Sunshine Coast caravan manufacturer ZoneRV has expanded its production with the purchase of the largest 3D printer in Australia after receiving a Made in Queensland grant of $1.16 million.
The announcement comes in celebration of Queensland Manufacturing Month, which aims to draw attention to the state’s leading manufacturers and feature a range of events showcasing the sector’s capabilities.
The grant was won in 2021 as part of Made in Queensland Round 4 and has helped the company to expand capacity and create 99 new positions in order to fulfil consumer demand.
In a media statement, the government revealed ZoneRV’s acquisition will boost the manufacture of parts for caravan structures.
ZoneRV also purchased a 50mW laser template projector, a 5-axis CNC machining and spraying system, a 3D scanner, and a fibreglass cutting machine.
Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said ZoneRV developed their business and gave 99 people stable jobs through the Made in Queensland funding, adding that this is what the initiative is focused on.
“Made in Queensland gives manufacturers the practical and financial support they need to grow their business and create more good jobs,” he noted.
The minister added, “Queensland Manufacturing Month is about highlighting the fantastic local industry we have in our state, an industry that employs 180,000 Queenslanders.”
ZoneRV is also a featured exhibitor at the Inside Advanced Manufacturing event. During this two-week event, different manufacturers are invited inside the facility to discuss how advanced manufacturing can modernise and streamline production.
ZoneRV Director David Biggar expressed his delight in being part of the Inside Advanced Manufacturing event.
“It’s building connections with our peers and working collaboratively with other manufacturers to help the entire sector thrive. It’s great to be part of something like this,” Biggar remarked.
The guidelines for Made in Queensland Round 6 will be posted on the department’s website at the end of October, when applications will be accepted.
Over the past five years, the Made in Queensland program has generated more than $100 million in private sector investment while creating and retaining over 5,400 jobs across the state.
