Australian crane rental company Capital Cranes closed its gates for the last time yesterday after 36 years in business.
The company, based in Hume on the south side of Canberra, was founded by Digger Misner in 1990 and runs a wide range of cranes including spider cranes, Franna pick & carry cranes and All Terrains up to 250 tonnes, most of which carry the famous bright orange livery and bold blue signwriting.
Getting ready to close the doors on 36 years work
The reason for the closure is that Digger has decided to retire.
Digger Misner with his 250 tonne flagship crane He published the following message for clients, employees and partners:
“On 30 September 2026, we’ll close our doors for the last time. It’s sad to leave behind something that has been such a big part of my life, but I’ll carry the people and the memories with me.”
“To our customers, some of whom have been with us since the very beginning: thank you for calling us back, trusting us with your work, and giving us the chance to prove ourselves again and again. I have never taken that trust for granted.”
“To our suppliers, especially Liebherr Mobile Cranes, Franna Cranes and Pace Cranes: thank you for standing behind us, from the first sale through every year of after-sales support. Having people, we could count on made the hard days easier.”
“A special thank you to Finlease brokerage, and particularly Jeff Wilson, for believing in me and helping back this business over the years. Your confidence and support meant more than I can say.”
“To every member of our crew, past and present: you made Capital Cranes what it became. I’ll remember the early mornings, the difficult lifts, the laughs along the way, and the care you showed our customers. I’m proud of what we built together, and I’ll miss working beside you.”
“More than anything, I’ve cared about our reputation. I wanted us to be known for doing right by people and for doing the job properly, even when no one was watching. I hope that is how you’ll remember us.”
“To everyone who has reached out in these past weeks with kind words about the business and the way I’ve run it: thank you. At a time when saying goodbye has been harder than I expected, your words have meant the world to me.”
“Thank you, truly, for being part of our journey.”
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