Timber NSW and the Clarence Valley timber community lodged thousands of submissions rejecting the Council Biodiversity Advisory Committee’s proposal to ban native forestry in NSW State forests. Sources: Timberbiz, photo Emma Pritchard Clarence Valley Independent
The industry gathered on the steps of Grafton’s Clarence Valley Council chambers to let Council know that the BAC proposal is based on a lack of consultation and a lack of scientific evidence.
It fails to consider the full implications of a ban or even to take into account Council’s own Regional Economic Development Strategy, which names forestry as a leading ‘engine of growth’ for the region.
“Our members and the Clarence Valley community have been the custodians of the forests for generations,” Timber NSW Vice President and GM of Marshall Notaras Hardwoods, Donna Layton, said.
“We’re watching Victoria and WA suffer the catastrophic effects of a ban on native forestry. The Clarence Valley community will not let this happen in NSW.”
The submissions make clear that the Clarence Valley LGA cannot afford – socially, environmentally or economically – to lose an industry at the heart of its community. Timber NSW and its members are detailing not just the implications of a ban, but also the huge benefits of supporting native forestry.
“As an immediate step, we’re inviting all Councillors on a site tour of local timber industry operations, so that they’re better informed,” Ms Layton said.
“We need to combat years of misinformation about native forestry with much closer consultation.
“Secondly, we’re calling for the prompt establishment of a new Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing Advisory Committee at Council. Looking forward, we will ensure our industry has much closer ongoing relations with Council, based on good faith, due process and timely consultation.”
The submissions express the community view that in seeking to move this motion, the Biodiversity Advisory Committee has failed to live up to the standards set out in the Council Charter.
“The community support we’ve received is overwhelming,” Ms Layton said.
“People across the region are angry about the actions of the BAC. We ask the Clarence Valley Council to work collaboratively with us, in support of an environmentally, economically and socially sustainable NSW timber industry.”
