Poly pipe factory for Tocumwal

By Geoff Adams

Jul 1, 2021

Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley has announced a $1 million Federal Government grant to help develop plans for Australia’s first recycled high-density polyethylene pipe plant at Tocumwal Airport.

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The funding, delivered under round two of the government’s Manufacturing Modernisation Fund (MMF), will assist Poly Transport Systems in establishing a $14 million water pipe manufacturing facility.

According to Ms Ley ‘poly pipe’ comes in at around 10 per cent the cost of older concrete channels, and with potential for 70 per cent of the finished product from recycled material, it will not only save farmers money but also helps protect the environment by reusing plastic waste.

“When the project gets under way we’re expecting 31 jobs on construction, ongoing employment for around 40 people and a multiplier effect of another 120 jobs, so it’s a massive boost to employment in Berrigan Shire,” Ms Ley said.

The company was established only last year.

Berrigan Shire Mayor Matthew Hannan said the project would give an economic boost to the town and the region.

He was not aware of the background of the new company.

No development applications have yet been lodged with the shire.

Poly Transport Systems have been offered the $1 million grant to fund the purchase of manufacturing equipment and labour to install and commission the plant

The company was not available for comment.

By Geoff Adams

Shepparton News assistant editor and Country News journalist