Oakdale Industries has formed a new Tasmanian business partnership to bring environmentally friendly specialist timber products to homes across the country.
Oakdale Industries has despatched its first shipment of Hydrowood flooring to be sold nationally by Whelan the Warehouse, a Melbourne-based retailer that specialises in recycled and salvaged timber.
Hydrowood is specialist Tasmanian timber recovered from the depths of Lake Pieman after being submerged under the lake’s waters for more than 25 years.
Oakdale Industries, a social enterprise operated by OAK Possability, has processed the first of many shipments of Western Beech (myrtle) Hydrowood timber destined for upmarket houses and commercial premises throughout the country.
OAK Possability CEO, Drew Beswick, says the Hydrowood partnership provides a positive business growth opportunity.
“This is a unique and attractive product for discerning people who want beautiful timber flooring that is ethically sourced and manufactured.
“Not only is it using timber that was previously lying dormant in a Hydro dam, it is supporting the development of skills and economic independence of Tasmanians with disability.”
Hydrowood has already attracted significant national attention, last year featuring on the renovation reality program The Block.
“There is a growing market in Tasmania and interstate for this high-end, niche product,” Mr Beswick said.
“Hydrowood is an important part of our growth plans for Oakdale Industries.”
Hydrowood will be featured at Oakdale’s stall at the HIA Homefest on the weekend of 13/14 May at Princes Wharf 1, Hobart.
