Artificial intelligence, or AI, is not coming, it’s here.

This powerful message was central to a business breakfast at Recopak in Cobram earlier this month, which explored how AI was transforming the manufacturing sector, boosting productivity, enhancing safety and driving innovation.

Leading experts from RMIT University, Professor Xiaodong Li and Associate Professor Ben Cheng, and Anril Giri from JBS Australia, addressed almost 100 representatives from Moira Shire businesses.

They were there to build on their knowledge of the tools that could help them navigate the rapidly evolving, technological landscape.

“Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future—it’s here, and it’s reshaping how we work and compete across all sectors,” Moira Shire’s chair administrator, Dr Emonson said.

Professor Li discussed the role artificial intelligence played in optimising processes and decision making.

Associate Professor Cheng talked about machine learning, data analytics, computer vision, and how the team at RMIT was exploring the use of augmented reality and virtual reality technology to attract and train a younger workforce into the manufacturing industry.

Mr Giri from JBS talked about ways JBS was applying AI in daily operations, including livestock counting with 100 per cent accuracy, animal welfare, safety and detecting unauthorized staff actions.

Among those who attended was Mon Natural Foods projects and maintenance manager, Andrew Leimgruber.

The company, based in Barooga, bottles 57 different condiments.

With 85 staff it is the second-largest employer in Berrigan Shire.

Mr Leimgruber identified improved efficiency and production, without compromising job security, a one of his biggest challenges.

“There’s always this tremendous fear with our operators that they're going to be without a job,” he said.

“Fortunately, with all the upgrades we’ve done since 2012, we've increased production by another 12 per cent and we haven’t had to get rid of anybody, which has been very, very good.”

This financial year, Mon produced almost 25 million bottles of condiments with a goal to reach 30 million.

“How do we do that; who do we talk to; what are the questions we ask?” Mr Leimgruber said.

“How do we actually implement this stuff?

“We do have some ideas, but I can already see our ideas are yesterdays.”

“We're always looking at efficiencies, because if we don't stay efficient, we will be out of business.”

Mr Leimgruber has a background in mechatronics, which combines mechanical, electrical, computer, and control engineering to design and develop intelligent machines and systems.

“I have an understanding; now we need to build on that and try to take it to the next level, but within our means,” he said.

“We must manage the cost of raw materials to the cost of labour … concentrate on efficiencies in warehousing, logistics and safety.

“At the same time, we’re concerned about job security and the future of the workforce, and making sure we aren’t breaching a duty of care and going over the top with surveillance.

“There’s an element of honesty and trust that we don’t want to lose.”

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Wednesday, 2nd August 2023

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