Category: EPE News

Queensland Government awards grant to EPE and Grabba to accelerate the industrialisation and export of Australian sovereign uncrewed aerial systems.

Our Queensland partnership is being supported through the Sovereign Industry Development Fund to establish an integrated drone manufacturing capability across three sites in Brisbane.

The project will design, build and test drone systems and components — strengthening local capability for Defence Australia and global markets.

The project will:
✅ Establish scalable manufacturing for uncrewed aerial systems
✅ Support around 55 skilled jobs
✅ Back a veteran‑owned business with former defence personnel in its workforce
✅ Strengthen defence supply chains and advanced manufacturing capability

Read more on: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/105423

The Australian Department of Defence awards the contract to supply specialist detection tools under the Joint Counter Explosive Hazards Program to EPE Trusted to Protect.

The Australian Department of Defence has awarded the contract to supply specialist detection tools under the Joint Counter Explosive Hazards (JCEH) Program to EPE Trusted to Protect (EPE). The program enhances the ADF’s ability to Enable, Find, Analyse, Neutralise and Exploit explosive hazards, ensuring force protection and freedom of manoeuvre across the spectrum of operations.

Under this contract, EPE will deliver advanced detector tools for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Search operations, replacing the in-service fleet as it approaches obsolescence. The capability includes the Institut Dr. Foerster Ferex 4.035 Digital Fluxgate Magnetometer for the location of deeply buried ordnance, supplied through KK&S Instruments; and the Minelab MDS-20 handheld dual-sensor Counter IED detector, combining unique metal detection and ground penetrating radar (GPR) technologies.

EPE will provide the Commonwealth with an integrated solution drawing on 20 years of experience delivering and sustaining explosive hazard threat reduction systems for the ADF. The program will be supported by EPE’s team of EOD and high-risk search qualified personnel, bringing years of collective operational experience to the project. This single source award offers greater assurance of the acquisition process, and greater opportunity for collaboration and controlled evolution of the search capability, with EPE managing the supply chain network and specialist training. EPE works closely with trusted Australian partners Minelab Electronics (SA) and KK&S Instruments (NSW) to ensure reliable delivery and ongoing technical support.

EPE is proud to continue supporting the ADF with trusted capabilities that enhance the safety and effectiveness of personnel operating in complex and high threat environments.

Photobomb from Legacy Brisbane #CanungraCombatChallenge 2026.

Mission accomplished!

As always the legacy team lead by Brendan Cox and Lloyd Harris put on a fantastic event to bring defence personnel, Queensland companies and community volunteers together for hashtag#CanungraCombatChallenge.

The EPExpendables successfully completed the gruelling course at Kokoda Barracks with two teams in support of Legacy Brisbane.

A huge thank you to everyone who donated and supported the teams. Your contributions help Legacy continue its vital work supporting the families of Australian veterans.

Don Roach, AM David McGuire Professor Elisabeth Findlay Dr Adam Findlay AO

EPE is pleased to welcome Marina Rockett-Cid as Roo-ver‘s new Communications and Outreach Manager.

For the Roo-ver project, Marina leads communications and stakeholder engagement across the 21 ELO2 Consortium members, shaping the narrative and public presence of Australia’s mission to the Moon.

Through this mission, the ELO2 Consortium is strengthening Australia’s space industry by developing and commercialising cutting-edge capabilities in cyber security, AI/ML, robotics, autonomous systems, and other critical national technologies.

Marina brings 20+ years of senior communications and stakeholder engagement experience across technology, resources and highly regulated industries — spanning ASX-listed energy, national consumer brands and strategic government engagement. She holds a Bachelor of International Business from Queensland University of Technology.

EPE is pleased to welcome Kate Pippia as our Scientific Advisor supporting the sustainment of the deployable exploitation capability for Defence, with a focus on quality systems, laboratory governance, and scientific advisory support.

Kate Pippia brings more than 20 years of experience in forensic science and human identification across government and private laboratory environments.

As the Founder and Director of Identilab, a NATA-accredited (ISO/IEC 17025) DNA testing laboratory in Brisbane, Kate has built and sustained an end-to-end human identification capability from concept through to accredited operation, covering technology evaluation, workflow design, method validation, and quality systems.

Before founding Identilab in 2016, Kate spent nine years as a Scientist at Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services, conducting forensic DNA casework in support of criminal investigations.

Kate comes on to the team to provide specialist scientific advice in the fields of forensic science and the development of the lab quality management systems in line with contemporary international standards. Kates role will bolster Defence exploitation operations by aligning processes and methodologies to ensure accurate and timely data collection and forensic analysis.

Nothing better than delivering capability directly into the hands of operators.

Great to have the opportunity to deliver the Skydio X10D to the team at Hirtenberger Defence Technology Ltd as part of their growing demonstration and integration capability suite.

The Skydio X10D continues to demonstrate why it is one of the leading autonomous ISR platforms available — built with integration, operational flexibility, and real-world mission requirements in mind.

Always great working alongside organisations focused on collaboration, innovation, and delivering capability outcomes that matter.

On 13 June, EPE will be taking on the annual Canungra Challenge in support of Legacy Brisbane.

This year, two EPExpendables teams will tackle the 7km and 10km courses — proving once again that “Trusted to Protect” apparently also means “Forced to Canungra.”

The Canungra Challenge raises vital funds for Legacy, supporting the families of veterans.

🔥 7KM TEAM – “Trusted to Protect, Forced to Canungra”
Adam Ross, Dana R., Mick Ryan, AM & Henry Arbon
Click here to support https://lnkd.in/giPB88De

🔥 10KM TEAM – “Trusted to Protect, Ready to Canungra”
Jacob Oestreich, Sam Cleary, Michael Humphris & Matt Sheridan
Click link to support https://lnkd.in/g9Xxn6SN

EPE is pleased to welcome Andrew Herrod as our new Business Development Manager- UK & Europe.

With a strong focus on client relationship management, Andy is known for identifying new business opportunities and building lasting relationships that will help drive future business in the new UK & Europe business units for EPE.
Andy gained extensive experience in international business development working across various defence sectors to deliver tailored solutions for clients.

His proactive approach, combined with excellent communication skills has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and leader in his field. With a background in the British Army, Andy brings valuable business operational experience to this role. Andy relishes this opportunity to lead the newly established EPE business units in UK & Europe.

We’re thrilled to welcome Andy to the EPE team as we continue expanding our support to UK & European government agencies with trusted counter-threat capabilities.

Long before EPE existed, Warwick Penrose was a student supported by A Start in Life — an organisation built around giving young people the opportunity, guidance and support to build a better future.

Recently, he took the opportunity to demonstrate his gratitude and share his journey to help inspire young students just beginning that same path.

From serving in the Defence Force to building The EPE Group into a team supporting Defence, police and emergency services across Australia and allied nations — it’s a reminder of what can happen when someone believes in you early.

What makes it meaningful isn’t the success. It’s the opportunity to come back and pay it forward.

We’re proud to open our doors and share what we do — because sometimes one conversation or show of support is all it takes to help shape someone’s future.

EPE New Zealand is officially certified to Part 102 Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certificate by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand.

This certification demonstrates our team’s ability to safely manage complex flight activities — including operations at night, over people, and with larger or integrated systems — through proven risk management, documented procedures, and operational discipline.

It was a privilege for EPE Group CEO Warwick Penrose to participate in the Australia-Taiwan Relations Forum 2026 at Queensland Parliament House last Friday.

Thank you to the Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation and Professor Caitlin Byrne AM for convening such an important discussion on Shared Responsibility: Security, Resilience and Regional Stability at a critical time for our region.

It was an honour to join Major General Mick Ryan, AM and Hon Shayne Neumann MP, on a panel that reinforced a clear message “Australia and Taiwan share not only economic complementarities but increasingly aligned strategic interests.”

From an industry perspective, these conversations are not theoretical. EPE. Trusted To Protect has been supporting capability outcomes in Taiwan for many years. That experience points to a significant, and still underdeveloped, opportunity for deeper collaboration across defence industry, sovereign capability and resilient supply chains.

There is real scope for Australia and Taiwan to move beyond dialogue and into more deliberate, practical cooperation that strengthens both nations’ security and economic resilience.

Grateful to contribute to a discussion that brought together government, industry and academia to focus on what comes next.

Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming Matt Cockbain – former Wallabies lock and one of Australian rugby’s most respected figures – to spend time with the EPE team.

Matt didn’t come to talk about trophies. He came to talk about people.
He shared what it really takes to perform at a professional level, the mindset, the discipline, and the trust you build within a team. Lessons that go far beyond the rugby field, and ones that resonate with EPE’s focus on teamwork and leadership.

Matt, thank you for your honesty and sharing what it truly means to show up for the person beside you. Matt gives back generously to the community and is clearly deeply grateful for the opportunities he’s gained through playing rugby at the international level.

Matt’s visit was proudly organised by our Culture Squad as part of our ongoing commitment to team development and high‑performance culture.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

EPE was proud to once again take part in Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems RPAS2026, connecting with industry partners, government stakeholders and operators shaping the future of autonomous systems.

At this year’s event, our team showcased a range of advanced autonomous and robotic capabilities designed to support complex operational environments across defence, public safety and critical infrastructure sectors.

Working alongside our partners — Skydio, Grabba, Keelback, VideoRay, and Boston Dynamics — the exhibition highlighted how integrated uncrewed systems can support operations across air, land and maritime domains.

Events like RPAS provide an important opportunity for collaboration, knowledge sharing and demonstrating how emerging technologies can be integrated to solve real-world operational challenges.

We appreciate everyone who stopped by to speak with the team and look forward to continuing the conversations across the industry.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

A full house and diverse perspectives at Michael A. Johnson’s East Coast Forum’s Business, Economic & Sporting Outlook Panel. Co-hosted by Peter Robertson and James Cooper at the awesome new 4 Pines Landers Pocket . An exceptional atmosphere and a powerful reminder of the depth of leadership shaping Queensland’s future.

Featuring a Panel consisting of:
Warwick Penrose Director, EPE. Trusted To Protect
Kirsty Heymink Director, Graystone Group
Katherine Frost QLD State Head, Foxtel Media
Anthony Penney QLD State Head & PNG Country Head, Qantas
Nicholas Croydon CEO, QBD Books

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

Meet the members of EPE’s Team Roo-ver building Australia’s first lunar rover, in partnership with the Australian Space Agency.

We were honoured to welcome Lord John Spellar, UK Trade Envoy to Australia, and the team from the British Consul-General to EPE this week.
Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between our nations and enabling industry partnerships aligned to AUKUS capability priorities and accelerating sovereign resilience. The enduring relationship between Australia and the UK continues to create opportunities for innovation, interoperability and joint operational success.

We value the opportunity to contribute to that partnership and appreciate Lord Spellar taking the time to engage with our team to see how we are solving complex government challenges in counter-threat environments.
Thank you to Trade and Investment Queensland and Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning for leading these collaborations with industry.

In the latest episode of The Briefing Room, Warwick Penrose, shares insights from a career spanning Army CIED and CBRN specialisation through to building a trusted Defence capability provider.

The discussion examines current challenges in counter-IED, counter-drone, ISR and ECM, including the growing requirement to detect landmines and unexploded ordnance at scale using drones and computer vision. Drawing on lessons from contemporary conflicts such as Ukraine, Warwick highlights the enduring risks posed by unexploded munitions and the importance of trusted sensing, autonomy, and data fusion technologies.

Warwick also reflects on leadership, culture, and the realities of building Defence businesses across the Asia-Pacific and the United States, offering guidance for the next generation of veteran founders shaping Defence innovation.

We thank Beaten Zone Venture Partners for hosting Warwick on The Briefing Room and for creating an important platform for discussions on Defence innovation, leadership, and veteran entrepreneurship.

EPE proudly supported Movember this year, with five of our team Angus Lane, Conor Mathieson, Michael Humphris, Sam Cleary and Luke Krenske growing some impressively questionable moustaches 🥸 to spark conversations and raise awareness for men’s mental health.

Another thought-provoking discussion at Michael Johnson’s East Coast Forum Luncheon, hosted by EPE. We welcomed Ross Thompson, CEO of PeopleIN, to lead a discussion on the Papua New Guinea – Australia Mutual Defence Treaty and its significance for a new era in PNG – Australia bilateral relations.

The conversation explored the key drivers behind this elevated diplomatic arrangement, as well as China’s extensive infrastructure investment in PNG and its broader strategic posture across the Pacific.

A timely and engaging dialogue on regional security and partnership.

Great fun too!

EPE is pleased to welcome Sonny Lynn as our new Business Development and Capability Manager – Countermeasures.

Sonny brings deep expertise in threat reduction, risk mitigation and capability development across military and non-military environments. With a career spanning Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, Special Operations, Targeting, Cyber, Space and CIED, he has a proven ability to translate complex threats and technologies into clear, practical solutions for those on the front line.

His Defence career includes key roles with the Joint Special Forces Operations Component, the Counter-IED Task Force, Army Electronic Warfare Squadrons, and as Program Manager and Technical Lead for Army’s Non-Conventional EW capabilities. Beginning as an Electronics Technician, Sonny has continued to grow his technical mastery with Masters degrees in Project Management and Information Technology, along with accreditation as a Digital Forensic Expert.

Sonny’s strength lies in understanding the threat, listening to operators, and supporting them through the capability and procurement journey—ensuring intent, scope, budget and timelines align.

We’re thrilled to have Sonny join the EPE team as we continue our mission of supporting Defence, Police and First Responders with trusted counter-threat capabilities.

How much fun is it to see young students interact with robotics and dream about the possibilities? We love hosting the Y Schools Pathways Program to inspire young people to consider pathways in robotics and STEM. Our Senior Software Engineer Sami Raines, and Mechatronics Engineers, Luke Krenske and Angus Lane spent a morning with the Y Students talking about their roles in the Roo-ver Mission, and integration of sensors and detectors onto #robotic platforms such as Boston Dynamics Spot. The enthusiasm was awesome!

EPE is proud to exhibit on the Queensland Government Pavilion at Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition – the region’s premier naval and maritime defence event.

We’re showcasing a suite of sovereign and allied solutions purpose-built for contested littoral and maritime operations, including:

️ Kraken K3 SCOUT (Kraken Technology Group)

Maritime Strike • Infiltration & Extraction • Littoral C4ISR • Casualty Evacuation • C-UAS Defeat • Forward Resupply & Support

Defender ROV (VideoRay)

A powerful underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), inspection, and port security – compact, mission-ready, and operationally proven.

⚓ XPYDER Boarding Platform (ST Engineering)

A high-performance boarding system enabling agile ship access for tactical maritime operations – purpose-built for interdiction and boarding teams.

Visit us on the Queensland Pavilion to experience these capabilities in action.
Let’s talk maritime innovation, tactical robotics, and next-generation mission support.

Upper Hutt, 16 October 2025 – EPE New Zealand has officially opened its new and expanded headquarters in Upper Hutt, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth since establishing its New Zealand presence in 2014. The occasion was celebrated with an Opening Event, followed by a Demonstration Day, showcasing some of EPE’s range of mission critical capabilities to valued customers and partners.

The new 600 square metre facility in Upper Hutt serves as EPE’s New Zealand headquarters, housing state-of-the-art administrative offices, a warehouse, and a maintenance and distribution centre.

EPE Group CEO Warwick Penrose highlighted “The release of the Defence Capability Plan sets out an ambitious investment programme to ensure New Zealand has the capabilities, infrastructure, and services needed to protect its people and interests. The Plan also identifies three Strategic Industrial Base Priorities that will shape the future of Defence Industry partnerships: space capabilities; uncrewed systems and counter-systems; and sustainment. These priorities align directly with EPE’s expertise, and we are ready to support Defence as these priorities move from strategy into delivery.”

Warwick continued “The Plan makes one thing clear: delivering on those objectives and priorities cannot be achieved by Defence alone. It requires industry “trusted partners” to deliver capability, sustain it through-life, and help ensure operational readiness. Over the past decade, EPE NZ has grown into a Tier 1 Defence Support partner with five Master Service Agreements. Through our partnership with UROVESA under the Utility Vehicle Replacement Program, we now have a 20-year sustainment pipeline, a foundation that gives us the confidence to invest further in people, infrastructure, and innovation right here in New Zealand.”

The opening event was attended by distinguished guests, including senior representatives from the New Zealand Ministry of Defence, the New Zealand Defence Force and the Mayor of Upper Hutt. The subsequent Demonstration Day provided hands-on opportunities for EPE customers and end users to explore the latest advanced capabilities for defence, law enforcement, border security, and other applications.

EPE New Zealand General Manager Andy Cross underscored the strategic importance of the Upper Hutt location. “Our new facility positions us to deliver unparalleled support to the NZDF on critical projects, including Counter Explosive Hazards, Network Enabled Army Reconnaissance and Surveillance, and support of UROVESA VAMTAC vehicles for the Protected Mobility Capability Project (PMCP),” Cross said. “We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our customers and partners. This new larger facility establishes EPE NZ for future growth and the ability to support additional capabilities relevant to future projects”.

It’s been a full week at SXSW Sydney. Roo-ver helped open the festival with Fabrics of Modern Australia, opened the Innovation Stage on Wednesday, and has been sparking conversations where design, engineering and art meet.

Now we’ve leapt into a weekend with hands-on fun at SXSW Sydney Unlocked, joining the Australian Space Agency in the Innovation Dome at Tumbalong Park.

Come for an up-close look at Roo-ver, chat with an engineer working on the mission, and become a Roo-ver operator by driving a mini lunar rover!

Here’s the iconic moment that Roo-ver hit the runway!

Roo-ver made its fashion show debut at SXSW Sydney with Fabrics of Modern Australia (FOMA), an event that put creativity and technology side by side.

As Roo-ver rolled down the catwalk, Chloe Chang from ELO₂ co-lead Lunar Outpost Oceania spoke with FOMA founder Sonia Sadiq Gandhi about how design, materials and prototyping help turn ideas into a rover that can work on the Moon.

The runway moment highlighted how form meets function – for both fashion and space engineering – and opened the Roo-ver Mission up to new audiences.

Roo-ver and Chloe are at #SXSW2025 through the week, including #SXSWUnlocked this weekend where the public can have a go at driving a mini lunar rover!

What a turnout! We had nonstop engagement at ANZFSS 2025 as investigators and scientists got hands-on with two powerhouse tools: Smytec Ltd’s BlindSite for rapid latent evidence visualisation, and DetectaChem’s APEX R7 for fast, on-scene presumptive testing. From real-world workflows to live demonstrations, attendees saw how these systems can help locate, visualise, and screen evidence more efficiently—right at the scene or back in the lab.

Huge thanks to everyone who stopped by, asked sharp questions, and shared case insights. If you missed the demo (or want a deeper dive), reach out and we’ll arrange a session for your team.

We’re passionate about inspiring young minds to explore science and technology! Thanks to Silverstream School in New Zealand for hosting Chris Panteli, Georgia Halsted, Hayden Robinson, and our robotic friends Boston Dynamics Spot and KNDS France Nerva — the students’ energy and curiosity was contagious!

The visit is part of our celebrations to officially open our new larger facility in Upper Hutt which will enable us to continue to sustain and optimise the wide range of capabilities we provide to New Zealand government agencies.

It’s New Zealand Week at EPE!
Our team is across the ditch for a big week — celebrating the Official Opening of our new facility, hosting a Demo Day, and inspiring future innovators through STEM outreach with local schools.
Stay tuned for updates and photos from the week!

Its’s been an action-packed week at IAC 2025 Sydney, where thousands of space leaders, engineers, researchers, and enthusiasts converged to shape the future of space exploration—and Roo-ver, Australia’s first lunar rover, was front and centre throughout.

A Big Launch for Roo-ver at IAC

From the moment Roo-ver rolled into the Australian Space Agency’s exhibition stand, it sparked conversations across industries and continents. Visitors were eager to learn how this homegrown lunar rover is being designed, built, tested, and operated here in Australia through the 21-organisation strong ELO₂ Consortium.

With daily showcases on the exhibition floor, Roo-ver served as the perfect launchpad for discussions on wheels, sensors, autonomy, and testing regimes. Our team also shared real-time updates, photos, and resources online for those following from afar, ensuring no one missed out on the excitement.

Roo-ver Takes the Stage

Earlier in the week, we presented our peer-reviewed paper at the IAF Space Exploration Symposium, titled “The Road to the Moon: Roo-ver, Australia’s First Lunar Rover.”

Ben Sorensen, our speaker, outlined the technical and strategic journey behind Roo-ver, including the benefits of early prototyping, cross-sector collaboration, and local supply-chain development. The session highlighted Roo-ver’s place within the Australian Space Agency’s Moon to Mars Initiative and how the ELO₂ Consortium is translating concept into capability.

The audience’s engagement was electric—many stayed back to dive deeper into the rover’s development and explore partnership opportunities.

❄️ Australian Engineering in Action

Behind the scenes, thermal control has been one of Roo-ver’s most critical challenges. That’s where ELO₂ partner University of Melbourne’s Melbourne Space Laboratory (MSL) comes in.

With deep expertise in in-orbit mission assurance, radiation-tolerant systems, and miniaturised payloads, MSL supports Roo-ver with advanced thermal modelling, passive insulation, and radiation-resistant heaters. Their work ensures Roo-ver’s internal components stay operational in the extreme thermal swings of the lunar surface.

It’s a powerful example of Australian research capability being applied directly to a national mission, with thermal insights informing everything from power distribution to autonomous operation.

Connecting with the Public

The week culminates with IAC 2025 Public Day, where the wider community can see space in action—for free. Roo-ver is on display out front of the ICC Sydney on Cockle Bay Lawn, alongside mini-models and hands-on demos.

It’s an open invitation to future space leaders, students, and the space-curious to engage with our mission, ask questions, and interact with the rover team directly.

We’ll be talking everything from wheel design to lunar dust mitigation, helping inspire the next generation of Australian space engineers and innovators.

It’s here – #IAC2025 kicks off in Sydney!

Roo-ver has rolled into town and you’ll find us with the Australian Space Agency on the exhibition floor.

Follow along for real-time snapshots from the exhibition and sessions, plus simple ways to meet the team if you’re on site.

If you’re at IAC, either for the full conference or the free public day on Friday, come say G’Day and talk wheels, sensors and testing with the team.

If you’re following from afar, we’ll post highlights, photos and additional resources so you don’t miss a thing.

EPE is proud to support the New Zealand Customs Service in protecting Aotearoa’s borders

Following a competitive RFP process, New Zealand Customs has awarded EPE the contract to deliver the next generation of substance identification instruments, upgrading their current capabilities.

Disrupting and stopping the smuggling of illicit substances is a high priority for Customs. To strengthen this mission, EPE will equip border entry points with modern, fast, and reliable substance identification instruments. These tools will allow officers to safely and accurately detect a wide range of unknown substances—including narcotics, illicit medicines, chemicals, explosives, and other hazardous materials—found in cargo, mail, on vessels, and carried by passengers across sea and air pathways.

EPE will provide not only the equipment but also specialist training and ongoing through-life support, ensuring Customs officers have the tools and knowledge to stay ahead of evolving threats. This capability was selected following rigorous trials and independent evaluation, confirming its effectiveness and reliability for frontline operations.