Member for Warren-Blackwood Terry Redman MLA is calling the State Government to action over revelations Nannup Timber Processing Mill is shutting its doors.
Member for Warren-Blackwood Terry Redman MLA is calling the State Government to action over revelations Nannup Timber Processing Mill is shutting its doors.
Mr Redman said the State Government needed to ensure it set up appropriate responses to the closure, with up to 30 people likely to lose their jobs within the next fortnight.
“This comes as a massive blow to the Nannup community, which for many years has relied on employment opportunities created through the timber industry,” he said.
“Initial estimates indicate up to 30 employees will lose their jobs within a very short period of time.
“The Government needs to put an urgent strategy in place to deal with the fallout and make sure these employees and their families have any support and outreach services they may require.”
Mr Redman said the State Government’s poor performance dealing with significant job losses in Ravensthorpe recently gave regional communities little confidence they would receive any economic assistance.
Closure of Nannup’s mill will be the third in the lower South West in less than a year after Auswest consolidated operations to Greenbushes in late 2016, closing operations in Manjimup and Pemberton.
Originally established in 1926 as Kauri Timber Company, it processes sustainable jarrah, karri, marri and blackbutt, producing a number of products including flooring, high grade furniture timber and laminated timber.
Forestry spokesman and Member for the South West Hon Colin Holt MLC, who raised the issue in Parliament today, said a rapid and effective Government response needed to be put in place.
“The new Forestry Minister has done nothing to show the South West timber industry any leadership or support. He needs to visit the affected mill and meet with the workers and the community to help them transition through this difficulty.
“The Labor Party has a dreadful record in the forestry industry and the Minister needs to reassure stakeholders that he will stand up for their interests.”
For media enquiries please contact Terry Redman on 9848 3171 or email terry.redman@mp.wa.gov.au.
