Gears are in motion to improve profitability, collaboration and waste reduction across the Region's manufacturing industry at the Manufacturers Meet-Up.
The industry engagement was delivered by Rockhampton Regional Council's lead economy development agency, Advance Rockhampton, in partnership with the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub.
Recognising the need to further develop the local manufacturing industry and capitalise on new opportunities, the Manufacturers Meet-Up included an overview of manufacturing in Queensland, the role of the Queensland Manufacturing Hubs and Government engagements, grant funding opportunities and tips to assist small and medium-sized manufacturers to reduce waste.
Manufacturing remains a critical industry for the Rockhampton Region, employing more than 2,245 people across 184 businesses – from food manufacturing to textile and wood production, machinery and transport equipment and everything in between.
Local manufacturers output more than $1.12 billion into the economy each year, the equivalent of more than 10% of Queensland's total manufacturing output.
Council, through Advance Rockhampton, continues to seek new supply chain opportunities in Defence, residential construction and major projects. Rockhampton's comparative affordability, availability of industrial zoned land, transport infrastructure and existing supply chains place local manufacturers in a strong position to increase their capacity to meet demand.
Source: Economy ID, NIEIR, ABS
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams
"Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our economy, relying on talented staff, innovative ideas and quality products which are sent right around the world.
"As Advance Rockhampton focuses on new manufacturing opportunities across Defence, food and beverage production, residential construction, and logistics, our businesses are well placed to seize the momentum and expand their offerings.
"The Manufacturers Meet-Up helps Advance Rockhampton and our partners at the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub understand how we can best support local manufacturers looking towards a bigger and brighter future and provide the skills pathways and supply chain connections to achieve their goals."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub Manager, Kristopher Biddle
"Here in Rockhampton, we have a wide range of businesses manufacturing goods and that could be anything from meat processing through to big machinery builds.
"We want local manufacturers to know that support is available to them, and we share their goals of increasing production and profitability.
"With so many major projects in the pipeline, not only here but right across Queensland, the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub invites any of those businesses to reach out for a discussion around capabilities, collaboration and growth."
