There have been few mining services companies left unscathed by industry volatility, and even more disturbing is the fact that the outlook statements provided by many in the sector suggest there is worse to come.

However, Austin Engineering has not only performed well in 2011-12, but management expects the company to increase revenues, profits and dividends in 2012-13. It is expecting a particularly strong first half, estimating earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation will be about 50 per cent higher than the previous corresponding period.