KEE Manufacturing has operated mobile asphalt plants in the Pilbara since their acquisition. For the past ten months, we’ve been collaborating with a valued client in Onslow, and recent contract variations will expand our role in the project. Our team is now tasked with manufacturing and laying asphalt over a significant portion of a new haul road, and they are working diligently to deliver high-quality results.

Our Onslow crew are pictured taking a well-earned break.

Anthony Serpo, Growth and Strategy Manager

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Hailing from the historic town of Earl Shilton, Leicestershire, England, Darren Phillips grew up surrounded by both rich history and a bustling family life. As one of nine siblings, it’s fair to say he has mastered the art of adaptability, patience, and diplomacy growing up! His family has strong ties to the industry, with his father and younger brother both working in construction, while his younger sister has recently embarked on her own path, studying Civil Construction Management at university.

Darren moved to Western Australia in 2009, following his family in search of “blue skies and sunshine.” Drawn to hands-on work, he explored various trades, including woodwork, metalwork, and electrical engineering. A natural problem-solver, he initially pursued an apprenticeship in cabinet making before an unexpected turn led him into the asphalt industry. Starting at Boral, he soon became deeply involved in asphalt production, spray seal operations, and even float driving, transporting heavy machinery between sites. His journey took him from Boral to Downer and, ultimately, toKEE Group—where his positive attitude and team-player mentality have been welcomed.

“Darren’s commitment to KEE is unwavering,” says our CEO, David Cox. “He is truly passionate about his work, and his dedication is evident not only in his contributions on-site but also in the great project photos and drone-film footage he shares on LinkedIn.” Before joining KEE Group, Darren was already familiar with the company, having supplied them with asphalt mix since 2017.

“I’ve always been impressed with how driven everyone at KEE is—not just to get the job done, but to get it done right, efficiently, and profitably,” says Darren. “I always felt frustrated when I worked for larger companies, as it seemed like they were on cruise control. Big companies just expected work to land on their doorstep, and they didn’t really feel the need to innovate or invest—at least not in WA.”

Darren’s role involves overseeing the logistics of personnel and material movements, ensuring all equipment is well-maintained, and providing support across KEE’s Surfacing division. His position demands quick thinking, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of both the technical and operational aspects of asphalt production. “Every day is an enjoyable day. The guys at KEE are always appreciative when you help them, and they’re just as willing to lend a hand when you need it. We’ve got each other’s backs.”

He recalls a wise supervisor once telling him, “When things get tense on the job, make sure you leave it on-site. Don’t let it affect your willingness to have a beer with that same person after work.” In an industry that demands both precision and teamwork, this philosophy has served him well.
Outside of work, Darren enjoys life in Perth with his partner, Tatum, their nine-year-old daughter, Lily, and cat, Felix.

Words by K.Quinn

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Looking ahead, we are excited about upcoming projects in both the Pilbara and Metro areas. One key initiative is our collaboration with MRWA (Main Roads Western Australia) on a nightshift campaign that will incorporate an innovative new binder called BioBinder.

What Are BioBinders?

BioBinders represent the future of sustainable bitumen supply. They consist of approximately 15% bio-oil, offering properties similar to traditional refined bitumen. This innovative material provides several key benefits:

• Sustainability: BioBinders reduce reliance on crude oil-derived bitumen, making them an environmentally friendly alternative.
• Lower Carbon Emissions: By integrating bio-oil, BioBinders contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
• Performance Consistency: Despite their eco-friendly composition, BioBinders maintain the durability and performance required for demanding infrastructure projects.

By adopting BioBinders, KEE Surfacing and MRWA are taking meaningful steps toward sustainable construction practices, aligning with industry trends to minimize environmental impacts.

We’re eager to explore the potential of BioBinders in our projects and evaluate their long-term benefits. This initiative reflects KEE Surfacing’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of advancements in the industry.

Finally, we’d like to extend our congratulations to Anthony Serpo, who has recently been promoted to Growth and Strategy Manager. Anthony’s expertise will undoubtedly drive new opportunities and continued success for KEE Surfacing.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore and implement groundbreaking solutions that enhance both performance and sustainability across all our projects.

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Peter is the youngest of three siblings. His eldest sister, Chris, 49, works as a receptionist at Komatsu, while his brother, Troy, 48, has a solid background in asphalt and now works for the Shire of Gosnells. Growing up in Morawa, life revolved around sports like football, basketball, and cricket—“There wasn’t much else to do!” he laughs.

Peter credits his family for shaping his character, but he also acknowledges the influence of an experienced colleague, Bumpy, who taught him the finer points of rolling asphalt. “He’s shown me so much,” Peter says, appreciating the wealth of knowledge passed on through mentorship. Before joining the asphalt industry, Peter completed a three-year apprenticeship in butchering. However, he soon found the profession unfulfilling and transitioned to asphalt in 2008. Starting with a small business, Peter began at the ground level, working with a wheelbarrow and rake. “The rest is history!”

Peter made his way to Perth following his wife, Karinda who longed to return home. The pair have been together for 24 years, and have been married for 14. Despite the move, Peter found his footing quickly. First impressions of the city? “Loved it,” he says simply. His enthusiasm for the state and his work has only grown over the years.

For Peter, no two days at KEE are the same, but the essentials remain: ensuring all pre-starts are completed and that the team is prepared to tackle the day’s tasks. With over ten years at KEE Group, Peter has worked on numerous projects, and met and worked with many different crews, building a treasure trove of funny stories, (most of which will be safely kept in his memory bank!). His top tip for working in the industry? “Preparation and teamwork are key, but if you’re finding it tough, speak to someone.” Peter’s wisdom is grounded in his years of experience and his belief in the value of open communication.

Outside of work, Peter’s life is just as fulfilling. He lives in Perth with his wife, their two boys and three pet fish. When not working, Peter enjoys fishing, playing softball, and holidaying in Kalbarri, his favorite getaway spot.

Peter’s loyalty to KEE Group is undeniable. “I’ve loved it from the start,” he shares, pointing to the strong camaraderie and the diverse projects he’s been part of. As for the future? Peter looks forward to more laughs, more learning, and continuing to contribute to KEE’s legacy.

Words by Katharyn Quinn

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The Role of Pug Mills in Road Surface Preparation

Road surfacing is a meticulous process that demands precision and consistency to ensure durability and longevity. Pug mills play a crucial role in this process by facilitating the preparation of asphalt and other road construction materials with unmatched efficiency and uniformity.

Traditionally, road surface materials are prepared in batch mixers, which can be labour-intensive and prone to inconsistencies. Pug mills, however, offer a continuous mixing process that eliminates the need for batch mixing and minimises material wastage. By blending aggregates, bitumen, and additives in a controlled manner, pug mills produce a homogenous mixture that adheres to strict quality standards. It would perhaps be similar to baking a cake, if the chef doesn‘t use the exact ingredients, with the exact weight and formula, the cake will not bind or mix correctly and it will sink.

In road surfacing applications, pug mills are particularly effective in preparing Cold Mix Asphalt (CMA), a versatile alternative to traditional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA). CMA offers several advantages, including reduced energy consumption, lower emissions, and extended workability in adverse weather conditions. Pug mills excel in mixing CMA ingredients, ensuring optimal coating and binding of aggregates without the need for high temperatures.

Achieving Superior Road Surface Quality with Pug Mill Technology

The quality of the road surface is paramount in ensuring safety, performance, and longevity. Pug mills play a pivotal role in achieving superior surface quality by consistently producing well-graded and thoroughly mixed materials.

One key advantage of pug mills is their ability to customise mix designs according to specific project requirements. By adjusting factors such as aggregate size, binder content, and additives, road surfacing companies can tailor mixtures to suit varying traffic loads, climatic conditions, and pavement types. This flexibility allows for the creation of durable and resilient road surfaces that withstand heavy traffic, extreme weather, and other environmental stressors.

Furthermore, pug mills contribute to enhanced compaction and pavement density, which are critical factors in preventing premature deterioration and extending the service life of roads. The uniformity and homogeneity of materials produced by pug mills ensure consistent compaction across the entire pavement surface, minimising voids and improving overall structural integrity.

Promoting Sustainability in Road Construction with Pug Mills

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, sustainability has become a focal point in road construction practices. Pug mills play a significant role in promoting sustainability by reducing energy consumption, minimising material wastage, and supporting the use of recycled materials.

By producing cold mix asphalt, pug mills contribute to significant energy savings compared to traditional hot mix asphalt production methods. The absence of heating requirements not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also lowers fuel consumption and operating costs for road surfacing companies. Additionally, pug mills facilitate the incorporation of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and recycled aggregates into road surface mixtures, further reducing the demand for virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.

We believe pug mills are indispensable tools for road surfacing projects seeking to optimise efficiency, quality, and sustainability in their operations. By streamlining material preparation, enhancing surface quality, and promoting environmentally responsible practices, pug mills are driving innovation and progress in the field of road construction. As the industry continues to evolve, pug mills will remain at the forefront, paving the way for safer, more resilient, and more sustainable road networks.

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Emerging from the need to address urban sprawl, traffic congestion and a severe lack of public transport connectivity, METRONET‘s journey began to take form in the early 2000s. With a vision of fostering connectivity and choice, it became the linchpin for reshaping Perth’s transport landscape.

Inception and Expansion

With approximately 72 kilometers of new passenger rail and 23 new stations, METRONET became a catalyst for unprecedented growth and development. Beyond mere transportation infrastructure, vibrant communities around the new stations has become a possibility, with the hope of turning over 8,000 hectares of land into desirable hubs for living, working, and recreation.

Community Engagement and Feedback

At the heart of METRONET lies a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. Community engagement has been paramount throughout the lifecycle, ensuring that the voices and needs of residents are heard and addressed. Public forums, surveys, and dialogue sessions have fostered a sense of ownership, making METRONET a reflection of the aspirations of Western Australians. Local artists have also been engaged to create murals and illustrations to make the areas aesthetically pleasing to the commuters‘ eye.

Sustainability and Innovation

METRONET isn’t just about connecting places; it’s about building a sustainable and resilient future. By promoting public transportation and reducing reliance on cars, METRONET contributes significantly to mitigating carbon emissions and combating climate change. Moreover, the integration of innovative technologies and design principles underscores METRONET role as a pioneer in modern urban planning.

Challenges and Opportunities

Undoubtedly, METRONET has faced its share of challenges along the way. From securing funding to navigating logistical complexities, the journey has been fraught with obstacles. Yet, each challenge has presented an opportunity for growth and innovation. Through collaboration and perseverance, they have forged ahead, turning obstacles into stepping stones towards a brighter future.

Future Prospects

As Perth continues to evolve and expand, the significance of METRONET only grows. With ongoing expansions and integration with other modes of transportation, METRONET is poised to redefine Perth’s identity as a dynamic and interconnected metropolis. The journey ahead is filled with promise and potential, as METRONET paves the way for a more prosperous and sustainable tomorrow.

In the annals of Western Australia’s history, this web of public transport connections will stand as a testament to the power of vision and collective action. It is more than just a transportation project; it is a catalyst for social, economic, and environmental transformation.

We are proud to say that KEE Group has been a great support to METRONET, supplying transportation, heavy plant machinery, fuel to machines and by utilising our large surfacing capabilities. Thank you to our teams men and women who have all been part of re-shaping our great state.

As we ride the rails of METRONET into the future, let us embrace the opportunities it brings and work together to build a Perth that thrives—a Perth where transport, housing, and employment choices abound, and where communities live in harmony with the environment.

Partner agencies involved in METRONET include:

• Department of Transport
• Public Transport Authority
• Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
• Main Roads Western Australia
• Department of Communities
• DevelopmentWA

source: METRONET, WA gov

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“The contrast between our cutting-edge equipment and the antiquated machinery previously employed was akin to a supermodel making a grand entrance into a bar, captivating onlookers with her grace.”

Our “supermodel” (pictured) was the state-of-the-art Vogele 2100, complete with a sophisticated GPS levelling system to ensure the required levels were achieved first time every time.

This technological superiority enabled the timely completion of the project, setting the stage for the surfacing team to execute the spray seal component.

While we may not claim to be the most economical option, the value we bring to your team is immeasurable.

Thanks to our valued client for providing us with an opportunity to showcase our expertise.

Bumpy Samuel, KEE Surfacing Manager

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The 2023-24 state budget reinforced a commitment of $13.6bn towards the transport infrastructure pipeline, of which $6.5bn will be allocated to the state’s road network over the next four years. 

But why do our roads need so much work?
 

1. A growing population and passenger vehicle fleet combined with increasing freight volumes is placing greater pressure on our road infrastructure network.

2. A steady increase in vehicle volumes and weights, combined with historic underinvestment in the road network has resulted in declining road quality and a backlog of maintenance requirements.

3. Ongoing investment in Australia’s mining industry will see continued growth in capital expenditure towards expanding and maintaining the private road and rail network.
 

This is why KEE Group continues to invest heavily in equipment to grow our KEE Surfacing Division. 

Over the last 12 months, our surfacing crews have been to some of the most remote areas in WA. You may have seen them in Wyalkatchem, Denmark, Albany, Onslow, Mt Magnet, Latham, Cape Preston, Tom Price and even West Musgrave, which is almost at the border of WA, NT and SA!

Over the next year, you will see us at a lot more places – so keep an eye out for The K-Team!

To our valued and loyal clients, we sincerely thank you for giving us the opportunities, for putting your trust in our teams and for your relentless support.

Thank you to our magnificent team at KEE Group who Keep Exceeding our Expectations!

Here’s to a prosperous 2024 for all.

DavidCox, CEO

Photo by KEE Surfacing’s Alan Dagleish

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Anita was brought up in a large family household with four sisters and one brother. “Growing up in a family of eight with one bathroom and one TV was a bit different to today. We often had to line up to use the toilet or shower and would fight to get our favourite TV show on, with dad usually winning that fight,” she says, smiling. “I have watched more episodes than I care to remember of The Benny Hill Show! I still can hear the show’s theme song in my head!”

From Family Values to Corporate Success

Guided by the strong work ethic of her father and the nurturing nature of her mother, Anita’s foundational values were cemented early on. “My Dad can only be described as a true gentleman. He was also very hard working and often had two jobs to help put all six of us through private schools. My Mum is the consummate nurturer and carer, and is still looking after everyone today.”

Mrs King; Our Queen of Surfacing 

KEE’s Surfacing Manager, Bumpy Samuel says, “Anita joined the company back in 2012. She started at the front desk at our humble office in Balcatta, and she has had exposure to all departments that make up what we all know as KEEGroup.” He continued, “Anita’s main strength is her ability to give direction (even if you haven’t requested it LOL!), which keeps us all in line. Her attitude and work ethic have been assets to the business, and we look forward to Anita helping us drive our division for many more years to come.” Anita thrives in KEE’s unique work culture. “I love working with Bumpy, Damon, Clayton and Antonia. KEE is definitely a different place to work. Certainly not a normal office, which is why I like it. It’s a lot of fun, but we all work hard. There is a big “care factor” with what we do.”

With her Hungarian heritage, Anita has been to Budapest twice now. “When I fly in, I feel a connection. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe,” she said. “The restaurants on the river opposite Buda Castle are a favourite place to eat and all the buildings lit up at night along the Danube are absolutely spectacular. I love the city and can’t wait to visit again.”

Anita and husband Sean have two sons, Jordan and Tom who have moved from WA for work, and one daughter, Hannah, who lives in Perth with her partner and her three-year-old twins. “Although home-life is a little quieter now, I get everyone home together at Christmas and most Easter holiday breaks so that keeps me happy!” Anita is pictured with her grand-daughter, Lani.

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On day one, we kicked off the conference with a round of golf, with myself, Anthony, Serpo and James putting ourselves forward for the KEE Team. Day two and three our oversized stand provided a platform for engaging discussions with local government representatives and industry experts. We shared valuable insights, exchanged knowledge, and discussed our experiences in the industry.

Inspiration and Success: Highlights from Brad Hogg’s Keynote Speech

We were blessed to have had Brad Hogg, (pictured) the former Australian Test and One Day International cricketer, BBL star player, mental health advocate, Lifeline Ambassador, and board member of WACA as our guest speaker.

Brad’s inspiring presentation took us on a journey through his life, highlighting his remarkable rise, fall, and ultimate comeback in the world of cricket. His talk touched on topics such as overcoming adversity, effective leadership, teamwork, and the importance of preparation for success. A great time was had by all, and we are looking forward to supporting this fantastic event next year.

In addition to our active participation at the conference, we are excited to say that our new mobile asphalt supply has been very successful over the past few months. This addition complements our existing services, which include asphalt laying, paver-laid base course, profiling, and spray seal. With these offerings, we are well-equipped to assist local governments with all their surfacing needs.

Teokotai (Bumpy) Samuel, KEE Surfacing Manager  Connect with me 

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