September 2025

Major Milestone: Six King Long EVolution low-floor electric buses enter Victorian service

Six brand-new King Long EVolution low-floor electric chassis have entered service in Melbourne — a significant step forward for the brand and a strong demonstration of the world-class capability of the EVolution platform. Purpose-built for the most demanding of missions, these vehicles were custom-designed for high-frequency airport operations. Running 24/7, they are engineered to meet the toughest duty cycles — proving beyond doubt that the King Long EVolution is not only capable but trusted for the hardest passenger transport tasks. This milestone is the result of a powerful collaboration between King Long, one of the world’s largest bus manufacturers, and Global Bus Ventures (NZ), New Zealand’s leading body builder. The vehicles were finished in Australia, delivering a final product with market-leading local Australian and New Zealand build content. This trans-Tasman approach supports local jobs and industry, combining globally respected chassis technology with craftsmanship that meets Australasian standards. Together, this partnership unites local build content with global innovation and scale — delivering the best of both worlds for operators who demand reliability, performance, and class-leading efficiency. Pete White, Managing Director of Bus Stop Sales — the exclusive Australian distributor of King Long, said the milestone cements King Long’s growing presence in Australia: “SkyBus is one of the most demanding applications for passenger transport, with aroundthe-clock operations and the highest expectations for reliability. For the King Long EVolution platform to be trusted in this environment sends a powerful message — that King Long delivers world-class technology with the performance and dependability Australian operators need. This is global leadership, delivered locally.” King Long’s EVolution chassis is the cornerstone of a fast-growing zero-emissions portfolio now operating in Australia. From 12-metre low-floor city buses to resource industry coaches and now high-frequency airport fleets, King Long electric buses are already proving themselves across diverse Australian conditions. […]

Hunter manufacturing embraces innovation and growth

Manufacturing in the Hunter is undergoing a quiet resurgence, with $26 billion in annual output and a growing number of businesses embracing clean energy, digital transformation and inclusive practices. That shift is reflected in a record number of applications for the Hunter Manufacturing Awards, with a 44% increase in applications, including 11 first-time entrants. The strong response points to a sector in transition, with significant growth seen in award categories such as innovation, product design and sustainability. The introduction of two new categories, Diversity in Manufacturing and Digital Transformation, was also met with enthusiasm, reflecting how manufacturers across the Hunter, Central and Mid North Coasts are adapting to the demands of a modern, resilient economy. “This year’s entries tell a bigger story than just numbers,” said HMA Chair Jacqui Daley. “They reveal a sector that is shifting gear, embracing advanced technologies, investing in cleaner, smarter production, and creating more inclusive workplaces.” Manufacturing continues to be one of the most important industries in the region, second only to mining in terms of output. While traditional industries such as steelmaking, aluminium and machinery fabrication still play a key role, the Hunter’s manufacturing landscape is being reshaped by growth in clean energy technologies, defence and aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage production. “In every corner of our region, we’re seeing manufacturers step up with creativity and capability, from batteries and boats to breakfast cereals and biotech,” said Daley. “The 2025 entries showcase the real breadth and depth of talent we have here.” Now in its 21st year, the Hunter Manufacturing Awards program continues to celebrate the people, processes and progress shaping the region’s industrial future. Winners of the 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards will be announced at the gala event on Thursday 30 October 2025 at NEX, Newcastle . The event brings together manufacturers, […]

Robots red meatAMPC interim CEO Edwina Toohey

Robots, red meat and resilience: driving productivity and sustainability in the processing industry

AMPC Innovation Showcase, Brisbane 10–11 September, 2025 The Australian red meat processing industry broke three of its own environmental performance records this past year, thanks in large part to practices driven by new technologies and innovation. The industry is coming together in Brisbane for the second Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) Innovation Showcase, where processors, researchers and supply chain participants will gather to talk about how the industry is improving global competitiveness and productivity, while reducing its environmental impact. The red meat sector includes beef cattle, sheep, goats and buffalo. The processing industry is a major contributor to the Australian economy. It currently supports the employment of more than 189,000 people and generates more than $25.4 billion in direct and industry value adds. The two-day Showcase event will bring together more than 400 delegates to look at how red meat will be processed in the next decade, and how technology can help make it safer, more sustainable and more efficient. The program reflects the growing role of innovation in securing food supply, reducing climate impact and shaping the future of work in regional communities. AMPC’s interim CEO Edwina Toohey says rigorous research and development is driving incredible innovation in the red meat processing industry. “Our latest industry Environmental Performance Review showed industry broke three records last year: lowest intensity results for greenhouse gas emissions since reporting began in 1998; industry’s lowest water intensity; and the highest water recycling levels. Environmental improvements have also massively shifted, with bioenergy now having taken over from coal as the second most used thermal energy source. “Those incredible results come at the same time as tech, AI and innovation are opening the industry to a broader workforce, creating even better-quality products and delivering world-leading food safety outcomes. This showcase will give delegates a chance […]