McKay Timber expansion a sign of further confidence

The McKay family’s multi-million dollar redevelopment and expansion of their Bridgewater sawmill is another sign of confidence in the future of Tasmania’s forestry industry.

“The Liberal Government is committed to supporting the forest industry and I congratulate the McKay family on this investment in the Bridgewater sawmill,” Premier Will Hodgman said.

“This $2.25 million investment is the second and final stage of a total $5.25 million redevelopment and secures jobs for about 10 Tasmanian timber workers.

“McKay Timbers is a great Tasmanian business that has been operating for 47 years, but, like my Government, has confidence in a brighter future for the forest industry, and the jobs it creates.”

Minister for Resources Paul Harriss said McKay Timber received $1 million in Federal Government funding toward the redevelopment.

“Today’s announcement is a further sign of the green shoots we are starting to see in the broader forest industry,” Mr Harriss said.

“The Government is unflinching in its support of the Forest Industry and we have already secured 50 jobs through the Government’s changes to the Sawmill Assistance Program to keep mills open and Tasmanians in work.

“This Government has a Plan for the forest industry to thrive without the need for Government assistance and through the hard work and dedication of operators like McKay, we are ensuring we have a sustainable, long-term industry into the future.”
Will Hodgman, Premier Paul Harriss, Minister for Resources