In this episode of Jimmy Talks Construction, Jimmy sits down with Martyn Matenga, mining project manager and third-generation earthmover, to unpack what it takes to operate at the highest level in the mining industry.

Martyn has driven everything from 1.5-ton excavators to 1,400-ton rope shovels, commissioned some of the first 60-15 and 60-20 machines in Australia, and held documented production records on Liebherr 996 shovels — moving over 66,000 BCM in 24 hours.

This episode covers:

– Breaking world production records in mining

– What separates elite shovel operators from average ones

– Fuel burn, bucket wear and why bad operators cost millions

– Leadership lessons from supervising 300–900 personnel

– Why modern mining rosters have softened the industry

– Building MESA: Mining Shovels & Excavators Australia

– The viral 395 excavator leak before ConExpo

– Growing up in a third-generation earthmoving family

Martyn shares honest insights into operator culture, mentorship, discipline, and how to build production without destroying machines, morale, or teams.

If you’re in mining, heavy equipment, earthmoving, project management, or leadership, this episode is packed with real experience from the top end of the industry.

Connect with Martyn:

🌐 Website: https://www.raywell.com.au/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martynmatenga/?hl=en

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raywell_contracting/?hl=en

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/raywell-contracting/

Connect with Jimmy:

🌐 Website: https://starbuckgroup.com.au

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JimmyTalksConstruction

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starbuckexcavation

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starbuckexcavation

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-starbuck-13336546/

Buy CONEXPO 2026 Tickets NOW, and don’t miss my small business workshop on the Friday!

https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing

Use code STARBUCK20 to save 20% (valid through to March 2).