ACCESS to timber resources and competing with export markets were two key issues flagged with Federal Assistant Forestry Minister Jonathon Duniam during a tour of the South East.
The Tasmanian Senator was joined by Barker MP Tony Pasin on a regional tour on Thursday to meet with forestry industry stakeholders and discuss strengths and challenges.
He started the whole-day tour at Yahl’s Timberland Pacific nursery before visiting the Fennell Forestry operation at Caroline to discuss harvesting activities.
Mr Duniam also met with representatives from Tarpeena’s Timberlink mill, South East Pine Sales and Bio Gro.
He said the government was intent on accelerating the growth of agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries to $100b by 2030.
The newly appointed minister said hearing from stakeholders from every end of the production chain was imperative in developing policies and reaching the ambitious target.
“I thought it was very important to hear from the industry first hand because they are the ones of the ground dealing with all the market forces,” Mr Duniam said.
“One of the key issues was access to resources and competing with export markets is something we need to look at.
“There are also issues around water use, expanding our plantation estate and of course, workforce issues and career pathways are also important.”
Mr Duniam said the government’s role included focusing on maximising the competitive advantages of the traditional forestry region to support the industry’s growth.
“The simplest thing to do is to grow the industry and make sure there are more resources,” he said.
“In terms of competing with export markets, there must be models we can look to if we are going to get the best of our industry.”
Mr Pasin said he deliberately designed the whole-day visit to provide the minister with a “full forestry experience” ranging from the region’s pine nursery, plantation to sawmilling.
“It was very important he understands how critical this industry is to the Green Triangle region,” he said .
