A Bathurst log export deal worth more than $70 million to the local economy has been named a finalist in the 2014 NSW Export Awards.
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The deal – instigated by forestry company PF Olsen Australia, with services provided by C3 and Pacific National – took more than two years to initiate and has created more than 30 jobs in the Bathurst and Oberon districts.
The joint venture between PF Olsen Australia and Asciano sent its first load of logs overseas at the beginning of August.
The venture has since shipped 14,000 cubic metres of timber to China.
It is anticipated that at least 175,000 tonnes of timber will be exported to China each year for the next three years.
Being named a finalist in the awards is recognition of the importance of the deal, which has secured the future of many local forest growers, according to PF Olsen Australia managing director Pat Groenhout.
“It’s been a very long process to get to the point of seeing logs transported from the Kelso site and to be nominated as a finalist is wonderful recognition by the NSW Government,” he said.
“We have had tremendous support from the Bathurst and Oberon mayors, the local media and the general and business communities.
“We have created jobs, which are vital for any region, and just as important we have given many local forest growers new opportunities to market their logs.
“Being named finalist for such a prestigious award is a proud feeling for everyone involved in the newly established export deal.”
Export Council of Australia chief operating officer Lisa McAuley congratulated PF Olsen on making finalist status in the NSW Export Awards.