The potential of African Mahagony in NT Australia

In the heart of the Northern Territory, an ambitious project has been quietly growing for the last two decades. The African mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) plantations, meticulously nurtured and tended to, are now on the cusp of a significant milestone.

As these majestic trees reach maturity, the potential of African mahogany to capture the interest of discerning consumers and industries worldwide is immense.

Originally native to the semi-deciduous forests of the northern savannah belt of tropical Africa, from Senegal in the west to Uganda in the east, African mahogany has found a new home in the Northern Territory, where its adaptability and growth potential have been harnessed to create thriving plantations.

This endeavour stands as the largest African mahogany plantation in Australia, a testament to the pioneering spirit of African Mahogany Australia (AMA). They have been at the forefront of testing various silviculture regimes, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in sustainable forestry practices to determine the best ways to manage the species in the unforgiving NT climate. Over the past 15 years, the managers of these estates have diligently overseen the growth of these valuable hardwoods.

Now, with only several years remaining until the estate reaches its maturity, the focus has shifted towards unlocking the full potential of the African mahogany timber.

Exciting developments are underway as the company delves into testing the timber properties for various product options. While much of this testing has been conducted with young trees and juvenile timber, the results are promising.

This crucial phase involves meticulous examination and experimentation to determine the most suitable applications for this prized resource. From cabinetry to fine furniture making, boat-building and musical instruments, the versatility of African mahogany opens up a plethora of possibilities.

One particularly intriguing aspect that has garnered attention is the exquisite colouring of the timber. African mahogany boasts rich, warm hues from pale pink to deep red that add a touch of elegance to any finished product. This natural beauty makes it highly desirable for appearance-grade end products, elevating the aesthetic appeal of furniture, flooring, and decorative items.

The journey of African mahogany in the Northern Territory is a testament to the power of foresight, dedication, and sustainable management practices.

It serves as a reminder of the untapped potential that lies within our natural resources and the opportunities they present for economic growth and environmental stewardship.

As we look ahead to the final maturation of these remarkable plantations, there is a sense of optimism and excitement for what the future holds. With African mahogany poised to make its mark in the timber markets, it holds promise for the economic prospects of the Northern Territory forestry industry.

Summary
Net plantation area:                         ~13,500ha
Net hay production:                         ~2,000ha (10-15,000 tonnes/annum)
Gross Area:                                      ~40,000ha
Location:                                          Douglas Daly and Venn, Katherine region.
Rotation length:                               20-25 years (mahogany)
Products to be grown:                      Premium veneer, flooring and premium furniture timber, 

biofuel, and minor products.
Planned location of processing:        NT and Asia (Vietnam, Indonesia, China)

For further information contact: 
Nunik Alexander, 
+61 402489758
nunik@hotmail.com
nunik@indoinoz.com