North East Victorian manufacturing company Whitlands Engineering is celebrating its 31st year of business throughout 2024 – marking over three decades of continuous growth despite the challenges facing regional business.
The company designs and manufactures Australasia’s leading brands of log splitters and firewood processors – Superaxe and Rex. Beginning with the famed Superaxe in 1993, David Burder (now head designer and CEO) had the design ready to go but no experience running a business but persevered with remarkable success.
Through exposure at local field days, word of mouth and a truly innovative product, Whitlands Engineering expanded despite challenges from the globalization of manufacturing. The Wandin Silvan Field Days have been an important event for the business over the years, David and the team have been attending for years – it always draws great crowds and good sales.
David is committed to employing local people and manufacturing in a regional area. Despite the temptation for cheaper production overseas, this decision has now become the cornerstone of the company philosophy and is fundamental to its success, longevity and reputation. David says ‘local manufacturing keeps money in the local economy, supports our employees and their families and most importantly keeps integrity in the manufacturing process. The imported machines may be cheaper, but they certainly don’t last very long’.
The other ingredient in their success is innovative design and benchmark manufacturing standards. They’re truly made to last. Beyond that, ergonomic design is key, making the backbreaking task of splitting wood simple and comfortable – the operator always has a straight back and lifting is eliminated with hydraulic log lifters fitted as standard. The Superaxe has certainly proven itself over 30 years as Australia’s leading log splitter, setting new standards in performance, design and safety innovation.
The Superaxe range now includes three models. All models feature the patented sliding blade, ergonomic bench height, the highest quality power packs (Honda is fitted standard), log lifter and heavy-duty construction – all covered by two-year warranty. The WS150 is the smaller model, with options for a 6 or 9hp engine, a cable and pulley operated log lifter, double handed controls and a large bench. This model is ideal for farms but is also the machine of choice for Australian and New Zealand hire companies. The WS3150 is a step up – with a 9 or 13hp engine option (nine and seven second cycle time respectively), larger bench and hydraulic log lifter. It can be fitted with a three-meter fold out elevator for stockpiling. The WS4150 is the largest and fastest machine, fitted standard with an 18hp Vanguard. Options on this machine include various elevators or alternate blade configurations.
For more information, free call 1800 702 701 or visit the website superaxe.com.au
