*Before Reading: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website article may contain images of deceased persons in photographs.
Conplant and DEUTZ form a heavenly partnership, sharing versatility, multi-talents, a sense of adventure, and a deep commitment to the environment.
Established in 1961, Conplant stands as Australia’s largest compaction specialist, boasting a hire fleet of 1000 units. Having enjoyed a long-standing association, Conplant recently became an official dealer for DEUTZ.
Ian Coleman, the Managing Director of Conplant, joined the business back in 1985 as an apprentice Plant Mechanic. Known for its vibrant yellow branding, Conplant shares DEUTZ’s dedication to safety and environmental consciousness. Furthermore, it actively supports charities and advocates for Indigenous Australians through a partnership with Gear Select, an Aboriginal-owned finance company.
“Several hundred of our new machines were funded through Gear Select,” Ian reveals. “Gear Select holds a strong social focus, providing pathways for young Indigenous individuals to enter the finance and construction sectors.”
Conplant has been recognised with awards for its exceptional service and maintains an impressive customer satisfaction rating of 98 percent. The company embraces and develops the latest technologies, holding third-party certifications for ISO standards in quality, safety, and environmental practices.
For decades, Conplant has relied on DEUTZ engines within its fleet, consistently impressed by their reliability and quality. In recent times, Conplant made a significant investment in hundreds of machines equipped with DEUTZ’s latest US EPA Tier 4 engines. These engines not only offer environmental benefits but also substantial fuel cost savings.
“We acquire new engines, parts, support, technical equipment, and technical training,” Ian explains. “DEUTZ engines have always proven reliable and fit for purpose. When you can save the environment, fuel, and money simultaneously, the value proposition becomes undeniable.”
Ian describes the partnership with DEUTZ as a natural progression, stating, “We selected DEUTZ US EPA Tier 4 engines for our recent investment to future-proof our fleet.”
Conplant’s hire fleet comprises long-term assets, and while Australian regulations may not mandate the purchase of Tier 4 machines, most government procurement policies align with global best practices.
“I take pride in our role as leaders, driving positive environmental change alongside fuel cost savings for our customers. It’s a win-win situation,” Ian says.
As an official dealer, Conplant is better positioned to provide comprehensive “bumper-to-bumper” service to its customers. The team underwent extensive training, with some members even spending ten days in Germany with DEUTZ. Notably, National Service Manager Dary Samadi previously worked for DEUTZ in Iran early in his career.
Ian commends DEUTZ for its exceptional approach, stating, “Our team that travelled to Germany was astounded by DEUTZ’s history and their passion, leaving no doubt that they were impressed. So far, everything has been fantastic.”
Prior to his tenure at Conplant, Ian pursued his passion for music, playing guitar in a band that supported renowned acts such as a Led Zeppelin tribute band called Gold Zeppelin and Johnny Diesel and the Injectors.
Currently, Ian finds joy in watching his four young boys participate in sports, as well as indulging in flying planes and occasionally taking the leap out of them.
“I’m in the process of completing my private pilot’s licence for fixed-wing aircraft, so flying and studying are part of my leisure time,” he shares.
Though life may be bustling, Ian remains committed to exploring new interests. He has skydived on several occasions with his eldest sons, Evan and Thomas, including one memorable dive alongside their grandfather.
“We had three generations jump out of the same plane,” Ian fondly recalls. “Pushing personal boundaries and taking risks are essential aspects of personal growth, life, and business.”
