AN EXPANSION at Hyne Timber in Maryborough is set to create dozens more jobs in the region.
Recruitment is set to commence for an additional 50 jobs at the timber producer.
Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders and Hyne Timber CEO Jon Kleinschmidt announced a $14.5-million expansion project yesterday.
With demand for structural and engineered timber products on the up, the 139-year-old privately owned company is investing for growth and increased capacity to supply products for the Australian construction sector.
NOW READ: Defence Prime chooses Hervey Bay workboat for survey project
Mr Kleinschmidt said expansion plans had accelerated following the commissioning of the company’s news Glue Laminated Timber plant in Maryborough last year.
“Our first stage of expansion was the development and commissioning of a new Glue Laminated Timber plant with the support of the Queensland Government Jobs and Regional Growth grant,” Mr Kleinschmidt said.
He said the company was now in the next stage, which focused on addressing the feedstock bottleneck at the Tuan Mill by installing a continuous drying kiln.
“This means extra shifts and approximately 50 more people to join our team in Maryborough,” Mr Kleinschmidt continued.
“The supply of softwood pine plantation is sustained and expected to increase over coming years from supplier, HQ Plantations. We have also notified our other local suppliers of the increased production and flow on growth for their businesses including Richers Transport, Log Management Solutions, Altus Renewables, Bassett Barks and Laminex.”
“We look forward to working with all our suppliers and customers to grow their businesses, creating more jobs for the region and the increased, sustainable supply of softwood timber solutions for construction.” Mr Kleinschmidt said.
ALSO READ: Direct flights between Sydney and Hervey Bay
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said the Government was proud that the initial investment accelerated the project and created more jobs for the local community.
“This is a Queensland company that is partnering with the government to create jobs for locals when they need them most,” Mr Miles said.
“Our government looks after regional Queensland, and through our $175 million Jobs for Regional Growth Fund program, we are creating jobs all over the state.
“We will continue to back the regions as we Unite and Recover for Queensland jobs.”
In addition to the ongoing direct and indirect job benefits, over $5.5-million worth of work has already been awarded to Wide Bay-based businesses with Hyne Timber committed to supporting local companies where possible.
The Tuan Mill already employs around 210 people and is one of Australia’s largest suppliers of softwood framing, predominantly supplying the housing construction sector. Production will increase by 20% as a result of this investment.
Recruitment is set to commence this week with the first round of training commencing in April.
ALSO READ: Good News Fraser Coast launches online Business Directory