The timing of BlueScope Steel chief executive Paul O’Malley’s recent visit to Wollongong could not have been better for the Illawarra Innovative Industry Network (i3net) as it prepares for its annual industry showcase.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
i3net executive officer Tony Green said the network of engineering and manufacturing related businesses congratulated BlueScope, its employees and others in the region who were involved with the successful adoption of Plan A.
Mr Green said that had played a significant role in the turnaround in profitability for the Port Kembla steel plant.
He said the visit by Mr O’Malley to outline the present position and future plans for the steelworks was a positive step for the Illawarra.
He said i3net was extremely pleased that BlueScope was now planning for operational requirements in 10 to 15 years because that shows a focus on the future for the region’s steel maker.
“This news will hopefully provide some confidence amongst the heavy industry sector in the region but there is still a lot more that can be done.” Mr Green said.
“The i3net again calls on all levels of government to consider a procurement policy that ensures a level playing field for Australian, and Wollongong based manufacturers across all government procurement. And that includes taking into consideration taxes paid by Australian companies when assessing project bids. Now is the time that all levels of government continue to work hard for this region to stop the increase in unemployment and ensure the provision of long term sustainable jobs for future generations.”
The Illawarra Innovative Industry Network’s annual industry showcase is on September 7 and 8 in Wollongong.
It is i3net's premier event and forms an integral part of the network’s Inspiring Illawarra Industry Growth and Sustainability mission.
The industry showcase is held annually to promote the region’s industry capability to state, national and international markets.
Delegates attending will represent ANSTO, Sydney Trains, Remondis, Bylong Coal, Worley Parsons, Heron Resources, Snowy Hydro, Vopac Terminals, Navantia, DCNS and Boeing Australia.
An industry showcase dinner is being held on September 7 in the Western Grandstand. It will provide an opportunity to hear from keynote speakers on important regional development topics and network with local, intrastate and interstate delegates.
There is also a member expo promoting industry capability in the Wollongong area.
That is being followed on Thursday morning by an industry dhowcase breakfast.
i3net stakeholders will give lightning presentations for delegates to learn more about local industry capability.
There will also be an industry tour of five i3net members as well as TAFE Illawarra Trades & Technology Faculty as part of the showcase.
Further information at www.i3net.com.au.
Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
