More than $6.2 million in manufacturing grants delivering 22 projects across Mackay were announced by the state government earlier this month, when Manufacturing Minister, Glenn Butcher, launched Queensland’s second Manufacturing Month at Mackay manufacturer, High Amp Maintenance.
The month-long celebration showcases the achievements of the state’s incredible manufacturing industry which contributes around $20 billion a year to Queensland’s economy and employs around 180,000 Queenslanders.
Leading Mackay welding and fabrication business, High Amp Maintenance has received more than $176,000 in grant funding as part of the state government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program. It is enabling the business to purchase and install CNC fibre laser cutter and integrated management system.
The new equipment and systems will help the business increase production capacity and competitiveness and will see 10 new full-time jobs created.
The State Government has invested more than $240 million in supporting manufacturers across the State, including through Made in Queensland Grants, Manufacturing Hub Grants and the establishment of six Manufacturing Hubs across Queensland, including in Mackay.
Minister Butcher said, “Queensland’s first inaugural Manufacturing Month held in 2023 was so successful we have brought it back!
“High Amp Maintenance are a fantastic example of manufacturers getting to the next level with the support of Government grants.
“We are doing what matters for Queenslanders like backing our incredible manufacturing businesses and Manufacturing Month is an opportunity to highlight just how amazing this state’s manufacturing sector is.”
ALP Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, said she’s looking forward to Mackay manufacturers demonstrating their incredible capabilities during Manufacturing Month.
High Amp Maintenance Director, Lachlan Nielsen said, “We are driven to ensure we’re delivering high quality, proudly Queensland-made products for our customers across the country.
“Having the support of the Queensland Government through the Manufacturing Hub Grants Program has made the purchase and installation of our new 6KW Tube and Sheet laser seamless. This has helped elevate our business and expand our services.
“Not only are we expanding our manufacturing capabilities on the factory floor and creating significant efficiencies, but we’re set to expand our services, workforce, and the skills of our existing staff.”
During Manufacturing Month, the Queensland Government hosts a range of events and opportunities to showcase the Queensland manufacturing sector’s capabilities, and educate business owners to connect and grow their business. This includes:
Inside Advanced Manufacturing: 27 advanced manufacturers across Queensland have opened their doors, to fellow Queensland manufacturers and students to explain how Industry 4.0 technology and techniques have grown their business and career opportunities available in manufacturing.
Queensland Manufacturing Industry Showcase at Parliament House: Almost 40 exhibitors will demonstrate and display their products and capabilities as part of a manufacturing showcase at Queensland’s Parliament House, on 10 September, to an audience of about 300 invited guests.
Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher with ALP Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, High Amp Maintenance Director Lachlan Nielsen and Brittney Nielsen. Photo supplied