Elandra stays in the family as business expands

by Imprint Media on 1 Aug 2013 The team at luxury motoryacht builder Elandra Yachts continues to grow with the addition of two specialists to the team on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Phil and Nathan Dudding have joined, increasing the company’s capabilities - and its New Zealand contingent.

The pair bolster specialist skills as the company heads toward completion of the moulds for its first Elandra 5 sports yacht.

The father-and-son team also continues Elandra’s family orientation.

New Zealander Bill Cranston heads the shop floor team and his sons Kane and Shaun work alongside him. Managing Director Luke Durman’s brother, Tom Barry-Cotter, works in design and General Manager - Operations Grant Senior’s partner Tess is involved with administration at the new company.

Phil Dudding takes on the role of Production and Purchasing Manager as the company heads toward construction of the first Elandra five sports yacht and Nathan is a specialist cabinet-maker.

Phil Dudding joins from Formula Cruisers in New Zealand where he worked closely with Grant Senior. He brings more than 40 years of experience in boatbuilding, working at Salthouse before his time with Formula as well as running his own businesses.

'My first objective is to develop a lean manufacturing program with Elandra,' he said. 'Luke, Grant and the team are focused on the customer experience. A lean manufacturing process will bolster that goal.'

Nathan joins from Yachting Developments, an Auckland based custom yacht design and build company where he was responsible for cabinetry and internal fitout.

'I loved what I was doing with Yachting Developments,' said Nathan. 'But the chance to work with Dad again and be part of such an exciting new project was alluring.'

The family orientation was not deliberate but, said Durman, it has worked to quickly form a strong bond between all the individuals in the team.

'We have set ourselves a massive challenge,' he said. 'It requires a great effort by each individual and from the team as a whole if we are going to succeed. Having a group of people who fit in well and work closely is an enormous asset.'

Elandra Yachts is on target to launch the first Elandra five sports yacht in July next year.

Click here to visit Elandra Yachts web site.