Eniquest
Bells Creek based business Eniquest, really showcases the local industry’s ability to bring international manufacturing to the Sunshine Coast. Eniquest will build 1350 diesel generators after recently securing a $47.4 million contract with the Australian Defence Force.
Founder and CEO Don Pulver, set the business on a path to build on the region’s manufacturing capability when establishing in Warana in 2003. The business began by importing power equipment such as solar panels and generators, but Don was eager to bring that manufacturing onto Australian shores.
“When we first started, we were importing our power equipment and selling them because you could only find them manufactured overseas. We wanted to show the world that we can do it and do it very well.
So, we focused on finding who could help us achieve that on the Sunshine Coast. There were machine shops, fabricators, painters, and many other businesses. The suppliers and contractors we sourced instilled the quality of businesses in the region.”
Don and his team took the lead and became involved in the design, development and build of the generators. Eniquest became the only business in Australia to build commercial DC alternators as they endeavoured to make their generators from local components.
Eniquest expanded and moved into Corbould Park in Bells Creek five years ago where they’ve continued to build their relationships with local businesses. Don has found businesses on the coast value each other and as a result the service provided is genuine and quality.
“We’ve been lucky to be surrounded by an ecosystem of great businesses that everyday help us in the office to the factory floor. These include accountants, solicitors, IT specialists, cleaners, electricians, trades people and much more.”
Eniquest has been an active member of the Manufacturing Excellence Forum (MEF) and Fisher Defence Industry Council to connect with other local manufacturers and help build their capability. Recently, Don hosted a MEF event at their premise to give the network insight into their operation and delivering large contracts. Eniquest’s success is not Don’s only priority, it’s also to help build the industry so the Sunshine Coast can be recognised for large capacity manufacturing.
“The defence industry is one of the biggest manufacturing opportunities in the country and for our local industry. I want to see other manufacturers on the coast realise that opportunity so being as active as we can through MEF is important. It’s a platform that allows us to connect with other businesses and share our experiences and expertise.”
The recent ADF contract secured by Eniquest will bring more work for businesses and jobs to the Sunshine Coast. More than 20 people are expected to be employed and trained, while a new building twice the size of their current will be constructed.
“This contract is huge for our business community. We hope this will signal the start of more defence opportunities for our local industry.”
Eniquest has been named one of the Local Business Champions in this year’s Sunshine Coast Council series which highlights Sunshine Coast businesses and their contribution to local industry and community.
Learn more about Eniquest