Support for Manufacturing in the Western Downs
(Left to right) QMI CEO Ali Davenport, Western Downs Mayor Andrew Smith, QMI General Manager Nimmi Pushparajan
QMI today announced a brand new program called Shape Western Downs Energy Future. The program involves working directly with the region’s manufacturers to understand their current capability and capacity and then provide support to help enable growth.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith welcomed the partnership and said the 'Shape Western Downs Energy Future' project will strengthen the region's reputation as a recognised leader in manufacturing.
"Collectively, we have more than 120 manufacturing businesses producing world-renowned products including machinery, turbo chargers, and a host of high-grade products for national and international markets," Mayor Smith said.
"The Western Downs is known as 'The Energy Capital of Australia' powering more than two million Australian households every day, supported by our diverse local manufacturing sector.
"The 'Shape Western Downs Energy Future' program will assist our manufacturing sector to leverage our prime location, reliable environmental conditions, and access to high-capacity transmission infrastructure to capitalise on opportunities for sustainable growth and expansion."
QMI Chief Executive Officer, Ali Davenport recognises the importance of the manufacturing sector to the Western Downs.
“Manufacturing is a key pillar of the economy of this region. QMI will be talking to local manufacturers to determine what support they need to access new opportunities. As the Queensland licensee for ICN, QMI can link manufacturers to opportunities right across the country. We’ll also be delivering support initiatives on behalf of the Queensland Government and Western Downs Regional Council”.
The program has been funded through the Regional Economic Futures Fund (REFF). The REFF aims to support long-term community prosperity by facilitating sustainable employment and increasing investment in economic development and diversification projects.
The program will launch with a breakfast event on the 10th May at the Brew Cafe in Dalby.
For Western Downs manufacturers who would like to know more, please contact QMI on info@qldmanufacturing.org.au.
For more information regarding QMI, visit https://www.qldmanufacturinginstitute.org.au/westerndowns
