With manufacturing facing an unprecedented onslaught of cyberattacks, investment in cybersecurity has never been more important. But now there is one more reason – and a very personal one for directors: the growing risk of serious penalties and even jail time in cases of gross negligence.
The federal government has been ramping up privacy and cybersecurity rules in recent years,
most recently with the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme and the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act.
Harsh penalties cannot be dismissed as a problem just for big businesses. Companies with turnovers of $3 million or more can be subject to fines of up to $50 million for the business, with directors liable for up to $2.5 million, removal from the board, or even imprisonment for gross negligence leading to significant financial loss or damage to shareholder value.
Authorities are gearing up for enforcement, with ASIC Chairman Joe Longo telling The Australian Financial Review Cyber Summit in September 2023 that “cyber resilience has got to Continues on page 14
Australian IT consulting company, Central Innovation provides a platform for innovative thinking through ‘Thought Leadership’ event.
An inaugural event held in Victoria and attended by over 100 delegates from a variety of local businesses showcased an enlightening resource of high caliber experts in innovative and lateral thinking. The event addressed some of the most burning questions that keep technical and business leaders awake at night. Continues on page 16
Cyber Security Presenter: Shane Williams
Shannon Reshno, Chief Operating Officer, Central Innovations
General Mills Australia named Great Place to Work® for fifth consecutive year
Creating a workplace culture where employees feel valued and gain satisfaction from their work takes commitment, consistency and great leadership. General Mills Australia (GMA) fits the bill.
For the fifth consecutive year, it’s been certified as a Great Place To Work® (GPTW) at both its sites; Melbourne’s corporate office and Sydney’s manufacturing operation in Rooty Hill.
GMA is part of one of the world’s largest food companies, with products including Old El Paso and Latina Fresh pasta. GPTW is a global authority on workplace culture, the GPTW Certification is a definitive recognition of an ‘employer-of-choice’, based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience.
GMA was recognised as a great place to work by 85% of its employees, surpassing the average rating, 56%,
for Australian-based companies.
More than 90% of staff recognised GMA as a fair and equitable employer when it comes to gender, race and sexual orientation, while 95% said it is a welcoming and physically safe workplace.
Employee satisfaction has surged within the manufacturing team, with staff reporting an 81%satisfaction rate, an eight-point improvement from the previous year, cementing GMAas a leading employer within the FMCG industry.
Employees also highlighted the business’s commitment to flexible work as a key factor influencing their score. It offers a ‘work where you win’ hybrid working policy of a 50/50 hybrid work split.
GMA Director of human resources Shontel Turner is delighted by the certification.
“At GMA, we champion remarkable, hard-working people and so
we’re thrilled, but not surprised, to be recognised as a GPTW for the fifth consecutive year,” she said.
“This certification is a testament to our people. Our people enable us to create a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported and empowered to thrive
“We also pride ourselves on our ‘Work with Heart’ philosophy. Developed here in Australia, and then adopted globally, the Work with Heart initiative enables our team to thrive in both their personal
and professional lives by encouraging our people to work 50% of their time at home and 50%of their time in the office. This flexibility enables our people to always give their best. This creates high performing teams, which directly correlates with strong business results.”
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Could Penrith become NSW’s newest manufacturing epicentre?
Manufactor is an innovation hub within Penrith’s historic Crane Enfield Metals building.
The previously dormant industrial site has already attracted 12
local manufacturing businesses and founder John Joannou wants to encourage more companies to look at manufacturing locally.
Panthers football star Nathan Cleary is taking advantage of the opportunity. He is a part owner — along with UFC fighters Tai ‘Bam Bam’ Tuivasa and Tyson Pedroof — of the Drink West brewery that’s operational on-site.
By showcasing the potential of local manufacturing, Manufactor is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs, craftsmen, innovators and food manufacturers who are taking up the call to produce and sell locally.
At Manufactor, products are crafted and sold directly to the local community.
Diversified property group Aon
Ari Property is leading the ongoing redevelopment of the facility, having already invested $100 million in its transformation.
In addition to the Drink West onsite brewery, Manufactor is shaping up to be a food and drink destination hub with other local innovators taking up residency at the site.
Brisket Boys offer an authentic taste of American barbecue whilst Flappy’s Fried Chicken produce Louisiana-style fried chicken that’s so good it’s gone viral. Burger Point cook up American-style burgers with a Filipino twist, Harvest B create plant-based proteins, Montecatini Smallgoods produce small goods made using Italian curing methods and soon to open the doors is Ribs and Roast, the sous
vide specialists in the region. Beyond the F&B available on site, Manufactor is also establishing itself as a location to find premium innovators and makers, such as We Love Parquet, a company specialising in the supplying and installation of premium solid wood flooring.
Manufactor is part of a local movement that is already well on its way to bringing innovation and manufacturing into the heart of Sydney’s West.
Manufactor is located at 2115-2131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith.
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DEFENCE EDITOR
Challenges facing Australian Defence businesses
Businesses working within the Australian Defence sector are trying to digest large and frequent amounts of official Defence information. Their success relies heavily on how effectively business leaders can navigate the official Defence guidance. There is a level of business uncertainty within Defence that has been relevant to the sector for decades.
In that context, the nuclear submarine program under AUKUS Pillar 1 has placed significant pressure on the budget process. Prior funding allocations have been reviewed and hard decisions made to cancel or delay programs and associated spending. New initiatives, including those proposed by the Defence business sector are not being considered while a heavy culling process is underway.
Many Australian defence businesses are struggling, even though there are major programs like nuclear submarines, ships, F-35s and the Guided Weapons & Explosive Ordinance Enterprise. Additionally, the global threat landscape is transparent for anyone paying attention to the multiple conflicts from China, Russia, Iran (and proxies) and North Korea.
While the Government articulated a defined vision through the Defence Strategic Review (DSR)
ordnance capabilities
• Northern bases: Strengthening infrastructure in northern Australia
• The Defence Industry Development Strategy emphasising the need for a skilled workforce Innovation is a trademark of emerging successful businesses but it’s not a typically viable Defence approach for new entrants. Defence is slow to adopt innovation not channelled through the Defence Primes as part of a major acquisition. Tight budget environments make it difficult to find a funded Defence client. You will easily identify interest but are challenged to identify a champion with budget. The Advanced Strategic Capability Accelerator has been established to address this innovation pull from Defence, but it is early days.
in early 2023 to address the global strategic threat landscape, spending on Defence has not been occurring and business strategies are coming undone.
This uncertainty cycle will improve, but businesses need a coping strategy. The documents business should be reading are the recent Surface Fleet Review, the 2024 National Defence Strategy (NDS), the Defence Portfolio Budget Statements 2024-25, and the 2024 Integrated Investment Program (IIP). The budget and IIP are specifically linked to the NDS objectives.
Importantly, the Government’s ‘generational investment’ in the nation’s defence capabilities over the next decade won’t come cheap, with the NDS and IIP promising the allocation of $330 billion over the decade to 2033-34.
This will also see the nation’s Defence budget hit $100 billion by the end of the decade to 203334 and will come as a result of an additional $5.7 billion over the forward estimates and an additional $50.3 billion invested over the next decade. This expanded spending will see Australia’s defence spend rise to 2.3% of the nation’s gross domestic product by 2033-34. Bi-partisan support for this strategy over the decade is yet to be gained, which adds more uncertainty for industry.
The recent May 14 budget identifies a record spend of $55.7 billion on Defence during the next fiscal year. $33.9 billion is budgeted for acquisition and sustainment of existing assets in 2024-25, increasing to $43.2 billion by 2027-28. The Defence Portfolio Budget Statement further breaks down the 2024-25 budgets across Army at $11.7 billion, Navy at $10.7 billion and Air Force at $9.5 billion. Nuclear powered submarines will see $2.8 billion increasing to $4.97 billion by 2027-28.
While it is great to have budget intent, the IIP also adds some context. The Maritime sector will receive 38%, Land 16% and Air 14% of the budgeted investment over the next decade. 17% of the planned investment through 2034 is allocated to undersea warfare.
The 2024 IIP outlines significant opportunities for Australian businesses engaged in the defence sector. Defence spending will aim to bolster Australia’s defence capabilities across multiple domains including maritime, land, air, space and cyber.
Businesses would be wise to seek alignment with clearly articulated strategic priorities:
• Submarine capability: A major focus on conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines
• Long-range strike: Enhancement of guided weapons and explosive
“Spending on Defence has not been occurring and business strategies are coming undone.”
While individual business strategies are unique, this is what I think companies looking to enter the Defence environment show consider:
• Align R&D and capabilities: Focus on areas prioritised by the IIP; some examples being undersea warfare, unmanned systems, long range strike and Artificial Intelligence systems. Confirm your business area of expertise aligns with future funding intent
• Invest in workforce development: Develop or participate in training programs to build a skilled workforce in key areas where you can confirm growth
• Strengthen supply chains: Enhance resilience through diversification and robust supply chain management. Become part of the Defence Prime supplier networks
• Engage in Strategic Partnerships: Actively seek partnerships within the AUKUS framework and other international alliances
• Diversify: Uncertainty and delays are intrinsic to the defence business sector. Ensure your cash flow inputs are resilient and diversified
By retired Air Commodore and Chairman of Hunter Defence, Tim Owen
DEFENCE INDUSTRY
$30m for locally manufactured body armour
Queensland-based Craig International Ballistics (CIB) has received a $30 million order from the federal government for body armour for Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel, to wear, including in combat and counter-terrorism operations.
The government believes the order demonstrates its commitment to supporting local,
small-to-medium manufacturing enterprises and a future made in Australia.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the government is proud to be supporting a CI, a home-grown success story which manufactures locally and employs Queenslanders including veterans.
“This order … is a prime example under the Defence Industry
Development Strategy of how the government is supporting our Sovereign Defence Industrial Base and a future made in Australia,” Minister Conroy said.
“From peacekeeping operations through to conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Craig International Ballistics has been protecting Australian Defence Force personnel with their world-class body armour for almost two decades.”
CIB has already supplied over 600,000 high-quality, body armour components for the ADF. It will manufacture and deliver a new order of body armour components to help protect troops from moving threats like fragmentation, and low- and high-velocity rounds.
The company is a leading supplier of ballistic protection to the ADF and Police Forces, including ballistic protection panels, armoured vehicles, structural armour, tactical shields and body armour.
CIB’s experience in high-quality composite ballistic panel manufacture and its skills in onsite armour plate
pressing, water jet cutting and plate coatings helped it expand from personal protection to developing armour for land forces’ protected mobility vehicles, naval frigates, military transport aircraft and helicopters.
CIB has applied Industry 4.0 advanced manufacturing techniques including 3D design systems, multiaxis cutting machines, computerised pressing equipment and onsite test facilities. Its close integration of R&D, fabrication and testing allows CIB to quickly exploit new materials, fabrics or production techniques.
Supported by its relationships with facets of the ADF, CIB’s proven processes enable design and manufacture of new armour protection within only a few weeks.
The company has also invested in advanced robotic X-ray equipment suitable for non-destructive testing of body armour. CIB can now inspect, refurbish and re-certify in-service body armour — returning these to an as-new state at a cost significantly less than purchasing a replacement body armour set.
DroneShield triples R&D and manufacturing capacity to $400m
DroneShield’s new global headquarters and manufacturing site in Sydney cements and scales its fully sovereign R&D and manufacturing capabilities.
The Pyrmont site will triple its capacity to more than $400million in hardware and software per year.
DroneShield provides AI-based platforms for protection against advanced threats such as drones and autonomous systems. It is the second largest publicly-listed defence company in Australia.
DroneShield CEO Oleg Vornik said the company is working on more than 90 qualified projects at
different stages, with $27m in orders currently being fulfilled.
“The threats that drones can pose are finally being taken seriously,” Vornki said.
“Whether it’s due to the turmoil they can cause on the battlefield, or the countless ways they can disrupt everyday life — at airports, prisons and public events, for example — drone deterrence is now a priority for government agencies and authorities, in Australia and abroad.
“We are seeing a major push for comprehensive counter-drone and counter-UAS capabilities, predominately from the US, but
broadly across Five Eyes and allies, and slowly but surely in Australia. However, our equipment is sophisticated, AI based technology that can take up to four months to build, containing up to 200 components that must be manufactured, assembled and quality controlled.
“Supply chain and inventory certainty is critical, and we are leveraging funds from the $115m capital raise to enable us to create upwards of $400m in equipment per year — all within Australia, at the new facility, as a truly sovereign defence supplier — for global customers that expect high performance equipment
to be available right away.”
The 2,000 square metre facility will gear DroneShield to convert a sales pipeline of over $500m, house 120 Australian staff — set to expand by 40 this year — and have a dedicated floor for R&D, engineering and manufacturing of its sovereign, in-house AI and machine learning engines and capabilities.
Funded by DroneShield’s recent $115m capital raise, the facilities will enable it to expedite inventory build-up to support demand from opportunities across government, defence and commercial customers in 70 countries. DroneShield
Australian Army Private Ashley Gardiner wears CIB body armour under his khakis on Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 in Townsville.. Photo - ADF
FROM THE MINISTER
Manufacturing a Future Made in Australia
The Australian Government has taken significant steps in the past two years to revive this country’s ability to make worldclass products.
At the outset of our mission in 2022, we recognised that building out manufacturing in Australia after decades of contraction needed careful policy consideration and the right investment settings.
But we also understood our talents in R&D, innovation and commercialisation gave us a head start — and that by leveraging these skills, and our abundant natural resources, we could not only revive manufacturing capability but create new advanced industries.
Our primary vehicle to restart manufacturing, the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund Corporation, is now welcoming proposals to drive investment,
innovation and growth in sectors where Australia has strong comparative advantages, including:
• Renewables and low emission technologies
• Medical manufacturing
• Transport
• Value adding in resources
• Value-adding in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food and fibre
• Defence capabilities
• Enabling capabilities (such as AI and robotics)
Also open for business is our $392 million Industry Growth Program designed to support Australian startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) get their innovative ideas off the ground and grow their businesses.
The $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia plan at the centre of our May Federal Budget will build further on these investments.
The objectives of the Future Made in Australia plan are two-fold: maximising the economic and industrial benefits of the net zero transformation and securing Australia’s place in a changing global economic and strategic landscape.
To ensure decision-making around public investment in priority industries is prudent and effective, the Australian Government will legislate a Future Made in Australia Act and establish a National Interest Framework.
These priority industries will comprise two streams that:
• Are critical to economic security and resilience, are vulnerable to supply disruptions and that require support to unlock sufficient private investment
• Can contribute to achieving net zero and in which Australia has the means to build an enduring competitive advantage
Better batteries
Building competitive clean energy manufacturing capabilities, particularly around batteries, will not only shore up Australia’s economic resilience but get us to net zero sooner.
The Australian Government is committed to building a thriving domestic battery industry — not least because global demand for batteries for electric vehicles, stationary energy storage and other applications is expected to quadruple by 2030 as the world leaves fossil fuels behind.
Our Budget has earmarked $532.2 million over seven years to establish the Battery Breakthrough Initiative.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic
This initiative, which the Australian Renewable Energy Authority will administer, will promote the development of battery manufacturing capabilities through production incentives targeted at the highest value opportunities in the supply chain.
There is funding in the Budget of $20.3 million to incentivise innovative battery research, including support for the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre to deliver industry guidelines and standards.
Following the Budget, we released the nation’s first Battery Strategy.
This will build on Australia’s existing strengths, providing a pathway to move up the battery value chain and capitalise on key opportunities — such as manufacturing stationary energy storage systems and higher value battery active materials, building battery safety and security and continuing to develop emerging battery chemistries.
Australia’s ability to make worldclass products has never been in doubt, but doubling down in areas like batteries will move us to high-end manufacturing that captures more value from our natural resources, boosts long term productivity and creates well-paying jobs.
Ed Husic at Energy Renaissance, Newcastle
TIM LIGHTFOOT, MITS ALLOY, NEWCASTLE, NSW
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The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) recently invited senior representatives from the Labor and Liberal parties to answer the hard questions regarding issues facing small to medium enterprises (SMEs), including:
• Increases in a range of financial and incentive-crippling taxes
• Increased Workcare premiums
• Apprenticeships and skill shortages
• Energy cost and supply
• Land Tax impositions
Attended by around 20 leaders of local industry, the results of these discussions were disappointing, to say the least.
“When are governments, State and Federal, going to realise the vital contribution small to medium businesses make to employment, the financial state, and the industrial future of the entire country, rather than treating us as an ever-increasing source of revenue?” a SEMMA spokesperson said.
“Australian industry must be embraced and encouraged to establish, prosper, and grow to
compete in local and global markets through operational affordability, opportunity, and innovation.”
When taking questions from the group, new Victorian Minister for Industry, Natalie Hutchins, appeared naive to the complexities of manufacturing and industry in general, responding only with platitudes while making no suggestions or promises to find resolutions.
Minister Hutchins did not take up an offer to tour the Hilton manufacturing site, limiting her time to a total of 45 minutes. She offered to visit again sometime.
Another meeting was held with the Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto, and Shadow Minister for Industry, Bridget Valance.
They were open to hearing the challenges facing SMEs; however, no specific policies or solutions were forthcoming. Mr. Pesutto said they were still developing their policies in regard to industrial matters and acknowledged the need to address the problems discussed.
He stated that he was aware of the issues with current energy supply programs and suggested his party (if elected) would develop a policy that considered all users, now and into the future, as we face the net-zero proposition.
Regarding skill shortages, Mr. Pesutto was open to suggestions from the floor in regard to increased payments for apprentices rather than reducing them, as has occurred under the Allan Labor Government. Both politicians were happy to tour the Hilton site.
Even after such a disappointing and non-productive round of talks, SEMMA members have resolved to persevere with such events. Although it is difficult to get a definitive answer from politicians, SEMMA will continue to push for
Opposition Ministers tour Hilton Plant
clarification on policies, provide submissions, and meet with political leaders to raise critical issues confronting its members and all SMEs.
Victorian Government taxes are squeezing out SMEs
According to the Allan Labor Government Treasurer, Tim
Pallas, the latest round of taxes —
The Commercial and Industrial Property Tax — “Will be set at a single flat rate of 1% of a property’s unimproved land value; there are no complicated graduated rates, and exemptions that apply to land tax will also apply. Administration will also be similar to arrangements for
land tax, to streamline compliance.”
We at SEMMA are aware this means the Valuer General Victoria will manage the process. The same process for Land Tax, the VGV, also calculates the value of land which leads to increased land tax fees. VGV will therefore have carte blanche authority to increase the (assumed) value of the unimproved land (year on year).
Don’t be fooled by the line “a single flat rate of 1% of a property’s unimproved value.” They will charge based on the unimproved value, which will be indexed and will increase year-on-year against whatever levers they can use: inflation, CPI, and the general excuse that “land values have increased across the board in Victoria.”
Even though the government is offering a loan of that value, a loan that will be payable in 10 years or can be paid in instalments, it’s murky and the goalposts are moving. It’s all smoke and mirrors from the Treasurer.
SEMMA members believe the increase in land taxes, WorkCover premiums, and payroll tax will do the following:
• Squeeze out smaller manufacturers who can’t afford a huge increase in land tax
• Reduce capital investment by businesses, thereby reducing growth and employment
• Increase production costs, which means the cost of consumer goods will rise
It seems to SEMMA that the Victorian Government is hell-bent on making sure small business goes out of business, despite the sector employing 90% of Victorians.
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Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto and Shadow Mininster for Industry, Bridget Valance
SEMMA representatives meet with leading politicians
INDUSTRY NEWS
Gaol for negligent directors: manufacturing SMEs must take cybersecurity seriously or pay the price
be a top priority.”
“If things go wrong, ASIC will be looking for the right case where company directors and boards failed to take reasonable steps, or make reasonable investments proportionate to the risks that their business poses,” Mr Longo said.
“I can assure you that in the right case ASIC will commence proceedings if we have reason to believe those steps were not taken.”
Outsourcing your IT will not necessarily be a get out of jail free card. There are circumstances when the company or its directors can still be held accountable.
A problem for manufacturers
Manufacturers tend to focus on making things. But it’s imperative they also protect their data because they are extremely susceptible to cybercrime.
According to IBM’s X-Force Threat Intelligence Report, manufacturing has the dubious honour of being the most-attacked industry
by cybercriminals — for the third consecutive year. The report found that last year, manufacturers made up more than 25% of security incidents. Malware attacks, which include ransomware, were the most common.
According to IBM’s report, security fundamentals such as patching, multi-factor authentication, or least-privilege principles can prevent 85% of incidents. But manufacturers are not always doing these things. This points to serious breaches in cybersecurity for the industry. The reason 34% of manufacturers pay a ransom? They can’t afford downtime.
Practical measures
In a marker of the urgency around cybersecurity, “Cybersecurity Strategies for SME Manufacturers” featured as the closing keynote at the Central Innovations inaugural Manufacturing Innovation Thought Leadership Conference in May. Strategic Adviser to Corporate IT
and manufacturing Shane Williams talked about how SME manufacturers can navigate the complexities of digital transformation and the imperative for robust cybersecurity measures. Issues such as data protection, secure communication, and developing effective cybersecurity strategies were discussed, along with practical steps for safeguarding digital assets without requiring deep technical knowledge.
He gave the example of a cyberattack where a phishing email reached a company’s finance department, intercepting an invoice resulting in payment to a different bank account. Once the client found out, they shut down their account. Because of a long-standing relationship, the company recovered. Eventually.
“It took them two years to get back their market share from one incident that lasted for one day, for one invoice,” Mr Williams said.
“It’s not the $15,000 invoice that’s the problem or the $20,000 in forensic
Continued from front page
IT to fix it; it’s two years’ worth of lost revenue from your biggest customer and the reputational damage.”
Mr Williams’s talk was a wake-up call – one industry must heed.
Shane Williams’s four simple steps all companies should take to prevent cyber attacks:
• Create a cybersecurity strategy.
• Commit to a roadmap for addressing the risks.
• Invest relative to your risk profile.
• Investigate cyber insurance.
Cyber Security for Manufacturers’ Legacy OT Systems
Cyber security firm Logi-Tech has partnered with Aria Cybersecurity in the US to establish a local 24/7 security operations centre (SOC) in Adelaide. This centre supports Australian clients using Aria products, including the new AZT PROTECT, designed to secure older, legacy systems critical to manufacturers’ operational technology (OT).
Logi-Tech’s Managing Director Peter Moore, backed by years of experience in the Australian
Defence Force (ADF), serves a clientele that includes critical infrastructure, energy, state and federal government agencies, the ADF, and affiliated companies. With 38 years of ICT and security expertise, Logi-Tech already distributes Aria’s Advanced Detection and Response (ADR) system and now supports AZT PROTECT, which targets threats to legacy industrial systems.
Aria, a division of the 68-year-old publicly listed CSP Inc, originally built radars for US defence agencies and has since collaborated with top defence intelligence agencies globally.
Moore emphasises the importance of keeping data and security operations within Australia to maintain data sovereignty compliance and enhance security. “Setting up Aria’s customers’ data here in Logi-Tech’s Adelaide data centre ensures data doesn’t leave the country. This reinforces not only an organisation’s security but also its data sovereignty and governance,” Moore said.
Unlike other platforms where data is analysed overseas, Logi-Tech’s
centre handles local customer data beginning in March, coinciding with the availability of AZT PROTECT for older OT environments.
The Adelaide SOC, trained by Aria’s US team, is initially relying on the US SOC’s expertise to interpret data and flag potential cyber threats. Aria’s ADR uses AI, machine learning, and behavioural models to offer automated threat detection, isolation, and containment within seconds. “Competitor products offer detection and sometimes containment within one to three hours,” noted Aria’s Vice President and General Manager, Gary Southwell.
“Industry attitudes have changed since intrusions by DarkSide,” Southwell explained, referencing the 2021 cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline. “Bigger manufacturers now understand the ramifications of inadequate cybersecurity.”
Aria’s ADR is designed to deliver immediate containment. “If companies’ processes go down, they know it could lose them a million dollars a day. They need detection and
ARIA AZT PROTECT
The next-generation cybersecurity solution for OT networks
A revolutionary AI-driven defence mechanism for OT endpoints, protecting against both known and unknown cybersecurity threats. This solution is designed to secure your OT device infrastructure and critical IT applications, automatically blocking exploits at both the application and OS levels without the need for continuous patching.
The AZT Trust Agent protects the OT network perimeter on all endpoint devices, consuming less than 2% of CPU and does not require internet connectivity.
The AZT Trust Center provides a unified view of all endpoints and site locations for control and monitoring.
containment within minutes, not hours or days,” Southwell said.
The new AZT PROTECT addresses the challenges faced by manufacturers with outdated OT environments that cannot integrate traditional IT-level security products. Aria’s SOC team interprets data, scopes threats, and advises clients on a comprehensive security solution.
After a short initial period with support from Aria’s US SOC, the Adelaide SOC will independently monitor and investigate threats, manage alerts, and advise clients on prevention and response.
“The beauty of Aria compared to the rest is that it deploys easily, offering visibility and manageability to users,” Moore stated. Southwell added, “We’re an open book for clients: they can see how we handle alerts and new behaviours, and ask us about ongoing activities.”
Comprehensive Protection
It guards against all cybersecurity threats, including zero-day attacks, by understanding and allowing only known good applications and processes.
Operational Efficiency
AZT PROTECT is autonomous, requires no cloud updates to block new attacks, and is lightweight enough to be deployed on legacy OT equipment.
Future-Proof Security
By making application vulnerabilities and patching nearly irrelevant, AZT PROTECT offers a forward-looking approach to cybersecurity, keeping OT networks safe from the most advanced threats without the need for specialized cybersecurity staff.
VIEW WEBINAR
CybeRx - How to Automatically Protect Rockwell OT Customers from Today’s Cyber-Attacks
- Peter
Peter Moore, Logi-Tech’s Managing Director
Talk about innovation!
Continued from front page
Speakers and subjects included:
• AI Integration to Business Operations:
Guru Rao: Ex-New Product Development, Actron Air.
• Think differently: Decision intelligence for your customers
Dr Roger Moser: Chaiman SatSure & senior lecturer, Macquarie University.
Pieter de Coning: Engineering manager, Air Radiators.
• Cybersecurity strategies for SME Manufacturers
Shane Williams: Strategic advisor to Corporate IT & Manufacturing. With a realization that innovation is the center point of everything that leads to growth in industry, Central Innovation have evolved from the company that first brought 3D design software to Australia to a solutions company assisting the manufacturing industry with maximizing their tech stack, developing people rolls and stimulation and increasing values of data management, collaboration and simulation.
This realization led to Central Innovation instigating the creation of a a common platform for industry to seek guidance and support from our wealth of industry leaders who may have solved challenges themselves and are open to sharing this knowledge with their fellow professionals.
The ‘Manufacturing Innovation Thought Leadership’ event was born to bring together some of the best minds in manufacturing technology and industry leaders at a forum that
Our mechanical and manufacturing expertise will support your team from CAPEX justification to full implementation.
Manufacturing And Design
Project
Experienced in the following industries:
• Aerospace • Automotive
• Medical
• Pharmaceutical
• Building
• Food • and others
focused on products or a singular problem, and that is not enough.”
“We were fortunate that the idea resonated really well with the industry leaders that we reached out to and this event came to fruition. The format allowed for listening to an amazing line-up of speakers, breaks for discussions and networking with industry leaders from leading organisations, to allow for sufficient time for stimulating discussions and learning.
Shannon Reshno, Chief Operating Officer, Central Innovation said:
“Industry 4.0 is knocking on our doors and we have to find ways to be innovative. It’s no longer a choice, but a business imperative that we find ways to become more efficient, improve collaboration, get better products to market faster than ever. And this unique thinking to constantly innovate requires support to overcome the challenges it brings with it. This event was our first attempt to provide a support system and we’re here to help. If you’re thinking of innovation and need a partner in this journey, I encourage you to reach out.”
Since 1990, Central Innovation has assisted Australian businesses
encouraged open discussion and creative thinking on a host of issues effecting the establishment and growth of companies in Australia. The presentations are available for anyone to watch, learn and share.
Manisha Chand, Head of Marketing at Central Innovation stated: “We found that Australia did not have any platform that focused on bringing technology and business leaders in manufacturing together at scale. Most events or discussions are
through streamlining design technology, complex design challenges, customised training and consulting solutions that align with current and future industry needs.
With the great success of this first event, Central Innovation intends to continue to foster the essence of such cooperation between Australia’s leading industry professionals and the wider business community. We, at Industry Update say: “Watch this space!”.
Attendees enjoying a thought-provoking presentation on AI in Operations
It’s a wrap: Presenters with Central Innovations leadership team after a successful event
FROM THE SHADOW MINISTER
Worsening vital signs of Australian economy should concern us all
The past two years have seen a significant deterioration in the Australian economy, with local businesses, builders, manufacturers, and small businesses bearing the brunt.
Those that hoped the Federal Budget would deliver a plan to get Australia back on track were sadly disappointed. Outside of the Parliament, in the real world, Australian businesses are going to the wall because their power bills and other input costs have become unaffordable.
Australia is in the grips of an insolvency crisis. According to the official Australian insolvency statistics, insolvencies across construction and manufacturing have already exceeded 2022-23 levels. This underscores an increasing rate of insolvencies across the Australian economy, which were already three times higher than the same period just two years ago.
We know businesses are going bust and it will only get worse.
According to CreditorWatch’s Business Risk Index, one in 13 Australian hospitality businesses are facing failure in the next 12 months. This is attributed to the sector’s exposure to discretionary spending of consumers, which has “dried up as cost-of-living pressures mount”.
As CreditorWatch notes, hospitality businesses such as restaurants have been hit hard by cost pressures, with higher-than-ever power prices and cost of ingredients combining with weaker consumer spending. This report indicates that Western Sydney and South-East Queensland are the regions with the highest risk of business failures. What happens at the consumer end will flow up the supply chain.
CreditorWatch has also found that business-to-business (B2B) payment defaults have hit a record high and are up 69.4% year-on-year, as businesses struggle to pay invoices. Their analysis shows a strong correlation between B2B payment
defaults and business failure.
We also know that the energy crisis is killing Australian businesses. According to research commissioned by Energy Consumers Australia and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), energy hardship and financial strain is now hitting small businesses harder than COVID-19. One in five small businesses are struggling to pay their energy bills on time, and nearly half of small businesses are concerned about their ability to pay future energy bills. More than one in three small to medium-sized enterprises have experienced energy hardship during the past 12 months. Rising energy costs are the number one factor that has impacted businesses’ financial situation in the last 12 months.
In the face of a deteriorating economy, COSBOA was absolutely right to ask for more from the Budget. As businesses struggle to pay their power bills, which have risen by thousands of dollars, the government’s response has been to give them $325, spread quarterly. The sector has rightly indicated this “won’t even touch the sides”.
The truth is we need to get back to basics if Australian manufacturing is going to be globally competitive. We need to get power prices down, and we need to speed up approval processes to get the government working for business, not the other way around. We need to remove red tape so our manufacturers can get back to manufacturing.
I am committed to backing you and getting Australia back on track.
Federal Budget 2024: Key benefits for manufacturers
The Federal Budget 2024 introduces pivotal measures that promise significant opportunities for the Australian manufacturing sector. These initiatives provide avenues for growth, innovation and sustainability, positioning manufacturers for future success.
Here’s an overview of these benefits and the steps manufacturers can take to maximise them.
Future Made in Australia Act
The $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia Act is a cornerstone of the budget, aimed at driving growth and achieving net zero emissions. This initiative focuses on several critical areas: renewable hydrogen, critical minerals processing, green metals, low carbon liquid fuels and clean energy manufacturing. Manufacturers stand to gain from increased funding, support for innovation and market expansion.
A crucial component of this act is the $1.7 billion innovation fund, designed to support early-stage development and commercialisation across priority industries. Small to medium-sized manufacturers can leverage the financial support to bring new technologies to market, fostering innovation and developing competitive edge. Moreover, streamlined investment processes offer a single point of contact for faster project approvals, simplifying the regulatory landscape. The $7 billion in tax incentives for renewable hydrogen and critical minerals processing further reduce costs, enhancing the competitiveness of Australian manufacturers at a global scale.
Commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is a key emphasis of the budget, with over $1 billion allocated to the Solar SunShot program and
These programs place manufacturers at the forefront of green energy production, encouraging the development and adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices.
In addition to these measures, workforce development receives significant attention. The budget allocates $20.3 million for training in battery research, manufacturing, transport and recycling. This ensures the sector is equipped with a skilled labour force ready to meet evolving industry needs, supporting both innovation and sustainability.
Boost for construction and manufacturing
The construction sector also sees substantial support, with $16.5 billion earmarked over 10 years for priority road and rail projects, alongside significant funding for social and affordable housing. This
Navigating the Federal Budget 2024? Access the William Buck Hour, a free session designed to help middle-market businesses assess their current position, plan ahead and maximise their business’s potential.
investment drives demand for construction materials and components, spurring growth in related manufacturing sectors. The flow-on effect benefits manufacturers supplying to the construction industry, from raw materials to finished products.
Next steps for manufacturers
The Federal Budget 2024 offers major benefits for Australian manufacturers, including funding, tax incentives and support for sustainability and innovation.
For guidance on navigating these benefits, contact a local William Buck advisor to unlock the full potential of your manufacturing business.
William Buck williambuck.com
the Battery Breakthrough Initiative.
The Budget will benefit a range of manufacturers, from businesses that make tractors to those who drive them
BUSINESS & M ANUFACTURING FINANCE
Sloanebuilt has gone from building trailers to building for the long haul
Expansion is expensive, and it’s also essential if a company wants to grow. NSW-based Sloanebuilt is gearing up for a new phase of the business, with a company rebrand and automation technology that will allow it to triple its capacity. Managing Director Fred Marano said it was only possible after switching banks to St.George.
“The difference is how the banking managers understand your business and industry,” Marano said.
“If they have a simplistic view of the fundamentals of manufacturing, but not the day-to-day functionality of the business and how it works with cash flow, procurement, supply chain issues and the labour market, then it won’t work.”
Marano said his St.George Relationship Director, Adam Dowling, understood the intricacies of manufacturing, which gave him the confidence to invest in Sloanebuilt’s next stage.
The future of Sloanebuilt
Sloanebuilt Head of Strategy, Mythili Sarathy, said it’s undergoing an extensive digital transformation.
“I think we are the first manufacturing company in Australia to do this level of digital automation,” she said.
“It will improve our internal productivity so we can get more output from the manufacturing side. One trailer needs around 304 components. If we’re doing five or six trailers a week, that’s a lot of planning. Once the new ERP (enterprise resource planning software system) comes into play, it can plan everything for us, from projected forecasts to all the accounting.”
This level of automation is a multi-million dollar investment that will allow employees to put their energy into other parts of the business.
One arm of that is a new website, with interactive functionality. Sloanebuilt will be the first Australian company to allow customers to build their trailer
digitally. It will be as simple as putting in their requirements, seeing what the lead time on it will be, and getting a price online.
“We will change the mindset of how people order things,” Marano said.
Garnering greater visibility
Sloanebuilt recently won prestigious business awards, including the Western Sydney Large Business of the Year and Excellence in Business. Marano believes the recognition these wins gave the company has opened doors and created networking opportunities.
St.George did something similar. As part of its support service, the bank introduced Sloanebuilt to a few universities to discuss a robotics issue, to the AMGC for grant opportunities, and created real value by connecting Sloanebuilt to several business partners with a focus on improving efficiencies and providing cost savings to the business. It also linked Sloanebuilt with AUKUS, and as a result, Sloanebuilt is now setting up a defence arm to the business.
“We would never have had that link without St.George and its Head of Manufacturing, Matt Kelly, providing these opportunities,” Marano said.
“Sometimes industry businesses like ours don’t know who to go to, but when the bank refers you, it makes it easier. They open the door for you. And winning awards does that as well, so it’s a nice synergy.”
Growing an Australian manufacturing business
Marano bought the business in 1986, building it from a two-man operation to almost 150 employees and a
36,000 square metre headquarters.
“We’re a family-run business, focused on growth. We’ve integrated everything internally and produce 99% of what we do here on site. We don’t outsource for cost efficiency, that’s our USP; we build it all here to enable our customers to feel the real difference in the product quality,” he said.
“It’s all Australian owned, Australian made for the Australian market.”
As the company grew, it evolved with purpose, products, services and markets.
“We do more than one thing. Yes, we build trailers, but we also do spare parts, repairs and aspire to more in the future. That’s part of the rebrand; we’re not limiting ourselves,” Marano said.
Keeping that competitive edge
Marano believes that in order to stay competitive, Sloanebuilt has to work smarter, and that means capital expenditure.
“To have efficiencies or productivity gains, you have to invest money,” he said.
“When our account was up for review, St.George stepped in.”
St.George focuses on meaningful partnerships within the industry to support and create opportunities for business growth. This compelled Sloanebuilt to move banks.
“St.George showed us they understood the business and were willing to work with us to grow it,” Marano said.
BUSINESS & M ANUFACTURING
US submarine tender anchors in Australia
The USS Emory S. Land has arrived in Darwin for a port visit. It was welcomed by Commanding Officer of HMAS Coonawarra, Captain David Shirvington, on May 28, 2024.
Darwin is the first port visit of Emory S. Land’s current deployment, which began on May 17. A number of Australian personnel are travelling on the tender, deepening their experience of tender-based maintenance at sea.
Since January, the Emory S. Land
has been home to more than 30 Royal Australian Navy officers and sailors who departed for Guam to embed on board the submarine tender.
Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, RAN said it was a fantastic learning opportunity for local navy personnel.
“For those Royal Australian Navy officers and sailors on board the Emory S. Land, this deployment is an incredible opportunity to put their training and technical skills into practice,” he said.
“More than 30 of our people have spent the last five months in Guam with our US Navy partners, learning the ropes of nuclear submarine tender maintenance. This unique program will contribute significantly to our Navy’s future, developing our people to have the skills to operate, maintain and steward conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.”
The Australian officers and sailors worked alongside US sailors, building unique knowledge, skills and
experience in how the US conducts nuclear-powered submarine maintenance.
Local personnel involved range in rank from seaman to lieutenant and include electrical technicians, marine technicians and boatswain’s mates.
While in Darwin, the crew of the submarine tender has a full itinerary of community and cultural events, so they can experience the best of the Top End.
Seaman Electronics Technician Leanne Rogerson conducts maintenance while onboard USS Emory S. Land while alongside HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin, NT.
BAYKAL HYDRAULIC CNC PRESSBRAKE
Baykal APHS model CNC Pressbrakes are fast, accurate and repeatable. Standard features include the 5 Axis DELEM DA-66T touch screen controller, Multi Axis back gauges and longer stroke/ daylight for bending complex parts.
• PROGRAMMABLE X, Y1, Y2, V & R AXIS.
• CNC TABLE CROWNING & LASER GUARDING SYSTEM.
• SEVERAL MODELS AVAILABLE, RANGING FROM 120T X 3,100MM TO 200T X 4,100MM.
in Taiwan, the HAFCO Metalmaster turret mills are renowned for their exceptional quality,
• NT40 spindle taper
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• 1370 x 254mm work table
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• variable speed 703500rpm
• 2.2kw/3hp, 415V motor
• 1050 x 420 x 400mm (X,Y,Z)
• Variable speed, 70-4200rpm
• 1500 x 305mm hardened work table
• Square slideways Y & Z-Axis
• Turcite B coated slide-ways
• X & Y-Axis inverter feed motors
• Powered Z-Axis elevating motor
• 3.75kW / 5hp, 415V motor
$26,500 Ex GST
• Horizontal and Vertical Milling
• NT40 Horizontal and Vertical spindle tapers
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and
Code (M633D) $44,950 Ex GST
INDUSTRY NEWS
Queensland Gaskets expands into aviation, aerospace and medical industries
Brisbane-based advanced manufacturer, Queensland Gaskets, has ushered in a new era for the business.
Known for manufacturing industrial gaskets, sealing devices, and other indus trial components, it has recently expanded its capabilities by inte grating OSAAP Australia into its product portfolio.
The strategic move combines Queensland Gaskets’ robust manufacturing prowess with OSAAP’s innovative tool-kit inserts and sophisticated foam cut-out solutions, specifically designed for industries such as aviation, aerospace, defence, and healthcare.
OSAAP Australia was founded in July 2022 by aviation engineer John Coates in response to the specific tool control demands of the aviation sector.
solutions in collaboration with OSAAP America and used ruggedised Pelican cases; a speeddriven solution created for the market.
Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and its proprietary Blue Shadow CAD Software, OSAAP® established itself as an innovator in this niche.
Queensland Gaskets recently celebrated 70 years of operations. For this established family business, the acquisition of OSAAP Australia represents a strategic move towards innovative solutions and expands its traditional offerings.
Queensland Gaskets MD Carl Quarterman recognised the opportunity in combining OSAAP America’s pioneering technologies with its robust manufacturing
“This partnership with OSAAP Australia signifies a milestone in our strategy to lead through innovation and expand our reach to various industries. It’s about bringing together the best of both worlds to deliver excep-
manufacturing capability,” Quarterman said.
He and Coates have been working on the integration strategy for the past few months to ensure a seamless alignment of capabilities and service offerings, guaranteeing continuity and enhancing the level of service provided.
Now that the integration process has been successfully completed, Coates will be pursuing new opportunities and has handed the management of OSAAP Australia to Bruce Roffey, one of Queensland Gaskets’ top Sales and Business Development Managers.
“John’s visionary leadership and determination have been instrumental in OSAAP Australia’s rapid growth and operational success, and we thank him for his hard work,” Quarterman said. Coates is pleased to be handing over the reins.
“This transition marks an important milestone in our company journey. As its founder, I am confident that this new partnership will bring fresh perspectives, resources, and opportunities for growth,” he said.
“Rest assured, OSAAP Australia’s commitment to delivering exceptional products and services and maintaining the highest standards of customer satisfaction remains unwavering.”
Roffey is set to build on the solid foundation laid by Coates.
“I am excited about the future of OSAAP Australia,” Roffey said.
“We have a fantastic team, and together with Queensland Gaskets, we are well-positioned to innovate and expand our impact across various industries such as aviation, aerospace, medical, and defence.”
• Foam shadow boards: Efficient and cost-effective systems that boost productivity in diverse operational settings.
• Customisable foam solutions: Flexibly designed and meticulously manufactured to meet unique client specifications.
• CNC foam cut-outs: Essential for the secure transportation of crucial equipment, drones, medical devices, tools, and supplies, maintaining the integrity of high-stakes operations.
Colchester and Harrison manual lathes offer precision, performance, safety and reliability
In the world of manual lathes, where precision and safety are paramount, Colchester Machine Tool Solutions stands as a beacon of excellence. While cheaper alternatives flood the market, its commitment to quality, safety and performance sets it apart.
At the heart of Colchester’s ethos is a dedication to adherence of international standards.
Its manual lathes are not just compliant with CE standards, it goes above and beyond by designing machines in accordance with rigorous safety standards, with features including electrically interlocked chuck guards and head end guards as well as mechanically protected leadscrew transmissions to prioritise the well-being of operators.
Colchester’s lathes feature robust construction with high-grade meehanite cast iron beds and precision-ground components. Special high precision taper roller spindle bearings, induction hardened spindle noses and low friction materials
ensure unparalleled accuracy and reliability.
Safety is just the beginning. Colchester boasts a plethora of operational advantages that enhance efficiency and ease of use. From saddle-mounted chip guards to variable speed spindle drives, every aspect is meticulously designed for optimal performance. Dynamic speed adjustment under cutting load, thermal stability and comprehensive thread and feed options are just a few other examples. What truly sets Colchester apart is its commitment to customer support and service. Its local service teams, UK-based spares support and consultancy services provide customers with a comprehensive support network unmatched by competitors.
Charging the battery industry
By Christine Powis
The government’s new National Battery Strategy aims to grow manufacturing capacity, strengthen supply chains, and decrease reliance on offshore products for energy essentials. It dovetails with the government’s previously announced Critical Minerals Strategy to expand downstream processing and help meet future local global demand.
Announcing the battery strategy today, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic told the media that while we supplied nearly half the world’s lithium (45%) last year, we made less than 1% of battery materials or components. He pointed out that while 3.7 million homes here have rooftop solar, only 250,000 have a battery to store it.
Meanwhile, world demand for batteries is expected to quadruple by 2030 as the world moves to net zero.
Asked by ABC Radio National whether Australia can compete with China, the biggest battery producer, Minister Husic said a lot of countries are recognising that their dependency on that concentrated supply chain isn’t in their national interest.
“If there are disruptions to that supply — either accidental or otherwise — we’re vulnerable.”
“If you look at what we’ve announced in the Budget more broadly, for instance the critical minerals strategy is about increasing processing. We’ve looked at the whole value chain within this strategy and elsewhere and we’re very good at mining and refining but a lot of the processing is done in China.”
Husic said that once Australia adds more value by doing more onshore processing, Australia will be able to compete.
“We can do more of this onshore … once that occurs … then we’re in a better space to do cell manufacture.”
Broadcaster Patricia Karvelas pointed out that both Treasury and the Productivity Commission have said Australia doesn’t have the capacity to build sustainable battery manufacturing — views which Minister Husic dismissed as “economic orthodoxy”.
“A lot of that is orthodox thinking, is about just relying on our comparative advantage and …. just maintaining the old dig-and-ship mentality.
“If you look at what the rest of the world is thinking about and the recognition of what we need to do to get to net zero and how to do it and setting up mechanisms — particularly in terms of in our space — which is a lot more of a demand of people to step forward with bids as to how they would be able to scale up production and making decisions on that basis.
“What we’re trying to do is get the balance right between what we do with taxpayer funds, being able to increase our ability to do more onshore, and reduce dependency on [offshore] supply chains as well. And recognising that the world has turned on these issues because we’ve got the challenge of emissions reduction and getting to net zero.”
In his foreword to the battery strategy document, Husic hailed Australia’s “unmatched natural advantages” to create a battery industry: world-leading renewable energy resources, critical minerals, skilled workers and a strong international trading reputation. Husic asserts the strategy is the latest milestone in Australia’s impressive history in battery advancement.
“Australia has been at the forefront
of the battery industry for decades, from pioneering the vanadium redox battery at the University of New South Wales to installing the world’s first big lithium battery in South Australia. Across Australia, businesses continue to innovate in the battery industry.”
The strategy sets out the government’s measures to create a competitive Australian battery industry, headlined by new actions:
New battery actions: Budget 2024–25
• Battery Breakthrough: $523.2 million – will incentivise the production of high-value battery products in Australia’s areas of advantage – such as stationary energy storage – to strengthen economic resilience and support critical battery manufacturing capabilities.
• Building Future Battery Capabilities: $20.3 million – build our future battery capabilities and strengthen national collaboration, including:
• $9.9 million to the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre to map Australian battery
capability and value chains, drive battery innovation and scale up and deliver best practice guidelines and standards for the battery industry.
• $10 million to the Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre — to develop workforce skills and training to enable a safe and sustainable battery industry.
• Support to deliver the Australian Made Battery Precinct: $5.6 million – has been committed to conduct foundational work for the Australian Made Battery Precinct, in partnership with the Queensland government. This will help realise the Australian government’s commitment to invest up to $100 million in the precinct.
• Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund: $1.7 billion – will accelerate the deployment of innovation in priority industries, which includes clean energy technologies such as batteries manufacturing.
National Battery Strategy
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, centre, with Finance Minister Katy Gallagher and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Electrically powered compressors for aquacultural applications
One of Australia’s leading aquacultural growers and processors has installed multiple PMV, 2-stage compressors from 132 to 200kW to handle a variety of offshore, marine based applications.
The new electrical powered PMV compressors from Kaishan Australia were chosen to replace existing diesel models due to achieving major gains in efficiency and considerably lower running costs.
With Permanent Magnet motors utilizing rare earth technology plus Variable Speed Drive (VSD), in comparison, the new compressors run smoother, cleaner, quieter and with much lower energy input for volume air output.
Eliminating fossil fuel emissions greatly assists in achieving the company’s environmental goals. Kaishan’s advanced variable speed drive system allows for fully programmed, remote or on-site
operational control.
Kaishan Compressors National Sales Manager Scott Tamlyn said compressors can be adapted for most environments.
“By matching the right compressor type to client needs in almost any application, we are gaining big inroads into the supply of innovative compressor technologies that offer
a viable power source now and well into the future,” he said.
“With our vast Australian experience and global resources, we are confident in both specifying and sourcing compressors and systems that meet and exceed customer demands”.
Seaworthy engineering
Specifically adapted for the harsh
seaborne environment with stabilised mounting in marine grade cabinets and stainless-steel componentry, it is expected that each compressor will prove to be a long-term investment in the company’s future. Capacities have also been increased to cater for continuing growth of the business.
Whilst compressed air has been used in aquaculture applications for many years, it is due to recent advances in compressor technology and engineering that the true value is being realised.
Kaishan’s world class, energy saving technology and seaworthy engineering means that compressed air will be an efficient and effective power source for many aquaculture applications for years to come.
A post-diesel future
The advanced design, engineering and technology built into each Kaishan 2-Stage PMV compressor offers far lower maintenance requirements than the old diesel models.
Pre-acquisition feasibility studies demonstrated that the increased efficiencies, energy source cost savings and lower maintenance requirements (less downtime) associated with the changeover will greatly offset the capital investment in the new compressors.
Through systemic optimisation of the airend, the permanent magnet motors (using rare earth technology), plus integrated variable speed drive (VSD), the new PMV, 2-Stage compressors run smoother, cleaner, quieter and with much lower energy input for volume air output than the diesel equivalents.
Kaishan kaishan.com.au
AUSTRALIAN MADE
Mauboy lends voice to local makers and growers
Australian singer songwriter Jessica Mauboy serenaded factory workers at the launch of Australian Made Week today – lending her voice to the call to buy local.
Australia’s only manufacturer of CB radios and emergency beacon products, GME, hosted singer Jessica Mayboy and Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic on day one of Australia Made Week (2026 May).
GME is a 65-year-old, family-owned Australian company and a leader in wireless radio frequency communications which employs 245 people at its Western Sydney facility.
Mauboy sang as ambassador for the promotional week and joined Minister Husic in urging Australians to more consciously buy Australian products.
“We Aussies have a reputation and passion for creating things,” Mauboy told her audience of GME workers and executives.
“For me, it’s my music and I’m excited to lend my voice to celebrating other Australians who put their heart and soul into producing homegrown products,” she said.
KPMG’s most recent Family Business Survey showed that 67% of businesses in Australia are family-owned and operated and more than half of the nation’s workforce is employed by a family business.
And home is where the heart is: Roy Morgan research showing that 91% of Australians want to see more Australian Made options and 72% want to buy more Australian Made products in the next 12 months.
Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said Australian Made Week celebrates local makers and growers.
“When we buy products bearing the iconic Australian Made greenand-gold kangaroo, we are helping all Australians enjoy the lifestyle that makes us the envy of the rest of the world – and even the smallest purchases can make a huge difference,” Lazzaro said.
Roy Morgan research shows that if every household spent an additional $10 a week on Australian Made products, we would generate almost $5 billion extra into our economy each year and create up to 9,000 new jobs.
“From automotive to arts, beauty to boating, clothing to cleaning products and many, many more, every single purchase of products bearing our unique country-of-origin certification, helps create and support local jobs and boost the economies of the cities, towns and regions where the goods are produced,” he added.
Learn more about Australian Made Week and find genuinely Australian Made products at australianmadeweek.com.au
Dematic’s ColbyRack racking system now licensed as ‘Australian Made’
The iconic green and gold
‘Australian Made, Australian Grown’ logo now adorns Dematic’s ColbyRACK racking systems.
Dematic’s brand of selective pallet racking has been manufactured in Sydney’s northern beaches for over 55 years. It has now received official licensing as ‘Australian Made.’
Available in various configurations, including single-deep, double-deep, narrow aisle, and drive-in or drive-through, ColbyRACK prioritises quality and safety. Designed, engineered, and manufactured by Dematic’s Australian team, it meets rigorous Australian standards.
Head of Dematic ANZ Storage Equipment Division Lee Koutsos is thrilled with the development.
“We take immense pride in our long history of Australian manufacturing,” he said.
“The Australian Made license
applied to our ColbyRACK range underscores our commitment to local manufacturing. It assures our customers that the products and solutions we provide are locally made, locally supported, and designed to meet Australian safety and quality standards.”
Colby Storage Solutions has supplied innovative solutions for more than 50 years. It combines the flexibility of a national network of independent distributors with the resources of global materials handling specialist Dematic.
The Australian Made Campaign, a not-for-profit organisation, promotes and supports Australian businesses and producers.
Customers who choose Dematic’s Australian-made ColbyRACK racking systems are directly supporting local manufacturers and contributing to the Australian economy.
Benefits of buying Australian Made
• Supporting local businesses directly benefits local manufacturers and their families
• Quality assurance because Australian-made goods adhere to high-quality standards
• Environmental impact by reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation
For more information about Dematic and the ColbyRACK range, visit www.colby.com.au
ColbyRack colby.com.au
ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION
Automation delivers big savings
Why pay valuable staff to do repetitive, mundane tasks that can easily be automated?
There is still a lot of apprehension towards embracing automation in the warehousing and intralogistics industry. To many, it is simply the trepidation of the unknown, but often it comes down to the fact that robotics are seen to be very expensive. But how expensive are automated forklifts and carriers really?
$5,640,360 in labour costs over a 10 year forecast, the AGVs return a saving of $5,504,000 and are paid off before the end of the second year.
AGVs and AMRs
AGVs and AMRs are the most effective solution for repeatable pallet and cart transport. They can be easily managed using the in-built, bestin-class MAXAGV windows-based Warehouse Management System.
There are many different models available, however this costing simulation uses a compact fork over AGV capable of lifting one tonne loaded pallets up to 2.8m high and an AMR carrier designed to transport loaded pallets up to 1.3 tonne.
The many benefits of warehouse automation
• Increased workplace safety, efficiency, and productivity
• Reduced labour, operational costs and human errors
• Reduced handling and storage costs
• Improved client experience and employee satisfaction
• Eliminate damage to machinery, products, and racking infrastructure
• Optimised warehouse space
Am I ready for automation?
The average annual warehouse staff wage used above is $60,000 plus a 20% on cost, plus annual entitlements, and 3.5% annual wage increase. An annual cost of $10k has also been included to simulate the leasing of a forklift with inclusive maintenance costs. (Ongoing maintenance costs of the AMR and AGV units are estimated at $7-9k per year, per unit.)
The below simulation shows the costing of one AMR carrier (Autonomous Mobile Robot) and compact fork-over AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) in relation to a double shift of repeatable warehouse trolley and forklift movements. The AMR carrier returns a saving in labour costs of $1,811,800 over 10 years and is paid off in the second year. The compact AGV becomes a paid asset within the third year and saves $1,668,000 in direct labour costs over a 10 year forecast.
Deciding when to automate your business depends on a host of factors. Begin by evaluating processes and procedures, source a local and experienced integrator to identify the more immediate areas to focus on whilst keeping future proofing and continuous improvement in mind.
The team at Robotic Automation™ is here to help businesses determine the suitability of implementing automation into a warehouse environment.
The savings are further compounded when implementing a larger system. A fleet of three AMR carriers replacing six shifts saves
ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION
National Robotics Strategy lays a strong foundation
The National Robotics Strategy has been created to help strengthen Australia’s robotics ecosystem.
A stronger, more unified robotics industry will harness the benefits of robotics and automation across the Australian economy.
Developing, manufacturing and using these technologies will improve productivity, grow the economy, help revive Australian manufacturing and combat major challenges like climate change, ageing population, geopolitical risks, labour market pressures and the cost of living.
The Strategy was developed in consultation with the robotics industry, researchers, state and territory governments and the
Australian public. It was guided by an advisory committee of Australian robotics and technology experts.
The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) was involved in the consultation process and welcomes the Strategy, which recognises Australia’s strengths in research and development (R&D). It also outlines a plan for a strong and coordinated robotics industry that could deliver significant economic gains.
ATSE CEO Kylie Walker said the Strategy gets the foundations right by modernising definitions which enable a shared understanding of technical terminology and emphasises that growing a skilled and diverse workforce are critical to a thriving Australian robotics capability.
“The success of the Strategy depends on the availability of a highly trained workforce of STEM professionals and particularly engineers,” she said.
“As put forward in ATSE’s submission, building a robotics workforce is critical and recruitment should include diverse and underrepresented groups identified through the Government’s Diversity in STEM review.”
Robotics R&D are highlighted as a strength of the Australian industry. The Strategy provides the case study of Finisar optical switching technology, which is core to global internet traffic. It was developed in part by ATSE Fellows Dr Simon Poole and Dr Steven Frisken, who were recognised with a Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation in 2018.
A robot manufactured for wet elements
Igus has developed a low cost automation solution made of polymer and stainless steel for environments with splashing water.
The new robolink IP44 from Igus is built to last in damp and wet environments.
Igus GmbH Head of Automation Technology
Alexander Mühlens said it can easily and cost-effectively implement simple tasks and come into contact with splash water.
“From discussions with customers, we learned that many users are looking for an economically affordable solution that can also be used in splash water environments, for example, when emulsions have to be removed. We then developed a robot that is suitable for this purpose,” he said.
The new robolink makes use of the advantages of two materials: stainless steel and high-performance polymers.
For the first time in an Igus robot, the joining links are made of V2 or V4 stainless steel and the
joints of the proven lubrication-free tribo-polymers. The user does not need an expensive additional covering, because the absence of lubrication in the joints means that no grease can be washed out and escape into the environment.
The new robolink meets protection class IP44 at least and is resistant to splash water. It can carry up to three kilograms, has a range of 790 millimetres with five axes and can make seven picks a minute.
Thanks to the use of motors with encoders of protection class IP65, the robot can also be easily used for outdoor inspection. Further application scenarios are possible, for example, in the food and beverage industry, in the chemical and pharmaceutical sector or even for tank and container cleaning operations.
For further information or to talk to an automation expert, call Treotham Automation on 1300 65 75 64 or email info@treotham.com.au.
Importantly, the Strategy emphasises the importance of cybersecurity, which must be at the core of emerging technologies to ensure mission-critical systems and collected data are protected.
ATSE is pleased to see that the Strategy acknowledges and builds upon the work of the Robotics Australia Group, chaired by ATSE Fellow and Strategy advisory group member Sue Keay FTSE, in developing industry roadmaps.
With a consolidated Strategy to guide the development of the robotics industry, ATSE hopes to see new funding, including for R&D, to enable Australia to realise the industry’s productivity benefits.
“The Strategy’s success indicators outline a clear and achievable vision for bolstering the Australian robotics industry. Increased robotics R&D expenditure and increased government procurement of Australianmade robotics systems will be central to building on our current robotics opportunities,” Walker said.
Kylie Walker CEO ATSE
CeMAT PREVIEW 2024
CeMAT Australia: Pioneering the future of intralogistics
CeMAT Australia continues to be the leading trade show for intralogistics, robotics, automation, warehousing, supply chain management and materials handling. It will be held on July 23-25, 2024 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
CeMAT Australia brings together industry leaders and innovators.
One of this year’s highlights is the return of the Australian Forklift Championships. This national competition showcases the skills and determination of the top forklift drivers in the country, offering a platform for excellence in materials handling. Companies are encouraged to participate by selecting their best drivers to compete, with the chance to win media coverage, fabulous prizes and the coveted title of the top forklift driver in the nation.
The CeMAT Knowledge Theatre will feature an agenda packed with insights from industry leaders. Notable speakers include Peter Jones, Managing Director and Founder of Prological and Stephanie Krishnan, Associate Vice President of IDC Asia/Pacific. These sessions promise to offer valuable knowledge and foresight into the future of logistics and supply chain management.
CeMAT Australia will also take place in Sydney in 2025, aligning with Industrial Transformation Australia to create a comprehensive platform for industry innovation. Together, these events will offer unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking and growth, driving the digital transformation of industries and setting the stage for the next wave of industrial progress.
Join us at CeMAT Australia 2024
in Melbourne and CeMAT along with Industrial Transformation Australia 2025 in Sydney to be a part of these transformative events. Engage with the leaders and innovators shaping the future of Industry 4.0 and intralogistics and take your place at the forefront of industrial evolution.
Industrial Transformation Australia 2025: A new era of innovation
It may not be on until next year, but it’s one you definitely want to plan for — Industrial Transformation Australia 2025.
Held from July 22-24, 2025 at The Dome, Sydney Olympic Park and organised by Hannover Messe, it will help companies navigate the new
phase of the industrial evolution.
Rather than a traditional trade show format, the event will offer a forum for manufacturers, technology providers and thought leaders to exchange ideas, build networks
Attendees will include manufacturers seeking to integrate cutting-edge technologies, technology providers eager to present advanced solutions and business leaders dedicated to driving operational
and seize new opportunities for innovation.
Industrial Transformation Australia 2025 isn’t just about showcasing the latest advancements in automation, data exchange and IoT technologies. It is a catalyst for strategic collaboration and innovation, propelling industries towards the future. It will gather key players from across the globe to explore the possibilities of Industry 4.0.
efficiency and innovation. This convergence of minds and technologies aims to shape the future of Industry 4.0 across Oceania and beyond, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development in the digital age.
Incident Zero’s Safety Halo system stands as a beacon of innovation
In the fast-paced realm of warehousing and logistics, the intersection of efficiency and safety is critical. This industry thrives on the swift handling and precise movement of goods, facilitated by heavy-duty machinery such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor systems. While these machines are essential for meeting consumer demands with speed and accuracy, their constant operation poses significant safety challenges for workers on the warehouse floor. Warehouses and distribution centres are bustling environments fraught with safety concerns. The rapid interaction between personnel and mobile plant machinery like
forklifts and pallet jacks escalates the risk of collisions and accidents.
Workers navigating through busy aisles often contend with limited visibility and the pervasive noise typical of industrial settings, increasing the likelihood of inadvertent encounters with moving equipment. These challenges underscore the urgent need for robust safety measures, stringent protocols, and advanced technologies to safeguard workers and uphold productivity. The logistical demands of roundthe-clock operations add further complexity to safety management. Continuous shifts mean both workers and machinery are in perpetual
motion, heightening the risk of fatigue-induced errors in judgment and slower reaction times. Common issues such as trucks misaligning with loading docks create uneven surfaces and potential trip hazards, disrupting the flow of goods and delaying delivery schedules.
Incident Zero’s Safety Halo™ system emerges as a pioneering solution to these multifaceted challenges, revolutionising safety practices in the warehousing and logistics industry. This cutting-edge technology utilises advanced sensors and highly visible laser lines to establish clear exclusion zones around moving equipment. By proactively alerting personnel to potential hazards and delineating safe distances from operating machinery, the Safety Halo encourages safer behaviours and cultivates a culture of heightened safety awareness among warehouse staff.
Moreover, Incident Zero’s laser line marking system enhances operational efficiency by providing precise guides for truck drivers during manoeuvres such as reversing and docking alignment. This precision minimises guesswork, reduces the risk of misalignment, and optimises workflow, ensuring smoother
operations that meet demanding throughput requirements without compromising safety.
As the warehousing and logistics sector evolves, technologies like Incident Zero’s Safety Halo represent pivotal advancements in achieving safer and more efficient operations. By integrating sophisticated safety measures with innovative solutions, warehouses not only protect their workforce but also streamline processes to meet the escalating demands of global supply chains.
Incident Zero’s Safety Halo system stands as a beacon of innovation in enhancing workplace safety and operational excellence within dynamic industrial environments. By addressing inherent challenges with state-of-the-art technology, this system sets a new standard for safety management in warehousing and logistics.
Because everyone deserves to go home safely. Every day. Come visit us in Melbourne at CeMAT Stand 824 from 23–25 July 2024.
WORLD’S FIRST EXCLUSION ZONE FOR MOBILE PLANT.
Because everyone deserves to go home safely.
Safety Halo™ by Incident Zero is the world’s first exclusion zone for mobile plant that leverages neuroscience to positively affect human behaviour and induce safety.
Projecting large distances, and built to withstand the rigours of heavy machinery, the Safety Halo is the most effective exclusion zone system for mobile plant in the manufacturing industry. Scan the QR code to see the Safety Halo in action, or come visit us in Melbourne at CeMAT Stand 824 from 23–25 July 2024.
LED Safety Halo Kit for Forklifts & Small Earthmoving Machinery
CeMAT PREVIEW 2024
Streamlining Dock Operations: Coca-Cola Europacific Partners’ Success with Mobiledock at CeMAT 2024
The CeMAT 2024 conference will showcase innovative logistics solutions transforming industry standards. One standout site visit presentation will be by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), highlighting their successful implementation of Mobiledock to manage high-demand dock processing. As the world’s largest bottling company, CCEP’s operations span over 42,000 employees and a fleet of 700 trucks, making approximately 1.8 million deliveries annually across Australia.
The Challenge
CCEP were looking to improve on their logistic processes at site level, including multi-department communications and wanting to increase the visibility of freight
movements between their distribution centres. The reliance on spreadsheets for booking deliveries resulted in inefficiencies such as dock congestion, delayed carriers, and limited real-time visibility for stakeholders.
Scott Schryver, Digital, Data & Insights and Technical Solutions Manager at CCEP, described the pre-Mobiledock scenario: “We had several streams of communications and were looking for a solution that centralised this. We were running on spreadsheets, Google Sheets, and there was a lack of that single source of truth to try and manage loads.”
The Solution
To streamline operations, CCEP adopted Mobiledock, a cloud-based web dock appointment scheduling service. Mobiledock’s intuitive design and ease of configuration allowed for rapid deployment, providing CCEP with comprehensive control over inbound and outbound vehicle arrivals. This system offered a unified communication channel, reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency.
Key features of Mobiledock included the ability to handle mass uploads for interstate and bulk bookings, automated and manual approval processes, and real-time monitoring of dock activities. This level of control and visibility enabled CCEP to efficiently manage their booking process, monitor compliance, and reduce their carbon footprint.
The Results
The implementation of Mobiledock led to immediate improvements. CCEP experienced a significant reduction in dock congestion due to the live visualisation of current and upcoming schedules, allowing for better resource allocation. Enhanced data reporting facilitated the identification and resolution of delays, strengthening relationships with carriers and supporting business case development for further enhancements.
Mobiledock’s impact extended to simplifying communications between departments and carriers, establishing a “single source of truth” for real-time dock operations management. This transparency benefitted carriers by providing precise information on arrival and departure times, improving their scheduling accuracy.
Scott Schryver, Digital, Data & Insights and Technical Solutions Manager at CCEP, noted, “The biggest issue that Mobiledock has solved for us is the ability to prioritise the loads. The ability to hold off on the automated approvals for the interstate routes until we get those time-sensitive loads within the system has been an absolute joy for us. Overall, it has improved the visibility our site operational teams were after and increased the level of communication with our carriers.”
Sold Out CCEP Site Visit
20 CeMAT 2024 attendees will
have the unique opportunity to see Mobiledock in action during a CCEP site visit on Thursday, 25 July. David Sanders Mobiledock Executive Chairman stated “Registrations for this visit sold out within 24 hours which demonstrates that many organisations are recognising the increasing importance of Loading Dock Management to modern supply chains. The Visit will provide a firsthand look at how CCEP leverages Mobiledock to enhance their dock operations, offering valuable insights into the practical applications and benefits of this innovative scheduling solution.
Conclusion
CCEP’s successful deployment of Mobiledock exemplifies how innovative solutions can address complex logistical challenges, enhancing efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction. The registered site visit attendees at CeMAT 2024 will gain valuable insights from CCEP’s experience, highlighting the critical role of advanced scheduling systems in modern logistics. Through Mobiledock, CCEP has not only improved their operational workflow but also set a new standard for dock management in the industry.
David Sanders, Mobiledock Executive Chairman
The omni wheel is the new solution from Omnia
Omnia is introducing a new approach to enhancing directional control and load stability.
While the swivel castor uses a normal wheel within a swivel castor mount (it’s the mount that provides the multidirectional capability), an omni wheel uses rollers on its outer perimeter to provide multi-direc tional capability. In essence, a wheel within a wheel that has the ability to go in any direction without turning. By removing the need to work around a swivel offset, the omni wheel provides a much more intuitive user experience with its direct response to the direction of the force applied. This allows for greater directional control (without continual steering input), load stability and precise positioning.
Not just an alternative to the swivel castor
While the omni wheel offers a great alternative to the traditional swivel castor, its applications don’t stop there. It can be used as a replace ment to a simple fixed castor adding
multi-directional capability where space or clearances are limited. Omni wheels also provide the ability to be either free spinning or power driven, making them ideal for both floor or inverted (table top or stand) applications such as conveyor transfers, automated conveyor sortation solutions, feed tables
panel work and pipe rolling where rotation and longitudinal feeding can happen simultaneously. They also make an ideal non-marking alternative to ball transfer units. Along with mecanum wheels, omni wheels are one of the few alternatives for direct precision mobility for autonomous mobile robots (AMR’s), however, they can replicate the movement of a mecanum wheeled unit with only three powered wheels, as opposed
Opening new opportunities
Omnia collaborates closely with its customers, as omni wheels aren’t constrained to the existing limitations as imposed by a swivel mount in regard to numbers, orientation or layout. Often, the best outcomes arise from breaking existing rules. This approach paves the way for innovative applications of omni wheels to platforms, which might not be obvious to experienced
Where customers have a
mobility challenge in regards to directional control, load stability, precision positioning or product aesthetics, Omnia can often find a way forward.
Learning by doing
By creating the omni wheel and becoming its own OEM with key products such as the Rotatruck, automated conveyor sortation solutions and the plant glider, Omnia has been able to demonstrate the capability of the wheel to help differentiate both existing applications and the ability to create entirely new ones.
Omnia is working with its global partners to create new solutions for some of the world’s largest logistics and e-commerce companies. It’s seen continued growth and enquiries in the past three years and has recently commenced production on an order for the US in excess of 500,000 wheels. Its range includes six sizes from 35mm up to 180mm with options of roller hardnesses and bores.
Omnia’s omni wheels and solutions will be on show at CeMAT in July. You can also get in touch with the team to discover how omni wheels can move your business forward.
• Directional control
• Load stability
• Precision positioning
• Simple mounting
• Intuitive user experience
CeMAT PREVIEW 2024
AutoStore to unveil new FusionPort Workstation and R5 Pro Robot at CeMAT 2024
Global cube storage pioneer, AutoStore will return to CeMAT this year to demonstrate its new FusionPortTM Workstation with R5 ProTM Robot, as well as its space-saving ConveyorPortTM solution. CeMAT is also an opportunity to formally introduce its new Australian Business Development Manager and president of the New South Wales Division of the Supply Chain & Logistics Association of Australia, Julian Brancaccio. Business Development Manager Australia New Zealand Jason Wu is
looking forward to the opportunity to connect with customers and showcase AutoStore’s cutting-edge solutions.
“We’ve made great in-roads in growing our footprint across the ANZ region and educating the local market about the benefits of automated cube storage systems but there’s still work to be done,” Wu said.
“As Australia’s leading trade show for the warehousing, supply chain and materials handling sectors, CeMAT is the perfect platform for us to engage with local businesses and explore the many ways in which our solutions can address their business challenges.”
What’s on show?
Visitors to CeMAT will have the opportunity to get to grips with the AutoStore FusionPort Workstation. The innovation is designed to drive warehouse speed and productivity, while reducing worker fatigue and strain.
Featuring tilted Bin openings and ergonomic user interfaces, the FusionPort minimises the need for operators to twist and reach, reducing the risk of injuries and strain.
“With its dual Bin openings, the FusionPort facilitates faster order picking, accurate picks and accelerated order fulfilment,” Wu said.
“It efficiently handles 550 Bins an hour”.
Alongside the FusionPort, AutoStore will showcase the new R5 Pro Robot, the latest version of the company’s R5 Robot.
“The R5 Pro addresses the specific demands of large-scale eCommerce operations. At large AutoStore sites, the deployment of the R5 Pro can reduce the required number of robots on the same Grid by 15%, enabling enhanced routing and efficiency. The R5 Pro is designed to charge faster, supporting continuous operations and it makes more efficient use of warehouse space,” Wu said.
“The R5 Pro presents a stellar solution for anyone with large warehouse systems, requiring
high-throughput solutions.”
In addition to the FusionPort and R5 Pro, the AutoStore ConveyorPort solution will be in action — the workstation where Bins are dropped on a conveyor and then transferred to an opening outside of the AutoStore Grid (cube storage system), enabling rapid processing.
“This demonstration system displays all the features and benefits of AutoStore in a condensed setting, proving that AutoStore solutions effectively optimise warehousing space,” Wu said.
Leading from the front in logistics
Since its last appearance at CeMAT, AutoStore has achieved significant milestones, including the 2023 Australian Supply Chain & Logistics (ASCL) Award in the category of Automation, Robotics or Emerging Technology.
The Award coincided with the company’s one-year anniversary in Australia.
“Now in our second year on Australian soil, we continue to deliver scalable and flexible automated warehouse solutions that maximise warehouse capacity, efficiency and throughput,” Wu said.
“We have successfully deployed 1,450 systems across more than 50 countries, helping our customers thrive. We look forward to the expansion of AutoStore in the region,” concludes Wu.
AutoStore will be at Stand 300 at CeMAT, July 23-25 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Making Space for Incredible
At AutoStore, our Robots, team, partners and customers. are united by a single goal – making space for incredible.
How? With an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) that delivers 24/7, high-throughput order fulfillment; a cubic-based layout that increases storage capacity by 4 times in the same footprint; and Robots that use less energy than a vacuum cleaner.
Meet the space makers
Learn more
Discover space efficiency with high throughput!
Talk to us: Booth 300, CeMAT Australia, 23-25 July, Melbourne.
Space makers shown from left to right: Thomas Liske PUMA, John Gallemore THG PLC, Sandy Johnson AUTOSTORE, Jeroen Dekker ACTIVE ANTS, Max Meister
LUDWIG MEISTER, Drew Bailey GEODIS, Frode Robberstad AUTOSTORE
24/7 facility in Sydney, through the implementation of Swisslog’ s PowerStore automation system.
With over 30,000 pallet locations spread across five levels, the integration of Swisslog’ s SynQ warehouse control system software ensures seamless operations with full traceability and trackability of products, including batch numbers.
To further optimise operational efficiency, Linfox BevChain utilises a dedicated on-site team from Swisslog to partner closely with its staff.
Swisslog’s integrated automation and intralogistics solutions for warehouse and distribution centres are delivering outstanding results locally and globally.
With 25 offices across five continents providing service backup in 50 countries, the company offers local businesses a wealth of experience in automation systems. For more than 60 years, it has supplied leading global technologies backed with local expertise and service.
Systems manage pallet inventory, track pallet movements, and optimise pallet handling processes. The software provides real-time visibility into pallet locations and enables intelligent decision making to improve efficiency and responsiveness.
Swisslog’s extensive experience in ASRS pallet technology — including particularly the Vectura stacker crane — spans more than 50 years and encompasses a diverse range of environments and customer
“Swisslog’s Warehouse Management Systems…provide real-time visibility into pallet locations and enables intelligent decision making to improve efficiency and responsiveness.”
Swisslog’s software and service are tailored to local needs to optimise material flow, enhance operational efficiency and set new standards in warehouse automation with future-proofing products and solutions.
Swisslog’s solutions range from automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) to warehouse management software and robotic systems for tasks such as picking, packing storage and retrieval.
Its SynQ materials handling software provides warehouse management, material flow, automation and 3D visualisation, all from a single point of control. SynQ software, which is a combination of Synchronisation and Intelligence Quotient, is designed for dynamic, data-driven supply chains, such as those that drive industries including e-commerce, automotive, retail, food and beverage, health, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and transport.
Swisslog’s Warehouse Management
projects worldwide, including in Australia and New Zealand.
The group’s pallet handling solutions offer a comprehensive approach to warehouse optimisation, delivering increased efficiency improved accuracy, better space utilisation and enhanced flexibility for future expansion and peak periods. By automating pallet handling processes, Swisslog boosts productivity while minimising errors through accurate tracing of pallet movements.
The Linfox BevChain success story: maximising storage usage by up to 60%
Swisslog’ s global expertise in providing logistics is complemented by its local knowledge and experience in pallet technology, which was key to a major project with BevChain, a subsidiary of Linfox.
Linfox BevChain significantly improved its storage utilisation by approximately 60% within its
By having such expertise on-site, Linfox BevChain can quickly address any issues that arise and ensure the company’s automation system operates at peak performance. The partnership provides services including software support, training, condition monitoring and maintenance including spare parts, ultimately enhancing the overall lifecycle of the automation system.
BevChain Linfox Australia President Misha Shilapnikoff values the partnership.
“We value the highly skilled on-site Swisslog team who work in partnership with our people. They provide vital insights, immediate incident response and proactively monitor equipment to ensure maximum efficiency over its lifespan,” he said.
“This site represents BevChain’s commitment to work smarter for our customers. We continue to invest in their future with high performing supply chains and bestin-class technology.”
PowerStore high density shuttle system for pallet warehousing for Lineage Logistics.
Lineage Logistics is a global leader of the temperature-controlled logistics industry, with more than 450 facilities across 18 countries, and over 26,000 team members globally in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Lineage Logistics’ Sunnyvale, Texas, cold storage facility employs Swisslog’s PowerStore automated storage and retrieval system as a cornerstone of its expanded operations.
Lineage’s commitment to innovation and data-driven efficiency is evident in this 96,000 sq m expansion, introducing its first fully automated cold storage facility in North America.
The compact, high-density shuttle system not only meets high throughput demands, but also minimises worker exposure to harsh cold conditions.
With three vertically stacked modules and advanced features tailored for cold environments, the powerhouse system achieves impressive throughput rates of 367
pallets per hour, facilitating faster turn times and allowing Lineage to maintain smaller inventories to meet customer demands effectively.
Lineage Logistics Chief Information Officer Sundarsan Thattai is pleased with the results.
“From the time we put in a truckload order, to the time the pallets arrive in the ready lane, is just nine minutes — faster than the 12 minutes we had in our business case. We expect that to drop to six minutes as we gain more experience,” Thattai said.
Vectura automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) Swisslog’s tally of more than 600 ASRS implementations globally include success in challenging conditions, such as operating in frozen food warehouses at temperatures as low as -30ºC, or ambient environments with temperatures as high as +50ºC.
Key to the success of many such installations is the multi-talented and energy-efficient Vectura fully automated pallet stacker crane for storage and retrieval of palletised goods in high bay warehouses, used in more than 2000 customer projects.
Vectura’s sustainability credentials include up to 20% lower energy consumption compared with traditional cranes, thanks to innovative mast design and lighter crane weight.
Swisslog‘s Vectura stacker crane has a modular structure and is designed based on a set of standard components and modules to offer maximum flexibility. It can be used for single, double-, triple- to multi-deep storage, using its RowCarrier feature.
Designed to store and retrieve where a high variety of pallets and heavy products need to be stored, Vectura brings together the best engineering and pallet stacking know-how in the industry.
Designed and tested in Sweden, Vectura embodies Swisslog’s commitment to innovation and excellence in pallet handling technology, delivering efficient and reliable tailored solutions wherever it is employed.
Whether in high-rise buildings with limited space, or extreme temperature environments, Swisslog’s constantly evolving Vectura crane system showcases the company’s ability to provide cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving demands of the automated logistics industry on global and local scales. Swisslog swisslog.com/en-au
Multifunctional energy-efficient Vectura high bay warehouse pallet stacker cranes are used in more than 2,000 customer projects
CeMAT PREVIEW 2024
ErgoPack makes pallet strapping easy
In the world of logistics and warehousing, efficiency and productivity are the names of the fast-paced game. Companies constantly seek innovative solutions to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance the safety of their employees.
The ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic Pallet Strapping System, designed and manufactured by ErgoPack Germany, is a shining example of how technology can revolutionise the way people secure and transport goods.
The importance of pallet strapping cannot be overstated: it’s the final step to ensure products are not only protected during transport but also remain stable and safe for handling. Traditional manual strapping methods, while effective, can be physically demanding and
time-consuming for employees. Major companies worldwide have given their endorsement to the ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic System due to its strong emphasis on ergonomics, efficiency, and user-friendliness. This innovative system integrates features from both manual and fully automatic strapping systems, achieving a harmonious balance that enhances pallet-strapping processes.
Key features:
1. Enhanced ergonomics: The user-centric design significantly reduces the physical strain on employees by automating the strap feeding, tensioning, and sealing processes, allowing them to work more comfortably and efficiently.
This improves workplace safety and increases productivity.
2. Customised strapping: The system offers versatile strapping options, allowing businesses to choose strapping PET or PP materials and dimensions to suit their needs. This adaptability ensures products are securely strapped, regardless of their shape, size, or weight.
3. Intuitive operation: The ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic System is user-friendly. Employees can quickly learn to operate the system, minimising training time and reducing the likelihood of errors.
4. Increased throughput: Thanks to its semi-automatic design, this system significantly accelerates the strapping process, enabling companies to handle a higher volume of pallets in less time.
5. Cost-effective: While offering the efficiency of automated strapping, the ErgoStrap system is more budget-friendly than fully automatic alternatives, so it can benefit businesses of all sizes.
6. Sustainability: In today’s environmentally conscious world, the ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic
System aligns with sustainability goals. It optimises strapping materials and reduces waste and environmental impact.
The ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic Pallet Strapping System is a gamechanger for the logistics and warehousing industry. By optimising the strapping process and improving the well-being of employees, it offers a clear advantage.
It sets a new standard in the world of pallet strapping. Businesses that adopt it will enjoy enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and a safer work environment.
ErgoStrap Australia is the only authorised licensed distributor of the ErgoStrap Semi-Automatic Pallet Strapping System. The system’s positive impact on efficiency, safety, and overall operational excellence is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing top-notch solutions for the packaging and strapping needs of businesses worldwide.
CeMAT PREVIEW 2024
Blickle solutions for intralogistics
Despite increasingly complex logistical processes with increased digitalisation and greater use of robots, wheels and castors are still often at the heart of intralogistics. That is why reliability is required.
Blickle offers solutions for all industries, from intralogistics to conveyor technology, mechanical and plant engineering, or mobile devices and appliances.
Blickle products ensure a faster and more efficient internal material flow while helping to create ergonomic workplaces and prevent accidents.
Digitalisation, automation, and individualisation are global megatrends that have a lasting impact on intralogistics. Intelligent information systems such as telematics, robotics, and sensors, as well as innovative hardware solutions such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or tugger trains, help ensure that the in-house material flow can be optimally managed.
The challenges here are enormous, as ever-larger flows of goods have to be moved ever faster—all
without sacrificing efficiency or allowing disruptions.
Intralogistics processes In combination with modern technologies, transport equipment is the backbone of intralogistics. Blickle wheels and castors play an important role in a number of different intralogistics processes to ensure that materials are transported efficiently, safely, and reliably.
Integrating wheels and castors into a wide variety of logistical processes with increasing travel speeds and high demands on occupational safety and ergonomics means they need to be high-tech products.
As a supplier of running gear components, Blickle has followed this development in a wide variety of industries for many decades.
Blickle offers wheel and castor solutions for many of the challenges within the intralogistics sector.
Going a step further
In addition to its comprehensive standard range, Blickle also manufactures a wide variety of special solutions.
Grenzebach Maschinenbau
GmbH, a provider of a range of innovative automation solutions, is a technology leader in a number of different markets. Its automated transport solutions include the Grenzebach L1200S AGV, which uses wheels and castors from Blickle. This vehicle moves beneath units like desks, trolleys, frames, or shelving, lifts them up, and transports them to a specific destination. The AGV can handle up to 1.2 tons, with the load oriented in either direction. It can also rotate on the spot.
In close cooperation with the product developers from Grenzebach, Blickle created a solution perfectly adapted to its requirements.
The castors needed a high load capacity and a low installation height. The special support roller LSD-ALTH fit the bill: solid, steelwelded swivel head, minimal height tolerance that is indispensable for the extremely compact installation space, twin wheel castor, suitable for load capacities of up to 600 kilograms in continuous operation with low swivel resistance.
Both of the wheels integrated into the twin wheel castor use the solid Blickle Extrathane® polyurethane tread with a hardness of 92 Shore A. This keeps the rolling resistance low, minimises abrasion, and provides a particularly high level of resistance to cuts and tear propagation. An antistatic version protects against electrical discharges.
The drive wheels of the AGV need to be particularly abrasion-resistant while also providing a high level of operational performance in a tight predefined space. The solution: GBA 178x50/8, a special drive wheel with specialised flange geometry. The high-quality, premium 92 Shore A Blickle Besthane® tread is cast onto the cast iron wheel centre. The wheel is extremely abrasion-resistant and has a low level of rolling
“Integrating wheels and castors into a wide variety of logistical processes with increasing travel speeds and high demands on occupational safety and ergonomics means they need to be high-tech products.”
resistance, which increases energy efficiency. The castor and the drive wheel from Blickle allow the unit to be used around the clock.
Blickle’s growth
Blickle was established in 1953 and is still a family-owned company. It has grown from a small craft business into a leading global manufacturer of wheels and castors in just two generations. It is known for uncompromising quality, high levels of availability, innovation, and reliability.
Today, Blickle is a global leader in the production of wheels and castors, with more than 1300 employees worldwide.
There are over 30,000 wheels, swivel castors, and fixed castors in its standard range, with load capacities from 25 to 50,000 kg.
Blickle has a proven track record of developing systems and special solutions capable of handling up to 170 tons. In addition to the Blickle Australia branch in Queensland and the headquarters in Rosenfeld, Blickle operates 20 sales subsidiaries in Europe, North America, and Asia, exporting its products to over 120 countries.
Blickle’s wide range of over 30,000 standard products provides the perfect solution for almost any situation. All of the products are high-quality, maintenance-free, available quickly, and have a long service life. They are unique solutions for intralogistics that set new standards in ergonomics, occupational safety, and efficiency.
Blickle blickle.com.au
The Grenzebach L1200S AGV uses wheels and castors from Blickle.
www.blickle.com.au
sales@blickle.com.au
Aardwolf does the heavy lifting
Every industry has a pain point and often, it’s those at the coalface that come up with the solution.
James Corbett was a stonemason by trade and in the 1980’s he owned and operated two large marble and granite processing companies in Australia, employing 80 workers.
The problem he faced was the dangerous operation of moving and handling heavy slabs of marble and granite.
So he invented a lifting clamp for lifting marble and granite, which he patented in 1995. It made it easier and safer for stonemasons to do their work. That was the genesis of
the first slab lifter.
The Aardwolf Slab Lifting Clamp is now the standard in stone processing tards all over the world, a testament to the success of Corbett’s invention. It boasts the following advantages;
• Compact Design: Allows it to retrieve closely packed stone slabs from racks and containers, eliminating the challenges associated with traditional scissor clamps.
• Versatility: It is well-suited for various construction tasks. The clamping mechanism at the front of the slab allows for the secure placement of panels close to walls.
• Safety: It can engage and grip slabs with minimal movement of the slab, which is typically well below the overbalance angle when slabs are stored against slab racks, ensuring operator safety.
• Secure Grip: Provide a secure grip on marble and granite slabs, boasting a force-multiplying factor of approximately 2.5 to 1.
Aardwolf is a family business, operated by Corbett’s three children. General Manager Helen Corbett said the slab lifter was a gamechanger for the industry.
“Before that, stonemasons were using slings and other types of lifters that weren’t very efficient,” she said.
“The slab lifter works on gravity. As the plates of the lifter come in and lift up, they grab onto the slab. When it’s lifted back down, the jaws will automatically release the slab when it touches the ground.”
“It’s easier to lift because the worker isn’t in the way of the slab as it’s going up and down. It’s also a lot safer.”
Aardwolf started off being a manufacturer and seller of material handling equipment for the stone industry and has expanded to any industry that require lifting, such as glass, sheet
metal, construction and cartons.
“We have a really wide product range and we manufacture all the Aardwolf products ourselves.
The advantage is we are an Australian company with good quality products, we manufacture in Vietnam to offer a competitive price,” Corbett said.
Aardwolf’s range spans lifters that can take on four tonne to those that lift by hand as well as vacuum lifters.
“Our latest one is called the mobile vacuum tube lifter, which lifts cartons,” Corbett said.
“The scissor lifter, ASL-105, lifts concrete sleepers for landscapers. It can lift up to 750kg and can be attached to the end of an excavator. The horizontal stone lifting clamp, AHLC-730, is mainly used for sandstone blocks and can lift up to 1,500kg.
“Stonemasons are still our biggest customer base, closely followed by landscapers who are lifting sandstone or concrete sleepers.”
Horizontal Lifter AHLC-730 for lifting sandstone blocks
HANDLING
Southwell Lifts & Hoists celebrates 80 years in 2025
Southwell Lifts & Hoists celebrates 80 years of innovation
Southwell Lifts & Hoists prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2025, a testament to its enduring innovation, resilience and excellence in engineering. It’s proud to have created an enduring legacy as a cornerstone of the vertical transport industry in Australia.
The early years: Founding and initial growth
Founded in 1945, Southwell began its journey in the post-World War II era, when industrial growth was paramount to rebuilding economies. The company’s inception was rooted in addressing the burgeoning need for reliable lifting solutions in various industries, including manufacturing, construction and logistics. With a vision to deliver high-quality, dependable products, the founders laid a strong foundation to support decades of innovation and growth. Initially, Southwell focused on manufacturing simple hoists and lifts designed to meet the needs of local businesses. The company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction quickly garnered a loyal customer base, setting the stage for future expansions.
Technological advancements and product diversification
The 1960s and 1970s marked significant technological advancements as Southwell expanded its product line to include more sophisticated lifting solutions. Hydraulic and
electric-powered hoists revolutionised the industry, offering improved efficiency and safety.
The freestanding goods hoist was a hallmark achievement of this era. Capable of lifting substantial weights to considerable heights, it became a staple in warehouses and factories. Its design flexibility and robustness made it a preferred choice for many industries, showcasing Southwell’s ability to innovate and adapt to market demands.
Expansion and modernisation: The 1980s and 1990s
By the 1980s, Southwell had firmly established itself as a leader in the Australian vertical transport industry. As the demand for reliable and efficient lifting solutions grew globally, it expanded its operations beyond Australia.
The 1990s were characterised by modernisation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Southwell invested heavily in R&D, creating advanced hoisting systems that incorporated state-of-the-art electronics and automation. This era also saw the introduction of the in-shaft goods hoist, a cost-effective alternative to traditional lifts that required minimal pit and overrun space.
The turn of the Century: Embracing sustainability and custom solutions
As the world entered the 21st century, sustainability became a key focus worldwide. Southwell responded to this shift by developing eco-friendly lifting solutions that minimised energy consumption and reduced environmental impact. Its products were designed to be durable and energy-efficient. Southwell began to emphasise custom solutions. Whether it was a unique lifting requirement for a specialised industry or a complex project demanding bespoke engineering, Southwell’s ability to deliver customised solutions became one of its defining strengths. This customer-centric approach enhanced client satisfaction and opened new avenues for growth and innovation.
Recent innovations and achievements
In the past two decades, Southwell has continued to lead the industry with ground breaking innovations, such as the development of car hoists with integrated turntables to address the urban challenge of space
constraints in parking facilities. These hoists allow for efficient use of limited space, enabling vehicles to be lifted and rotated seamlessly to maximise parking efficiency.
The company’s dedication to excellence is also evident in its airport ground support equipment. These specialised lifting solutions are designed to meet the rigorous demands of the aviation industry, ensuring safety, reliability and efficiency in airport operations. Southwell’s expertise in this niche market underscores its versatility and capability to excel in diverse sectors.
The people behind the success
At the heart of Southwell’s success is its people. The company has always prioritised fostering a culture of innovation, teamwork and professional development. The expertise and dedication of its engineers, technicians and support staff have been instrumental in driving the company forward. Southwell’s commitment to employee wellbeing and continuous learning has created a work environment where creativity and excellence thrive.
Leadership has also played a crucial role in shaping Southwell’s journey. Visionary leaders with a keen understanding of market trends and a relentless drive for innovation have steered the company through various challenges and opportunities. Their strategic foresight and ability to adapt to changing market dynamics have been pivotal in maintaining Southwell’s competitive edge.
Looking to the future
From its humble beginnings in 1945 to its current status as a leader in the vertical transport industry, Southwell’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and adaptability.
Looking ahead, the company is set to continue its tradition of pioneering solutions that meet the changing needs of its customers. With a strong foundation built on quality, innovation and customer satisfaction, Southwell is well-positioned to embrace the future and achieve new heights of success.
Southwell Lifts & Hoists is a premium engineering lift and hoist provider, with bespoke solutions available. Phone +61 2 4655 7007 or email sales@southwell.com.au to get started on your next project.
Southwell Lifts & Hoists southwell.com.au
Southwell have been engineering and manufacturing in Australia since 1945
Self driven aircraft tail dock scissor work platform with height of 14.5m.
Scissor lift and other bespoke solutions for the aviation industry.
35 Years of Exceptional Partnership: MAVERick’s Enduring Legacy in Handling Solutions
MAVERick, a name synonymous with innovation and premium quality in handling solutions, is celebrating its 35-year partnership with Logitrans A/S. Underscoring this milestone is MAVERick recently receiving the Logitrans Dealer Excellence Award and being appointed as a Premium
Dealer. The honour is a testament to MAVERick’s unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier handling equipment, catering to the needs of industries both large and small. From the biggest businesses in manufacturing to the smallest companies requiring reliable handling solutions, MAVERick continues to stand strong post-handover to Rohan Plaw, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in the field.
The relationship between MAVERick and Logitrans began at an industrial tradeshow in Hannover in April 1989. Greig Maver, the founder of MAVERick, met Erling Pedersen, founder and chairman of Logitrans A/S. Reflecting on the origins of this enduring partnership, Mr Pedersen shared, “Wow, has it really been 35 years? What a trip down memory lane this takes me.”
Pedersen fondly remembers how Maver got into his car after the tradeshow
in Hannover and drove all the way to Ribe, Denmark. “Those were different times, and different ways of doing business,” Mr Pedersen said. “We had such great talks in Hannover about our possibilities of doing business together that he simply had to come up to Denmark with me and see for himself. Keep in mind that in those early days of doing trade shows, we only brought to Hannover what we could fit into the back of our truck, which wasn’t a lot.”
This hands-on approach and mutual commitment to quality laid the foundation for a relationship that has spanned decades. The first order was placed by MAVERick on 22 May 1989, followed by the shipment of 24 different lifters from Ribe, Denmark, to Australia by the end of June.
Mr Pedersen said staff from Logitrans have visited MAVERick on several occasions. “We have spent many hours with MAVERick’s customers, working on customised solutions for these. We have crafted some great solutions over the years, I would say. Quite a few of these other of our dealers have benefited from as well. I guess we have just seen eye to eye on many aspects of work, which has made it all fall into place quite naturally. But also away from work, these 35 years of partnership have allowed a fond bond to grow between us, and our families. This, I will always cherish.”
When MAVERick was first brought on as a Logitrans dealer in 1989, there were no IT systems to keep, maintain, and use customer data as part of daily operations. Pedersen explains that the Australian dealer’s internal account is number 33, and there are very few dealers with lower numbers still active today. “Certainly, MAVERick is among our dealers with the most seniority and history – and we hope to grow it even further,” Mr Pedersen states.
In understanding MAVERick’s success, it is noteworthy to highlight other longstanding partnerships. These include MAVERick’s 30-year relationship with Edmolift AB, the nearly 30-year association with Pronomic, over 30 years of selling New Mechanic, and a more than 20-year partnership with Bishamon Japan. Such enduring alliances underscore MAVERick’s consistent dedication to quality and reliability in the material handling solutions industry.
MAVERick’s product offerings include a range of specialist handling solutions, such as the large reel/roll handling and drum handling equipment from Logitrans.
The fully powered reel rotator, available in four versions, ensures that all functions – clamping, lifting, and rotation – can be performed by one operator from a safe distance using remote control. The multi drum turner, available in both electric “push behind” and fully powered versions, handles drums of various materials and dimensions, making it a versatile tool for any operation.
In an industry where budgets are scrutinised, MAVERick’s emphasis on reliable, long-lasting equipment stands out. Investing in quality handling solutions from MAVERick ensures not only immediate operational efficiency but also long-term savings. Inferior products, though cheaper upfront, often lead to increased costs due to frequent replacements, decreased productivity, and hidden costs associated with procurement processes. MAVERick’s philosophy is clear: buy quality, buy it once, and enjoy the benefits of reliable
equipment that will serve your business for years to come.
As MAVERick marks its 35-year Logitrans milestone, it is a reminder to the industry of the company’s strength and unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite recent changes, MAVERick continues to deliver premium quality handling solutions, supporting businesses of all sizes in achieving their operational goals. The legacy of MAVERick is one of resilience, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to quality, ensuring that the company remains a trusted partner in the material handling industry for many years to come.
CONTACT MAVERICK EQUIPMENT
MAVERick Equipment have supplied thousands of innovative & reliable Handling & Lifting solutions from quality suppliers in Australia, Japan & Europe.
We specialise in:
• Roll & Reel Handling Food Packaging / Printing
• Stainless Steel Units Food & Pharmaceutical
• Custom-Build Units
Suit your specific application
Show us & explain your requirements. We can offer & illustrate various options to suit.
Manufacturing and Design Solutions solves operational challenges
Alexander Berdyshevski likes solving problems. He founded Manufacturing and Design Solutions (MADS) to help manufacturing businesses with their pain points and bring operations to the next level.
MADS’s expertise is in transforming manufacturing processes with smart technology and methodology. Berdyshevski believes that in order to stay competitive, it is critical for manufacturing businesses to
Bonfiglioli
Tcontinuously apply modern technologies and methods that minimise costs and improve efficiency.
As the Principal Engineer and Managing Director, he wants to help companies implement new manufacturing processes or improve their existing ones.
“Our USP is that we take a comprehensive approach, from a conceptual design to implementing the complete vision,” he said.
“I believe that our main strength
is assisting companies develop a vision of where they would like to be in a few year’s time and come up with a staged project plan to design and implement it.
“We are also happy to solve a specific problem like automation of a specific operation, design a specialised station or fixture to improve productivity, minimise cost or implement a vision inspection”.
MADS has more than 35 years of experience in a wide range of
industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, process and other manufacturing sectors.
Its expertise extends to process design or improvements, manufacturing systems and equipment design, automation and project management from the concept stage until full implementation.
“The whole purpose is to improve efficiency for manufacturing companies,” Berdyshevski said.
“The main advantage of MADS is that we are a tool that offers a comprehensive approach for future manufacturing processes. We like doing a bit of everything.
“I’ve been doing it all my life as a mechanical engineer working in manufacturing, which is why I started my own business in 2015. I decided to have some fun — I like working across different projects in different industries.”
MADS is clearly good at what it does. It helped engineer a new manufacturing line for ZIP Waters, which became a finalist for the Australian Engineering Excellence Awards 2020.
BX Series powers industrial applications for manufacturers
he BX Series asynchronous motor from manufacturer Bonfiglioli meets the demands and standards of the manufacturing sector.
Bonfiglioli Australia and New Zealand MD Martin Broglia believes its reputation is based on efficiency and a reputation for reliability.
“Thanks to its high-quality design, reliability and long operating life, the BX Series remains a popular solution for manufacturers,” he said.
“This is a solution that reduces operating costs, without compromising performance or reliability”.
A robust, versatile and flexible solution
With its robust aluminium frame, the BX Series motor is ideal for use in a wide range of industrial applications, from conveying and carton filling to material handling. It ensures compliance with regulations, as it’s globally certified, including DOE, NRCan, and CCC.
The BX Series is available in a range of different voltages (up to 22 kW), with multiple brake and motor
options, allowing for easy customisation to suit specific application requirements.
“From the initial consultation right through to commissioning of a complete solution, our engineering specialists and design teams work closely with customers to understand their unique requirements and application challenges, as well as to calculate and simulate their machine or system capabilities and optimise the associated transmission performance,” Broglia said.
Customers can choose from various protection classes up to IP 56, as well as tropicalised designs, corrosion-resistant paint, and anti-condensation heaters. In addition, for added control and enhanced security, the BN/M and BX/MX motor Series are also available in the BrakeMotor version with a selection of AC or DC brakes.
“The BX Series is designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of gearboxes from Bonfiglioli’s portfolio, for a complete solution that mitigates compatibility challenges,” Broglia said.
Delivering energy efficiency and cost savings
Designed to deliver energy efficient performance, the BX Series reduces operating costs and ensures savings.
Both the IEC and compact variant of the BX Series are available in IE3 efficiency classes, adhering to the international standard IEC 60034-30 (and ensuring eco-friendly operation).
Local expertise backed by a global network
Bonfiglioli has over 60 years of experience developing specialised solutions for industrial applications. Through its worldwide network of branches, distributors and service companies, Bonfiglioli extends technical support and comprehensive after-sales service to customers, ensuring they achieve optimal productivity, uptime and profitability.
Offering local assembly and support services, Bonfiglioli delivers prompt spare parts and maintenance services to local customers.
“The manufacturing sector is a key contributor to the local economy, and Bonfiglioli is pleased to support the sector’s growth and success through the supply of products and expertise,” Broglia said.
bonfiglioli.com
Hot, chilled and sparkling water devices assembly lines (Zip Assy Lines)
Bonfiglioli
Tawi Protema Lifters have got your back
TAWI PROTEMA
Make lifting easier with a machine that’s made for the job.
The ergonomic design of Tawi Protema Lifters will decrease heavy manual handling and minimise strain on the backs, shoulders and knees of employees.
Innovative Swedish engineering means the units have ergonomic handles for easy and comfortable operation. The lifter belt is driven which ensures quiet and smooth oil free drive. Hand controls are also user friendly and ergonomically positioned for optimal operation.
A variety of tools make these portable devices suitable for lifting different types of goods, including reels, drums and crates.
These user-friendly lifting trolleys are easily adapted in height, width and strength to meet specific requirements. Pick up goods in one place, move them effortlessly and lift them in place.
On several models, the diameter of the castors make it possible to
drive the lifter in a Euro pallet in three different ways. No matter how short or tall the driver, the ergonomic design makes the Tawi Protema range of trolleys comfortable and easy to drive.
The Tawi Protema Lifters range from 40kg – 180kg and have a lift height from 300mm - 2500mm plus a wide selection of tools for easy handling of reels, drums, crates, boxes and much more.
The efficient detachable battery pack means a long battery life with no cables. The detachable hand control is smoothly detached for optimal operation.
Each Swunit comes with emergency stop, battery status display and integrated operation controls for tooling.
V-BLOCK Rotating Turntable & Lifter
EASY SQUEEZE Squeezes, Lifts & Rotates
CORE GRIPPER Lifts & Rotates
HANDLING
Thinking big: view from the top at Combilift, Ireland
Martin McVicar was never in any doubt that Combilift would be successful, after starting the company in 1998 with partner Robert Moffet, with whom he’d worked at Moffett Engineering which makes the red forklifts seen on the back of many delivery vehicles.
“At no stage in 25 years have I ever had any doubt,” says Combilift’s CEO today.
“One of the things about the Australian market is that it’s very receptive to innovative products”
He left school at 17 and studied engineering modules through open university but did not complete the degree. Then, in 2011, he attended a leadership programme for a few weeks at Stanford University in the US and was impressed by the Americans’ positive, ambitious attitude, which he then embraced and infused into Combilift’s culture.
“The American mentality is ‘think big’, they’re not afraid to be boastful. And I think one limitation of Irish companies is we don’t preach enough about how good our business is. And of course, if you don’t get your name out there, how can you expect to grow larger?”
At that time, McVicar had been thinking that Combilift could become a billion-dollar company if it grew at 10% per year, but after the leadership course, he increased it to 15% a year.
The company’s Australian operations are just about meeting that growth target, “with swings and roundabouts,” says Chris Littlewood, Combilift’s Country Manager for Australia.
“While not being quite there yet, we are well on our way to hitting that target,” Littlewood says.
Combilift had a little help getting its foot in Australia after already selling to the New Zealand market first via Tara Forklifts. It was Tara Forklifts’ Sydney dealer—an Irishman visiting the green, green grass of home—who put Combilift in touch with its first few customers in Australia without any Combilift personnel having to get on a plane. The relationship has lasted; in Australia, Littlewood still deals with Tara Forklifts.
Australia is now Combilift’s fifth-largest market, after France,
Germany, the UK, and the US.
“One of the things about the Australian market is that it’s very receptive to innovative products,” says McVicar.
“Australian businesses are really anxious to improve efficiency. So with any piece of equipment that can make the business more efficient, Australian customers are very receptive.”
Locally does it
Yet, McVicar feels strongly that it’s vital to keep a factory in Monaghan, Ireland, a county where he grew up on a farm thinking he’d end up working the land.
“It gives you a good feeling in your own area that you are bringing employment. And that does enable a lot of people to either take a mortgage or build their house.”
In a rural area like Monaghan, he says, locals don’t want to buy but want to build their own house, and that extends the contribution to the economy.
“If we can keep the innovation culture, and stay customer-centric, the rest should fall into place”
“Building brings in the supply chain and has a whole knock-on effect for other industries. So you feel that you’ve actually contributed.”
Favouring local employees means the company’s demographics are not as multicultural as some. Women are gaining more of a foothold— about 30% of its new hires in 2022 were women and the National Skills Council (of which McVicar is a member) offers substantial financial incentives for hiring women.
About a decade ago, the company kicked off a traineeship that was run half in classes and half on the shop floor, and about 15 people graduate each year. McVicar, who used to come in on Saturdays and personally test-drive every truck that was ready for shipping the following week, admits he’s been hard to get off the factory floor and is a big believer in the apprenticeship model.
“If you read it in a textbook, I don’t know what percentage you remember, but when you put it into practice, you know it sticks with you.”
As founders of Combilift, McVicar
and Robert Moffett and their early employees established a can-do attitude from the start to encourage innovation. McVicar says many staff say they feel they are given the freedom to be creative.
“Flexibility and liberty to say, ‘I can do this. I’m gonna find the solution.’ But it’s even more than that. I think it’s a trust issue.
“If it’s not the right decision, it’s very seldom anyone will lose their head … What bugs me more is people not making a decision.”
Keeping a creative flame alight
Six years ago, when Combilift had roughly 350 employees and no HR department, McVicar realised the challenge of maintaining creativity as the company grew. Now there’s an HR department and 800 people.
“By growing to 300-odd people and not having an HR department, the creative culture was more embedded. Not to speak negatively about HR, but HR does get more into figures and rules and regulations about what’s possible or not, rather than giving the freedom to be more creative … the biggest challenge
is keeping that creativity without becoming too systematic.”
“If we can keep the innovation culture and stay customer-centric, the rest should fall into place,” he says.
The vision for the future is to be an indigenous Irish business that grows organically in Ireland where Monaghan HQ will always focus on R&D. It doesn’t mean Combilift won’t acquire another business, but it’s not on the immediate radar.
“In the bigger marketplaces, I can envisage we will end up setting up assembly plants … we’ll probably exhaust all possibilities to do it all here first.”
McVicar says he and Combilift don’t have a written contract.
“I have a variable contract in my own mind with the business … that when we set the company up, if I’m healthy I’m going to give this business 50 years — and so I’m only halfway through my working career! Hopefully, we’ll see in another 25 years — it’d be amazing.”
Martin McVicar CEO and co-founder of Combilift has never doubted the company’s growth prospects. Photo: supplied
Smart conveyor systems optimise warehouse workflow
Reducing costs is one of the tenets of good business. Adept Conveyors can help with that. Because when it comes to warehouse fulfillment costs, labour can account for a staggering 65% of them.
Reducing costs, increasing outputs
A smart conveyor system can
dramatically decrease costs and the potential for human error, by allowing employees to focus on skilled activities rather than moving goods manually.
Conveyor systems allow workplaces to optimise processes and workflows so that employees are not spending valuable time moving goods from one place to another.
UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE SPACE!
Combilift’s range of multidirectional forklifts, pedestrian reach trucks, straddle carriers and container loaders will allow you to maximize the capacity, improve efficiency and enhance the safety of your facility.
Optimising processes and workflows with conveyor systems is one way to increase output quantities.
Decades of experience
Adept Conveyors has years of experience designing and manufacturing smart conveyor systems. It helps some of Australia’s leading brands with their warehouse fulfillment.
For those wanting to improve stock fulfillment, picking, sorting or packing processes, Adept Conveyors has the experience and expertise to make it happen.
Along with its extensive knowledge, Adept is continually investing in the latest technologies to increase its ability to solve warehouse challenges.
Conveyor systems to suit you
The understanding that no warehouse is the same underpins Adept’s design process.
Each conveyor system is designed to meet unique requirements, ensuring every client receives the best solution possible.
No matter how big or small, Adept can design and manufacture conveyor systems for every warehouse project.
Quality is key
Conveyor systems that constantly break down and malfunction will affect productivity and performance.
The team at Adept know that downtime costs money, which is why they prioritise quality in all their conveyors.
Combining European components with Australian manufacturing and expertise allows Adept Conveyors to promise a quality product.
Australian owned and manufactured
Adept Conveyors is a family owned company with a focus on quality products and support. It designs and manufactures its conveyor systems in Sydney, NSW.
For those looking to reduce costs and improve productivity, contact Adept Conveyors on (02) 9771 4655 or email sales@adeptconveyor.com au for an obligation-free quote.
To
How to choose the best tools storage
It’s necessary to have the right tools for the job and it’s important to look after those tools. When it comes to storage options, BAC Systems has something that will work for every business.
BAC Systems has been manufacturing storage drawers for 47 years and has built a reputation for storing parts and consumables on a small footprint. It is increasingly being asked to store large inventories of tools in workshops
from all industries.
BAC drawer storage cabinets are modular, enabling businesses to select a cabinet that fits the needs of their workshop. Cabinets with deep drawers maximise storage volume along a length of wall. Shallow cabinets with short-pull drawers are ideal for workshops that require quick access to tools. BAC Systems offers advice on these aspects to ensure every application is matched
with the ideal product.
The space of a workshop will affect the type of tool storage. For some, combining tool storage with a workbench is practical while others prefer freestanding drawers or a wall-mounted shadow-board in a separate tool room to free-up workshop space.
With parts storage, volume is the important metric. For tools that need to be laid-out, cabinets and storage need to be designed by the square metre.
The tool inventory itself has a bearing on storage options. Drawers with a non-slip mat in the base could work but bulk tools require partitioned drawers to minimise the footprint. In some instances, tools will be in cases that need to be stored in shelves with shelf separators to create unique locations to catalogue them. In other cases, shadow boards with hooks and toolbars offer easy communal access to tools.
How a business operates, or the flow of the work, may dictate the best tool storage method. Those in a lean manufacturing environment will need to create unique tool locations, while eliminating spaces for unnecessary tools to be stored. Those requiring a flexible layout
Increasing outputs, Improving efficiencies
Smart conveyor systems for smart businesses
may choose to equip storage systems with castors for mobility.
BAC Systems helps businesses consider all of these possibilities and works out the best storage solution for every scenario. To find out how BAC Systems tool storage can enhance your workplace, contact the BAC technical sales team.
HANDLING
Safety is paramount on a building site, and load limiters are crucial for ensuring the safety of crane lifting operations. While mechanical load limiters are an excellent option to control lifting, handling, and overload to keep workers safe, electronic load limiters go a step further by recording times and currents.
Liftco’s new electronic load limiter, the LL211, is designed for use with current transformers (CTs) to limit the load of hoisting devices such as electric chain hoists and electric wire rope hoists. It can be used on a single-speed motor with
just one CT required. For dual-speed motors, both high and low speeds can be monitored using two CTs.
The unit can monitor both slow and fast speeds and can be programmed to cut out the supply at a predetermined level. Two set points eliminate false alerts from motor start-up amperage spikes.
The LL211 monitors the working load of a hoisting motor based on the motor’s electrical current in both low and high speeds. All times and currents are digitally stored in memory, and the motor current is displayed on the LED screen during operation. Installation and set-up
are quick with pre-wired cable and current transformers.
Principle of Operation
The LL211 can simulate the amount of load lifted by a motor according to the electrical current drawn by the motor. A hoist motor is designed to lift a safe working load (SWL). Based on the horsepower required and the power supply, a nominal motor current is established for the SWL. If the hoist motor attempts to lift a load above the SWL, a higher motor current will be detected, and the limit device activated, preventing lifting.
How Load Limiters Work
While Australian Standard AS 1418 dictates that a load limiter is desirable, it does not dictate the design. Over the years, several new designs have emerged. Unlike some designs, the Liftco load limiter has stood the test of time, with the best part of 30 years of continuous service. The design is elegant in its simplicity: the crane cable is threaded through a hole in a piston mounted in a C-shaped frame. As the load on the cable increases, the piston is pulled out of its cylinder, working against a precisely calibrated spring resistance. When the load exceeds the set resistance, the piston
triggers a heavy-duty microswitch, sending a shutdown signal to the crane controller.
When used on any gantry crane, a suitably specified and calibrated Liftco load limiter gives the operator confidence that the crane is not attempting to lift too great a load – a load that could damage the crane motor and its structure and potentially cause a serious safety breach. Units are available with load limits from 200 kg to 15 t, covering multifall gantry cranes up to 120 t capacity, using one load limiter per cable. They are supplied ready for use and can easily be calibrated to different values on-site with the adjustment of a simple lock nut.
Options include:
• A second microswitch set to a slightly lower value for an additional alarm signal below the load limit.
• An equally simple underload limiter that can be used to prevent damage to the load and the crane mechanism during lowering.
Liftco liftco.com.au
ON OVERHEAD CRANES
LOAD LIMITERS
ROPE AND CHAIN CRANES AND HOISTS
• Helps reduce the risk of accidents
• Protects against overloading of crane and supporting structures
• Quick and easy installation and available for all capacity cranes
• Available preset or easily calibrated on site
• Helps reduce maintenance costs
• Minimises down time
• Automatic reset by reducing the load
CONDUCTOR BAR
• Available in steel & copper
• Quickly and easily installed
• Supports required only every 1.5m
• Also available in a compact cluster range SIDE
Prevents side pulling and protects rope guides and drums on most multi-fall cranes & hoist
Prevent dragging of loads
Easily fitted to any crane/hoist
Helps reduce down time
New online resources for electric vehicle charge stations
The rise of electric vehicles (EV) sees a growing need for more EV charging stations. It makes sense, but just as there are a myriad of design differences between cars there are a number of different requirements for charging stations. Will it be located in a residential neighbourhood or in a corporate environment? Is it needed to charge a large fleet or top up an occasional user?
This is why Element14 has released its latest solutions guide for EV charging stations, covering everything from development and power management to connectivity and security.
Element14 Regional Solutions Marketing Manager, Ankur Tomar said it will provide definitive solutions.
“We have devoted many hours of technical expertise into this guide. The entire team of contributors felt it was vital to share their expertise to ensure that all those who are engaging in the development of EV charging solutions were able to get definitive answers that would enable them to make fast, yet highly
confident decisions,” Tomar said.
“We believe all of that knowledge, and more, is reflected in its content, making it a useful how-to-guide that incorporates all the relevant technical information too.”
The guide recognises the diversity of EV charging station requirements and their respective applications as they rapidly populate areas ranging from residential neighbourhoods and commercial complexes to workplaces, public spaces and designated corporate fleet charging platforms.
Whether a developer is creating a new solution for occasional vehicle charging or innovative quick charge stations for busy travellers on the go, this guide will help them arrive at the ideal EV charging infrastructure for their application faster, and more confidently.
In addition to the new solutions guide, Element14 has amassed a huge repository of online information on EV charger solutions hub from details about power distribution units, input protection, connectors and payment security through to microcontrollers, PLCs
and everything in between. The library of materials for EVs is readily available with not only practical application and operational details, but detailed individual product information and pricing.
“This is one of the most comprehensive reference resources we have ever compiled, and it illustrates the importance we place on EV charging and associated markets. It is an especially valuable source of information
for the transition to more efficient energy use,” Tomar said.
Industrial Door SolutionsClearly
Element14 EV Solutions
Element14 EV Reference Library
Accurpress brake-s the mould
When it comes to press brakes, experience is gold.
Accurpress Australia
Operations Manager, Wayne Strother, said design differences occur amongst manufacturers whilst the core functions remain the same. To stand out from the competition, Accurpress combines customisation with its local service and experience.
“That’s what differentiates us from a lot of companies that supply press brakes in Australia. You’re dealing with the manufacturer as opposed to an agent or third party, which is fairly unique,” he said.
Accurpress manufactures press brakes in North America and China, but all technical systems are designed for the Australian market, which has some of the world’s highest safety standards.
The system design component is important because it allows Accurpress Australia to customise press brakes for individual applications.
“We find out what it is that our customer needs and produce solutions for them,” Strother said.
“Whilst Accurpress has standard machine specifications, we never say these are the machines we’ve got, pick one. We aren’t into telling customers what they get; we find what their individual applications require and build a machine for them.”
Accurpress is currently working with a company in NSW’s Southern Highlands on a customised press brake.
“They had a very old machine and wanted a new model. I’m familiar with that machine and was able to use my knowledge of it to come up with a design that featured new technology but would suit their production needs,” Strother said.
“It turned out the smallest length machine in our standard range was too big. We managed to go back to the design stage to produce an 800tonne machine that’s 3.2m long. Our smallest standard size in the
required tonnage is 4m.
“We had to do a bit of work; they couldn’t pick one off the shelf. They needed a high tonnage machine that was also quite short in length.
“Our point of difference is that we are the manufacturer so we can build what you want.”
Accurpress International was founded in North America in 1973. Its president, Tim Hilton, teamed up with Michael Stratos in 2015 to launch Accurpress Australia. As one of the founders of the Laser Safe Press brake safety systems, Stratos has unparalleled technical and service experience which benefits the local market.
A new press brake is a significant investment. When customers purchase an Accurpress machine, they’re also buying Stratos’s local service and experience.
“It comes down to the fact that you’re dealing with the manufacturer,” Strother said.
“The person that designs these machine systems, Michael, is extremely intelligent with a long history in the industry. He’s the one on the ground overseeing installations and he’s also the person you can get on the phone if you have questions or a technical issue.
“I come from a fabrication engineering background, pressing and rolling, and I’ve known Michael for the best part of 30 years. I purchased an Accurpress machine for a previous company I ran; a defining reason for choosing Accurpress was because of Michael’s technical experience.
“I like to think that our customers take that on board as well.”
Birds Eye amps up its sustainable packaging
It’s hard to avoid plastic at the grocery store, but there are better kinds of plastic available.
Birds Eye is moving away from virgin plastic and sourcing PostConsumer Recycled (PCR) material, starting with its plastic steam bags.
This year, three products across Birds Eye’s Steamfresh Vegetables range will consist of 22% recycled content within the steam bags, with plans for a broader roll-out in coming years.
The move towards PCR plastic is a big development for the freezer aisle.
Birds Eye’s Senior Director of Marketing (APAC), Katie Saunders, said the introduction of PCR is a starting point in the business’s long-term plan to decrease the use of virgin plastic.
“We recognise consumers and retailers are increasingly seeking sustainable packaging solutions without compromising on quality and convenience. We share this desire to do more with less and to
operate to the highest sustainability standards,” she said.
“Our move to incorporate 22% recycled plastic into our Steamfresh 750g inner bags ensures Australians can now extend their eco-conscious purchasing behaviours to the freezer aisle.
“The incorporation of recycled material across our Steamfresh inner bags means 4.6 tonnes of virgin plastic will be eliminated annually, which is something we’re really proud of.”
In 2023, the brand removed 15% virgin plastic from the Steamfresh outer bags and from 2026 hopes to have access to locally collected and processed PCR, aiming for a minimum of 30% PCR.
“This is another positive step in our mission to support a circular packaging economy. We’re committed to sourcing more Australian PCR content as it becomes available, expanding its inclusion across the
Birds Eye range,” Saunders said. The update follows an initiative in 2021 that saw Birds Eye refresh all its outer packaging bags to a more sustainable structure, moving
from laminate to a recyclable mono material to ensure the packaging can be recycled where facilities are available.
For over 60 years, Bonfiglioli has been developing tailored transmission and drive solutions for industrial automation and wind energy. With a network of 21 branches and 14 production plants in 80 countries around the globe, we bring you tried and tested world class solutions. Let’s build the next 60 years, together.
Packing machinery looks to Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies
Sydney-based Packserv began as a packaging equipment machinery and technical services business for manufacturers in 2007, just before the global financial crisis strangled many. Now, it’s taken a leap into Industry 4.0 by making a digitised, twin-lane, 8-cylinder filling machine.
Packserv is a strong advocate for Australian-made manufacturing; its packaging machinery is made locally here in Australia, supporting local FMCG manufacturers.
Having started manufacturing capping and filling equipment in-house, its range now includes equipment for filling, capping, labelling, container handling, and infeed and outfeed tables. The company provides training, service, and support to all customers, primarily from the FMCG, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
Packserv was deemed an essential service during Covid, and the company invested in more machinery while the market was quiet so that FMCG manufacturers could access equipment immediately, avoiding significant supply chain disruptions and long lead times.
Managing Director Nathan Wardell steered the business through that second crisis for manufacturers and now believes the dust has settled and industry prospects are looking up.
“I think the lower end of the manufacturing industry’s SMEs disappeared during Covid and the last four years. The survivors, they want to compete — including with international product,” Wardell said.
“We service the SME market and have found that SME customers who used to want to fill five to 10 to 20 units a minute now want to do it twice as fast.”
While Wardell sees industry
accelerating processes to be competitive, Packserv strives to give customers no more than they need. The company enjoys working with companies that are starting out; to fit customers’ growth, Packserv has a buy-for-life philosophy with its machinery, offering a simple modular design that can be added to as the customers’ needs change and utilises common spare parts.
Made in Sydney
In-house manufacturing of conveyors and pneumatic fill-and-capping equipment started in Marrickville in 2018. Packserv makes and stocks almost all the filling machine parts in-house, and these are traditionally made with high CNC-machined 316 stainless steel and 6010 aluminium, plus some engineered rubbers and plastics for other parts. This means that Packserv is able to offer immediate access to machinery, parts, and technical support, thus helping FMCG manufacturers put food into the supermarkets and compete against imported alternatives, avoiding 6-12 month lengthy delays.
Pneumatic machines are safer than electric — especially if water or washing is involved or products are flammable.
The digital, two-by-eight, fast filler Most of Packserv’s systems are single-lane, but the company has developed a digitised system which has two incoming lanes and eight adjustable filling cylinders. Known as the eight-head auto filling machine, it’s designed to fill 120-140 units per minute. Eight nozzles shuttle across to fill the second lane’s eight containers, which efficiently saves the wait time of the first eight containers getting out of the way.
“The machine is Industry 4.0 enabled, so it offers real-time remote access capabilities, proactive technical support, and predictive
By Christine Powis
maintenance capabilities. This drives greater productivity, reliability, and efficiency while at the same time reducing and optimising energy consumption. The new design concepts mean the machine is more energy efficient. We’ve also incorporated a closed-loop cleaning system to reduce product changeover durations, reducing operator time,” Wardell said.
The machine’s valve technology can handle different particles and viscosities, so long as the fill is in a ‘flow’ or liquid state.
Collaborations
Packserv is working together with universities and technology partners to introduce Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies into its machinery range.
The company teamed with the University of Technology Sydney for programming its dual-lane filler, and they are continuing to work with UTS grad students to develop AI for it. It’s also working with the University of Sydney to develop long-lasting titanium parts.
Another collaboration with the University of Wollongong is in the realm of additive manufacturing and 3D printing, offering new avenues to enhance manufacturing processes and exploring alternate composite materials that can be utilised in Packserv’s machinery. This means that, as well as making complex parts, routine parts can also be made stronger and at a price that makes them economically viable.
Sales, hire, service, and longevity
The company offers outright sales, long-term and short-term hire — even for a few days — as well as rent-to-buy, leases, and will happily supply an upgrade within its range as well. Packserv sometimes installs
10 or 15 machines in one production line and will source other suppliers’ machines to put a complete solution together if required. Because it makes its own filling-and-capping machines and almost all parts for them, Packserv has stock on hand.
As much as possible, it uses common parts across newer machines so customers can continue using what they started with — or add more as needed.
“We get almost constant calls from people who have bought something online which has broken down or has sensors that work erratically. But in a lot of cases, they are not worth fixing,” Wardell said.
As part of its buy-for-life philosophy, Packserv’s quality machinery offers a simple modular design that can be added to as the customer’s needs change.
“We’d rather sell machines which last, and we often service machines which are still working well at 30 and 40 years old,” Wardell said.
Last year, Packserv generated 60% growth in turnover despite the contraction manufacturing has experienced in the last few years. Wardell expects to see a new raft of startups that need Packserv’s products as our onshore FMCG sector improves.
If he can capture that market, Wardell is looking to invest further in advanced manufacturing and new markets.
SGlobal drinks giant’s new manufacturing facility is recruiting workers
untory Oceania’s state-of-theart carbon-neutral manufacturing and distribution facility in Queensland is set to transform Australia’s beverage industry.
As the $400 million project in Ipswich nears completion it will redefine manufacturing and sustainability standards while creating employment opportunities.
It marks the largest investment in the FMCG sector in a single site in the past decade.
The Ipswich site will give Suntory Oceania, a partnership between Suntory Global Spirits and Suntory Beverage & Food, the ability to craft and distribute its portfolio of over 40 beverage brands and send them across the region. Along with its other manufacturing site and five distribution centres, it makes it the ANZ region’s fourth-largest beverage group, with 1,500 employees.
A career-defining opportunity
With the project near completion, Suntory needs to grow its Australian team and is seeking to fill 160 permanent roles.
Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania Manufacturing Manager Lachlan McIntyre is enthusiastic about the recruitment drive.
“We are incredibly excited about the potential this new facility brings. It’s not just about building a manufacturing facility of the future; it’s about building exceptional teams from the ground up. We are looking for passionate individuals who want to grow with us, contribute to our success, and be a part of an organisation that values innovation, quality, and sustainability,” he said.
“Construction is on track. To date we’ve had over 2,000 workers inducted onto the site and hosting around 500 per day as we build towards our first
State-of-the-art manufacturing and distribution
The Ipswich facility is designed to set new benchmarks in manufacturing excellence.
With the capacity to produce 20 million cases of beverages per year, it will house advanced processing and packaging technologies for Suntory’s brands such as Suntory 196, V Energy, Canadian Club & Dry, Jim Beam White Label Bourbon & Cola and more.
The high-tech facility will be a leader in sustainability for the industry.
“Our Ipswich facility will incorporate cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, ensuring we remain competitive and responsible. We’re actively integrating renewable energy sources and low-emission
technologies and working with strategic partners like Queensland’s own CleanCo to achieve our carbon neutral ambitions while continuing to meet the evolving needs of our consumers,” McIntyre said.
The delivery of the site’s carbon neutral ambitions is the subject of the Australia Food & Grocery Council’s 2024 Sustaining Australia TV series.
Why Suntory?
Founded over 120 years ago, Suntory Group is an international FMCG business with over 300 brands in 120 countries.
It offers a vibrant and inclusive workplace, with opportunities for professional development, flexible work arrangements and competitive salaries.
McIntyre believes in the company’s culture and said that working at Suntory isn’t a job, it’s a career.
“At Suntory, we believe in fostering a work environment that promotes growth, collaboration, and innovation. Our team members are our greatest asset, and we are dedicated to providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed,” he said.
Apply today
Suntory Oceania has multiple manufacturing roles in market, including manufacturing specialists, engineering specialists, new product development coordinator, supply network planner and logistics specialist.
Apply for a position at Suntory Oceania’s new Swanbank facility by scanning the QR code below.
What does the 2024 distribution market look like so far?
We expect to see signs of further design activity, with more new product introductions and projects coming to fruition toward the end of Q2. Hopefully, by the end of the year, we will see reasonably increased demand for electronic components as technology evolves.
Australia is to accelerate progress for engineers, designers and buyers while making interactions with DigiKey easy and efficient.
We offer our Australian customers the world’s largest selection of electronic components in stock and available for immediate shipment. We can get products into the hands of local customers in as little as 72 hours.
What new products and partnerships are you focusing on today? How do you choose a new supplier?
DigiKey wants to seed the Australian market with the latest new product introductions from leading local and global suppliers.
DigiKey has specific supplier criteria and requirements, including product quality, brand authorization, compliance with industry standards,
“Wireless connectivity, industrial automation and electrification, smart sensors, crossarchitecture solutions and rapid prototyping are all key technology trends this year.”
Many vital vertical markets in Australia will develop further in 2024, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, cellular networks, IoT and artificial intelligence.
What distinguishes your market action in Australia?
DigiKey continues to invest in our infrastructure, systems and inventory to support all our customers over the next few exciting years in our industry. Our purpose in
reliability, liability insurance and the ability to meet customer demands.
What services can your customers rely on? How is your service offering evolving?
Beyond the products that accelerate technology innovation, DigiKey also supports engineers with a wealth of digital solutions and tools to make their jobs more efficient. We publish hundreds of articles, blogs, webinars and videos on our website, www.
digikey.co.au, and we have other digital assets, such as our TechForum for problem-solving and Maker.io site for projects and ideas.
We have also launched an Innovation Hub as a web immersive experience to help introduce engineers and designers to DigiKey and our products and services. We also recently launched a new webpage dedicated to the Industrial Sector, focusing on solutions for robotic arms, AGVs and conveyor belts.
DigiKey continues to invest in more robust and predictive web search functionality, higher inventory levels and increased automation in the warehouse, benefitting customers by providing an easy and efficient research, shopping and delivery experience.
What technology scenarios are you ready to bet on for the future? Where do you see the most significant room for growth?
Wireless connectivity, industrial automation and electrification, smart sensors, cross-architecture solutions and rapid prototyping are all key technology trends this year.
The most hyped trends recently are related to AI and data. Many companies are starting to scratch the surface and try things that have the potential to significantly change the way we do business long term. We’re excited to help engineers, designers and makers accelerate progress in these spaces.
In Australia, we continue to see clean automation and control, energy, automotive, transportation and electrification perform well. In the long term, we are very optimistic
that the electronics industry will continue to proliferate in areas we have not seen in the past.
What is your business strategy in Australia going forward?
We want to emphasize the region’s importance to DigiKey. This area always drives innovation and demand. In 2024, we are laser-focused on superior execution and customer experience for our Australian customers.
Last year, we added considerable inventory depth to offer the industry the widest product availability for immediate shipment and are thrilled with the customer response. We closed Q4 2023 with more than 10% more new customers than in Q4 2022.
The customer growth we experienced at the end of 2023 corresponds directly with increases in new design activity we saw earlier in the year and is a positive sign for DigiKey’s and the overall industry’s future.
What business goals have you set for 2024?
We plan to build upon our foundation of high-performing teams, solid digital strategy and superior operational excellence, which will drive our growth in inventory, eCommerce, supplier services, new markets and geographies.
With those strategies in place, we expect to grow our revenue and annual customer count, expand our market share and become increasingly scalable.
All those advancements benefit our customers and we look forward to exceeding their expectations in 2024 and beyond.
DigiKey digikey.com.au
DigiKey Vice President of Global Business Development, Mike Slater, offers Australian engineers and designers a mid-year market assessment.
Digikey packing orders
Mike Slater
PUMPS, ENERGY, WASTE & RECYCLING
Gorman-Rupp pump improves the efficiency of pig farm
Investing in equipment is a big business decision and one that can prove costly if it’s not up to the job. When Midwest Piggery needed a new solution to help with its waste recycling, they were drawn to Hydro Innovations’s trial period.
Midwest Piggery is a mid-size enterprise that has been breeding pigs for over 30 years. It raises the animals and sells them to market. Principal Partner and Manager Mat Collier said that as part of its recycling philosophy, all pig waste is collected and broken down before being used as fertiliser.
“We collect the pig waste in what we call sump pits,” he said.
“The effluent is pumped from the sump up to a holding dam. It then moves progressively through a series of dams before it’s eventually ready for use as a fertiliser.”
The problem
To move the pig waste from the sump to the holding dam, the piggery was using three market leading, helical rotor pumps (also known as progressive cavity pumps). Located at ground level operating on a suction lift, the pumps were proving increasingly inefficient and costly to maintain.
“After we bought the helical rotor pumps, we quickly discovered that they have a very fine tolerance. The suction hose started to block continuously and if the pumps ran dry, the motor would burn out and the rubber stator melted,” Collier said.
“Not only did we have to remove the choke, we had to replace the
stator which was incredibly awkward and frustrating. Getting to the stator is difficult enough and then we had to literally peel away the melted rubber which had stuck to the equipment. Every time we had to clear the choke and replace the stator it took a good three-four hours.”
The process was time intensive and very costly. A new stator costs approximately $1,000 and because the pumps were choking and burning out with increasing regularity, the cost to replace it was also growing.
Over a year, the piggery had spent about $10,000 on new stators. Collier was frustrated with the helical rotor pumps and needed a more efficient solution. Coincidentally, his father-inlaw had just read an article on Hydro Innovations and the Gorman-Rupp pumps they supply. The trial period appealed to Collier, he would be able to see if it worked for the piggery.
The solution
“Having paid and used a series of pumps including submersible ones in the past, I didn’t want to spend any more money on pumps that could not do the job. So coming across a supplier who was happy to let the pump prove itself before I bought it was great,” he said.
After reviewing the piggery’s requirements, Hydro Innovations suggested the Gorman-Rupp T2A3-B wastewater pump fitted with a 4kW motor. The compact model would provide the necessary flow and the pressure.
Hydro Innovations General
Oz offshore wind zone imminent
The first six feasibility licences have been awarded by the federal government to potential offshore wind projects to be built in Australia’s first offshore wind zone off Gippsland, Victoria.
The feasibility licences mean projects can start their detailed assessments such as environmental studies and management plans which will decide feasibility for electricity generation. If feasible, developers then apply for a commercial licence to build.
Consultation with First Nations groups, communities, and marine users will run parallel to the feasibility licence process.
The six project groups awarded are:
• High Sea Wind Pty Ltd
• Gippsland Skies Pty Ltd
• Blue Mackerel North Pty Ltd
• Kut-Wut Brataualung Pty Ltd
• Ørsted Offshore Australia 1 Pty Ltd (Gippsland 01)
• Star of the South Wind Farm Pty Ltd
The government intends to grant another six licences, subject to First Nations consultation. These include:
• Ørsted Offshore Australia 1 Pty Ltd (Gippsland 02)
• Kent Offshore Wind Pty Ltd
• Great Eastern Offshore Wind Farm Project Co Pty Ltd
The government forecasts that
Manager Garry Grant said the Gorman-Rupp T2A3-B is a rugged, self-priming centrifugal solids-handling pump. It’s easy to maintain, the pump has an external removable flap valve which can be removed and inspected without disconnecting the piping or draining the pump casing. If choking does occur, the pump can be easily and quickly unclogged via the removable cover plate.
The design of the pump also allows users to adjust the clearance externally to ensure optimum performance without having to pull it apart. The removable rotating assembly allows the rotating parts to be inspected or replaced by simply loosening four bolts from the drive end of the pump, eliminating the need to disturb the pump casing or piping.
Collier had a 90 day trial, but within 60 days he was convinced the Gorman-Rupp T2A3-B could effectively do the job and purchased it.
The results
“Within two months of having the pump installed at the piggery I knew that it was capable. It moves more liquid than the previous pump and it’s extremely easy to maintain, which for me is the major bonus. The open impeller design makes it very simple to remove any blockages. I only have to loosen two bolts to get inside the pump and clear it which takes me just 15 minutes,” Collier said.
“An added bonus is that we no longer have to waste money purchasing stators.”
Collier was so impressed with the performance of the Gorman-Rupp
this dozen projects could generate 25 GW of electricity, which is enough to power the Gippsland region’s annual industrial consumption 100 times over, or more electricity that the entire state of Victoria generated last year.
The government believes the proposed projects could create more than 15,000 jobs during construction and another 7,500 ongoing jobs.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the feasibility licences were a milestone for Australia’s renewables and employment in Gippsland.
“I’ve awarded feasibility licences to projects that would bring the most rewards for Gippsland, its workforce and for our energy security.”
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said
T2A3-B that he purchased a second pump and is now considering a third.
“It’s great to see that there are still suppliers out there who will stand behind their products and let you trial them before buying. If Hydro Innovations hadn’t let me trial the pump, I doubt I would have bought it upfront because I have been burnt so many times before. After all my negative experiences, the GormanRupp T2A3-B is far more than I hoped for,” Collier said.
Hydro Innovations hydroinnovations.com.au
projects in the Gippsland offshore wind zone will be key to delivering the state’s renewable energy transition and meeting targets of at least 2 gigawatts of offshore wind energy generation by 2032, 4 GW by 2035 and 9 GW by 2040.
“We’re proud to be paving the way for the country’s first offshore wind farms which will harness our world class offshore wind resources and power homes and businesses across Australia with renewable energy.
“These offshore wind projects will also support thousands of jobs in Gippsland and across the supply chain – opening up new opportunities for skills development within the renewable energy industry.”
PUMPS, ENERGY, WASTE & RECYCLING
One of South Australia’s leading manufacturers, KimberlyClark Australia (KCA), has diverted 100% of waste away from landfill at its mill in Millicent.
This sustainability milestone has been reached through reuse and recycling initiatives.
Last year, the company reached a 98% waste reduction milestone. The final 2% is being repurposed into energy in partnership with Waste ResourceCo.
Known for its portfolio of personal care brands, including Kleenex, Huggies, U by Kotex and
VIVA, the company produces 85,000 tonnes of toilet, facial and paper towel products at the Mill each year.
KCA Mill Manager Adam Carpenter is thrilled about the achievement.
“Sustainability has always been a core value for us, and this accomplishment is not only significant for our team but also for the broader Australian manufacturing sector because it demonstrates that this is possible,” he said.
“Moving forward, we remain committed to furthering our environmental efforts. Having surpassed
our initial greenhouse gas reduction goal early in 2022, our current focus is on reducing our Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50%, by 2030. As of 2023 we’ve achieved over 30% in reduction efforts, so we’re well on-track and actively exploring various avenues to drive this figure even lower in the years to come.
“Being based in South Australia, a region renowned for its leadership in climate action and electrical network decarbonisation, is advantageous. We’re capitalising on this by exploring electrification, direct access to renewable energy sources, and collaborative ventures in green hydrogen generation with industry and government partners to help meet our reduction targets.
“We take pride in our Australian manufacturing base, and we hope our efforts inspire others to prioritise sustainability and contribute to our collective goal of preserving our planet.”
The mill has achieved this milestone through several key initiatives:
• All organic-based materials, including off-quality tissue boxes, loose cardboard, off-quality lotiontreated tissue and cardboard cores, are responsibly managed offsite through composting practices
• Used fabrics and felts are offered to employees and the wider community for reuse, with any remaining material sent to Gambier Earth
Movers for landscaping purposes
• In line with its premise of environmental stewardship, the Mill actively collects used batteries onsite, which are then bulked and recycled locally
• The mill has initiated a program for collecting used plastic pails (made of HDPE) for the Eucalyptus element of key products, as well as damaged plastic pallets for its supply chain. These materials are transported to Sustainable Plastic Solutions in Hamilton, where they undergo cleaning and processing into chips for recycling
• Having reached 98% of waste reduction last year, KCA recently partnered with Waste ResourceCo, which is now repurposing the final 2% of waste into energy for its site in Adelaide.
Looking forward to the future, KCA has ambitious targets to drive efficiencies and reduce emissions further. Its state-of-the-art electricity cogeneration facility at Millicent Mill plays a critical role in energy efficiency, capable of generating 95% of electricity on-site. The company is also exploring the opportunity to use green hydrogen as an alternative energy source.
kimberley-clark.com/en-au
BioPak launches home-compostable cup packaging
We know keep cups are better for the environment than takeaway cups, but Covid put a stop to them in the name of hygiene and society hasn’t quite gotten back into the swing of things.
But BioPack is making disposable cups better for the environment with an Australian first of home-compostable cups.
The global sustainable packaging enterprise is the first to market with its PHA lined cups, made entirely from bio-based renewable resources. PHA (short for polyhydroxyalkanoate) is an innovative material that is a biopolymer, meaning it’s produced from living organisms. It is made via a fermentation process, using renewable resources, like
plant sugars and vegetable oils — similar to brewing beer.
The compostable cups are made entirely from bio-based renewable resources, such as FSCTM responsibly sourced paper and PHA lining, meaning the cup doesn’t contain any fossil-based materials.
BioPak CEO Gary Smith believes this innovation will transform the future of compostable packaging solutions.
“We are incredibly proud and excited to be the first to bring this ground-breaking product to Australia,” said Smith.
“PHA has been a long time in the making, with our dedicated team working tirelessly to bring this product to market. As a B Corp, we are always striving to do better and be at the forefront of innovation and R&D, and today marks a historic moment for our industry as we take one step closer to circularity and reducing our impact on the planet.”
A notable factor of the innovation
is that the PHA resin is certified marine biodegradable, it will break down significantly faster (it needs to biodegrade in marine settings in less than 180 days) than conventional plastic if it ends up in the ocean.
“This is a breakthrough in bioplastics. However, our products are not designed to be disposed of in the marine environment, so we won’t be advertising it on the cup. Its ability to biodegrade quickly is not a license to litter, but an opportunity to have an end of life solution for people with access to a home compost” Smith said.
Expected to launch later this year, PHA will be certified home compostable to Australian and European Standards (AS5810 and NFT51-800), with BioPak PHA lined BioCups available in 8oz, 12oz and 16oz single wall cups. More Information
Australasia’s first hydrogen refuelling network
Green hydrogen company Hiringa Energy has created a zero-emission green hydrogen refuelling network in New Zealand. Hiringa says it’s the first network of its kind in Australasia and will act as a blueprint for further projects in Australia.
The Hiringa Refuelling New Zealand network will power largescale decarbonisation efforts for the heavy transport sector and propel New Zealand towards its goal of netzero carbon emissions by 2050. This paves the way for similar infrastructure to be developed in Australia.
The New Zealand launch will showcase how a network of strategically placed stations can unlock freight routes, how design and partnerships can be leveraged and highlight learnings to transfer economy of scale and cost reduction.
Hiringa CEO Andrew Clennett this is a step towards enabling heavy transport to begin its transition to zero-emission alternatives. The refuelling stations are powered by renewable energy and enable hydrogen-powered heavy transport vehicles to refuel with green hydrogen in 10-20 minutes.
“Heavy transport plays a vital role in our economy, but it’s also a significant contributor to our national emissions,” Clennett said.
“As a first-of-its-kind across Australasia, and one of the first networks set up globally to service heavy transport, the initiative addresses this major challenge by providing operators with the infrastructure they need to switch to zero-emission transport in an
efficient, scalable and commercially viable manner.”
Hiringa currently operates in Australia, its Good Earth Green Hydrogen and Ammonia project is a joint venture with Sundown Pastoral Co. The project will see the implementation of an integrated solar energy to hydrogen and ammonia operation aiming to establish a sustainable agricultural system.
Hiringa Executive Director Cathy Clennett believes the next step to grow Australia’s budding green hydrogen industry is a nationwide hydrogen refuelling network.
“Regional Australia relies heavily on a functional and affordable freight sector. Almost 80% of non-bulk domestic freight in Australia is carried by trucks. Application of low-carbon hydrogen within hard-to-abate industries will bring about a greater balance of economic, environmental and social benefits to all Australians given the significant contribution of these sectors to Australia’s emissions footprint,” she said.
Noshok measurement solutions
For over half a century Noshok has been an industry pioneer, providing innovative solutions, customer support, great value and a broad offering of product lines.
Noshok was established in 1967, it was one of the first companies to offer a liquid filled pressure gauge. This leading-edge feature caught on as the industry recognized the extended service life and enhanced performance they offered.
Since then, Noshok has built on that foundation. As an industry leader, it delivers measurement solutions to a wide variety of industries including oil and gas, fluid power, general industrial, automation, chemical processing, manufacturing, water and wastewater, food and beverage and many more.
Noshok continues to expand its product offering, industry-leading warranties and forward-thinking customer support tools. Its website features a live chat function and the e-catalog allows users to drill down to an individual part number for specific product data and specifications.
Pressure gauges, pressure transducers and transmitters
Noshok offers a broad range of pressure gauges, pressure transducers and transmitters that are engineered with state-of the art technology to provide accuracy, reliability and accommodate nearly every application.
Level transducers and transmitters
Noshok industrial submersible level transmitters are designed to withstand harsh applications. Its offering includes a small diameter (0.97”) submersible level transmitter designed for hydrostatic level measurement for use in applications including boreholes and wells with small diameters. This sensor provides low power output signals for battery-powered applications, and an optional temperature output available.
Cage-protected level transmitters are also available, these are ideal for harsh environments including sludge, slurries, tank monitoring, water and wastewater.
Load control magnet
Worker safety is a priority during steel lifting operations, which is where the load control magnet from Serpent & Dove—Applied Magnetics in Australia, comes into play. It enables the user to control and guide a suspended steel load from a safe distance.
Whether a steel load is being lifted with a magnet or by other means, it is important to keep spin and swing
Temperature
Noshok’s Temperature Measurement Solutions include bimetal thermometers, vapor actuated remote thermometers, digital temperature indicators, probe type RTDs, RTD transmitters, temperature transmitters and switches and thermowells.
It also offers a variety of options and accessories such as stem types, connections, special dials and lenses, certified calibration and RTD terminal blocks.
Noshok has re-engineered and expanded its Bimetal Thermometer offering, with cost reductions of up to 28% and significantly improved delivery times of five-seven days. These thermometers feature a 360° groove around the stem to provide a visual reference to show the minimum immersion point and anti-parallax dial on all 3” and 5” dial sizes makes it
easier to read from multiple angles. Its electronic temperature measuring instruments are ideal for pharmaceutical, food preparation, utilities and municipal, refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants, paper mills and hydraulic applications, and include hazardous environment approved RTDs.
AMS Instrumentation & Calibration ams-ic.com.au
under safe control, the load control magnet is the simplest way to do that while ensuring operator safety. The switchable load control magnet is supplied with a flexible shackle for attachment to a telescopic handle, which is supplied with the LCM. Serpent & Dove
How to protect industrial electrical connectivity equipment from oil damage
By LAPP Australia Managing Director, Simon Pullinger
The usage of industrial oils in modern manufacturing and commercial applications is increasing at a fast pace, but with it comes the risk of oil-related damage to connectivity equipment.
The resulting impact to throughput, uptime and repair or replacement costs can have substantial impact to business results if important electrical design and selection considerations are not factored in.
Regardless of the type of industrial oil or its intended application, there is always a risk of it coming into physical contact with electrical infrastructure such as wire, cable, cable glands, connectors, tubing and sleeving or other wire/cable management equipment.
Oil resistance: key considerations
Protecting electrical connectivity
equipment from the harmful effects of industrial oils mainly involves the appropriate selection of wire, cable, connectors, and cable glands during the design and procurement phase of a project.
For manufacturers looking to use machinery where connectivity equipment is in close proximity to oils, here’s what to look out for:
1. Materials selection
Engineering and procurement departments must factor in potential exposure to industrial oil before selecting their electrical connectivity products. Oil can affect different materials in different ways, but in general, higher-rated materials will have a stronger resistance to deterioration.
2. Oil resistance testing
This can help with Standards compliance and tests often have varying levels of oil exposure (duration and temperature) as well as different post-test requirements. But beware, standardised tests use standardised oils, so these tests cannot be taken as representative of all industrial oils.
3. Use oil resistant wire
Silicone wire is an excellent option because silicone rubber has a high degree of chemical inertness, and as a result has a quite high resistance to absorption of industrial oil. Additionally, many XLP insulated wires can also have higher resistance to the effects of industrial oils over standard PVC wiring.
Oil-resistant wire, cable, and connectivity solutions need to be considered in industrial settings to decrease maintenance costs and machine downtime.
4. Use oil resistant cables
The best approach to combat the impact of oil on cabling is to either utilise specially enhanced PVC formulations or to transition away from PVC to higher performing jacketing materials altogether (examples include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds and polyurethane (PUR) jackets).
5. Use oil resistant heat shrink tubing and sleeving
Heat shrink tubing can be used to provide electrical insulation, physical protection and chemical resistance for electrical wires, joints/terminations, and splices as well as for bundling loose wires.
6. Use oil resistant cable glands and connectors
Connectors and cable glands are considered oil-resistant if the materials used in the plastics of the products cannot react chemically with oils (examples include oil-resistant plastics and
polyamide constructions).
A system is only as strong as its weakest component and success begins with awareness that oil resistant performance must be designed in from day one.
LAPP Australia – as part of the LAPP Group, a leading global manufacturer of high quality Germanmanufactured cables, connectors, and industrial connectivity solutions – has the global expertise and local knowledge to advise on the best oil resistant solutions for industrial applications.
For Information about LAPP Australia, please contact LAPP Australia Managing Director Simon Pullinger, sales@lappaustralia.com. au ; +61 447 152 982; www.lappaustralia.com.au
LAPP Australia lappaustralia.com.au
LAPP Australia Managing Director, Simon Pullinger
TME’s solution to upgrading outdated car head units
The technology in the field of electronics is aging much faster than cars. Sometimes it turns out that a completely functional, or almost a brand new car, has an outdated head unit that’s incompatible with a new smartphone. What happens next?
TME has two solutions: steering wheel control adapters for head units and inductive charger modules. They are compatible with specific car models and can upgrade a car’s cockpit with the latest technology, without compromising the comfort and aesthetics of the original interior.
ACV supplies products to upgrade 40 popular car makers, including Ford, BMW, Mercedes, Seat, Volkswagen, Volvo, Peugeot, Nissan, Fiat and many more.
Steering wheel control adapters
Nowadays, being able to control the head unit or the radio player with buttons and controls located on the steering wheel is standard. It improves safety, as it doesn’t distract the driver and enables them to adjust the car’s stereo settings while maintaining the correct hand placement and optimal sitting posture.
On the other hand, the electronic equipment installed in cars uses manufacturer-specific (often proprietary) technology, so when a car’s radio is
replaced with a universal aftermarket unit, a driver loses the ability to conveniently control the media. This happens even with high-end units. Fortunately, thanks to the progressing standardisation on the automotive market, it is no longer an issue. The connectors used to plug in universal head units include pins reserved for the CAN interface lines, the communication bus through which control signals are sent to all the components of the car.
Simplified installation
ACV adapters are not merely passive cabling, they contain electronic circuits which deliver signals to the radio in accordance with generally accepted standards. While all adapters offer the same output (ISO connectors), their inputs have been adapted to the connectors used in specific car models.
This means the product will do its job without causing problems during installation. The clear, illustrated manuals include step-by-step instructions on how to install the product in a given car model. TME tme.com/au/en
Shock proof inductive couplers
Turck’s new NIC series inductive couplers transfer data and up to 18 watts of power without contact.
Turck has significantly updated its inductive coupler sets which now offer additional functions such as selective pairing, in addition to improved performance. With a startup time of 600ms, the NIC couplers enable shorter production cycles with increased productivity.
With IO-Link COM3, the NIC couplers support the maximum data transmission rate of 230.4 kbps. The robust couplers resist high shock loads and have IP68 protection. They are completely wear-free and permanently sealed. The couplers can transfer 18 W of power across a 7 mm air gap and offer a flexible angle offset up to 15° with parallel offset up to 5 mm to ensure a high level of installation freedom. The diagnostic function detects the presence of the secondary part as well as any metal objects in the air gap.
Bidirectional communication enables actuators to be activated and sensor signals to be collected. Besides ‘dynamic pairing’, by which any primary and secondary parts can be connected, the couplers also support ‘selective pairing’, where a primary part can only communicate with selected secondary parts. For setup the device can be accessed directly via IO-Link. Typical applications of the NIC couplers include interchangeable tools, rotary tables or automated guided vehicles.
Turck turck.com.au
WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY
Industrial safety: Three ways polymer is better than steel
Steel safety barrier systems are installed in facilities across the country, however it isn’t the best material for the job. Advanced polymer engineering is a better option, allowing businesses to save money while protecting the environment.
Don’t believe it? Here are three ways polymer outperforms steel:
1. Steel can’t take a hit Once steel is impacted, it buckles and needs to be replaced. These replacements, including the repair of concrete floors, are costly and
time-consuming. They lead to operational downtime, reducing efficiency and negatively affecting workflow.
Polymer barriers disperse impact energy and recover from impacts. They can take multiple hits without being damaged or causing damage to floors and vehicles. No replacements required, no repairs and no additional recurring costs.
2. The manufacture of steel creates more CO2
Manufacturing 100m of steel barrier produces up to 33% more carbon
Workplace Health and Safety show heading to Sydney
If the Melbourne Workplace Health & Safety Show (WHSS) was anything to go by, the Sydney event on October 23-24 will be a standout.
More than 4,000 people attended the Melbourne show, taking in talks from 75 presenters and over 160 brands exhibiting their workplace safety solutions.
Sydney’s WHSS is set to be even bigger. It will be held during National Safe Work Month at its new home in the Dome at Sydney Showground, having outgrown the previous hall.
National Media Commercial
Director Stephen Blackie
said the event attracts senior decision-makers.
“The new theatre added for dedicated safety summits is set to increase C-level attendance from Australia’s biggest companies, making this our biggest Sydney show to date,” he said.
Rounding out the stellar lineup of presenters for the Sydney show is an exhibition featuring more than 200 of the leading and innovative brands showcasing the latest health, wellbeing and safety solutions.
From PPE and office hygiene products to wearable technology,
Continues next page
dioxide than manufacturing the same length of polymer barriers.
The emissions don’t stop there. From painting to replacements and maintenance, steel safety barriers generate six times more CO2 emissions over five years than polymer barriers.
3. Increasing cost
The longer steel safety solutions are installed, the more they cost.
Labour costs associated with maintaining and replacing steel barriers increase from the moment they are installed. Removing and reinstalling them as well as repairing concrete floors all impact the bottom line.
Polymer safety barriers are built to disperse impact energy and recover, meaning less maintenance and fewer replacements.
Not only does steel impact a company’s budget negatively, it could also prevent it from reaching ESG goals in the next five years. To save money while reducing carbon emissions, choose polymer.
A-Safe’s polymer barriers are not only environmentally responsible, but achieve Return on Capital Employed in just 18 months, with significantly lower maintenance costs than steel over five years.
Discover A-SAFE’s pioneering polymer solutions and learn how they can help replace existing safety infrastructure at ASAFE.com A-Safe asafe.com
Damage from impact now poses a cut hazard to staff and products. The integrity of the barrier is compromised.
The barrier may have stopped the impact, but it hasn’t recovered and is now at risk of failure.
The damage from impact now impedes the walkway. It is at risk of failure and creates a safety hazard for staff.
software systems and breathalysers, the exhibition brings together an expansive array of the latest products and services.
“No matter what your health, wellbeing or safety challenges, you’ll find the solutions and specialists in the exhibition,” Blackie said.
“The WHSS is your comprehensive workplace safety event. With two jam-packed days of speakers, seminars and panel discussions led by industry experts, as well as plenty of networking, and an exhibition that is attracting new brands daily, this is the workplace safety event not to be missed.”
The WHSS is Australia’s largest free-to-attend exhibition and conference dedicated to health and safety. It
WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY
is organised by National Media, which creates award winning events across a range of industry verticals.
Three new summit stage conferences
Attendees will be able to choose from three new summit stages, each dedicated to a pertinent topic:
• The Workplace Wellbeing Summit explores psychosocial risks and new legislation, providing practical guidelines on the implementation of wellbeing programs that enable the management of mental wellness.
• The Construction Health and Safety Summit examines the latest construction-specific safety risks, regulations, strategies and tools.
• The Safety Leadership and Culture Summit explores how leadership
and company culture contribute to enhanced safety outcomes. Experts will share hands-on strategies to create a safer workplace.
Highlighting safety innovations and best practices
Alongside the new Summit Stage programs, the Show also offers:
• The Knowledge Hub, which will explore key concerns on everything from cutting-edge safety technology to navigating psychosocial hazards, injury prevention, worker wellbeing and measurement of safety performance.
• The exhibitor-led Spotlight Stage, with a carefully curated timetable of short but highly informative sessions unpacking the latest products, services, resources and regulations,
to keep attendees up to date.
Inviting speakers and exhibitors
Early bird pricing ends soon. Secure your premium location for October 23 and 24. To book your spot, email sales@whsshow.com.au or call Blackie on +61 482 096 457.
Interested speakers are also invited to submit expressions of interest, by emailing Louise Ebbrell, lebbrell@nationalmedia.com.au
For more information and free event registration, visit whsshow. com.au/whats-on-sydney
Workplace Health & Safety Show smashes attendance record
If you were one of the attendees at Melbourne’s Workplace Health & Safety Show and thought that it was busy, you’d be right. The Show delivered record-breaking results, with 4,908 attendees over the two-day event.
National Media’s Commercial Director Stephen Blackie said it was an increased attendance of 247% compared to last year’s event.
“We were genuinely overwhelmed by the positivity of the event and the great feedback we received from suppliers and attendees from across the Work Health and Safety community,” he said.
“What is clear is that there is an appetite for an event that not only provides crucial OHS-related content, but also provides the connections and solutions to address the challenges faced by professionals in the field.”
The Show attracted C-suite professionals, national safety managers, as well as senior managers from some of the country’s largest companies, including Woolworths Group, Melbourne Water, the Department of Defence, FedEx Express, CocaCola, Virgin Australia, Ford Motor Group, Australia Post and Veolia — to name a few.
Overwhelming response from exhibitors — 73% rebooked Exhibitors reported positive sales results through the opportunity to create new connections and generate more business from existing customers.
“The quality and quantity of the attendees was overwhelming, resulting in 73% of exhibitors having already rebooked or upgraded their space for the Melbourne event in
2025 and many more securing space for the Sydney Show taking place on 23 & 24 October 2024,” Blackie said.
A continual theme was the significant return on investment from exhibitors. TEG Risk Co-Founder Hamish Baker reported that was the case for his business.
“We achieved ROI by 1pm on day one due to the high number of quality leads. The rest was icing on the cake,” Baker said.
Evotix Asia Pacific Director of Sales Luke Williams was also happy to have exhibited.
“We welcomed this opportunity to see people face-to-face, building trust and understanding peoples’ challenges. There’s no better place to do that than in an event space,” Williams said.
With 170 brands showcasing their solutions, the show also received positive feedback from visitors.
A.G. Coombs Group’s Nick Rush was pleased he chose to attend.
“We were able to meet with several potential new suppliers and will shortly start a trial of WHS software that we’re excited about. We were
able to walk around and pick up new ideas for safety innovations for our workforce,” Rush said.
Reece Group Health & Wellbeing Lead Ashley Banks believes it was a worthwhile exercise.
“I think if it’s important to you that your business is best in class and making sure you’re taking care of your people, you need to do the research, and it’s all here,” Banks said.
National Media is the new owner of the Workplace Health & Safety Show and it is excited about the future.
“As the new owners, we have started a journey to create worldclass events that showcase innovation and best practice within Australia,” Blackie said.
“The feedback we received reaffirms our decision to invest heavily in the event content and education, adding new Summits to support learning and growth within the sector. We have plans for an even bigger event in Sydney later this year, and only have 30 stands remaining. We look forward to continuing the growth trajectory of the Workplace Health & Safety Show in collaboration with the industry.”
The Workplace Health & Safety Show is Australia’s largest free-toattend exhibition and conference dedicated to health and safety. The Sydney show will be held October 23-24 at Sydney Showground, Olympic Park.
& Safety Show whsshow.com.au
Applications open for the Hunter Manufacturing Awards
This year marks the Hunter Manufacturing Awards’s (HMA) 20 year anniversary celebrating excellence in local manufacturing.
HMA Board Chari Jacqui Daley said it has been an eventful two decades.
“Twenty years ago, manufacturing in the Hunter region was characterised by a strong industrial heritage and traditional production methods. The inaugural award winners included prominent names such as Varley, Newcastle Machine Shop, M&S Fabrications, Steel River Manufacturing, Onesteel and Cowan Manufacturing,” she said.
“HMA was established to recognise and encourage excellence in this vital sector. Since its inception, the awards have seen local manufacturers embrace new technologies and innovative practices.”
Today, the Hunter region boasts a vibrant and diverse manufacturing sector, gaining momentum and
engagement. New in 2024 is the launch of the inaugural HMA Hall of Fame, recognising individuals or organisations that have significantly impacted the manufacturing industry in the region. This award will be selected by the HMA board, with nominations open to the manufacturing community.
With a special, perpetual trophy and prize for the winner, Ms Daley said the new category is unique among the 15 coveted accolades available on the Awards night.
“Every year, our judges are amazed by the diversity and quality of manufacturing businesses in our region, and the winners are always standouts in their categories,” she said.
• Manufacturer of the Year, less than 50 Employees Award, Senquip
• Apprentice of the Year, Manufacturing: Adam Potter, Molycop
• Rising Star Award (joint winners): Liam Manning, Saphi Engineering and Curtis Gibson, A.E. Gibson & Sons
• Manufacturing Leader Award: Craig de Leon, Elecbrakes
• Excellence in Sustainable Operations Award: Hi-Vis Group
• Collaboration Partnership Award: Resourceful Living and Hunter New England Health
• Excellence in Innovation Award: Saphi Engineering
“Entering the awards not only boosts your company’s reputation and increases visibility but also gives your team a morale boost by highlighting their achievements.”
recognition for its productivity and innovation. Local manufacturers are at the forefront of technological advancements, driving efficiencies and sustainability. The HMA continues to play a crucial role in showcasing these achievements and supporting manufacturers in their pursuit of excellence.
The manufacturing industry in the Hunter employs over 20,000 people and is a major driver of the local economy, contributing around $3 billion in value-add to the regional economy and 6.6% of GDP.
This year, the HMA is excited to announce a new partnership with Industry Update, which will enhance the visibility of local manufacturers on a national stage, providing a platform to showcase the innovation and excellence that the Hunter region has to offer.
The 2024 awards programme features several updates to streamline the application process and increase
“However, we’ve noticed that there are people and organisations that repeatedly appear in the applications year after year, and we feel that kind of longevity in the manufacturing industry should also be recognised.”
Thanks to HMA’s sponsors and partners, a range of incentives and prizes are being offered, including:
• A 12-month board position for the Rising Star winner
• A 12-month membership to HunterNet for the startup award winner
• Travel prizes, including international flights for the Manufacturer of the Year
Daley underscores the benefits of participating.
“Entering the awards not only boosts your company’s reputation and increases visibility but also gives your team a morale boost by highlighting their achievements. It’s a worthwhile exercise that reflects the positive progress within your organisation,” she said.
The nomination period for the 2024 awards is now open for the next 13 weeks, closing on August 21. HMA encourages all eligible companies to participate and help spread the word about the nomination period.
As HMA looks to the future, it remains committed to presenting a strong presence for manufacturing in the region to a national and international audience. The 20th year of HMA promises to be the best yet, showcasing the innovation and excellence of the Hunter’s manufacturing sector.
2023 categories and winners were:
• Manufacturer of the Year, 50 Employees or More Award: Hi-Vis Group
• Excellence in Manufacturing Capability Award: Hi-Vis Group
• Excellence in Building Workforce Capability for the Future Award: Hedweld
• Excellence in Product design: Senquip
• Outstanding Start-up Award: Janus Electric
• Excellence in Marketing: Hey Zomi
• Excellence in Export and Global Supply Chains Award: Bekaert Australia
The 20th HMA Awards will be celebrated at a Gala Dinner at The Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre on Friday, October 18 2024. Details on the event will be available soon on the HMA website.
Applications for the Awards are open until August 21, with finalists announced on September 19th. For more information on the HMA, to submit a nomination, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.hma.org.au or email info@hma.org.au
HMA
hma.org.au
HMA Chair of the Board, Jacqui Daley, opens the event
Launch event guests enjoying a guided tour of the HIVIS premises
From laft: Ivan Waterfield, Paul Scobie, Steph Loadsman, Peter McKinnon and Toby MacIntyre
Healthy living trade event hailed a success
Naturally Good, Australia’s leading natural and healthy products trade event, hosted over 200 exhibitors at the International Convention Centre, Sydney on June 3-4.
Now in its ninth year, the annual event featured categories including food, beverage, beauty, health and home. This year’s expo theme was ‘The Natural Place to Grow’.
Naturally Good Event Director Sofie Teh said the expo was a great success.
“The energy surging through the show was undeniably upbeat and vibrant, and the feedback we’ve received from exhibitors and visitors alike has been overwhelmingly positive,” she said.
“We experienced genuine excitement and full active engagement across all aspects of the show’s diverse range of offerings. From the expo floor to the Summit and Awards, this year saw the industry discovering and engaging with the freshest and hottest items set to shake up the natural, health and wellness market.”
Exhibitors included Natures Farmer Sea, which showcased its viral Irish Sea Moss Gel products and was voted People’s Choice Winner for 2024; Innerbloom NZ, sharing its functional RTD range of cold drip coffee; Euclove featuring its natural
cleaning products and Petite Skin Co displaying its simplified, tweenfriendly skincare range.
The annual Pitch Fest once again provided a platform to five promising health and wellness businesses including Eat Crumble, The Vitality Project, Heartful Flavours, Health Kultcha and Neon Goat, who had the opportunity to pitch their passion to a range of experts and trade buyers. Neon Goat emerged as the winner, with its Schvitz Stick product.
The annual Awards Gala gave top gongs to The Little Oak Company, Naked Rivals, Fine Fettle Foods, Red Seal, MilkLab, I’m Nutrients, Tulita, Lust Minerals, Cell Squared, Faith in Nature as well as industry leaders from GR8 Health and Trailblazers Oborne Health Supplies, Barry and Gillian Oborne.
This year’s speaker sessions by some of Australia’s most influential thought-leaders in retail and the natural, health and wellness space, inspired compelling industry discussions.
SWIISH founders and sisters Sally Obermeder and Maha Corbett headlined the Summit, with their keynote generously delving into the behind the scenes of their now
extremely successful company, from managing start-up finances to facing and overcoming bankruptcy. Visitors left energised, with invaluable insights and perspectives on the future of the industry.
The Beauty Stage was a new addition to the Expo. It featured a lineup of speakers handpicked by The Green Edit founder, Cathy Tolpigin. Sessions covered everything from the rise of clean beauty and growing desire for tween skincare products, purchasing power of women over 50 and men’s personal care.
The Australian Organic Alley’s Taste Experience was also new to 2024 and generated enthusiastic interest.
“Planning for the 10th edition of Naturally Good 2025 is already well underway. I’m excited to reflect on how we’ve matured over the years and remain incredibly grateful for the support of our Naturally Good community over the past decade,” Teh said.
“We’re dedicated to ensuring Naturally Good continues to be a thriving destination that evolves and accelerates with the pace and needs of the natural, health and wellness market, whilst empowering this very special industry.”
Upcoming Events
CeMAT
23-25 July 2024 | MCEC, Melbourne
The CeMAT exhibition will be a onestop-shop of the leading technology and service providers in intralogistics, robotics and automation, warehousing, supply chain management and materials handling.CeMAT will showcase innovation and best practices in a wide variety of settings and sectors – from e-commerce to manufacturing, from the food industry to resources.
cemat.com.au
Australian Waste & Recycling Expo
24- 25 July 2024 | ICC, Sydney
Discover an exciting showcase of full circle innovative products and sustainable solutions to collect, process and recycle waste more smartly. Future critical areas include Machinery & Equipment, Software & Services, Bins, Vehicles, Food & Organics and more.
awre.com.au
ROKLive Adelaide 2024
30 July - 1 August 2024 | ACEC, Adelaide
Join us on an exciting journey to explore innovative ideas, optimize production, empower workers, manage risk, drive sustainability, and accelerate digital transformation. This year, we embark on a journey blending cutting-edge technology, industry-focused expertise, and a robust partner ecosystem. Our aim is to help you overcome your company’s biggest challenges and achieve tangible results. Let’s tackle these challenges together and shape the future!
4-5 September 2024 | Sydney ShowGround, Olympic Park
The Workplace Health & Safety Show is the ultimate free two day in-person event taking place in Melbourne and Sydney in 2024, aiming to empower professionals with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to enhance workplace health and safety practices. Discover interactive, innovative and collaborative solutions, hear from experts and meet key organisations. Explore the exhibition showcasing hundreds of health and safety products and resources or attend sessions featured in the Knowledge Centre or dedicated Spotlight Sessions.
whsshow.com.au
LAND FORCES 2024
11-13 September 2024 | MCEC, Melbourne
A variety of exhibition and participation options are available and, as a centrepiece regional exhibition, the opportunities for business engagement at Land Forces will be considerable.In addition to hosting senior international military, defence, government, scientific and industry delegations from around the world, Land Forces will attract a comprehensive array of defence professionals and trade visitors at all levels. landforces.com.au
MEGATRANS
18-19 September 2024 | MCEC, Melbourne
MEGATRANS is Australia’s largest integrated exhibition and conference for the logistics industry. MEGATRANS will return to Melbourne in September 2024, connecting people to people and business to business, while showcasing solutions that will help the supply chain adapt to challenges such as global conflict, international market pressures and the rise of automation and digitisation. MEGATRANS will feature an expansive trade show, showcasing the latest in logistics and warehousing solutions.
megatrans.com.au
AMTIL 2025
6-9 May 2025 | MCEC, Melbourne
Australia’s Premier Manufacturing Solutions Event that showcases the latest innovations, technologies and equipment in the advanced manufacturing sector.
Explore new opportunities, meet and network with industry leaders and technology experts, all under ONE roof at ONE show.
amtil.com.au
On 31 August, Telstra’s 3G network will shut down for good. Optus’s will close from 1 September. TPG Telecom/Vodafone switched theirs off in January.
Do you use a 3G or older 4G device that connects to a 3G network?
To stay connected, including to 000 emergency services, you’ll need
Home safety tips for winter
From heaters and electric blankets to heat packs and hot water bottles, many of the things we use to stay warm can also become dangerous very quickly.
But keeping your household both cosy and safe this winter is easy with these tips from Product Safety Australia. You’ll also find links to product recalls and advice on keeping your home mould-free.
Get to the snow safely, easily and for less All 3G and some 4G devices will soon stop working
to upgrade to a new 4G or 5G device before your 3G network shuts down. Don’t call 000 to test your device. The 3G shutdown won’t just affect phones.
Some EFTPOS machines, medical alarms, personal emergency response devices, smart watches and tablets will need replacing too.
Staying safe online
Not all shopping websites are the real deal. Scammers are creating fake replicas of popular retailers’ websites. They hope to trick you into entering your card and account details. Not only do these sites look authentic, but their links can appear high in your web browser’s search results.
Bookmark the sites you trust instead of risking searching for them again.
Avoid snow chains, driving in poor visibility and full car parks with the Snowy Mountains Bus Service.
Starting 8 June, the service will run regularly between Jindabyne and the Perisher and Thredbo ski fields each day during the ski season, with extra services to Perisher
during school holidays and Friday to Sunday in peak periods.
There are also services to the Perisher Skitube, East Jindabyne, Tyrolean Village and Cooma. Concession, family and season passes are also available. Book ahead to secure your seat.
AMW2024 Sydney celebrated all things manufacturing
Those who attended Australian Manufacturing Week 2024 in April wouldn’t be surprised to learn it was the biggest manufacturing show to hit Sydney since its 2022 event.
Even the weather turned it on for the manufacturing industry, settling down enough to transport the machines in.
Fully owned and operated by AMTIL, AMW is Australia’s largest manufacturing solutions event, bringing more sectors of the Australian manufacturing under the same roof than any other event in the country.
There were seven distinct zones representing different areas of the manufacturing world; the original Austech Machine Tools Zone, Additive Manufacturing, Robotics & Automation, Australian Manufacturing, Manufacturing Solutions, Plastics Technology and Weld & Air Technology.
The show comprised 271 companies showcasing 500 individual
brands. Around 1,400 people downloaded the AMW Mobile App and 10,899 My Show Planner profiles were created. Feedback indicated these helped attendees navigate everything the show offered.
Head of AMTIL Events Kim Banks was thrilled with the show.
“Thank you to our sponsors and exhibitors for the AMW2024 in Sydney,” Banks said.
“The effort of staging this massive trade show would be impossible without your input and confidence. We are excited for, and well into organising, the next show in Melbourne in 2025.”
Setting up for the Sydney show included laying over 8,000 carpet tiles, installing at least 600 light fittings and employing 578 hours of security to look over $80m in manufacturing technology that was showcased. Almost 6,500 sqm of floorspace was sold in record time.
The outgoing CEO of AMTIL Shane Infanti left with a bang.
“We were humbled by the support and feedback we’ve had from attendees and exhibitors and proud of the milestones and achievements of the show,” Infanti said.
“I look forward to staying very much in touch with the industry going forward and the great many friends I’ve made along the way.”
The Show had 7732 attendees across the three days; day one was 2524, day two had 3062 and day three clocked in at 2146.
The majority of visitors were from NSW, 5782, followed by Victoria, 662 and South Australia, 144. There were 377 international visitors.
AMW2024 was held at the International Convention Centre Sydney. It was officially opened by the NSW Government Industry Executive Director Maroun El-Khoury, standing in for the
Hon. Courtney Houssos MLC, the very first Minister for Domestic Manufacturing.
NSW Premier Chris Minns delivered an inspiring welcome message.
“I want to extend my best regards to everyone attending Australian Manufacturing Week. This state is home to more than 28,000 manufacturing businesses and it employs close to 300,000 people.”
He also noted that NSW generates more than $135bn of output each year.
“If we work together, we are convinced manufacturing has got a bright future in New South Wales,” he said.
The show really was a spectacular celebration of what Australian manufacturing and all associated industries can do on shore, here in Australia. The feedback from those who took part has been humbling and heartfelt. Thank you all for coming.
We already have special plans for the biggest Melbourne show, coming up in May 2025 for AMW2025.
