In 2025, Whitlands Engineering is celebrating it’s 32nd year of business. It all started with the first Superaxe, built in 1993 – designed by David Burder, who is still the head designer and owner of the company. From humble beginnings, Superaxe transformed the wood splitter industry, earning an unrivalled reputation for innovative design, safety and ease of use. Yet, it is the commitment to quality that really sets these machines apart: the very first Superaxe models built are still in operation, proving that every machine is indeed built tough to suit the challenges of Australian and New Zealand hardwood.
David has a real knack for innovative design and over the years, the range has evolved into a full suite of firewood splitting solutions including the Rex range of saws and processors. From a one-shed workshop in the regional enclave of Whitlands (North East Victoria), Whitlands Engineering has grown to employ over 30 people and expand across multiple sites.
Each machine is designed with ergonomics & productivity in mind. In the Superaxe range, lifting and bending is minimised by the log lifter and the large work bench at ideal working height enables the operator to work with a straight back – meaning these machines can be used all day without strain. Furthermore, all machines are road towable (if registered) and productive – with fast cycle times across the board.
The Rex range of saws, processors & wood handling accessories have set new standards in the firewood industry for safety and productivity. With units operating across Australia and New Zealand, we work business-to-business to ensure that these machines work reliably & guarantee maximum output for the operators.
Whitlands Engineering is still family owned and all sales are direct – meaning there is no distributor involvement. Customers have direct access to David and the team so any issues that arise are solved quickly. Being a small company operating against much larger competitors, we’re proud of our professionalism, expertise and quick response time.
We buy almost 100% of our stock from local suppliers – which pumps millions of dollars into the local industry, and we use local freight companies wherever possible which funnels money into businesses all over Australia and New Zealand.
The smaller horizontal and vertical machines on the market are certainly much cheaper than any machines in the Whitlands Engineering range, and often for good reason. If you’re interested in buying any of these machines, read this first.