12 November, 2025.
It was great to be invited to one of the Wollondilly Electorate's largest employers, Tyree Transformers in Braemar, Southern Highlands, for the MATES in Manufacturing and Tyree partnership launch. I appreciated the opportunity to attend this important event alongside Carol Berry MP, Member for Whitlam. MATES in Manufacturing is a suicide prevention program designed for Australia's manufacturing sector, building on the success of the MATES in Construction model. The program focuses on improving mental health and reducing suicide rates through workplace training, peer support, and connections to professional help. It's a joint initiative between organisations such as the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union and the Australian Industry Group, with trained volunteers known as 'Connectors' who play a crucial role in identifying and supporting colleagues in need. It was great to meet and hear from Jørgen Gullestrup, CEO MATES Australia and Scott Mackenzie, MATES in Manufacturing, Carol Berry MP; and Steven Smith, Tyree. Tyree Transformers is a proud Australian-owned company that designs and manufactures high-quality power and distribution transformers, substations, and other electrical equipment for industries including power utilities, heavy industry, renewable energy and infrastructure.
