The Tasmanian Liberal Government welcomes the announcement that Hobart-based company SFM has been awarded the contract with New Forests to manage the former Norske Skog forest estate in Southern Tasmania.
As part of the deal, SFM will open a new office in New Norfolk and employ 28 Tasmanians full-time, with more than 100 sub-contracted truck drivers, plant operators and support services providers also employed.
Australian-based international forestry investor New Forests purchased the forest assets from Norkse. New Forests went through an intensive and competitive tender process, with local Hobart-based company SFM the successful proponent.
This new agreement will see up to 400,000 tonnes of pine harvested annually, with the majority still going to the Norske Boyer mill.
SFM has stated they will look to employ a number of the staff who previously managed the estate.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government congratulates New Forests and SFM on this outcome and look forward to working with them in the future.
We recognise that forestry is a cornerstone of our economy and has a key role to play in our plan to rebuild a stronger Tasmania.
The Government is currently facilitating a series of industry round tables for key sectors including agriculture, forestry and resources, to identify challenges and help Tasmanian businesses continue to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We understand that key production and export sectors such as forestry, underpin our economy, create thousands of jobs and support rural and regional communities.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government remains committed to a sustainable forest industry and ensuring the best outcome for the Tasmanian economy, local communities and workers, especially as we work towards recovery from the impacts of COVID-19.
More Media Releases from Guy Barnett
More Media Releases from the Minister for Primary Industries and Water