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.

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.

Santhan brings over 15 years of operational experience across the Telecommunications, Defence, Manufacturing and Aerospace sections and with a qualification in Mechatronics Engineering. 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, security regulations, talent management and inclusive culture and operational excellence.

Elango Jeyaraman (EJ) provides a wealth of experience and understanding of Systems Engineering principles and methodologies, with his extensive experience in delivering projects across the Telecommunication, Defence, and Aerospace sectors. His commitment to Systems Engineering best practices is evident, and he is well-positioned to lead the design, development, testing, and delivery of ground station systems that meet customer-specific needs, industry standards, and compliance requirements.

Rod is Australia’s leading large earth station antenna engineer and technician, with over 40 years of installation and commissioning experience around the world for commercial, Defence and government systems. Trained by the world’s leading antenna manufacturers, his expertise with complex antenna systems is unmatched in the region.  

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.

Along with a decade of global satellite operator experience in the Asia Pacific region, Ben has honed his expertise in both public and private sector roles within the IT&T industry. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Business and Marketing, which complements his professional endeavours. Ben is deeply passionate about shaping and executing sales strategies and marketing initiatives. He is particularly focused on identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities in emerging markets, driving our mission to expand and innovate in the space sector.

Nick is an accomplished PMO Director with a proven track record delivering complex, high-value programs across Aviation, Defence, and petrochemical sectors as a Senior Program and Senior Project Manager. With over a decade of experience at Airservices Australia, Nick has successfully driven operational transformation, managed large-scale budgets, and led high-performing teams to deliver results in challenging environments. Some of Nick’s qualifications include an Executive Master of Business Administration (Exec MBA), a Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM), an Advance Diploma in Program Management and a Diploma of Business.