Wednesday, 4 September 2019

The Andrews Labor Government has completed planting of a landmark native timber plantation on crown land in the Latrobe Valley.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing today visited the plantation of blue gum seedlings near Maryvale and Yallourn North.

VicForests has planted around 250,000 trees at the site which will now be given 12-15 years to mature before being harvested and made into paper. The plantation was announced in April as part of the Labor Government’s record $110 million investment in plantation timber.

More trees will be planted at additional sites next winter, given favourable seasonal conditions.

The Government is backing the timber industry and the jobs it supports with the development of these new plantation sites in Gippsland and around Victoria.

In April, the Government announced an updated allocation order to provide certainty to timber mills and workers across Victoria and ensure supply in the short-term while a sustainable long-term industry pathway is developed.

The allocation order, which reduced the overall area available for timber harvesting by 5,000 hectares, has not affected VicForests’ ability to meet contracts.

Quotes attributable to the Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“It’s wonderful to be here and see tens of thousands of seedlings taking root.”

“This plantation, as well as others to be planted next winter, provide security and certainty for the timber industry and timber workers.”

“The government’s record $110 million investment in timber looks brilliant up close and we’re continuing to work towards a sustainable, long-term solution for the timber industry that balances job protection with conservation.”