The Shire of Manjimup has been involved in discussions with Auswest Timbers WA, in the wake of an announcement that the Auswest facilities in Manjimup and Pemberton will close with a view to expand the Greenbushes sawmill.
On October 3, Auswest Timbers WA state manager Mike Epp release a letter to employees stating that the acquisition and commissioning of the Greenbushes sawmill back in March and the subsequent closure of the Deanmill Sawmill led to the decision being made.
“Regrettably, the existing Manjimup Processing Centre will cease operations in late 2016 and key equipment will be transferred to Greenbushes,” the letter read.
“The Pemberton sawmill will remain operational until the construction and full commissioning of the large log line is completed, at which time the Pemberton Sawmill will also cease operations during the first quarter of 2017.
“The next few weeks will be a period of significant change and challenges, but it remains of utmost importance that we maintain a strong focus with regards safety.”
Manjimup Shire president Wade DeCampo said he has had many discussions with concerned employees and fellow community members since the announcement was made.
"Shire and SWDC representatives have had the opportunity to meet with Auswest to determine the level of assistance that is required for each of the employees affected,” he said.
“Everybody's situation is different, which means that advice and assistance needs to be tailored to the individual and their families.”
Cr DeCampo said the Shire were comfortable with how the closures have been dealt with by Auswest, and that the Shire would remain in close contact with Auswest throughout the process, to ensure that the needs of the employees were being met.
"The long term wellbeing of the employees has remained paramount and we're staying involved to ensure that this continues.
"Traditionally, Local Government Authorities don't get involved in the operations of commercial enterprise or employment, but the Shire of Manjimup is of the belief that if it affects the community, it affects us, and we need to be there to advocate.”
