As Australia’s building boom continues to reshape skylines, another industry is quietly underpinning its progress—waste removal and recycling. Converting rubble into resources is now big business, with Melbourne’s Ecotrans leading the way.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, private dwelling construction grew 17.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, spurring the need for smarter waste management and innovative recycling solutions.

Unlike others chasing a quick profit, Ecotrans delivers a full-service model—handling site clean-ups, collection, disposal, and recycling—while meeting strict OH&S and regulatory requirements.

Building from the Ground Up

What began in 2017 with just a ute and trailer has expanded into a company employing 88 staff and operating 60 machines, including 30 Isuzu trucks.

At the forefront are two FYJ 300-350 twin steer hooklift units for large-scale projects.

“There was an opportunity in the market and builders quickly recognised that a specialised provider like us is more efficient for them, plus we meet the governance requirements of building authorities,” said Jason.

“Ecotrans is now the biggest provider of this type of service in Victoria.

“Our focus is on sustainability and circularity, including the establishment of our own transfer station, where we can pick-out recyclable products and repurpose them to turn a profit.

“We carry a philosophy of efficiency across everything we do.”

Trucks Built for Purpose

Isuzu’s range—from light-duty N Series to heavy FY models—powers Ecotrans’ daily operations. For earth, concrete, and metal loads, the FYJ 300-350 delivers a 30,000 kg GVM with six-cylinder torque and an Allison automatic transmission.

“The FY models have really taken our heavier capabilities to the next level, providing greater capacity and efficiency by carrying more weight and therefore, less trips,” Jason explained.

“The key thing for us is that the truck must be up to the job without compromising safety or reliability in all conditions.

“The drivers rave about the smooth drive, whether they arrive at site empty or returning fully loaded.”

A Fleet to Cover All Bases

Ecotrans’ diverse requirements call for tippers, cranes, skips, sweepers, and bag trucks, alongside transport of excavation equipment.

“We also transport excavation equipment either on the truck or on trailers, so we need that versatility for our operations,” Jason said.

“On top of that the sites we are working on can vary from paved streets through to dirt paddocks and everything in between.”

A Trusted Growth Partner

Jason put considerable thought into choosing a truck brand to grow with.

“I wanted consistency from the product through to the people I would be dealing with from a sales, service and parts perspective,” said Mr Styles.

“I didn’t have to do too much research to see that Isuzu was the obvious choice.

“If there is one thing that I would say about Isuzu is that they are built for purpose but are still comfortable for the driver.

“The drivers really appreciate that despite the fact they could be driving different vehicles, the interior layout is all consistent.”

More Than a Sale

Partnering with Patterson Cheney Isuzu in Keysborough provided more than trucks—it provided support.

“They want my business to be successful, it’s not just a sale for those guys,” he said.

“I know they have my back and whether it be advice or having availability of after-hours service or emergency repairs, they will ensure my business is kept in motion.

“We do a mix of our own maintenance and with the newer trucks, we service through the dealership.

“With an eye on the budget I could not get genuine parts cheaper or quicker, plus they have all the information. Again, this comes back to operating a business where I am dealing with fewer suppliers and focusing on Ecotrans’ growth.”

A Grand Prix Showcase

Ecotrans grabbed the spotlight at the recent Australian Formula One Grand Prix, where one of its Isuzu FSR 140-260 crane trucks was on standby to recover race cars.

“Chris Bitter from Mack Tow did the intro and we took the opportunity with both hands, detailing the truck and decking it out with a motor sports livery,” Jason said.

“I was hoping the truck might get some use and when the heavens opened on the Sunday, it was frequently out collecting race cars.

“It ended up cutting a few laps over the weekend, with many friends and clients sending me photos of it in action.

“For the Ecotrans crew it was an incredible experience picking up an F1 car one day and going back to removing building waste on Monday!”

Looking Ahead

Jason remains focused on expansion—both geographically and in the circular waste economy.

“Construction is not slowing down, so further opportunities will continue to present themselves and we aim to be there to meet the demand,” he said.

“Right now, we are operating in the wider Melbourne metro area but we’re pushing down towards Gippsland and then we will investigate other areas of the state.

“There’s more that can be achieved in waste circularity, and we’re looking to establish more waste transfer stations to achieve even greater efficiencies for the building industry.

“On the vehicle side of things, I’m excited to see the new range of trucks released by Isuzu, especially in terms of emissions and efficiency.

“I have a need to replace some of the older vehicles and at the same time expand the fleet – I will be doing that with Isuzu.”


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