- New collaborative welding
robot (Cobot) unveiled at MAS Equipment's Kalgoorlie-Boulder workshop today
- 'Cobot' performs
manufacturing, strenuous maintenance and repair tasks, increasing the
businesses' capacity to service local mining industry
- MAS Equipment Pty
Ltd project supported by $85,000 Regional Economic Development (RED) grant
Regional
Development Don Punch unveiled a new high-tech robotic
welding assistant at MAS Equipment's West Kalgoorlie workshop today, supported through
the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant program.
The
new 'Cobot' will increase the business's capacity to service the mining
industry in the Goldfields, while minimising overall downtime and increasing
safety and productivity.
It
will also support more desirable job roles that require new skill sets,
creating opportunities for workers and making the industry more attractive.
The machine is programable to perform a multitude of welding tasks at a
consistently high level, guaranteeing quality manufacturing and production for
clients.
The project was supported by an $85,000 grant
through the Cook Government's RED Grants program.
During his visit to the Goldfields-Esperance
region, Minister Punch also gathered with other previous
RED grant recipients at a community event at Bread Local in Esperance.
Bread Local received $129,000 funding through the RED Grants program,
which supported the purchase of essential equipment and important upgrades to
infrastructure and facilities at the bakery.
Round 7 of the program
is due to open later this month. Local businesses or organisations with project
proposals are encouraged to contact the Goldfields-Esperance Development
Commission (GEDC) on 08 9080 5000 or at grants@gedc.wa.gov.au
Comments attributed to Regional Development
Minister Don Punch:
"The 'Cobot' project will bring broad
benefits to MAS Equipment's clients as well as the Goldfields mining industry,
through the introduction of automated manufacturing.
"The collaborative robot welding assistant
will increase quality, productivity and develop a skilled local workforce for
the future."
Comments attributed to
Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent:
"This fantastic manufacturing
project will bring new technology, innovation, and skills to the region, as
well as supporting increased productivity for our Goldfields mining industry.
"By supporting local
initiatives through the RED Grants program, the Cook Government is
demonstrating its commitment and support to diversifying small businesses and
enterprises in the region."
