Innovating Satellite and RF communication Solutions

Av-Comm was founded by Garry Cratt and was born out of an interest in the new technology of the day : Satellite Television. Av-Comm provided the first domestic Ku Band system in Australia which gave many people their first connection with the world outside of their local community. Garry Cratt is a satellite communications and infrastructure industry expert. He has over 40 years of senior management experience, including executive leadership positions with several industry leading companies and was an influential member of the Dick Smith Electronics management team before establishing Av-Comm in 1981. Garry is also the author of the Practical Guide to Satellite Television, one of the industries most trusted handbooks for satellite installers having sold over 5000 copies Australia wide.

As Chief Executive Officer Michael’s focus has been to reinforce Av-Comm’s position within the local and international market by identifying industries that strategically align with Av-Comm’s technical expertise and infrastructure, with a strong vision on collaborating with our clients and partners to deliver effective solutions in an ever-evolving industry. Having extensive experience across implementation and project management, marketing, systems engineering, and business development. Michael is passionate about the unique needs of Australia’s Space Industry and the design and implementation of satellite communications systems in an industry on the cutting-edge of technical innovation and social connectivity.

Santhan brings over 15 years of operational experience across the Telecommunications, Defence, Manufacturing and Aerospace sections and with a qualification in Mechatronics Engineering, Santhan is dedicated as the COO of Av-Comm towards the strategic execution of the company’s vision and mission. His role involves the scaling of operations through a comprehensive Quality Management Framework that emphasises lean processes and automation, enhancing efficiency across all departments. Santhan is committed to maintaining compliance with ISO standards and security regulations. Santhan also ensures that Av-Comm fosters an inclusive culture and operational excellence, driving productivity and aligning with our strategic goals. While he is not doing operational endeavors he prioritise talent management, overseeing effective recruitment, smooth onboarding, continuous development, and rigorous performance management to build a strong, capable team.

Craig brings over two decades of financial leadership experience to the team. His career includes roles with companies such as SciDev (ASX:SDV), Pitt & Sherry, Hamel Group, Coffey International (ASX:COF), Premier Global Services, Inc (NYSE:PGI) and the Swire Group. His diverse experience spans finance, operations and integration, making him an asset to Av-Comm’s financial success and growth.

Rod is Australia’s foremost expert in large earth station antenna systems, boasting over 40 years of unparalleled experience in installation and commissioning across commercial, defense, and government sectors worldwide. Trained by the world’s leading antenna manufacturers, his proficiency with CPI antenna systems is unmatched. Rod has contributed to notable projects such as the European Space Agency’s Deep Space Network and multiple earth station antennas for Australian and international television broadcasters, making him a pivotal asset in the field of earth station antenna systems.

With over a decade at Av-Comm Space and Defence, Evan Kirk is a seasoned expert in satellite communications, specialising in adaptive and evolving ground station technology and field services. His passion for the field and commitment to staying at the forefront have made him a trusted authority across the Asia pacific region. Beginning his career as a junior field services technician, Evan quickly transitioned into project management, aiding some of the largest government and commercial Earth station antenna installations in the region. Notable projects include Lockheed Martins SBAS program and SES Mpower Asia Pacific Gateway project.