Educating the timber industry of the future

NATIONAL

Reliable Product Source… Timber Supply

Educating the timber industry of the future

Inconsistent timber supply continues and unfortunately will present issues in the years ahead, in part, as a result of lack of insights and planning for future needs of Australia’s forest industries across the full value chain.

“Australia’s forest industries are responsible for 120,000 jobs across the full value chain and are worth $24 billion to the Australian economy annually. It’s vital that politicians, candidates and political parties take notice of the industry’s needs. This applies especially to candidates in electorates where forest industries are prominent in the economy”.1

In attempting to secure certain aspects of timber supply and prepare for long term future requirements the federal government recently backed the Regional Forest Agreements (Vic). The Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs) underpin the certainty for industry, with proposed five-year reviews, and desirable state by state consultation.

OneFortyOne is a leading Australian wood products business producing and distributing a large range of timber products from their sawmills located in Mount Gambier, South Australia a key supply source for many MGA TMA members.

Their plantation is located within what is known as the ‘green triangle’ regions and as reflected in its name, it is one of Australia’s major forest regions. It is the largest softwood plantation in the region, comprising more than 80,000 hectares. Sustainable forest management epitomises the very ethos of OneFortyOne. Their estate and management practices are recognised as being best practice, and that endorsement is sealed through their independent certification to the Australian Forest Certification Standard (AS4708-2013).

MGA TMA is very pleased to announce the appointment of OneFortyOne as the first industry MGA TMA corporate partner.

1 Source: Ross Hampton AFPA (Australian Forest Products Australia) CEO

AFPA is the peak national industry body representing the resources, processing and pulp, paper and bioproduct industries covering the forest products value chain. AFPA represents all elements of the value chain from sustainable harvesting of plantation and multiple use natural forest resource including forest establishment and management, harvesting and haulage, processing of timber resources and manufacturing.

Like any industry, the timber and hardware category relies heavily on the credibility, experience and knowledge of its workforce for future growth and survival.

MGA TMA have recently launched a much needed, series of necessary Timber Product Knowledge Seminars supported by industry experts in providing regular basic timber training for members.

The first of these sessions was held at the end of May and exceeded expected participation with a full house. Keen support has been offered for future planned dates. Aspects of these sessions cover topics such as:

• Timber industry supply chain – forest to market • Certification and legal and sustainable timber supply • Timber grades and markings • Timber product sizing and specifications • Storing of timber

These sessions are a very important aspect to MGA TMA membership and provide a unique dedicated service for members.