AxFlow Group subsidiary, AxFlow Oceania, has acquired a majority stake in Queensland-based fluid handling solutions provider, Dowdens Group. The agreement represents the company’s largest investment in Oceania to date.
Founded in 1973, delivers fluid handling systems, products and services across key industries including food and beverage, agriculture, mining, and wastewater. The business operates through Dowden Pumping and Water Treatment and Emerald Air Starters and Equipment (EASE).
The company employs approximately 180 people across five locations in Queensland – Brisbane, Rockhampton, Mackay, Proserpine and Emerald – and is led by the second generation of the Dowden family.
Under the agreement with AxFlow Oceania, the current owners of Dowdens Group will remain as shareholders, aiming to ensure continuity and a strong foundation for future development.
AxFlow Oceania managing director, Michael Briggs, said Dowdens is a great business, but what really stands out is the people.
“They’ve got deep technical know-how, strong customer relationships, and a real ability to get complex jobs done,” said Briggs.
“Our focus is to back that team – give them access to more products, more support and more opportunities – so they can keep growing the business and doing what they already do well.”
The partnership offers Dowdens Group opportunities for growth and development, including increased service capacity and lifecycle support, expanded systems and project capabilities, and operational improvements through shared expertise and resources.
Dowdens Group general manager, Steven Dowden, said joining AxFlow enables the company to further develop its offerings.
“We will continue to operate as Dowdens, with the same team and customer focus, while benefiting from access to a broader product expertise and long-term stability,” said Dowden.
Dowdens will maintain its strong local presence across Queensland while leveraging AxFlow’s international network. Queensland remains a key region for fluid handling, driven by demand across mining, water infrastructure and agriculture. The company stated the transaction provides a strong platform for further growth in Australia.
