Channeling Apple Isle Success with Isuzu Trucks

In a state where word of mouth is paramount, Tasmanian businesses thrive by providing top-notch service, reliability, and quality equipment.

This ethos underpins Channel Earthmoving, a Tasmanian success story that employs around 70 locals in earthmoving, wet hire, and bin hire operations. Its diverse fleet of Isuzu trucks continues to drive the company's success.

A Homegrown Success Story

Channel Earthmoving was founded by Malcolm Frost, a local with over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. Growing up in rural Tasmania, Malcolm steadily gained knowledge, skills, and qualifications while working across the Apple Isle and on the mainland.

"We service the construction industry, supplying quality plant and equipment to building and engineering companies, enabling them to complete their projects successfully," Malcolm explained.

“We work across a range of construction projects, from major commercial and government developments to private works—right across the island.”

A Varied Fleet

The company operates a fleet of 15 trucks, including 11 Isuzu models, with another two on order.

“We have a bit of everything here,” Malcolm said.

“Our business needs a variety of trucks, including hook lifts, tippers, tilt trays, and more.”

The Isuzu fleet includes an FYJ 300-350 twin-steer tilt tray, two FXZ 240-350 Autos with tipper bodies, three FVR 165-300 hook-lift trucks, and an NLS 45-150 all-wheel-drive service truck for on-site excavator maintenance.

Additionally, the fleet features several Ready-to-Work N Series and F Series factory tippers, which can go straight from the showroom floor to the worksite.

The FVR models are ideal for hook lift operations, featuring the powerful yet fuel-efficient 6HK1-TCS engine, delivering 221 kW (300 PS) @ 2,400 rpm and a robust 981 Nm @ 1,450 rpm of torque.

Malcolm turns exclusively to Shane Hilder at Webster Trucks Isuzu in Hobart for his transport needs.

“Webster’s build the trucks for us, and when they do, they build them right—you don’t have any dramas,” Malcolm said.

“Just turn the key and go to work. Shane and the team at Webster’s are the best in the business down here, no doubt.”

Reliability is Key

For Malcolm, reliability is just as crucial in his choice of trucks as it is in his business operations.

“In our game, you must be reliable, and your business is only as reliable as your trucks—that’s one of the reasons we stick with Isuzu. They don’t let you down.

“We have an Isuzu that has done over half a million kilometres, and it’s still going strong.”

Channel Earthmoving maintains its fleet in-house, ensuring routine servicing and upkeep to industry-leading standards.

“Our machines are regularly serviced and maintained to the highest standards,” Malcolm said.

For additional parts or overflow servicing, the company always turns to Webster Trucks.

“They’re always there for us. They’re a great team,” Malcolm added.

Safety First

Given the nature of the work, safety is paramount, and Malcolm affirms that Isuzu trucks meet all requirements.

“We work with a lot of councils and the State Government, so the trucks have to tick all the boxes in terms of safety, which Isuzu trucks do,” he said.

“We also want the safest trucks for our drivers and other road users. Isuzu trucks are class leaders in safety—that’s another reason we stick with them.”

A Statewide Presence

Operating from new premises in Kingston, Channel Earthmoving provides services across Tasmania.

“Our trucks do a lot of kilometres all over the state, so they need to be reliable, comfortable, and safe,” Malcolm said.

“We’ve tried a few other brands over the years, but the Isuzus are just good, honest trucks, and we’ll keep going back to them.

“We stick with Isuzu now, and we’ll continue to do so,” he concluded.

For a great deal on financing your new purchase, contact Australia's best reviewed finance broker on 1300 EFTEAM (1300 338 326) today or visit CreditOne.com.au