We give test results meaning

Stone Initiatives is the only NATA-accredited laboratory in Australia that specialises in dimension stone. Our testing and consulting service is an asset for the architectural, conservation and building industries. We know that reporting and evaluation should be about more than just numbers, which is why we provide unique insights and meaningful results, saving you time and helping you make the right choices for your valuable project.

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Our services

Mortar testing

We specialise in the analysis of historic coatings, mortar and cement products. Testing and evaluation programs can be compiled from a wide range of tests conforming to standard procedures.

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Heritage services

Heritage architecture, just like ageing humans, requires regular examination and maintenance to ensure optimal performance in its environment. Our qualified, experienced team of multidisciplinary professionals can attend to the needs of your precious buildings and help produce an informed conservation plan.

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New construction

When dimension stone is used for building construction without full knowledge of its properties, problems such as cracking, spalling, staining and decay can occur. The natural variation and uniqueness that makes the stone so appealing can also bring about variability in physical properties. We can help.

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Meet our key personnel

James (Jim) Mann

Principal and Chief Consultant

Jim Mann is the principal and chief consultant at Stone Initiatives. He founded the company in 2003 and has since then guided its growth and development into a leading international dimension stone and materials testing company.

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Kate Tonkin

Materials Testing Specialist – Finishes Evaluation Services

Kate Tonkin oversees the Surface Finish Evaluation department, encompassing slip-resistance, accelerated wear, stain-resistance and sealer selection. She is motivated by seeing how the effective use of dimension stone contributes to outstanding building projects.

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Mark Milevski

Materials Testing Specialist – Heritage Services

Mark Milevski is a geomaterials scientist with an interest in heritage and conservation. He has a Bachelor of Science (Geology, Geophysics and Applied Geology) from the University of Adelaide and a Certificate II in Construction.

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Graham Baggs

Quality Systems and I.T. Coordinator

Graham Baggs supervises the quality systems and information technology administration and maintenance at Stone Initiatives, and assists with more complex testing projects. He has a background in information technology, surveying, cartography and conveyancing.

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Thomas (Tom) Baggs

Technical Officer – Finishes Evaluation Services

Tom Baggs is a geomaterials scientist with an interest in petrology and petrography, involving the detailed study of the composition and structure of rocks. He has a Bachelor of Science (Mineral Geoscience) with First Class Honours from the University of Adelaide.

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Lily Ganegoda

Scientific Officer – Finishes Evaluation Services

Lily Ganegoda is part of our Finishes Evaluation team. She holds a Bachelor of Science and contributes valuable knowledge and experience to the team through her strong background in chemistry.

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Mary Mann

Media and Communications Manager

Mary Mann is a communications specialist with more than fourteen years of experience in media, journalism and editing. She has a Master of Editing and Publishing from Monash University and a Bachelor of Media (Journalism) from Southern Cross University.

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Testimonials

I have worked with Jim for many years (should I say, a few decades) and more recently with Mark, and have always found them to be knowledgeable with regard to all aspects of the materials and properties relating to the dimension stone industry. They are always considered and open with their response.

Gosford Quarries has used the services of Stone Initiatives since the company was first founded and they are always prompt with their estimate of procedures. I recommend them without reservation because of their expertise and service.

Gary Hargreaves, Specification Manager, Gosford Quarries

I can honestly say that in the past 15 years of working with Jim and the team at Stone Initiatives, I have never had a bad experience. I have always found them good to work with, and their technical experience and advice have really helped with many projects we have completed in the past.

We have more trust in the results we receive from Stone Initiatives [compared to other labs], as Jim and the team tend to have a deeper understanding of what we are trying to achieve or want to get out of the testing or analysis. We have recommended Stone Initiatives’ services to both clients and builders.

Dan Blake, Conservation Architect, Conservation Studio

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