NORTH Link partnered with Regional Development Australia (RDA) Melbourne and Gippsland to deliver a successful industry forum in Gippsland on 17 June 2025, aimed at strengthening the region’s manufacturing sector through innovation, strategic planning, and collaboration. Local Gippsland manufacturers were able to mix and exchange ideas with Melbourne’s North manufacturers visiting for the day.

Held at Safetech in Moe, the event brought together local manufacturers and industry leaders from across the region. A diverse program of expert speakers and case studies showcased practical insights on digital transformation, operational excellence, and future planning.

The forum was generously hosted by Lindsay Wakefield, Executive Director of Safetech, who welcomed guests to the facility and provided a valuable overview of Safetech’s operations. His insights into the company’s innovation journey and its commitment to local manufacturing excellence set the tone for the day.

Thank you to Kellie O’Callaghan, Chair of RDA Gippsland, who provided an informative overview of the role of Regional Development Australia and Regional Development Victoria in supporting economic development, regional investment, and strengthening local supply chains, highlighting the importance of events like this in fostering growth and collaboration.

Shaping the Digital Future: Integra Systems

Paul Hughes, Managing Director & CEO of Integra Systems, discussed the company’s digital transformation journey, including the development of the Integra K4.0 Kiosk—an advanced tool designed to enhance productivity, operational visibility, and informed decision-making within manufacturing environments. His presentation demonstrated how digital tools can act as strategic enablers for growth and competitiveness.

Operational Excellence in Practice: Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions (BAMS)

Paul McLoughlin from Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions shared Bosch’s successful shift in focus following the end of automotive manufacturing in Australia. The presentation detailed how Bosch embraced process improvement, change management, and smart automation to reposition itself, and how these same approaches can support other manufacturers to strengthen their operations and seize new market opportunities.

Securing the Future: Samantha Zebrowski, William Buck

Samantha Zebrowski, Principal at William Buck, delivered an important session on succession planning as a key component of business continuity and long-term value preservation. She outlined how manufacturers can take a proactive approach to leadership and ownership transitions—whether for family succession, management handover, or preparing a business for sale.

Her presentation covered practical steps such as identifying future leaders, aligning business and personal wealth planning, and ensuring governance and compliance. These strategies help reduce risk, improve business resilience, and set a strong foundation for growth beyond current ownership.

Building Community and Capability

The forum also offered participants opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and explore partnerships with service providers. Attendees appreciated the practical content and peer-to-peer learning, as well as the strong emphasis on future-focused leadership and industry collaboration.

Elise Erwin, Manager Regional Coordination at Regional Development Victoria, Gippsland, reflected on the strong level of engagement and noted that Gippsland’s manufacturing community is well-positioned to adopt new technologies, strengthen succession planning, and build stronger networks to support future growth.

NORTH Link thanks all presenters, attendees, and partners who made the event a success, with special thanks to Lindsay Wakefield for hosting the event at Safetech.