SEMMA”s Paul Dowling, Richard Della-Riva (Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, Minister for Manufacturing, Exports and Trade and State Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region), SEMMA President Lyndon Joss, Mitch Fifield (Liberal Senator for Victoria) and Ryan Smith (Liberal Minister for Environment and Climate Change). 85050
By NICOLE WILLIAMS
MANUFACTURING in the south-east has been given a boost with South East Melbourne Manufacturing Alliance leading a new development project.
The announcement was made by Faith Fitzgerald, deputy chairwoman of Regional Development Australia Southern Melbourne, at SEMMA’s annual general meeting on Tuesday.
SEMMA will front the project, which is designed to provide long-term support to local manufacturers
One key of the project will be to help struggling manufacturers benefit from successful manufacturers, particularly in similar sectors.
“It will develop new manufacturing skills, ideas and innovation,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“SEMMA is in the chair leading and we look forward to the results of the work.”
SEMMA executive officer Paul Dowling said it would be a huge project with huge benefits for manufacturers.
“It’s a journey and SEMMA’s role is purely to facilitate,” he said.
“Manufacturers helping manufacturers is key to the project.”
SEMMA president Lyndon Joss said some manufacturers in the south-east were thriving and others were struggling.
“This year has been one of highs and lows. Some members thrived while others found it tough,” he said.
“Knowing where we are and where we’re going will be a great strength.”
Mr Dowling also announced other upcoming projects for SEMMA including a group deal for manufacturers to apply for the Green Technology Grants program, a new labour sharing program and a stand at the 2013 AusTech Exhibition in Melbourne.
The SEMMA board for 2012 was also elected with the officers positions remaining unchanged.
Lyndon Joss will remain as president, Simon Whiteley remains vice-president, Tom Flintoff as treasurer and Sandra George as secretary.
For the first time in SEMMA history, there were more nominations for the nine ordinary member positions and it was decided by secret ballot.
Todd Hartley, Andrew Meek, Greg Northrop, Frank Scotta, Martin Solomon, Peter Stone, James Sturgess, Jill Walsh and Michael Waterson make up the ordinary members.
