Murray Region Forestry Hub

17/12/2024

🌿 Tackling the Blackberry Challenge: Insights from the Murray Region Forestry Hub 🌿

The Murray Region Forestry Hub (MRFH) has taken a significant step forward in addressing the widespread impact of blackberry infestations within the Hub region. Through two comprehensive reports, we’ve analyzed the economic, environmental, and production losses caused by Blackberry a W**d of National Significance.

📖 Key Highlights

🔍 Over 40 stakeholders, including landholders, industry representatives, and government agencies, contributed their expertise to these reports.

📉 Blackberry infestations cost softwood plantations in the region approximately $42M/year, with a broader economic impact of $306M/year.

🌱 Current management strategies rely heavily on chemical treatments, raising environmental concerns and emphasizing the need for a robust, well-researched biocontrol solution.

🌏 Blackberries don’t just affect production—they limit land access and threaten biodiversity, ecosystem services, and even regional industries like tourism and grazing.

📌 Recommendations for Government
✔️ Reevaluate the coordination and effectiveness of w**d management agencies.
✔️ Align w**d funding strategies with national priorities, including the significance of softwood plantations for housing.
✔️ Invest in genomic mapping and biocontrol research—cost-effective solutions compared to ongoing economic losses.
✔️ Conduct a national-scale analysis of blackberry impacts across all land uses.

The journey doesn’t end here! A regional strategy is underway, informed by these reports and outcomes from the Strategic Blackberry Forum held on 31 October 2024. Together, we can take a long-term, collective approach to manage this challenge.

📑 Want to learn more? View the Murray Region Forestry Hub Blackberry Impacts Project Report to see how coordinated efforts can turn the tide against blackberry infestations. Let’s work towards sustainable land use and productive landscapes!

View here 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/3VHAKBw

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**dManagement

27/11/2024

📢 Exciting Leadership Announcement!

The Softwoods Working Group (SWG) is thrilled to welcome Dean Anderson as its new Chair! With over 40 years of forestry industry experience across Australia and beyond, Dean brings exceptional expertise and dedication to the role. 🌱

Dean's impressive career includes senior roles in commercial operations, natural forest management, environmental assessment, and plantation management. He has also played critical roles during state-significant bushfire emergencies and was awarded the National Emergency Medal for his contributions during the 2019/20 Black Summer fires.

We look forward to Dean leading SWG into a future focused on sustainable growth, fire protection, w**d control, and advocating for the many benefits of softwood plantations.

A huge thank you to Peter Crowe OAM for his 37 years of outstanding service as Chair. Peter’s legacy will be honored as he steps into the role of Chair Emeritus.

📖 Read the full media release here👉🏼 https://zcu.nz/wPZD?m=0

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15/11/2024

🌲 A Champion Retires 🌲

After an incredible 65 years of dedication to Australia’s forest industries, Peter Crowe OAM is retiring as Chair of the Softwoods Working Group (SWG).

Since joining SWG in 1987, Peter has been a driving force in advancing sustainable forestry, fostering collaboration, and championing innovation. His leadership has left an indelible mark on the industry, strengthening its economic and environmental sustainability.

SWG Executive Officer, Carlie Porteous, praised Peter’s unwavering commitment, stating: "His passion and vision have shaped the future of softwoods in Australia."

Peter reflects proudly on his career: "I’ve had the privilege of working in a vibrant, renewable industry alongside incredible people, contributing to regional Australia’s development."

Thank you, Peter, for your remarkable service. Your legacy will continue to inspire! 🙌

11/11/2024

🌱 Weathering the Dry in Snowy Valleys – Community Forum 🌱

Join Alpine Valleys Community Leadership for a FREE community forum focused on building strength and collaboration during drier times. Led by Jingellic’s own Mary Hoodless, this event will explore how we can adapt, thrive, and leverage the unique strengths of the Snowy Valleys.

Whether you're a farmer, business owner, or local resident, this forum is for everyone—because we’re all impacted by changing conditions. Let’s come together to share ideas, support one another, and take a community-led approach to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Key Topics Include:
✅ Harnessing local strengths: industries, culture & landscapes
✅ Adapting to change: learning from the past to thrive in the future
✅ Supporting community well-being: mental health & connection
✅ Workshop: Early insights from the regional well-being survey

When & Where?
📅 Thursday 14 November | 5pm–8pm at Pilot Hill
📅 Friday 15 November | 9am–4:30pm at Batlow Literary Institute

🍽️ Free event with catering provided! Attend one or both days.

🔗 Registrations essential: https://bit.ly/snowyvalleys

Let’s shape our future together! 💪

04/11/2024

🎉 Honoring a Legend in the Forestry Industry! 🎉

On Friday night, we gathered in Albury with colleagues and friends to celebrate the remarkable career of Mr. Peter Crowe, OAM, as he steps into retirement from the Softwoods Working Group and Murray Region Forestry Hub.

With over 30 years of dedicated service, Peter has been an invaluable contributor not only to our group but to the entire forestry industry in Australia. His expertise, leadership, and commitment have left an indelible mark on our community.

It was a wonderful evening filled with laughter, memories, and gratitude, honoring Peter’s legacy and the impact he’s had on so many of us. Here’s to a well-deserved retirement, Peter! Thank you for everything you've done. 🌲🌳

30/08/2024

🌲 Edition #2 - August 2024 | Murray Region Forestry Newsletter 🌲

Welcome to the latest edition of the Murray Region Forestry newsletter!

Our team at MRFH is committed to keeping you updated on the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in this vital sector and the communities that support it. Look out for political and policy updates, funding opportunities, and more.

Your input matters to us! We encourage you to share your thoughts and suggestions so we can continue to strengthen our forests, our industry, and the communities we serve.

Thank you for being part of our community. Enjoy this edition of our newsletter! 🌱

Read here 👉🏼 https://zcu.nz/WOiX?m=0

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28/08/2024

Read full media release 👉 https://zcu.nz/ph9s?m=0

🌲 SWG Welcomes NSW Government’s Forest Industry Action Plan 🌲

The Softwoods Working Group (SWG) welcomes the NSW Government’s Forest Industry Action Plan and its commitment to the community, workers, and the industry.

SWG Chair Peter Crowe OAM praised the appointment of Peter Duncan AM as Chair of the Independent Forestry Panel, noting his valuable experience in strategic infrastructure and primary industries.

The South West Slopes, NSW's largest softwood processing area, is crucial to the region’s economy. With over $3 billion in output and 11,000 jobs, SWG is ready to offer expert advice as the plan is developed.

SWG Executive Officer Carlie Porteous emphasized the importance of a robust stakeholder engagement process, ensuring the industry has a key role in shaping the final plan.

Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and register their interest at 👉 https://bit.ly/3Xmzq8j

Read full media release 👉 https://zcu.nz/ph9s?m=0
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20/08/2024

🌲 Happy National Forestry Day! 🌲

Today, we celebrate the incredible work our members and the broader forest industry do to combat climate change, support our economy, and produce the sustainable products Australians rely on every day.

From timber house-frames to paper cups, Australia's forestry supply chain is essential, creating climate-friendly items we can't live without! 🌍

With 80,000 direct jobs and 100,000 indirect jobs, many in rural areas, this $24 billion sector is vital to our nation. This year's theme, Nature’s Carbon Store, highlights our role in storing carbon and helping Australia achieve its net-zero goals.

As demand for timber and wood fibre is set to quadruple by 2050, our sector leads the world in sustainable forest management, setting an example with careful replanting and environmental practices. 🌳

Whether it’s the timber in your home or the cardboard box from your latest delivery, Australia's forest products are the backbone of so many everyday items.

Celebrate with us and support sustainable forestry!

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Hyne Timber AKD Softwoods Albury City Council HVP Plantations The Australian National University Australian Forest Contractors Association AFCA TAFE NSW Visy Dr Joe McGirr MP TUR Snowy Valleys Council Greater Hume Council
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Australian Forest Products Association Responsible Wood Australian Forests & Timber News Forestry Australia Regional Development Australia Murray ForestLearning Gippsland Forestry Hub Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub Susan Benedyka Transport for NSW City of Wagga Wagga Regional Development Australia Riverina ForestWorks

24/07/2024

UPDATE - The Softwoods Working Group recently held a meeting with stakeholders in Tumut, NSW following the announcement of a $13M forestry funding package by Hon. Minister Moriarty!

This investment aims to protect timber supplies in the Murray region before the 2024/25 bushfire season, supporting fire prevention, detection, and response initiatives.

Key Highlights:

🌲 Create jobs & stimulate economic growth in regional NSW
🔥 Construct fire trails & asset protection zones
👀 Build rapid response with towers, remote sensing, & cameras
🚒 Enhance tactical response with new fire tankers & equipment
🏡 Benefit local communities by enhancing safety & resilience

Stay tuned for more updates on how this funding will protect our forests and communities! 🌲✨

Read more - https://bit.ly/3Wpeegi
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Snowy Hydro
AKD Softwoods

Visy
Hyne Timber
NSW Rural Fire Service
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
valleys council
Australian Forest Products Association
Australian Forest Products Association NSW
Murray Region Forestry Hub
Tara Moriarty MLC
Hume Council

31/05/2024

📰 $13 Million Boost to Protect Critical Timber Supplies 📰

The Softwoods Working Group (SWG) welcomes a $13M forestry funding package to protect timber supplies in the Murray region ahead of the 2024/25 bushfire season.

This funding will support fire prevention, detection, and response initiatives. Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty announced the funding in the Murraguldrie State Forest.

SWG Chair Peter Crowe praised the well-targeted funding, highlighting its importance for fire protection in NSW Murray. SWG Executive Officer Ms. Porteous emphasized the need for future-proofing against fires, referencing the 2019/2020 fires' impact.

Minister Moriarty acknowledged the forestry industry's call for increased fire protection and thanked various councils and agencies for their input.

Independent Member for Wagga Wagga Dr. Joe McGirr also welcomed the announcement, supporting efforts to protect plantations from bushfires.

READ FULL RELEASE 👉🏼 https://zcu.nz/W2iK?m=0
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Hyne Timber AKD Softwoods Albury City Council HVP Plantations The Australian National University Australian Forest Contractors Association AFCA TAFE NSW Visy Visy Dr Joe McGirr MP TUR Snowy Valleys Council Greater Hume Council
Australian Forest Products Association Responsible Wood Australian Forests & Timber News Forestry Australia Regional Development Australia Murray ForestLearning Gippsland Forestry Hub Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub Greater Hume Council Susan Benedyka Transport for NSW Tara Moriarty MLC City of Wagga Wagga Regional Development Australia Riverina ForestWorks Australian Forest Products Association NSW

14/05/2024

🌳🏫 Proud to share the heartwarming story of Rosewood State School! 🌟

For years, Rosewood has been a hub of learning and a beacon in the forest industry. With over 80 alumni thriving in this field, it's a testament to their impact.

Recently, they faced a safety concern next to their grounds—a plantation turned hazard. But in true community fashion, industry leaders and local heroes stepped up.

Thanks to our members Hyne, Bergins, Visy, Southern Cross Forests, and Lehmans, the area is now safe for kids to play. But it doesn't stop there!
Plans are brewing to turn this space into an educational haven, complete with school animals. 🐾💡

The support doesn't end—funds are pouring in to make this dream a reality.
This is more than a cleanup—it's a story of unity, generosity, and dedication to our youngest members. Let's celebrate and inspire others to make a difference!

Read more 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/4alykg4

Story - Timberbiz
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.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

13/02/2024

🔄 Going around in circles takes on a whole new perspective at Tumut!

🌞Visy's impressive stacker reclaimer in action is pretty impressive especially against the backdrop of stunning weather.

🌲 Australia's first of its kind, this marvel has revolutionized wood chip storage, extending it from 6 to 22 days. Ensuring a more sustainable future for the softwood forestry industry! 🌿

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.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

23/11/2023

🔥🌲 The Black Summer bushfires of 2019/20 were absolutely devastating to the softwood plantation industry of the Murray Region. 🌲🔥

It did however bring out the absolute cooperation and collaboration of the industry which has been studied thanks to the Murray Region Forestry Hub. A world first report has explored the socio-economic impacts of the successful recovery and salvage of wood during this time.

📢 The Softwoods Working Group is proud to share a media release shedding light on the key findings and insights. Dive into the details of this extraordinary journey and discover the strength of an industry that rose from the ashes. 📰🌱

🔗 Read full Media Release 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/46toHKy

🔗 Access Full Report 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/46r6Nba

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🌿🌍


.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

22/08/2023

🌲🌿 Celebrating National Forestry Day today Tuesday, August 22nd at the serene National Foresters’ Grove in Lavington. 🌳🌱

The Murray Region Forestry Hub (MRFH) and the Softwoods Working Group (SWG) kicked the day off with a heartwarming tree-planting ceremony followed by a delightful morning tea today at National Foresters’ Grove Lavington.

National Forestry Day is a tribute to the forest industry's tireless efforts in battling climate change, generating employment opportunities, and crafting coveted products like house frames, cardboard boxes, and even eco-friendly paper straws—all sourced sustainably.

Let's unite on this National Forestry Day to applaud the forest industry's remarkable achievements and its pivotal role in building a sustainable future for all. 🌳🌎🏡

Read more @ https://bit.ly/45iOu8q



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Hyne Timber AKD Softwoods Albury City Council HVP Plantations The Australian National University Australian Forest Contractors Association AFCA TAFE NSW Visy Dr Joe McGirr MP TUR Snowy Valleys Council Greater Hume Council
Department of Planning and Environment Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Australian Forest Products Association Responsible Wood Australian Forests & Timber News Forestry Australia Regional Development Australia Murray ForestLearning Gippsland Forestry Hub Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub Greater Hume Council Susan Benedyka Consulting Transport for NSW Justin Clancy MP City of Wagga Wagga Regional Development Australia Riverina

03/08/2023

🌳 New Leadership, New Horizons 🌳

Exciting times ahead for WoodSolutions! Congratulations Kevin Peachey, the newly appointed Head of Built Environment Programs at Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA) and the lead for WoodSolutions Program. 🎉

With a wealth of experience in the industry, Kevin's passion and expertise make him the perfect fit to lead the WoodSolutions Team. He has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and understanding within the sector, and now, he's eager to take WoodSolutions to new heights. 🚀

Joining forces with Karl-Heinz Weiss, an esteemed industry consultant known for his work in engineered timber, Kevin will be evaluating and expanding the program's strategy and objectives. Together, they aim to empower the design and build industry with valuable practical information on timber usage. 🏗️

WoodSolutions has been a reliable resource for the industry for over 12 years, consistently evolving to meet users' needs. From bringing CPD presentations online during the pandemic to organizing international study tours, the team is committed to promoting timber innovation in construction. 🌍

Collaboration with FWPA members and industry stakeholders is central to the program's mission of facilitating informed decision-making about wood and wood products in the built environment. Together, let's shape a sustainable and exciting future for construction. 🏡💚

Learn more 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/3ODpSkT



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.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

03/08/2023

🌿 The Ultimate Renewable Reignited 🌿

Exciting news! The latest edition of The Ultimate Renewable campaign is set to launch across Australia from August 20! 📅 This $1.8 million initiative focuses on the journey from seedlings to the final wood product, promoting the incredible transgenerational benefits of wood. 🌳

This year, the campaign challenges consumer perceptions of forestry by showcasing harvested and replanted trees, reinforcing the message that wood is, indeed, The Ultimate Renewable resource. 💚

And guess what? The charismatic Adam Dovile, the renowned builder and TV presenter, will once again be the campaign's ambassador! 🎥

The campaign extends its focus from construction to include the entire journey of wood, from planting to utilization. 🌱 Accompanied by captivating videos and images of forestry and children in wood-rich environments, it conveys the importance of growing and using more certified wood to tackle climate change for future generations. 🌍

Together, let's champion sustainability and amplify The Ultimate Renewable message! 🙌

Learn more 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/3DDL6sm

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.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

24/07/2023

🌳🌲 Exciting News for the Forest and Timber Industry in the Murray Region! 🌳🌲

The Murray Region Forestry Hub has taken a significant step towards shaping the future of our industry! 🚀 ForestWorks was engaged to conduct a comprehensive study to assess the current and future workforce skills and training needs within our region's forestry and wood products sector.

This study aims to identify essential areas for improvement, address workforce gaps, and pinpoint skill needs for the industry's sustainable growth. 📚 Additionally, it delves into the challenges faced in attracting, recruiting, and retaining skilled workers in our vibrant sector.

By analysing data from Hub-wide surveys and drawing insights from the 2021 Census, the report sheds light on critical information that will help us understand our strengths and areas of development. 💪 Our collective goal is to build a skilled and safe workforce that will contribute to the long-term success of the industry.

This report is a valuable resource for shaping strategies and forming partnerships with educational institutions and governments to meet the industry's training and skill requirements. 🤝 It's essential to align our actions with the sector's current and future goals, and this study provides the necessary insights to achieve that.

As members of the Forest and Timber Industry in the Murray Region, let's celebrate this milestone and stay tuned for the exciting opportunities and developments that lie ahead! 🎉 Together, we can foster a dynamic and thriving workforce in our region.



Read full report 👉🏼 https://bit.ly/3XZgtai



.asn.au
-GundagaiRegionalCouncil -memberforalbury

21/07/2023

Congratulations to Kristina Kaminski on her appointment as the new Site Manager of the Hyne Timber's Tumbarumba Mill! 🎉

Since joining the company in February 2023 as the Mill's Operations Manager, Kristina has consistently demonstrated her exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to safety and sustainability. Now, as the first female to hold the position of Site Manager, she is breaking barriers and inspiring us all.

Under Kristina's guidance, she can expect even greater achievements and advancements in the mill's operations. Her expertise in high-paced manufacturing will undoubtedly drive Hyne's success to new heights. Congratulations Kristina!

This appointment marks a significant milestone for Hyne Timber as they continue to foster gender diversity and promote inclusive leadership within their organisation. Kristina's success is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Join us in celebrating Kristina Kaminski's well-deserved promotion and wishing her all the best in her new role as Site Manager. 🌟



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AKD Softwoods Albury City Council HVP Plantations The Australian National University Australian Forest Contractors Association AFCA TAFE NSW Visy Dr Joe McGirr MP The Ultimate Renewable Snowy Valleys Council Greater Hume Council
Department of Planning and Environment Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Australian Forest Products Association Responsible Wood Australian Forests & Timber News Forestry Australia Regional Development Australia Murray ForestLearning Gippsland Forestry Hub Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub Greater Hume Council Susan Benedyka Consulting Transport for NSW Justin Clancy MP City of Wagga Wagga Regional Development Australia Riverina