MAY 9, 2016: SECURING a Liberal National Government Industry Skills Fund grant of more than $28,000 will enable Paget-based business Mackay Conveyor Equipment to train up employees in preparation for a diversified future.I paid the business a visit today and caught up with managing director Jason Kelly, who told me he wanted to upskill his staff so together they could work towards establishing a consistent flow of business.If he can source more opportunities, he can offer more casual and fulltime jobs.He said it came down to looking further afield to source work for his business which has traditionally provided parts and maintenance services to coal mines in the Bowen Basin.His aim is to tap into other industries such as gold, uranium and sugar.“We’re trying to extend our footprint and get ready to take on other markets,” Mr Kelly said.“I’ve looked at industries like sugar, gold and uranium because of the commonality in the equipment they use.“A lot of the equipment is transferable to different industries and we’re trying to break into those markets.”The Industry Skills Fund grant of $28,400 will be used to support training opportunities such as completion of a Diploma of Business.The Coalition Government provides funding to small businesses to help with the costs of training, including helping employees to learn new skills and upgrade their existing qualifications, or to train staff who may be new to the workforce.We're committed to a stronger, more diversified, more innovative 21st century economy. We can only do this with the assistance of highly trained workers and enterprising local businesses.To find out more visit: www.business.gov.au/industryskillsfund or call 13 28 46