For more than 40 years Canberra Contractors has been part of the city’s growth, shaping suburbs, roads and infrastructure. Formed in 1983 by three friends, Ettore Grande, Pasquale Cerullo, and Geremia Pino, over time Frank Macor joined the team. When Ettore left, Michael De Simone came on board, managing the company for many years. Today, the company is led by Paul Macor, who grew up in the business, alongside Angelo Cerullo, and together they have carried it into new era of civil construction.
Both Paul and Angelo were introduced to the industry through their fathers, who worked together at CITRA before their time with Canberra Contractors. From a young age, they each spent time on job sites, soaking in the atmosphere, observing the work, and understanding the people and challenges involved. “Watching Dad manage projects and lead teams gave me a strong appreciation for the dedication and skill required in construction,” says Paul. Angelo echoes this. “Being exposed early to construction on job sites with my father really ignited my passion for the industry,” he says.
Canberra Contractors began as a family business with a strong work ethic, a hands-on approach, and a commitment to reliable, quality work. Over the years, other family members have also contributed to the business, helping maintain the values and standards that set them apart. “The biggest influences on my career have been my father Frank, Michael De Simone, Pasquale Cerullo, Mike Dunn and Nick Huseo,” Paul says. “They not only taught me the technical side of the industry but also the values that truly matter: hard work, honesty and taking pride in everything you do.”
Angelo reflects with pride on the company’s impact, showcased through many standout projects over the years. “Some highlights include the duplication of Horse Park Drive, the Denman Prospect subdivision, Gungahlin Town Centre infrastructure works and South Jerra,” he observes. “Seeing families move in, schools open, businesses start – that’s when you know what we do really matters. We’re not just shifting dirt. We’re building communities.”
The industry has changed significantly since Canberra Contractors started. In the beginning, deals were made with handshakes and a lot of trust. Now, contracts, compliance, and risk management are the norm. “While some of these changes are for the better, you do miss the simplicity of the past” reflects Paul.
Technology has also transformed the way they work. “We’ve moved from largely manual processes to a much more digitised and data-driven approach, from GPS-guided machinery and 3D site modelling to project management software,” says Angelo, who oversees the company’s technical capabilities. Safety and sustainability are also priorities for the company today. “Safety is front and centre now and that’s how it should be,” Paul says. “Everyone deserves to go home safely at the end of the day.”
“We’ve got to be thinking about the environmental impact of the work we do, because that’s the future,” says Angelo.
Master Builders ACT has been part of Canberra Contractors’ journey since 1991. Paul and Angelo remain grateful for the resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities their membership has afforded them.
“The MBA has been so important for keeping us informed about industry best practices, regulations, and emerging trends,” says Paul. “But more than that, it’s given us a community. On a personal level, it has provided me with a strong sense of connection to the broader construction community in Canberra, allowing me to learn from industry leaders and contribute to shaping the future of the sector.”
Angelo agrees with this sentiment. “You know you’re not on your own. You can pick up the phone and get advice, or meet up with other builders and share ideas.” Looking ahead, Paul sees both challenges and opportunities. “We need more young people to see civil construction as a career,” he says. “It’s rewarding work. You build things that last. But we’ve got to make it attractive to them.” He also points to housing affordability and infrastructure demand. “Canberra’s going to keep growing. Our job is to make sure the infrastructure keeps up.”
Despite the pressures, Paul and Angelo remain passionate. “It’s not always easy, but it’s real,” says Angelo. “You can see the results of your work in the roads, the suburbs, the communities. That’s something to be proud of.”
