The Gold Coast’s manufacturing sector is back in the fast lane, with iconic bus builder BusTech officially opening its brand-new facility in Yatala.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate will be on site to officially cut the ribbon this morning, marking a triumphant homecoming for a company with deep local roots spanning more than three decades.
The move back to the region follows a turbulent period that saw BusTech fall into administration and temporarily relocate to a smaller base in Brisbane.
After being rescued by the GoZero Group last year, the manufacturer is not only returning home but is also scaling up its operations with projections to build around 10 buses a month and ramp up to a full capacity of 120 to 200 public transport vehicles each year.
The expansion is also anticipated to create approximately 100 direct jobs, along with numerous apprenticeship and supply chain opportunities.
GoZero Group Managing Director Stephen Cartwright said BusTech has a proud history with the Gold Coast, and is excited to help drive it into its next chapter.
“We’re bringing back a bigger and better bus builder to Yatala, creating around 100 jobs, which brings money and business to the area,” Mr Cartwright said.
“This new manufacturing facility will help us build any bus the customer wants, including the Euro 6 public transport buses which we’ve been manufacturing at our smaller factory in Brisbane.
“The buses that will drive out of this factory will be world-class public transport assets built by skilled local tradies for Queensland passengers.
“Our goal is to build a strong manufacturing operation in Queensland and create lasting opportunities for local workers, apprentices and suppliers”.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate also welcomed the manufacturer’s return to the city.
“Welcome home to BusTech. It’s great to see a company with such strong Gold Coast roots returning to our city,” Mayor Tate said.
“Manufacturing and advanced manufacturing are priority industries for the Gold Coast because they create skilled jobs, support local businesses and help diversify our economy.
“We’re supporting BusTech’s move back to the city to help it grow its workforce, create apprenticeships and connect with local suppliers as production ramps up.”
