PPG held a grand opening ceremony for its state-of-the-art training centre in Eastern Creek, Western Sydney 30 October.
The Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney, The Honourable Barry O’Farrell, emphasised the positive impact the facility will have in fostering the growth and development of personnel in the automotive refinish/spray painting sector.
Premier O’Farrell officially opening the facility in front of an audience of around 150 invited guests, including representatives from the collision repair industry, TAFE organisations and vehicle manufacturers.
This new addition to PPG’s national training network is packed with the latest in vehicle repair equipment.
A technology partnership with, Lowbake Australia, sees the lavish fit out introduce the local industry to high efficiency, low energy solutions that deliver substantial time and cost savings, including gas-fired infrared paint curing (IR Gas Robot) and RADS (Rapid Air Dry System).
Other features include two glass sided spray booths, prep areas with sliding energy rails, a training room with state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and a lifting glass wall that open to the workshop and SATA spray equipment and Mirka sanding tools.
Environmental sustainability was also a key design factor. As a result, the building features hi-tech, low energy T5 fluorescent and LED lighting technologies, along with recycled water, stormwater purification and energy efficient glass and air conditioning.
“PPG Industries is a long term supporter of the TAFE network and this new training centre enhances our ability to work hand-in-hand with them by offering relevant and effective post-apprenticeship training. More than that, this latest investment reinforces PPG’s commitment to using training to support our customers as they strive for success in a dynamic and rapidly changing market,” said PPG General Manager Refinish ANZ, Paul Galea.
“And we’re not just talking about product training. PPG training facilities across Australia and New Zealand provide a wide range of initiatives, including best practice workflow processes and business efficiency strategies, such as those available via PPG’s MVP bodyshop development program.”
The new building also houses a two storey administration office block which serves as a new home for PPG’s NSW Refinish Team. NSW State Manager, Ken Wiggens, says his staff deserve a lot of credit for the smooth transition from the previous facility in South Strathfield.
From left: Andrew Rohan MP, Duncan McDonnell, premier Barry O'Farrell, Ken Wiggens, Paul Galea.