Carlie Porteous
As Supreme Court Judge Richards handed down her initial decision of Friday 4 November requiring an unworkable process for merchantable wood production my heart sank.
Once ‘that call’ was received, I hoped I’d have enough courage for my members not to get emotional. I didn’t.
This decision, says a few things about the state of Victoria
- National best practice and good evidence is not something this court cares about, or this government.
- People don’t matter, especially in the regions. We will have two more threatened species as a result of this decision. The beautiful communities that still ‘make stuff’ in this state, and the hard-working men and women that support this economy, not to mention the up to 100k flow on businesses in Victoria.
- This state no longer wants viable industries that generate GDP. Given the unbelievable amount of state debt, more than SA, NSW and Qld combined, it beggars’ belief the government would continue to shut down the very industries that generate its much needed income.
- The country and state have a housing and wood shortage crisis yet a sustainable certified industry can be brought to its knees overnight.
- Votes count more than a government with integrity and balls.
I work for some of the ‘toughest’ people, third, fourth and fifth generation loggers. The people that run into the fire, not away from it. Protect their communities and volunteer. These aren’t emotional folk, yet they have been brought to their absolute knees.
Members from across the state, as well as directors from the AFCA Board met on Friday. The amount of revenue generated in that room alone was huge. The amount secured by personal assets, like family homes, just as much. All of it now hanging on a vote.
Covid numbers are increasing in Victoria significantly. But is the Andrew’s government ready for the silent pandemic; the mental health crisis in these timber towns, communities, hardworking people. Hard working people that ‘make stuff, grow stuff’.
I implore Victorians to think about what sort of state they are going to vote for. One that makes stuff, generates revenue, values the regions, values humans. Or, what we have now.
Carlie Porteous is General Manager, Australian Forest Contractors Association
