Three projects in Western Australia’s Goldfields-Esperance region have been awarded a total of $555,000 in funding through the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program’s sixth round.
This initiative, part of the government’s commitment to investing $50.85 million over nine years, aims to support locally-driven projects in local construction and manufacturing, enhancing regional business resilience and economic diversification.
Kai Rho Contracting, a business in the Northern Goldfields, will utilise its $235,000 grant to acquire a dual-cab grader, primarily for civil projects.
The funding will also facilitate the training of new grader operators, addressing the growing road network demands in the area.
This project is expected to lead to job creation, skills development within the local workforce, and opportunities for Aboriginal skill development and procurement.
Bedford Harbour Engineering Pty Ltd has received $235,000 to purchase and install overhead cranes at its new facility in the Shark Lake Industrial Park near Esperance.
This investment will enable local manufacturing of a broader range of agricultural equipment and products, including larger silos.
The expanded production will cater to local needs and serve the wider Western Australian market.
MAS Equipment Pty Ltd will leverage its $85,000 grant to acquire a collaborative robot welding assistant, often referred to as a ‘cobot,’ which will handle maintenance and repair tasks at their Kalgoorlie-Boulder workshop.
This automation technology is expected to position the Goldfields at the forefront of new industries and create jobs in the emerging economy, fostering innovation and improving the region’s capacity to provide local industry services while increasing overall productivity.
Regional Development Minister Don Punch mentioned that the RED Grants program for this year aims to finance local projects that introduce new technology, foster innovation, and enhance skills within the region.
“The funding will be used to purchase new manufacturing equipment that will deliver new jobs, new products, industry diversification, and skills development,” Punch stated.
He continued, “The RED Grants continue to support local businesses and organisations to adapt, develop, grow and diversity to better service regional communities”.
Meanwhile, Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent expressed her enthusiasm for the diverse range of projects benefiting from RED funding this year, emphasising their potential to prosper and contribute to the region’s growth and diversification.
“By supporting these local initiatives, the Cook Government is demonstrating its commitment and support to diversifying small businesses and enterprises in the region,” Kent noted.
