The University of South Australia Mount Gambier Campus will host its final public lecture for 2021 this Thursday, Trees into Farming Launch, held in conjunction with the Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub (GTFIH).

The GTFIH has undertaken detailed research in recent years, investigating how to optimise the region’s existing fibre use and to explore new market opportunities to contribute to growing timber demands of the nation.

Highly respected Data Analysis Expert Tim Woods and fellow forestry consultant Sylva Systems Managing Director Braden Jenkin are developing solutions to support plantation expansion.

GTFIH Executive General Manager Liz McKinnon said national and global demand for wood products was expected to quadruple by 2050, therefore the GTFIH had committed to optimise use of existing resource and explore opportunities to expand its supporting plantation estate, including building true partnerships with farmers.

Mr Jenkin said the worldwide shortage of structural timber is an issue due to increasing demand of the product to build houses.

“That’s part of the underlying reason why the industry is so keen to get more plantations in the ground,” Mr Jenkin said.

“It’s not going to solve today’s problem, but it will solve future problems.”

Mr Jenkin and Ms McKinnon worked in collaboration on developing the project for 18 months.

“It’s about integrating trees into agricultural systems as part of the agricultural system by understanding how trees can be a solution to farmers’ issues,” Mr Jenkin said.

“Issues could include sustainability and shade and shelter for livestock.”

Mr Jenkin said they will raise awareness and bring people along for the journey, focusing on commercial tree species, the farmer’s personal and farming perspective and working with communities and different groups.

The aim is to explore and understand how to incorporate and address specific needs into the outcomes and create tree growing arrangements with farmers.

UniSA Mount Gambier Regional Manager Ian McKay said the lecture will be relevant to all community members interested in learning more about current challenges and future solutions in one of the most important industries in the region.

Pre-event drinks will begin at 5.30pm and the session will commence at 6pm, followed by tea, coffee and a light supper.

Registrations are essential and can be made via Eventbrite or email mountgambier.enquiries@unisa.edu.au.

The event will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.