CEA’s strategic expansion has aligned with state-backed growth in central Queensland.

Central Queensland is entering an exciting phase of expansion, with public and private investment underlining the region’s vital role in Australia’s resources and industrial sectors.

For CEA, a leading provider of equipment in the mining, agriculture, construction, earthmoving, infrastructure, defence and recycling industries, this momentum has created the perfect opportunity to strengthen its local presence.

In July, the company officially acquired two new branches in Rockhampton and Mackay, formerly operating under Terrequipe. The acquisition and rebranding broaden CEA’s footprint across central Queensland and enhance its ability to support key industries in metropolitan and regional areas.

The Rockhampton and Mackay branches now form part of CEA’s northern region, with Brisbane-based operations providing guidance to help ensure a seamless transition for the retained staff.

“The expansion into Rockhampton and Mackay is an exciting move for CEA,” CEA executive general manager northern region Wes Henshall said. “It’s a testament to our focus on growing the business and our dedication to working with customers across industry segments we know well and are highly proficient in supporting.

“We are also pleased to welcome the experienced teams at these locations into the CEA business and look forward to strengthening our relationships while providing exceptional service to customers within the region.”

CEA chief executive officer Hylton Taylor said the decision to expand into Rockhampton and Mackay reflects the company’s long-term vision for growth and its commitment to being closer to customers in critical regions.

“By integrating these additional branches into the business, we are not only expanding our footprint; we are reinforcing our position to deliver superior service, comprehensive after-sales support, and to be a reliable partner for customers within the agriculture, construction, mining and earthmoving industries,” he said.

“We are confident that this move will create new opportunities and further solidify our position as an industry leader.”

The company has received extremely positive feedback from the market since announcing the acquisition.

“With over 45-plus years of industry experience we are confident our business understands the market requirements, and how best to meet the evolving demands of the customer base going forward,” Taylor said.

CEA’s expansion aligns with a landmark Queensland Government announcement in November, when Premier David Crisafulli secured international investment in the Bowen Basin.

Argo Queensland’s acquisition of a 70 per cent stake in Fitzroy Australia Resources will help to ensure the long-term future of more than 1000 workers, contractors and suppliers, highlighting confidence in the state’s coal sector.

“This historic investment sends a powerful message: Queensland is open for business and ready to partner with those who back our state,” Crisafulli said.

For CEA, the government-backed investment reinforces the importance of a strong local presence to support central Queensland’s growing mining and resources activity.

By combining local knowledge with a broad product range and robust after-sales support, CEA is well positioned to meet customers’ evolving demands. The Rockhampton and Mackay branches also allow the company to provide tailored service while retaining the expertise of the teams inherited from Terrequipe, ensuring continuity for clients.

By embedding itself more deeply in the region, CEA is not only expanding its footprint; it is reinforcing its role as a trusted partner for industries that underpin central Queensland’s economy.

The company’s enhanced presence will help to make sure customers can access expertise and equipment close to home, strengthening the foundation for long-term growth. 

This feature appeared in the February issue of Australian Mining magazine.