Advanced manufacturing leader and timber supplier Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH) has received $1.2 million in funding through the Victorian Forestry Plan innovation program.
The latest funding will enable the company to expand its plantation timber manufacturing operation and help in the construction of a new $2.4 million specialised MASSLAM manufacturing facility.
The expansion is expected to help ASH’s Heyfield mill transition to alternative fibre resources, create 12 new full-time jobs and help retain the mill’s existing 172 roles.
As Australia’s only large-scale manufacturer of glue laminated timber, also known as MASSLAM, the latest grant will help ASH introduce new products to the market, such as mass flooring systems, engineered floorboards, kitchen benchtops, and components for staircases, windows, doors, and furniture.
“Plantation shining gum is a key pillar in the future of MASSLAM production. This investment will mean that ASH can continue to produce Australian-made large-scale section columns and beams,” said Vince Hurley, managing director for Australian Sustainable Hardwoods.
Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney visited the mill Wednesday to announce the latest funding and inspect a new retail outlet established with government grants.
Heyfield mill previously secured a $1.6 million funding through the Victorian Timber Innovation Fund to install a new manufacturing line to produce engineered flooring made from plantation shining gum and Australian-made pine plywood.
The new floorboard line is slated for rollout by the end of the year, making ASH the only company in Australia that manufactures this kind of high-value plantation product, according to a press release issued by the Victorian government.
“We are proud to support ASH to continue to support local jobs and manufacture world renowned timber products into the future,”’ said Tierney.
