Media Statement
2 February 2020
South West Fibre completely rejects claims of harming koalas
South West Fibre (SWF) is aware of disturbing allegations distributed on social media regarding the death of koalas on a property near Portland, Victoria.
In October 2019, SWF was engaged by the landowner of the property to remove a number of trees in a legitimate harvesting operation approved by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and consistent with the SWF Koala Management Plan. Following the work the site was handed back to the landowner in November 2019. SWF left an appropriate number of ‘habitat trees’ for the existing koala population and provided details of such in a letter to the landowner noting that the koalas were uninjured and in good health.
It is understood that subsequent to SWF completing its work, the remaining trees have since been cleared. This is particularly concerning to the foresters and staff who worked assiduously to protect the koalas during the harvesting operation.
SWF always employs proven practices with respect to protecting wildlife in forests and this commitment is recognised in various certifications held by the company.
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Media contact:
Rob Hadler
T: 0437 745 462
E: robert.hadler@yahoo.com.au
About SWF
South West Fibre Pty Ltd (SWF) is a plantation hardwood processing and marketing operation in the Green Triangle in south western Victoria and is a joint venture between Midway Limited and Mitsui.
