Local manufacturing and jobs a major driver of bipartisan political support at Carole Park, Ipswich plant
Government and industry proponents identities lined up to hail trailer maker MaxiTrans’ new Queensland facility upon its official launch on February 5.
The Carole Park plant, purpose-built to increase the company’s Australian manufacturing capability, replaced the existing facility in Richlands and was recently toured by state and federal members.
MaxiTrans CEO Dean Jenkins says the new facility is an exciting expansion for the company, its workers and customers in industries including agriculture, mining, construction, waste management and bulk, as well as the food and grocery sector.
“Our existing facility in Richlands predominantly made bulk transport trailers,” he says.
“With the help of the Queensland government, we have a new facility that will give us more scope and flexibility to expand our Australian manufacturing capability, as well as further bolster our aftersales support here in Queensland.”
RELATED ARTICLE: MaxiTrans unveiled the Carole Park facility last November
Support to manufacturing businesses such as MaxiTrans had been extended via the state government’s Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund.
“To continue our recovery from COVID-19, we need to secure the manufacturing industries and the skills needed for the jobs of the future,” Queensland Minister for State Development Steven Miles says, who also credited the trucking industry for its role in the transport of essential products.
“I also take this opportunity – on behalf of all Queenslanders – to thank the industry for keeping supply chains going during this pandemic.
“There is no doubt logistics will continue to play a key role in supporting long-term economic recovery.
“This targeted support is part of our plan to support Queensland jobs and industry through the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The plant was also recognised by federal Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz, who says it will be a huge boost to the heavy vehicle industry and place Queensland businesses in the box seat to take advantage of the Federal Government’s Instant Asset Write Off and Temporary Expensing stimulus measures.
“It was fantastic to tour MaxiTrans impressive, new manufacturing hub with CEO Dean Jenkins and hear their story in successfully managing the recent Covid-19 pandemic,” he says.
“I congratulate Dean Jenkins and the Team at MaxiTrans on the opening of their new facility and wish them great success into the future.”
Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA) CEO Todd Hacking notes the opening was a proud day for MaxiTrans and important for the heavy vehicle manufacturing industry.
“It is a really positive indication of the confidence MaxiTrans has in the market, on the back of an uncertain and turbulent year.
“As the industry embarks on economic recovery, post-pandemic, these types of investments cannot be under-estimated.”