The call is out for the annual funding appeal that underpins the educational study grants from the Joseph William Gottstein Trust Fund. For almost 50 years companies and individuals have generously supported the Trust’s activities. Source: Timberbiz
“Regular donations of a modest amount enable the Trust Fund to be maintained,” chair of the group of seven trustees who presently oversee the Trust Fund John Simon said.
“This means that grant awards can keep being made to bright, up and coming individuals involved at any point along the timber growing and manufacturing supply chain, including in research.
“Our regular opportunities to speak face to face with donors at industry gatherings are non-existent this year due to COVID and so I am writing to our previous donors seeking their ongoing support; as well as to potential new donors asking that they consider supporting our work,” he said.
The donations are very important to keep up the strong investment in Gottstein fellowships, scholarships and industry skill awards made available every year.
“Regrettably the three individuals awarded 2020 fellowships are cooling their heels until international travel can safely resume and their study tours can go ahead,” Mr Simon said.
Patron donation renewals received to date are from Hyne Timber, Sustainable Timber Tasmania and the Australian Forest Products Association.
“We thank them and all who have confirmed their ongoing support. We look forward to others following on,” Mr Simon said.
Patron donors of $2000 and sponsor donors of $1000 are entitled to significant discounts for Australian based personnel to attend the annual Gottstein week-long courses, which alternate each year between Understanding Forest Science and Understanding Wood Science. A supporter donor category at $500 is well suited to smaller firms and individuals.
The 2020 appeal letters from Mr Simon are being sent to industry participants for their consideration during November.
Beginning in 1971, the Trust was formed to honour the esteemed CSIRO forest scientist Bill Gottstein upon his accidental death. Although his tremendous contribution to the industry was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on in a substantial way. Each year the Trust awards grants to people seeking to extend their own knowledge in ways that can advance the industry.
For further information https://gottsteintrust.org/sponsors/ or email the Gottstein Team via [email protected]
