Hitachi excavators form the backbone of civil works business Spencer Civil & Earthworks (SCE) , driving precision, comfort, and productivity across long-haul shifts.
Founded in 2022, it has carved out a reputation for reliability and consistent delivery across Australia. Although based in South East Queensland, SCE takes on tasks beyond state boundaries, often involved in interstate work in New South Wales and the Northern Territory.
The company’s scope is broad and technically demanding, delivering:
- Stormwater drainage and hydraulic systems;
- sewer and water live connections;
- road construction;
- bulk and detailed earthworks;
- concrete formwork;
- material and heavy haulage; and
- site management.
Initially operating under plant and labour hire agreements, SCE has transitioned into managing its own contracts, an evolution that reflects confidence and capability within the team.
For the company director Lochlan Spencer, this progression was always the goal.
After nearly a decade in the civil industry — starting as a labourer, advancing to pipe-laying, machine operation, and eventually foreman roles — he launched the company in pursuit of greater responsibility and control. What followed was rapid growth, driven by long hours, calculated risk-taking, and a clear vision.
Lochlan said that despite its youthful workforce, SCE prides itself on expertise.
“The company’s operators and ground staff bring strong technical skills and a shared passion for civil construction. This combination has allowed the business to deliver consistently high-quality work while expanding its operational footprint,” he said.
“Today, SCE runs a fleet of 20 machines and 18 utes, including excavators, dozers, graders, trucks, and Posi-Tracks. This fleet underpins the company’s ability to manage diverse projects efficiently and independently.”
The Hitachi difference
A feature of SCE’s growth has been its relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery. Of the company’s fleet, eight machines are Hitachi excavators: “a little ZX26, a ZX55, two ZX135s, a ZX225, a ZX260, a ZX345 and a ZX360,” Lochlan said.
These machines are not just tools but central to how SCE operates.
Lochlan said for operators, two Hitachi qualities stand out above all.
“Firstly, Hitachi machines provide the strength needed for demanding excavation, trenching, and earthmoving tasks,” he said.
“Then there’s comfort. With operators often spending more than 10 hours in the cab, ergonomic design and in-cab features make a difference. One of my operators refers to the ZX345 cab as a lounge chair.”
The smooth controls and operator-friendly design also enhance productivity, allowing crews to work efficiently and with precision.
From a business perspective, reliability is critical. Downtime in civil construction can halt projects, so dependable machinery is essential.
Hitachi machines deliver consistent performance under heavy workloads, strong safety features that protect operators, and reduced risk of costly interruptions.
For Lochlan, this reliability translates into peace of mind for project delivery and for the safety of his team.
He said he used the excavators across every aspect of SCE’s operations.
“This includes trenching, laying pipes, bulk and detailed earthworks, road construction, batters and placing rock for erosion control, loading trucks, or even material shipments we receive,” he said. “Their adaptability makes them indispensable across the company’s diverse project portfolio.”
Hitachi was not Lochlan’s first choice when purchasing a new excavator. Early in the company’s life, after securing a large contract with BMD Construction in the Northern Territory, Spencer set out to invest in a 35-tonne machine.
“Initial experiences with other manufacturers were discouraging, as I was dismissed or not taken seriously,” he said. “That changed after a recommendation from Tyler Hawkeswood, now SCE’s plant coordinator, who strongly advocated for Hitachi.
“A visit to Hitachi’s Wacol facility proved pivotal. There, we were welcomed and supported by Chris Batson, who provided a comprehensive introduction to the brand, its operations, and its equipment.”
Shortly after, sales representative Anthony Smith visited Lochlan on site, and the company purchased its first new Hitachi excavator, a ZX360LC-7. That decision marked the beginning of a long-term partnership.
Dealer support
In construction, machinery is only as valuable as the support behind it. For SCE, the relationship with Hitachi’s dealership has been a cornerstone of success.
The Wacol-based team provides fast access to service kits and replacement parts, reliable technical support, and clear and consistent communication.
“As well, they provide ongoing assistance with new equipment purchases,” Lochlan said.
“Responsiveness is key. When we call, the dealer answers and acts quickly. This level of service ensures minimal downtime and keeps projects moving.
“It’s a relationship built on trust, something we value highly after early experiences elsewhere in the market.
“Since buying that 360, I have never considered going anywhere else. I love operating them now and on the rare occasion I have to use a hire machine or one that isn’t Hitachi, I am reminded why I like them so much.”
Global stage
The strength of the Hitachi partnership extends beyond local support. Lochlan said his recent visit to CONEXPO 2026 in the US offered a glimpse into the company’s global culture.
“The Hitachi exhibit stood out for its design and attention to detail, but it was the people that left the strongest impression,” he said.
“At a company event, Hitachi President Toshiaki Tokunaga personally greeted attendees, shaking hands with every individual present.
“This moment reinforced a key belief: that Hitachi’s values of respect, service, and commitment are consistent at every level, from local dealerships to global leadership.”
