Local innovations in the spotlight for Queensland Manufacturing Month

Australian manufacturing is in the spotlight this September, as Queensland Manufacturing Month puts on a show to promote the state’s homegrown innovations and advanced technologies.

The Queensland Government’s statewide program includes a series of events and opportunities that celebrate the state’s manufacturing sector, including regional networking events to connect local manufacturers, an online Integrated Manufacturing Systems Masterclass, as well as Women in Manufacturing breakfasts in Moreton Bay, Cairns, Gladstone, Rockhampton and Mackay.

Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said Queensland Manufacturing Month was the perfect time to highlight innovation across the sector and promote jobs to the next generation of Queenslanders.

One of the local businesses that joined in the fun was Aussie Switchboards – a Gold Coast-based manufacturer of low voltage power distribution boards, main switchboards, meter panels and motor control centres.

With a team of 60 working at the facility in Molendinar, the company manufactures switchboards that are up to date with the latest market trends, performance standards and innovations in the vast, dynamic world of electrical engineering.

Operating from their modern 2,000 m² workshop, Aussie Switchboards offer a complete turn-key service for their mostly South-East Queensland-based clients - from engineering and in-house sheet-metal fabrication to assembly and final testing.

Aussie Switchboards opened their doors to the community as part of the Inside Advanced Manufacturing Tour, putting their local manufacturing innovations and technologies proudly on display for Queenslanders to see.

Director Roy Barnes said Aussie Switchboards was proud to participate in Queensland Manufacturing Month.

"For over 24 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to industry knowledge and leadership, and that begins with collaboration with the entire manufacturing sector," said Barnes.

"We’re proud participants of educating future tradespeople and to have hosted Nerang High School – and showing what Aussie Switchboards is all about.

We’ve had tremendous growth in recent years, and that’s started with the great team we have and our constant efforts in being ahead of the innovative curve. As we continue to grow, we’re excited to see the new talent that comes through our doors, and support that through education and teamwork."

Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said it was great to see local manufacturers like Aussie Switchboards celebrated.

“It’s great to see Queensland manufacturers highlighted in this way. Aussie Switchboards is a great example of the hard work, dedication, and quality that Australian manufacturers are known for.”

“It’s important to support our manufacturers as they put in decades of development, innovation, and research into making quality products in Australia.

When you buy Australian Made products, you are helping to employ thousands of Australians across all areas of the supply chain, strengthen local industries and support local communities,” said Lazzaro.

Learn more about Queensland Manufacturing Month at the Queensland Government website.