Forestry industry quizzed about new uni course
Forestry industry representatives have been consulted in south-east South Australia about a new national education program.
The University of the Sunshine Coast, with the Cooperative Research Centre for Forestry, is looking to develop a university course in forestry operations management.
Professor Loren Kellogg from Oregon State University, in the US, has just started a tour of the nation to find out what training is needed and to consider the diverse needs.
He says it is hoped workers in the south-east will also benefit from the course.
"Some of the courses could be taught there but we also expect that the subjects will be taught in different locations around the country and also the distance education is another opportunity," he said.
"So what we're looking at is the interest in the University of the Sunshine Coast taking a leadership role in developing this program."
He says there is a lot of potential for training and tremendous opportunity for improvements to current systems.
"Worker safety as an example, getting the maximum value out of the timber that is harvested, utilising new systems and equipment that are currently being used by being able to have the skills to document how operations are progressing," he said.
If the proposal goes ahead, subjects are likely to be taught around the nation, including the south-east.