Understanding Waiqele Sawmill PTE Limited

Established in 1979, Waiqele Sawmill PTE Limited has grown to become a leader in timber harvesting and processing on the Northern Island of Fiji, specifically in Vanua Levu. With a commitment to sustainability and community, our operations focus on native timber and pine sourced from local plantations, ensuring both quality and ecological responsibility.

The Workforce: A Community-Centric Approach

Employing around 200 dedicated individuals from the nearby community, Waiqele Sawmill values local talent and expertise. This stable workforce not only contributes to our operational efficiency but also strengthens our ties with the community, fostering a culture of collaboration and support.

Timber Production: Quality and Sustainability

Native Timber Harvesting

• High-grade timber for export.
• Natural drying methods to maintain quality.
• Periodic audits by the Ministry of Forestry to ensure compliance with regulations.

Pine Timber for Local Construction

• Harvesting from private pine plantations.
• Production of rough sawn timber and chemically treated pine post and poles.
• Options for various diameters and lengths based on customer needs.

Innovative Processing Facilities

Waiqele Sawmill boasts a 10-hectare site dedicated to:

• Log yard operations.
• Sawmilling capabilities with a capacity of 30,000 m³ per annum.
• Onsite timber drying facilities employing natural drying and conventional kiln methods.
• Timber treatment operations adhering to Hazard 3 chemical treatment standards.

Our timber treatment ensures durability and longevity for construction applications, participating actively in enhancing the local building industry.

Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

We administer our forest management and harvesting operations with a strong focus on:

• Best management practices.
• Close cooperation with the Ministry of Forestry for ecological and environmental enhancement.

This dedication has earned Waiqele Sawmill accolades like “Forester of the Year” in 2010 and “Native Forest Harvester of the Year” in 2012, awarded by the Prime Minister of Fiji. These awards underline our commitment to sustainable timber practices and the local ecosystem.

Future Prospects: Value-Added Services

Looking ahead, Waiqele Sawmill is exploring further value-adding opportunities, including:

• Finger jointing and edge lamination.
• Door manufacturing to expand our product line.

By diversifying into these areas, we aim to enhance our market offerings while sustaining our core commitments.

Conclusion

Waiqele Sawmill PTE Limited represents a model of sustainable timber management, blending community engagement with innovative processing practices. As we continue to advance our operations, our commitment to quality, sustainability, and community remains at the forefront of everything we do.