The Timber, Furnishings and Textiles Union (TFTU) has slammed the Bob Brown Foundation for its “grubby workplace invasions” and unfair targeting of members in Tasmania.
“The targeting of workers this week across multiple forestry and timber worksites is unacceptable,” according to a statement obtained by Wood Central this afternoon. “Our members have the right to go about their work safely and without harassment. Interfering with active worksites puts workers at serious risk.”
“Everyone has the right to protest and to make their case, no matter how misinformed it may be. But targeting workers is never acceptable.”
“Our union has a proud history of speaking truth to power — including through protest and civil disobedience where necessary — but decisions about land use, forestry policy and resource allocation are not made by mill workers, harvesting crews or truck drivers. Targeting workers is cowardly and wrong.”
Bob Brown Foundation is a “reactionary fringe group”
“The anti-worker tactics of the Bob Brown Foundation cement its reputation as a reactionary fringe group and confirm that it is more interested in self-promotion than sustainability.”
“Dressing up seedy attacks on workers and their communities as a so-called ‘Forest Resistance Tour’, and self‑appointing as ‘Forest Defenders’, fools no one.”
“Their arrogance and ignorance would be laughable if the consequences for workers and regional communities were not so serious. Workers deserve better.”
“Our members work hard to support their families and communities and, like every other worker, deserve respect and safety at work. The union is examining every option available to ensure there is no repeat of the disgraceful events of this week.”
All week, Wood Central has reported on the week‑long “Forest Resistance Tour,” which has seen 100 “forest defenders” target multiple sites across the state (and around the country), including storming Ta Ann’s Smithton mill over several days.
- To learn more about the Timber, Furnishings and Textiles Union (TFTU), Australia’s only union dedicated to timber workers, click here.
