Proud Queensland family company is a crucial specialist engineering supplier to rail authorities
A second-generation family business based in Narangba, Queensland, Steelrod Pty Ltd is a leading specialist engineering supplier to rail authorities and mining companies throughout Australasia and selected export regions.
Founded in 1974 by Doug Veneris and celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, the company continues to expand and is now run by sons Damian and Shawn Veneris as joint Managing Directors. Damian is a qualified boiler maker, and Shawn specialises in the commercial side of the business. Today, the company employs a highly skilled team of more than 55 experienced personnel.
Based on the strongest foundations built on quality engineering excellence and delivery performance across a diverse range of engineering capabilities and complex industrial projects, Steelrod has continued to invest in modern state-of-the-art high-end machining centres and has kept abreast of cutting-edge technological developments.
In 2008, Steelrod commissioned its first Okuma Double Column machining centre, replacing an older alternate machine. In June this year, it commissioned a second Okuma Double Column machining centre, MCR-A5CII 20×40 with OSP P300MA Control, based on the earlier machine’s performance and reliability, the factory service backup, user-friendly controls and training provided, and the speed and increased capabilities of the new model. These sophisticated machines cater to large rail components such as rail point machines, chassis for train bogies, and large mining components.
“The new Okuma Double Column machine has reduced our machining time due to its very high speed, amazing accuracy and universal three heads which has resulted in much improved set up times and flexibility and was the brand of choice for us,” said General Manager & Director, Damian Veneris. “We generally buy one of more machines a year to keep abreast of technology developments, and this has a direct impact on the company’s performance and our ability to attract and retain apprentices and skilled operators who seek to work on the latest machines to advance their skills and keep abreast of advances in technology,” he said.
As a specialist, the company offers a comprehensive range of engineering services that meet the highest level of industry standards in Track and Signal engineering, CNC machining, and fabrication. The extensive operations include welding, fabrication, assembly, hard chroming, heat treatment and painting for Track & Signal equipment for Rail Authorities throughout Australia, Mining Equipment and Construction including Bridges and Wharf infrastructure, plus Aftermarket Automotive Products.
Apprenticeship technical training plays an important part of the company’s strategic planning. Six to eight apprentices are under training at any one time, and the company achieves a high retention rate after such training is completed.
As can be expected in such a quality manufacturer, the company is fully accredited to ISO 9001:2015 and has a continuous improvement policy in quality systems, with the customers central to all it does. It is also committed to implementing a comprehensive OHS & S Management System.
Today, the company’s markets cover Rail and Rail Infrastructure, Mining, Automotive, and General Engineering, with the bulk of work coming from long-standing clients and word-of-mouth referrals. In general terms, Steelrod’s markets are Queensland (30%), Mainland Australia (60%), and export (10%).
The company has several new projects coming up, particularly in the Queensland infrastructure areas, where some are scheduled to commence in the coming months.
Looking to cater to increased demand and free up space for additional machining centres and equipment in the future, the factory has just completed an 800-square-metre extension.
Steelrod Pty Ltd is a company celebrating 50 years and looking positively ahead to the next 50 years through sound business practices and investments in people and advanced technology.
“It is always a pleasure to work with Steelrod,” said Okuma Queensland Branch Manager John Baker. “With the Queensland Okuma team completing the installation of the second Double Column machine to the company’s facility, this has further strengthened our relationship,” he said.