Creating jobs and products

IT may come as a surprise that manufacturing is leading jobs growth in Cairns.

But in our industrial heartland of Portsmith and surrounds there are many manufacturing businesses, from large shipbuilding operations to smaller outfits making products on lathes and the like.

Elsewhere in suburbia under Queenslanders and in backyard sheds there are quiet achievers such as engravers and woodworkers beavering away.

It’s amazing what is made in Cairns, everything from small boats and trailers, windows and security screens through to mattresses and health supplements.

We really do have a hive of activity and these manufacturers are employing many people, including tradesmen and women as well as sales and administration staff.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, manufacturing jobs grew by 2500 from February, 2013 to February this year to 8100, faster than healthcare or accommodation.

One business, Lazco Fabrications, is proof of the increase.

The Redden St steel fabricating business employs 18 people and has jobs lined up for months ahead.

Sales manager Stephen Lazarus says with big projects in the city more people were confidently spending more money.

Mission Beach analyst Pete Faulkner disputes the figures, saying his evaluation shows a drop in manufacturing and healthcare is the biggest improver.

While the Cairns region is mostly known for tourism, backed by a consistent agricultural sector, we are creators of manufactured goods too.

Something many people don’t realise or appreciate. Nick Dalton Deputy editor