Warialda Engineering and Welding is about to launch its Davis Starlifter into the United States of America market. The company, owned by Mick Davis, currently employs 12 people including five apprentices.
“We have been invited to attend the World Ag Expo under the banner of Austrade,” Mick Davis said. “To be held in Tulare, California in February next year, this will provide access to thousands of potential wholesalers who will visit the Expo. To date we have sold 15,000 units in Australia, but if the USA move takes off we are looking at supplying between 20,000 and 100,000 units per year. This would create up to ten additional local jobs.”
Starting off in his garage, Mick designed the lifter that is used for lifting logs and star pickets out of the ground. It is a tool that saves time and energy as well as reducing the risk of back strain and other injuries. Six years ago the business moved to larger premises and has recently purchased more land for another expansion.
In addition to Mick’s strong commitment to taking on apprentices, his workshops are also used as a training centre for local TAFE courses.
Mick also designed and produces a range of trailers and has recently won the Grain Corporation’s Best Invention in Australia for his Davis Bag Mate. This clamps onto the bladder of bulk grain bags for safe, quick and controlled release of the contents.
Twice taking out the Farm Inventor of the Year, Mick has also won a number of Aboriginal Business awards, BHP Steel and Power Farming Awards just to name a few.
“We are excited by Warialda Engineering’s commitment to local employment, traineeships and other options for young people,” said Mayor Mark Coulton. “We hope this will inspire other businesses to consider expansion or help attract new businesses to the area. Mick is a innovative business person who has made a successful business from producing high quality products.”
