RAAF Pilot Completes First Training for Boeing MQ-28A Ghost Bat
Wing Commander Phil Parsons has made history as the first Royal Australian Air Force pilot trained to fly the Boeing MQ-28A Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Completing his training in June 2024, Parsons is now equipped to manage the launch, recovery, and in-flight operations of this advanced unmanned system. Developed and manufactured at Boeing’s Fishermans Bend site, the MQ-28A Ghost Bat is a cutting-edge unmanned aircraft designed to enhance air combat operations through intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Since its maiden flight in February 2021, the Ghost Bat has exemplified advanced aerospace engineering. Boeing’s Fishermans Bend facility, a hub of innovation since 1927, continues to be pivotal in advancing Australia’s defence capabilities.
Vote Now: Fishermans Bend Digital Innovation Challenge!
The Fishermans Bend Digital Innovation Challenge Pitch Night was a tremendous success, showcasing three visionary projects with the potential to revolutionize our community. The finalists, Melbourne EcoSound Initiative by FutureLabs, Upsoil Collective by Zoe Wang, and Mia Mias Micro Materials Bank by Commune and Co / Cirque du Soil —each presented unique solutions, from ecoacoustic sensors to innovative worm farming and micro-recycling hubs. The next step is up to you: voting is now open to decide which initiative will be awarded the $90,000 grant for a trial run in Fishermans Bend in 2025. This is your chance to contribute to a project that promises a more sustainable future for Fishermans Bend. Make sure to cast your vote by 11:59 PM AEST on Thursday, 29 August. Photo by Long Story Short.
Building Engineering Wins Excellence Award for Fishermans Bend Project
Congratulations to the team at Building Engineering, who have been recognised at the 2024 Master Builders Association of Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards, winning the Excellence in Civil Construction Under $10M award for their outstanding work on the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct – Plant 18 Phase 2 Early Works project. The project, carried out on behalf of Development Victoria and the Victorian Government, was a pivotal part of Fishermans Bend’s development. It involved the intricate construction of an advanced substation and main switch room, strategically positioned to enable a new point of electrical supply to Plant 18 from Todd Road. This award is a testament to their dedication and skill in advancing the infrastructure within the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct.
CitySwitch Green Office: Free Program for Reducing Environmental Footprints
CitySwitch is a complimentary program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions specifically for office-based businesses in the City of Port Phillip. It invites businesses to join a network of over 213 members across more than 700 office tenancies nationwide, all working towards achieving 'net zero' emissions. The program provides office-based businesses with free support, tools, resources, and access to events, while also facilitating connections with other businesses committed to similar environmental goals. This initiative supports businesses in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance their sustainability practices.
Energy incentives and instant asset write-off for small businesses
Small businesses can benefit from two recent changes introduced by the Australian Tax Office. Firstly, they are eligible for a bonus 20 percent tax deduction on spending that supports more efficient energy use. This initiative is designed to encourage investment in energy-saving measures. Additionally, businesses can take advantage of the instant asset write-off for eligible assets costing less than $20,000. Both of these changes apply to costs incurred from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, providing substantial opportunities for small businesses to reduce their tax liabilities while investing in operational improvements.
Aboriginal Business Growth Program
The Aboriginal Business Growth Program offers grants between $10,000 and $100,000 (excluding GST) to support the growth and development of Aboriginal-owned and operated businesses in Victoria. Applications for this program are open until Friday, 6 September 2024. Eligible businesses are encouraged to reach out to their local Aboriginal business support organisation for assistance with the application process, ensuring they can fully benefit from this opportunity to advance their business objectives.
Committee for Melbourne Backs Docklands’ Freight Bridge
The Committee for Melbourne has defended its support for a controversial freight rail bridge near Docklands, arguing that it would reduce road congestion and carbon emissions while maintaining Melbourne's status as a freight hub. The proposed freight rail link, connecting the Port of Melbourne’s Swanson Dock facilities west of Docklands, to Webb Dock by the mouth of the Yarra, via a low river crossing adjacent to the Bolte Bridge, faces local opposition due to its impact on Victoria Harbour. Committee CEO Mark Melvin emphasised that the project, part of the Port of Melbourne's long-term strategy, is crucial for supply chain resilience and efficient freight movement.
Port of Melbourne Acquires Additional Land in Strategic Lease Deal
Port of Melbourne has secured a long-term lease on 29 hectares of the former Melbourne Markets site, extending until 2066. The expansion, in line with the state's Freight Plan, aims to support Victoria’s supply chain by enhancing port functions and improving traffic flow. The development is part of ongoing efforts to maintain Melbourne’s position as a key trade gateway. The lease agreement is subject to final conditions expected to be met by the end of 2024.
Federal Grant Fuels ACS Australia's Advancements in Hypersonic Materials
Fishermans Bend locals, Advanced Composite Structures Australia, ACS Australia, has significantly advanced its production of ultra-high temperature composites for hypersonic and space vehicles, supported by a $400k Federal Government grant. With new investments in cutting-edge equipment, ACS Australia has automated complex manufacturing processes, enhancing precision and reducing costs. These developments position the company to better serve the defence and space industries with high-performance components. Read more in the new article by The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) at the link below.
