September 2023

SouthCut Plant and Civil

You’re in Control with the Zaxis-7 series of excavators   With a strong focus on technology and the future, the development of the Hitachi Zaxis-7 series of excavators was driven by the goal of creating next-generation solutions. This was accomplished through a thorough review and refinement of its technology, taking into account both natural and work environments. The result is a new level of performance in the industrial world, seamlessly integrating human qualities into the Zaxis-7 series.  


In 2022, Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd (HCA) proudly introduced the Zaxis-7 range of medium excavators to the Australian market, empowering customers to take full control of their safety, fleet management, profitability, and comfort thanks to its enhanced reliability, versatility, and productivity.

Among the satisfied customers is Tom Hance, the owner of SouthCut Plant & Civil, a Melbourne-based company specialising in equestrian/horse arenas, local council and civil construction projects. Tom purchased a Hitachi ZX135-7 excavator in late 2022, and he couldn’t be happier with his decision.

“The ZX135-7 truly stands out when it comes to completing precise final trim work; it’s a dream to operate. The boys are able to complete jobs more efficiently with less fatigue due to the new cab,” stated Tom.

Presenting an expansive cab that sets a new industry standard for spaciousness, coupled with a synchronized console, these enhancements not only increase operator comfort but also reduce fatigue.

The redesigned interior significantly enhances operator visibility through features like LED work lights, an effective windscreen wiper, generously sized reflective strips, and roller sunshades. Additional notable features are the inclusion of a standard 270-degree rear camera, complete with an object proximity sensor ensuring a heightened level of safety within the work environment. The ISO standard TOPS and ROPS cab with seat belt further strengthens operator safety and protection.

The excavator comes with built-in Consite capabilities, facilitating real-time monitoring of machine performance. Playing a crucial role in pre-emptive maintenance and prolonging the machine’s lifespan. Additionally, an alarm display is integrated to promptly alert the operator to any issues, enabling swift attention.

The ZX135-7’s 2D GPS hydraulics have greatly increased its versatility, allowing the SouthCut team to effortlessly tackle various jobs, from final trim applications requiring a super-smooth operation to tree work that demands heavy lifting capabilities. Thanks to the renowned Hitachi hydraulic system, fuel consumption is reduced compared to the previous models.



With upcoming contracts for an equestrian complex past Ballarat; Victoria and several arena builds scheduled for the spring-summer of 2023, the team at SouthCut have a full schedule ahead. The ZX135-7 will primarily be utilised on bulk earthworks and drainage on local council projects.

The excavator comes with built-in Consite capabilities, facilitating real-time monitoring of machine performance. Playing a crucial role in pre-emptive maintenance and prolonging the machine’s lifespan. Additionally, an alarm display is integrated to promptly alert the operator to any issues, enabling swift attention.

The ZX135-7’s 2D GPS hydraulics have greatly increased its versatility, allowing the SouthCut team to effortlessly tackle various jobs, from final trim applications requiring a super-smooth operation to tree work that demands heavy lifting capabilities. Thanks to the renowned Hitachi hydraulic system, fuel consumption is reduced compared to the previous models.

With upcoming contracts for an equestrian complex past Ballarat; Victoria and several arena builds scheduled for the spring-summer of 2023, the team at SouthCut have a full schedule ahead. The ZX135-7 will primarily be utilised on bulk earthworks and drainage on local council projects.

The decision to purchase the ZX135-7 excavator was driven by its exceptional reliability and the support network it offered. Tom sought “a machine that would continue to perform well past the factory warranty date” and was pleased to find that dealing with the service and parts team at Hitachi’s Melbourne branch was an exceptional experience, further strengthening his confidence in the global brand.

During his interactions with HCA’s Sales Representative, Wesley Don, Tom was impressed by the professionalism, punctuality, and transparency demonstrated. Right from the beginning, Tom was treated like a valued member of the “orange family,” inspiring him to make a second purchase from Hitachi- a ZX85 excavator in March 2023.

The Hitachi Zaxis-7 range of excavators has truly made a mark in the industry with its cutting-edge technology and operator-friendly features. Tom’s positive experience with his ZX135-7 speaks volumes about the success of this new generation of excavators.

To check out the range of Zaxis-7 excavators, visit www.hitachicm.com.au or call 1300 HITACHI to arrange a test drive.





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#TheOrangeFamily

Happy Australia Day! 🦘 🐨
From city sites to the bush — here’s to the land, the people, and the work that keeps Australia moving.
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Daniel from DJ & KA Brown Plumbing has just taken delivery of his brand new ZX17U-5 💪

This marks machine number six Daniel has traded over the years - a great example of long-term trust built on reliability, performance, and support.

Thanks again for your continued confidence, Daniel. We’re proud to support your work with equipment that’s built to deliver, job after job.
Dig Deep Debrief – Troy Harding

Recorded during our Dig Deep Sales Conference, this episode features Troy Harding, Director at @wellamconstructions in Geelong, Victoria.

Troy shares his perspective from the customer side - what matters on site, what he values in a machinery partner, and the insights that come from real-world experience in civil construction.

Practical, honest, and grounded in the realities of the job - this is one not to miss.

🎥 Watch the full episode.
Humans Behind the Machine – Episode 2: Peter Horn

Machines matter — but it’s the people behind them that make the difference.

In Episode 2 of Humans Behind the Machine, Peter Horn shares his experience working in demanding environments where reliability, trust and performance aren’t optional.

It’s a straightforward conversation about people, machines and the realities of the job - told by someone who lives it every day.

🎥 Watch the full episode to hear Peter’s story.
🔁 Back for seconds!

Andrew from Armadale Plumbing taking delivery of his second Hitachi ZX17U-5 🙌
When the right machine proves itself on the job, there’s no need to look elsewhere.

Thanks for your continued trust - we love seeing repeat customers in the yard 💪🧡
Thank you for building with us this year!
Here’s to an even bigger year ahead. Happy New Year! 🎆
Merry Christmas!!
Even Santa knows the best pit stop is on site. 🎅🦺🧡

#MerryOrangeChristmas #OrangeFamily #BuiltForTheJob #BuiltToLast #HCA #OrangeFamily🍊 #LANDCROS
Happy Australia Day! 🦘 🐨
From city sites to the bush — here’s to the land, the people, and the work that keeps Australia moving.
🔑 Delivery Day

Daniel from DJ & KA Brown Plumbing has just taken delivery of his brand new ZX17U-5 💪

This marks machine number six Daniel has traded over the years - a great example of long-term trust built on reliability, performance, and support.

Thanks again for your continued confidence, Daniel. We’re proud to support your work with equipment that’s built to deliver, job after job.
Dig Deep Debrief – Troy Harding

Recorded during our Dig Deep Sales Conference, this episode features Troy Harding, Director at @wellamconstructions in Geelong, Victoria.

Troy shares his perspective from the customer side - what matters on site, what he values in a machinery partner, and the insights that come from real-world experience in civil construction.

Practical, honest, and grounded in the realities of the job - this is one not to miss.

🎥 Watch the full episode.
Humans Behind the Machine – Episode 2: Peter Horn

Machines matter — but it’s the people behind them that make the difference.

In Episode 2 of Humans Behind the Machine, Peter Horn shares his experience working in demanding environments where reliability, trust and performance aren’t optional.

It’s a straightforward conversation about people, machines and the realities of the job - told by someone who lives it every day.

🎥 Watch the full episode to hear Peter’s story.
🔁 Back for seconds!

Andrew from Armadale Plumbing taking delivery of his second Hitachi ZX17U-5 🙌
When the right machine proves itself on the job, there’s no need to look elsewhere.

Thanks for your continued trust - we love seeing repeat customers in the yard 💪🧡
Thank you for building with us this year!
Here’s to an even bigger year ahead. Happy New Year! 🎆
Merry Christmas!!
Even Santa knows the best pit stop is on site. 🎅🦺🧡

#MerryOrangeChristmas #OrangeFamily #BuiltForTheJob #BuiltToLast #HCA #OrangeFamily🍊 #LANDCROS

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