Innisfail company IBS Engineering Supplies has endured two cyclones and a flood but has overcome these obstacles to become the successful, innovative business.
In a significant milestone for the company, IBS is in the process of relocating to a new site, with a tentative launch date set in July.
This relocation will facilitate the development of the Centre of Engineering Innovation, which will focus the company’s already unique talents and services, allowing them to become a leader in engineering research, development and innovation.
IBS managing director Bill Seawright said the relocation would benefit both the company and the community.
“The relocation will provide more job opportunities and restore confidence in the area after the devastation caused by Cyclone Larry,” he said.
“It will also allow us to double our floor size and increase our retail product range. “I had my eye on this block of land 10-15 years ago, so it is a dream come true for me.”
This dream took a long time to come to fruition for IBS, which lost $30,000 worth of stock during Cyclone Winifred in 1986 and $100,000 worth of stock during floods in 1999.
In 2006, Cyclone Larry caused irreparable structural damage, more than $136,000 worth of damage to equipment and machinery and more than $50,000 worth of stock was destroyed.
IBS has been recognised for its innovative ideas over the years and won a number of awards. .
A major achievement has been the design and manufacture of a conveyor system being utilised by the Australian Banana Company. The conveyor system has allowed ABC to break daily output records.
The company has demonstrated its ability to compete on a worldwide level by exporting its Ozzy Bulldog power ladders to Taiwan and Hawaii.
IBS has also branched out into Non-Destructive Testing and computational stress and strain analysis.
Seawright said IBS was the only company in North Queensland conducting stress analysis with this program.
www.ibsengineering.com.au