Local business leaders will today deliver a strong message to the major contractors bidding for the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam project - that they have the experience and capability to assist in the delivery of this major project. Australia’s top construction firms are meeting at the University of Sunshine Coast to discuss the local business capability for the construction of the proposed dam project. Representatives from the five major consortium, including Abigroup/John Holland, Macmahon, Leighton, Thiess and Baulderstone Hornibrook, will be joined by local business leaders, academics from the University of Sunshine Coast and the CEO of Queensland Water Infrastructure Pty Ltd (QWI) to discuss potential opportunities. Local business leader and Chairman of AIEM, Kerren Smith, will argue that the region has a diversity of business types and capability to assist in all facets of the dam’s construction. “The region has a lot to offer the major contractors with a rich diversity of skills, expertise and equipment,” Mr Smith said. “By utilising local suppliers, major contractors will also be able to achieve significant cost savings through reduction in transportation costs and travel times.” In January, more than 130 businesses attended a business forum in Gympie to gain a better understanding of how they can prepare their businesses ready for potential opportunities associated with the project. More than 20 AIEM forums have been held in the last six months, and were well attended by local businesses. “Businesses are now securing their blue cards, up-skilling their employees and undertaking training to ensure they are ready for the dam project,” Mr Smith said. In return, QWI CEO Graeme Newton said that the project would allow the major contractors to leave a lasting legacy for the local region. “The delivery of a $1.6 billion project in this area will inject significant long term economic benefits for local businesses,” Mr Newton said. “Businesses will gain major project experience and expanded skills that will transcend to future projects, and a diversity of business opportunities.” To date, over 640 businesses have registered for potential opportunities associated with the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam Project, more than 80% of them from the local Cooloola, Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay regions. The database will be provided to the short-listed consortium to assist them in their tender preparation.
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