Digging deep with Kobelco

From the smallest jobs to the biggest projects, Queensland business D&K Earthworks relies on the blue beasts to ensure the tasks are carried out to perfection.

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Like all good success stories, it started with an ambition and a dare to dream.

David Stalling grew up operating machines with his uncle since he could walk and has been working in the earthmoving industry since he was 16.

In 2010, with the itch to run his own earthmoving business needing to be scratched, Dave persuaded now-wife Karlee to team up in the venture, and they secured finance for a dozer.

Although still working as a plant operator, Dave carried out his side jobs during his free time and over weekends, gradually growing his clientele and reputation.

With enough support garnered, the day finally came when he could ditch the hardhat and was able to work for himself full-time. And thus D&K Earthworks was born, based in the rural Queensland township of Stanthorpe, and which provides both civil and agricultural services.

"Anything from car parks and sub-divisions to large scale levelling and water storage construction for large growers," Dave said.

Dave serves as the director of the company, responsible for job scheduling, crew organisation and machinery timetabling as well as quality management and plant operating.

Karlee is the business manager and oversees HR, OHS, administration and finance as well as helping out in the workshop and on-site when needed.

"Our local area is where our typical clients are; they are mainly local growers," Dave said.

Indeed, when Earthmoving Equipment Magazine visited the Stallings, they were flat out building drains and tunnels for strawberries as part of a hydroponics project.

"We have also had contracts north of Brisbane, as far up as Bundaberg. We are interested in increasing our clientele to include local government and private civil works," Dave said.

To grow the business and carry out major projects efficiently, Dave realises full well the importance of running a well-maintained fleet of efficient machinery.