Our 2024 AGM was hosted and sponsored by Caterpillar of Australia and was an outstanding event. Over 60 members and guests were treated to tours of the automation at the Melbourne Parts Distribution Centre and the exceptional Technical Training Centre including the diesel and gas engine powerhouse where master technicians are trained with working engines simulating captive land and sea propulsion and prime and standby power generation in both diesel and gas configurations including a massive 3606 (127 litre/7,762 cu. in.) gas engine. It is also a centre for excellence in mechanical failure analysis with a vast collection of failed iron and metallurgical training aids which were on display, along with the facility’s restored Aussie built 1960 No.12E grader 21F195.
An outstanding sit-down dinner function was created and delivered by the onsite facility caterer post the meeting before retired Cat Service Engineer – Peter Mekis gave a very interesting and informative visual presentation on the history of Caterpillar manufacturing in Australia, since the subsidiary (one of the first) was formed back in 1955. Peter is doing a fantastic job in reaching out to retried Cat employee’s and generally to collect, digitise and preserve the rich history of Caterpillar of Australia.
A special thank you to Chris Davis - ACMOC member & Melbourne Learning Centre Manager, Charles Farrugia – 33-year Cat veteran and Facility Manager and Greg Mumford – Global & Construction Infrastructure Sales Manager and their teams for support and sponsorship of the event. It certainly showcased what can be done for 2025 when we partner together.
At the AGM it was also the committee’s sincere pleasure to formally recognise the contribution Daryl Marshall has made to the Club, the Chapter and to the preservation of Caterpillar history in Australia. He will formally be added to the Chapters honour board with his very own serial number plate with his name on it.
Thank-you to the dedicated Chapter committee that were all returned to serve another term. There is no doubt the strength and continued growth of our Chapter (152 members and counting) is due to the focus and energy and ‘can do’ attitude you bring to the Club.
