The family-owned business specialises in the design and manufacture of innovative machinery used in the commercial and domestic firewood industry.
When David Burder realised 30 years ago that he was splitting 12 tons of firewood with a single axe every winter to keep his home warm, he knew he had to come up with something better.
He used his background in welding and construction, along with his eye for good design, to build an hydraulic machine to do the job for him.
A ‘decent’ amount of common sense saw him make the first pivoting-blade vertical hydraulic wood splitter in the country.
The Superaxe was born.
The vertical configuration — different from others on the market at the time — meant that the operator could stand up straight while working, and an innovative log lifter on the side added to the efficiency and reduced backache from reaching down.
David made the decision to resist cheaper outsourcing once trade markets opened with China and kept all manufacturing in-house.
He said this decision has now become the cornerstone of the company philosophy and is fundamental to its success, longevity and reputation.
“Local manufacturing keeps money in the local economy, supports thirty employees and their families and most importantly keeps integrity in the manufacturing process,” David said.
“The imported machines may be cheaper, but they certainly don’t last very long.
“To say we are ‘Australian Made’ means more than anything.”