McNaughton Excavations fleet heads to auction in end-of-era sale

A long-running Colac civil works business is preparing to close a major chapter, with its fleet of earthmoving equipment heading under the hammer as owner Peter McNaughton steps back from day-to-day operations.

A second-generation family business that has operated for more than 40 years, McNaughton Excavations is preparing for an “end of an era” sale through Pickles, with around 30 to 35 assets expected to go under the hammer.

Founded in 1980 by John and Catherine McNaughton, the Colac-based business has built a strong reputation across Victoria’s south-west, delivering civil works, subdivisions, drainage, sewer, water and road projects throughout the region.

Now run by Peter McNaughton, the company is entering a new phase as he steps away from managing the business on a daily basis, while remaining involved in the broader civil works sector.

“This business has been part of my family for most of my life. It was started by my father and built from the ground up, and I’m proud of the work we have delivered and the relationships we have built across Colac and the broader region,” McNaughton said.

“This is not about walking away from the industry. I still enjoy the work and I still have a lot to contribute, but the time is right for me to step back from running the business day to day and focus on the next chapter.”

The online auction, hosted by Pickles, is expected to attract interest from civil contractors, construction businesses, local government suppliers, farmers and owner-operators looking for used machinery and equipment from an established regional operator.

Pickles sales executive, Alex Moore, said the sale offered buyers a rare chance to secure equipment from a long-standing local business.

“McNaughton Excavations is a well-known name in Colac and the surrounding region, and this sale represents a rare opportunity for buyers to access quality civil, earthmoving and associated equipment from a respected family business,” Moore said.

The auction opens on May 26 and closes on May 28 via Pickles’ online platform.