Five-year Bell Bay energy agreement protects jobs and strengthens Tasmania’s industrial future
This agreement was an important outcome for Tasmania’s industrial economy.
Regional Insights Tour
Northern Tasmania | March 2025
Delivered by TMEC, Department of State Growth and University of Tasmania
From switchboards to pet food, cannabis to aluminium the Northern Regional Insights Tour delivered even more variety and new opportunites.
14 people across varied industries tour 6 different businesses with the opportunity to see how others have implemented new systems and ask questions in a relaxed environment.
Participants had identified year-round areas that they were interested in exploring as part of the tour.
These included:
• Approaches to automation across the businesses
• Lean processes and approaches towards implementation
• The opportunity to develop networks
• The opportunity to visit a diverse group of business
Overall delegates of this tour noticed just how much all of our industry businesses work together and are advancing automation. A big thank you to everyone involved. And here are who our delegates visited…
Progress Control & Engineering
The Progress Group are a leader within the switchboard industry. Providing proven quality, verified, in-house Australian design switchboards with knowledge and experience that has been trusted over the last 20 years of operation. With our workshop facilities in Tasmania and Western Australia providing CNC in-house fabrication of our verified compliant system to AS61439.”.
Participants commented on the opportunity to have one on one time to discuss the implementation of LEAN processes and culture leading in to workplace culture as well as their implementation and smart use of technology such as the 3D Printer as a drafting tool. They are very clear about 'sticking to their lane' and understanding their business with clarity and purpose. The utilise Miro for an online continuous improvement board that staff can engage with and sang the benefits of ISO accreditation as a strong market opportunity that has benefited the business.
CPT Engineering
CPT Engineering is a full-service manufacturing business, specialising in delivering complex, precision parts, prototypes and large projects. CPT Engineering Australia has the foresight and vision to invest in market leading technologies. Our new 3D Laser Cutting machine extends our capabilities as an engineering company, allowing us to produce solutions for any challenge, rapidly and efficiently, no matter the size. We provide Fabrication, CNC Machining, Architectural Metalwork, CAD/CAM, Sheet Metal, Repetition Engineering, Prototyping to industry & commercial enterprises across Australia. We exist to ensure local Australian manufacturing leads the world.
Members noted the automation of repetitive tasks and praised the site's cleanliness, clear walkways, and well-organised workstations. They acknowledged strong investment in equipment and the presence of lean processes, though it was unclear how staff were involved in continuous improvement.
Collaboration with other businesses, such as the creation of ‘KEEN’ to tackle workforce challenges, was seen as a strength. Members also highlighted diversification of the customer base and viewed the move from George Town to Scottsdale as a smart step to reduce risk and be closer to a key client.
Bell Bay Aluminium
On the world stage, our smelter is relatively small: but we have learned to use this to our advantage. We are flexible with our product development and interact closely with our customers. Innovation is at the core of who we are. We invest in world-leading technologies, and we continually look for new ways to do better. We strive to become more energy efficient, increase our productivity and reduce our use of natural resources.”
Members described Bell Bay Aluminium as a great Tasmanian business and were impressed by the scale of the facility. They noted the small number of people on site, reflecting a high level of automation or efficiency albeit that they employ over 500 staff and indirectly contribute to 1300 jobs for Tasmanians. The ongoing Lean journey, with its many stages, stood out, as did the mix of modern and traditional approaches across the site.
They praised the company’s collaboration with local businesses, strong safety culture, and long-term focus on workforce diversity, especially increasing female participation. While power consumption is significant, members recognised the company’s important role in supporting grid stability across Tasmania.
Cromary Automation
At Cromarty Automation, our passion is to solve our clients’ challenges, believing that clever engineering solutions make our world a better place in which to live. For more than 35 years, our team of engineers, technicians, support staff and managers have cracked some of the most challenging problems found in industrial-grade measurement, automation and control.
Members were impressed by Cromarty Automation’s innovative approach, particularly their collaborative robot (cobot) demonstrations, which showcased advanced technology operating safely without traditional safety cages. The team’s expertise and commitment to quality were evident, reflecting over 35 years of experience in automation and control solutions across Australia .
Cromarty’s B2B strategy focuses on building strong customer relationships rather than extensive marketing, fostering trust and tailored solutions . Their collaboration with the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council (TMEC) during COBOT Month aimed to educate industry and youth on the practical applications of cobots in the workplace.
Hale Farm
At Hale Farm, we are dedicated to redefining the standard of cannabis for our Australian patients. Our commitment to locally grown, high-quality products reflects our deep passion and unwavering belief in the power of transparency and integrity. We strive to create a friendly, supportive environment, ensuring that every plant we nurture and every product we offer meets the highest standards of excellence. Join us in our mission to cultivate a brighter, healthier future, one plant at a time.
Members described Hale Farm as an “awesome” and agile business, impressed by its iterative approach—prototyping and refining before scaling. They noted the clear strategic focus and thoughtful planning behind the operation, as well as the deep expertise and passion demonstrated by founder Cade.
The business was also commended for its collaboration with other Tasmanian cannabis producers to support industry growth. Diversification in its product range was seen as a strength, helping to sustain core staff year-round. Members appreciated Hale Farm’s strong understanding of regulatory requirements, especially how it has developed compliant processes that also maximise operational flexibility—such as clearly defining what occurs inside and outside the gated growing area.
Nature's Best
We are Australian-owned and operated, with over 30 years of experience in the pet industry. We specialise in providing premium pet food, treats and accessories for all pets, from dogs and cats to birds, small animals and aquariums. As a division of Pet Solutions International, Australia’s most vertically integrated pet company, we are committed to meeting the diverse needs of the Australian pet industry.
Members commended Nature’s Best for its efficient facility layout and lean operations, noting the impressive implementation of automated production lines that reduce manual handling. The adoption of collaborative robotics (cobots) further enhances workplace safety and efficiency. Despite operating with a lean team, the company maintains high productivity across its two sites in greater Launceston.
Nature’s Best is a diversified business with a compelling origin story, offering multiple revenue streams. Its Australian-made products are manufactured in Tasmania and supported by warehouse facilities in Tasmania, Victoria, and Queensland.
Sparked some interest?
2026 Emergency Response Competition
Cement Australia, Cornwall Coal will host the 2026 Tasmanian Minerals Emergency Response Competition at their Fingal Site from Friday 16th and Saturday 17th October 2026.
TasPorts Industry Pathway Program
Thinking about a career change, returning to work or looking for stable local employment? Build practical skills, explore real workplaces and connect with employers through the TasPorts Industry Pathway Program.