Stephanie Hernandez
Dr Stephanie Hernandez has been appointed project manager for the pilot NSW North East Pilot Forestry Hub. Andrew Hurford from Hurford’s Hardwood at Lismore is inaugural president. Source: Timberbiz
Dr Hernandez holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Master of Science from James Cook University Tropical Ecology, has worked in environmental and conservation projects with both Federal and State governments and has recently completed her PhD in statistical forest policy evaluation and planning.
While completing her PhD, Dr Hernandez also worked as a lecturer, science ambassador, and researcher. One of the projects she worked on was spatial modelling and mapping for the National Environmental Science Program.
Most recently she has worked as a social scientist exploring knowledge brokerage and decision pathways for reconciling stakeholder conflicts in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
As a former research scientist, she has significant technical skills in predictive spatial modelling, biological surveying, ecological impact monitoring and in working with large spatial datasets.
The strategic focus of the North East New South Wales Forestry Hub will reflect the diverse nature of the forest types and wood production in region as well as the severe recent impact of bushfire.
The work will be in three streams:
- Climate Change and Adaptive Stewardship of Forests Across the Landscape
- New Timber Supply
- Smart Development of Future Workforce.
“Landholders are currently facing serious challenges as they recover from devastating fires and cope with the pandemic,” Mr Hurford said.
Andrew Hurford
“We welcome Stephanie to the Hub and look forward to working with her to identify regional priorities and progress our industry at this critical time.”
Dr Hernandez’ first priority as the project manager will be to understand the needs and priorities of all stakeholder groups through extensive consultation.
“My aim for the Hub is to become a centre for communication and knowledge sharing,” she said.
“Australia has remarkably sustainable forestry practices, and the Regional Hubs can showcase best-practice on a global stage. It’s a challenging time for this region and together, we need to ensure the industry is prepared for growing demands.”
Dr Hernandez is based on the North Coast and has been travelling across the region to meet with stakeholder groups since October 2020.
She can be contacted via: [email protected]
Hub Advisory Board Members:
President Andrew Hurford (Hurford Hardwood)
Vice-President Cherie Brown (North Haul)
Secretary/Treasurer /Public Officer Maree McCaskill (Timber NSW)
Committee Members
- Stephen Dadd (Boral Timber)
- Mark Wright (SuperForest Plantations)
- Daniel Tuan (Forestry Corporation NSW)
- Steve Dobbyns (Jamax Forest Solutions)
- Lindsay Passfield (National Timber Councils)
