Three central Queensland manufacturers are upgrading their work practices and creating more jobs for Queenslanders after securing more than $1 million in combined funding from the Palaszczuk Government.
Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke said the $46 million Made in Queensland (MiQ) grants program invested in manufacturing businesses now to help them grow in the future.
"Combined, this funding will create 27 new jobs between Rockhampton and Mirani, which is great news for central Queensland," Mr O'Rourke said.
"Dobinsons Spring and Suspension here in Rocky will use their $592,000 grant to purchase an advanced cold coiling machine and furnace, which will push their daily coil spring output from 400 to 2000 and will create 12 new jobs.
"This is a multi-generational manufacturing company, exporting quality Queensland products all around the globe.
"MiQ funding will help make Dobinsons more internationally competitive, showing the world exactly what Queenslanders can deliver when it comes to advanced manufacturing and design."
Dobinsons Spring & Suspension Director Glen Dobinson said the company has a long history of manufacturing automotive parts for the private and heavy vehicle markets.
"This funding will help us increase our productivity and employ more locals," Mr Dobinson said.
"This company was started back in the 1950s by my father Reg, a hard-working blacksmith, and now I'm proud that we're well and truly moving Dobinsons into the future."
Two other manufacturers in the region also received MiQ funding:
- Capricorn Sandstone Quarries, Stanwell: $252,198
Leading-edge splitting and veneer cutting equipment will improve productivity and allow the company to onshore production for in-demand products. Eight new jobs.
- NQ Cranes, Paget: $161,370
Modernisation of manufacturing systems to improve operations and maximise productivity. Seven new jobs.
Minister for Manufacturing Cameron Dick said MiQ is helping local manufacturers expand, upskill and employ.
"Since 2017 the Palaszczuk Government has supported around 75 projects across Queensland through MiQ," Mr Dick said.
"The grants, which are matched by the manufacturers, will help create more than 930 new jobs over the next five years and are expected to generate approximately $92 million in private sector investment."
Shortlisted applicants for MiQ Round 3 will be invited to submit detailed applications in November.
MiQ complements the Queensland Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan. To learn more visit the Made in Queensland webpage.
