The first vehicle, destined to go on hire with Mackay-based contracting company SBD Services, has undergone rigorous stability and performance testing, the company said.

The Australian-designed vehicle can carry a load of up to 9 tonnes and is still compact enough to manoeuvre in tight spaces without loss of speed or efficiency.

Designed with ergonomic features in the operator station for greater comfort and ease of operation, the Magnum JUG-A-O is said to offer a number of benefits, including variable-flow hydraulics, improved visibility and a low centre of gravity.

The JUG-A-O is Magnum's first foray into manufacture of this kind of equipment. The company said it has used local suppliers wherever possible.

The company's other areas of work include equipment hire and service for underground coal mines in the Bowen Basin. Two additional Magnum JUG-A-O machines are planned for construction this year which Magnum plans to add to its hire fleet.

Magnum's existing equipment hire fleet includes six Eimco loaders, one Magnum loader, six mantransporters, one MPV, and six quick detach implements.