When projects across Australia need certainty before breaking ground, one Northern Territory company is top of the call list: iFind Pipes ‘N’ Cables — better known simply as iFind. 

Major projects can’t go ahead until iFind has located, marked and safely exposed the position of underground utilities — whether water, sewage, gas, fiber optics or electrical. 

The highly specialised business was founded 14 years ago by former cattle station owner Keith Phelps, starting out with just a vehicle and vac trailer. 

Today, iFind employs 15 staff, operates a fleet of 20 vac trucks — and operates throughout Australia. 

“Our business has always been about supporting clients with accuracy, safety and reliability,” says Keith. “Civil works can begin disastrously — and at great expense – if pipes and cables are ruptured.” 

The company deploys ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic field technology to detect and map underground utilities before excavation begins. Hydro vacuum trucks then dig trenches and expose assets with precision and minimal environmental impact — an essential approach in utility-dense or environmentally sensitive areas. 

iFind is among the longest-operating providers of hydro vacuum excavation in the Territory. What began as an emerging technology has become standard practice across the construction industry, and iFind has been at the forefront of its use in the Territory. 

“Our experience ensures every project is carried out with the highest levels of expertise, safety and efficiency,” says Keith. 

While iFind is trusted for tier-one commercial projects, its expertise is equally valued by homeowners. 

Underground service location before backyard works can avoid serious risks, while hydro vacuum excavation safely exposes underground utilities and provides a cleaner, safer alternative to traditional digging. 

“Our leak detection services also help families avoid costly damage, including the surprise of high water bills,” says Keith. “Whether it’s a major mining project or a suburban backyard, our role is the same — protecting people from risk and unnecessary expense.” 

The Territory-owned and operated company has enjoyed significant but sustainable expansion and now has three other companies under its umbrella: Top End Leak Detection, iRental Australia and iRental Transport. 

Keith co-founded iRental Australia with long-time mate Hamish Fairchild. The hire division supplies many categories of mine-spec heavy equipment nationwide, including water carts, excavators, loaders, skid steers, tilt trays, service trucks and tippers. 

“We meet the needs of customers across Australia and exceed expectations for equipment quality, service, support and price,” says Hamish. 

“Our mine-specified fleet is backed by warranties and a state-of-the-art service team, ensuring minimal downtime and helping clients meet critical project requirements. No matter how remote the location, we deliver the right equipment safely and on time.” 

iRental Transport also provides tilt tray services, offering safe and reliable transport of machinery, vehicles and equipment throughout the Northern Territory, including remote areas. 

The expertise of the Darwin-based enterprise is relied upon by some of Australia’s largest industries, including oil and gas, mining, infrastructure and industrial parks. 

The team has worked on projects such as the Core lithium mine, Newmont’s Tanami gold mine, Groote Eylandt’s manganese operations, the Gove bauxite mine, and the new Fitzroy River Bridge in Western Australia. 

The team includes Operations Manager Jehi Willis, Senior Technician Derek Parkinson, and Office Manager Bree Sing, who are all integral to the company’s success. 

Behind the scenes, Belinda plays a pivotal role in shaping strategy and guiding the company’s growth — a contribution Keith and the team are quick to acknowledge. 

It’s a reminder that the group’s success is built as much on its people as on its technology and equipment. TQ 

CONTACT 

iFind Pipes ‘N’ Cables | Top End Leak Detection | iRental Australia | iRental Transport 

64 McKinnon Road, Pinelands NT 0829 

(08) 8947 4200 

bookings@ifindnt.com 

ifindaustralia.com.au irentalaus.com.au