Minister for Manufacturing David Hodgett has officially launched the new manufacturing plant of Bayswater company Revolution Fibreglass.
Established over 40 years ago, Revolution Fibreglass has reportedly undergone a period of rapid expansion under current owner Robert Miller, who acquired the company in 2006.
Mr Hodgett revealed the manufacturer can continue its growth and offer a larger range from the new facility.
“The new facility will give Revolution the space it needs to expand, grow and manufacture an even larger range of fibreglass products. It also will help the company with its plans to adopt a Resin Transfer Molding system that will be used to produce 95 per cent of Revolution’s products within two years,” Mr Hodgett said.
Since taking over the company, Mr Miller has grown the firm from two staff to 13, including two apprentices.
“The opportunities for composites in Australia is immense, with an almost infinite array of applications, especially with the focus on green, renewable and sustainable products, services and activities.” said Robert Miller.
The company manufactures a range of fibreglass products, including caravan components, slides, showers and shower bases, nose cones, automotive components and steam vacuum machines. Revolution Fibreglass also exports to America, England and Malaysia.
In a statement, Mr Hodgett congratulated Revolution for being at the forefront of skills development within the composites industry.
“In addition to its own two apprentices, Revolution is providing hands on training to a further seven students on behalf of the Kangan Institute and the Composites Trade Certificate III program. This new and innovative training program was introduced in 2013 in direct response to the manufacturing industry’s request for accredited skills and training,” Mr Hodgett said.
Commenting on the current climate of manufacturing in Victoria, Mr Hodgett has acknowledged the operating challenges facing the sector, but believes manufacturing grants could help businesses get through the tough times.
“I know that every day, manufacturing firms deal with a high Australian dollar, intense import competition, high energy costs and shifting consumer preferences.That is why the Victorian Coalition Government promotes a number of manufacturing-focused grants to help business innovate products, adopt new technologies and access new markets,” Mr Hodgett said.
For more information on Victorian Government business assistance isit http://www.business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-assistance
