Tiber industry is about more than just trees

AN important step in the South Australian Government’s plan to grow South Australia’s forestry workforce has been reached with the appointment of the Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub’s (GTFIH) dedicated workforce development manager.

Lara Kroeger has been appointed as the new workforce development manager, a key position to deliver the next phase of the region’s Forestry Workforce Development Strategy.

This appointment is made possible through a $300,000 State Government grant over two years to support the GTFIH Workforce Development Program.

The program, made possible through the continued support of the State Government, builds on the State’s Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Master Plan and reflects the government’s broader commitment to growing and sustaining a skilled, future-focused forestry workforce.

South Australian Minister for Forest Industries Clare Scriven said the workforce development manager will play a vital role in boosting recruitment into South Australia’s forest industry through strengthening relationships with schools and education providers to engage the future workforce.

“I congratulate Lara on her appointment and look forward to following her progress,” Minister Scriven said. “The State Government is committed to ensuring that our forestry industry is ready for the future.

“We continue to work closely with our partners to implement the Master Plan to ensure all South Australians continue to benefit from the sustainable growth and future success of our forest industries.”

The Forestry Workforce Development Strategy focuses on strengthening career pathways, building skills capability, and promoting forestry as a modern, innovative, and safe industry of choice.

Its implementation includes partnerships with schools, vocational training providers, and the Forestry Centre of Excellence in Mount Gambier, connecting education and training with real industry opportunities.

GTFIH executive general manager Tony Wright said the Green Triangle was one of Australia’s most significant forestry regions, and the continuation of this strategy demonstrates the State Government’s confidence in the industry’s future.

“Forestry is not just about trees. It’s about people, skills, and communities. This partnership ensures we continue to connect industry, education, and government to build a resilient and skilled regional workforce for the future,” Mr Wright said.

“Lara brings energy, professionalism, and a global perspective that will strengthen our engagement across the education and training system. Her appointment will help ensure the Green Triangle continues to lead Australia in forestry innovation, skills, and sustainability.”

Ms Kroeger brings valuable international and regional experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication, together with direct experience in timber and fibre processing through her previous role with Polytec (Borg), a leader in timber manufacturing and wood-processing innovation.

She holds a Bachelor of International Business and is completing a Master of Management, with studies focused on project and change management, strategic human-resource development, and leadership – qualifications that will strengthen the Hub’s ability to connect workforce strategy with education and industry delivery.

“I’m thrilled to join the Hub at such an important time,” Ms Kroeger said. “My focus will be to build strong connections with industry, schools, and training organisations to develop clear and rewarding pathways into forestry.

“The Green Triangle is full of opportunity, and I’m excited to help showcase the diversity and long-term career prospects this industry offers, both by supporting and developing experienced professionals and by attracting future talent to the region.”

For further information on the GTFIH Workforce Development Program visit www.gtfih.com.au

The South Australian Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Master Plan is available at www.pir.sa.gov.au/forestry