By CASEY NEILL
MANUFACTURERS in Victoria are doing it tough – but it’s not all doom and gloom.
The industry’s best celebrated their success at the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame awards in Crown’s Palladium on Thursday 6 June.
Manufacturing Minister David Hodgett told the hundreds gathered that the evening was a celebration, but acknowledged recent and ongoing challenges.
“They’re doing it tough,” he said.
“But Victorian manufacturing is still one of our most significant industries.
“I get a little bit tired of people talking the industry down.
“It contributes $27 billion to our economy.”
The awards, in their 13th year, honoured 13 of the state’s most inventive, productive and resilient manufacturers.
Mr Hodgett said their creative solutions to manufacturing challenges had identified innovative pathways for a generation of new businesses to follow.
“These innovative companies are at the top of their game,” he said.
“Their productivity, creativity, energy and diversity confirm that our manufacturing industry is not only resistant to challenge but competes, creates and trades profitably in a variety of niche markets both here and overseas.”
Master of ceremonies Ed Phillips told guests they’d been “the backbone of the industry” and the best would be recognised for their contributions.
“All in the same room where they have the Logies,” he said.
The night’s theme was ’Strive. Drive. Thrive.’ and there was a focus on forging partnerships through networking and ongoing collaboration for increased success, innovation and sustainability.
