TURNTABLE

Local ingenuity delivers a punch

EVERY ATTRACTION NEEDS SOMETHING SPECIAL—AND MOVE CERTAINLY HAS ITS OWN ‘WOW’ FACTOR.

After stepping through the curved entrance, visitors move from the dark to a dazzling display of the latest ‘hero’ vehicle turning slowly on a turntable.

The four-metre diameter turntable made by Mooroopna manufacturing specialists EDP Australia PTY LTD is a feat of engineering in its own right. Designed by company owner Ian Parsons, the turntable is operated by CNC—computerised numerical control—which involves laser cutting and metal folding from concept design to manufacture. “It’s been a challenge from an engineering point of view, but it’s allowed me to use new technology that I’ve put into the company over the past three years,” Ian said. “Without that technology we wouldn’t have been able to produce it as accurately as we have.” Ian said the turntable had been built to within one millimetre of the original four-metre design. “We design and manufacture packaging machinery—not turntables. So this was a real challenge and a valuable exercise to use some new techniques,” he said. The 74-year-old engineering business employs 30 people in manufacturing specialised fresh produce packaging and handling equipment. Fifty per cent of its business is with the Australian citrus industry. EDP also exports equipment to North America.

Ian said the whole concept of MOVE was fantastic for Shepparton. “Any car enthusiast is going to love it, and his wife has the opportunity to go next door and look at the clothing exhibition—it’s a win-win,” he said. Ian Parsons.