Qube Logistics’ decision to close its Goulburn depot is a bitter blow for workers and the city.
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The flow on effects are immense, not least of all for employees, many of whom have young families. Some had moved to Goulburn expressly to take up positions with the company.
There’s no doubt that last season’s lower grain harvest and shortage of export wheat hit hard. But just how vigorously Qube chased other contracts to compensate, we don’t really know. We do know it dropped a log haulage agreement with International Primary Products last year.
It’s also notable that Qube has paid retention bonuses to its Victorian crews for their “commitment” in what corporate affairs director Paul White describes as a very competitive labour market. How is it that the company’s Victorian operations are apparently thriving but the NSW division is lagging? Either it says something about Qube’s business strategy or NSW is failing to get more freight off its roads.
Perhaps it’s a combination of both. Here in Goulburn, another company, Chicago Freight Rail is looking to expand its rail hub and is actively chasing more haulage opportunities. On the other hand, Qube is pulling out.
Why is it so? If these companies are serious, they must target markets, working in concert with government strategies. For example, is anyone talking to Heron Resources at Woodlawn Mine about transporting its product by rail rather than by truck, which will place serious pressure on roads?
None of this helps Qube workers now but it’s a lesson for our economic strategists.
Time for some adventure
It was like Christmas had come early for the children of Goulburn on Saturday morning.
For many, the Adventure Playground exceeded expectations. With so many options and attractions, parents were dragged to every section of the site.
Beyond the thrill of the opening day, stood supporters who had made this plan a reality.
Goulburn Mulwaree councillors, MP Pru Goward, MP Angus Taylor, Goulburn Convoy for Kids, youth council members and volunteers should all be commended for their perseverance on this project.
The park will forever be an asset to the community and is a perfect example of how all levels of government can, and should, be working.