Introduction

Brett Harvey is the driving force behind our rail operations, working closely with branches across Australia in Rutherford, Crestmead, Melbourne and Perth, and also in New Zealand. As the Rail Operations Product Specialist, Brett plays a pivotal role in shaping our rail equipment solutions and supporting projects of every scale across Australia. Known for his technical equipment expertise and practical knowledge from roles in rail infrastructure construction operations, Brett works closely with Tier 1 contractors, various subcontractors and Rail Infrastructure Managers.

Career Journey

Brett was headhunted for his extensive experience in rail operations and equipment hire at a time when we started developing a rail department that could effectively service our nationwide network. His objective was to establish and grow the division, and over the past nine years he has succeeded in transforming the company’s rail capabilities by building an industry-leading rail solutions team and comprehensive range of equipment and services.

Brett’s journey in the industry was inspired by his father-in-law, who contributed significantly to the rail sector. He started his career with Barclay Mowlem, gaining hands-on experience in civil works and track construction before transitioning into the equipment hire business. 

Areas of Expertise

Brett specialises in providing innovative rail equipment and delivering complete project solutions across Australia. His expertise covers:

• New track construction and track renovations (50/50 split).
• Projects across government-owned and private rail networks, including nation building infrastructure projects and mining operations.
• Delivering solutions across all Australian states and territories in urban and regional environments.
• Collaborating directly with Tier 1 contractors, subcontractors and Rail Infrastructure Managers.
• Introducing cutting-edge technologies, battery and solar powered track machinery and high efficiency and safety equipment.

Customer Impact

One of Brett’s most memorable achievements was sourcing a highly specialised rail threader for a client working on the Melbourne Metro tunnel project. The machine’s ability to set rails for itself as it progressed through the tunnel resolved significant access issues, making it an ideal solution for the challenging conditions. Brett says, “We worked with the construction contractor to identify the advanced equipment needed and then we sourced it from Europe where it had been proven in the field.”

Brett thrives on the variety of our rail projects, which take him from bustling metropolitan corridors in Sydney to remote tracks in the Pilbara. He enjoys the challenge of coordinating complex logistics, such as organising an equipment consignment from Rutherford to Paraburdoo, almost 5,000 kilometres across the country, and relishes being part of projects that range from short weekend shutdowns to multi-year national infrastructure programs like Inland Rail. "I enjoy the challenge of solving complex rail logistics problems, such as track bridges, tunnels and culverts, and working with clients to develop solutions.”

The Peron Behind the Pro

Brett values our supportive and family-oriented culture, describing the 20-person rail team as close-knit and highly collaborative. He speaks with colleagues in other rail offices multiple times each day, working together to deliver solutions that require interstate branches to work together. “With rail projects being developed in urban and remote areas around the country, constant communication between our team is essential to coordinate the right equipment to any location.” 

Outside of work, Brett enjoys fishing on the NSW Central. While he is highly skilled in managing advanced rail construction equipment, many are surprised to learn that Brett can also crutch sheep, one of a range of sheep farming skills he picked up from time spent on his family’s farm.

“You can’t unsay what has been said.” Brett lives by this personal motto, staying true to his word in both his professional and personal life.