'Bright future' for Victorian Manufacturing

Geelong has played host to the fifth annual Victorian Manufacturing Showcase, presented by the Victorian Government in conjunction with ICN Victoria.

The showcase, hosted at the newly redeveloped GMHBA Stadium in the famed Kardinia Park precinct, provided all attendees with an invaluable opportunity to hear from some of the most innovative local companies present on their opportunities and challenges to evolve, grow and prosper in a changing landscape.

ICN Victoria Managing Director Grant Anderson was quick to point out that the venue itself exhibited some of the best in local manufacturing, from Keppel Prince’s light towers to The Barrier Group’s barriers.

In his opening speech, Victorian State Minister for Industry and Employment, Ben Carroll said manufacturing had a ‘bright future’ in Victoria. ‘We’ll continue to back local business, so they can create jobs and boost our economy,’ he said.

‘The Manufacturing Showcase brings some of our best and brightest manufacturers under one roof – and highlights the diversity of the multibillion-dollar industry.’

Speaker presentations were focused on the theme of the event – Evolve. Grow. Prosper – recognising that a competitive market brings many complexities and challenges.

The audience heard a number of encouraging stories, such as:

  • Innovation and continuous improvement in a 60-year-old business.
  • A change from meat to vegetarian products.
  • Agility in a company moving from maintenance services to manufacturing in the renewables sector.
  • A pivot from automotive to architectural glass.

This year’s revamped event also included two panel discussions:

  • Women in Manufacturing: a discussion on innovative ways to promote the industry as a career of choice for women.
  • Advanced Materials and Collaboration: an exploration of technology advancements, R&D and export opportunities.

The annual Showcase provides the chance for leading industry figures to share their experience and knowledge with smaller manufacturers.