This edition reflects on a strong year for the Murray Region Forestry Hub, highlighting leadership changes, major project outcomes and future priorities.
A new Chair, Dean Anderson, has been appointed, bringing experience in forestry, fire management and governance. Federal funding has been extended to mid-2027, supporting continued research, policy advice and industry development.
A key focus is the completed Blackberry Impacts project, which confirms significant economic and operational challenges. Annual management costs are estimated at $5.16 million, with total impacts including lost production reaching around $42 million per year and broader regional effects of $306 million. A regional forum brought stakeholders together to develop a coordinated long-term response.
The Hub has also commenced a community sentiment project to improve stakeholder engagement and inform government advice. A new joint project with the Central West Forestry Hub will assess environmental plantings versus production plantations under carbon schemes.
Additional updates include expanded grant opportunities, regional surveys and increased firefighting capacity across NSW forests.
Overall, the newsletter highlights a shift towards stronger collaboration, improved data-driven policy advice and long-term planning to support sustainable forestry growth.