MERRETT Logging employees will be able to conduct cross-border duties with the company’s forestry workers deemed essential travellers in the primary industry sector.
Despite needing to reapply for all cross-border staff as a result of the looming changes as of today, wood flow manager Matt Tilby said the approvals were a step in the right direction.
Three truck drivers, all Merrett Logging employees, were recently ordered into a mandatory two-week quarantine due to confusion over the border measures, despite not coming into contact with Victorians.
The drivers travelled around 60km into Victoria at a time when a 50km travel radius had been introduced, admitting their error when re-entering South Australia.
Mr Tilby said the week’s notice of Friday’s change to further border restrictions was welcomed as it allowed management to organise staff conditions.
“There are no job losses for us and it keeps all our jobs which is great and keeps everyone employed which we are happy about,” Mr Tilby said.
“We were concerned that workers would have to come home and isolate even though they are isolated in their work but we are happy they can go ahead with their day to day life and will continue their weekly COVID-19 tests.”
Although staff at the business are predominantly South Australian, Mr Tilby said there were a select few who travel.
“It has been quite a challenge as far as living so close to the border and having employees from both sides,” he said.
“We are looking to adjust to try and have as many Victorian staff working on that side of the border as we can but it could still present issues as far as mechanics because maintenance of the machinery is essential.”
