BIA NSW Manufacturers First Meeting
SIBS was the venue for the first meeting of the newly formed organization, the BIA NSW Manufacturers Division.
'Alan Steber proposed the new division and is the Manufacturers organisation's inaugural Chairman.'
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The meeting was chaired by Alan Steber, who was voted in as Chairman and Allan Barrett from the BIA to serve as Divisional Secretary.
'There were 12 manufacturers in attendance,' says Steber, 'And we made several resolutions. We are unanimous in looking forward to working with Australian-made products, brands and manufacturers in progressing our industry.'
The next meeting will be held in Wollongong, followed by Newcastle later in the year. 'There will be three meetings each year, one in Sydney, then one covering the south coast and one to the north,' says Steber.
'It was felt that the other states are better supported by Government and enjoy a better cohesion, whereas NSW has traditionally not been as pro-active. Our focus will be on the quality and competitiveness of Australian-made, and of course, marketing that.'
According to Alan Barrett, the organization will maintain 'a tight focus on issues directly affecting the boat manufacturers'.
'Such issues as raised included cheap imports and compliance there-of Government standards and regulation/ compliance; tight labor market and apprenticeship/ skills development concerns and the strong Australian dollar inhibiting exports.'
Strengths of the local manufacturing sector were identified as the ability to respond quickly to market and accommodate specific requirements, high skill levels and quality of product and the ability to build knowledge base through interaction.
The BMA intends to host guest speakers and welcomes participation from within the manufacturing sector. There are 35+ manufacturers on the roster for the Division.
More information Tel: (02) 9438 2077 or info@bia.org.au
by Jeni Bone 
redland bay, QLD
