The Tasmanian State Government has confirmed Macquarie Wharf will replace Triabunna as the South’s major forestry export port, edging closer to a solution for the forest industry’s residues problem. Source: The Mercury
A Government spokesman said between 250,000 to 300,000 tonnes of forestry residue would be exported from the port annually.
However, Forestry Minister Peter Gutwein said there would be no woodchip pile.
“The exports from Macquarie Wharf will be a combination of whole logs in bulk, containerised logs and containerised woodchips,’’ the spokesperson said.
Hobart Lord Mayor Sue Hickey backed the Macquarie Wharf proposal despite admitting it would result in one extra truck movement an hour added to city traffic.
Ald Hickey said the council would work with the Government to manage the movement of trucks through the city, which has been hit by traffic congestion this year.
“It is not going to be a huge increase. I think we are really lucky to have a working port in the city,” she said.
Mr Gutwein said two proposals had been locked in with a third being negotiated.
“This is a great outcome for the industry, for Forestry Tasmania and for the state and shows that there is a bright fut ure for forestry in Tasmania,” he said in a statement.
“While the proposals are commercial-in-confidence, when all negotiations are finalised we will make available what further details we can.
“The options involve exports from Macquarie Wharf and exports from the North respectively. Again, I want to reiterate that there will be no woodchip pile on Macquarie wharf.”
