Guy Barnett,Minister for Primary Industries and Water
The Tasmanian Liberal Government recognises that forestry is a cornerstone of our economy and has a key role to play in our plan to rebuild a stronger Tasmania.
Today's release of a series of videos designed to provide support and resources for forestry industry workers highlights that this is a sector where everyone is part of the team and mates stick together, particularly during COVID-19.
The videos focus on the challenges of working from home, going to work during restrictions, job security and mental health and wellbeing.
Fronted by well-known forestry worker and all-round character Josh Turnbull from Neville Smith Forest Products, the videos put aside general pleasantries for a straight-up, yet amusing look at coping as we continue to work towards getting things back to normal.
Josh isn't afraid to man-up and talk about the challenges he has faced working from home like keeping the kids happy, the intent to help with the housework, managing his waistline and missing the motorbike ride to work.
Importantly, we know it's not easy to manage mental health issues or ask for help, so Tom Windsor from Hobart MoBros has also taken part to give some great advice to any workers from the sector who are finding things difficult.
I am extremely proud of the way the forestry industry has adapted to new regulations, rolling up their selves and getting on with the job, ensuring the industry continues to operate throughout the pandemic.
As we transition into more businesses opening up, the forestry sector will continue to help lead Tasmania's recovery, driving investment and providing thousands of jobs, many in regional areas.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is the strongest supporter of our world-class, renewable forestry industry, which contributes around $1.2 billion to the Tasmanian economy and provides thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
The Government will continue to work on behalf of Tasmanian industries and do everything we can to protect Tasmanian forestry jobs.
Whether you work in forestry or not, these are great videos and I encourage everyone to have a look for some great advice at https://bit.ly/wearetastimber-youtube
