LEARNING ON THE MOVE
By Marcus Rigney
In 2025, Load 28 has been learning on the move. We have had to be agile, flexible and open to criticism, adopting a mindset of continuous improvement, seeking out new knowledge and skills; even ones we thought we had already mastered.
Creativity and innovation have become crucial, alongside platforms that foster rapid learning and communication among our team members. Most importantly, we have had to accept mistakes as an important part of this process.
We have navigated significant challenges, testing the resilience and adaptability of the business. With a thriving construction sector driving heightened demand for cranage, our operations continued to face increasing pressure.
- As the industry continues to grapple with labour shortages, finding and retaining skilled operators and riggers has been a major obstacle.
- Managing complex site logistics, particularly with our increased workload on tier one government projects, has tested our capabilities.
- Stringent enforcement from SafeWork SA leading to heightened scrutiny on safety compliance and risk management has meant zero tolerance for errors.
- Balancing ambitious infrastructure goals with fluctuating economic conditions has necessitated a stronger emphasis on new technologies and innovative practices.
Navigating these demands has not been easy, particularly while managing a transitional phase in the business that has propelled Load 28 to the forefront of tower crane operations in South Australia.
Exploring new methods has been crucial for maintaining our competitive edge, even if not every attempt has yielded immediate results. Nonetheless, this process has served as a catalyst for growth within our business, and as 2026 approaches, Load 28 has emerged stronger and more competitive than ever before.
However, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that the pressure of this year has left both my team and me feeling battle-weary, and with the holiday season on the horizon, we find ourselves caught in a whirlwind of year-end responsibilities and pressing deadlines. There is a surge in activity as we strive to wrap up projects before the year’s end. This makes it challenging to step away from work, as we feel compelled to push through in order to meet expectations and maintain productivity. Every minute feels accounted for.
As a business owner and leader, the festive season feels daunting. The desire to kick off the new year on strong footing makes it seem nearly impossible for me to truly disconnect. The temptation to work throughout the holidays is overwhelming, whether it involves preparing for upcoming projects, strategising for future initiatives, or simply staying ahead of the competition. There’s a strong urge to make this time productive.
However, amidst all the chaos, it’s crucial to remember the most valuable gift I can offer my loved ones during this holiday season is the gift of my presence. Something they’ve experienced very little of this year with the business demanding long and arduous work hours.
Being present with my family during the holidays always provides me the opportunity to reflect on my blessings and appreciate the people in my life that support and care for me.
I always find this shift in perspective incredibly grounding, a reminder of what truly matters and why I get up every morning and do what I do. It demonstrates to my family that they are a priority, despite my busy schedule, and allows me to take a break from the demands of the business to decompress and recharge.
Additionally, the hustle and bustle of the business world often leaves little room for introspection. The Christmas period provides me the chance to reflect on the past year’s achievements.
Some of 2025’s highlights include:
- The successful roll-out of our NCompass strategy: Load 28 has erected over half the record number of tower cranes currently in operation in South Australia and has increased its presence in the hoist market.
- Innovation and Investment in New Technology: We take particular pride in our initiative to incorporate Remote Cabin Technology and crane data mapping for tower cranes through our ‘ZOOMROOM’, set to future-proof our industry and align with the State Government’s agendas for infrastructure, skills development, and innovation—marking an Australian first.
- Sustainability: We have also recently partnered with PowerShift, introducing a world-class battery system to the ARC Apartments by Hindmarsh that optimises / eliminates diesel generators for a cleaner, smarter, more cost effective power solution.
- Collaborative partnerships: We have continued to build on strategic partnerships with businesses that share our forward-thinking vision for the future of the sector and providing our clients with new ways of doing things; shifting our focus to ingenuity, resourcefulness and versatility.
- Relocation: Load 28 relocated to a much bigger premises in Hendon to support the ongoing growth of the business.
- Staff Highlight: Load 28 Managing Director Marcus Rigney’s eldest son, who suffered a traumatic brain injury only two years ago, is now one of the youngest tower crane operators in Australia.
- Career Development: We have focused on the development of our team, upskilling them and providing them a platform for career growth.
2025 has been a year of significant growth and achievement within the business, but one that has demanded intense focus from me, and the unwavering commitment and strength of my team and my personal support network.
Despite my weariness, I have a sense of optimism for what’s to come. Key lessons learnt from 2025 will continue to shape Load 28’s strategies and growth in 2026. We have some exciting developments in the business and will continue to push the boundaries, finding new and innovative ways to deliver for our clients and the industry.
Thank you to all of our valued clients for their support in 2025, and to my team, who have worked harder than ever before to deliver on Load 28’s vision for the future. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year and we look forward to a continued successful relationship with you in 2026.
