HSR Southern Cross has toiled with hearts and hands to set benchmarks in the waste equipment sector. Now, the stars have aligned as the Australian-owned company lays out an ambitious roadmap to expansion.
Effective waste management is a crucial aspect of any operation, regardless of size. Providing tailored waste solutions has been the driving force behind HSR Southern Cross since its inception in 2002.
Founder Martyn Cross recognised the need for a company that not only delivered top-notch products and services but prioritised customer satisfaction and innovation.
More than two decades later, his vision to create a dynamic organisation that could redefine the standards of waste industry service and manufacturing has come to life and is on the cusp of expansion.
Jake Henderson, National General Manager of Sales and Business Development, says HSR Southern Cross has built a foundation rooted in quality, reliability, and a passion for waste equipment manufacturing excellence. A commitment to these principles has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success.
“The founding principles not only shaped the company’s identity but continue to guide its operations,” Jake says. “Staying ahead of industry trends and customer expectations has positioned HSR Southern Cross as a trusted name in the waste equipment sector.”
The family-owned business in Western Sydney is an Australian-owned and certified manufacturer of hook loaders, skip loaders, tarping systems, and rear-load refuge compactors. With more than 120 years of combined knowledge in engineering, design, and manufacture, it offers a national network of distributors and approved service partners from the Pilbara to Launceston and everywhere in between.
It caters to a diverse range of businesses and organisations – from waste management companies to municipal councils and commercial enterprises involved in waste collection and disposal – that rely on efficient truck-mounted waste equipment.
Jake says understanding that waste management demands vary across industries and sectors allows HSR to serve both public and private sector clients. The company has collaborated with businesses of different scales, from small enterprises to large corporations. And because its products and solutions cater to the specific needs of each customer, each piece of equipment meets the stringent requirements of various applications.
He says lasting relationships have been built with a broad spectrum of clients because of HSR’s commitment to providing tailored solutions and exceptional customer service.
“We understand that our success is intrinsically linked to the satisfaction of our clients,” Jake says. “Therefore, we go above and beyond to provide exceptional support, ensuring that every customer interaction with HSR is marked by professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine commitment to their needs.”
Meeting those needs and manufacturing equipment that stands up to Australia’s harsh conditions means a continual process of refinement. HSR doesn’t rest on its laurels but actively seeks ways to enhance its products and services.
Jake says the expert team takes pride in offering truck-mounted waste equipment that is 100 per cent Australian-made and designed. This ensures a level of quality and reflects a dedication to precision and craftsmanship. It also means clients benefit from cutting-edge solutions that reflect the latest advancements in the industry.
“We don’t just meet standards; we set them,” he says. “We are consistently pushing the boundaries to set new benchmarks in the industry.
“HSR’s products are not just solutions; they are tailored responses to the dynamic and evolving needs of our customers in the waste management industry.”
Turnkey solutions
Responding to industry needs has resulted in a dynamic partnership between HSR and Wagga Isuzu. Over the past three years, this partnership has filled a gap in the market and left an indelible mark on the industry, selling more than 140 vehicles to customers across Australia.
Luke Harris, Isuzu Trucks Sales Manager, says by pooling their resources and knowledge, Wagga Motors and HSR have provided the market with a turnkey solution for waste vehicles.
This approach meant that customers no longer had to endure lengthy waiting periods or navigate the complexities of piecemeal solutions. Instead, they could turn to Wagga Motors and HSR to deliver fully assembled, ready-to-use waste vehicles promptly and efficiently.
What sets the collaboration apart, Luke says, is its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
“Recognising the inherent challenges faced by businesses in the waste management sector, Wagga Motors and HSR sought to alleviate these burdens by offering a one-stop service,” he says. “From procurement to customisation, from assembly to delivery, every step of the process is seamlessly integrated, ensuring a hassle-free customer experience.
“Moreover, the benefits extend beyond convenience. The competitive pricing offered by Wagga Motors and HSR makes quality waste vehicles accessible to a wider range of businesses. By prioritising affordability without compromising on quality, they have democratised access to essential equipment, empowering businesses of all sizes to enhance their operations effectively.”
Looking ahead, Luke says the future appears bright for Wagga Motors and HSR. Buoyed by their shared successes and fuelled by a pursuit of excellence, they remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and redefining service standards in the waste management sector.
“One thing remains certain: wherever there are challenges, opportunities, and a need for innovative solutions, Wagga Motors and HSR will be at the forefront, driving progress and transforming industries.”
Driving progress
The waste management industry has undergone significant transformations over the years. Smart waste management, sustainability and recycling initiatives, circular economy practices and alternative waste-to-energy solutions are all on the radar.
The regulatory environment continues to evolve. HSR works with regulatory bodies to stay informed of changes and ensure its products comply with the latest industry standards.
Customer needs and preferences are more diverse and specialised. Recognising the importance of customisation, HSR products are designed to be highly adaptable.
Jake says that the need for skilled personnel has also become crucial as the industry changes. In response, HSR has expanded its commitment to customer support and training programs. It offers comprehensive training for its customers’ teams, providing the necessary skills to operate and maintain equipment effectively.
“Our adaptability is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers and the dynamic challenges of the waste management sector,” he says.
And when it comes to challenges, there have been a few that have pushed the boundaries in terms of schedule and ability.
In the instance of tight deadlines, the company has optimised its production processes. It has also worked closely with the customer to meet delivery deadlines without compromising quality.
This is one area where the partnership with Wagga Motors plays an active role.
“Luke’s ability to source a chassis at the drop of a hat gives us the ability to achieve great results with tight schedules,” Jake says. “This is a win-win relationship for both parties and one that will continue for a long time.”
Some customers have requested technical requirements that demand specialised engineering solutions. HSR leverages in-house expertise to develop custom solutions.
“In each of these scenarios, our approach has been rooted in collaboration and a deep understanding of our customers’ needs,” Jake says. “We actively engage with our clients throughout the process, ensuring that their feedback is incorporated and that the final product not only meets but exceeds their expectations.”
Customer satisfaction
Mitchell Palmer is the Co-Chief Operations Officer of Aussie Industries, a family-owned business that specialises in skip bin hire across Greater Sydney.
The company boasts a fleet of more than 4500 skip bins and 85 vehicles. The latest acquisition, two HSR -SX 85 (Isuzu FSR 4×2) skip loaders, will be used to navigate tight spaces within the inner Sydney area.
Mitchell says selecting the HSR truck was a straightforward decision. It was the standout choice upon comparison, offering a two-year structural warranty, reinforced large bin stops that ensure team safety during operations but also safeguard the truck cabin, and strategically installed cylinder covers that provide additional protection for crucial lift and extension mechanisms.
But what drew them to HSR was aligning with Aussie Industries’ values and priorities – being Australian-owned and operated, committed to quality products, and investing in local talent to support communities.
“We’ve engaged HSR’s expertise on multiple occasions, specifically for hydraulic servicing and tarping systems support, including some challenges where other body manufacturers no longer provided parts or service,” Mitchell says.
“In each instance, the HSR team has exceeded our expectations, demonstrating unparalleled dedication to ensuring quick problem resolutions and keeping our fleet on the road.
“Their commitment and proactive approach to addressing our needs have been instrumental in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of our operations. It’s a partnership we deeply value and one that continues to foster mutual success.”
Looking ahead
What does future success look like?
HSR has a strategic roadmap to fortify its market presence over the next decade. There are plans to expand the sales team and establish service and fitting facilities nationwide to bolster the company’s outreach and strengthen customer relations. Jake says this geographical diversification will ensure that every customer, regardless of location, receives dedicated and confident service and product support, fostering stronger connections and trust.
HSR is gearing up for the introduction of innovative compaction bodies, broadening its product range to cater to an even wider spectrum of waste management needs. It’s also dedicated to ongoing improvement and augmentation of existing product offerings with a commitment to incorporating technological advancements, refining designs and responding to emerging industry trends.
The goal is to provide products that set benchmarks in efficiency and reliability. That will involve investment in research and development.
“This initiative aims to foster innovation, explore new technologies, and stay ahead of the curve in anticipating and addressing the evolving needs of the waste management sector,” Jake says.
“We have ambitious goals that reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and industry leadership.
“In 10 years, we aspire to see HSR as a nationally recognised and influential player in the waste management sector, setting new standards for excellence and sustainability.”
For more information, visit: www.hsrsx.com.au
