By Rowan Forster
A major player in Australia’s plastic manufacturing industry will expand to a new Pakenham facility and triple its workforce, supported by a $1.8 million State Government cash injection.
Melbourne Rotomould – based in Bormar Drive – will operate out of a new 5000 square metre warehouse near Racecourse Road, hiring 95 additional staff to join its 40 current employees.
Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll toured the facility on Thursday, spruiking the achievements of company directors Tim Leed and Steven Kyval.
“This 5000 square metre warehouse will become a thriving local business centre,” Mr Carroll said.
“The growth in Victorian manufacturing is a reality, which (Melbourne) Rotomould has demonstrated with its new factory and expansion in product range and capability.”
“Congratulations to Steve and Tim – these two young men have an entrepreneurial spirit.”
He also acknowledged the company’s contribution towards environmental sustainability, with one of its marquee products being water tanks.
Manufacturing products such as water and chemical storage tanks, moulded bus shelters, noise walls and sewerage systems – the new jobs will be suitable for a range of skill levels, including auto workers and engineers.
The funding was allocated under the Andrews Government’s Local Industry Fund for Transition, which has splashed $120 million on the state’s manufacturing industry.
Company co-director Tim Leed said the timing of the funding made all the difference.
He hopes the facility will be operational in a six month timeframe.
“It has accelerated job creation and enabled us to take opportunities and create new products,” Mr Leed said.
“It’s critical we have the space and the machines to get the job done.
“Customers don’t want their products in two years, they want it now.”
Mr Leed told the Gazette he recently hired a chemical engineer with a PhD to streamline operations, demonstrating the diversity in jobs on offer.
Both Mr Leed and Mr Carroll touted the company’s benefit for the local economy, with Melbourne Rotomould using their own trucks, buying materials locally and employing workers from Melbourne’s south-east.
The industry contributes $27.7 billion to the Victorian economy.
