Forestry Centre of Excellence opens new era for Mt GambierFriday 13 Feb 2026
The South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) warmly welcomes the long-term commitment made by the State Government, which worked closely with industry ahead of the 2022 State Election to establish the Forestry Centre of Excellence. The Centre will enhance the global competitiveness of forestry research while creating lasting economic and employment opportunities across the Limestone Coast and beyond. “Too often in regional Australia, we see good ideas announced but never delivered,” said Mr Nathan Paine, Chief Executive Officer of the SAFPA. “Today shows what’s possible when Government listens, commits and follows through, and I wish to thank Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister for Forest Industries, Clare Scriven, for their continued investment and vision for the region.” “The Forestry Centre of Excellence represents a new pathway for innovation, one that connects world-class research with industry, skills and regional leadership,” said Mr Paine. As the birthplace of Australia’s commercial plantation forestry sector, South Australia has a long history of industry leadership. The opening of the Centre reinforces the State’s commitment to future-focused industries grounded in sustainability, innovation and community. More than a physical facility, the Centre is designed to build long-term capability by anchoring research and development in the Limestone Coast. It will also support workforce development, ensuring future foresters, processors, engineers and scientists are trained locally for local jobs. Mount Gambier is the beating heart of Australia’s softwood manufacturing sector, processing a significant share of Australia’s housing timbers, packaging fibre and agricultural products. With the establishment of the Forestry Centre of Excellence, Mount Gambier further cements its status as a hub of forestry expertise and leadership for national and international thought leaders. “The Centre brings together applied research, workforce development, innovation and regional leadership in one location, sending a strong message well beyond Mount Gambier,” continued Mr Paine. “It underscores the role of regional industries in South Australia’s economic growth and decarbonisation future and demonstrates the outcomes that can be achieved when Government and industry work together toward shared goals,” concluded Mr Paine. Source: SAFPA  | ||
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