your equipment with that standard, and it rewards you with uptime, resale value, and years of reliable work.

What is the oldest Hitachi | LANDCROS machine still earning its keep on your site? 
Drop its age below.
The name is changing.
The Japanese reliability operators count on is not.

From construction sites to quarries and mining operations, the machines trusted across Australia are stepping into a new era under the LANDCROS name.

Same proven performance.
Same dependable support.
Same commitment to getting the job done.

LANDCROS — Solutions Beyond Machinery.
Big bloke.
Compact machine.
Still plenty of room to get comfortable.

George from Sydney walks through the ZX17U-5 and shows why compact does not mean cramped. With a spacious operator area, easy access and the performance to match, this machine is built to work hard in tight spaces.

Small footprint. Serious capability.
Meet the machine. 👊

Bryce Gibson from Revesby takes you through the Hitachi ZX55U-5 - the compact excavator built to punch above its weight.

From HN bushings that help reduce pin wear, to easy-access servicing and radiator protection designed for harsh Australian conditions, the ZX55U-5 is packed with features that help keep crews moving and downtime low.

Tight access. Smooth operation. Proven Hitachi reliability.

Watch the walkthrough and see why the ZX55U-5 continues to earn its place on worksites across Australia.
Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia is heading to QME 2026!

Join us in Mackay from 21–23 July and experience some of the largest and most advanced mining equipment in the industry.

On display will be the impressive EX1200 mining excavator, along with an EX8000 excavator bucket, showcasing the scale, innovation and reliability that Hitachi brings to mining operations across Australia.

Whether you're looking to optimise productivity, improve efficiency, or simply get up close to world-class mining equipment, our team will be on hand to discuss the latest solutions for your operation.

📍 QME 2026 | Mackay
📅 21–23 July 2026

We look forward to seeing you there!

#QME2026 #HitachiConstructionMachinery #MiningEquipment #Hitachi #MiningIndustry #Mackay #Excavators
Australia's highest-hour EX5600-7 has reached another significant milestone.

After more than 38,000 operating hours, the machine has undergone its first swing bearing replacement. The major component change completed safely and successfully by two dedicated crews.

The project was delivered with zero safety incidents, reflecting the planning, expertise and commitment of everyone involved throughout the change-out.

This milestone also marks 10 years since HCA’s designed and developed Elevation System first entered operation, highlighting the long-term durability and performance that continue to support mining operations across Australia.

38,000 hours.
First swing bearing replacement.
Two crews.
Zero safety incidents.

A testament to the people, planning and equipment behind one of Australia's hardest-working EX5600-7 excavators.
Stepping up its game. 👢

This Hitachi ZX85USB-7 delivered to Specialized Digging Services (SDS) (@gb_diggs) shows what precision on-site can look like when paired with an engcon rotating wrist and full attachment setup.

From heavy digging work through to fine control tasks (like picking up a boot), this machine has been configured to handle more with minimal changeover time and greater flexibility on site.
Less repositioning. Fewer support machines. Better overall efficiency where it matters most.

Because capability is not only about power. It is about control.
"Reliability means delivering for our customers, not letting them down and keeping the wheels turning."

That's how Cameron Madeira, Operations Manager at ECORR, describes the role Hitachi equipment plays in their operation.

Processing thousands of tonnes of concrete every day, ECORR relies on a fleet of Hitachi excavators and wheel loaders to tackle one of Australia's toughest working environments. From separating steel and concrete to keeping crushers fed and material moving, reliability isn't optional—it's essential.

We're proud to support ECORR as they continue their mission to be leaders in the recycling industry.

@ecorr_eco_resource_recovery
Throwback to our 2025 Construction Equipment Sales Conference - where the team got hands-on with the machines they talk about every day. 👷‍♂️💥

From walkarounds to machine demos, it was a chance for our Construction Equipment Sales Representatives to get up close with the gear, share knowledge and sharpen their understanding of the products supporting customers across Australia.

Because selling equipment is one thing. Knowing it inside and out is another. 👊
Look after the big fella and the big fella looks after you.

This King's Birthday, a reminder worth holding onto. The machines that lead your fleet for the longest are the ones backed by proper servicing, genuine parts, and a team that knows them down to the bolt.

Treat your equipment with that standard, and it rewards you with uptime, resale value, and years of reliable work.

What is the oldest Hitachi | LANDCROS machine still earning its keep on your site? 
Drop its age below.
The name is changing.
The Japanese reliability operators count on is not.

From construction sites to quarries and mining operations, the machines trusted across Australia are stepping into a new era under the LANDCROS name.

Same proven performance.
Same dependable support.
Same commitment to getting the job done.

LANDCROS — Solutions Beyond Machinery.
Big bloke.
Compact machine.
Still plenty of room to get comfortable.

George from Sydney walks through the ZX17U-5 and shows why compact does not mean cramped. With a spacious operator area, easy access and the performance to match, this machine is built to work hard in tight spaces.

Small footprint. Serious capability.
Meet the machine. 👊

Bryce Gibson from Revesby takes you through the Hitachi ZX55U-5 - the compact excavator built to punch above its weight.

From HN bushings that help reduce pin wear, to easy-access servicing and radiator protection designed for harsh Australian conditions, the ZX55U-5 is packed with features that help keep crews moving and downtime low.

Tight access. Smooth operation. Proven Hitachi reliability.

Watch the walkthrough and see why the ZX55U-5 continues to earn its place on worksites across Australia.

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