THG

Great Southern High Value Timber Project (North Queensland)

THG were approached by Great Southern with the task of demonstrating that a high value timber project in Tully would benefit the sugar cane industry.  THG looked at the economic and social impact of conducting forestry operations in North Queensland, in particular the impact on the operations of the local sugar mill. 

THG’s report was designed to accompany an application for proposed new forestry areas in the region.  However, there were concerns from those in the sugar industry that this project would result in a fragmentation of the community.  THG’s research indicated that instead of dislocating the locals, this project would bring about greater cohesion.  There were a number of reasons for this:

• The timber plant is a long term project, resulting in higher levels of employment and a diversification of the employment opportunities in the area.
• With increased employment comes increased community infrastructure and improved sense of community spirit.  This is because of a potential increase in the regional population of the area.  With an increase in population comes an increase in the membership of local sporting clubs and groups which contributes to the overall community spirit.
• The forestry operation also gives the local sugar cane farmers employment options and allows them to diversify their skills into alternative industries.
• A large organisation such as Great Southern is able to contribute substantially to improving the environment through carbon sequestration.  By contributing to the environment in this way, the forestry industry is ensuring the longevity of the sugar cane industry – by preserving the environment that is required to grow healthy sugar cane. 

THG were able to provide compelling evidence of the benefits, including social cohesion and employment opportunities, of this project in North Queensland.  As a result, council has approved the applications and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive effect on this local community.