February 2020 was a significant month for many – it marked a leap year and it also marked SMW Group’s 20th successful year in business.

Back in 2000, we began with one man and a mobile welding trailer providing fabrication trade services to local industry. Twenty years later, the business employs over 300 staff across multiple trades and engineering disciplines and we’re known across the Bowen Basin, Queensland and Australia for a dedication to engineering continuous improvement.

Humble beginnings

SMW Group started out as a mobile welding business, with founding Director Scott Stevens operating as the sole working tradesperson. Several years later the ownership expanded with Frank Humphreys then Jack Trenaman joining as Directors.

The new ownership structure saw continued growth past a milestone of 100 employees. With accelerated growth capabilities of multiple trade and engineering disciplines, it was time for a new business strategy and rebrand to SMW Group.

Managing Director Jack Trenaman reflects that the branding change and great customer service opened many doors for the company, positioning SMW Group as a full end-to-end mining and heavy industry service provider, not just a trade-based business.

“While our SMW branding has been a part of the CQ industry scene for decades, we show that our capabilities go far beyond trade services. We truly partner with our clients to help them solve problems – whether that’s through on-site service delivery, clever engineering or quick manufacturing and repair turnarounds.”

Stretching our legs – the move to Parkhurst

The move from Depot Hill’s Wharf Street to Parkhurst Industrial Estate allowed space for a fabrication workshop, mechanical workshop and on-site abrasive blasting and painting facilities, as well as the ability to operate 24/7.

By working with the right people and supporting the community, SMW Group have long been leaders in innovation and automation, with a team of tradespeople and engineers redefining best-practice in mining and heavy industry manufacturing, maintenance, robotics and fabrication.

Industry recognition

In 2014 we took out Queensland Mining Contractor of the Year win gaining recognition from industry peers for a game-changing production line approach to full-fleet overhauls that dramatically reduced tray repair costs to the customer by $1 million over the first 10 tray refurbishments. This accolade came in the midst of mining’s toughest times in recent memory, with SMW Group defying industry trends and growing through the downturn.

Moving forward

Excellent client relationships have led to a number of innovative business ventures over the years, as the company added services to meet the needs of the market. This includes our Ultrahaul trays, as well as the Clean Team and iHire – becoming a true one-vendor solution.

SMW Group hasn’t stopped evolving – our most recent change is a move of the company’s corporate, engineering and planning staff into Rockhampton’s CBD on East Street.

It’s safe to say that there’s plenty more on the way for SMW Group, and that the first 20 years is just the beginning.