Tasmanian-based sand mining company RNB Trading is a long-time user of Komatsu equipment, having purchased its first Komatsu unit, a WA200-1 in 1986.

The company now owns a WA300-1 standby loader with over 17,000 hours, and an engine that has never been touched, plus a WA420-1 and a WA430-6.

The family owned company gets its name from the first names of the Barry Palmer's sons – Roger, Nicholas (Nic) and Ben.

"Our involvement in sand mining commenced in about 1970 as part of our interstate transport company Palmer Searoad based in Hobart", said managing director Barry Palmer. "Producing sand for concrete and asphalt for Southern Tasmania was retained as a family interest after the takeover of the transport business in 1979".

Pioneer Concrete (now Hanson) who had their concrete plant next door to our Hobart transport terminal engaged our cartage services. They became our first supply customer after we established a sand resource at their prompting. We are now the major supplier in the region.

In 2009 RNB commenced a new operation at Llanherne 13 kilometres from Hobart with a predicted life of 50 years at current production levels.

"The demanding Environment Permit conditions are largely to repair damage caused by previous unrestricted farming and pine plantation activities," said Barry.

General Manager Nicholas (Nic) Palmer said, "Our Integrated Management System (IMS) is certified for Quality (ISO 9001), Occupational Health and Safety (AS 4801) and sustainable Environment management (ISO 14001) as a basis whereby we can expect to reliably supply our customers over the long term."

Image:  Barry Palmer with the W300-1

Source www.getmachinery.com.au