Australian Power Equipment’s dual directors are making twice the impact at mine sites thanks to their commitment to quality service and sustainability.
When establishing their company in 2020, Australian Power Equipment’s (APE) dual directors Abby Crawford and Andrew Cockbain knew they wanted to do things differently.
Together, Crawford and Cockbain have merged their 60 combined years of industry experience to offer some of Australia’s largest mining companies sustainable, high-voltage electrical power solutions.
“Our journey has been hallmarked by a commitment to sustainable practices and innovation, underpinned by the principles of a circular economy,” Crawford told Mining.
“We review our clients’ scope of work collaboratively and provide power solutions that fit their requirements, oftentimes developing better outcomes for their site.”
facility in Indonesia last year,
Crawford was struck by the company’s
genuine commitment to sustainability. Image: APE
A large part of APE’s offering comes in the form of refurbished and repurposed assets like electrical switchgear and transformers.
“By investing in Australian service providers for refurbishing, re-engineering and testing equipment, we support local businesses and strengthen our communities,” Crawford said. “We also nurture our agency agreements with our new equipment suppliers globally.
“These relationships have transcended traditional supplier dynamics, evolving into partnerships based on shared values and mutual goals.”
APE has global partnerships with industry brands such as cable manufacturer Üntel, substation leader WE Walters, switchgear provider Leistung Energie, and B&D Transformers.
During a visit to B&D’s facility in Surabaya, Indonesia, last year, Crawford was struck by the company’s genuine commitment to sustainability.
“From utilising environmentally friendly but superior quality, biodegradable natural ester transforming insulating oil in their transformers to implementing simple yet effective measures such as their multi-level open parking blocks adorned with lush foliage to mitigate pollutants, it’s evident that B&D prioritises both the environment and their people,” she said.
Cockbain and Crawford have made it a point to spend time with all of their industry partners to secure a sense of connection, and to build an environment of transparency and trust, as well as a shared vision for the future.
Together, this network has helped Australian miners find solutions quickly and effectively that could have otherwise taken in excess of 40 weeks to arrive on site.
“We have been able to source parts and have them delivered to site as an expedited solution more times than we can count,” Cockbain told Mining. “One client recently needed a part in a tight timeframe and we had it on a plane from Singapore in two days.
“The client rang to find out where it was – the part was already installed at the mine.”
This kind of service isn’t the only area in which APE excels. As Australian mining continues to expand and evolve, it’s more important than ever for the companies that support miners with critical equipment and services to have strong foundations from which the sector can grow.
This goes beyond simply providing a high-quality offering – though that is a feat in itself. The strongest of today’s companies are defined by strong core values, a commitment to a better world, and an ability to grow with the needs of the sector.
APE has all three qualities in spades.
The company is also a dedicated supporter of wildlife conservation and is a primary sponsor of Taronga Conservation Society Australia, as well as a corporate partner with Aussie Ark.
APE’s funding allows Taronga Zoo Sydney to dedicate a platypus project lead to focus on developing operational, husbandry and scientific guidelines, and to operate its purpose-built refuge and research facility.
“Critical conservation programs, such as our platypus conservation recovery program, cannot happen without the support from our partners,” Taronga Conservation Society Australia wildlife conservation officer Dr Phoebe Meagher said. “The knowledge and expertise within our two sites drives our tangible conservation outcomes and has the power to make a legacy impact for threatened species.
“Supporting people and skills provides the necessary fire for change and is one of the most crucial factors in project success. A heartfelt thank you to Australian Power Equipment for their continued engagement and support. The partnership is making a difference to the future of the platypus.”
Crawford hopes APE will “be remembered as leaders in sustainable business practices”.
“Demonstrating that profitability and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand,” she said.
“Despite our exponential growth, we remain committed to selecting partnerships that prioritise impact over profit and align with our vision for a more inclusive and sustainable world.”
