by Charbel Kadib
A Loganholme-based manufacturer has been selected to deliver fuel and water modules for Defence’s fleet of logistics trucks.
Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles has awarded a $30 million contract to bulk liquid storage manufacturer Holmwood Highgate, which has been tasked with supplying fuel and water modules fitted to the Australian Army’s fleet of logistics trucks, including new vehicles to be supplied under LAND 121 Phase 5B.
This is in addition to the over $108 million in funding previously awarded to the Queensland-based firm under LAND 121 Phase 3.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the new contract would provide the firm’s 150 employees with ongoing opportunities.
“The acquisition of more trucks by Defence is creating many opportunities for Australian businesses,” Minister Price said.
“Critically, this new $30 million contract with Holmwood Highgate will mean ongoing work for the company’s 150 employees who are based in Queensland.
“These trucks have proven highly capable in their short service-life to date, and given Holmwood’s continued delivery of high-quality products, the company has been contracted to supply additional fuel and water modules for the tanker variant.”
The minister added: “Holmwood Highgate’s partnership with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia is an outstanding example of a small-to-medium business working with prime contractors to deliver top-class technology and Defence capability.”
Federal member for Forde Bert van Manen reflected on Holmwood Highgate’s history of operation in Queensland, and its evolution as a globally-recognised manufacturer of bulk liquid tankers.
“Holmwood Highgate employs a diverse range of highly skilled tradespeople, ranging from aluminium welders, boilermakers and fitter welders to spray painters, mechanics and auto electricians,” van Manen said.
“I’m very proud to see Holmwood Highgate’s employees having such a positive impact on Forde and equally proud of the benefits the substantial investment by the Morrison government in Australia’s defence capability is bringing to Australian industry.”
Minister Price said the contract forms part of the Commonwealth government’s commitment to investing $575 billion in Defence over the next decade, including $270 billion in capability.
“Defence is a major partner of Australian industry, offering broad opportunities to be involved with the cutting-edge technology and innovative capability which support our national and strategic interests,” Minister Price added.