Every major project depends on reliable machines. For Spark, working on Melbourne’s North East Link, that reliability has come in the form of three Franna MAC25 cranes. More than a year after they arrived, the cranes are proving themselves as efficient all-rounders, backed by new safety systems that are setting benchmarks on site.
The cranes were purchased early in 2023, with the first arriving in October and the other two soon after in November and December. Spread across the project’s three main zones – the northern tunnel entrance, the southern exit, and a central position – they’ve been used in both surface and underground work.
“All three cranes were bought for general lifting duties, whether it’s moving rubbish bins, jersey barriers, unloading trucks, precast installs or assisting larger cranes with set ups,” said Steve Lonsdale, Lift Supervisor on the Spark North East Link. “They’ve been worked hard from the start and continue to do what’s asked of them.”
Flexibility has been critical, particularly on the tunnel sections. “The new machines were specced for underground use as well,” Steve said. “If required, they can be driven into the tunnel entrances or lifted down into the box sections, which gives us options across the whole job.”
Why Franna?
Spark’s decision to go with Franna came after extensive discussions at management level. While other options were available, Steve said the Franna MAC25 stood out because of its proven track record and the upgrades introduced in the latest models.
“The Franna MAC25 has been around since the late ’90s, and it’s proven itself over time,” he said. “What set these new machines apart were the upgrades – the radar system, the Robway computer, the 360-degree cameras, and safety systems like GoUpSafely and Protective Shield.”
Each of the units purchased by Spark includes the Superlift upgrade and Franna’s Safety Radar, which monitors slope and load angles. “The radar system is excellent, especially when the machine is working on a side slope,” Steve said.
Built-in safety
Spark also ensured the cranes were fitted with additional protective systems. Fire suppression was mandatory for underground work, and all three machines were equipped accordingly.
“There’s a big button in the cab, which we hope never gets used,” Steve said. “But if there’s a fire, the system isolates the machine instantly. It’s simple but effective.”
The team has also incorporated new technology to prevent on-site accidents. Alongside the GoUpSafely system, which prevents potential electrocution, and Protective Shield, which reduces the risk of striking an above structure during lifts, Spark has added the Halo system – a visual aid projecting a red exclusion zone around the rear of the crane to highlight the ‘swing’ area of the crane.
“It’s about making sure people stay out of that danger zone,” Steve said. “Again, it’s another first, something no one else has done before, and it’s proving very effective.”
Operator confidence
With many experienced operators on site, the introduction of the new Frannas was seamless.
“The operators have been very comfortable with them,” Steve said. “It’s not like moving into a completely different type of crane. The seating, steering, and feel of the machine are familiar, so the transition was smooth.”
That ease of use, combined with the safety technology, has meant the cranes have been well received by crews across the project.
Service and support
According to Steve, one of the strongest aspects of the purchase has been the ongoing support from Franna’s team. Robin Ghosh and the tech support from Terex Brisbane has been fantastic.
“The relationship with Terex in Melbourne is brilliant – 10 out of 10,” he said. “We’re coming up to two years with these cranes, and the backup service has been exceptional.”
He credited Service Manager Andrew Howe, along with fitters Aaron and Sammy, for their responsiveness.
“Whether we take the machines to them for major servicing, or they come out to site, it’s never been a drama. We’ve never had to run the cranes overdue for service – it’s always been top of mind. And the Terex workshop crew including Leanne in admin, keep everything running smoothly.”
For Steve and Spark, the investment in both proven machines and innovative safety features has made a clear difference on a project of this scale.
“On any site, the danger is always there. But with the systems we’ve got now – radar, cameras, Protective Shield, GoUpSafely, and the Halo – we’ve added layers of protection that weren’t available a few years ago. That’s important when you’re working in tunnels and on a job of this size.”
As one of Australia’s largest road projects continues to take shape, Spark’s approach underlines a simple lesson: when safety and performance go hand in hand, everyone benefits.