That was the message when Borg Manufacturing’s Jim Snelson, Victor Bendevski and Greg Muir attended the Oberon Business and Tourism Association (OBTA) meeting last week to update members on the development plans for the factory.

The gathering was also given a detailed look at the expansion using 3D computer technology.

According to chief executive officer Mr Snelson, the wheels of progress in the NSW Government Department of Planning and Environment, while fastidious, do roll slowly. 

“The process of consultation, which involves input from the state government, council, local stakeholders and interested individuals, has meant Borg has been asked to modify the plans for the project a number of times,” Mr Snelson said.

“Despite this lengthy and expensive process, Borg still does not have formal approval for the project. When approval is ultimately granted, a set of conditions will be set by the state government to control construction hours, emissions and noise levels.”

Mr Snelson told the meeting that when work is complete, the result will be “a world class particle board line”.

The plant upgrade will take up to two years to complete and will employ more than 100 workers during the construction phase. Recently, 35 people were put on for steel fabrication.

“There will be opportunities for apprentices and others to gain invaluable experience throughout the project,” he said. 

Mr Snelson said that if employees cannot be sourced locally, workers will be sought from overseas through an International Labour Agreement via the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, because “we don’t want to start the project and not have the staff to complete it”. 

The project can be viewed on the Borg Manufacturing website. The community liaison line is 1800 862 795 or 6339 6111.