WAFCN update for FIFWA Newsletter

Simcoa Tour

WAFCN undertook a site tour of Simcoa (Silicon Metal Company of Australia) Operations Pty Ltd in early September. The tour was attended by shire representatives from Harvey, Dardanup, Bunbury, Boyup Brook, Manjimup, Donnybrook-Balingup and Dr Steve Thomas MLC.

Simcoa is an Australian-based company committed to producing the world's highest quality silicon. Simcoa operates the only fully integrated silicon metal production plant in the world.

The industrial site consists of a sawmill, two charcoal retorts, three submerged arc electric furnaces, as well as a filter house (for cleaning the furnace off gases) and product packaging and despatch facilities. We were lucky enough to view the working furnace.

This modern plant uses the highest quality raw materials - low ash charcoal, coal and a high purity quartzite. With highly skilled operators and technical expertise, this results in a product which is unique in terms of its consistency and quality.

Blackwood Valley Softwood Tour

WAFCN, together with the Forest Products Commission undertook an informational field trip in the Blackwood Valley region to learn about WA’s softwood industry.

We heard about the key aspects of softwood production, including establishment, silvicultural management, harvest, markets and resulting products. We viewed plantations at different phases of growth, active thinning and biofuel chipping operations and the silvicultural practices used to optimise production of this high demand natural resource.
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It was great opportunity to speak with experienced FPC foresters including Paul Newman (Production), Greg Hodgson (Manager Fire Protection), and Troy Sawyer (Production Manager) and ask questions that relate to your community.
The field trip had shire and community representatives from Harvey, Donnybrook, Dardanup. 

Regional Shows

WAFCN, together with FIFWA attended the Albany Show. We were located in a marquee opposite the log chopping arena which was a great attraction.  In the marquee we were joined by Forest Products Commission, PF Olsen and Mount Romance.

​WAFCN also attended the Dardanup Bull and Barrel Festival, the Brunswick Show and the Manjimup Cherry Harmony Fetival, along with other industry organisations and companies. Such events are great chances to support local communities through sponsorship and engage with interested members of the public. Next time you’re at a local show, be sure to pop by!