Earthmoving in Cooktown

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Cooktown Earthmoving

For reliable and efficient earthmoving in Cooktown, STJ Earthmoving delivers trusted services backed by decades of experience. We work with property owners, contractors, and local businesses to carry out a wide range of earthworks, including land clearing, dam construction, excavation, track building, and site preparation. Whether you're managing a small block or large rural development, we provide the right combination of skilled operators and high-performance equipment.


Our machinery is available for both wet and dry hire, and we tailor our services to meet the specific demands of your site. Each project is handled with a focus on safety, accuracy, and long-term outcomes.


If you need expert support for your next job in Cooktown, call 0407 161 783 to speak with our team today.

Earthmoving Services Offered in Cooktown

  • Dam Construction & Maintenance 
  • Land Clearing & Slashing 
  • Paddock Preparation 
  • Firebreaks 
  • Road & Track Construction Maintenance 
  •  Vegetation and Erosion Control 
  •  Excavation & Plant Hire
  • Gabion Rock Walls 
  • Wet Hire

Dam Construction & Maintenance in Cooktown

We design and build durable dams throughout Cooktown, ensuring water systems are dependable and fit for purpose. From initial excavation to long-term maintenance, we cover every step of the process.


Our team delivers high-quality results for agricultural, commercial, and private landholders. Whether you're upgrading an existing dam or constructing a new one, we provide lasting solutions that hold up in Cooktown’s conditions.

Land Clearing & Slashing in Cooktown

Clearing land in Cooktown? We offer fast, safe, and thorough land clearing and slashing services for agricultural, residential, and infrastructure projects. Using purpose-built equipment, we remove unwanted trees, scrub, and heavy vegetation.


We understand the terrain and take care to leave the ground in good condition, ready for whatever comes next. Whether small-scale clearing or full block slashing, we’ll get it done efficiently.

Paddock Preparation in Cooktown

Preparing a paddock in Cooktown requires local knowledge, quality machinery, and attention to detail. We handle everything from clearing and levelling to shaping and conditioning the soil to get it ready for productive use.


Our work supports grazing, cropping, or land redevelopment by creating flat, well-drained, and accessible surfaces that enhance productivity and minimise future maintenance.

Firebreaks in Cooktown

With bushfire risks a reality in Far North Queensland, our firebreak services in Cooktown help landowners stay prepared. We use efficient clearing techniques and robust machinery to create wide, clean breaks in vegetation.


Our firebreaks provide crucial protection for homes, stockyards, and boundary lines by slowing or halting the spread of fire. Every line is built with safety and property layout in mind.

Road & Track Construction Maintenance in Cooktown

We build and maintain internal roads and rural tracks throughout Cooktown, offering year-round access solutions for farms, properties, and construction sites. Our services cover everything from base prep and grading to drainage and resurfacing.


Whether upgrading an old track or cutting a new one, we work to ensure strength, usability, and long-term durability on every job.

Vegetation and Erosion Control in Cooktown

Excess vegetation and soil erosion can cause major issues in Cooktown’s tropical climate. Our team provides solutions that prevent land degradation and maintain accessibility across your property.


We implement strategies like slope stabilisation, selective clearing, and soil protection barriers to control water flow and vegetation spread. Each job is tailored to preserve your land’s structure and health.

Excavation & Plant Hire in Cooktown

For all excavation needs in Cooktown, we offer a skilled team and a dependable fleet of machinery. Whether you’re digging footings, levelling land, or reshaping terrain, we’ve got the equipment and experience to support your project.


Hire our gear with or without operators and get flexible options that keep your timeline and budget on track. All machines are regularly serviced and site-ready.

Gabion Rock Walls in Cooktown

Gabion rock walls are a great solution for erosion control and structural stability in Cooktown’s varied terrain. We build strong, long-lasting gabion structures using natural stone contained within heavy-duty wire cages.


Perfect for retaining slopes, protecting creek beds, or stabilising soft ground, these walls offer a low-maintenance and environmentally friendly solution for rural and coastal properties.

Wet Hire in Cooktown

Need experienced operators and machines for your project? Our wet hire service in Cooktown delivers both, offering convenience and peace of mind. From excavation to clearing and site work, we manage the machinery and the job.


You’ll get reliable performance from well-maintained equipment, handled by professionals who know how to get the job done safely and efficiently. It’s the ideal option for fast, high-quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does weather affect rural road maintenance?

    Weather plays a major role in the condition of rural roads and tracks. Heavy rainfall can cause erosion, washouts, and potholes, while prolonged dry conditions may lead to dust, cracking, and loose surfaces. Unsealed roads are particularly vulnerable, requiring regular grading and drainage to remain passable. Seasonal maintenance is essential to keep access routes safe and functional throughout the year. In regions with distinct wet and dry seasons, scheduling repairs in the dry season helps prevent further damage during heavy rain. Investing in proper drainage and selecting the right materials for the base and surface can improve long-term resilience.

  • What is a contour bank and how does it prevent erosion?

    A contour bank is a shallow ditch or mound built across a slope, following the natural contour of the land. It slows the flow of water during heavy rainfall, reducing runoff velocity and giving water more time to soak into the soil. This minimises surface erosion, especially on sloping paddocks or cropping land. Contour banks also help distribute water evenly across the land, improving moisture retention and supporting plant growth. They're often combined with grassed waterways, buffer strips, or re-vegetation efforts for maximum effect. Properly designed contour banks are a low-cost, long-term solution to protecting soil and improving land productivity.

  • What should I consider when hiring excavation equipment?

    When hiring excavation equipment, consider the scope of your project, the type of terrain, and the level of access available. For example, compact excavators are ideal for tight or residential sites, while larger machines suit open farmland or heavy-duty civil works. You’ll also need to decide between wet and dry hire, depending on whether you have a qualified operator. Check that the machine is well-maintained and suitable for your specific job, such as trenching, dam building, or tree removal. Don’t forget to factor in transport, fuel, and safety requirements. A reputable hire company should provide guidance and support throughout.