About Mick's cranes Australia
Our History
The concept for Mick’s Cranes Australia was born in 2014 when Michael Assan envisioned creating the first Indigenous-owned crane company in the Northern Territory. Recognizing a significant gap in the market for high-quality crane services, Michael set out to address the industry’s disparities and provide a more effective solution for local businesses.
In 2022, Michael shared his bold vision with Katherin Coggan, who immediately recognized the potential of the project and eagerly joined the venture. Together, their shared passion for excellence and community development led to the official opening of Mick’s Cranes Australia in 2024.
At Mick’s Cranes Australia, our commitment is unwavering. We are dedicated to providing the highest standards of service and continually strive to be pioneers in Business Advisory Services within the crane industry. Our approach is defined by a strong focus on quality, safety, and a forward-thinking spirit that shapes our role in the evolving crane services landscape.
MEET THE DIRECTORS
Michael Assan
Michael Assan
Michael Assan
Michael Assan, a proud Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander from the Wakka Wakka tribe in Central Queensland, developed a strong, resilient mindset growing up on his grandfather's cattle station. Raised by a single mother alongside his brothers, he was taught to face challenges head-on and never back down.
With 15 years of experience in the crane industry, Michael’s journey began in civil construction, where his passion for machinery led him to obtain both his dogman’s and crane licenses. Over the years, he contributed to a variety of major projects, including wind farms in Queensland, the Snowy Hydro system in New South Wales, oil rigs off Western Australia, and gas super trains in the Pilbara.
In 2015, Michael transitioned into leadership roles, working with respected companies such as Freos and Tut Bryant. He went on to become the Heavy Lift Supervisor in Karratha for Mammoet, the world's largest crane company. In his managerial capacity, Michael was responsible for planning and coordinating complex projects, overseeing large fleets of equipment—up to 32 pick and carry cranes, 45 slew cranes, 10 crawlers, and 20 trucks—while managing a workforce of 200. Specializing in lift studies and handling specialized heavy lifts over 50 tons, including multi-crane operations, Michael is renowned for his deep commitment to safety and his proactive approach to addressing unsafe work practices and workplace bullying.
Kate Coggan
Michael Assan
Michael Assan
Kate Coggan is a dynamic business leader with a strong foundation in management, logistics, and sales. Raised in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, her entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured in a small country town, sparking her passion for business from an early age. Kate’s career began in the fuel industry, where she quickly ascended to leadership roles, taking on her first management position in Mataranka in 2012.
In 2018, Kate founded A.S.K. Refuelling in Katherine, Northern Territory. Here, she successfully managed multiple fuel sites, overseeing operations in wholesale fuel and oil distribution, retail fuel services, and aviation fuel. Her role as a sales representative for Liberty Oil and Equipco further enhanced her expertise in sales and logistics, where she was responsible for managing extensive regional fleets.
In 2024, Kate co-founded Mick’s Cranes Australia alongside Michael Assan. With a focus on training and skill development, Katherin has played an integral role in expanding the company’s operations, fostering economic growth, and supporting community development. Her leadership extends to creating opportunities for Indigenous empowerment and building sustainable local industries.
Kate’s business acumen and dedication to driving change make her a respected leader in the industries she serves, particularly in fostering economic opportunity for both Indigenous and local communities.
Dynamic Partnership
Michael and Kate form a dynamic and complementary team, combining their distinct areas of expertise to create a powerful force in the crane industry. Michael’s deep knowledge of cranes, safety protocols, and team management is bolstered by years of hands-on experience in complex projects and leadership roles. Meanwhile, Kate brings her strong business acumen, administrative expertise, and logistics experience, providing the operational backbone that supports their ventures.
Both recognize their individual strengths and weaknesses, and together, they balance each other perfectly. Their shared commitment to continuous learning and improvement ensures that their partnership remains adaptive and forward-thinking. With their combined skills, work ethic, and shared vision, Michael and Kate are a formidable team dedicated to excellence in the crane industry.