- WA-based Gemco Rail to build iron ore railcar
wagons for Rio Tinto’s Pilbara mining operations - 100 wagons to be manufactured, maintained and
serviced at Forrestfield facility and at a planned new Karratha manufacturing
site - Cook Government invests $6.9 million to support
Gemco Rail through the Local Manufacturing Investment Fund - Six-year deal reflects Cook Government
commitment to diversifying the economy
In a significant milestone for local railcar manufacturing,
Perth-based company Gemco Rail will build 100 iron ore railcar wagons for
mining giant Rio Tinto.
Gemco Rail will deliver 100 wagons in total – 40
initially, and another 10 per year over the next six years – as well as
repairing and refurbishing key wagon componentry.
The Cook Government will assist Gemco Rail with $6.9
million in funding under the Local Manufacturing Investment Fund (LMIF) to
support the company’s railcar manufacturing capabilities.
The LMIF funding will be used by Gemco to upgrade its
Forrestfield facility and establish a new facility in Karratha.
The $15 million LMIF is part of an election commitment
to support local companies to enhance their competitiveness and provide an
effective service to this important market sector.
Rio Tinto’s commitment to use a local manufacturer
reflects the Cook Government’s commitment to boost local manufacturing, local
content and local jobs.
The first locally-built railcar is expected to be
delivered in mid 2024, while the Karratha-based facility is expected to be
established by the end of 2024.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
“My
Government is absolutely committed to rebuilding our local manufacturing
capability, and we’re getting on with the job of delivering on our commitment.
“Not
only will the agreement create jobs and diversify the economy, it will help
revitalise and future-proof local manufacturing in WA, including in the Pilbara.
“It will also reduce WA’s reliance on overseas
suppliers and helps our State become more self-sufficient.
“It’s a win for jobs, a win for the economy and
another step towards a stronger manufacturing sector in WA.”