MEET THE DIRECTOR - Craig Richardson
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I’ve always had the drive and determination to run a small business. In my early twenties, I successfully operated my own venture before selling it and moving to Western Australia to expand my career, working as an auto electrician.
The inspiration behind starting ATF came from my observation that many companies were hiring inexperienced individuals without providing the necessary leadership or industry insight. I wanted to create a business that prioritizes expertise and guidance.
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We originally launched as AT THE FACE in Kalgoorlie/Boulder, WA, in 2009. The company began as a partnership, but it dissolved in 2015.
In 2016, I founded AT THE FACE MINING to continue pursuing my vision in the industry.
I have spent 30 years in the quarry, mining, and tunnelling industry..
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to service all the major quarries from Sydney to Newcastle, gaining extensive experience and knowledge in the field.
One of my significant tunnel projects, the ETP, invited me to China to oversee the completion of one of the two Herrenknecht (HK) Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) for the final section of the Sydney Metro tunnel network.
This phase involved the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), a critical process to ensure the TBM met all necessary specifications and Australian Standards.
During the Factory Acceptance Test, I was responsible for verifying that the machine adhered to the stringent requirements outlined in our contract, including compliance with all relevant documentation and specific client requests.
This meticulous evaluation ensured that the TBM was not only fully operational but also equipped to handle the unique challenges of the Sydney Metro project.
My experience overseeing this process underscored the importance of precision and collaboration in delivering complex tunnelling solutions.
Craig runs At The Face Mining with the same energy and passion he brings to every part of his life.
He’s always saying his favourite line, “catching fish, making money,” which really sums up his approach.
He works hard for the business but never forgets what matters most—his wife and two kids, who he absolutely adores.
When he’s not on the job, you’ll usually find him on the farm, riding motorbikes, or tinkering with his cars, passions that keep him grounded and inspired.
Craig’s dedication to hard work shows in the way he leads the company, fostering a culture of reliability, integrity, and a commitment to getting the job done right.
