The History of Cranes in Australia’s Commercial and Residential Industries
Can you imagine trying to undertake a commercial or residential project without a crane? That sounds like our biggest nightmare! Today, we’re taking a look back at how this crane story all started. The use of cranes in Australia continues to evolve, as our construction technology improves, and urban areas expand.
Early history
In the late 1800s, cranes were essential for handling cargo in Australia's bustling ports and harbors. These robust machines facilitated the loading and unloading of goods from ships, enabling efficient trade and commerce across the continent. From wool and grain to minerals and manufactured goods, cranes played a vital role in the transportation and distribution of Australia's diverse exports and imports, supporting the growth of its economy and international trade networks.
In the 19th century, cranes dominated skylines as they facilitated the erection of towering buildings and bridges, emblematic of urban growth and modernization in Sydney and Melbourne. Moreover, in remote regions, cranes played a crucial role in the development of mining operations, aiding in the extraction and transportation of valuable resources such as coal, gold, and iron ore.
Post-World War II expansion
From the 1940s to 1960s, Australia saw a construction boom after World War II. This led to the increased usage of cranes in both commercial and residential projects. This period marked the increase of high-rise construction in major cities.
Technological advancements and the rise of Lindores Mobile Cranes
From the 1970s onwards, the introduction of tower cranes revolutionised the construction industry in Australia. These cranes were essential for constructing taller buildings, particularly in the confined spaces of developing CBD’s.
In 1985, Lindores Cranes and Rigging was founded by Peter Lindores and started trading as Total Rigging. In 1993, Chris Austin pioneered the introduction of Mini and Mobile Cranes to Southeast Queensland, with his company Mini Cranes Queensland.
Recent developments
From the 2000s onwards there has been significant advancements in crane technology, including the more-widespread adoption of Mobile and Crawler cranes that offer versatility and efficiency. In 2007, Mini Cranes Queensland was passed on to the Lindores family. We officially changed the name of Queensland Mini Cranes to Lindores Mobile Cranes
in 2015.
Throughout this time, Lindores Mobile Cranes
has continued advocacy of the use of Mobile cranes in construction, industry, and manufacturing throughout Queensland.
The future
The current trend in the crane industry includes integrating digital technologies for better load management, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance. Automation and remote operation of cranes are becoming more prevalent, aiming to increase safety and efficiency.
To get Lindores Mobile Cranes
on your next job, give us a call on 📞 07 3376 0611.
The Liftout
Tight access, awkward angles, or weight restrictions on-site? If you’re dealing with any of these headaches, you’re not alone. Across Southeast Queensland, construction teams regularly run into access limitations that can delay progress and blow out budgets. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we get it- not every site is set up for a 100-tonne monster. That’s why we offer a versatile fleet of mini crawler cranes that are built for tight-access environments. We currently have two varieties of highly capable mini crawler cranes, each offering a unique solution depending on your site’s challenges. Our Fleet The 2.8T Mini Crawler is Ideal for ultra-tight access jobs or delicate indoor lifts. Its compact footprint allows it to move through narrow doorways and between structural obstacles with ease. The 4.8T Mini Crawler is best for lifts that demand higher capacity but still require a smaller crane profile than standard mobile cranes. Both models are engineered for precision, low ground pressure, and maximum stability, making them perfect for residential construction, commercial fit outs, and restricted urban sites. Where Mini Crawlers shine: Backyard lifts, indoor instillations, heritage building projects, high-density developments, multi-storey lifts and much more! Why Choose Mini Crawlers? Due to their compact design, these cranes can fit where most machines cannot. Offering a quick setup, Mini Crawlers have a faster turnaround time in comparison to regular cranes. These machines also have a reduced site disruption, and their precision makes them excellent for handling fragile or expansive equipment. Additionally, they are easier and cheaper to move between sites! We’ve helped countless builders and project managers keep their schedules on track by delivering smart, site-specific lifting solutions. If you’re facing access issues, don’t compromise your project with the wrong equipment. Contact Lindores Mobile Cranes today and let’s talk about how our Mini Crawler fleet can help get the job done- safely, efficiently, and on time. Email lmcops@lmcranes.com.au .
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we understand that the key to safe and efficient crane operations is regular preventive maintenance. By staying proactive, we minimise downtime, prevent costly repairs, and ensure our fleet remains in peak condition. Keeping our equipment in top-notch shape allows us to deliver the best possible service to you! Why is Preventive Maintenance Essential? Our cranes handle heavy loads daily and operate in demanding environments, which makes regular maintenance a top priority. Through routine inspections and servicing, we identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring compliance with industry safety standards and extending the lifespan of our equipment. How Do We Maintain Our Cranes? Thorough Inspections We conduct daily and weekly checks on hydraulic systems, cables, brakes, and structural components to catch early signs of wear and tear. Lubrication and Fluid Monitoring Keeping our cranes properly lubricated and maintaining hydraulic and engine fluid levels helps us prevent mechanical failures. Routine Load Testing We regularly test our cranes to ensure they can safely handle the specified loads without risk of malfunction. Ongoing Operator Training Our experienced operators are trained to spot potential mechanical issues early, allowing us to address them before they cause disruptions. What are the Long-Term Benefits for Our Clients? ● Enhanced Safety – Our commitment to maintenance reduces the risk of accidents, protecting both our team and our clients. ● Operational Reliability – Well-maintained cranes mean fewer delays and smoother project execution. ● Cost-Effectivenes s – By preventing major breakdowns, we save on expensive emergency repairs and ensure competitive pricing for our services. Our Promise to You.. At Lindores Mobile Crane s, we take pride in maintaining a fleet that meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our preventive maintenance program is more than just routine checks—it’s a commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality service every time you work with us. Why Choose Lindores Mobile Cranes ? When you partner with us, you’re choosing a team that values personalised service, unwavering dedication to safety, and a strong connection to the local community. As a family-owned business, we bring a level of care and expertise that sets us apart. Experience the difference our commitment makes— contact us today at lmcops@lmcranes.com.a u to learn more about our crane services.
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , cranes are in our DNA. We are a family-owned and operated company, dedicated to bringing you the best service. Our tight-knit team of skilled crane drivers, riggers and operations crew are passionate about delivering a personable experience that’s a cut above the rest. When selecting a crane service provider, opting for a family-owned and operated business like Lindores Mobile Cranes offers distinct advantages that can significantly enhance your project's success. In this blog, we outline some of the key benefits of working with a family-run company. Personalised Service Family-owned businesses often provide a level of personalised attention that larger corporations may lack. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we take the time to understand each client's unique needs, ensuring tailored solutions that align with specific project requirements. Commitment to Quality and Safety With a family name associated with the business, there's an inherent commitment to maintaining high standards. We prioritise safety and quality in all operations, adhering to strict industry protocols to protect both our clients and team. Flexibility and Responsiveness Family-run operations can adapt quickly to changing project dynamics. Our team at Lindores Mobile Cranes is empowered to make swift decisions, allowing us to respond effectively to unforeseen challenges and keep your project on track. Deep Community Roots Being a family business, we have deep ties to the South East Queensland community. This local presence fosters trust and reliability, as we are invested in the success and development of our area. Long-Term Relationships We value building lasting relationships with our clients. Our family-oriented approach means we strive for repeat business and referrals, motivating us to exceed expectations consistently. Choosing Lindores Mobile Cranes means partnering with a team that offers personalised service, unwavering commitment to quality and safety, and a deep understanding of the local community. Experience the difference that a dedicated family-owned business can bring to your project. Enquire about our cranes today by contacting lmcops@lmcranes.com.au.