Toowoomba-based cattle equipment manufacturer, Leicht’s CIA, is set to enhance efficiency and generate up to six full-time jobs through the adoption of agricultural technology, thanks to a Rural Economic Development (RED) Grant.
Leicht’s CIA Embraces Ag Tech, Creating Jobs with RED Grant
The company’s Managing Director, Mark Leicht, revealed plans to implement specialised laser cutting equipment and an automated welding robot, aiming to streamline production processes.
The robotic welder is expected to significantly reduce the manufacturing time for items like drop-down doors, enhancing productivity and overcoming challenges posed by current labour shortages.
Mark emphasised the strategic move towards automation, allowing the workforce to focus on structural manufacturing, particularly in the production of cattle crushes.
When will it start?
Scheduled to be operational next year, the new technology is made possible by the RED Grant, accelerating the project by a couple of years, according to Mark Leicht.
Leicht’s CIA is among the 24 businesses selected for the fifth round of the RED grants program, with a total funding of $3.9 million.
This round is anticipated to create up to 215 direct, long-term jobs across various sectors.
RED Grants program
The RED Grants program, initiated by the Palaszczuk Government over five years, has provided a total of $13.3 million in funding to support 59 successful regional agribusiness projects, contributing to a substantial economic impact and the creation of over 2,500 new direct and indirect jobs.
For further details about the RED Grant scheme, visit the RED Grant scheme page.
The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) administers the RED Grant scheme on behalf of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
