Truckloads of export round logs have started to roll into the Pentarch Logistic log yard in Eden in a symbolic return to business for the fire-affected operation.
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The logs have made their way to the export terminal giving local contractors and wharf workers a much-needed boost to morale after fire damaged some key infrastructure on January 5.
Pentarch Forestry chairman Malcolm McComb said opening the log yard was the first step to show that the business was determined to restore full operations and continue to be one of the region's largest employers.
"Uncertainty has been one of our biggest challenges, but we are showing that we are determined to return to business as usual as soon as possible," Mr McComb said.
"In our neighbouring chip mill business, staff are currently assisting with the clean-up operation, which not only provides our people with much-needed work and confidence but restoring the mill operations will provide hope to the hundreds more whose livelihoods are directly linked to the mill.
"We are pleased that the federal and state governments recognise the huge value the mill has to the Eden community and to the region's economy and we appreciate their continued support."
"The state government has also committed to assist with the removal of damaged infrastructure to allow rebuilding to commence.
"It is not the first time the wood chip mill has faced adversity and each time we have rebuilt to show the people of Eden that we are here to stay," Mr McComb said.