Amphibian Aerospace Industries to open aircraft manufacturing facility in NSW International aircraft builder Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI) will open a $100 million aircraft manufacturing facility at the Central Coast Airport at Warnervale, creating thousands of jobs for the region. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cOG7tD The company will re-locate its off-shore manufacturing from the United States to the Central Coast and become the first transport category aircraft manufacturer in Australia since World War 2. Announcing the news on Tuesday, NSW Premier Mike Baird said the new facility will create 240 direct jobs in aircraft manufacturing, as well as thousands of indirect jobs in auxiliary industries like parts supply, instrumentation, interior fitouts and avionics. “This is a great day for the Central Coast – this announcement means thousands of jobs for the region with a significant flow on to the Central Coast economy,” Premier Baird said. “The decision by AAI to locate here is a testament that NSW is Australia’s prime location for business growth and investment.” AAI, which is the Type Certificate holder to the HU-16 Models A-E and G-111 Albatross Amphibian Aircraft, will move its operations to a site at Central Coast Airport under a 40 year lease. Amphibian Aircraft Group President Khoa Hoang said the new manufacturing facility will focus on upgrading the Albatross with new Turboprop Engines, state of the art Full Glass Avionics Cockpit and some additional comfort features for its customers worldwide. “We could do this from numerous countries in the world but chose Australia because there is great available aviation engineering talent, we have support from the government and it is a stable political and legal environment,” he said. “It just made good sense to us to choose the Central Coast. It’s close to Sydney and Newcastle, it’s in a great location and it offers our employees a great lifestyle.” AAI will take about 5 years to set up on the Central Coast, and will be required to submit a Development Application for the facility which is on industrial zoned land. Australian Manufacturing

Victoria’s wine industry secures $720,000 funding boost Victoria’s vine industry has been given a $720,000 funding boost to increase its market share and improve wine tourism. Picture: http://ift.tt/yftkXj (Salvatore Vuono) The funding, which was awarded under the $1 million Wine Growth Fund (WGF), will support 41 projects across the state’s 21 distinct wine regions and is provided on an equal co-contribution basis. Announcing the funding support, Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford said 38 of the recommended projects are regionally based, with grants worth more than $677,000 and total project costs valued at close to $3 million. “With the Grand Final public holiday tomorrow, there has never been a better time to experience regional Victoria, try a nice drop and support our growers,” the Minister said on Thursday. “We’re proud to be supporting 41 innovative wine industry projects. This investment will support the sustainable growth of some of Victoria’s finest wine growers and producers. Victoria’s premium wine is the envy of the nation – that’s why we’re supporting the industry through our $1 million Wine Growth Fund, to ensure the world continues to demand our products.” According to the Minister, the successful projects range in scope from developing a wine app in the Alpine Valley, hosting a large scale food and wine event in Central Victoria, website development in the Loddon-Mallee and promoting Chinese wine tourism in the Yarra Valley. The WGF supports grants of up to $20,000 for individual organisations and $50,000 for collaborative projects. It forms a key part of the Labor Government’s $1 million election commitment to boost the wine industry, which includes the Wine Industry Development Strategy and the formation of the Wine Industry Ministerial Advisory Committee. Victoria’s wine industry comprises 800 wineries and 3,000 vineyards, employing 12,000 people and generating $1.5 billion each year. Australian Manufacturing

dorsaVi awarded Future Industries Manufacturing grant to fast track development of local manufacturing facilities Melbourne based dorsaVi Limited has been awarded a A$350,000 grant under the Victorian Government’s Future Industries Manufacturing program which was established to help Victorian companies implement new manufacturing technologies and processes to facilitate growth. Image credit: dorsaVi Facebook page Commenting on the grant award, dorsaVi’s CEO Andrew Ronchi said money will be used to fund the company’s new manufacturing facilities, equipment and staff in its Jolimont premises that are required to bring the next generation of its wearable medical-grade sensors to market. “The grant will allow dorsaVi to complete the facility sooner than originally anticipated,” Mr Ronchi said. “This initiative will greatly assist the scale and speed of manufacturing of the world-leading wearables.” According to the company’s statement to the ASX, the new facility will incorporate cutting-edge technologies which will reduce manufacturing timelines, automate manual processes, improve stock control and product traceability, and reduce overall manufacturing costs. “This funding ultimately ensures that dorsaVi is able to significantly reduce the cost of goods whilst maintaining the high level of quality required for its FDA cleared medical device,” reads the statement. Australian Manufacturing

Northwestern University researchers develop new biomaterial for 3D printing bones Researchers from the Northwestern University have developed a 3D printable ink that produces a synthetic bone implant that rapidly accelerates bone regeneration and growth. Image credit: www.northwestern.edu Lead researcher Ramille N. Shah said this hyperelastic “bone” material, which can be easily customised to any desirable shape, could have a massive impact in the treatment of bone defects in children. “Adults have more options when it comes to implants,” Ms Shah said. “Paediatric patients do not. If you give them a permanent implant, you have to do more surgeries in the future as they grow. They might face years of difficulty.” The new 3D printed biomaterial is a mix of hydroxyapatite (a calcium mineral found naturally in human bone) and a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer that is used in many medical applications, including sutures. Ms Shah said the hyperelastic “bone” material has shown great promise in vivo animal models thanks to its porosity at the nano, micro and macro levels. “Porosity is huge when it comes to tissue regeneration, because you want cells and blood vessels to infiltrate the scaffold,” she added. “Our 3D structure has different levels of porosity that is advantageous for its physical and biological properties.” Hydroxyapatite is known for its ability to induce bone regeneration, but it is also notoriously tricky to work with. Clinical products that use hydroxyapatite are hard and brittle, so previous researchers were forced to create structures composed mostly of polymers, which shields the activity of the bioceramic. However, this new bone biomaterial is 90% by weight hydroxyapatite and just 10% by weight polymer. Despite its structural composition, the new bone biomaterial still maintains its elasticity because of the way its structure is designed and printed. Ms Shah said the high concentration of hydroxyapatite creates an environment that induces rapid bone regeneration. “Cells can sense the hydroxyapatite and respond to its bioactivity,” she added. “When you put stem cells on our scaffolds, they turn into bone cells and start to up-regulate their expression of bone-specific genes. This is in the absence of any other osteo-inducing substances. It’s just the interaction between the cells and the material itself.” She said that other substance can also be combined into the ink. Because the 3D printing process is performed at room temperature, the research team was able to incorporate other elements, such as antibiotics, into the ink. “We can incorporate antibiotics to reduce the possibility of infection after surgery,” Ms Shah said. “We also can combine the ink with different types of growth factors, if needed, to further enhance regeneration. It’s really a multi-functional material.” The biggest advantage that the new bone biomaterial has to offer is that it will allow the end product to be customised to the patient. Using Ms Shah’s synthetic material, physicians will now be able to scan the patient’s body and 3D print a personalised product. Additionally, the biomaterial also can be easily trimmed and cut to size and shape during a procedure. “The turnaround time for an implant that’s specialized for a customer could be within 24 hours,” she said. “That could change the world of craniofacial and orthopaedic surgery, and, I hope, will improve patient outcomes.” Australian Manufacturing

Carnegie Wave Energy to design and build the world’s first renewable energy island ‘microgrid’ Australian wave energy technology developer Carnegie Wave Energy is set to design and build the first renewable energy island ‘microgrid’ in the world. Image credit: Carnegie The Garden Island Microgrid Project will produce both power and desalinated water. The microgrid will be designed in such a way that it will be able to operate either independently or in conjunction with the Western Australian electricity network, seamlessly switching between the two through a control system. The $7.5 million project will involve the construction and integration of 2 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic solar capacity and a 2MW/0.5MWh battery storage system, coupled with Carnegie’s own unique and innovative CETO6 off-shore wave energy generation technology. Carnegie’s CETO6 technology converts ocean wave energy into zero-emission electricity and directly desalinated water. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has awarded $2.5 million to the Perth company to support the development. “It will be the first time wave energy will be integrated into a microgrid, and if successful this diverse technology system could set a great new exportable opportunity for Australia to island nations around the globe,” said ARENA CEO Ivor Frischknecht. “With limited land available, wave energy generation supported by a reliable microgrid of battery storage and solar PV could be a better, cheaper and more sustainable way to power remote coastal or island communities long-term, displacing their reliance on diesel fuel.” The Garden Island Microgrid Project is expected to be fully operational by mid-2017. “The Garden Island Microgrid Project will be the first time anywhere in the world that wave energy will be combined with solar and batteries in a microgrid configuration. The demonstration of this microgrid project will help drive the commercialisation of CETO and will be a model we will roll out to island nations around the world. We look forward to completing the outstanding elements of the Project including final approvals, construction award and power offtake in order to commence the Project, as soon as possible,” said Carnegie’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Ottaviano. Australian Manufacturing

MMG Limited sells Avebury nickel mine to Dundas Mining MMG Limited has agreed to sell its mothballed Avebury nickel mine to the privately owned exploration and mining development company Dundas Mining for A$25 million, subject to a number of conditions precedent including MMG Board approval. Image credit: www.mmg.com According to MMG, the Tasmania based miner will pay A$1.5 million on signing the agreement and further A$23.5 million on completion. In 2014, MMG struck a A$40 million sale agreement with QCG Resources (QCG), but the deal fell through. MMG is hopeful that this time the agreement will stick, with the company’s General Manager Rick Watsford labelling Dundas’ offer as representing “the best outcome for both MMG and the Avebury asset”. “Dundas Mining is committed to a restart of the mine and MMG is confident that the sale will reinvigorate the Zeehan area, by providing new jobs and economic benefit to the region,” Mr Watsford said. The announcement was also welcomed by Minister for Resources Guy Barnett, who described the transaction as a sign of growing confidence in Tasmania’s resource sector. “The Hodgman Liberal Government is the strongest and most consistent supporter of the mining industry, and we are committed to helping to seize new opportunities to create jobs – our number one priority,” the Minister said. “While the agreement announced by MMG today is a major step forward, we know there is a long way to go before the Avebury mine can resume operations. I commend MMG for its investment in keeping the mine on care and maintenance while working to attract a new buyer.” The Avebury mine, which is capable of producing around 7 000 t/y of nickel concentrate, has been on care and maintenance since 2009. Australian Manufacturing

dorsaVi Limited to establish new manufacturing facility in Melbourne After receiving a $350,000 grant from the Andrews Labor Government, wearable medical device company dorsaVi Limited will establish a new manufacturing facility in East Melbourne. Image credit: dorsavi.com The company will also purchase and install new equipment, create new jobs, transition existing staff and increase its exports by over $2 million. dorsaVi makes wearable sensors, software and sophisticated algorithms that objectively measure movement and muscle activation at 200 frames per second. The funding was provided as part of the Labor Government’s Future Industries Manufacturing Program. “The Andrews Labor Government is supporting businesses – both large and small – to invest in new technologies and processes that will transition Victoria towards an advanced manufacturing economy,” said Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan. “Our Future Industries Manufacturing Program is giving local businesses like dorsaVi the support they need to create new jobs and grow the economy,” added Parliamentary Secretary for Medical Research Frank McGuire. Australian Manufacturing

Ecoult commercialises CSIRO developed UltraBattery In its system called UltraFlex, Sydney-based company Ecoult has been commercialising a new lead acid battery that was developed by a consortium with the CSIRO. UltraBattery technology Image credit: Ecoult (http://ift.tt/2dsj1qV) The UltraBattery is a hybrid, long-life lead-acid energy storage device containing both an ultracapacitor and a lead-acid battery in a common electrolyte. The Australian invention was built by Furukawa Battery Company in Japan and tested in the United Kingdom through American based Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium. Now, Ecoult, which has powered its products with the UltraBattery, has been selected by German specialist in renewable systems and power converter manufacturer, Freqcon, to provide battery storage for its Tallaght Smart Grid Testbed, which is operated by MEGA, the Irish Micro Electricity Generation Association. “The market for grid-tied energy storage systems is growing, and fast frequency response is a valuable system service to the grid. Ecoult`s hybrid lead-acid UltraBattery is a very promising technology in this space and we are excited to partner with Ecoult and deploy the first unit in Europe,“ said Norbert Hennchen, CEO of Freqcon. Ecoult pioneered its hybrid lead-acid UltraBattery as a leading technology for fast-cycling, high-rate, partial state of charge functions in the US. “The UltraBattery is a hybrid technology,” Ecoult CEO John Wood explained. “It contains both battery chemistry and ultracapacitor technology built into each cell. This Australian invention has the safety, sustainability and dependability of lead-acid, and has been shown to outperform other battery chemistries in similar applications. Since the technology is built on a proven and safe lead-acid platform, UltraBattery cells are recyclable and we’re delighted that Freqcon has chosen to partner with our technology and storage system.” Australian Manufacturing

Apple commits to 100% to run off 100% renewable energy, joins RE100 global renewable energy initiative Apple has joined the global renewable energy initiative RE100 – a collaborative, global initiative of influential businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity, working to massively increase demand for – and delivery of – renewable energy. “Apple’s dedication to clean and renewable energy extends to suppliers around the world.”Image credit: Apple The company has reaffirmed its commitment of reaching 100% renewable energy worldwide and has pledged to collaborate with the initiative to drive clean energy into the manufacturing supply chain. “Apple is committed to running on 100 percent renewable energy, and we’re happy to stand beside other companies that are working toward the same effort,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president for Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, during remarks at Climate Week in New York City. “We’re excited to share the industry-leading work we’ve been doing to drive renewable energy into the manufacturing supply chain, and look forward to partnering with RE100 to advocate for clean-energy policies around the world.” Apple said that it currently runs its operations with 93 percent renewable energy, including 100 percent of operations in the US, China and 21 other countries. According to the company’s official announcement, Catcher Technology, one of its largest aluminium enclosure suppliers, is also targeting 100 percent renewable power for its production of Apple goods by the end of 2018, leading to an emission reduction of nearly 600,000 metric tons a year. RE100 was launched at Climate Week NYC 2014. General Motors, Bank of America, Amalgamated Bank, Wells Fargo & Co., Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), VF Corporation, VMware Inc., Rackspace Inc., Diageo and DNB are just some of the big names that have joined the initiative more recently. Australian Manufacturing

Capilano has produced the world’s first clinically-tested prebiotic honey Australia’s largest honey company Capilano has produced the world’s first clinically-tested prebiotic honey. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cARx5y Beeotic is 100% natural prebiotic honey that provides a natural source of prebiotics – natural, non-digestible fibres that pass undigested through the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract and stimulate the growth or activity of advantageous bacteria that colonise the large bowel by acting as substrate for them. Beeotic will be sold in Australian supermarkets and pharmacies, with the company also targeting the Chinese market. The product was launched in Richlands by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk who stated that she was delighted to see a local company competing on the world stage. “Capilano’s timing in targeting the Asian market is perfect, this economy is growing at a phenomenal rate and by the year 2030, it’s predicted Asia will account for two-thirds of the world’s middle class,” the Premier said. “Chinese consumers love natural products and already embrace the health benefits of honey, so Beeotic has great potential to be a great boost for Queensland exports. Capilano’s work in R & D to develop a prebiotic honey is exactly the kind of innovation and value-adding that we are fostering through Advance Queensland.” Advance Queensland is a $405 million whole-of-government innovation agenda that is supporting businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers to commercialise their ideas. “Queensland has long been at the forefront of new thinking and ideas. Advance Queensland is about providing the right economic environment and support to help Queenslanders in all industries take their great ideas and turn them into commercial outcomes with global market potential – something Capilano is doing with their Beeotic product,” said Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy Leeanne Enoch. According to Capilano, Beeotic is shelf stable and free of additives, preservatives, artificial colours and flavours, refined sugars and gluten. Capilano’s Beeotic can be found in the honey section at leading supermarkets and select pharmacies. Australian Manufacturing

adidas unveils first shoe made almost entirely by robots at its Speedfactory facility adidas has unveiled the adidas Futurecraft M.F.G. (Made for Germany) shoe – the first product created at its industry-changing SPEEDFACTORY facility in Ansbach, Germany. Image credit: adidas (http://ift.tt/2cARvuk) The Futurecraft M.F.G. shoe features innovative technology and has been designed to provide the ultimate fit. This is the first high performance footwear to come out of the adidas SPEEDFACTORY and will be part of adidas Running. Adidas’ first SPEEDFACTORY in Germany will allow the company to manufacture products in increasingly high volumes with advanced complexity in colour, materials and sizes. Last month, the company announced that it plans to open a new, state of the art footwear production site in Atlanta next year that will create around 160 new jobs. “The launch of the adidas Futurecraft M.F.G. is a defining moment for the industry. With SPEEDFACTORY, we have an industry-changing innovation that can be placed anywhere in the world – taking the lab to the street. It gives us the opportunity to combine unique manufacturing speed with the flexibility to rethink conventional processes. The starting point on this journey is the adidas Futurecraft M.F.G. and our ambition is we will give consumers what they want, when they want it,” said James Carnes, Vice President of Strategy Creation at adidas. “From a design perspective, SPEEDFACTORY presents us with the opportunity to explore new ways of creating the perfect shoe. The facility allows us to use data and analytics to shape the future of performance product – we can create a shoe using real-life insight, which can then provide real benefits to the athlete. The adidas Futurecraft M.F.G. is the start of an exciting journey,” added Ben Herath, Vice President of Design at adidas. Australian Manufacturing

Aussie Oventus to launch its 3D printed titanium mandibular (jaw) advancement device in the US (VIDEO) Australian medical device company, Oventus Medical Ltd. has announced that it will launch its first product in the USA after being granted clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the O2Vent™ T device, an oral appliance intended to reduce or alleviate snoring, mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and sever sleep apnoea. Image credit: http://oventus.com.au/ The 3D printed titanium mandibular (jaw) advancement device has an airway that directs air to the back of the throat and bypasses nasal, soft palate obstructions and tongue obstructions, thus aiding the treatment of snoring and OSA. The O2Vent™ T was created by Brisbane dentist Dr Chris Hart, who founded Oventus and is the company’s Clinical Director. “The O2Vent™ T is the Company’s first product to be launched into the USA. Its FDA clearance is consequently an important milestone for us as we strive to bring our innovative product portfolio to the global market to benefit those that suffer from OSA or snore excessively,” said Oventus Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Neil Anderson, in a media release. “The recent clinical data strongly supports its superior performance and clearly demonstrates its effectiveness in treating a range of sleep disorders. It also improves oxygen levels for patients. It means a greater number of patients who are CPAP intolerant or mild to moderate sufferers of sleep apnoea now have an alternative treatment option available,” Dr Hart added. Check out the video below to see how this 3D printed device works. Australian Manufacturing

New investment a boost for WA’s forestry industry The Liberal National Government has announced a $21 million investment to expand softwood plantations in Western Australia. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cFRKmn The WA softwood plantation sector is pivotal to the $1.06 billion per year forest products industry, which directly employs over 5000 people. WA’s softwood industry supplies up to 70% of the State’s construction roofing timber. According to the official announcement, the new strategy is focused on six key areas, “with actions including a renewed focus on attaining higher levels of certification, development of new training and employment pathways, improving community engagement and increasing efforts to protect plantations from fire.” The Softwood Industry Strategy was officially launched by Forestry Minister Mia Davies last week. “The strategy will double the annual investment in planting on State Government and private land around manufacturing and processing hubs in regional WA, which will strengthen industry development and improve productivity,” said Minister Davies. “Up to 10,000 hectares of softwood will be planted by the Forest Products Commission to expand our softwood estate over the next five years, the equivalent of two trees for every one harvested, or 2.7 million pine seedlings annually.” The Minister added that the strategy will also establish a $100,000 innovation fund to stimulate market opportunities. Australian Manufacturing

SAI Global accepts 1bn takeover offer from Hong Kong’s Baring Australian risk compliance services company SAI Global has accepted a $1 billion takeover from Hong Kong-based Baring Asia Private Equity. Image credit: SAI Global Facebook page SAI directors have unanimously backed Baring’s A$4.75 per share all-cash offer, which is a 32.3 per cent premium to SAI’s closing price of $3.59 on September 23. “Baring Asia’s proposal is compelling and represents a significant premium to SAI’s share price,” said SAI’s Chairman, Andrew Dutton. “The 100% cash consideration provides SAI shareholders with certainty of value and the opportunity to realise their investment in full for cash. We expect that, if implemented, the Scheme will have a limited impact on SAI’s continuing operations and represents an exciting opportunity for the organisation.” Jean Eric Salata, Founding Partner and CEO of Baring Private Equity Asia, said the company was looking forward to partnering with SAI’s management team to grow the company into a recognised leader in risk management solutions. “Already the established leader in Australia, we see a great opportunity to leverage our footprint and expertise within the industry to further enhance SAI’s client portfolio and expand its market presence globally,” Mr Salata added. The Scheme remains subject to certain terms and conditions, including SAI shareholder approval and court approval. Australian Manufacturing

Former LNP Minister Ian Macfarlane joins Queensland Resources Council The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) has welcomed the appointment of Ian Macfarlane as the Chief Executive of the Queensland Resources Council, effective mid-November. Image credit: MCA Facebook page “Ian combines a prodigious knowledge of the resources sector, keen policy instincts and great advocacy skills. He has the respect of the resources sector as well as all sides of the political spectrum,” the Minerals Council of Australia said in a press release. “Ian’s record in the Resources and Energy portfolio (in both government and opposition) was a remarkable one, built on a singular focus on the goal of delivering better living standards for all Australians. He will be a great asset to the resources sector, not only in Queensland but nationally as well.” Australian Manufacturing

New research that shows consumers want “Australian Made” gets a thumbs up from Australian Made Campaign The latest research from Colmar Brunton, an international market research agency, has revealed that “Australian made” has made a jump to the third most looked for statement on product labels. Image credit: http://ift.tt/1eX4FcM The Australian Made Campaign has welcomed these results, with AMCL Chief Executive, Ian Harrison stating that the report’s findings prove that Australian consumers want to buy genuine Aussie produce. “The finding that an ‘Australian made’ claim ranks second behind price factors in the information shoppers are looking for clearly establishes that shoppers want to know where their food is coming from and where their products are made. Primarily they want to buy Australian made and Australian grown,” Mr Harrison said in a media release. “The Australian Made, Australian Grown logo provides that immediate connection and gives Australian consumers confidence and trust that what they are buying is in fact from Australia.” With the recent changes to country of origin food labelling in Australia, the Australian Made, Australian Grown kangaroo logo is featured on food products along with a bar chart and statement showing what proportion of ingredients come from Australia. “Shoppers buying local products and produce will continue to enjoy great quality while giving opportunities to Australian manufacturers and farmers,” Mr Harrison said. Australian Manufacturing

Smart fabrics are becoming reality thanks to 3D printing Smart functional fabrics without limitations resulting from motion, folding and wearing are becoming reality thanks to Nano Dimension’s unique AgCite™ Silver Nanoparticle conductive ink and the DragonFly 2020 3D Printer platform. Image credit: Nano Dimension website (http://ift.tt/2cNS3ta) Nano Dimension is a leader in the field of 3D Printed Electronics; the company’s most recent test for 3D printing of conductive traces onto a treated fabric was a great success and has proven that its technology can successfully print conductors on a fabric. The test was conducted in collaboration with a leading European functional textiles company. Image credit: Nano Dimension website (http://ift.tt/2cNS3ta) “Based on the requirements of the European company, Nano Dimension adjusted the printing process in order to print electronics and sensors as an integral part of the fabric,” the company said in a media release. “During the test, conductors were printed in several patterns in order to perform functionality tests, including conductivity, elasticity, rubbing, etc. The results demonstrated that the printed silver conductors had high enough elasticity to match the properties of the fabric.” Smart textiles are predicted to have useful applications in a myriad of industries. Possible uses of smart functional fabrics include smart bandages, virtual reality gloves, wearables with sensor and heat properties, safety equipment for the defence industry, unique sportswear that manages body temperature, medical equipment, automotive, aviation and aerospace accessories, and more. The smart textile market is expected to reach $4.72 billion by 2020. Australian Manufacturing

FH Management wins state government grant to revamp manufacturing facility Tasmania’s Minister for Resources Guy Barnett announced the recipients of grant funding under the latest round of the Regional Revival Fund. Image credit: freedigitalphotos.net User: renjith krishnan Mr Barnet said eight new projects will share $5 million in funding to deliver a total of $16.8 million in direct investment through the Fund’s partnership model which requires joint funding from project proponents or other partners. “The Hodgman Liberal Government is delivering funding for eight new projects which will help revitalise regional economies and create jobs,” Mr Barnett said, adding that the projects will create around 95 direct jobs during the investment phase as well as an estimated 170 ongoing positions. Westbury’s FH Management is one of the eight successful recipients of the funding which the company will use to fund a $628,000 expansion and enhancement of their existing manufacturing facility which produces environmentally sustainable insulated panels for floor and roof construction. “The panels are an innovative and unique building product utilising Tasmanian planation timber resources,” The Minister pointed out. “The project will enable FH Management to meet current and expected building industry demand for what is a home grown product, creating eight jobs during construction and nine ongoing permanent jobs.” The Regional Revival Fund was established to unlock the development potential of major private sector projects that are currently sitting idle or have been shelved due to cost constraints. The Fund requires recipients to commence development within 12 months of finalising the necessary contractual arrangements. “The latest Regional Revival Fund projects build on our previous commitment to supporting regional economies with a total of $2.8 million going to construction of the Southern Waste Solutions C-cell controlled waste facility in Copping and the upgrade of JBS Australia‘s Devonport Abattoir,” Mr Barnett said. “We know more needs to be done to create jobs and drive growth and opportunities for Tasmanians and that is what the Regional Revival Fund is all about.” Australian Manufacturing

AIMS and Boeing Australia pool resources to protect the Great Barrier Reef The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Boeing Australia have inked a five year partnership agreement to develop technologically innovative and commercially attractive solutions for collecting environmental data on the Great Barrier Reef. Image credit: www.aims.gov.au The joint effort will see AIMS and Boeing Australia combine the capabilities of satellites, unmanned airborne systems, and autonomous surface and underwater vehicles to create sophisticated systems that will assist in the collection of marine data in a way that is safe, quick, and affordable. Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Greg Hunt, said the development of technologies that will track and assess changes in the Great Barrier Reef was paramount to protecting the health of the Reef. “The recent bleaching event highlighted both the importance of ongoing monitoring and the challenges involved in doing so – with the Great Barrier Reef as large in size as Italy,” Mr Hunt said. “Technology development is recognised as one of the critical ingredients required to enable Australia to better monitor our tropical oceans and marine environment.” He said the partnership was expected to deliver systems that will provide a big step forward in improving the quantity, quality and timeliness of environmental data. “We hope to be able to increase our understanding, and refine our solutions, to monitoring, managing and improving the health of our unique and iconic Great Barrier Reef,” Mr Hunt continued. “Australians are passionate about the Great Barrier Reef and the Turnbull Government is committed to protecting it for future generations.” AIMS CEO John Gunns said the Boeing-AIMS research will support Australia’s Reef 2050 Integrated Monitoring and Reporting Program and will be fully coordinated with the Commonwealth and Queensland governments’ efforts to monitor and protect the Great Barrier Reef. “With the Great Barrier Reef providing essential environmental, cultural and economic benefits to Australia, we need to understand how – and how quickly – the reef environment is changing,” Mr Gunn said. “Working with Boeing will provide an ideal platform from which we can paint a detailed picture of what is happening on the reef.” Australian Manufacturing

3D Systems introduces single-stage dental reconstruction technique that dramatically shortens recovery period (VIDEO) 3D Systems has expanded its Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) Reconstruction product line with the launch of Jaw in a Day, a patient specific process enabling surgeons to perform a full jaw reconstruction in a single surgery. Image credit: www.3dsystems.com This groundbreaking capability could prove to be a game changer in the field of dental reconstruction, as it could spare patients from months of costly, painful and disruptive medical treatment. “Traditional dental rehabilitation requires multiple surgeries and persistent care over a 6-12 month period. This pattern of procedures often results in patients missing teeth, which introduces a variety of adverse aesthetic, functional, and psychological effects to the patient,” 3D Systems said in a press release. “Jaw in a Day is a single surgery jaw and dental reconstruction enabled via 3D Systems’ VSP Reconstruction service. Surgeons work with 3D Systems engineers who utilise state-of the-art digital CAD/CAM technology to create a personalised surgical plan and design patient-specific surgical guides, models and instruments.” According to the company, these devices are then 3D printed and sterilised for reference and use during the unique procedure. “Immediate placement of a provisional dental prosthesis eliminates the need for multiple surgeries, resulting in a complete dental reconstruction months before traditional treatment options,” read the press release. In addition to offering a lower cost treatment with quicker recovery period, the Jaw in a Day procedure also reduces the chance of infection and complications that are more likely to occur with the multiple surgeries of traditional treatment plans. “This single-stage reconstruction technique has streamlined the treatment of my patients. It avoids multiple procedures, shaving months off the time required for full dental rehabilitation,” said David L. Hirsch, DDS, MD, Director of Oral Oncology & Reconstruction, Lenox Hill Hospital/Northwell Health, and Co-Developer of Jaw in a Day. Australian Manufacturing

Fonterra posts strong increase in profit despite ongoing milk price crisis Fonterra has announced a 65% increase in net profit after tax to $834 million for the financial year ended 31 July 2016 despite ongoing challenges in global dairy markets. Image credit: fonterra.comfonterr Chairman John Wilson described the 2015/16 season as “incredibly difficult for farmers, their families and rural communities”, with global dairy prices at unsustainable levels. “Our Co-operative has responded. We continued with the significant and necessary changes we began in the business over three years ago to support our strategy and its priorities, and worked hard to return every possible cent of value back to our farmers,” he said. “Our business strategy is serving us well. We are moving more milk into higher-returning consumer and foodservice products while securing sustainable ingredients margins over the GlobalDairyTrade benchmarks, especially through speciality ingredients and service offerings.” Mr Wilson said the co-operative has managed to increase the return on capital and to strengthen in balance sheet through increased earnings and continuing financial discipline. “We have done what we can to support our farmers with the Co-operative Support Loan, and early payment of dividends,” Mr Wilson added. “After a period of deliberate and disciplined attention to the business, we have become a stronger Co-operative operationally, financially and in our mindset with a clear sense of direction and a structure which will support real momentum in our strategy going forward” Chief Executive Theo Spierings said more volumes of milk sold at higher value formed the core of Fonterra’s strategy. “For our farmers, the promise is that we will make the most of their milk. We’re keeping that promise,” he said. “We’ve seen the real strength of our ingredients business this year. The money our farmers have invested in stainless steel is giving us more choice, and we have matched production to the highest value customer demand. In a difficult market, we increased ingredients normalised EBIT this year by 24 per cent to $1,204 million.” He said the consumer and foodservice businesses converted an additional 380 million litres of liquid milk equivalents (LME) into higher returning products, bringing its total volumes up from 4.5 billion LME to 4.9 billion. “Increasing our consumer and foodservice volumes, and especially our foodservice growth, meant we increased our normalised EBIT in this business by 42 per cent to $580 million,” Mr Spierings added. “Our results show that we continue to do what we said we would do right across the Co-op. We are single-minded about transforming our business to get the best results. We have cut our operating expenses, increased our free cash flow, reduced our working capital days, driven debt down, and reduced our capex and our gearing.” Commenting on the future outlook, Mr Wilson said” “Current global milk prices remain at unrealistically low levels, but as the signs in the market improve, we are very strongly positioned to build on a good result in the year to come,” he concluded. Australian Manufacturing

Swanson Industries buys Australia’s Waratah Engineering Swanson Industries has agreed to buy Australia’s Waratah Engineering, a New South Wales based specialist in remanufacturing longwall roof support systems and mobile equipment. Image credit: www.pr.com Swanson Industries President and CEO Steve Sangalli said the acquisition of Waratah, formally known as Kopex Australia, complemented the company’s 2014 Australian additions of Jarvie Engineering and Goninan Platers, both located in Newcastle, NSW. “We are very pleased to bring Waratah Engineering into the Swanson family. With Waratah’s suite of capital equipment and its experience in remanufacturing longwall roof support systems and mobile equipment, the partnership fulfills another step in our strategy to be a full service supplier to the Australian mining markets,” Mr Sangalli added. He said the transaction, which was officially concluded on 5 September, further strengthened Swanson’s capability to service its international customers. “The combination of industry expertise is such a natural fit that the sharing of resources, practices and knowledge is assured to improve our combined ability to provide Swanson’s international customers with a fully-capable alternative to the traditional OEM suppliers,” Mr Sangalli concluded. Swanson Industries is headquartered in Morgantown, West Virginia. The company is a leading provider of hydraulic cylinder manufacturing, remanufacturing, and repair services for the Mobile, Mining, and Industrial marketplace, operating manufacturing, plating, repair and distribution centres through Australia, Chile and the United States. Australian Manufacturing

Queensland manufacturers keen to pursue new opportunities in the sector, according Treasurer Pitt The Productivity Commission’s inquiry into Queensland’s manufacturing sector has been welcomed by manufacturers across the state, said Acting Premier and Treasurer Curtis Pitt. Image credit: http://ift.tt/yftkXj User: ponsulak Inspecting window manufacturer Breezway’s commercial workshop on Wednesday, Mr Pitt said the manufacturing inquiry will investigate existing and emerging opportunities in the sector. “The inquiry is expected to examine opportunities in high-value advanced manufacturing sectors including health, mining, transport and the environment,” he said. “It will also look at ways to build on Queensland’s traditional manufacturing base, including our agricultural and resources sectors and specifically investigate if and how the government can assist in bringing good, well-paying manufacturing jobs back to Queensland. Ai Group State Director Jemina Dunn also commended the Palaszczuk Government for its “foresight vision” in establishing the Queensland Productivity Commission inquiry. “The Government has stated its firm focus on job creation in Queensland and the decision by the Treasurer is potentially a game changer for manufacturing jobs in Queensland, further confirming that when it comes to further diversifying the economy this Government means business,” Ms Dunn said. “Ai Group has long advocated the importance of manufacturing to Queensland’s future prosperity and Queensland manufacturers have greatly valued this Government’s focus on the sector.” She said the Ai Group particularly welcomed the Treasurer’s request that the Commission focus on advanced manufacturing as well as on areas of traditional strength in manufacturing in Queensland. “In reality these two dimensions overlap with many businesses in traditional manufacturing industries clearly qualifying as ‘advanced manufacturers’, indeed at Ai Group we have the strong view that all manufacturers can become ‘advanced manufacturers’,” Ms Dunn added. Australian Manufacturing

Romar Engineering & CSIRO boost 3D printing capabilities for medical and aerospace sectors Australian toolmaking and rapid prototyping company Romar Engineering has joined forces with CSIRO to produce new advanced manufacturing products for the medical and aerospace sectors. Image credit: www.romareng.com.au The Sydney-based manufacturer and Australia’s premier research organisation have co-invested in a new $1.25 million 3D printer to conduct industry leading research in the manufacture of medical devices, tritium body implants and components for engines and machines. Assistant Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Craig Laundy, who opened the Lastertec 3D printing machine at Romar’s workshops in Sefton, NSW on Tuesday, said both the company and CSIRO stand to benefit from the latest investment in additive manufacturing capability. “By showing initiative and working with organisations like CSIRO and the government’s growth centres, Romar has adapted to market changes and now provides precision manufactured components to the medical, aerospace, aeronautical and other industries,” the Assistant Minister said. Image credit: www.csiro.au “CSIRO are committed to collaboration with business as part of their Australia’s Innovation Catalyst Strategy 2020, and to delivering scientific and engineering innovation to transition Australian manufacturing.” Australia’s manufacturing sector employs about 900,000 people and accounts for over a quarter of business expenditure on research and development. According to Mr Laundy, the long-term success of the sector lies in providing value-added products and services, both locally and globally. “The government is supporting the transition by encouraging collaboration and the commercialisation of research through initiatives such as the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre and the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre,” he concluded. Australian Manufacturing

GM to go 100% green by 2050 Global automaker General Motors (GM) has pledged to power all of its 350 operations across 59 counties with a 100% renewable energy by 2050. Image credit: www.gm.com This ambitious goal, coupled with the company’s pursuit of electrified vehicles and efficient manufacturing, forms an important part of GM’s threefold strategy to strengthen its business, improve communities and combat climate change. “Establishing a 100 percent renewable energy goal helps us better serve society by reducing environmental impact,” said GM Chairman and CEO Mary Barra. “This pursuit of renewable energy benefits our customers and communities through cleaner air while strengthening our business through lower and more stable energy costs.” GM’s vast industrial apparatus consumes huge amounts of energy to operate at peak capacity. Last year, the company required 9 terawatt hours of electricity to power its operations around the world. To lower its environmental footprint and cut energy costs, GM has invested in a number of renewable energy initiatives over the years that save it approximately $5 million each year. Amy Davidsen, North America executive director at The Climate Group, described GE’s new renewable energy commitment as a “bold and ambitious” move that was certain to catch the attention of carmakers worldwide. “GM has already saved millions of dollars by using renewable energy, and like any smart business that recognises an investment opportunity, they want to seize it fully,” she added. “We hope that through this leadership, other heavy manufacturing companies will be inspired to make the switch too.” GM has pioneered the use of renewable energy for more than 20 years, saving tens of millions of dollars in the process. The company anticipates that savings will increase as more of its renewable energy projects come online and as costs to produce clean energy continue to decrease. GM is waiting for two new wind projects to come online later this year and is also in the process of adding 30 megawatts of solar arrays at two facilities in China. It has a total of 22 facilities with solar arrays, three sites using landfill gas and four that will soon benefit from wind. Moreover, GM’s electric vehicle battery expertise places it in a unique position to meet the 100% renewable energy target by 2050. “Energy storage can ultimately address the intermittency or reliability of wind and solar energy,” the company said in a statement. “GM is now using Chevrolet Volt batteries for energy storage at its Milford Proving Ground data centre office.” GM is a member of RE100, a global collaborative initiative of businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity. Australian Manufacturing

New manufacturing inquiry to unlock untapped potential for QLD’s agri-food sector Acting Premier and Treasurer Curtis has asked the Queensland Productivity Commission to conduct an inquiry that will give Central Queensland’s agricultural sector a say on the potential for expanding the state’s food production and processing sector while creating new jobs. Image courtesy of [Marcus-] / FreeDigitalPhotos.netAccording to the Treasurer, the inquiry will also examine opportunities in high-value advanced manufacturing sectors including health, mining, transport and the environment. “As Treasurer I have announced an inquiry into the state’s manufacturing sector by the Queensland Productivity Commission. The inquiry will look at ways to build on Queensland’s traditional manufacturing base, including our agricultural sector,” Mr Pitt said. “The inquiry is expected to be completed by August next year. It will focus on opportunities to maximise advantages, address weaknesses and take advantage of emerging domestic and international opportunities, including a focus on employment and exports.” He said the move reflected the Government’s long-term policy approach for the economic development of Queensland in the years to come. “There is a lot of talk about the ‘new economy’ and I know that some workers have concerns about what that means for the so called ‘old economy’. Right now they might think the world is moving on without them. But to them I say that the Palaszczuk Government understands their concerns,” the Treasurer added. “That is why we are focussing our efforts to create new jobs on our traditional industry sectors, not just those sectors that have emerged from the digital age.” Mr Pitt said the inquiry might help identify untapped opportunities that exist in agriculture and food production, two of the state’s strongest traditional sectors. According to him, food manufacturing was one sector where new opportunities were likely to open up to meet the rising demands from the growing middle classes in Asian markets. “As a nation and as a state we are well positioned to take advantage of demands for new products,” Mr Pitt continued. “Asian customers already have a taste for our unique, clean, and safe food products including beef and other products from Central Queensland producers. The rising middle classes in Asia are looking for products that are different to ones they can obtain in their own countries but which are also reliable and affordable.” He said the inquiry might inspire bright ideas for new products or processes in food manufacturing that have not been considered yet, but which may meet with strong demand from Asian and other export markets. “The Productivity Commission’s inquiry will help identify possibilities for tapping ideas that could lead to new food-manufacturing products and industries with new jobs based on new export and domestic markets,” the Treasurer concluded. Manufacturing has contributed $20.3 billion to the Queensland economy in 2014–15 and accounted for $15.9 billion in international exports. The sector directly employed around 170,000 people in the state in the December quarter 2015. Australian Manufacturing

Rio Tinto & GE forge five-year partnership to enhance Pilbara rail operations Rio Tinto has handed global industrial leader General Electric (GE) a five-year contract to provide maintenance services and support for its vast locomotive network in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Image courtesy of http://www.riotinto.com. Photographer: Christian Sprogoe Photography The agreement will see GE apply its expertise in locomotive service to enable more rapid access to material and parts, reducing downtime and enhancing fleet reliability. Commenting on the agreement, GE’s Commercial Leader for Transportation in Asia Pacific, Dwight Van Roy, said the partnership was a “unique industry collaboration” that would bring shared best practice with the spread of enterprise risk. “Working inside Rio Tinto’s maintenance workshops in Karratha and Cape Lambert, we’ll have direct line-of-sight to daily operations, and be able to respond right away to issues and advise in areas we can optimise,” Mr Van Roy said. “As a long time manufacturer and operator of high-performance locomotives, GE is able to combine extensive product knowledge with supply chain management experience to add value to Rio Tinto’s operations.” Image credit: GE Facebook page Rio Tinto’s Rail Maintenance general manager, Jen Mackenzie, said the agreement strengthened the fruitful relationship that the two companies built over the years. “This partnership was able to happen because of the strong levels of trust that has been built between GE and Rio Tinto throughout our years of working together,” Mr Mackenzie said. “As we move into a new era for commodities, this type of business model will allow us both to focus on areas where we can deliver the most value.” Australian Manufacturing

Australia’s first commercial EV fast-charging station deployed in Queensland Energy retailer Locality Planning Energy (LPE) has announced the deployment of the first super-fast, commercial electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Australia. Image credit: tritium.com.au According to the company, it is one of five stations with fast charge capabilities to be deployed across Southeast Queensland, allowing drivers to charge EVs 25 times faster than standard chargers. The 50 KW DC fast charger, which is capable of adding 50km range to an EV battery charge in just 10 minutes, was developed and manufactured by Brisbane-based Tritium. Utilising LPE’s embedded energy networks, the charging station will also be the first commercial station in the country to provide electricity to an EV at a rate cheaper on a km-to-km basis than for a combustion engine. In addition, drivers will be able to check the charging station’s availability, reserve a charging space and monitor their car’s charging process through the use of a dedicated mobile app. LPE’s Director and CEO, Mr Damien Glanville said drivers will pay for the exact amount of electricity used to recharge their vehicles, making it just as cost effective as home charging. “The charging station marks an exciting development fir electric vehicle owners and we are thrilled to combine the power of Tritium’s cutting-edge and award winning technology with our embedded electricity network to make charging faster, easier and more cost effective than ever before,” he added. Mr Glanville said the charging station was installed at the Noosa Blue Resort in Noosa Heads, Queensland, which was the first of five sites earmarked for EV charging station deployment in Southeast Queensland. “With advanced infrastructure that makes EV charging more convenient and accessible, we hope to accelerate the adoption of EVs across Australia and enable greater flexibility for drivers,” he said. “EV trips between Noosa and Brisbane are now possible and trips to further destinations will soon be a reality.” Tritium Commercial Director, Mr Paul Sernia said facilitating an advanced charging infrastructure was key to accelerating the adoption of EVs, both domestically and overseas. “We have seen growing demand for EVs around the world and as the only Australian company to design and manufacture EV charging stations locally, we look forward to demonstrating how the technology can enable more sustainable and cost effective transport,” Mr Sernia stated. Australian Manufacturing

QUT and ‘Hear and Say’ charity team up to develop next-gen 3D printed prosthetic ears (VIDEO) The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has teamed up with Hear and Say, a Queensland charity for deaf children, to launch the FutureHear crowdfunding campaign for the development of next-generation 3D printed prosthetic ears. Image credit: QUT YouTube channel Associate Professor Mia Woodruff, from QUT’s Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, said the campaign would support world-first medical research into the development of 3D printed prosthetic ears for children with microtia, a congenital deformity where the external ear is underdeveloped. “No one in the world is researching 3D printing of life-like materials to create external ears. Crowdfunding is common nowadays for start-ups and arts projects but it is not the usual route to gaining financial support for biomedical research,” Professor Woodruff remarked. “We thought this research is new – we need funds for the next phase – let’s try a different way and ask the public to help us quickly raise money for this project that will produce tangible benefits for thousands of children. The best part is the public get to share our journey online and see a science project in action.” She said their goal was to raise $200,000 over 48 days to fund vital development of 3D printing technology for multi-material, flexible, lifelike prosthetic ears customised for each child with microtia. “Children with microtia often have one unaffected ear and we are developing a simple, non-invasive, child-friendly technology that will enable us to scan the ear with a mobile phone and produce a 3D computer model,” Ms Woodruff added. “We need funding to take the research groundwork we have already achieved to a complete product that we can produce in-house at Hear and Say.” According to Professor Woodruff, the research also aims to produce technology that would allow 3D printed ears to cost as little as a pair of glasses. “Till now, parents have had to have hand-sculpted prosthetic ears made at a high cost that are replaced every three to five years,” she noted. Dr Dimity Dornan AO, Hear and Say’s Founder and Executive Director, said the research aligned with the objectives of the FutureHear project, which was to develop a living ear with in-built hearing assistance technology. “The next step for Professor Woodruff and her team is to produce a surgically implanted 3D printed ear scaffold containing the child’s own cells that will gradually dissolve and leave only new tissue,” Dr Dornan said. “The real winners in this project is the children affected by microtia and their families who are seeking a cost effective and more accessible solution.” To make a donation, please go to: http://ift.tt/2d985Tk. Australian Manufacturing

CSIRO to invest $52m per year on six areas of innovation by 2020 CSIRO will invest $52 million per year over the next four yeas into six new areas of “breakthrough science” in an effort to become the world’s premier public research organisation over the coming decade. Image credit: www.csiro.au This ambitious goal, which was announced by Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Mr Greg Hunt, at CSIRO’s Gala Dinner in Melbourne on Tuesday, will see the organisation invest in six new Future Science Platforms (FSPs) including: probing biosystems; digiscape; synthetic biology; environomics; deep earth imaging and advanced integrated materials. “This is an ambitious goal – but it is achievable,” the Minister remarked. “I was delighted to announce that the Turnbull Government is committed to working with CSIRO to build the nation’s strength in science and provide greater opportunities for all Australians.” CSIRO Chief Executive, Dr Larry Marshall, said the six abovementioned areas of innovation had the potential to support the reinvention and creation of new industries and new jobs for Australia. “Exactly as planned in Strategy 2020, we’ve freed up resources to enable this initial $17 million investment in 2016/17 to launch the FSPs, growing to over $50 million per year by 2020,” Dr Marshall said. “We’re seriously excited about CSIRO’s next chapter and how we’re investing in Australia’s science future. The platforms fuel deeper collaboration across disciplines as we tackle things that haven’t been done before, which is exactly what we need to stay ahead of accelerating global disruption of all kinds from economic to environmental.” He said the FSPs would not only accelerate research and delivery of solutions, but would also help develop “the next crop of researchers”. “FSPs will attract a new generation of researchers to work collaboratively on genuinely challenging science and help invent Australia’s future,” Dr Marshall added. “The platforms empower CSIRO’s strategy of solving Australia’s toughest challenges, and getting science off the lab bench and into people’s hands as quickly as possible to improve Australia’s sustainability and prosperity.” Below are the six Future Science Platforms, as chosen by CSIRO researchers and staff: Environomics Unlocking genetic and other knowledge from the country’s vast species biodiversity in order to preserve and manage ecosystems under environmental change, better manage economically useful species, detect biosecurity threats and create new products based on previously unknown biological data. Synthetic Biology The design, fabrication, and construction of new biological parts, devices, systems, and machines, as well as the re-design of existing biological systems, to enable revolutionary advances in cellular factories, designer organisms and biological devices. Deep Earth Imaging The science of Deep Earth Imaging will help discover the previously undiscovered minerals, energy and water resources lying deep under the earth or sea. Digiscape Helping agricultural industries to be more productive and providing more valuable knowledge to environmental policy makers through a new generation of decision tools that use sensors, data visualisation and artificial intelligence to generate timely and relevant advice for more productive and sustainable outcomes. Probing Biosystems A revolution in healthcare and agriculture through devices and systems to obtain real-time information from living organisms about their health and well-being. Active Integrated Matter Reinventing fields as diverse as manufacturing, agriculture, emergency services, infrastructure and mining through combining advanced materials, robotics, sensing technologies, data processing and autonomous capabilities. New forms of autonomous robots will operate safely in dangerous environments while smart materials will enable new types of customised and personalised products and services. Australian Manufacturing

TOMCAR to debut new electrical all-terrain vehicle for mining industry at MINExpo 2016 Off road utility vehicles manufacturer TOMCAR will be exhibiting its range of all-terrain vehicles specialised for the mining industry at MINExpo 2016, to be held on September 26-28 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Image provided In addition to showcasing its diesel unit, the company will also debut its newly-released electrical vehicle, one of the only advanced, high-performance 100% electrical all-terrain vehicle offered worldwide. “Mining professionals are loving the fact that our electrical vehicle emits no diesel particulate matter, which the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has deemed dangerous to workers’ health,” said Ram Zarchi, CEO of TOMCAR. “Low maintenance costs, no emissions, and less noise make this an easy sell for anyone who wants to take their work environment to the next level of safety and performance.” Widely renowned for their durability and quality build, TOMCAR’s mining vehicles have been in service in underground mining for over 10 years. The unparalleled quality of these vehicles saw mining become TOMCAR’s second largest market sector (after military) over the past decade, prompting the company to develop customisable mining vehicles incorporating feedback from dozens of operators. TOMCAR’s mining vehicle features fully-welded high-grade steel frame which makes it ideal for operating under the extreme conditions of mining industries, while providing operators with unmatched safety. Designed to last decades with quick on-site repair, the TOMCAR is well equipped to withstand constant abuse with minimal maintenance and equipment downtime. “The TOMCAR has not disappointed,” said Johannes Sondergaard, K1 Mine Engineer at Potash Mine in Canada. “The TOMCAR has an incredibly low centre of gravity. This, in combination with the high ground clearance, independent suspension, and rollover protection has left me feeling safe and comfortable in all of the operating conditions that the mine has to offer. It has no trouble powering four adults through the hills and valleys of the mine. It is a pleasure to find a machine that I actually enjoy driving throughout the mine for a twelve-hour shift.” Australian Manufacturing

Queensland racing team set to become world’s first solar car supplier Australia’s premier solar racing team Clenergy TeamArrow is about to become the world’s first global supplier of commercial solar-powered cars that require road registration. The Arrow STF Image credit: Clenergy TeamArrow Facebook page The Queensland-based team has officially opened a new innovation, design & manufacturing hub at Macarthur Avenue, Eagle Farm, that will build a hi-tech sports vehicle for next year’s World Solar Challenge, with the team also planning to develop a commercial model based on the prototype. The Arrow STF is a two seater, solar electric racing car which uses the latest in solar and battery technology to create a unique vision of what is possible in the pursuit of clean, efficient motoring. According to the team, the vehicle will be approximately 2 to 3 times more aerodynamically efficient than a traditional car and will be fitted with power systems supplied by Tritium. The vehicle will feature a twin motor configuration and lightweight Lithium Ion battery pack that will enable it to travel about 300 ~400 kilometres at highway speeds and 1000+ kilometres at city driving speeds. “As part of our development program, TeamArrow plan to race the Arrow STF over 3000km in the 2017 World Solar Challenge and then make the car commercially available for drivers who would like to own a truly unique vehicle,” to company said on its official webpage. Biofuels and Water Supply Mark Bailey, who attended the official launch of the workshop, said he was excited about the possibilities that the new innovation and design hub in Brisbane could bring in the future. “The Palaszczuk Government is a strong advocate for renewable energy and a cleaner, greener energy future and I’m pleased to say that Economic Development Queensland has given the home team a flying start by providing long term access to the Eagle Farm site and workshop facilities,” the Minister added. Clenergy Team Arrow’s Cameron Tuesley said the design of the prototype, which was unveiled at the launch ceremony, was inspired from their extensive experiences crossing Australia’s outback. “We aim to be the first Australian company to manufacture and sell solar electric vehicles and we are proud to be working with energy partners such as Clenergy and Tritium to showcase Australian innovation, science and renewable energy technology to the world,” Mr Tuesley said. “What better stage to launch than the 2017 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge? Our ‘race’ version of our car of the future will also be the first road-registered solar vehicle to compete in the Challenge.” Australian Manufacturing

Stratasys 3D prints customised back brace to help Latvian wheelchair fencer overcome back issue at Rio Paralympic Games 2016 Latvian wheelchair fencer, Polina Rožkova has turned to additive manufacturing giant Stratasys to 3D print a customised back brace that will help her overcome the discomfort and limited movement during fencing in her quest for gold at the Paralympics 2016 this week. Image credit: investors.stratasys.com Having tried various traditional back braces and orthopaedic specialists leading up to Rio 2016, the athlete – which ranks 8th in the Épée Women Category A world ranking – approached Stratasys’ Latvian reseller, Baltic3D, to explore whether 3D printing could offer a solution to her problem. After making a 3D scan of her lower back, the team used Stratasys’ flexible, lightweight Nylon 12 material to 3D print the one-off back brace specifically to Rožkova’s middle spine, giving her the support required to enhance performance and compete at the highest level “The conventional back brace Polina was using when she came to us was huge and did not fit her shape at all, causing her discomfort and bruises in everyday life. It was limiting her movement in fencing and hindering her performance, which is not great when you’re preparing for the Paralympics,” explained Janis Jatnieks of Baltic3D, leader of the 3D printed back brace project. “Fortunately, we were able to help! 3D printing gives us the ability to quickly and cost-effectively produce one-off solutions customized to the individual, and having access to Stratasys Nylon material was crucial to giving her the levels of comfort and freedom of movement required to compete with the very best in her field.” The back brace was 3D printed on a Stratasys Fortus 450mc production 3D Printer in one single build, and Rožkova is delighted with the outcome and confident of achieving a positive result in Rio. “Throughout my years as a professional wheelchair fencer, I have been looking for an alternative, and most importantly, sports-appropriate lower back brace to allow me to fence and move freely without any restraints or pain,” Rožkova said. “As the sport puts a lot of strain on the back, I also needed a support that could be replaced easily if it broke during training or competition. I’m ecstatic with the result – not only is the 3D printed back brace visually appealing, but it gives me a level of freedom unparalleled to anything I have ever used before. I feel better equipped than ever to achieve my goals.” Australian Manufacturing

Design Futures to explore future design possibilities for energy, mobility, money and water This week the National Gallery of Victoria holds the first of a series of four Design Futures talks about the future of design relating to essential areas of daily life: energy, mobility, money and water. Image provided Design Futures will take place over four Wednesday evenings from 21 September to 12 October 2016 at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, with each session to include a keynote talk from the featured speaker, followed by a Q&A moderated by The Age columnist and chief editorialist Michael Short. “Design touches every aspect of our lives and affects the way we live in very fundamental ways, often guiding how we work, learn, spend and interact,” said Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV. “The NGV is pleased to bring together experts in their fields of to make us consider what might shape the future of energy, mobility, money and water.” Wednesday 21 September, 6 pm: ENERGY The journey from high-carbon centralised utilities to low-carbon distributed systems. Ms Samantha Coras, currently Head of Project Management Australia for the leading global solar energy company First Solar, will speculate on the disruptive design and innovation opportunities that might reshape the ways that energy is captured, stored and valued, as society transitions from high-carbon centralised utilities to low-carbon distributed systems. Wednesday 28 September, 6 pm: MOBILITY Radical ideas changing the way we move. Space craft designer and scramjet engineer Michael Smart will speculate on ways that international travel could be transformed in the years to come, forecasting hypersonic technology and a future of international and space travel. Mr Smart, who is a Professor at the University of Queensland School of Mechanical and Mining, spent 10 years at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia designing hypersonic engines called scramjets. Wednesday 5 October, 6 pm: MONEY Globalisation, digitisation – tech start-ups changing the future of money. The emergence of fin tech businesses and start-ups has radically disrupted financial services and changed the nature of money. Alex Scandurra, the CEO of Stone & Chalk, a not-for-profit fintech hub for financial services start-ups in Australia, will talk about the future of money and what financial services may look like in the future. Wednesday 12 October, 6 pm: WATER Water scarcity. A complex problem requiring transformative solutions. Rosalea Monacella, the co-director of the Office of Urban Transformation Research (OUTR) and Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture at RMIT University, will elaborate on the issues surrounding water resource availability and discuss how transformative solutions could address future water security issues. OUTR is a network of architects, landscape architects and urban planners that explore design as a responsive agent to contemporary urban challenges, with an intent to generate sustainable urban futures. The network’s research combines complex urban issues and advanced digital modelling techniques as an effective tool for providing effective solutions. Australian Manufacturing

Coca-Cola Amatil launches two premium rum ranges in Australia Coca-Cola Amatil’s (CCA) Rum Co of Fiji brand has launched two award-winning premium rum ranges in Australia. Image credit: flickr user: Adika Atmaja Teknikap First launched in Fiji in 2014, the super-premium Ratu and premium Bati ranges are blended from globally awarded rums, before being filtered through coconut shell charcoal and matured in specially selected oak barrels in time-honoured tradition. CCA’s Managing Director of Alcohol & Coffee, Shane Richardson, said the company was “genuinely excited” to be bringing these award-winning rums to Australia. “Rum is Australia’s fourth largest spirit category and what’s most exciting for us is that we’re seeing consumers starting to explore the different styles and flavours rum has to offer, and appreciate its versatility. That’s a great driver for growth,” Mr Richardson said. “Already very popular in Fiji, they’re beginning to attract global interest after winning a number of big awards in London and San Francisco, both in 2015 and 2016. Outside Fiji, Australia is the first country globally to launch these brands. The reaction from trade and consumers so far has been very positive and we’re looking forward to building Fiji’s credentials when it comes to producing rum of a really phenomenal quality.” Both the Ratu and Bati brands are built on an ethos of authenticity and hard work, drawing their inspiration and their identities from their Fijian heritage. The Ratu brand was named after the Ratu chiefs, who presided over the community and led the country’s fearsome warriors known as Bati. “We believe that our Rum Co of Fiji range brings a unique proposition to the Australian rum market,” said CCA’s Senior Brand Manager Blake Kramer. “Our mission is to help consumers uncover this award-winning range of rums and showcase Fiji’s heritage, craftsmanship and quality.” The Ratu range includes a five-year-old spiced rum (awarded silver medal, world’s best spiced rum 2016), a five-year-old dark rum (world’s best dark rum 2016) and an eight-year old Signature Liqueur, which was named the world’s best rum in 2015. The Bati brand is available in spiced, dark and white. “The launch strengthens Coca-Cola Amatil’s position as one of Australia’s leading premium alcoholic beverages distributors, complementing its already extensive premium spirits portfolio, thanks to a long-term partnership with Beam Suntory, the world’s third largest spirits company,” CCA said in a statement. Australian Manufacturing

Fonterra announces Wynyard plant expansion Fonterra Australia has announced a $4.3 million investment to boost cheese and whey capacity at its Wynyard plant in Tasmania. Image credit: fonterra.com Fonterra said the investment will increase the Wynyard plant’s manufacturing output by 8,000 MT per annum and help meet the growing demand for the company’s cheese and whey from its domestic and export customers. Fonterra Australia Regional Operations Manager South Steve Taylor said the Wynyard factory formed an integral part of the company’s global multi-hub strategy. “Tasmania is an important region for Fonterra and our multi-hub strategy, and we continue to invest here for the long-term. We’re a major regional employer and we’re proud of the work we do and our involvement in the local communities,” Mr Tayor added. “The more we invest for growth the more competitive our business will be, putting us in a strong position to manage global volatility, pay the best possible price to farmers and the best possible returns to our shareholders.” He said the Wynyard plant has been operating at full capacity ever since a fire destroyed the company’s cheese plant at Stanhope in December 2014. “The Wynyard expansion will see Fonterra’s total Australian cheese production increase by 50 per cent once the Stanhope plant is commissioned in mid-2017,” Mr Taylor concluded. Australian Manufacturing

Austal USA wins new A$434m US Navy contract for two EPF vessels Austal USA, the American branch of operations for Australian shipbuilder Austal, has been awarded a A$434 million contract for the design and construction of two Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) vessels for the US Navy. Image credit: www.austal.com Austal said the new contract extends its total build for the EPF program to twelve ships and grows the company’s extensive order book to over A$3.3 billion. “This new order for a further two EPF reflect the US Navy’s continued confidence and investment in a proven product. The EPF is a unique vessel that is re-defining naval sealift capability and exceeding expectations in various military and civilian operations around the world,” said Austal Chief Executive Officer David Singleton. “Two more EPF signal a commitment by the US Navy to further expand the EPF roles and reach -and represent a significant opportunity for the Austal USA workforce who have been achieving impressive production efficiencies and improved margins across the program.” Austal USA has thus far has delivered seven EPF, five of which have already been deployed by the United States Military Sealift Command (USMSC) with various US Navy fleets around the world. Three EPF are currently under construction at Austal USA’s manufacturing facility in Mobile, Alabama, including the future USNS Yuma (EPF-8) which is scheduled for launch in coming days. The EPF is a unique, 103 metre catamaran with a 35 knot performance, a large 1800 square metre cargo deck, medium-lift helicopter deck and seating for over 300 embarked troops. The ship has the unique ability to support a variety of operations, including military and civilian logistics missions, humanitarian and disaster relief missions and other maritime law enforcement activities. Australian Manufacturing

Australian Made encourages Aussie companies to promote their heritage on Family Business Day 2016 The Australian Made Campaign is urging businesses across the country to promote their heritage on Family Business Day which is held annually on 19 September. Image credit: http://ift.tt/29fs8y2 Family Business Australia is the peak body committed to contributing to Australia’s future through a dynamic and sustainable family business community. The organisation aims to provide access to specialist family, business and technical services and generate opportunities for families in business to learn and grow by networking and sharing with their peers. “Family Business Day is an opportunity for all family and non-family members of the family business, as well as stakeholders and local governments to come together and recognise this important sector,” the Australian Made Campaign said in a press release. The Campaign pointed out that more than two thirds of all Australian businesses are family businesses that make and grow the products they sell in the country, keeping local farms and manufacturing plants in business and local people in jobs. “Many of the country’s largest and most loved companies started off as a family business including Australian Made licensees Coopers Brewery, Willow, AH Beard, Ugg Australia and Akubra Hats,” reads the press release. “Family farmers and manufacturers are encouraged to use the hashtags #madebyourfamily and #grownbyourfamily to help promote their products on social media or use the special social media tiles created for the day.” Consumers can identify products made and grown locally by family businesses by looking for the FBA emblem and Australian Made, Australian Grown kangaroo logos on products in-store, or by visiting www.fambiz.org.au and http://ift.tt/1eX4FcM. Australian Manufacturing

Ai Group welcomes Queensland government’s focus on manufacturing Ai Group’s Queensland State Director, Jemina Dunn has hailed the Palaszczuk Government for showing “vision and foresight” in its referral of the state’s manufacturing industry to the Queensland Productivity Commission as announced by Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt on Friday. Image credit: aigroup.com.au Ms Dunn said the Queensland Government’s firm focus on advancing the state’s manufacturing sector was “potentially a game changer” for the industry in Queensland, which is already the third largest employer of full-time workers in the state contributing $19 billion to its economy and employing over 160,000 people. “We commend the Government for having the vision to take a broader view of the Queensland economy by recognising the importance of critical sectors such as manufacturing to the State’s future prosperity,” she said. “We particularly welcome the Treasurer’s request that the Commission focus on advanced manufacturing as well as the attention it gives to areas of traditional strength in manufacturing in Queensland. In reality these two dimensions overlap with many businesses in traditional manufacturing industries clearly qualifying as “advanced manufacturers”. Indeed at Ai Group we have the strong view that all manufacturers can become “advanced manufacturers”. She said the Government’s firm commitment to the sector had been illustrated through a number of initiatives in the recent past, including the identification of manufacturing as a priority industry in the state; the development of a future roadmap for advanced manufacturing; and the allocation of research funding under the Advance Queensland Innovation Partnerships program. “Queensland has many highly innovative manufacturing companies that are doing exceptionally well globally and there is enormous potential to lift the broader sector to operate at a similar level. If we can achieve this the benefits for the Queensland economy will be significant,” Ms Dunn added. “The potential benefits of lifting the competitiveness of Queensland manufacturing are far reaching because of the sector’s very close links both as suppliers to and customers of agriculture, mining, building and construction and the services sector and because it is a major employer in the Queensland economy.” She said the both the Ai Group and Queensland manufacturers greatly value the government’s focus on the sector which is paramount to the future prosperity of the state. “Ai Group’s membership in Queensland includes businesses from a diverse range of manufacturing industries and we look forward to drawing on this considerable experience and expertise in shaping our input into this important review,” Ms Dunn said. “To this end we will be consulting closely with members in assisting the Queensland Productivity Commission to conduct its investigation and prepare its report. Manufacturing has a fantastic future in Queensland and industry and governments need to work closely together through mechanisms such as this to leverage the sector’s full potential.” Australian Manufacturing

Beston Global Foods completes acquisition of Australian Provincial Cheese Beston Global Food Company Limited (BFC) has agreed to acquire cream cheese maker Australian Provincial Cheese (APC) for $2.2 million. Image credit: http://ift.tt/25HcWNc The acquisition includes APC’s plant and equipment, its trademarks and intellectual property, as well as all other assets required for the production of its award winning cream cheese products under the Mable’s and Grange Peak brands. BFC said it will produce the Mable’s and Grange Peak products from its Murray Bridge site, with a view to growing the distribution of these cheeses by utilising its domestic and Asian networks. BFC Chairman, Mr Robert Sexton said the acquisition was the first step in the company’s expansion strategy for the Murray Bridge site. He said the strategy envisions the development of a state-of-the art cheese processing facility for manufacturing a range of high end, premium dairy products for both the domestic and export markets. Australian Manufacturing

Downer EDI wins multiple mining services contracts worth $250m Downer EDI’s mining services businesses have secured five separate contracts with a combined value of over $250 million. Image credit: www.downergroup.com Downer Blasting Services (DBS) has recently landed three contracts for the supply, manufacture and delivery of explosives and down the hole blasting services. The first contract award was from Newmont Asia Pacific for works at its Boddington Gold mine. This three-year contract – which can be extended for an additional two years – includes the customisation and ongoing management of an onsite emulsion manufacturing facility. DBS has also been handed a three and a half year contract, plus options for an additional two, two-year extensions, by Karara Mining Limited at its Karara mine site, where DBS has been providing basting services since 2012. DBS’ third contract is a five-year extension to its existing contract with Grange Resources which will see DBS provide blasting services at Grange’s Savage River mine site until at least 2021. Downer has also won an underground mining contract at Newmarket Gold Inc’s Fosterville Gold which includes providing ground support services and related mining services. Additionally, Waanyi ReGen, a 50:50 joint venture between the Waanyi Prescribed Body Corporate (Waanyi PBC) and Downer’s ReGen business, has won a three year contract covering water and land management and erosion prevention activities at the Century mine site. Downer’s CEO Grant Fenn said these contract awards from both and existing customers underlined the company’s broad capabilities in delivering mining services. “These new and extended contracts are a clear endorsement of Downer’s broad value proposition for mining services customers which includes enhancing safety, increasing productivity and engaging the local community,” Mr Fenn concluded. Australian Manufacturing

voestalpine opens new R&D centre for 3D printing of metal parts in Düsseldorf The voestalpine Group has greatly expanded its additive manufacturing capabilities with the opening of a new research and development centre for 3D printing of metal parts in Düsseldorf. Franz Rotter (Managing Director Special Steel Division), Wolfgang Eder (voestalpine CEO)Image credit: www.voestalpine.com The Additive Manufacturing Centre in Düsseldorf will house all the Group’s research activities in this field, harnessing the manufacturing process for particularly complex and lightweight metal components for use in aviation and aerospace, the automotive industry, tool manufacturing, etc. Wolfgang Eder, Chairman of the Management Board of voestalpine AG said the company regards innovation as a strategic driver of growth, making it a key factor in the success of the Group. “As a result of the intensive research and development work undertaken in the past 15 years, voestalpine has developed from a traditional steel manufacturer to become a global leading technology and capital goods group,” Mr Eder said. “We want to consistently strengthen this position, and continue to remain at the forefront of developments in new production processes such as additive manufacturing.” The Special Steel Division of the voestalpine Group has founded its own research company at the Düsseldorf site to leverage its potential over the long term. “The new development and test centre will continue to research and develop both metal powders and the design and production of metal components using 3D printing,” said Franz Rotter, the Head of the Special Steel Division. “It therefore represents a significant expansion to our existing material production and processing value chain for the most sophisticated industries.” Additive manufacturing generally involves synthesizing components, layer by layer, and involves no material losses. Because the raw material for metal additive manufacturing is a metal powder of the required composition (e.g. special steel, tool steel, nickel-based, titanium or cobalt-chromium alloys), voestalpine is also building up its expertise in producing powder for 3D metal printing, and is investing in special powder atomization facilities at the Group subsidiaries Böhler Edelstahl GmbH & Co KG, Austria, and Uddeholms AB, Sweden. According to the Group’s press release, the material produced at its sites in Sweden and Austria will then be turned into finished components by 3D printers at the voestalpine Additive Manufacturing Centre in Düsseldorf. voestalpine said it will now shift its focus on establishing more cooperative partnerships and locations in North America and China. Australian Manufacturing

Alcoa named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the fifteenth year running Lightweight metals leader Alcoa has been named as one of the world’s leading companies for sustainability on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for the fifteenth year in a row. The new Alcoa logo for the Upstream company Alcoa was also named the Aluminum Industry Leader on the Dow Jones World Index, a recognition that it has also received in the past. “As we prepare to launch two strong companies in the second half of 2016, we will continue using our innovation, creativity, and passion to deliver net-positive benefits to the environment, communities where we operate, our employees, and our shareholders,” said Chief Sustainability Officer and Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety Kevin McKnight. Alcoa lists the following achievements as highlights of its sustainability performance in 2015: Reaching its 2020 greenhouse gas intensity target five years ahead of schedule by reducing absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 5.5 million metric tons and improving its greenhouse gas emission intensity by 31.3% from its 2005 baseline. Alcoa was one of the first companies to sign the American Business Act on Climate Pledge, committing to reduce absolute US greenhouse gas emissions by 50% versus a 2005 baseline. High-performance aluminium, titanium, and nickel-based alloy products developed by Alcoa are found from nose to tail on every high-growth commercial aircraft platform. These products are used to manufacture lighter, more fuel-efficient planes with highly efficient engines and smaller carbon footprints. Alcoa Micromill® material debuted on the 2016 Ford F-150 truck. This material is used to produce automotive parts that are twice as formable and 30% lighter than parts made from high-strength steel. Alcoa made substantial progress in improving bauxite residue storage efficiency and rehabilitation rate. The company also finalised biodiversity action plans for three locations, and minimised global mining footprint. The DJSI are the longest-running global sustainability benchmarks worldwide, measuring the performance of the world’s sustainability leaders based on a comprehensive assessment of long-term economic, environmental and social criteria that account for general as well as industry-specific sustainability trends. Australian Manufacturing

Victorian Government buys Holden’s landmark plant for reported $130m The Victorian Government has agreed to purchase Holden’s iconic manufacturing plant in Melbourne for $130 million, paving the way for plans to develop a leading design and engineering precinct. Image credit: Holden Australia Facebook page The 37.7-hectare Fishermans Bend site, which has been home of Holden for more than 80 years, will be transformed into an innovation and employment hub that will bring together industry leaders in the cutting edge areas of aerospace, defence, marine design, automotive design, and more. Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan said the site will become the centrepiece of the Fishermans Bend Employment Precinct which will support 80,000 residents and 60,000 jobs by 2050. “We will keep the spirit and ingenuity of Australian manufacturing alive and well at this iconic site with a new precinct for design, engineering and technology that will retain and create jobs for Victorians,” the Minister said. “We have a clear vision for this historic site and the future of Fishermans Bend, which builds on our strengths in defence, education and advanced manufacturing. This was a once in a generation opportunity to secure a site of this size and proximity to the CBD – we didn’t want to see it wasted.” Member for Albert Park Martin Foley said the purchase of the site, located in the heart of Fishermans Bend, means more jobs, more investment, more research and more development. “This announcement is a real game changer for the future planning of Fishermans Bend. High skilled knowledge jobs driving the jobs of the future will be central to the precinct,” Mr Foley concluded. The motoring giant announced late in 2013 that it would cease manufacturing in Australia by 2017 and move all production to Thailand and Korea. Shortly after, Toyota also announced that it would end manufacturing in the country, which coupled with Ford’s decision to cease its local manufacturing operations in October 2016, capped off a terrible year for Australia’s car making sector. Australian Manufacturing

Bayer acquires Monsanto for $66bn German drug maker Bayer has agreed to purchase US seed giant Monsanto for $66 billion, creating a vast conglomerate spanning pharmaceuticals, health products and pesticides. Werner Baumann (left), CEO of Bayer AG, and Hugh Grant, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MonsantoImage credit: wImage credit: www.bayer.com The $128-a-share deal, which values Monsanto at $56 billion, will combine two different, but highly complementary businesses into one entity which will benefit from Monsanto’s leadership in Seeds & Traits and Climate Corporation platform and Bayer’s broad Crop Protection product line across a comprehensive range of indications and crops in all key geographies. Bayer, which will also take on Monsanto’s $10 billion debt as part of the takeover agreement, said the merger will provide growers with a broad set of solutions to meet their current and future needs, including enhanced solutions in seeds and traits, digital agriculture, and crop protection. “We are pleased to announce the combination of our two great organizations,” said Werner Baumann, CEO of Bayer AG. “This represents a major step forward for our Crop Science business and reinforces Bayer’s leadership position as a global innovation driven Life Science company with leadership positions in its core segments, delivering substantial value to shareholders, our customers, employees and society at large.” Hugh Grant, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Monsanto, said the merger will bring together both companies’ leading innovation capabilities and R&D technology platforms, with an annual pro-forma R&D budget of approximately EUR 2.5 billion. According to him, the combined business will accelerate innovation and provide customers with enhanced solutions and an optimized product suite based on analytical agronomic insight supported by Digital Farming applications. “Today’s announcement is a testament to everything we’ve achieved and the value that we have created for our stakeholders at Monsanto. We believe that this combination with Bayer represents the most compelling value for our shareowners, with the most certainty through the all-cash consideration,” said Mr Grant added. According to Bayer, the combined agriculture business will have its global Seeds & Traits and North American commercial headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. The global Crop Protection and overall Crop Science headquarters will be based in Monheim, Germany, with an important presence in Durham, North Carolina. The Digital Farming activities for the combined business will be based in San Francisco, California. “This combination is a great opportunity for employees, who will be at the forefront of innovation in our sector,” Mr Baumann remarked. “This transaction also enhances Bayer’s strong commitment to the U.S., building on our 150-year history with operations across 25 states employing more than 12,000 people in the country. I am convinced that Monsanto will flourish as part of one of the most respected and trusted companies in the world.” The acquisition, which is expected to be completed by the end of next year, is subject to customary closing conditions, including Monsanto shareholder approval of the merger agreement and receipt of required regulatory approvals. Australian Manufacturing

Ai Group teams up with Siemens, Swinburne University to deliver high-level Industry 4.0 apprenticeship initiative The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has teamed up with Siemens and Swinburne University of Technology to implement a project that could reinvent apprenticeships in Australia. Image credit: aigroup.com.au The project, which was announced by Ai Group’s Chief Executive Innes Willox last week, will create an apprenticeship model that will support the higher skills needed for the emerging fourth industrial revolution or otherwise known as Industry 4.0. “Ai Group’s Higher Level Applied Technology apprenticeship project has had funding approved under the Stream Two of the Apprenticeships Training – alternative delivery pilots initiative by the Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, Karen Andrews. This innovative project will be implemented in collaboration with Siemens Ltd and Swinburne University of Technology,” Mr Willox said. “This is a ground-breaking initiative. Not only will this provide higher level qualifications, it will also appeal to a broader cross-section of young people who will gain these qualifications while working in a company that is a technology leader.” A successful apprentice will receive a new Diploma and Associate Degree in Applied Technologies developed by Siemens, the leader of the Prime Minister’s Industry 4.0 Taskforce, in collaboration with related companies and the Swinburne University of Technology. According to Siemens, the qualification combines key industry initiatives and policies, such as the National Science and Innovation Agenda and the Growth Centres initiatives, into a practical experiential learning environment to address particular industry needs with a focus on the adoption of high-level technology skills and the tools required for the future workforce. The pilot brings together the best of university and vocational learning models to improve the STEM skills of technically minded participants and also incorporates skills for the new millennia in business and design. Mr Willox said participants will be highly capable post-Year 12 school leavers and will be employed under arrangements built upon the apprenticeship model for the duration of the program. “The award of an Associate Degree articulating to a Bachelor’s Degree will appeal to a broader range of potential applicants than the standard apprenticeship model. Employers are able to train future technicians with a higher skills level to meet their increasing needs in the knowledge economy,” he added. Siemens’ CEO Jeff Connolly said the pilot will initially involve 20 participants through participation in a Diploma and Associate Degree in Applied Technologies with guaranteed pathways for graduates to a relevant Bachelor Degree by 2020. Image credit: corporate.siemens.com.au “The industrial environment has entered a phase of digital revolution. Australia needs to continuously modify education content and delivery models in order to equip today’s youth with the skills needed to be a part of the digitalised future,” Mr Connolly said. “The Prime Minister’s Industry 4.0 Taskforce Apprenticeship program is a practical, action-oriented approach which should further increase our ability to be a part of the future of advanced manufacturing and secure jobs in major global supply chains,” Professor Linda Kristjanson, Vice Chancellor of Swinburne University, said the University was determined to deliver social and economic impact in collaboration with industry. “As Australia’s labour market is fundamentally reshaped by technological change, our education and training system must continue to evolve to meet industry needs, Ms Kristjanson said. “The program will deliver graduates with the skills required to meet the impact of disruptive technologies in all industries and provide them with a competitive edge.” Australian Manufacturing

Bruce Rock Engineering opens new manufacturing plant, unveils 60 metre road train Leading heavy road transport equipment manufacturer Bruce Rock Engineering (BRE) has officially opened its Perth metropolitan workshop facility in Forrestfield. Image credit: Bruce Rock Engineering Facebook page According to the company, all design, manufacture and construction of its manufacturing equipment is being carried out at the new purpose-built facility, which is one hectare in size and covers 27,000 square metres including 350 square metres of administration offices. During the opening of the new plant, the company also showcased the BRE Super-Quad, a 60 metre road train tipped to deliver much needed cost efficiencies to the mining sector whilst reducing heavy vehicle road traffic and the impact on road infrastructure in the State. BRE’s Managing Director, Mr Damion Verhoogt said the fabrication of the chassis of the Super-Quad was completed in the new facility, whilst its body, blasting, painting and assembly was completed in Bruce Rock. “Today’s launch is a significant milestone for the business cumulating the organisation’s recent expansion into the east coast to extend the company’s capacity to deliver transport equipment to Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania,” Mr Verhoogt said. “The significance of the Forrestfied location means that we are close to our clients and have the ability to provide Perth metropolitan access to repairs, modifications and maintenance.” Mr Verhoogt also announced the BRE’s merger with welding and fabrication specialists Transbeam Industries, saying it will increase the company’s manufacturing capacity by close to 50%. “The Transbeam partnership brings with it considerable benefits to the operation, most notably the new plasma profile cutting machine which is the biggest and most advanced of its kind in Western Australia” Mr Verhoogt added. Australian Manufacturing

Hedweld Engineering opens new manufacturing plant in the Hunter Valley Hedweld Engineering, the leading designer, manufacturer and exporter of mining and safety equipment has officially opened its new advanced manufacturing facility in the Hunter Valley. Image credit: Hedweld Facebook page The $8 million plant, which was as established with the help of a $2 million Manufacturing Transition Programme grant from the Australian Government, will house some of the world’s most technologically advanced machinery that will significantly boost the company’s production capacity. The new plant will also allow Hedweld to diversify into new sectors such as the agribusiness, defence, construction, civil engineering and underground mining markets. Assistant Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Craig Laundy, who attended the official opening of the new facility, said the expansion would enable Hedweld to increase its competitiveness, create skilled job opportunities for the Hunter Valley and increase exports. “Hedweld has invested in a world class manufacturing facility using the world’s most advanced robotic metal processing technology and equipment,” the Minister added. The Manufacturing Transition Programme provides manufacturing businesses with grant funding to increase competitiveness and supports capital investment projects that help businesses to move or expand into higher value and/or niche manufacturing activities. The programme also helps businesses build skills in higher value and knowledge intensive activities in new or growing markets. Australian Manufacturing

Alstom to build nine new X’Trapolis trains for Melbourne’s rail network The immediate future of Altom’s Ballarat workshop looks all but secured after Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan announced an order of nine new X’Trapolis trains to be manufactured at the plant. Image credit: http://ift.tt/1oBNQfi The new 54 carriage order is part of the Government’s Trains, Trams, Jobs: Rolling Stock Strategy, which was devised to put an end to the ad-hoc procurement of trains and trams, giving certainty to companies and workers in the engineering and manufacturing industries. According to the Minister, the first train is expected to enter service in mid-2018, following the delivery of existing orders underway, with delivery of the ninth train expected in early 2019. “We’re getting on with improving public transport, building the infrastructure we need like the Metro Tunnel and new trains, to keep Victoria moving,” Ms Allan said. “We’re guaranteeing local jobs at Alstom in Ballarat and the broader supply chain in Victoria.” Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight said there will be a fleet of 101 X’Trapolis trains on Melbourne’s network once this work is completed. “I’m really proud of the quality of work the employees at Alstom’s Ballarat workshops turn out and of the contribution Alstom makes to our local community,” she added. “These nine new trains, built in Ballarat for Melbourne, secures local jobs for years to come.” Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard said the new trains will boost reliability and improve the carriages to make them more comfortable for passengers. “Our pipeline of investment in trains and trams gives local workers certainty, boosts Ballarat’s economy and the capacity of Melbourne’s rail network,” Mr Howard said. Australian Manufacturing

Talga announces graphene partnership with German battery group Advanced materials company Talga Resources has partnered with German-based technology company JenaBatteries to jointly explore use of Talga’s graphene products in flow batteries. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cGYzDs Under the agreement, Talga will formulate and supply graphene for testing in components producing JenaBatteries’ patented polymer flow battery, a type of redox flow battery suitable for commercial scale and grid applications. A flow battery, or redox flow battery, is a type of rechargeable battery where rechargeability is provided by two chemical components dissolved in liquids and separated by a membrane. Energy is stored in the liquid electrolyte in external tanks (rather in the battery cell). Talga’s graphite will aim to reduce manufacturing costs and increase the performance and longevity of the flow battery by utilising graphene’s renowned properties of conductivity, chemical inertness and impermeability. Talga said the collaboration will provide a platform for its graphene to be introduced to the large scale stationary energy storage sector, using variants of its graphene already developed for mobile energy applications. Managing Director Mark Thompson said each company will contribute its own intellectual property and products to the collaboration and can share jointly in any new technologies resulting from the collaboration. “We are delighted to formally advance another industry partnership and collaboration opportunity. This agreement supports our recently announced graphene products strategy and highlights the growing applications for our graphene in the energy storage sector,” Mr Thompson added. “JenaBatteries are an innovative company, who like us, are targeting the more industrial scale applications for our respective technologies. We very much look forward to sharing joint success with Olaf and his team.” JenaBatteries Managing Director Olaf Conrad said he was hopeful the collaboration will yield exciting results for both parties. “Fuel cells share many parallels with flow batteries and thus we are very interested to see how publicised graphene results in fuel cells can translate into an industrial scale setting with our redox flow batteries,” Mr Conrad said. “The components of our energy storage systems can potentially benefit from the unique properties of materials like graphene with regard to longevity, performance and cost and we are excited to be collaborating with Talga on this joint program.” Australian Manufacturing

Campbell’s Soup Australia wins top honour at inaugural Soft Tissue Centre Awards Campbell’s Soup Australia has won the first Soft Tissue Centre (STC) Gold Star Award for employee health and wellness after recording zero Lost Time Injuries for each of the past three years (no productive work time lost due to injury) and just one injury for each of the past two years. Image credit: STC facebook page The STC Silver Award went to Greater Shepparton City Council while the Bronze was awarded to CGT Ballarat Gold Mine. Greater Shepparton City Council had just three WorkCover claims in the past year, a 40% fall in days lost due to injury and a 53% decrease in reported injuries. STC has been working with GSCC for almost three years. CGT Ballarat Gold Mine had a 76% drop in days lost due to injury in the past 12 months, a 50% fall in WorkCover claims and a 44% decrease in cases involving lost time. STC has been working with CGT Ballarat Gold Mine for the past year. The Soft Tissue Centre (STC) is a Gisborne-based health management service specialising in supporting employees in the workplace. Founded in 2000, it focuses in prevention, early intervention and innovative treatment of work-related musculoskeletal injuries. Today it works with employees and employers at 60 sites across Australia. STC Founder and Managing Director, Dr James Murray said the STC Awards were established to recognise outstanding achievement in workplace health and wellbeing. “Our approach is the sports model, keeping everyone on the field for the duration of the game. Campbell’s Soup Australia is certainly doing that, zero lost time injuries for the past three years. This is an outstanding result and proof that it can be achieved,” Dr Murray said. “Greater Shepparton City Council and CGT Ballarat Gold Mine have achieved significant reductions in WorkCover claims, injuries and time lost due to injury. They are fast becoming leaders in their field. There can be health, wellness and productivity in the workplace. It is achievable. Commercial success does not have to come at the expense of employee health. In fact, employee health and wellness are the key to success.” Dr Murray will present the awards to the companies at a morning tea in Shepparton, on 16 September. Australian Manufacturing

Evolution Rail consortium selected to build Melbourne’s 65 new High Capacity Metro Trains The Evolution Rail consortium, comprising Downer Rail, CRRC, and Plenary, has been selected as the preferred tenderer to build Melbourne’s 65 new High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMT) following an extensive 12-month global tender process. Image credit: Victorian Government’s YouTube channel Making the announcement, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the project will create 1,100 highly-skilled local jobs, bolstering the state’s reputation as a global hub of rolling stock manufacturing. He said all 65 of the new trains will be built in Victoria, with 60 per cent local content and a strong industry participation plan that includes 15% Victorian apprentices, trainees and cadets, as well as workers from disadvantaged backgrounds. “The state’s largest single order of new trains will be built in Victoria, for Victoria,” Mr Andrews said. “This brings enormous benefits to our state, creating 1,100 local jobs and cementing Victoria’s reputation as the nation’s hub for high-skilled manufacturing and a global hub for train building.” To answer the demands of a project of such magnitude, Downer’s Newport manufacturing facility will undergo a $16 million upgrade, whereas CRRC will establish a new regional headquarters in Melbourne. In addition, a new maintenance and stabling depot in Pakenham East will be built with 87% local content, providing 100 new long-term ongoing jobs for the community. The new HCMTs will not only be longer than existing trains, but will also be safer, more reliable and more comfortable for passengers. The first train will be delivered by November 2018, with all 65 trains rolling out as a dedicated fleet in time for the opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2026. “This is every train we need to boost services in Melbourne’s south east and run the turn-up-and-go services we’ll deliver by building the Metro Tunnel,” said Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan. “These new high capacity trains will do the heavy lifting on the Cranbourne-Pakenham lines, ahead of the opening of the Metro Tunnel, enabling more passengers to travel during the busiest parts of the day.” To meet demand on the network prior to the roll-out of HCMTs, nine new six-car trains will also be ordered from Alstom, securing work at the company’s Ballarat workshop until at least 2019. Australian Manufacturing

Victorian boat manufacturer wins government grant to boost production Bar Crusher Boats, the largest manufacturer of “plate” aluminium trailer boats in Australia, has received a $320,000 funding boost from the Victorian state government to invest in new equipment and increase its exports by over $1 million. Image credit: http://ift.tt/1oBNQfi Bar Crusher manufactures boats from 4.9m to 7.8m in length for the recreational and fishing boating industry, which is worth $4.5 billion in Victoria alone. The Dandenong South based boat manufacturer will use the funding to purchase and implement the latest Robotic Processing Line, which will provide world-class production capability, and increase the capacity and competitiveness of its production facility. Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan, who visited the company’s manufacturing facility in Dandenong South said the funding will enable the company to undertake a $1.44 million project, take on 12 new workers, transition five existing staff members and increase its exports by over $1 million. “Our Future Industries Manufacturing Program is helping businesses, small and large, to invest in new technologies and processes that will transition Victoria towards an advanced manufacturing economy,” the Minister said. “We are investing in the south-east to help businesses diversify into new markets, to help workers transition into new jobs and to help our local communities survive and grow.” This grant award builds on the nine projects already underway as part of the Labor Government’s Future Industries Manufacturing Program, which provides companies with grants of up to $500,000 to invest in new manufacturing technologies and processes, and create jobs. For more information about the Program, visit http://ift.tt/1U7xUML. Australian Manufacturing

Babcock secures multi-year contract to transform Qantas’ airline ground support fleet Babcock has been awarded a five-year contract to support the Qantas Group’s fleet of Ground Support Equipment (GSE), which comprises more than 10,000 assets spread across over 60 locations across Australia. Image credit: http://ift.tt/SLLcix The five year Asset Management partnership, which can be extended for a further two years, will see Babcock team up with Qantas to transform the airline’s entire GSE fleet, improving reliability and delivering long term cost and capability benefits in the process. Babcock already provides a range of support services at international airports, including in London, Amsterdam, Sao Paolo, and most recently Rome. The company’s Australasia Chief Operating Officer David Ruff said the new contract was a testament to Babcock’s capability to deliver fleet management services to a range of customers including the London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police. “We are excited to work in an innovative partnership with an iconic Australian company,” Mr Ruff said. “We have a proven track record of improving performance and reliability whilst delivering cost savings, and look forward to delivering safe and effective fleet capability at every Qantas operating site.” Graeme Nayler, the company’s Director Corporate Development, said Babcock has already completed a large chunk of the design and implementation work and was ready to “hit the ground running”. “Our vision for Qantas is one where GSE is managed and measured centrally through a single asset management system and is accessible to all business units and sites, no matter how remote,” Mr Nayler remarked. Babcock is a leading engineering services and operational support organisation, with over 34,000 employees around the globe and revenues of over AU$9.5 billion. The company employs 700 staff in Australia and New Zealand. Australian Manufacturing

AMCL “in disbelief” over defence uniforms contract The Government’s decision to award a $9 million contract for making ceremonial Australian Defence Force uniforms to a company who sources the clothing out of China was met with heavy criticism by the Australia Made Campaign (AMCL). Image credit: http://ift.tt/29fs8y2 The contract was awarded to Australian Defence Apparel, which will produce the clothing using “established sub-contractor arrangements” overseas. The AMCL said that by choosing the cheapest option in order to save taxpayers money, the Government ignored the greater good of generating a positive flow on effects in terms of jobs, economic benefits and taxes paid that would come by choosing an Australian manufacturer. AMCL Chief Executive Ian Harrison said it was beyond belief the Defence Department was dressing its soldiers in clothing made in China solely because of a cheaper upfront price. “To put our soldiers in uniforms made in other countries, when we have the capacity here in Australia to make uniforms, is mind blowing,” Mr Harrison said. “There are not many things more Australian than the Defence Force and Australia is where its uniforms should be made. The Government has failed to look at the longer term impact of its decision. Government procurement shouldn’t just be about looking for the cheapest price. It should be about using taxpayers’ dollars to invest in building a more competitive manufacturing industry in Australia.” Australian Manufacturing

Local Motors’ new 3D printed, self-driving car will have a drone launch pad (VIDEO) Local Motors and Mouser Electronics have announced the winner of the Local Motors Essence of Autonomy challenge which asked participants to come up with innovative and useful features to be included in Local Motor’s next 3D printed self-driving car. Image credit: cocreate.localmotors.com The winning submission belonged to Finn Yonkers of Rhode Island, who proposed that the Local Motors Strati be equipped with a drone launch pad on the back of the vehicle and screens that deploy inside of the windshield. His entry envisaged that, without the responsibility of driving, the riders’ drone could fly overhead and use a camera to project a bird’s-eye view to the screens inside. The win will see Mr Yonkers’ vehicle be built and become part of Mouser’s Empowering Innovation Together program, and will also allow him to fly to Local Motors headquarters in Phoenix to build the vehicle alongside Imahara and Local Motors engineers. “Local Motors already had most of the technology to make the autonomous vehicle figured out. This project was about taking it to the next level,” said engineer Grant Imahara. “To do this we called on the imaginations of engineers all across the world. Mouser’s Empowering Innovation Together™ program and vast array of parts enabled this, so it was a great partnership to bring our shared vision to life.” Local Motors Co-founder and CEO John B. Rogers, Jr. said the company’s approach to direct digital manufacturing and the ingenuity of its co-creation community meant that Local Motors could partner with cutting-edge suppliers like Mouser Electronics to bring innovations to life at unprecedented speeds. “The Mouser Strati offers a glimpse into the future of autonomous driving right now,” he added. Glenn Smith, President and CEO of Mouser Electronics, said one of the company’s cornerstone principles was to help engineers push the boundaries of innovation. “It’s not just fun — it’s rewarding. By increasing innovation and the speed of technology, we can all do more to help humanity and our world,” Mr Smith said. “We look forward to unveiling the finished product soon. Stay tuned!” Australian Manufacturing

Volvo’s self-driving truck goes deep underground (VIDEO) Volvo’s fully autonomous truck has become the world’s first self-driving truck to be tested in real-life deep underground operations as part of a R&D project with Saab’s wholly owned technology consulting company Combitech aimed at improving the transport flow and safety in the mine. Image credit: news.volvogroup.com The Swedish car maker has released a film showing its specially equipped Volvo FMX covering a distance of 7 kilometres and reaching 1,320 metres underground in the narrow mine tunnels of the Kristineberg Mine located in northern Sweden. “This is the world’s first fully self-driving truck to operate under such tough conditions,” said Torbjörn Holmström, member of the Volvo Group Executive Board and Volvo Group Chief Technology Officer. “It is a true challenge to ensure that everything works meticulously more than 1300 metres underground.” Mr Holmström, who takes part in the film, said he didn’t hesitate to stand in the middle of the mine gallery as the truck approached him. “No matter what type of vehicle we develop, safety is always our primary concern and this also applies to self-driving vehicles,” he added. “I was convinced the truck would stop but naturally I felt a knot in my stomach until the truck applied its brakes!” The self-driving truck uses various sensors to continuously monitors its surroundings and avoid both fixed and moving obstacles. It is also fitted with an on-board transport system that collects data to optimise and coordinate the route and fuel consumption. Australian Manufacturing

Explosion kills two at Orica’s plant in Chile Two workers have been killed in an accident that occurred at Orica’s packaged emulsions manufacturing plant in Antofagasta, Chile. Image credit: www.orica.com According to the company, the plant was undergoing maintenance when an explosion occurred, resulting in the death of two workers. “Any incident that results in fatalities or injuries is devastating, and our concern now is to support the families and colleagues of our two workers,” the company said in a press release. Orica is an Australian-based multinational corporation that provides commercial explosives and blasting systems for the mining and infrastructure markets. Australian Manufacturing

Arrium executes first steel shipment for ARCT’s re-railing project Arrium has commenced the delivery of steel rail for the major upgrade of South Australia’s rail network as part of its contract with the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to supply 73,000 tonnes of rail over the next three years. Image credit: www.arrium.com Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the first train carrying steel rail for the upgrade has departed Arrium’s steelworks in Whyalla on Friday. He said the steel will be used to replace old rail on the railway line from Adelaide to Tarcoola with heavier, stronger steel. “We are boosting the economy and saving money for freight companies by upgrading this 1,200 kilometres of rail to move more freight, faster between Adelaide and Tarcoola,” Mr Chester said. Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Greg Hunt said the contract helps secure an order of steel worth tens of millions of dollars, creating up to 130 direct and indirect local jobs on the re-railing project. “In addition to using Arrium’s steel for the railway, we are supporting the industry by using Australian steel across our naval shipbuilding program and by strengthening Australia’s anti-dumping system,” Mr Hunt added. “And earlier this year the Government approved a $49.2 million loan to Arrium which will be used to purchase equipment for the company’s iron ore operations near Whyalla. We want to set the right business environment to ensure Australian firms like Arrium can grow, prosper and be globally competitive.” ARTC Chief Executive John Fullerton said the Corporation had been busily finalising a “careful, staged roll-out plan for the project”, but had a focus on delivering early orders of steel. “The existing rail between Adelaide and Tarcoola has been nearing its end of life and the new rail delivered by this contract will allow rail operators to carry heavier wagons of freight at faster speeds,” Mr Fullerton said. “This means ongoing benefits from this project for Australian businesses and ultimately, consumers.” Australian Manufacturing

ARENA announces support for 12 new solar projects The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) will support the construction of 12 new large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) plants as part of its multi-million dollar large-scale solar round. Image credit: arena.gov.au ARENA CEO Ivor Frischknecht said the funding would help triple the amount of energy produced from big solar and unlock almost $1 billion of commercial investment in regional Australian economies. “ARENA is working to accelerate Australia’s shift to a sustainable, affordable and reliable energy future and our work supporting the development of Australia’s large-scale solar industry is central to this vision,” Mr Frischknecht said. “Six plants in Queensland, five plants in New South Wales and one plant in Western Australia are slated for funding, in a major milestone that’s expected to triple Australia’s large-scale solar capacity from 240 MW to 720 MW. The 12 project will provide enough energy to power 150,000 average Australian homes and deliver one tenth of the new capacity required to meet Australia’s 2020 renewable energy target. “Regional economies will benefit massively from the growing big solar industry, with 2,300 direct jobs and thousands more indirect jobs expected to be created by this round. It is now up to successful companies to deliver these projects in line with ARENA’s requirements, which could see all plants built by the end of next year,” Mr Frischknecht added. “This is an aggressive timetable to lock in financing, off take arrangements, connection agreements and required approvals. Several are seeking debt financing for projects through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation’s complementary large-scale solar program.” Mr Frischknecht said ARENA has played a huge role in bringing down costs and accelerating the commerciality of large-scale solar in Australia since it was established in 2012. “ARENA has carried out a multiyear plan to build capacity in Australian supply chains and expertise over successive large-scale solar projects,” he said. “As a result of our efforts, the ARENA funding ask for big solar projects has dropped significantly from half of total project costs to just 10 per cent on average. This means that every dollar of ARENA funding is leveraging $10 from other sources in this round. He said the agency has more than doubled its expectation of enabling around 200 MW of new projects through this round with the $92 million funding supporting around 480 MW in total. “Australia’s big solar revolution is tantalisingly close and, as more home-grown businesses step up to provide construction, engineering and financial services, this newest tranche of ARENA-supported projects is well positioned to take the sector even closer to commerciality,” Mr Frischknecht concluded. Some of the projects supported through ARENA’s multi-million dollar large-scale solar round include Origin Energy’s Darling Downs Solar Farm, Neoen Australia’s Parkes Solar Farm and Genex Power’s Kidston Solar Farm. Australian Manufacturing

CSIRO opens new hybrid energy technology centre CSIRO has officially launched its Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems which will research cutting edge renewable and hybrid energy technologies. Centre for Hybrid Energy SystemsImage credit: www.csiro.au According to CSIRO, the collaborative facility will serve as a hub for researchers and industry to “identify, improve and then tailor energy technologies” to meet specific requirements. “Combining two or more forms of energy generation, storage or end-use technologies, hybrid systems deliver overall cost and efficiency benefits, compared with single source energy systems,” the CSIRO said in a press release. “Configurations include renewable or non-renewable energy sources, electrical and chemical energy storage and fuel cells, often connected via a smart grid. The collaborative space will be used to share the benefits of emerging hybrid energy systems with industry and government to maximise the value of local energy sources.” CSIRO Fellow Dr Sukhvinder Badwal said the world was experiencing a rapidly growing demand for hybrid energy systems based on increased availability of renewable and modular power generation and storage technologies like batteries, fuel cells, and household solar. “These technologies are becoming cost competitive, but the key to greater use is to combine them in connected hybrid systems,” Dr Badwal added. “By doing this, we can offer substantial improvements in performance, reliability of power, flexibility and cost.” CSIRO’s project partner, Delta Energy Systems Australia, is a developer and manufacturer of environmentally-friendly electric vehicle, solar-supported, fast-charging technologies. The company’s Director Allen Chao said they plan on embarking on a range of collaborative research projects with CSIRO in this field. “The opening of the Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems will expand research in this area and marks a significant milestone to ensure the success of any industry cooperation,” Mr Chao said. In addition to supporting research into renewable and hybrid energy technologies, the Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems will also provide education, testing and certification services for emerging storage batteries, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. Australian Manufacturing

Victoria’s defence manufacturing industry on display at Land Forces 2016 expo Victoria’s defence manufacturing industry is showcasing its world-class capabilities to take on major defence contracts at the Land Forces 2016 exhibition in Adelaide this week. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cwSR5N Minister for Industry and Employment, Wade Noonan said the Andrews Labor Government is supporting 17 local manufacturers to display their commercial land defence capabilities at the three day expo, which is attended by defence and trade delegations from around the globe. He said Victoria’s capabilities make it the logical choice for the manufacture of the Australian Government’s $5 billion Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle acquisition program, also known as LAND 400 Phase 2. “Victoria’s track record of supporting military vehicles make it the natural home to build the next generation Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle and military vehicle programs well into the future,” Mr Noonan said. He said Victoria’s, strength in defence manufacturing has been highlighted by the $1.3 billion dollar Commonwealth contract to build the new Hawkei military vehicle in Bendigo, and by Lockheed Martin’s decision to locate its first R&D Centre outside the United States in Melbourne. “The Land Forces 2016 conference showcases how Victoria’s highly capable defence industry stands ready and able to support global land defence projects,” the Minister added. The Victorian defence industry includes more than 300 businesses, directly employing around 7,000 people who make equipment and provide services for defence activities. It contributes up to $8 billion to the state’s economy. Australian Manufacturing

Nine Victorian automotive supply chain firms receive funding to devise transition plan Nine Victorian automotive supply chain companies will receive assistance under the Labor Government’s Automotive Supply Chain Transition Program (ASCTP) to develop a plan for transition and adapt to the changing automotive manufacturing landscape in the state. Image credit: www.business.gov.au Australian Performance Vehicles, A Bending Company, Dana Australia, Luna Name Plate Industries, Motherson Elastomers, Premoso (trading as Holden Special Vehicles), Socobell Automotive, Socobell OEM and Total Tooling Co will receive $144,000 in funding to diversify into new markets ahead of the closure of automotive manufacturing in Victoria. Announcing the assistance, Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan said this round of funding builds on $446,000 already provided to 20 Victorian automotive supply chain companies under the ASCTP program. “The Andrews Labor Government is targeting our assistance towards the many businesses in the auto supply chain who will be affected by the closure of car manufacturing in Victoria,” the Minister said. “Funding will help Victoria’s auto businesses identify new opportunities and target markets, and put themselves and their workers on a strong footing into the future. Under the $46.5 million ASCTP program, eligible supply chain companies stand to receive a suite of assistance valued at up to $71,000 to engage the services of a qualified industry specialist to help develop a plan for transition. Automotive supply chain businesses interested in applying for ASCTP assistance, or specialist companies seeking to deliver transition projects are encouraged to visit http://ift.tt/1RHEYR0. Australian Manufacturing

Samsung and MakerBot team up to bring 3D printers to Europe’s classrooms As part of its digital skills programme, Samsung has partnered with 3D printing industry giant MakerBot to equip Europe’s schools, colleges and museums with 3D printers. Evelyn Nicola, Sustainability & Citizenship Manager, Samsung EuropeImage credit: Samsung websiteAndreas Langfeld, General Manager of MakerBot EMEA Image credit: Samsung website “In response to the alarming skills gap and high levels of youth unemployment in 2013, we backed the European Commission’s Grand Coalition for Digital Jobs with a pledge to engage 400,000 young people across Europe by 2019,” said Evelyn Nicola, Sustainability & Citizenship Manager, Samsung Europe. “We will achieve our goal 3 years early so we can now invest further in educating thousands of young people in the latest digital skills.” According to Ms Nicola, the partnership with MakerBot is set to support a network of “Lighthouse Schools” – centres of excellence for digital learning across Europe – to teach technology skills and encourage design and manufacture. “Just imagine a 9-year-old girl with her idea for a new design, being able to turn her idea at school into reality and take home. Experiencing the entire creation journey, from idea to digital concept to physical object represents the future of learning and R&D,” she said. According to the official announcement, the planned first phase launches in Germany, Italy, Spain, UK and Sweden this year. “Samsung and MakerBot share the same vision of developing new technologies that help prepare students for the jobs of the future,” said Andreas Langfeld, General Manager of MakerBot EMEA. “3D printing can help teach many of the 21st century skills that employers are looking for and applying knowledge to the real world. We’re excited to partner with Samsung to help even more educators and students discover the power of 3D printing.” Australian Manufacturing

ABB unveils Azipod XL, the world’s most efficient electric propulsion system for marine vessels Global Technology company ABB has announced the release of Azipod XL, the latest version of its market leading podded electric propulsion system which set an industry standard for the marine industry since its introduction 25 years ago. Image credit: www.abb.com Azipod propulsion is a gearless steerable propulsion system with the electric drive motor located in a submerged pod outside the ship hull. Featuring a 360-degree manoeuvring capability, it is used to both steer and drive a wide variety of vessels at the same time. Azipod XL increases vessel fuel efficiency to an unprecedented level of up to 20% compared to modern shaft line propulsion systems by using a unique nozzle system that accelerates the water flow into the propeller to increase thrust, and by redesigning the thruster for reduced water resistance. Azipod propulsion systems have thus far clocked more than 12 million running hours with an availability of 99.8%, saving over 700,000 tons of fuel. Peter Terwiesch, president of ABB’s Process Automation division said the Azipod XL system fits vessels such as tugs and offshore construction vessels, as well as ferries and LNG tankers. “We continuously strive to advance our technology to the benefit of our customers and the environment, as part of our Next Level strategy. Azipod XL is a perfect example for this approach as it represents the biggest jump in the systems’ fuel efficiency in recent years,” Mr Terwiesch said. “To put it in perspective, replacing all existing Azipod units with the new model would save the shipping industry an additional 2.2 million tons of fuel and 7 million tons of carbon dioxide over the next 25 years.” Azipod XL’s features include the capability for advanced condition monitoring using ABB’s concept of the Internet of Things, Services and People (IoTSP) and its Integrated Operations Centers for Marine, continuously monitoring equipment and performance parameters of more than 600 vessels. Australian Manufacturing

BAE Systems’ CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle debuts in Australia BAE Systems is set to showcase its Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) CV90 in Australia at Land Forces 2016, one of the premier land defence events in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which is taking place in Adelaide. Image credit: www.baesystems.com BAE Systems, in partnership with Patria, is offering the CV90 in response to the Commonwealth’s request for information for the LAND 400 Phase 3 program. The CV90 is a tracked combat vehicle that was designed in Sweden, providing high tactical and strategic mobility, air defence, anti-tank capability, high survivability, and lethality in any terrain or tactical environment. Capable of carrying eight dismounts, CV90 is the only vehicle of its kind in the world that is still in production, with a pedigree of multiple successful worldwide operations that include United Nations and NATO missions. The company said the CV90 is a low-risk, military off-the-shelf offering that is ready now for Phase 3. “Combined with the E35 turret, the CV9035 — a variant of the vehicle with a 35mm gun system — provides superior lethality with a high level of commonality with the AMV35 offered for Phase 2. With proven operations around the globe, CV90 will bring the Commonwealth a mature, low total-ownership cost, sustainment program,” BAE said in a media release. “Like the AMV35, CV90 for Phase 3 is well positioned to support and integrate Australian Industrial Capability to deliver jobs and sovereign capability. CV90’s proven design pedigree ensures the growth capacity to address the Commonwealth’s evolving operational requirements of the planned 30-year life of type.” There are nine different CV90 variants in service, with the latest variant currently in production for Norway. Australian Manufacturing

CFMEU: New case of Black Lung disease shows crisis is escalating The CFMEU has confirmed the 15th case of Black Lung disease in the country since its re-emergence at coal mines in Queensland last year. Image credit: CFMEU The miner, whose identity remains unknown, was diagnosed with the disease by the internationally recognised Black Lung disease expert Dr Bob Cohen, despite originally being cleared on two separate occasions by nominated medical assessors and radiologists. CFMEU Mining and Energy Division Queensland District President, Stephen Smyth said the new case only confirmed the union’s fears that health professionals assigned to review x-rays of the mining workforce were not qualified for the task. “It is unbelievable that this disease was missed twice by Australian health professionals in less than a year. Even when Black Lung disease expert Dr Bob Cohen told them it was there they still couldn’t identify it. That’s a nominated medical assessor, and a radiologist who have missed this disease and let a worker go back into dangerous and dusty conditions underground,” Mr Smyth said. “This failure shows that the Black Lung crisis is escalating and why coalmine workers have lost all confidence in the health and regulatory systems that are supposed to be there to keep them safe.” He said while the union was aware of more cases of Black Lung disease – especially from coalmine workers not willing to risk their jobs and livelihoods by coming forward – failures in the system were also deflating confirmed cases. “This coalmine worker had two tests done in 12-months, and both were cleared by Australian health professionals. He also would have had tests done when he started working in Queensland mines, and x-rays done every five years since then. Yet, he has no idea how long he has been living with Black Lung,” Mr Smyth added. “When the system is still failing to identify Black Lung disease despite multiple checks then we still just don’t know how many cases there could be or how many workers are living with the disease but are still going to work each day.” The disease, which was thought to have been eradicated decades ago, is caused by a build-up of coal dust in the lungs due to inadequate ventilation and health standards in coalmines. Australian Manufacturing

GE to fork out $1.4bn for two European 3D printing companies Industrial powerhouse General Electric (GE) has unveiled plans to acquire two European suppliers of additive manufacturing equipment for a combined consideration of $1.4 billion. Image: http://twitter.com/generalelectric GE said it will submit offers to buy Arcam AB and SLM Solutions Group AG as part of its strategy to bolster its existing material science and additive manufacturing capabilities. “Additive manufacturing is a key part of GE’s evolution into a digital industrial company. We are creating a more productive world with our innovative world-class machines, materials and software. We are poised to not only benefit from this movement as a customer, but spearhead it as a leading supplier,” said Jeff Immelt, Chairman and CEO of GE. “Additive manufacturing will drive new levels of productivity for GE, our customers, including a wide array of additive manufacturing customers, and for the industrial world.” Sweden’s Arcam AB invented the electron beam melting machine for metal-based additive manufacturing, and also produces advanced metal powders. The company, which services customers in the aerospace and healthcare industries, generated $68 million in revenues in 2015 with approximately 285 employees. In addition to its Sweden site in Mölndal, Arcam operates AP&C, a metal powders operation in Canada, and DiSanto Technology, a medical additive manufacturing firm in Connecticut, as well as sales and application sites worldwide. SLM Solutions Group is a Germany-based company that produces laser machines for metal-based additive manufacturing with customers in the aerospace, energy, healthcare, and automotive industries. Last year SLM generated $74 million with 260 employees. The company also has sales and application sites worldwide. Both companies will report into David Joyce, President & CEO of GE Aviation, who will lead the growth of these businesses in the additive manufacturing equipment and services industry. Mr Joyce said GE has invested approximately $1.5 billion in manufacturing and additive technologies since 2010. He said the investment has enabled the company to develop additive applications across six GE businesses, create new services applications across the company, and earn 346 patents in powder metals alone. “Additive manufacturing fits GE’s business model to lead in technologies that leverage systems integration, material science, services and digital productivity. It will benefit from the GE Store and our core engineering capability, said Mr Joyce, who will also lead the integration effort and the GE Store initiative to drive additive manufacturing applications across GE. “We chose these two companies for a reason. We love the technologies and leadership of Arcam AB and SLM Solutions. They each bring two different, complementary additive technology modalities as individual anchors for a new GE additive equipment business to be plugged into GE’s resources and experience as leading practitioners of additive manufacturing. Over time, we plan to extend the line of additive manufacturing equipment and products.” Australian Manufacturing

Samsung Electronics Australia recalls Galaxy Note7 smartphone due to fire concerns Samsung Electronics Australia is recalling 51,060 Galaxy Note7 smartphones in the country as part of a worldwide recall of the new devices following reports of exploding batteries. Image credit: www.samsung.com The Australian arm of the technology giant has told all customers who use a Galaxy Note7 smartphone to turn off their device, return it to its place of purchase and use another phone until a remedy can be provided. According to the company, customers who have purchased a Galaxy Note7 from Samsung are entitled to choose a new Galaxy Note7 (and a courtesy device until replacement Galaxy Note7 stock arrives) or a full refund. Richard Fink, Vice President IT & Mobile, Samsung Electronics Australia said the delivery of a replacement Galaxy Note7 to customers is expected within three to four weeks. “The safety and ongoing satisfaction of our customers is our top priority. We know our Galaxy Note7 customers are our most loyal customers and we are taking a proactive approach to support them,” Mr Fink said. “We are asking customers to contact Samsung or their place of purchase to arrange a suitable courtesy smartphone or refund. Courtesy devices will become available from this Wednesday (September 7, 2016).” Australian Manufacturing

Volvo & Autoliv set up joint venture for autonomous driving Volvo Cars and Autoliv Inc have agreed to set up a new jointly-owned company to develop next generation autonomous driving software. Image credit: http://ift.tt/1dh34iR Headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden, the new company will have an initial workforce of around 200, increasing to over 600 in the medium term. The yet-to-be-named company will develop advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous drive (AD) systems for use in Volvo cars and for sale exclusively by Autoliv to all car makers globally, with revenues shared by both companies. Volvo is renowned for manufacturing some of the world’s safest cars and for inventing the three point safety belt, which is believed to have saved over one million lives since the company waived its patent rights to other car manufacturers. In keeping with its reputation for pioneering safety innovations, Volvo has devised a medium term vision that envisions zero casualties and injuries in a new Volvo by 2020. Autoliv is the world’s leading supplier of safety systems to car makers around the globe and is responsible for the development and introduction of active and passive safety technologies to the world’s leading car makers for more than 60 years. Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive of Volvo Cars, said the joint venture will bring together two global leaders in automotive safety, underlining the contribution ADAS and AD can make to road safety and speeding the development and introduction of fully autonomous cars. “By combining our know how and resources we will create a world leader in AD software development. This means we can introduce this exciting technology to our customers faster,” Mr Samuelsson stated. Jan Carlson, Chairman, Chief Executive and President of Autoliv, said the joint venture marks the first time a leading premium car maker has joined forces with a tier one supplier to develop new ADAS and AD technologies. “There are no two companies that can claim to have done more for automotive safety worldwide than Autoliv and Volvo,” Mr Carlson added. “This new company is a recognition of the fact that autonomous driving is the next step to transform road safety.” According to the press release by Volvo, both JV partners will licence and transfer the intellectual property for their ADAS systems to the joint venture. “From this base the company will develop new ADAS technologies and AD systems. It expects to have its first ADAS products available for sale by 2019 with AD technologies available by 2021,” reads the press release. “Autoliv will be the exclusive supplier and distribution channel for all the new company’s products towards third parties, except Volvo Cars which will source directly from the new company. Its management will comprise of representatives from Autoliv and Volvo Cars.” The new company is expected to start operations in the beginning of 2017. Australian Manufacturing

Deakin University & RCR develop robotics-driven target system for safer defence training Deakin University has struck a partnership agreement with RCR for the development of a world-class robotics-driven target system to be used by armed forces in training to improve their accuracy. Image credit: Deakin University Facebook page Dubbed the OzBot Raider, this relatively low-cost system allows a wide variety of targets, including simulated thermal or acoustic payloads, or panels lined with high-tech coatings, and can be configured on a graded track and deployed within an hour to a new location. On-board sensors allow the speed and location of the target to be monitored or adjusted in real time, while high-definition cameras mounted on both the tug and trailer provide operators with real-time view of the down-range operations and allow targeting accuracy to be assessed during or at the end of each run. The system, which is battery powered with spare packs able to be charged from a standard power outlet or small generator, can operate in GPS-denied areas, offers low heat generation and, thanks to its modular design, allows for quick and easy in-field servicing. The unmanned tug-operated unit uses a high-torque, high speed DC electric motor and it will follow any straight, graded path as defined by the guide cable while on-board sensors accurately monitor key system parameters and can automatically slow or halt the system if an error is detected. Professor Nahavandi, the Director of Deakin’s Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI), said the target-trailer connects to the tug via a 360° rotating hitch, which allows the trailer to naturally swing around and follow the tug each time the tug changes direction. He said the unique design allows the tug to perform continuous runs back and forth without human intervention. “The OzBot Raider will enable armed forces to undertake validation and compliance testing of weapons without risk to personnel or any compromise in scenario realism,” Professor Nahavandi remarked. “This is a globally unique system that has potential to improve weapon accuracy, which will translate to increased effectiveness.” RCR CEO Dr Paul Dalgleish said the system is currently undergoing field trials and is expected to achieve full readiness in coming weeks. “RCR has the financial, marketing and manufacturing capacity to work with Deakin University to take these robotic target systems to the defence marketplace,” Dr Dalgleish added. “RCR is proud to be a high-tech Australian engineering firm which designs and manufactures equipment locally. We train and employ our own people to be highly skilled to produce world class equipment, so Target Bot and Oz Bot are exactly the sort or innovative products we are targeting. The OzBot Raider will be presented to the Australian Army next month. Australian Manufacturing

Pact Group set to acquire specialty co-manufacturer APM Packaging company Pact Group has struck a $90 million agreement to acquire specialty co-manufacturer Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (APM), subject to customary conditions. Image credit: pactgroup.com.au APM, which was established in 2002, is one of the largest providers of manufacturing and packaging services for nutraceuticals in Australia with significant industry experience and long term relationships with leading participants in the health and wellness sector. The company’s manufacturing facilities are equipped with cutting edge technology to deliver tableting, encapsulation and packaging solutions and a range of therapeutic nutraceutical products including vitamin and mineral supplements, herbal remedies, amino acids and other specialised formulations. Pact Group’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Malcolm Bundey said the acquisition, to be funded by $75 million of bank debt and a share issue of $15 million, formed an important part of the company’s strategy to expand in specialised co-manufacturing. He said the move would complement and extend Pact’s existing position established through the successful acquisition of Jalco in September 2015. “The acquisition of APM is strongly aligned with our growth strategy and is expected to add significant value to Pact. APM operates in a very attractive sector which is experiencing robust growth in demand both domestically and in export markets,” Mr Bundey added. “APM’s product and service portfolio complements and enhances our established position in co-manufacturing and our broader specialty packaging business. There is significant overlap in our customer portfolios. This acquisition enables us to expand our service offering and deepen our customer relationships. We are very excited about the growth opportunities this acquisition provides Pact and look forward to welcoming the APM team to the Group.” The transaction is expected to be finalised on 16 September 2016. Australian Manufacturing

Amcor buys Sonoco’s blow moulding operations in North America Amcor has reached a US$280 million (approximately A$ 369,000,000) agreement to acquire the North American rigid plastics blow moulding operations of Sonoco Products Company, a global packaging firm based in the United States. Image credit: Amcor webpage Sonoco Products owns six production sites across the US and one in Canada, generating annual sales of approximately US$210 million (A$ 276million). Amcor CEO and Managing Director Ron Delia said the acquisition will enhance the company’s product offering by adding complementary capabilities and technologies, including more extensive extrusion blow moulding and injection technologies, expertise in producing polyethylene, polypropylene and multi-layer containers, as well as additional decorating capabilities. According to him, the move will also deliver substantial operational synergies of approximately US20 million (A$26 million) and add a total of US$50 million of PBIT (A$66 million) to Amcor’s Rigid Plastics segment at the end of the third full year of ownership (FY2020). “The Amcor Rigid Plastics business has significant growth opportunities, including in segments outside of the traditional non-alcoholic beverage markets,” Mr Delia added. “Part of our strategy to grow this business includes acquiring specialised manufacturing capabilities which unlock further growth in key segments.” The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals in the United States. Australian Manufacturing

Woodside to acquire 50% of BHP Billiton’s interest in the Scarborough area gas fields Woodside has agreed to acquire half of BHP Billiton’s area assets in the Carnarvon Basin, located offshore Western Australia. Image credit: Woodside Facebook page The Australian petroleum exploration and production company said the acquisition includes a 25% interest in WA-1-R (BHP Billiton 50% share, ExxonMobil 50% share) and 50% interest in WA-62- R (BHP Billiton 100% share), which together contain the Scarborough gas filed. Additionally, the company will acquire a half of BHP’s interest in WA-61-R (BHP Billiton 100% share) and WA-63-R (BHP Billiton 100% share) which contain the Jupiter and Thebe gas field. Under the agreement, Woodside will pay BHP an initial US$250 million and a further US$150 million payable upon a positive investment decision to develop the Scarborough gas field. Woodside CEO Peter Coleman said the addition of Carnarvon Basin Volumes to the Australian portfolio would complement the company’s growth strategy and leverage its deep water and LNG capabilities. “We look forward to working with ExxonMobil and BHP Billiton following of the transaction to progress commercialization of these world-class resources,” Mr Coleman added. BHP Billiton President Operations, Petroleum, Steve Pastor said the company considers the proposed sale to Woodside to be “a positive outcome for all parties”. “Woodside is a strong partner with substantial LNG experience in Western Australia, and we believe they will contribute positively to the future development of the Scarborough resources,” Mr Pastor stated. The Scarborough area assets include the Scarborough, thebe and Jupiter fields, which are estimated to contain gross 8.7 trillion cubic feet of as resource at the 2C confidence level. According to Woodside, its net share of the resources is estimated to e 2.6 trillion cubic feet of gas. Under the proposed transaction – subject to a number of conditions precedent including joint partner pre-emption rights and regulatory approvals – ExxonMobil will remain operator of Scarborough, with operatorship of North Scarborough to be transferred from BHP Billiton to Woodside. Completion is expected by the end of the 2016 calendar year. Australian Manufacturing

ABB unveils cutting edge factory in India to double its solar inverter manufacturing output ABB India, a subsidiary of global technology firm ABB, has inaugurated a new solar inverter manufacturing facility in Bengaluru which will double the company’s capacity in the country. Image credit: www.abb.com The facility, which stretches over 17 acres of land, was inaugurated by Robert Itschner, Managing Director for ABB’s Power Conversion business unit and Sanjeev Sharma, CEO and Managing Director, ABB in India. “India is one of the world’s fastest growing solar markets, and ABB has been steadily expanding its solar inverter manufacturing facilities in India over the years,” Mr Itschner said. “We are proud of this new state-of-the-art factory which will help us to serve the market even better and which is testimony to our long-term commitment to India.“ The expansion follows the company’s recent achievement in India which saw ABB become the first company to double the solar inverter installed base to 2 GW in a span of five months. The Bengaluru site manufactures ABB’s PVS800 central inverter series, which will help power 40% of the utility-scale solar power generated in the country. These inverters enjoy great popularity in India because of their ease of commissioning and reliable performance in harsh climate conditions. “ABB, a global leader in solar inverter technology, has also been powering solar projects across the country spanning the entire solar photovoltaic (PV) value chain, a key component of which has been our solar inverter technology, made in India,” said Sanjeev Sharma. “The government’s vision has provided the required catalyst and focus for clean energy and ABB is proud to partner this journey. This expansion reaffirms our commitment, innovation to cater to country-specific solutions and enhances our manufacturing presence of sixty years.” ABB solar inverters range from 2 kW to 2 MW and are optimised for residential rooftop usage as well as cost-efficient multi-megawatt power plants. Australian Manufacturing

BAE Systems inks deal with Australian Government for Future Frigate Program BAE Systems has announced that it has signed an agreement with the Australian Government regarding the update of its Type 26 Global Combat Ship, as part of the Australian naval force’s SEA 5000 Future Frigate program. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cfFfgu According to the official announcement, the company will send its Australia-bases engineer tam in the UK where they will collaborate with their UK counterparts on the new design for the combat ship. Further, BAE revealed that a 3-dimensional visualisation suite will be delivered to Australia to help improve understanding of the unique features of the ship design. “We look forward to demonstrating the adaptability and maturity of the Global Combat Ship design to meet Australia’s requirements for an Anti-Submarine Warship frigate,“ said BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive, Glynn Phillips. “The Global Combat Ship design is the most modern, adaptable and flexible of all possible options available today, and I am confident that we will be able to demonstrate that it is the best able to meet the requirements of the Royal Australian Navy.” Fincantieri and Navantia have also signed similar agreements to participate in the Competitive Evaluation Process for the Future Frigates Programme – SEA 5000. “We are fully committed to this programme, which represents one of the most important naval surface shipbuilding projects in the world. This is the first ever contract signed by Fincantieri with the Australian Department of Defence and we are very excited by the opportunity to participate in the evaluation process and to propose the very best of the Italian shipbuilding design and construction,” said Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. “We hope that this will be only the first step in this important programme, in which our company would be able to put its wealth of experience, know-how, capabilities and transfer of technology at the service of the Australian Government and its Navy.” Navantia dubbed its participation in the program as a significant milestone for the future of company in Australia. “This program has the potential to allow for the development of Navantia Australia’s local capabilities and its Operations and Design Centre, which will actively participate in this design phase,” Navantia said in a press release. Australian Manufacturing

Irish researchers develop new process for 3D printing bone tissue Irish researchers at AMBER, the Science Foundation Ireland funded materials science centre, hosted in Trinity College Dublin, have developed a new method for 3D printing large and complex bone structures. Image credit: Screenshot from the AMBER Centre Youtube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWBa8OWgApM&feature=youtu.be) This new 3D printing technique could be the key to regenerating and repairing large defects caused by tumour resections, infections, trauma, as well as inherited bone deformities. This novel bio printing method will also have a myriad of applications in head, jaw and spine surgery, as well as hip and knee replacements. In other words, the new process could eliminate the need for bone grafts and it consists of using 3D bio printing technology to fabricate cartilage templates which have been shown to assist the growth of a complete bone organ. “This is new approach to tissue and organ engineering and we’re very excited. 3D bio printing is a rapidly expanding area in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. While the technology has already been used to engineer relatively simple tissues such as skin, blood vessels and cartilage, engineering more complex and vascularised solid organs, such as bone, is well beyond the capabilities of currently available bio printing technologies,” said Professor Daniel Kelly, Investigator at AMBER and Director of the Trinity College Centre for Bioengineering. “Our research offers real hope in the future for patients with complex bone trauma or large defects following removal of a tumour. In addition, this bio printing approach could also be used in the development of the next generation of biological implants for knee and hip replacements. Our next stage of this process is to aim to treat large bone defects and then integrate the technology into a novel strategy to bio print new knees.” Click here to read the full paper on this amazing novel 3D bio printing technique. Check out the short video below. Australian Manufacturing

New Siemens study outlines strategy to help Adelaide become world’s first carbon neutral city Siemens has released a new study which details the pathways to transforming Adelaide into the world’s first carbon neutral city. Image credit: corporate.siemens.com.au The report, which was conducted with Siemens’ proprietary City Performance Tool, outlines several key points that will support Adelaide’s transition to a zero net emissions economy. It states that coordinated action by the city and state can yield deep cuts in emissions. “Investments in the building, transport and energy sectors can help Adelaide reduce CO2 emissions by a further 56% by 2025 compared to a business as usual scenario,” reads the report. “Local and State level governments both influence these sectors and must therefore continue to coordinate their efforts in investing or incentivising technology implementation in order to benefit from these potential savings.” It also recommends more robust decarbonisation policy spanning energy, buildings and transport. “Although investments in renewable energy in the State have been unprecedented, building floor area growth and hence energy demand in the City of Adelaide have offset some of the emission reductions arising from decarbonisation of the city’s electricity supply,” it says in the study. “Whilst the recent closure of the state’s last coal-fired power station and future large scale renewable investments will further drive down electricity intensity, city and state governments must influence the energy performance and solar installations of buildings and drive a mobility future based on heavy investment in low emission vehicles and increasing shifts to public transit.” The report identifies the commercial sector as largest source of emissions in Adelaide and one the city and state governments can most directly influence and regulate. “With new programmes such as the introduction of Building Upgrade Finance being rolled out in 2017, the city can benefit from over 15% savings in buildings related emissions through just five building technologies modelled in this study,” read the study. “These same building technologies can deliver over 60% savings of buildings related emissions based on a scenario with heavier investments to further clean the electricity mix.” Siemens said the study modelled potential savings in the transport sector based on two scenarios, the first of which focuses on public transport and the second on low emission vehicles. “The first, a mobility future based on low emission vehicles with medium public transport investment delivering 47% savings in transport related emissions,” it says in the study. “The second, a future with higher public transport / lower uptake of low emission vehicles, delivering over 38% savings in transport related emissions.” According to the study, the implementation of the above mentioned measures could lead to the creation of thousands of jobs in Adelaide. “By cutting emissions by as much as 56% over the next decade, the City of Adelaide can also contribute to the state’s transition to a low carbon economy,” the report states. “Our report has calculated a large gross employment benefit of nearly 23,000 full time equivalent jobs in installation, operation and maintenance jobs in low carbon energy, public transport mobility and buildings systems spread over the next decade in the Greater Adelaide area.” The study was conducted using Siemens’ proprietary City Performance Tool, which provides city managers and planners a unique view of their city and helps identify areas of greatest need and effectiveness for better resource allocation. The tool analysed over 700 data inputs from transport, energy and building sectors and over 70 technologies currently in use in the city to accurately forecast the impact of urban infrastructure technologies. “Siemens has a long and proud history in South Australia. We helped transform South Australia with the telegraph line 144 years ago. We’ve continued a great technology partnership and now we’re proud to help Adelaide transition to the world’s first carbon neutral city,” said Mr Roland Busch, member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG. “Adelaide joins leading cities such as San Francisco, Vienna, Copenhagen, and London in adopting a holistic approach for prioritising future infrastructure needs based on its long-term economic and environmental goals.” Australian Manufacturing

Alcoa and Alumina Limited announce changes to AWAC Joint Venture Alcoa and Alumina Limited have agreed to make changes to the Alcoa World Alumina and Chemicals (AWAC) joint venture that will increase value for the two companies and their respective shareholders. Image credit: Alcoa Twitter page Alcoa said the JV partners have agreed to end their legal action relating to its pending separation into two independent, publicly traded companies. According to the company, the changes to the joint venture agreements are intended to “align more closely the partners’ interests in AWAC”, while establishing greater strategic flexibility and autonomy for both partners. The changes, to be effectuated upon the completion of Alcoa’s separation, will affect the governance and financial policies of the joint venture and promote faster decision-making, joint input on significant decisions, improved information sharing and a more streamlined process for resolving disputes. They will also simplify AWAC’s dividend and cash management policies and require that AWAC raise a limited amount of debt to fund future mutually agreed growth projects. Under the amendments to the AWAC Joint Venture, in the event of a change of control of either partner in the future, opportunities for the AWAC partners to engage in expansion and development projects would increase, with each partner having the right to proceed unilaterally with an expansion or development project inside the joint venture if the other partner chooses not to participate. “A partner that avails itself of such an opportunity would pay for the costs related to the project, including for AWAC resources and shared facilities used, and be entitled to that project’s resulting off-take,” Alcoa said in a press release. “In addition, upon a change of control, the exclusivity and non-compete restrictions under the current joint venture agreements would terminate, and be replaced by rights of first offer on expansions and other development projects that either party may choose to undertake outside of the joint venture.” Further, if a change of control of Alumina were to occur in the future, off-take rights for alumina and bauxite would be triggered. “For example, if an industrial acquirer became the new partner in AWAC it would be entitled to buy alumina and bauxite at market prices for that partner’s internal consumption,” reads the press release. “In addition, that future partner would also be entitled to buy 1 million tons of alumina at market prices for resale into the market. This could have the effect of establishing a strategic joint venture partner and long-term customer for AWAC.” Roy Harvey, President of Alcoa’s Global Primary Products and future CEO of Alcoa, said the changes create a true win-win situation for the AWAC joint venture, the future Alcoa Corporation, and its shareholders, “We are strengthening our partnership agreement and more closely aligning the partners’ interests. We are also establishing a broader set of value-creating options for AWAC by providing its owners with greater strategic flexibility,” Mr Harvey said. “Among other benefits, this opens the door for an industrial partner to enter the joint venture, and like Alcoa, to become a long term customer for bauxite and alumina. Alcoa looks forward to completing our separation, launching two strong companies later this year, and to working closely with Alumina to realise the full potential of the AWAC partnership.” Australian Manufacturing

Bottom-up innovation program sees Volgren build better bus body in half the time The influx of cheap overseas imports has always been one of the biggest challenges facing Australian manufacturers, who work in a high cost environment and therefore must find other ways to drive costs down to remain competitive on the international market. Image provided Victorian bus body manufacturer Volgren is a good example of how an Australian company can cope with these challenges by thinking outside the box and getting creative. Faced with the prospect of a five-fold increase in bus imports into the country, the once-family owned manufacturer set the goal of halving the time to manufacture a bus body, while challenging employees to improve the overall safety, quality and delivery of their buses. Volgren CEO, Peter Dale, who led the bottom-up innovation program, said the company not only needed to become more productive, but also to completely rethink the end product in order to stay afloat. “Five years ago, it took us 1,000 hours to produce a bus body. We could see that without dramatic changes we were going to be squeezed out of the market,” Mr Dale said. “We set the target of building a bus body in ten days, or 500 hours, which at the time was hard for employees to conceive. But training people at all levels of the business to question process efficiency and to look for opportunities to save time or costs meant we were able to achieve the goal in just four years.” The finished product, called the Optimus bus, was designed in collaboration with Monash University. Composed out of an aluminium frame with Volgren’s unique Co-BOLT technology, the bus is not only lighter, stronger and safer than steel-framed buses, but it also reduces lifetime costs by about $100,000. Volgren, which has manufacturing plants in Victoria, Western Australia and Brisbane, is responsible for close to two in every three route buses sold in Australia and builds roughly 10 bus bodies a week. “Looking at a bus operator’s bottom line, it’s not about price, it’s about the lowest cost of total ownership,” Mr Dale said. “Our strategy is about producing safe, high-quality buses with the lowest whole-of-life costs, reducing the need for constant bus repairs and improving regular maintenance.” He said the company was backed by its majority owner, Marcopolo, to boost overseas exports of Australian-built bus bodies and bus kits into Asia. “We see enormous potential throughout Asia and with the backing of Marcopolo we’re in great position to get more involved in global markets and value chains,” Mr Dale added. “The interest we’ve had so far says a lot about the quality and compatibility of Volgren buses and Australia’s reputation and competitiveness within the broader bus building industry,” Dale said. Australian Manufacturing

Australian PMI®: Australian manufacturing slips to contraction after 13 months Australia’s manufacturing sector slumped in August for the first time in 13-months, breaking its longest period of continued growth in more than a decade. Image credit: FreeDigitalPhotos The Australia Industry Group (AiG) performance of manufacturing index (PMI) recorded a sharp decline to 46.9 in August after surging to 56.4 in July. According to Ai Group’s report, six of the seven manufacturing activity sub-indexes contracted in August, with production (down 9.4 points to 43.0), employment (down 11.9 points to 44.6), exports (down 14.8 points to 44.7), deliveries (down 16.4 points to 46.2) and sales (down 14.1 points to 45.7) all slipping from expansionary results in July. Food, beverages & tobacco (down 4.0 points to 48.7) joined textiles & clothing (down 1.8 points to 46.3) below the 50 points mark – which separates expansion from contraction – whereas new orders continued to grow in August, albeit at a slower pace (down 7.3 points to 51.5) than in July. The good news is that five of the eight manufacturing sub-sectors remained in expansion including printing & recorded media (up 6.4 points to 63.6), metal products (up 1.1 points to 55.9), petroleum & chemical products (down 2.5 points to 54.8), non-metallic mineral products (down 3.3 points to 53.6) and wood & paper products (down 7.6 points to 52.0). Additionally, the input prices (down 0.3 points to 58.7) and wages (down 3.5 points to 56.2) sub-indexes remained strong, while selling prices reversed slipped by 4.4 points to 50.3. “At 46.9 the August result for the Australian PMI® is the lowest since June 2015 when it was 44.2 points. These low results ‘bookend’ a run of 13 months of expansion (July 2015 to July 2016 inclusive). A sharp fall in food & beverages in August, which had been the mainstay of recent growth, was a major factor in the correction seen in manufacturing activity. Conditions also deteriorated for manufacturers of non-metallic mineral products and the recent growth spurt in the metals products sub-sector came to an end,” said Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox. “For manufacturing as a whole, despite gains in a number of other sub-sectors, production, sales, employment and stocks all fell in August. Continued growth in new orders is a ray of optimism for a sector keen to avoid this correction becoming a downturn. The continuing patchiness both of the manufacturing sector and the broader economy underscores the importance of lifting confidence and improving policy settings in areas such as workplace relations, taxation and budgetary policy.” Australian Manufacturing

ARENA funding cuts will stifle clean technologies development, Minister says South Australian Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis has called on the Federal Parliament to prevent cuts to ARENA funding proposed as part of the Federal Government’s Savings (Omnibus) Bill 2016. Image credit: http://arena.gov.au/ Commenting on the matter, the Minister said that cutting ARENA’s funds would “stifle innovation” in the development of clean technologies and inhibit the country’s transition to a stable, carbon constrained National Electricity Market. “These are dangerous and frankly perplexing cuts from the Federal Government at a time when the nation is working hard to combine climate and energy policy and incentivise technological breakthrough in electricity generation,” Mr Koutsantonis said. “By cutting this funding the Federal Government will entrench existing generation technology and stifle advances in dispatchable renewable energy that Australia needs if it is to meet its carbon reduction commitments.” The Minister underlined ARENA’s importance in pushing innovation in the clean energy sector, adding that replacing grant funding with a loan scheme research and development of new technologies would be “too risky for proponents to pursue”. “ARENA also helps creates investment and jobs in this growing industry around Australia, and particularly in the North of South Australia,” Mr Koutsantonis added. “ARENA’s $1.3 billion in funds are an essential part of the solution to meeting Australia’s climate commitments and delivering a more stable National Energy Market as it transitions to a renewable future.” Australian Manufacturing

Creating synthetic wood manufacturing industry through 3D bio-printing Associate Professor David Leung from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand has been awarded Government funding to investigate the potential of 3D printing live plant cells for creating synthetic wood. Image credit: http://ift.tt/2cu3GKd The $255,000 funding – to be delivered over three years – will help Professor Leung create new synthetic wood manufacturing industry through 3D bio-printing live plant cells that could greatly reduce the need for tree harvesting. Professor Leung said his project – Enabling sustainable economic development with advanced additive manufacturing of wood – could unlock enormous economic potential in harnessing the enabling 3D-printing technology in product manufacturing. “Although challenging, there is potential to use live cells as an advanced manufacturing material in a yet-to-be invented, new industry,” Mr Leung said. He said the project’s main objective was to manufacture a non-living 3D structure that would act as replacement for wood and put an end to the destructive harvesting of trees. “Live eucalyptus tree cells will be prepared specifically for bio-printing. They will be physiologically primed in a 3D structure in the biotech lab at the University of Canterbury, without any genetic modification, to be capable of responding to the appropriate triggers for transformation into a principal wood cell called a tracheid,” Professor Leung explained. “The changes in the cells will be studied in relation to the characteristic morphological features and chemical properties of tracheids using various microscopic, histochemical staining and fluorescence techniques.” If successful, the research will be one of the most significant scientific advances towards the realisation of the potential of 3D printing, providing manufacturers with a new, sustainable and advanced biomaterial for developing niche products. Australian Manufacturing