Manufacturing operations at Bushmans Tanks’ Dalby facility are being reviewed through a Lean-focused pilot aimed at improving the flow of finished goods between production and dispatch, according to the Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI).
The initiative formed part of the Western Downs Manufacturing: Shaping the Energy Future program, delivered by QMI with support from Western Downs Regional Council.
In a news release, QMI said Bushmans Tanks was selected to participate in the pilot, which examined how work moves across its operations as production volumes have increased.
Established in 1989, Bushmans is an Australian-owned manufacturer of water tanks and storage solutions for residential, agricultural, commercial and industrial applications.
QMI Business Transformations Specialist James McIntosh initially focused the review on production. However, the assessment found that production was operating effectively, prompting attention to the processes supporting it, particularly the movement, storage and access of finished goods.
According to QMI, the focus subsequently shifted from improving production output to strengthening the connection between manufacturing and dispatch. Changes were described as practical and targeted, including bringing greater consistency to how finished goods are managed and moved through the yard.
The institute said the adjustments have helped make movement across the site more controlled, while scheduling and the transition between production stages and dispatch have become more predictable.
Marina Thompson, State Manager Bushmans Group Dalby, said the pilot had provided the company with “valuable knowledgeable and actionable insights from James”.
QMI said the pilot has enabled Bushmans to strengthen operational flow without changing its core manufacturing processes. The institute said the approach could help the business accommodate increasing production volumes while maintaining performance.
The program also reflects a broader focus on supporting manufacturing businesses to identify operational improvements through collaboration between industry and government, QMI said.
