Family owned business builds community foundations from international insights
By Sonia Isaacs
WHEN Tony Zaldivar and his family made the life-changing decision to leave Mexico for Australia’s Sunshine Coast, they were searching not only for safety and opportunity, but for a vibrant community to call home.
Armed with decades of construction experience and a shared vision to make a lasting impact, the Zaldivar family is now at the helm of ERA Hire, a growing, family-owned equipment hire business fast becoming a trusted name among local builders and renovators.
Tony, who holds a civil engineering degree from the United States along with a master’s and PhD in structural and wind engineering, joined forces with his father, Antonio Zaldivar Sr., a veteran of more than 35 years in the construction industry.
Together, they have combined academic precision with practical know-how to create a business grounded in quality, innovation, and community spirit.
Their Australian journey two years ago began like many new arrivals, navigating the lengthy process of having international credentials recognised. Rather than waiting on formal certification, the Zaldivars took action, launching an equipment hire company that allowed them to contribute immediately to the region’s thriving construction sector while laying the foundations for a new life on the Coast.
“We wanted to be a big part of this community and help in any way we can,” Tony explained.
Settling in Beerwah, the family quickly embraced the Sunshine Coast lifestyle and set out to become more than just business owners. They immersed themselves in local life, building strong relationships with tradespeople and homeowners alike.
Today, ERA Hire operates with a fleet of 17 modern machines, from nimble 1.7-ton excavators to powerful eight-ton diggers and specialised loaders catering primarily to small and medium residential projects. Their fleet includes only the latest models, ensuring customers have access to the most advanced and reliable construction equipment available.
Innovation sits at the heart of ERA Hire’s philosophy. Founder Antonio Zaldivar Snr has developed patented control systems and Building Information Modelling (BIM) technologies that reflect decades of applied engineering insight. His deep industry experience, combined with Tony’s expertise in civil engineering, places the team at the forefront of construction technology. “Innovation is at the core of everything we do,” Tony explained. “We’re constantly researching new methods, refining processes, and investing in technology that improves performance and safety.”
At the same time, the Zaldivar family remains deeply connected to the community values that underpin everything they do.
ERA Hire operates seven days a week, and its team – Tony, his wife, his father, and two dedicated employees brings a family-oriented approach to every job. “We try to provide top-quality service, always being there for our customers and accommodating requests that bigger companies might decline,” Tony said. “Our philosophy is simple: the customer is the boss.”
That personal touch has already earned ERA Hire a strong following across the Sunshine Coast. As word of mouth spreads, their reputation for flexibility, quick problem-solving, and dependable service continues to grow.
For the Zaldivars, success means more than business growth – it’s about building relationships.
“My family is going to grow up here. We want to be a big part of this community,” Tony said.
With that spirit, ERA Hire is poised not just to help build houses, but to help build the future of the Sunshine Coast proving that with hard work, heart, and innovation, new beginnings can thrive.
