The Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association has welcomed the new forestry training centre to be established at the University of Tasmania.
TFGA president Wayne Johnston said it was welcome news after the recent closure of the Cooperative Research Centre for Forestry on the Hobart campus.
“There can be no doubt that Tasmania has research expertise in silviculture and timber production that is unparalleled anywhere else in the country,” Mr Johnston said.
“We had been in danger of losing it”.
“The key to the new $14 million institution announced this week is that it is looking outside the traditional parameters. It will be looking at new industries and fresh approaches to wood products.”
The TFGA represents private forest owners, responsible for about 880,000 ha of the state’s forest cover.
“This is particularly welcome news for those of us who still see a great future in timber production,” Mr Johnston said.
TFGA president Wayne Johnston
