An Okuma Double Column Machining Centre model MCR-A5CII is the latest addition to the Western Australian company’s burgeoning machining, fabrication and paint facility.

Kerr Engineering has added a new double column machining centre to its expanding dedicated machine shop at its base in Henderson, Western Australia. 

The company has installed and commissioned an Okuma double column machining centre model MCR-A5CII, joining a range of advanced machines in a building currently being extended to exceed 4,000 square metres.  

The expanded machine shop, which includes another eight Okuma models, will take Kerr’s machining, fabrication and paint facility to 8,000 square metres in total, with a further expansion to an additional 2,000 square metre fabrication site nearby set to come.  

Since purchasing Kerr Engineering in 2000, owners David and Mark Kinsman have transformed the company into one of the State’s most advanced engineering shops, today specialising in customised metal work, precision machining and fabrication.  

Mark said Kerr Engineering had concentrated its development on using machines from Okuma Australia for more than 20 years.  

“In doing so we have established a strong partnership with Okuma Australia based on unwavering technical support and the highest quality and stability of the machines,” he said.  

“There is always an air of excitement within our engineers when a new machining centre is commissioned as this allows them to constantly up-skill on the latest technological advances in the machines capability and programming.”  

David said the company made a significant investment in the latest equipment and technology over the last five years, with more than 35 machines in service today.  

He added that the Okuma double column machining centre would provide Kerr Engineering with a suite of job opportunities for its workforce of more than 90 personnel, with five to six apprentices under training at any time. 

He also praised Okuma’s decision to establish a community in the Okuma Double Column Club, a hub that allows Okuma customers in Australia and New Zealand to collaborate, share knowledge and build valuable industry connections within the local manufacturing landscape. 

Okuma’s Western Australian branch manager John Dale said he was pleased to be part of Kerr’s ongoing success story.  

“Combining cutting-edge technology with comprehensive service, training and support is what sets us apart,” he said.  

“This is exciting and rewarding for us all.”