ABOUT
Our story
Gato Sales & Repairs was founded by Chad Vadnjal in 1992 to service the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region.
In 1998, the business became the official dealer for Kobelco Construction Machinery across Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Mid North Coast of NSW.
Today, Gato holds the title of longest-standing Kobelco dealer in Australia. Backed by decades of industry experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable service, solid advice, and honest support.
VISION
To lead the industry in reliability, reputation, and results.
For over 30 years, Gato Sales & Repairs has supported the earthmoving and construction industries through quality machinery, trusted service, and long-standing relationships. As the longest-serving Kobelco dealer in Australia, we’re driven by more than just sales — we’re here to help businesses move forward with confidence.
Our vision is to set the standard for backup and support across the region, delivering expert service, unmatched product knowledge, and a commitment to doing things right the first time. Whether it’s keeping fleets operational or helping customers find the right machine for the job, we exist to keep the earthmovers moving — now and into the future.
Our story
Gato Sales & Repairs was founded by Chad Vadnjal in 1992l to service the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region.
In 1998, the business became the official dealer for Kobelco Construction Machinery across Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Mid North Coast of NSW.
Today, Gato holds the title of longest-standing Kobelco dealer in Australia. Backed by decades of industry experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable service, solid advice, and honest support.
VISION
To lead the industry in reliability, reputation, and results.
For over 30 years, Gato Sales & Repairs has supported the earthmoving and construction industries through quality machinery, trusted service, and long-standing relationships. As the longest-serving Kobelco dealer in Australia, we’re driven by more than just sales — we’re here to help businesses move forward with confidence.
Our vision is to set the standard for backup and support across the region, delivering expert service, unmatched product knowledge, and a commitment to doing things right the first time.
Whether it’s keeping fleets operational or helping customers find the right machine for the job, we exist to keep the earthmovers moving — now and into the future.
- Accountability
We take accountability for the job from beginning to end ensuring that the job is done properly the first time.
- Time Management
- Organization
- Collaboration
Collaborating on decisions, jobs and issues as a team ensures the right decision is made whilst creating a team environment. By having everyone contribute possible problems or offer solutions the tasks are completed with better quality and with better efficiency.
- Teamwork
Our team are constantly working in together to get the job done. We try and build this into our work environment as a culture more than just a working attitude and this is evident by the way our team work with each other to get the job done.
- Process Improvement
By constantly reviewing the way we do things whether it be the way we process jobs to the way we fit out a machine or by the suppliers we are using, we consistently review the processes we use to try and make them simpler and more efficient.
- Honesty
- Fairness
We ensure that jobs are completed and charged fairly and competitively and ensure our customers know what to expect from each job. Acting in a fair and ethical manner is one of our priorities.
Built on Performance. Driven by Integrity. Powered by People.
At Gato Sales & Repairs, we don’t just supply industry-leading equipment — we back it with unmatched reliability, transparency, and know-how. With decades of experience in the earthmoving sector, our commitment to precision and performance powers everything we do.
Our Operating Values
Performance
We’re solution-focused and results-driven. Every job is managed from start to finish with accountability and attention to detail — because the first time should always be the right time.
🔹 “We take accountability for the job from beginning to end ensuring that the job is done properly the first time.”
Efficiency
Time is money. That’s why we ensure fast turnarounds, genuine in-house parts, and trained professionals ready to respond. Our systems are built to minimise downtime and maximise productivity.
🔹 “With downtime being critically important in earthmoving, it is a necessity to ensure processes are simple, stock is readily available, and staff are correctly trained to undertake the work
Integrity
Trust is the foundation of every relationship. Whether it’s repairs, servicing, or machine sales — we operate with clarity, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to our customers.
🔹 “With the right planning and the right people, we meet deadlines, reduce downtime, and stand by our word.”
The Team Behind the Success
At the heart of Gato is a team of 30+ skilled professionals — from factory-trained plant mechanics to air-con techs and parts interpreters with 30+ years’ experience.
Our sales reps are more than just friendly faces — they’re industry veterans who understand what you need and know how to deliver it. Whether it’s a new machine, a trade-in, or expert servicing, we’ll come to you.
Chad Vadnjal
Founder
Chad founded Gato Repairs in 1992 with a clear goal — support hardworking businesses with the machines and service they can count on.
By 1998, Gato became the official dealer for Kobelco Construction Machinery across Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, and the Central Coast. Under Chad’s leadership, the business has grown into one of Australia’s most trusted names in earthmoving support — with a fully equipped workshop, field service fleet, and strong reputation for doing things right.
“With over 30 years of industry knowledge and a no-nonsense approach to reliability, Chad’s leadership continues to set the standard.”
Sales Team
Newcastle / Mid North Coast - Dylan Vadnjal, Lake Macuarie / Central Coast Marty Cook, Hunter Valley / hunter New England - Tom Hawlkess-Right,
Our sales team has a combined experience of over 50 years in the industry each bringing a background of experience.
Market knowledge
Prior machine experience.
More than just salesman.
Parts Department
Parts Manager - Daniel Thompson, Parts Specialist - Justin Brock, Nathan Schneider,
With over 6o years combined experience
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Servicing & Repairs
Service manager Brad Winter, Service Coordinator - Doug Guard Auto-electrical manger - Mick Dyet
With over 6o years combined experience
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Management
General Manager - Jason Abbot Accounts Manager - Bern Bokodi
With over 6o years combined experience
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