News Turbine appoints project director to new manufacturing precinct

Turbine has appointed experienced project director, Frances Cayley, to lead the multi-million dollar food and beverage manufacturing precinct at Sunshine Coast Airport, following Turbine’s recent success in securing $8.78 million in federal government funding. 

When complete, the Turbine Precinct will house manufacturing services, a research and development facility, warehousing and logistics, an expertise hub and an industry-specific training facility. The aim is to help local food and beverage businesses scale up and expand into larger markets, nationally and internationally. 

While this manufacturing precinct will focus on increasing productivity for local manufacturers, at its core, the Turbine Precinct will be a space for collaboration to flourish, and innovation to drive new products and ideas. 

Cayley has previously held the position of head of Property at the Sunshine Coast Council with a $1 billion portfolio that included the Sunshine Coast City Hall, where she was the project director. 

With over 20 years of experience in senior roles in the property industry, Cayley has worked across both the private sector and local government, managing a diverse range of property portfolios. 

“Turbine presents an opportunity to establish an important asset that will contribute significantly to the Sunshine Coast’s future,” Cayley said. “This precinct will shine a light on the importance of manufacturing in the food and beverage sector and will offer so many opportunities to those smaller businesses who really need the support to help them scale, break into new markets and increase their market share. 

“This is the start of something truly special, not just for the Sunshine Coast but for all of Australia and it is a privilege to be a part of such an innovative initiative for our region.” 

Stage One of the Turbine Precinct will be focused on beverage manufacturing. In addition to working with and supporting start-ups and small businesses, the export-ready facility will also attract global beverage brands who see the facility and its location as a gateway to international markets. 

“Over the past six years, FAN has created a unique, collaborative ecosystem to support the growth of the food and agribusiness industry across the Greater Sunshine Coast region,” Turbine director and FAN CEO Emma Greenhatch said. “Turbine will take this to the next level, providing advanced manufacturing capability, critical services and education and training to turbocharge industry growth.” 

Greenhatch said that the project started on the premise that collaboration is key to future success, and a vision to create a foundation for Australian food and beverage manufacturing to stand upon. 

“The Turbine Precinct will be a place where industry, research, government and education and training providers collectively unlock growth and drive innovation, and Turbine’s Board are delighted that Frances will be leading the project,” she said. 

“Frances’ values parallel those of Turbine and this, coupled with her skills in property and her ability to engage with key stakeholders, made her the ideal person for the role.” 

Planning is underway for the Turbine Precinct, which is due to commence operations in late 2023. 

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