New production line supporting jobs in Wide Bay’s timber industry

A new $2.2 million production line at DTM Timber in Maryborough will create local jobs and support Wide Bay’s valuable timber industry, with Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien officially opening the project today.

The new equipment will enable the production of laminated timber products, including construction beams, posts, stair treads and flooring, using shorter cuts of timber leftover from DTM Timber’s existing processing facility.

“This is diversification will take advantage of the growing DIY market in Australia and create 10 new jobs, potentially increasing to 20 with increased demand,” Mr O’Brien said.

“By utilising a previous waste product it will also reduce the business’s environmental footprint and the industry’s dependence on imported products.”

The $2,254,743 project received $1,127,371 through the Australian Government’s Regional Jobs and Investment Program, with DTM Timber contributing the remainder.

Mr O’Brien said the project created about six jobs throughout construction, and the benefits of the new project would support ongoing local jobs for years to come.

“For every direct job in Wide Bay’s timber industry, a further three are created in reliant businesses including forestry, engineering, freight and transport, so it will benefit jobs throughout regional supply chain,” he said.

“Sustainable, world-class timber is produced right here in Wide Bay, and we’re committed to ensuring this valuable timber industry remains viable, thrives and creates more jobs into the future.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s $1,127,371 investment in job-creating infrastructure would provide long term benefits to the Maryborough region.

“Following significant modifications to the existing premises and equipment upgrades, Dale and Meyers Operations is now able to manufacture of a variety of laminated hardwood product using waste cuts,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“By supporting six jobs in construction and creating many ongoing positions following completion, this project will help bring economic prosperity to Maryborough for many years to come.”