Kelly Engineering honoured for exporting success
Austrade media release
1 December 2010
A farm equipment exporter was honoured with an Australian Export Award tonight for developing a special agricultural tool which enhances sustainable farming by avoiding the use of chemicals and recycling nutrients.
Family-owned company Kelly Engineering was honoured for its achievements at the 48th Australian Export Awards Ceremony, held tonight in Sydney, after winning the Regional Exporter Award, sponsored by Qantas Freight.
Kelly Engineering has been manufacturing farm equipment for over 20 years at Booleroo Centre, but its rapid expansion over the past three years is due to the export success of the company’s invention, the Kelly Diamond Chain Harrow.
This innovative farm machinery encourages sustainable agriculture by recycling nutrients and providing an alternative to chemical weed control. Designed to be safe and easy to use, the machine requires no manual handling or hands-on operation.
One of the country’s longest-running and most prestigious business award programs, the Australian Export Awards celebrates Australia’s best exporters, commending them for their achievements and commitment. The Australian Export Awards are co-presented by the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Pat Moessinger, Austrade’s State Manager for South Australia, said that Kelly Engineering was an excellent example of a South Australian company representing its state internationally.
“Kelly Engineering has made a significant contribution, not just to its community, but also to the national prosperity,” Ms Moessinger said.
“The company represents what is best about Australian business – dynamic, resourceful and determined to succeed in international business.”
“Kelly Engineering stood out for its strong and sustainable export growth: and it is this increased export demand that has resulted in jobs growth for the company,” Ms Moessinger said.
The Kelly Diamond Chain Harrow also doubles as a weed control tool. The efficient operation and low fuel requirements mean that there is a cost effective alternative to chemical application. Herbicide resistance, environmental and health issues, and the out-and-out cost of chemicals are all compelling reasons to seek alternative control methods where possible.
Strong sales in the USA are projected to reach a point where the manufacturing of the machines will be beyond Kelly Engineering’s production capacity. To manage this risk, the company is expanding its output capacity by arranging for contract manufacturing in the USA.
Kelly machines are also manufactured under licence in Denmark to meet the European market demands.
ENDS
Media contact
Emma Bailey
Tel: 02 9392 2176
Mob: 0414 969 348
Email: emma.bailey@austrade.gov.au
Samantha Mattila
Tel: 02 9390 2388
Mob: 0434 567 673
samantha.mattila@austrade.gov.au
Full case studies are available at www.exportawards.gov.au