WA Regional Development Minister Don Punch recently revealed a cutting-edge robotic welding assistant at MAS Equipment’s West Kalgoorlie workshop.
The innovative ‘Cobot,’ supported by the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant program, is set to revolutionise the business’s capacity to service the mining industry in the Goldfields while enhancing safety, productivity, and job opportunities.
The ‘Cobot’ is designed to perform a variety of welding tasks with precision and efficiency, ensuring high-quality manufacturing and production for clients.
This new technology will not only increase MAS Equipment’s competitiveness in the industry but also contribute to the upskilling of workers, making the mining sector more appealing to job seekers.
Minister Punch highlighted the broader benefits of the ‘Cobot’ project, as he stated: “The collaborative robot welding assistant will increase quality, productivity, and develop a skilled local workforce for the future.”
The project received an $85,000 grant through the WA government’s RED Grants program, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting innovative initiatives in regional areas.
Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent praised the project, noting its potential to bring new technology, innovation, and skills to the region.
“By supporting local initiatives through the RED Grants program, the WA government is demonstrating its commitment and support to diversifying small businesses and enterprises in the region,” she said.
In addition to the unveiling of the ‘Cobot,’ Minister Punch joined previous RED grant recipients at a community event at Bread Local in Esperance.
Bread Local received $129,000 in funding through the RED Grants program, which supported essential equipment purchases and infrastructure upgrades at the bakery.
Round 7 of the RED Grants program is set to open later this month, inviting local businesses and organisations with project proposals to apply.
Interested parties can contact the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission (GEDC) for more information.
The introduction of the ‘Cobot’ represents a significant step forward for MAS Equipment and the Goldfields mining industry, showcasing the potential of automation and innovation in driving economic growth and development in regional Western Australia.