By John Van Klaveren
A Geelong joinery has received a $230,000 grant under the Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund (GRIIF).
The grant for Pickering Joinery will aid a $530,000 expansion at its Belmont manufacturing facility, creating eight full time jobs.
The GRIIF is a tripartite agreement between the Australian Government, the Victorian Government and Ford Australia.
The fund was established following the announcement by Ford Australia that it will cease its vehicle and engine manufacturing operations in Australia from October 2016.
The Pickering grant is the second, after Carbon Revolution received $5million to create 108 jobs by expanding its carbon wheel manufacturing operations.
Five projects have been supported under the first round of the fund but the remaining successful grants have yet to be announced.
Federal member for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson and State Member for South Barwon Andrew Katos said the funds would allow Pickering Joinery to increase production to meet increased customer demand for its custom-made heritage and architectural timber windows and doors.
The project includes installing high-tech computer numerically controlled woodworking machinery, and re-designing the production process flow.
“Pickering Joinery is an example of a local small business that is creating the jobs of the future by expanding its manufacturing facility and investing in new machinery,” Ms Henderson said.
“As a result of the expansion, the company will train and employ joiners and apprentices, and delivery, sales and administrative staff. These positions are expected to be filled locally.”
Ford Australia president Bob Graziano said Ford many of the jobs to be created would be highly suitable for skilled workers from the automotive sector.
The second round of GRIIF is currently open and information sessions for potential applicants will be held on 1 and 2 April in Geelong.
