By Melissa Meehan
FROM THE car in your garage to air warfare destroyers, Frontline Australasia Pty Ltd is taking Dandenong knowhow and designs to the world.
The winner of this years’ Innovation Award manufactures and designs automotive accessories such as tow bars and nudge bars, military and commercial marine valves, and specialised marine systems such as helicopter landing systems, repair and overhaul operations.
Chief Executive Officer Kevin Hooper said the business boasted clients such as the Royal Australian Navy, Toyota, Ford and Holden to name a few.
He said the lengthy list of well-known companies on their books was due to the company’s capacity to produce and distribute quality products within prescribed time limits. Some 70% of the company’s business is from automotive projects and 30% defence.
“We have one of the most efficient manufacturing systems in the world,” he said.
“We have had people come in and teach us how to be more efficient.
“And from that we are picking up lots of extra work from Toyota.”
Generally seen by industry and government as innovative, Frontline now has over 130 employees and its turnover has grown more than 250% in the last seven years, now exceeding $50 million.
Mr Hooper said Frontline was committed to Dandenong given its access to a skilled workforce and proximity to transport.
“We want to contribute to make sure Dandenong is recognised as an industry leader now and in the future,” Mr Hooper said.
He said that the company was remaining strong against a bleak economic future as their competitors were falling by the way side.
“We are picking up new automotive and defence projects at the expense of other companies,” he said.
“Frontline strongly advocates that Australian industry doesn’t blame external forces, but shows internal leadership to stay competitive.”
