With SouthMACH a few weeks away, industry suppliers and organisers are in full planning mode to create a world-class visitor experience. SouthMACH Exhibition Manager Aad van der Poel is also in full flight, declaring the range of exhibitors, products, services, seminars and networking opportunities as greater than ever before – making this year’s show a must-attend.
“More than 100 international and local exhibitors will inform, delight, entertain and celebrate Kiwi innovation across the two days. There’s also the serious business of putting forward great commercial deals for the manufacturing community. If you’re based in the South Island then you really need to visit this free event to best position your business with the latest technology on offer,” says Aad.
This year will see more machines on-site at SouthMACH than previously. New Zealand’s leading CNC suppliers are going all out to showcase their latest products and machining technology. Total CNC, Revolution Precision Machinery, Haas, Scott Machinery, Aotea Machinery and many more will be displaying their newest ranges for you to get up close with.
In addition, exhibitors from the world of industrial automation will be displaying Robotics that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry. Design Energy, John Brooks Automation, and Omron are set to wow visitors with a range of automation solutions that will deliver your business efficiencies and the ability to compete on a global scale.
One of the key features of SouthMACH is the comprehensive free seminar programme. Aad is quick to point out, “On both days of the show there are informative and thought-provoking sessions covering topics ranging from Advanced Manufacturing (incl. 3D printing), Industry 4.0, Collaborative Product Design as well as Practical solutions for implementation of Health & Safety practices, all presented by some of the most respected experts in their field.”
FREE Seminar Presentations include:
- Additive Manufacturing; New International & Local Developments.
- Industry 4.0 – where are we at, and what does it really mean for New Zealand manufacturers?
- Alone we are smart, together we’re brilliant: How to collaborate successfully: Stabicraft 1600 Fisher case study.
- Hype of 3D Printing: What role can the technology really play in manufacturing?
- Panel Discussion: The increasing pace of change in (digital) manufacturing technologies: how do we harness these new technologies to drive up productivity on the factory floor and beyond?
- Supply Chain Risks and Opportunities.
- New AS-NZS 5131 Fabrication and Erection Standard – Structural steelwork.
- Intellectual Property: What it is and how to protect it.
A full seminar schedule is available at
www.southmach.co.nz
‘Speed Dating’ for Manufacturers & Apprentices
In an exciting new addition, the Industry Apprentice Workshop in partnership with Competenz and NZMEA brings ‘Speed Dating’ for Manufacturers & Apprentices to SouthMACH 2017. The dedicated session from 1-4pm on Day One of SouthMACH is set to demystify the process of employing an apprentice for employers. Many SME’s haven’t previously employed an apprentice and don’t have much idea about the time commitment needed. This workshop will provide an increased awareness with school students about the exciting opportunities a career in engineering and manufacturing may provide. Competenz will be introducing a speed dating style session matching employer and potential employees together providing a one stop shop to review future employment growth opportunities for your business.
Additional Business Growth workshops are free to attend for all visitors on-site. Presented by Business Mentors NZ, Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce and Sales Star – each session aims to provide valuable insights and knowledge to take your business further. More details and registration is available at www.southmach.co.nz
Prizes, prizes and more prizes!
“There are a vast number of supplier displays, deals and demonstrations, plus break-out areas for networking and many other attractions including the chance to win some great prizes including an Up Box+ 3D printer for all those who register early and the chance to win yourself a brand-new Ford* (T&Cs are at www.southmach.co.nz)”, says Aad.
Kiwi Design & Manufacturing Innovation – Close up
Another big attraction is the featured presence of the Stabicraft 1600 Fisher brought to SouthMACH by Stabicraft and Caliber Design, a Christchurch based engineering, analysis, and mechanical design consultancy. Jonathan Prince, Director at Caliber Design says, “This is a brilliant example of collaborative product design where in order to compete globally New Zealand businesses have had to innovate and collaborate to make collective gains. The Stabicraft Design team supported by experts from complimentary businesses such as Caliber Design bought a fresh perspective, design process thinking, and bespoke use of composites to the recreational boat market.”
The result was the development of a new material that simplified the assembly process allowing for increased through-put during later assembly stages on the production line. This stunning example of kiwi design collaboration led to winning the prestigious Red Dot Design Award in 2016, one of the most respected design competitions in the world with 5000 entries from 51 nations. The “Red Dot” is the revered international seal of outstanding design quality.
A number of other features will be present including the Ubco 2x2 electric off-road motorbike and the world renowned Shotover Camera, designed and manufactured in Queenstown.
Clearly, as Aad van der Poel says, “SouthMACH is the South Island’s premier technology trade show celebrating the heartland of NZ Manufacturing. If you are an engineer – mechanical, design, consultant, electrical; machinist; communications technician/manager; supervisor; technical operator; operations manager or similar, then SouthMACH offers the tools, technology and services to work smarter.”
With support from leading industry organisations and educational institutions including NZMEA, MESNZ, Competenz, Callaghan Innovation and Canterbury University, SouthMACH 2017 will be the industry’s highlight of the year.
SouthMACH 2017 runs from 24 to 25 May at Horncastle Arena, Addington, Christchurch. Free registration is now open for Industry Professionals wishing to attend. Simply visit www.southmach.co.nz/visitor-information/register
To see a full list of SouthMACH 2017 exhibitors, please visit www.southmach.co.nz
