Local mayor honoured at State awards

THE Green Triangle plantation sector has celebrated its progress and commitment to gender equality at the annual Women in Wood Fibre event, marking International Women’s Day with a powerful message of empowerment and unity.

Hosted by Australian Bluegum Plantations (ABP), more than 100 industry members joined by political and agricultural leaders enjoyed a High Tea celebration at the Dunkeld Community Centre, recognising the achievements, resilience and contributions of women across the plantation sector and local community.

ABP general manager human resources Sheri Tarr said the sector was working hard to promote inclusive practices and policies, creating pathways to support female leadership and career progression.

“Creating gender equality starts by achieving a positive workplace culture, where everyone feels valued and respected,” Ms Tarr said. “This is a primary objective for ABP and our broader industry which today has 30 per cent of its executive roles filled by women, matched by an ongoing increase in female employees, with a growth rate of 10 per cent per year since 2021,

“It’s important we celebrate this progress whilst recognising there is still more that can be achieved – we must collectively lead and champion this change. Creating opportunities for women is not just about fairness, we must liberate the talent within our workforce, challenge the bias and barriers that holds us back, to create a more progressive and productive community where women can live, work and prosper without limits.”

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said the forestry industry was an important part of Victoria’s economy.

“Plantation timber plays a vital role in supplying critical building materials for the housing and construction sector in Victoria, and delivers a world class supply of wood chips for the pulp and paper industry,” Minister Spence said. “It’s encouraging to see more women taking up roles in this essential industry, especially in leadership roles.”

ABC journalist and regional podcaster Kirsten Diprose hosted the festivities which were headlined by Commonwealth Game and Paralympic table tennis medallist Melissa Tapper who shared the story behind her meteoric rise from able-bodied to para-table tennis champion.

Long standing timber ambassador Karen Stephens was recognised at the event for her inspirational work as a regional advocate, volunteer and mentor.