Members statements
Timber industry
Jacinta ERMACORA (Western Victoria) (13:35): The timber industry is innovating and planning for the future in south-west Victoria. I had the opportunity to celebrate the launch of the Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards last week in Portland. The evening was even more of a celebration due to the Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes announcing $500,000 in funding from the Portland Diversification Fund, which she had a role in establishing, to enable the future fibre – hardwood timber manufacturing hub feasibility study; I defy you to say that again. The study will investigate whether structural glue-laminated timber and laminated veneer timber can be produced domestically at scale. These innovative timbers are produced by Warrnambool timber industries and already used widely, including in the construction of the beautiful Melton library. The study will investigate new advanced manufacturing capability in the south-west of Victoria and will facilitate further investment. It is terrific to see the timber industry and the Portland region and community working hard for the future of their community.