Premier opens the expanded operations of Busselton's Jensen Jarrah

19/11/99

Premier Richard Court has officially opened the expanded operations of Busselton outdoor furniture manufacturer Jensen Jarrah, describing the company as an excellent example of the work being done in Western Australia to add value and promote the efficient use of the State's timber resource.
Mr Court said that at a time when many Western Australians were supporting the increased conservation and better use of Western Australia's forests, it was important that the efforts of companies such as Jensen Jarrah were encouraged and acknowledged.
"Not only does Jensen Jarrah use timber that was previously discarded, but it has become a world leader in the manufacture and design of hardwood outdoor timber furniture," the Premier said.
The company exports more than half of its product to markets in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Europe.
"WA's outdoor furniture industry is one of the great success stories of our State's economy," Mr Court said.
"The industry has grown at an annual rate of 18 per cent over the last five years and the three major WA manufacturers account for 15 per cent of Australia's total outdoor furniture exports.
"They incorporate innovation and excellent design to produce furniture of quality and style - and most importantly they extract maximum use from our highly valued and unique jarrah resource."
Mr Court said the $1.5 million expansion of the Jensen facilities would also enable the company to manufacture lower grade timber into feature flooring that will promote the timber's natural imperfections.
"The work of companies like Jensen Jarrah acknowledges the need for wise use and proper management of our timber resource," he said.
Media contact: Casey Cahill 9222 9475