Tim Lamb, Daracon Group Plant Operator has landed a spot on the podium at the Asia Pacific Regional Final of the Cat® Global Operator Challenge, held in Japan at the end of October. This achievement means Tim will now represent Australia on the world stage at CONEXPO Las Vegas in 2026.

Following his performance at the NSW State Final hosted by WesTrac earlier this year, Tim continued to demonstrate the technical excellence that set him apart from the competition. Placing third against 18 of the highest performing operators from across Asia Pacific, Tim excelled in completing a series of demanding challenges designed to test machine control, safety, and efficiency under pressure. His performance also led to him being awarded the Excavator Champion at the competition

Tim said he is honoured to take out third place in the Asia Pacific Regionals.

“This journey has been incredible, and I’m proud to represent Daracon Group, WesTrac, and Australian Operators at the global finals. I can’t wait to take on Vegas and show what our region can do,” Tim said.

“Up until this trip to Japan, I had never travelled overseas and now I have a ticket to Vegas to compete against the world’s best.”

The Cat® Global Operator Challenge is a test of skill for machine operators worldwide, bringing together elite talent to compete in tasks that push equipment knowledge and operating precision to the limit.

Daracon Group Plant & Transport Divisional Manager, Cory Hay said he was proud of Tim’s achievements.

“Tim’s success is a reflection of his dedication and technical ability, as well as the ethos Daracon was founded on – having the best people and the best equipment,” Cory said.

“The entire team will be cheering him on as he heads to Las Vegas in 2026!”

WesTrac, the official Cat dealer for NSW, ACT and Western Australia, and host of the NSW and WA state finals, also congratulated Tim on his victory.

“Tim’s achievement is a testament to the incredible talent we have in NSW due to the size of our construction industry and the strength of our partnerships with customers like Daracon,” said Jason Hall, WesTrac General Manager Construction Industries NSW/ACT.

“We’re proud to have played a part in his journey and can’t wait to see him represent our region on the global stage.”

IMAGE | Tim Lamb, Daracon Group Plant Operator will represent Australia on the world stage at CONEXPO Las Vegas in 2026.