In a significant boost for North Queensland's industrial future, Indigenous-owned company Wandarra has officially opened a major new advanced manufacturing facility in Townsville. The $10 million project is being hailed as the launchpad for a new sustainable manufacturing hub in the region.
A Strategic Investment in Townsville's Industrial Future
The new facility, located at 1/11 Mango Street in Garbutt, represents a strategic investment in local capability. Wandarra, a subsidiary of the Bana Yirriji Aboriginal Corporation, has developed the site to focus on sustainable and advanced manufacturing processes. The opening ceremony was a landmark event, attended by key stakeholders including representatives from the Queensland Government and local industry.
This development is not just about a new factory; it's about creating an ecosystem. The facility is designed to act as a central hub, fostering collaboration and innovation in green manufacturing. It will provide essential services and advanced production capacity for a range of sectors, with a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility.
Job Creation and Economic Diversification
The immediate and most tangible impact of the new Wandarra facility is on the local job market. The company has announced that the hub will create up to 50 new jobs for the Townsville community. These positions will span various skill levels, offering opportunities in trades, engineering, project management, and administration.
This injection of employment is a welcome development for the regional economy, providing skilled career paths and contributing to economic resilience. The focus on sustainable manufacturing also aligns with global trends and Australia's broader economic transition, positioning Townsville workers at the forefront of a growing industry.
Beyond direct employment, the hub is expected to stimulate activity for local suppliers and service providers, creating a multiplier effect throughout the North Queensland economy.
Building on a Legacy of Indigenous Enterprise
The project is deeply rooted in Indigenous enterprise and community benefit. Wandarra's parent organisation, the Bana Yirriji Aboriginal Corporation, represents the traditional owners of the Wulgurukaba and Bindal country on which Townsville stands. The success of this facility is seen as a direct contribution to the prosperity and self-determination of the local Indigenous community.
This model of development, which combines commercial acumen with cultural stewardship and sustainability, is being closely watched as a potential blueprint for similar projects elsewhere in Australia.
Positioning Townsville as a Green Manufacturing Leader
The opening of the Wandarra facility is a clear signal that Townsville is serious about capturing a share of the future green economy. By establishing a dedicated hub for sustainable manufacturing, the city aims to attract further investment and become a recognised centre for innovation in this field.
The hub's capabilities are expected to support industries such as renewable energy, resource technology, and infrastructure, all of which are critical to regional and national development goals. This move diversifies the local industrial base beyond traditional sectors, building a more robust and future-proof economy for North Queensland.
With its port access, skilled workforce, and now a flagship sustainable manufacturing hub, Townsville is strengthening its claim as a pivotal location for advanced industry in Northern Australia. The Wandarra facility is more than a building; it's a statement of intent for a greener, more innovative industrial future.
