Since officially kicking off the project, a major focus has been on establishing the foundations needed to successfully move the project forward. This has included progressing supplier agreements, finalising key contracts, and commencing the early design and collaboration phase with several new project partners. These early stages are critical in ensuring the project is built on strong operational partnerships, practical expertise, and a shared commitment to delivering long-term outcomes.
I’m pleased to share that we have now submitted Milestone 1 to ARENA for final approval. This milestone was originally due on 1 July, and thanks to the significant effort across the business, we were able to submit it on 18 May, well ahead of schedule. Achieving this milestone early reflects the collaboration, focus, and dedication shown by our organisation.
A key component of Milestone 1 was finalising supplier agreements and establishing the foundations required for the next phase of the project. As part of this process, we have officially signed contracts with Wainwright Engineering, who will be responsible for the conveyor systems, and Vacuum Lifting Australia, who will support the project with lifting and handling solutions designed to help automate key parts of the process.
An important consideration throughout the supplier selection process was the decision to partner with experienced local Australian companies. Supporting local industry was a key factor in our decision-making, not only because of the value it brings to the broader manufacturing and engineering sector, but also because of the practical advantages that come from working closely with highly experienced partners who understand local operations, safety requirements, and project delivery expectations.
Wainwright brings decades of engineering and conveyor system expertise, with a strong reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality material handling solutions across a range of industries. Their experience and collaborative approach have already been evident during the early design and planning stages, and their involvement will play an important role in developing systems focused on productivity, efficiency, and long-term operational performance.
Similarly, Vacuum Lifting Australia brings extensive specialist knowledge in vacuum lifting and material handling technology. With years of experience delivering lifting solutions to Australian industry, their expertise will help support safer and more efficient handling processes throughout the project. Their systems will contribute to reducing manual handling requirements while helping improve workflow efficiency and operational safety across multiple stages of the process.
Alongside these partnerships, we’ve also made the project’s first major equipment purchase: a MOBILIFT Portable Mobile Jib & Vacuum Lifter. This equipment will support multiple stages of the operation and represents an exciting step toward bringing the overall process together.
Internally, there has also been a huge amount of work taking place across multiple areas of the business. The team has been actively workshopping layouts, refining operational processes, and exploring new ideas aimed at maximising productivity and efficiency as the project develops. It has been exciting to see how quickly the scope and opportunities are evolving as momentum continues to build.
This is only the beginning, and it’s been fantastic to see the level of collaboration and engagement across the business as we continue building toward the next phase of the project.
More updates and milestones will be shared in future monthly updates as progress continues.
