Cairns jobs: Engineering firm NEAMCO tells 20 employees of sudden closure

More than 20 staff of a prominent Cairns business have been left unemployed after its shock closure. Find out why here.

More than 20 staff of a prominent Far North business have been left unemployed after its shock closure.

Cairns engineering firm NEAMCO told its workforce of the decision on Friday afternoon, with respected businessman and owner, Ray Fry, announcing his retirement.

NEAMCO spokesman Ralph Cremer said the employees would receive counselling and assistance in the wake of the devastating news.

NEAMCO and former Norship Marine director Ray Fry with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. The former business announced its closure on Friday. Picture: Stewart McLean

“In addition to the employees being paid their entitlements, NEAMCO is providing counselling and career transition support including assistance with resumes and job hunting,” he said.

“The team has enjoyed a very positive work culture at NEAMCO which is reflected in the calibre of the staff who will be an asset to other Cairns employers.”

Mr Fry, the former owner of Norship Marine based in Cairns, Port Hinchinbrook and Darwin,

has managed, owned and operated engineering firms in North Queensland for the last 50 years, re-establishing NEAMCO in 2017.

The company specialises in the manufacture, overhaul and repair of components including engine reconditioning for a range of industries.

Mr Cremer, who has worked with Mr Fry for four decades, said the 75-year-old would find it tough to step back “from the world of engineering”.

“Hundreds of apprentices have started their careers in Cairns at Ray’s engineering companies which have been a significant employer for the region,” he said.

He said he was confident NEAMCO’s workers would be “snapped up” by employers desperate to fill staffing shortages across the region.

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Originally published as Cairns jobs: Engineering firm NEAMCO tells 20 employees of sudden closure