HNA Group is proud to announce that the HNA Strut Handling Tool has been named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference (QMIHSC) Safety Innovation Awards.
Designed and manufactured in Mackay, Queensland by Anthony Lye and Craig Hall, the Strut Handling Tool has been recognised for its innovative approach to improving safety during heavy equipment maintenance. The award acknowledges practical engineering solutions that reduce risk, improve workplace safety and deliver measurable benefits to the mining industry.
At a Glance
Award
2026 Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference Safety Innovation Awards
Recognition
Finalist
Innovation
HNA Strut Handling Tool
Designed By
Anthony Lye & Craig Hall
Purpose
Reducing manual handling risks during heavy equipment maintenance
Engineering Safer Maintenance
The HNA Strut Handling Tool was developed to improve one of the highest-risk tasks in heavy equipment maintenance - handling large suspension struts.
Traditional removal methods often require multiple personnel, lifting equipment and significant manual handling, increasing both safety risks and downtime.
The HNA Strut Handling Tool provides a safer, more controlled solution, allowing operators to lift, rotate and position heavy struts with greater precision while significantly reducing manual handling.
Key features include:
- Remote-controlled operation
- 24V battery-over-hydraulic system
- Hydraulic-powered strut rotation
- Improved operator protection
- Precision positioning and controlled movement
- Reduced manual handling requirements
- Faster installation and removal times
Industry Recognition
HNA Group's achievement has also been recognised by the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), which congratulated the team on its continued innovation.
"The Mackay-designed solution has now been selected as a finalist across multiple industry awards, recognising its potential to improve safety and efficiency during heavy-equipment maintenance."
– Resources Centre of Excellence
The recognition highlights the growing impact of Australian-designed engineering solutions that improve workplace safety while increasing operational efficiency.
Presenting at QMIHSC 2026
As a Safety Innovation Award finalist, HNA Group has been invited to present the Strut Handling Tool at the Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference on the Gold Coast.
The conference brings together mining companies, engineers and safety professionals from across Australia to showcase innovations that are shaping the future of mine safety.
A Team Achievement
This recognition reflects the dedication and expertise of everyone involved in bringing the HNA Strut Handling Tool from concept to reality.
Congratulations to Anthony Lye, Craig Hall, and the entire HNA Group team on this outstanding achievement.
Looking Ahead
Being named a finalist is an important milestone, but our focus remains the same.
Every product developed by HNA Group is designed to solve real-world challenges, improve safety and deliver practical engineering solutions for Australian industry.
Whether through specialised hydraulic tooling, custom maintenance equipment or innovative safety products, we remain committed to helping our clients reduce risk, improve productivity and keep their people safe.
Learn More
Interested in learning more about the HNA Strut Handling Tool or HNA Group's innovative engineering solutions?
Contact our team today to discuss how we can help improve safety and efficiency within your operation.
