Tributes are flowing for Smithton personality and Britton Timbers managing director Glenn Britton, who died last Thursday night at the Royal Hobart Hospital after a stroke.
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The Smithton-based family business, run by Mr Britton and brothers Ross, Donald and Michael and latterly, nephew Shaun, employs more than one hundred families in the area.
Through his 55 years in the business, Mr Britton diversified the company, turning it into one of Australia's largest importers and distributors of overseas decorative hardwoods, and setting up branches in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
Resources Minister Guy Barnett paid tribute to Mr Britton's advocacy for the state forest industry.
"Glenn came from a long line of sawmillers in North-West Tasmania and was recognised all his life across the state and the country as a passionate timber worker and avid supporter of the forestry sector.
"I had the privilege of working with Glenn over several decades including the past six years in his role as the Chair of the Forest Industries Association of Tasmania."
Mr Barnett said Mr Britton had been a strong supporter of a sustainable timber industry, resource security and jobs in regional Tasmania, for which he fought "tooth and nail".
Acting CEO of the Forest Industry Association of Tasmania and long-term friend Terry Edwards said he was in shock and devastated at the news of Mr Britton's passing.
"He set a fabulous foundation for the family company to continue to move forward.
"He was a true statesman. A gentleman. A business leader. A mentor to many."
