Legendary Limestone Coast farmer George the Farmer has traded his tractor for a harvester in an effort to teach Australia’s next generation about the importance of the region’s plantation forestry. The highly acclaimed children’s character joined key industry leaders in the Green Triangle to film a new six-minute video illustrating everything from tree planting and harvesting to the milling process, showcasing the wealth of products created by local fibre.

The forestry video, which will air on the ABC, has been produced as part of the federally-funded $5m ‘Educating Kids About Agriculture’ project in collaboration with Primary Producers SA and Australian Forest Products Association. Released this week, the video is also supported by a Virtual Reality (VR) experience where children are able to get up close and personal with giant forestry equipment used during harvest.

George the Farmer co-founder Simone Kain said a complimentary curriculum-aligned educators guide for Foundation to Year 4 students would be released in early August. “We are proud to be showcasing South Australian produce and growers to a national audience,” Ms Kain said. “Education has always been at the core of what we do and we know the kids of Australia are going to love learning about sustainable forestry.”

Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub chair Ian McDonnell praised the new promotion, noting its catchy musical performances left a lasting impression. “Like never before, this promotion is helping children understand that everyday products such as toilet paper, house frames and furniture, are produced because of plantation forestry,” he said.

“The catchy song sings the important message that ‘Wood is Good for the World’ and I trust it will inspire and connect a new generation to the endless everyday resources our tree plantations create. “The industry is extremely grateful to George the Farmer creators Simone Kain and Ben Hood for sharing our important story with their loyal global following.”