Southern Cross University provides boost for forestry industry

Southern Cross University will offer a four-year forestry degree program in Mt Gambier from 2006 in response to industry demand, providing increased opportunities for forestry workers and school leavers in the Green Triangle Region.

The commitment by Southern Cross University comes after requests from forestry industry representatives, who identified a severe skills shortage and lack of educational opportunities in the region.

Southern Cross University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Clark said the introduction of the program would provide increased opportunities for school leavers, forestry workers, the industry and the University.

"We are pleased to be able to respond to calls from the industry to provide a program that has a strong focus on sustainable production forestry," Professor Clark said.

Professor Jerry Vanclay, Chair of Forestry at Southern Cross University, said that one of the most pressing issues facing the industry was the lack of qualified foresters.

"Forestry companies are currently going overseas to recruit staff because of the skills shortage, and they expect their recruitment to increase during the next few years. We are hoping to help address this shortage and at the same time increase the opportunities for students and workers in the Green Triangle Region," Professor Vanclay said.

"Southern Cross University's forestry program has a reputation for providing industry-relevant training, with an emphasis on sustainable resource management and commercial wood production."

The University has completed a feasibility study for the program and has received strong support from industry, the Federal member for Barker, Mr Patrick Secker, the Federal member for Wannon, the Hon David Hawker, State member for Mount Gambier and Minister for Forests, the Hon Rory McEwen, Mt Gambier City Council, District Council of Grant, Wattle Range Council (Vic), Glenelg Council (Vic), other education providers and the community.

The program will be delivered through a mix of face-to-face and external teaching and supported by a dedicated course co-ordinator based in Mt Gambier.

"Southern Cross University is committed to ensuring that the course is locally relevant and will be inviting the involvement of Green Triangle forestry experts in its delivery," Professor Vanclay said.

Information is available from the website: http://scu.edu.au/environment-science-engineering/