Forest Machine Operator Training – the future. Identifying opportunities to enhance the training and improvement of computer optimising cut to length harvesting and forwarder operators, aiming to achieve Standards and Qualifications outlined in the ‘Safe and Skilled’ charter.

Damien Petfield - 2026

The project entailed a study tour to Sweden and Finland after conducting a survey in the Australian industry.

The safe and efficient mechanical tree harvesting (whilst maximising value recovery) of 30+ year old trees at clearfell depends on the ability of operators to do a lot of things well. The report recommends a change of approach from the status quo, being to adopt a coordinated, industry-wide commitment to lift the capability, consistency, and recognised training of the harvesting workforce. This will secure the maximum value of the raw resource (the tree when being converted into a log) at the crucial point of harvest. This is a key factor that will underpin the industry value into the future.

 

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