Newly appointed TFFPN Board of Directors

Posted 11 December 2024

Private Forests Tasmania's Operations Manager, Jarrod Burn is your newly appointed TFFPN Director alongside Andrew Wye. Hear what they have to say...

In October the Tasmanian Forests & Forest Products Network welcomed two new directors to the TFFPN Board. Jarrod Burn and Andrew Wye individually bring expertise and a new dimension to the organisation, with each boasting a long, history with forestry.

The pair spoke with us about the opportunities they see for young people in the Tasmanian forest industry, why they think more businesses should consider partnering with the TFFPN, and their favourite local escapes.

If you weren’t working in the forest industry, what would you be doing?

JB: Good question… forestry is all I’ve ever known after I started following dad around harvesting operations at the age of nine. However, I was interested in the legal area and policing during high school, so maybe something along those lines.

AW: A lawyer or a haiku poet.

Bountiful beauty
Standing upright or chopped down
More precious than gold

Andrew Wye (left) and Jarrod Burn at the PFT native forest thinning field day in Levendale this month.

How do you think the forest industry in Tasmania is currently perceived?

JB: I believe the value and benefits of the forest industry are well understood and, despite some negative spin in the media, the Tasmanian people have spoken at the last few elections and the industry is continually improving in communicating their positive messages. This increase in positive perception has been aided by greater understanding of the non-forest values (carbon and natural capital) that are only enhanced by the forest industry and recognised globally.

AW: I think it’s perceived as important but annoying. It’s a continuing contest of science vs ideology vs politics. I think internally another revolution is coming, and we are still deciding what to do.

How would you describe the opportunities that exist for those young people who might have little understanding of forestry?

JB: The exponential rise of technological capabilities over the last decade or so has seen forestry widely diversify beyond traditional roles. Opportunities withing remote sensing, AI, processing engineering, efficiency research, carbon farming and so on were never as broad as they are now. This increase in diversity of roles has also had a huge impact on increasing the diversity of people within the industry, so I would say the opportunities for young people are endless and exciting.

AW: Forestry is one of those jobs where there are a wide range of options both outside and inside – all with cutting edge technologies like drones. And it always involves people.

Why did you nominate for the TFFPN Board?

JB: I felt the timing was right in terms of my skills, experience, and stage of life. I considered nominating a few years ago but didn’t have the confidence that I would be of value. But a gentle nudge this time around helped, and I was very humbled that the members feel that I should be representing them.

AW: To contribute and be part of the continuing development of the Network. Connecting people is an important opportunity.

The TFFPN is industry funded and exists for the people working in and around it. What would you say to businesses considering partnering with the Network?

JB: Do it! The TFFPN is the only body that represents and supports ALL of industry across the entire supply chain. The Network presents a unique opportunity to unify and advocate through collaboration and strength in numbers.

AW: It makes sense. The Network provides support and advocacy for the people in your business.

On the weekend we would likely find you…

JB: Running around after my three young children, or out fishing.

AW: Housework, testing new Roundup blends, and enjoying a nice Tasmanian whisky.

My favourite place in Tasmania is…

JB: The lakes country and the bush. Theres something about fishing for trout in one of our many highland lakes and being out in nature. My favourites (at the moment) would be Lake Leake and Woods Lake.’

AW: Tough question … I always love being in the Huon, but any forest or beach really (and we have plenty!)