Hydrowood appoints new Chair and Director to lead next phase of growth
Two influential voices in governance and climate finance join the board of Tasmania’s most innovative timber business.
As demand for sustainable design materials accelerates, Tasmanian timber innovator Hydrowood has bolstered its leadership with the appointment of two high-calibre independent directors: Dr Allison Anderson as Chair, and Radha Kuppalli as an independent Director.
Both bring nationally and globally recognised expertise in regional development, sustainable forestry and nature-based investment—skills that will be critical as Hydrowood looks to grow its business and scale its impact in providing premium sustainable native timber products to a variety of commercial and bespoke architectural customers.
The appointments follow the conclusion of Paul Viney’s tenure as Chair, during which Hydrowood completed a successful crowd-sourced funding (CSF) raise, welcomed two cornerstone investors contributing $5 million in new capital, and embedded public-market-style governance.
“Paul played a key role in strengthening Hydrowood’s governance through a period of rapid growth. We’re grateful for his commitment and steady leadership,” said David Wise, Hydrowood co-founder and Director.
incoming Hydrowood chair Dr Allison Anderson.
Incoming Chair, Dr Allison Anderson is a seasoned director, strategy advisor, and sustainability advocate with deep experience across government, community and business. A PhD holder and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), she also serves as Chair of the Northern Tasmania Development Corporation and is a member of the Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council.
“Allison’s strategic mindset, knowledge of regional development, and passion for environmental stewardship make her an exceptional Chair for our business,” said Wise. “She understands the value of place, story and purpose—everything Hydrowood stands for.”
Joining the Board alongside Anderson is Radha Kuppalli, a global leader in sustainable investment and natural capital finance. With 25 years of experience—including 17 years at New Forests, one of the world’s largest sustainable forestry and natural capital investment managers—Radha brings a rare blend of commercial, environmental and global policy expertise.
New Hydrowood boardmember Radha Kuppalli.
Radha holds Masters degrees from the Yale School of Management and the Yale School of the Environment and has helped shape carbon markets, ESG frameworks and forestry governance internationally.
“Radha brings deep experience in connecting capital with sustainability—her leadership in forestry, carbon, and ESG investment will be a major asset as we grow our influence in design and construction markets,” said Andrew Morgan, co-founder and Director. “We’re thrilled to have her at the table.”
A Board built for impact
Hydrowood’s Board now comprises two independent directors and two executive founders, providing a balance of strategic oversight and deep operational experience in the timber sector.
With a growing portfolio of architect-specified projects, a strengthened capital base, and rising demand for recovered materials, Hydrowood is poised to lead a new era in sustainable design - backed by a Board with the vision and expertise to match.
About hydrowood
Hydrowood is a Tasmanian-based company pioneering the sustainable recovery of Australian native timber submerged in hydroelectric dams. Through its development and commercial deployment of advanced underwater logging technology, Hydrowood retrieves long-lost, premium-quality timber and transforms it into high-grade materials for the architecture and furniture sectors.
The company’s innovative approach delivers exceptional products and supports responsible resource use and environmental stewardship.
For more information, please contact:
Neale Tomlin
Hydrowood CEO
ntomlin@hydrowood.com.au