Works have commenced on a new post peeling mill to increase capacity at Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant, following Federal Government funding of $550,000.
A new steam cylinder has arrived onsite but is still be to be commissioned.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the business was undergoing a $1.25 million expansion that would create 20 construction jobs and four ongoing positions.
“This expansion has the potential to double current production at Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant,” Mr Chester said.
“It is a family-owned business, which has already increased production five-fold in the past five years and still there are market gaps.
“This new post peeling facility will help Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant reinforce its place as one of the main suppliers of treated pine products in Gippsland.”
The business is owned and operated by Luke Olarenshaw, in partnership with his parents John and Judy.
“This expansion, and particularly the upgraded mill, will allow us to supply new markets from outside of Gippsland and continue to grow the business moving forward,” Mr Olarenshaw said.
“It will also improve efficiency and reliability so we can maintain and increase the volumes being supplied to our customer base in Gippsland.”
The new post peeling facility is expected to be operational by June next year.
