If ever you have wanted to know something about growing trees, then a series of Master Tree Grower South East Queensland programs is the obvious choice.
Two programs will cater for people to the South and North of Brisbane. If you wish to be a part of this highly successful program or require further information contact Sam Ellis, AgForest Coordinator at [email protected] (mobile) 0427 694 771 or Paul Daly South East Queensland Catchments Forestry Consultant on 0429 003 566 or [email protected]
The Australian Master Tree Growers program is a participatory tree growing program that allows participants to directly learn from each other, plus a range of guest speakers in a hands-on environment.
The eight-day national program that has been running since 1996 provides participants a great opportunity to discuss, explore and learn all aspects of farm forestry including tree growing, timber marketing, environmental and production benefits, new and emerging issues such as carbon credits as well as integrating timber and farm production design.
Master Tree Grower program dates:
South of Brisbane North of Brisbane
Day 1 – Friday 6th Feb Day 1 – Saturday 7th Feb
Day 2 – Saturday 14th Feb Day 2 – Friday 13th Feb
Day 3 – Friday 20th Feb Day 3 – Saturday 21st Feb
Day 4 – Saturday 28th Feb Day 4 – Friday 27th Feb
Day 5 – Friday 6th of March Day 5 – Saturday 7th March
Day 6 – Saturday 14th March Day 6 – Friday 13th March
Day 7 – Friday 20th March Day 7 – Saturday 21st March
Day 8 – Saturday 28th March Day 8 – Friday 27th March
Program agenda
Day 1
Rowan Reid, researcher from the University of Melbourne will introduce the concept of farm forestry as farmers growing trees to meet their own needs (e.g., shelter stock and crops, control land degradation, provide wildlife habitat and generate income, etc.) – design and management of multi-purpose forests on farm.
Day 2
Visits to saw mill and retail timber outlets (joinery, furniture producer etc.) – Review the prospects for timber (e.g., saw logs, poles, furniture, etc.). Discuss non-wood product opportunities such as oils, bush food and tree seed.
Day 3
Learn how to measure and monitor forest growth and value. Introduction to producing timber targeted at current and future markets – silviculture.
Day 4
Further explore a range of silvicultural management techniques. Discuss and explore the ways in which these methods can be adapted to suit your individual property.
Day 5-7
Participant property visits exploring the various management techniques adopted as well as future ambitions and opportunities. Other guest speakers will discuss topics such as:
• Emerging markets for carbon, biodiversity and other environmental services.
• Soil health and relevance to tree growing.
• GPS and computer mapping.
• Plantation trials and current research.
• Taxation and legal.
• Experienced tree growers.
Day 8
Final property visits. Conclude with the presentations of Master Tree Grower gate signs and certificates to completing participants.
The Master Tree Growers program is suited for a group of up to 20 producers and involves visiting as many participants properties as possible over the eight days. The program allows people growing trees to share information and develop networks for ongoing assistance and interest beyond the completion of the Master Tree Grower program.
