WA government contributes $340,000 to Gemco’s Forrestfield railcar factory upgrade

The Western Australian government has awarded a $340,000 grant to Gemco Rail through the Local Manufacturing Investment Fund, which will support upgrades to the company’s Forrestfield factory.

According to a statement from Stephen Dawson, WA assisting minister for industry development, the modernisation investments will help the company deliver 40 iron ore rail wagons to BHP.

“Having a fully upgraded railcar facility will enable WA to keep up with a rapidly changing industry and ensure our products remain first class,” said Dawson on Tuesday.

“Through the LMIF, the [WA] Government is investing in keeping important industries such as railcar manufacturing operating here locally, as well as supporting other local companies throughout the State.”

Details of the upgrades were few.

The grant follows another to Gemco through the LMIF, worth $6.9 million and awarded in May 2023, to assist in upgrades at Forrestfield and to establish a new rail manufacturing and maintenance facility in Karratha. The latter is currently being outfitted, according to the release. 

Gemco Rail is part of engineering services and products business Engenco Group.

Picture: credit WA government