by Andy Bryenton

Farrand and Mason, the long-established firm of Dargaville engineers, has celebrated a 50-year anniversary with one of their most famous suppliers this week, honouring a partnership which has kept thousands of machines moving and producing.

Founding business partners, Noel Davies and Lee Short, founded the modern iteration of Hydraulink in 1989, revitalising an existing brand. They immediately set out to build their network, among the rural and construction trades requiring reliable hydraulic power. The pair recount long hours spent in their company Toyota, travelling the nation.

Farrand and Mason is the longest-established Hydraulink partner in Australasia — a decade ahead of the nearest other firm

“We found that locals love dealing with locals, and that this business is all about relationships,” says Noel. “We’re lucky to have partners like Farrand and Mason, who we have grown alongside, and shared their success.”

The current management of Farrand and Mason began in 1990, and today founder Kevin has seen the next generation take the helm, led by his son Chris. The Hydraulink aspect of business complements their focus on fabricating, engineering and repair, and has been a valuable part of serving the forestry, farming and industrial sectors. 

Noel Davies & Lee Short Celebrating 30 Years with Farrand and Mason in 2006

“It all factors in together. If people need a repair, it’s convenient to do the hoses at the same time. We have a reputation for being able to fix things, reduce downtime, and hydraulic services are a big part of that,” says Chris. 

“Fifty years is a long time to be a distributor, and we have gone through challenging times with business together,” said Lee Short, addressing the combined Hydraulink and Farrand and Mason teams at a special presentation last week. 

“We have come through it all well, and we greatly respect the loyalty of Farrand and Mason, our oldest partner, and one which is special to us.”