Our History

1969

We started in a small workshop in Pirie Street, Adelaide—installing Clyde Vornado under-dash A/C units and Kysor for truck A/C as part of our automotive parts and accessories business "Auto Conversions". Right from the start, we focused on one thing: keeping vehicles and operators cool.

Highgate history 1969
1976

Shifted to Fullarton Road, Kent Town. We secured global brands like Mark IV, Unicla, Autoclima, and it wasn't long before we expanded into the heavy vehicle space, becoming an authorised agent for Kysor truck air conditioning systems. Why? Because when uptime matters, only proven parts and supply will do.

Highgate history 1976
1978

Became the SIGMA (then Clima) distributor. First job? Cooling 14 Terex dump trucks and a PH shovel at Leigh Creek coal mine. Heavy-duty gear for heavy-duty environments.

Highgate history 1978
1981

Launched a purpose-built Gilbert Street site in Adelaide with R&D and testing. That set the tone: we weren't just another parts supplier—we were building the future of automotive A/C.

Highgate history 1981
1990

Expanded into manufacturing. Built a vacuum forming plant. Developed rooftop units and integrated systems. When off-the-shelf wasn't good enough, we made our own.

Highgate history 1990
1996

Outgrew our space—moved to a purpose-built distribution centre in Richmond, SA. Partnered with entities such as SA Ambulance to build and maintain custom A/C systems for emergency vehicles. We didn't just supply—we engineered reliable solutions.

Highgate history 1996
2000

Shifted A/C unit production for SA Ambulance to Devonport, Tasmania. Faster turnaround. Closer to the vehicle builds. A smarter way to meet critical delivery timelines.

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2010

Time to level up. We rebranded with a new focus and tagline: "The Right Part, The First Time." We weren't just growing—we were transforming. Investing in digital, sharpening our message, and setting a new benchmark.

Highgate history 2010
2011

Launched our first website. Kicked off weekly email campaigns packed with tech tips and new gear. And yes—this was also the year the Highgate bikkies arrived. Over 5 tonnes handed out each year since 2021. Small gesture, big impact.

Highgate history 2011
2015

Released "The Brick"—an 872-page product catalogue. Australia's biggest A/C resource. Because when you lead the industry, you show it.

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2016

Big move to Tonsley. New national distribution centre. Bigger warehouse, faster dispatch, and room for a growing team. Also launched our e-commerce site and mobile apps—giving customers 24/7 access to 7,000+ products.

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2018

Upgraded our site and app with better speed, better search, and deeper listings. Always pushing forward.

Highgate history 2018
2019

Turned 50—and dropped our biggest catalogue yet: 1,076 pages across Auto, Ag, HD, and Trucks. A resource built for serious technicians.

Highgate history 2019
2021

Opened our Perth branch to better serve WA. Same-day and next-day delivery. Faster turnarounds, less downtime. Also launched Airtime magazine—real tools, real advice, and real results for the professionals who keep cabs cool.

Highgate history 2021
2022

Launched SuperFlex HD—our field-ready hose repair system. Built for remote A/C repairs on mining and construction gear. Fast to install. Built to last.

Highgate history 2022
2023

Ran our first hands-on training with Assured Learning. Hosted in Adelaide. Covered variable compressors, R1234yf servicing, and more. Real knowledge, not theory. Became exclusive distributor of TEXA A/C servicing machines for AU + NZ. Industry-leading tech. Integrated MaxOptra to streamline our 5-daily metro runs in Adelaide and Perth. Faster, smarter delivery.

Highgate history 2023
2024

Upgraded our warehouse tech. Improved picking accuracy, faster dispatch, and dependable supply.

Highgate history 2024
2025

Named SIGMA Dealer of the Year. A nod from one of the world's leading manufacturers. Built on results, not promises.

Highgate history 2025