Hyne Timber’s thoughts remain with our Tumbarumba NSW team members, their families, Fire Fighters, volunteers, emergency services and the broader community as the bushfire State of Emergency continues.
The Tumbarumba Mill employs approximately 200 team members who are currently managing their personal response to the emergency as a priority. The Mill has been shut since New Year’s Eve.
Hyne Timber CEO, Jon Kleinschmidt said conditions are making it challenging to communicate with Tumbarumba team members and the community more broadly.
“We are aware some team members have lost their homes. We are available to assist if Hyne can help. With the State of Emergency in place, it may take some time to understand the extent of impact on our people and the community.
“With limited power and mobile reception, the township became isolated but I understand from our local Site Manager, Marcus Fenske, that emergency services and the Snowy Valleys Council have done an exceptional job of bringing the community together through community meetings to communicate official advice.” Mr Kleinschmidt said.
As a major employer and essential component of an extensive supply chain, Hyne Timber’s Tumbarumba Mill is recognised as critical infrastructure for the Tumbarumba region and overall Hyne business. Teams are working to protect the Mill with further containment measures while it is safe to do so.
At this time, there is an extended delayed restart of the Mill until Monday 13th January given the declaration of a State Emergency with ongoing evacuation, fire threat, limited power, limited road access and log supply all impacted. The Hyne Critical Response Team continue to assess the situation.
Mr Kleinschmidt said supporting the Tumbarumba team members and the broader community will involve all Hyne team members banding together.
“It is not uncommon for team members to work together throughout sites and provide support or relief as required. Tumbarumba is in all our thoughts and I hope everyone stays safe over the weekend.
“A special mention to the many fire fighters, emergency service personnel and volunteers, many of whom are our own team members also. Thank you for your continued efforts. Please stay safe.” Mr Kleinschmidt said.
ENDS
Media enquiries: Katie Fowden, 0455087118 / communications@hyne.com.au