AEROSPACE company Boeing’s new production facility at Wagner Corporation’s $550 million Wellcamp Aerospace and Defence Precinct in Toowoomba has broken ground.
The 9,000sqm facility will anchor the aerospace and defence precinct where Boeing will manufacture its uncrewed MQ-28 Ghost Bat aircraft, marking the first time in more than 50 years a military combat aircraft has been designed, developed and manufactured in Australia.
“The new facility is set to be a catalyst for significant further investment from companies wanting to be part of this growth sector,” said John Wagner, chairman at Wagner Corporation.
“It has already attracted substantial investment from state and federal governments, and will likely bring further investment from higher education, small-to-medium enterprises and start-up companies looking to co-locate and collaborate.”
The construction phase will generate jobs for more than 200 people directly and hundreds more indirectly.
Upon completion, the facility is estimated to employ a 100 people strong workforce once operational.
“The Wellcamp Aerospace and Defence Precinct, anchored by Boeing’s facility, will introduce new industries and technologies such as advanced robotics, creating new capabilities and employment opportunities that benefit Toowoomba, Queensland and Australia as a whole,” added Wagner.
“The opportunity to be part of revolutionary development and manufacturing will draw some of the brightest minds and recognised experts to our region.”
The precinct is part of the Wagner Corporation’s 430-hectare masterplanned Wellcamp Business Park, around 125km west of Brisbane.
“No other business hub can offer what we do, giving Wellcamp Business Park an unbeatable edge and attracting Boeing, Qantas and other international and local companies of all sizes who have chosen to operate here,” said Wagner.
“Locating in the precinct is a strategic decision for businesses wanting to take advantage of its unrivalled connections to transport and logistics with our passenger airport and international air cargo hub, alongside Toowoomba’s continued economic growth.”
With earthworks now underway for Boeing’s new production facility, completion is anticipated for 2025.
