A study to better understand the economic benefits generated by the timber harvest and haulage contractors in the South East of South Australia has been funded by the SA Government. Source: Timberbiz
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said the contractors were vital to the forestry sector in the Green Triangle, but this study would assist in understanding their full significance.
“The Marshall Liberal Government knows there is great value in this sector – not just for this region but for the whole state – and this study will help to quantify this benefit to assist in future policy work,” Mr Basham said.
“Information gathered during the study will be a combination of publicly available data and information from harvest and haulage contractors, gathered with the assistance of the Green Triangle Forest Contractors Group.
“Approximately eight million trees are planted in the SA forestry industry every year.
“South Australia has a $2 billion forestry industry with 172,000 hectares of softwood and hardwood plantations producing a wide range of timer products for domestic use and export.
“The Green Triangle is a world-renowned timber production region.
“It is important that we have the best information about all parts of the timber supply chain.
“This study will also ensure there is a clear understanding of the factors make for a sustainable contracting sector.”
Chair of the Green Triangle Forest Contractors Group, Wendy Fennell welcomed the study.
“A profitable harvest and haul sector is integral to the timber industry in the green triangle,” Ms Fennell said.
“We welcome this study; it will provide timely information about what factors make a profitable and thriving harvest and haulage contracting sector as part of the timber supply chain in the Green Triangle.”
