NSW Forestry Corporation and Allied Natural Wood Exports (ANWE) are in negotiations for a proposed saw mill that has the future of 70 year old timber company Blue Ridge Hardwoods in doubt. 

 NSW Forestry Corporation spokesperson Daniel Tuan said the regrowth forests that will be harvested after this year will require a new or reconfigured timber mill. 

“The current mill at Blue Ridge Hardwoods is not suitable to process the new resource. The new regrowth log is different to  the larger logs that Blue Ridge process,” Mr Tuan said.

Blue Ridge Hardwoods managing director Allan Richards said Forest Corporation “rushed” their decision and failed to have conversations with his company during the application process. 

“We’ve got all of the infrastructure needed, we’d done the research and anticipated to supply the technology for the new resource,” Mr Richards said.

“Forest Corporation could have found that out, there was an opportunity to talk with applicants and they chose not to.”

NSW Forestry Corporation were unable to comment on the merit of the proposals. 

Mr Richards said the decision to go ahead with the proposed hub could likely bring about the closure of Blue Ridge Hardwoods sawmill. 

On the contrary ANWE general manager Kel Henry said there should be ‘absolutely’ no need for Blue Ridge Hardwoods to close.

“Obviously we need to speak with Blue Ridge Hardwoods and that is what we plan to do,” Mr Henry said.

“If ANWE want to talk then we welcome that, but all we can do is read what is being promoted, and that is a $20 million sawmill.” Mr Richards responded. 

NSW Forestry Corp and ANWE are still in negotiations.