Liebherr’s Game of Cranes competition has entered its next stage, with five Australian operators shortlisted to compete in a national showdown in Adelaide, South Australia on September 25.
The global contest, launched earlier this year, is designed to highlight the skill, precision and responsibility required to be a world-class crane operator.
The competition began in April with operators from around the world submitting photos and videos of their work on Liebherr cranes. Entries were judged on technical merit and social media engagement, before a panel of Liebherr experts finalised the shortlist.
Regional finals are now taking place in Australia, the US, Brazil, Spain and Saudi Arabia. The Australian finalists will have to show their dexterity with the Liebherr LTM 1100-5.3 and LTM 1110-5.2 cranes.
The winner will go on to compete in Ehingen, Germany, this November, where they will face three challenges covering safety, dexterity and technical knowledge.
Australia’s top five
Craig Boniface – Universal Cranes
With nearly 30 years in the industry, Craig has worked across Australia and internationally, building expertise on projects from general hire to large-scale mining and gas. Now back on the tools with Universal Cranes, Craig operates a range of Liebherr models and says the brand has consistently proven its reliability. “For me, if it’s Liebherr, it’s the quality you want,” he said.
David Romanous – Transformer Cranes
David’s career began at just 17 and has since grown into running his own company, Transformer Cranes, for more than a decade. Known as a precise and passionate operator, he still enjoys being hands-on with his LTM 1095-5.1 while mentoring younger operators. His company is built on professionalism and community values, with active support for Indigenous business initiatives.
Jess Tuck-Lee – Mudgee Cranes
Starting as a dogger and rigger, Jess has worked her way into crane operation and now manages Mudgee Cranes. She combines hands-on operating with leadership, pushing for better lifting standards and regional industry development through involvement in CICA programs. “Being named a finalist is an incredible opportunity, and I’m honoured to represent Mudgee Cranes at a national level,” she said.
Joey Fisher – Johnson & Young Cranes
From apprentice diesel mechanic to operating one of Australia’s largest Liebherr cranes, Joey’s career spans more than two decades. Today, he’s proud to operate JYC’s 800-tonne Liebherr all-terrain, his favourite machine in the fleet. “I’ve always loved Liebherr,” he said. “To be part of this competition is something special.”
Nick Sputore – Joyce Krane
With 26 years of experience, Nick has progressed from Frannas to some of Liebherr’s heaviest machines, including the LG 1750 and LG 1800. His passion for the brand and commitment to continuous learning have made him a key figure at Joyce Krane, where he’s helped commission and operate some of the most advanced models in Australia.
Eyes on Ehingen
The winner in South Australia will join the international final in Germany later this year, competing for the title of the world’s best mobile crane operator and a share of €4,250 in Liebherr shop vouchers.
For Liebherr, the competition is a way to spotlight a profession often overlooked. As the finalists prepare for the next stage, they carry not just their own experience but also the reputation of Australia’s crane industry onto the global stage.