Australia Awards South and West Asia

A group of Nepali delegates recently visited Adelaide, Australia, for a study tour focused on timber harvesting. The 10 participants represented the government, private sector, civil society and research organisations. The study tour, which ran from 21 to 24 October 2024, showcased Australia’s expertise in timber-based enterprises and technologies. It was supported by Australia Awards as an Australian Professional Opportunity.

The delegates represented several organisations, including the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Federation of Community Forestry Users Nepal, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Federation of Forest Based Industry and Trade Nepal, Enhancing Livelihoods from Improved Forest Management in Nepal, and ForestAction Nepal. Through the program activities, the visiting Nepalis gained insights into the operation and regulation of timber businesses and into timber processing technologies in Australia.

Nepali delegates meeting with members from South Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PRISA).
Delegate Badri Raj Dhungana (Joint Secretary & Chief, Planning Division, Ministry of Forests and Environment) (sixth from left, back row) presented Nepal’s forestry sector to members of PRISA.

The Australian Government first began supporting Nepali forestry in 1966, and launched the Nepal–Australia Forestry Project in 1976. It has been described as Australia’s longest-running aid investment. In addition, Australian forestry experts and researchers from various universities are providing expertise and training to forest practitioners in Nepal. This study tour further complements Australia’s support for Nepal in the field of forestry, creating a knowledge-sharing experience that strengthens the Australia–Nepal forestry partnership.

The study tour was a focused learning opportunity for the delegates via activities such as visiting the Forest Stewardship Council’s office, meeting with officials from South Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regions (where they learnt about the department’s role in South Australia’s commercial timber industry), and visiting ForestrySA’s Kuitpo Forest (including TreeClimb, an aerial adventure course with interactive education elements). They learnt about ForestrySA’s history and its role in managing forest fire and risks across the Adelaide forestry reserves. Delegates also gained valuable insights by visiting forest industry sites in Mount Gambier (including Gildera Nursery, Fennell Forestry, Bio Gro, OneFortyOne’s Jubilee Sawmill and Umpherston Sinkhole). The activity concluded with a meeting at the University of South Australia’s Mount Gambier campus.

Nepali delegates learn from the Fennell Forestry team about their work onsite in Mount Gambier.

The delegates shared their experiences of the study tour through a collective report, which says, “The tour provided valuable insights and achievements regarding sustainable forestry practices, timber and industry innovation and policies. One of the major achievements of the program was gaining a thorough understanding of evidence-based forest management in Australia.” The report expands on the “clear distinction” between national forests and harvested forests in Australia: national forests are conserved and protected, while harvested forests are used for constructing house frames, infrastructure (bridges and buildings), fencing, furniture, bioenergy (such as wood for heating and power) and fibre for paper-making, with harvesting taking place every year. “Such distinction showcases a system and balance where natural resources are sustainably managed to meet both the conservation and economic needs of the people,” the report says, noting that this approach could offer guidance for Nepal in developing policies that allow sustainable use of forests for production, while safeguarding Nepal’s biodiversity through separate forests for conservation.

The delegates also mentioned Australia’s “commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in every detail”. As examples, the report notes the provision of recreational activities in forest areas for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and educational messages at tree climbing stops. “These initiatives convey an important message about the value of integrating and supporting the diverse needs of individuals,” the report says.

The Gildera Nursery team in Mount Gambier briefing Nepali delegates on the nursery’s technical irrigation system.

The group emphasised that this professional development opportunity was a comprehensive learning experience, enhancing participants’ understanding of sustainable forest industry practices that could inform Nepal’s forestry development strategies. Based on what they learnt from the study tour, the participating officials have planned several initiatives to advance Nepal’s timber situation. These initiatives will focus on promoting sustainable, production-based forest management; clarifying the roles of the government, private sector and local communities; and implementing institutional reforms for a more effective approach, among other actions. Through such efforts, the delegates aim to make significant progress in the development of Nepal’s forestry sector.

Australian Professional Opportunities are professional development and capacity building opportunities funded by the Australian Government and offered by Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia.