What's Been Happening Lately?

Canopy Hub Newsletter - November Edition

At Canopy Hub, we're dedicated to nurturing a sustainable workforce for Queensland's forest and timber industry. Thanks to the Queensland Government Workforce Connect Fund, we're able to offer free programs to school students, school leavers and job seekers eager to kickstart their careers in this dynamic field. We're thrilled to bring you the latest updates on what's been happening recently!

Fostering Tomorrow's Industry Leaders - Grow, Harvest, Process School Tour

In August, we had the privilege of hosting an enlightening Grow, Harvest, Process school tour for students from the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre. This initiative provided a first-hand glimpse into the intricacies of the forest and timber industry supply chain. It was a day brimming with inspiration, highlighting the numerous opportunities available such as; vocational education opportunities, apprenticeships, traineeships, and all the different career prospects available in each sector.

Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre Students at Tuan Forest with HQPlantations on the Grow, Harvest, Process Tour

So how do our plantations work and how is it sustainable?

Grow, harvest, process, repeat. The life cycle of a plantation follows these four steps which ensure a sustainable future for our forests. First, it starts in well-managed forests where tiny seedlings kick off their journey. These forests aren't just random patches of trees; they're carefully planned and tended to. As these seedlings grow into mature trees, they play a vital role in soaking up carbon dioxide and supporting the health of our environment.

Plantations take 30-40 years to grow and during this time, trees are maintained to produce high quality timber.

Once the trees are responsibly harvested, they make their way to sawmills. Skilled workers there transform the raw timber into various useful materials, from planks for construction to the wood in your furniture.

It's the continuous cycle of growth that makes plantation forest management so sustainable. These new seedlings grow into mature trees, are harvested, and the cycle starts all over again. We never harvest more than we can grow.

So, it's not just about using timber; it's about doing it sustainably and making sure there's always more growing for the future. It's a simple and smart way to ensure everyone has the materials they need while also taking care of the environment.

A Day in the Life of a Nursery Manager - Interview

Have you ever wondered what a day looks like for someone working in our industry? In this interview, we speak to Leisa Overs, a Nursery Manager to explore their responsibilities, daily tasks, and the challenges they tackle head-on. It's a peek into one of the diverse and fulfilling careers our industry has to offer.

What are the responsibilities of your position?

I plan nursery operations based on our company’s planting requirements for the year. I develop and manage the nursery budget; I organise nursery labour and manage worker performance. I am responsible for planning each operation and making sure it is conducted on time and to the required standards. I manage irrigation scheduling and develop pest and disease management plans. I am responsible for updating procedures and safety documentation. I manage our stewardship obligations to make sure we are complying with our certification requirements. I manage contracts with our contractors and organise service contractors when required.

What does a typical day involve?

A typical day involves getting the labour hire workers organised in the morning. Making sure they know what tasks they are doing and ensuring they have been trained in that task before they commence. I will check on labour hire workers throughout the day to make sure they are conducting operations to the required standards.

I will conduct irrigation and plant health checks and if required organise a disease management plan or make changes to the irrigation schedule.

If it is planting season, I will be liaising with our customers and planting contractors to ensure we have the required number of plants ready when they need them.

If there is a breakdown, I will spend part of my day trouble shooting and/or organising service contractors.

I will spend part of my day planning for upcoming tasks, ordering materials, getting quotes, and generating purchase orders.

I conduct toolbox talks with workers, have production meetings with my staff, manage the budget and write reports.

I end each day making sure I have everything organised for the next day’s operations.

What is your favourite aspect of the job?

The best thing about my job is how challenging it is. There is always a new challenge around the corner, which I have to work through, and problem solve. I have never been bored in my role. I have a good mix of office work and hands on work and work with some amazing people who are equally as passionate about their job.

Do you find your job satisfying?

Yes, I find my job satisfying. I enjoy seeing the seedlings I have grown in the nursery grow into mature trees. I love being part of a sustainable industry. It is a full cycle. The potting mix we use comes from the bark of the seedlings we once grew in our nursery.

Explore Career Pathways in the Industry

Curious about the career pathways within our industry? Whether it's forestry management, timber processing, or sustainability roles, there's a place for everyone in the forest and timber industry. See how many there are below!

Want to find out what it's like to work in a hardwood timber mill?

We are currently looking for participants for our Cutting Edge Program, scheduled to take place at DTM Timber mill in Tiaro from 26th Feb to 14th March 2024. This program is delivered in partnership with Max Employment. This unique initiative opens the door to the world of hardwood timber mills, offering a comprehensive training experience tailored for aspiring individuals eager to embark on a rewarding career in the forest and timber industry.

DTM Timber mainly focusses on hardwood logging, sawmilling, timber treatment and structural quality timber distribution and sales. During the Cutting Edge program you will get to experience the hands on work that happens in the sawmills where our naturally grown hardwood species such as spotted gum, red gum and ironbark are processed.

This is a really great opportunity for those looking for some training to get a foot in the door of our great industry! If you are interested in the program, please contact Jeff McIlroy at jeff@timberqueensland.com.au

Get in Touch

Managed by peak industry body Timber Queensland, this project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government Workforce Connect Fund.