LET’S TALK BUSINESS - VALLEY STEEP SLOPE CLEARING

David and Brittany Ross run this vital business, which specialises in maintaining and clearing properties on steep slopes and hard-to-reach areas. They use an advanced slope mower and multiple cutting options to safely manage land maintenance, even in the thickest areas up to 60º inclines, delivering professional results every time. We caught up with David to find out more about the people behind the business.

1. Where were you born and raised, and what brought you to the Hinterland?

I was born and raised across South East and Central Queensland, while Brittany grew up in Wollongong, New South Wales. Over a decade ago, my late father, Victor, and I purchased a hinterland property, which became the foundation for our family life and future business. 

The region also holds deep personal significance for me. My great-grandfather served as a ranger in the Mary Valley—where his grandmother and her siblings were raised. The area’s natural beauty, family history, and sense of community made the hinterland the ideal place for Brittany and I to settle and raise our three daughters.

2. Please tell us what sets your land maintenance business apart?

Valley Steep Slope Clearing stands out through a combination of advanced technology, specialised expertise, and a commitment to quality. The business uses a highly capable remote-controlled slope machine and multiple cutting attachments, allowing safe and effective clearing on inclines up to 60º—areas where traditional machinery cannot operate.

Attention to detail, environmentally conscious practices, and a focus on reclaiming land without sprays or poisons further distinguish the service. 

I believe my “never say never” approach, paired with precise machine operation and a genuine dedication to customer satisfaction, ensures consistently professional results even in the most challenging terrain.

3. What are the challenges involved in running a business like this?

The steep terrain itself is a constant challenge, but weather is the most significant factor. Wet conditions and steep slopes simply don’t mix, and rainfall can delay or restrict operations. 

Planning around weather patterns, ensuring safety, and maintaining equipment to handle demanding environments all require careful management. 

Despite these challenges, the team remains committed to delivering reliable, high-quality work.

4. What can a typical day entail for you?

A production day begins early, with charging, loading, and preparing all equipment and support gear. After travelling to the site, the team conducts a pre-start inspection of both the machine and the planned clearing area, along with completing documentation such as hazard assessments, machine and rainfall checks.

The bulk of the day is spent clearing vegetation to meet both client expectations and internal targets. Once the work is complete, the machine is cleaned down, reloaded for transport, and taken home for servicing and preparation for the next day’s operations.

5. Do you have any special or funny moments with a customer you would like to share?

Some of the most memorable moments come from customers’ reactions when they see what the machine—and operator—can achieve. Many clients have never witnessed equipment capable of safely working on such steep slopes or handling such dense vegetation. 

Their surprise and appreciation are often the highlight of the job and reinforce the team’s commitment to delivering exceptional results.

6. What do you like to do in your spare time?

Outside of running the business, we spend most of our time with our three daughters, supporting them as they grow and explore their interests. Family activities often include swimming, kayaking, bike riding, jujitsu, bushwalking, and maintaining our property—much of which doubles as a place for adventure and learning.

7. What is a favourite quote or saying that inspires you both?  We have a few inspirational quotes and sayings that we have used for a long time, but together we would choose this one: A rich life isn’t measured in possessions, but in love, purpose, and happiness.

Valleysteepslopeclearing.com.au / Phone: 0417 782325