Stratford singer-songwriter and Forest & Wood Communities Australia director Mick Harrington has lashed out at the state government’s decision to cease native timber harvesting by the end of the year.
Mr Harrington, who is also a local timber worker and was a finalist on TV show The Voice said the announcement came as a crippling blow to the industry.
“We have people already on the edge thanks to the 2019 announcement and the relentless assault on sustainable native forestry since then,” he said.
“These are people who have been caring for our forests and ensuring they continue to provide a renewable resource, but are now wondering how to feed their families and keep their homes.
“There has been zero credible scientific evidence to support this decision which comes when we need to embrace renewable resources.
“Internationally forestry is heralded as a climate change solution. But in Australia, where we have the strictest policies governing native timber harvesting, it is derided by unaccountable activism which exists in our universities, media and Labor governments.
“This Andrews government has caved into extremism and academic activism with no thought for people who just want to work hard and support their families.”
It is estimated that native forestry provides 5000 direct jobs and many more indirect jobs providing the lifeblood for regional communities such as Orbost, which stands to lose 37 per cent of its workers.
Forest & Wood Communities Australia is a not-for-profit association representing timber communities and supporters of sustainable, world-certified timber sector.
Mr Harrington also ran for the Nationals in the senate at last year’s federal election.
