Over 45 Years of Plant Hire, Demolition, Crushing, and Earthmoving Excellence in Northern QLD

 Meet the Team

Director

Gavin Markwell

Managing Director | Demolition, Earthmoving, Crushing & Screening, and Plant Hire Expert

Gavin Markwell is the founder and Managing Director of The Markwell Group, bringing over 45 years of experience across demolition, earthmoving, crushing and screening, and plant hire. Gavin is a qualified demolisher and boilermaker, with specialized qualifications in the removal and supervision of Friable Asbestos Removal.

His deep expertise and leadership have been crucial in driving the growth and success of The Markwell Group. Under his guidance, the business has maintained its reputation for excellence in safety, efficiency, and service delivery across all sectors.

Certifications

• Demolition Licence Holder
• Friable Asbestos Supervisor and Removalist (A Class)
• Qualified Boiler Maker

Plant Hire Manager

Nigel Ward

Hire Management Specialist | Mining Industry Expert

With over 19 years of comprehensive experience in the mining industry, Nigel brings a wealth of expertise in both above-ground and underground operations. His background spans hard rock mining and open-cut coal operations, equipping him with a deep understanding of the industry's challenges and operational needs. In addition to his hands-on experience in mining, Nigel has a strong track record in the labour hire sector, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing and deploying skilled teams. Nigel is dedicated to providing innovative solutions and maintaining high standards in every project he oversees.

General Manager

General Manager

Nick Lhotka is an experienced operational leader with over 20 years in the mining, civil, and construction industries across Queensland. As General Manager at Markwell Group, Nick oversees all operational, safety, and strategic functions of one of North Queensland’s most respected plant hire and earthmoving contractors.

Throughout his career, Nick has been responsible for managing end-to-end plant operations, executing shutdowns, improving tonnage rates, building high-performing crews, and maintaining strict safety and environmental compliance across multiple sites.

He has led significant operational improvements by streamlining processes, restructuring teams, and implementing effective reporting and accountability systems. With hands-on experience in crushing plants, stacking circuits, heavy mobile equipment, and fleet coordination, Nick combines technical knowledge with strong team leadership.



At Markwell, Nick is driving performance across crushing, screening, and wet and dry hire divisions, while fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. He also plays a key role in supplier negotiations, equipment procurement, and workforce development to ensure the company continues delivering reliable plant and skilled people across the region.

Norm Norris

Crushing Team Specialist | Quarry & Mining Industry Expert

With over 30 years of experience in the quarry and mining industries, Norm has developed a deep expertise that spans both Australian and international operations. His extensive background in the sector, particularly in crushing operations, has allowed him to master the intricacies of optimizing processes, ensuring high-quality outcomes, and overcoming complex challenges.

Norm’s wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience make him an invaluable asset to the crushing team, where he consistently brings innovative solutions and leadership to improve efficiency and productivity in quarry operations.

Licences and Qualifications

• Certificate in Quarry Management
• Certificate in Crushing and Screening

Demolition and Asbestos Removal Manager

Wayne Pellow

With over 25 years of service to the Markwell Group, including 20 years in management, Wayne has become an integral part of the business. His vast experience in the demolition industry, with a particular focus on the safe and efficient removal of asbestos, makes him a highly valued team member.

Wayne is a qualified Demolition Nominated Supervisor and holds the necessary certifications to safely remove and supervise Friable Asbestos Removal. He is also highly skilled in operating a range of demolition machinery, ensuring that projects are executed with precision and in full compliance with safety regulations.

Wayne’s expertise, leadership, and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in demolition and asbestos removal are key factors in the continued success and safety of the Markwell Group.

Licenses & Qualifications

• Demolition Licence Holder
• Friable Asbestos Supervisor and Removalist (A Class)