Specialised equipment solutions for mining and material handling, above and below ground

Materials handling applications in underground mines demand specialised equipment capable of operating safely and efficiently in tight spaces. Machinery such as forklifts, telehandlers, and reach stackers not only need to handle heavy loads and complex lifting tasks, but also carefully shift the required materials while manoeuvring around roof supports and other critical infrastructure.

For over 20 years, Hunter Plant Hire has been servicing the mining, transport, and material handling industries across New South Wales and Queensland.

Leveraging experience in material handling, logistics, transport equipment, and related operations, the team offers the highest quality equipment solutions, either with or without operators. Whether it’s above or below ground, wet or dry hire, Hunter Plant Hire’s flexible approach ensures that equipment and services align seamlessly with their clients’ unique project requirements.

As the preferred supplier of specialised forklifts, telehandlers and flame-proof underground skid steer loaders, the company’s extensive fleet is designed to meet varied operational needs.

We specialise in dry and wet hire of fully compliant underground mineloaders and large capacity fork trucks,” said Hunter Plant Hire’s Brock McPhee.

“Our large capacity forklifts and reach stackers with lifting capacities of up to 60 tonnes are ideal for longwall changes and heavy-duty tasks, and offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional crane hire.”

McPhee added, “Our fleet allows us to provide a range of options to suit client requirements, including dedicated container handler forklifts, RORO trucks, fully-compliant underground mineloaders, and telehandlers with capacities up to 12 tonnes.”

Mineloaders, Built for Loads

Innovations in design and production make it possible for mining equipment manufacturers to produce machinery that is safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective. This has seen Hunter Plant Hire deliver a flexible approach by integrating new mineloaders and OEM solutions to achieve the best possible results. This includes completely customising mineloader builds for specific customer needs.

The underground Mustang Mineloader 2054 Series II reflects our commitment to embracing advanced technologies and meeting compliance and performance needs underground,” said McPhee.

“As the OEM for these mineloaders, we ensure these are MDG01 compliant. They integrate a Kubota V2403 engine package and Hi Flow hydraulics, and feature solid fill tyres and a 4-in-1 Bucket as standard. We also offer a range of attachments for these machines, including an underbelt cleaner.”

A mineloader is a long-term investment. It was designed to withstand the most challenging underground mining activities, with high uptime, low operating costs and extended life. Hunter Plant Hire provides premium spare parts to support the life of the mineloaders. It understands that procuring the right parts in time is essential to avoid unnecessary project delays. As such, it maintains high levels of stock to deliver quickly and reduce downtime, including same-day despatch for in-stock items.

Beyond Equipment Hire

Hunter Plant Hire do more than just supply new and used equipment. The company handles a full range of repairs, codes, rebuilds and maintenance to a large range of equipment. This is backed by a team of experts who ensure that all mechanical, structural, and electrical activities are accurate and efficient.

“We understand that every client has a special set of requirements that may not be completely addressed by our equipment,” said McPhee.

“If you feel that you want something more out of our present models, we are open to making upgrades or offering alternative solutions to your needs. Our field service mechanics will be on-hand to ensure your newly procured material handling equipment performs as expected.”

Hunter Plant Hire is also supported by a full mechanical and engineering workshop located in Thornton, NSW. This facility offers comprehensive repair, rebuild and maintenance services, and features overhead crane and workspace for large machinery.

“We are not only an OEM for the manufacture of new underground mineloaders, but also manage the complete rebuild and overhaul of these loaders and forklifts, ” said McPhee.

“The maintenance of underground diesel engine systems, transmission rebuilds, and general plant maintenance are other specialist services we provide. We also supply spare parts and tyres, as well as offer blasting and painting services for equipment refurbishment.”

Hunter Plant Hire has many long-standing contracts with major industry players, including Yancoal, Glencore, Toll, Centennial Coal, Anglo American and Peabody. These partnerships underscore the company’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality services that meet the rigorous demands of large-scale operations.

For more information, call 02 4964 9959 or visit www.hunterplanthire.com.au/