In a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie, Mackay's manufacturing landscape is about to witness a futuristic transformation, thanks to an innovative grant from the State Government. Key Solutions Group, a prominent player in the region's industrial sector, is set to revolutionise its operations with the acquisition of not one, but two cutting-edge Motoman AR1440 series welding robots. Alongside these mechanical marvels, the company will also integrate Power-Trac seam finders/trackers and rotary screw compressors, heralding a new era of efficiency and productivity.
This will expand its manufacturing capacity and grow the business, resulting in as many as eight new jobs and upskill 28 current employees.
Key Solutions Group specialises in pipe welding, repairs and component manufacturing and is a major service provider to Mackay’s critical mining and agriculture sectors.
Purchasing this new machinery has been made possible thanks to $500,000 in funding from Round 3 of the Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program.
The equipment is expected to reduce production costs by 30 per cent and generate private sector investment of more than $1.2 million.
Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher and Resources Minister Scott Stewart visited the business last week and said the company’s success demonstrates that the Queensland Government’s commitment to the industry is paying dividends.
“Every time we see a Queensland manufacturer take advantage of these grant programs, I know that it’s a step in the right direction for creating a more resilient and robust manufacturing sector,” Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher said.
“We have helped so many businesses throughout Queensland, just like Key Solutions Group, with leaders who can see an opportunity to expand their factory’s capabilities, an opportunity to secure more clients and grow their business.
“We have heard from many manufacturers that it’s challenging to recruit staff for welding roles and so wherever possible, automation is solving some of those problems.
“It also means staff can be upskilled to new roles and some of those manage the robotic part of the process.”
Key Solutions Group managing director, Frank Attard said that this grant will enable his business to take a major step forward in its growth journey.
“We’ll be able to achieve significantly greater efficiencies in time usage and labour output, which will ultimately result in better service to our growing customer base,” he said.
“The robotic manufacturing facility project will be a key ingredient in our business growth path and we’re looking forward to bringing in more customers with a broader product and service offerings.”
Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher, Key Solutions Group managing director Frank Attard and Resources Minister Scott Stewart
