Mechanised Logging (MechLog) has embarked on an ambitious training program to take the Tasmanian-based, national forestry company from ‘Good to Great’ with the assistance of the Tasmanian Government, Rural Business Tasmania, and Good to Great Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz
Speaking about the initiative, MechLog’s CEO, Ms Jillian Aylett Brown, said that since the company commenced operations in 1994 it has prioritised training and development; and that programs such as Good to Great offer SMEs an opportunity to empower and recognise the full potential of every employee.
“We are fortunate that most of our staff have been with MechLog for many years; some from the very beginning. This is not simply good luck. Over the years, we have identified career paths for our staff and encouraged and supported them to improve their skills and to take on more responsibility. The reward is more than a better paypacket. The reward is a sense of empowerment and being valued,” Ms Aylett Brown said.
“MechLog has grown to a point whereby we need to look to the future. We started as a Northeast Tasmania-based company, but we have grown to have significant operations across the State and in the Green Triangle on the South Australia-Victoria border.
“As the company continues to grow, we need our staff to be able to grow with us and to be trained and ready for the challenges ahead. Good to Great is the start of that process,” she said.
MechLog has accessed a $15,000 grant through the Tasmanian Government’s $500,000 Forest Contractors Resilience program delivered by Rural Business Tasmania which will be used to participate in the Good to Great leadership program.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, the Hon Guy Barnett, said that the Tasmanian Government is the strongest supporter of the forestry sector and that it is committed to protecting and building the industry as the economy recovers after COVID-19.
“COVID-19 has created significant challenges for many industries, including forestry, and on July 15 I met with industry representatives to discuss these issues in a Forestry Roundtable,” Minister Barnett said.
“We are pleased to announce that the Forestry Contractor Resilience Program will be extended from July 31, 2020 to January 29, 2021 to further support Tasmanian forestry contractors.
“Under the program, Tasmanian forestry harvest and haulage contractors have the opportunity to work with specialists in business and financial management to identify future opportunities and build stability and resilience into their operations.
“Eligible applicants will receive five hours of professional business coaching and may also be eligible for up to $15,000 to deliver agreed business improvements,” Minister Barnett said.
The Good to Great Leaders program is a comprehensive five-days over five-months program, which allows the participants to share real workplace experiences and situations, creating an active learning environment with open conversations and honest peer feedback.
The Program guidelines and application form are available from Rural Business Tasmania at www.ruralbusinesstasmania.org.au or by contacting Mr Stephen Hansen on 1300 883 276.
