L-R: Timber QLD Chair James Hyne, Bruce Saunders MP, Tony Perrett MP and Mick Stephens Timber QLD CEO
More than forty state parliamentarians joined over 100 industry stakeholders on the 27th of February to launch the Queensland Parliamentary Friends of the Forest and Timber Industry Network at Parliament House in Brisbane.
The event was organized by Timber Queensland and FTMA Australia was pleased to be involved in such a successful night.
Timber Queensland’s Chair James Hyne said this landmark event provided industry an opportunity to showcase its diversity and for MPs to gain a greater appreciation of its bright future.
“Queensland’s $3.2 billion forest and timber industry delivers 25,000 direct and indirect jobs predominately in rural and regional communities,” said Mr Hyne.
“We gathered last night to celebrate our contribution and to show we’ve got room to grow. There are exciting trends in timber innovation and we have significant forest resources that can play a greater role in the state’s economic future,” he said.
The event was co-hosted by Labor MP for Maryborough Mr Bruce Saunders and Liberal National MP for Gympie Mr Tony Perrett, who are both co-chairs of the new network. They were joined by the Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mr Mark Furner, and the Leader of the Opposition Mrs Deb Frecklington.
In their remarks, the co-chairs emphasised the importance of the industry to the state’s historical past as well as its future.
“The sustainable production of timber and fibre products plays an important role within the Queensland economy delivering benefits to Queensland communities. The object of this group is to familiarise Members of the House into the practises engaged to deliver sustainable products from this important industry,” said Mr Saunders.
Mr Perrett said “This parliamentary group is all about celebrating Queensland’s fine tradition as a timber state and we look forward to supporting and growing our forest and timber industries for generations to come.”
James Hyne said he was pleased with the overwhelming response from industry participants and members of parliament who attended the event.
“The wide attendance from all sides of politics was a clear demonstration of their support of our renewable and carbon friendly industry,” said Mr Hyne.
The Parliamentary Friends of Queensland’s Forest and Timber Industry Network will strengthen the industry’s engagement with parliamentarians and state policy makers, and build awareness of the multiple economic, social and environmental benefits it delivers for Queensland.
It was clear on the night, talking to a wide range of industry stakeholders and politicians that there is a desire for a better understanding and support for the timber supply chain.
Congratulations to Mick Stephens, Clarissa Brandt and the Timber Queensland board for a great achievement.