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Six nominees for this year’s New Zealand Tree of the Year competition have been revealed, with organisers saying the story behind the trees is often as important as the vegetation itself. Source: RNZ The competition, now in its third year, is not about celebrating a species, just “one very special tree”. This year’s list includes the Walking Tree on the West Coast and Moko in Otari Wilton’s Bush, Wellington, with “Freddie’s Pōhutukawa” in Gisborne, which took the title last year – again on the list. New Zealand Arboricultural Association president Richie Hill told RNZ Nights the competition celebrates the trees that play an important part in our lives, our history and our future. “It’s about connecting people with trees. “Trees are great bridge builders, we don’t talk about them enough, and we’re getting less of them, not more, especially in places that matter. “If we don’t appreciate them and acknowledge them, then we’re not going to recognise their significance.” He said the competition was about the stories around the trees and their connection to a place, and these were living remnants of that. “There are six amazing stories here.” The competition was inspired by the ‘European tree of the year’ which has been running since 2011. Voting closes at midnight on 31 May, with winners announced on 5 June (Arbor Day). Vote in the 2024 Tree of the Year competition at https://www.treeoftheyear.co.nz/

In the heart of the community of Rosewood lies Rosewood State School, a place that has not only nurtured young minds but has also fostered a deep connection within the forest industry. Source: Tumbarumba Times Over the years, Rosewood School has been a proud producer of individuals who have contributed significantly to the forest and forest products industry, with over 80 alumni finding their calling in this field. Recently, the school recognised an issue that was affecting the safety and well-being of its students. Next to the school grounds stood a plantation that, while once a source of pride, had become a cause for concern. The area had become unsafe for the children to play in, posing both physical risks and the threat of a potential fire hazard. In a remarkable display of community spirit and collaboration, several key stakeholders came together to address this issue. Hyne, Bergins, Visy, and Southern Cross Forests, leading companies in the forest and forest products industry, combined their efforts to remove the timber from the plantation. Additionally, a local contractor, Lehmans, volunteered their services to clean up the site, ensuring that it would be safe and accessible for the children of Rosewood School. But the story doesn’t end there. In a delightful turn of events, plans are underway to transform the cleared area into a space where the children can not only play safely but also learn and connect with nature. The school intends to introduce school animals to the site, creating an immersive and educational experience for the students. Furthermore, the community’s generosity knows no bounds, with funds being raised to support Rosewood School in this endeavour. Every individual and organisation involved has played their part, demonstrating a collective commitment to the well-being and enrichment of our community’s youngest members. This story encapsulates the essence of community spirit, collaboration, and the unwavering dedication to the betterment of our society. It is a narrative that deserves to be shared and celebrated, inspiring others to come together and make a positive difference in their own communities.

The Australia and New Zealand cross laminated timber (CLT) market size reached US$105.7 million in 2023. Looking forward, the market is projected to reach US$526.9 million by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate of 19.54% during 2023-2032. Sources: Timberbiz, Research & Markets Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is a prefabricated and solid engineered wood panel comprising several layers of kiln-dried lumber boards, which are stacked in alternating directions, pressed to form solid, straight, rectangular panels, and bonded with structural adhesives. It is lightweight and strong with superior acoustic, fire, seismic, and thermal performance. Apart from this, it offers several advantages, such as aesthetic appeal, easy installation, and low greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, CLT is replacing traditional construction materials, such as steel, concrete, and cement. At present, there is a rise in the demand for CLT in both the residential and commercial sectors across Australia and New Zealand as it provides dry and fast onsite construction and the potential for airtightness with robust wall and floor structures. The growing environmental concerns among the masses about rising greenhouse gas emissions represent one of the key factors driving the market in Australia and New Zealand. Moreover, there is an increase in the number of green building projects to enhance the efficiency of buildings while reducing their impact on the health of individuals and the environment through better design, construction, operation, and maintenance. This, along with the increasing initiatives by the central and state governments of Australia and New Zealand to promote the utilization of wood-based construction materials, is propelling the growth of the market. In addition, builders in the region are focusing on improving construction practices by relying on innovative construction materials and techniques, which is positively influencing the market. Besides this, the escalating demand for CLT in enhancing indoor environment quality and keeping the surroundings clean by generating zero waste during production is offering lucrative growth opportunities to industry investors. Apart from this, CLT is affordable and requires considerably less time in the construction of different structures compared with conventional construction materials. These product advantages are bolstering the growth of the market in the region. A report by Research & Markets provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the Australia and New Zealand cross laminated timber (CLT) market report, along with forecasts for the period 2024-2032. The report has categorized the market based on application. Breakup by Application: Detached Houses Residential Non-Residential Units Non-residential units dominate the market due to the rising preference for sustainable building materials in the country. New Zealand Cross Laminated Timber Industry Breakup by Application: Residential Commercial Residential units exhibit a clear dominance in the New Zealand market as CLT provides efficient seismic performance in the multi-storey timber buildings. The competitive landscape of the market has been analysed in the report, along with the detailed profiles of the major players operating in the industry. Some of these players are Stora Enso Oyj, KLH Massivholz GmbH, Binderholz GmbH, and XLam Australia Pty Ltd. More information here.  

This year’s Forestry Australia Symposium will be held from Tuesday 29 to Thursday 31 October 2024, in Ballarat, Victoria. The Symposium is known as the premier Australian meeting for forest scientists, foresters and forest growers. Source: Timberbiz The 2024 Symposium theme ‘Healthy and resilient forests for our future,’ will explore the concepts that underpin the science and best practice of sustaining and promoting the stewardship of healthy forests across all land tenures and forest types, including: Evidence-based best practice to support and maintain healthy forests Traditional Owner perspectives on caring for Country Mitigation of threats to forest health and resilience Effective forest recovery and restoration following major disturbances Achieving healthy forests on farms, and Critical linkages between forests and human wellbeing and creativity Regardless of land tenure and ownership, healthy and resilient forests should be the primary objective for all forest and land managers. Through active and adaptive management, healthy forests can deliver a range of environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits – and they are much more likely to withstand future shocks and stresses, such as those generated by bushfires, invasive species and those anticipated with climate change. The 2024 Symposium theme ‘Healthy and resilient forests for our future,’ will explore the concepts that underpin the science and best practice of sustaining and promoting the stewardship of healthy forests across all land tenures and forest types, including: Evidence-based best practice to support and maintain healthy forests Traditional Owner perspectives on caring for Country Mitigation of threats to forest health and resilience Effective forest recovery and restoration following major disturbances Achieving healthy forests on farms, and Critical linkages between forests and human wellbeing and creativity The following speakers will be joining the Symposium in either plenary, concurrent or panel presentations. Dr Patrick Baker, University of Melbourne Prof Sue Baker, University of Tasmania Dr Tim Brodribb, University of Tasmania Yvette Eglington, University of Melbourne Dr Tom Fairman, University of Melbourne Dr Paul Foreman, Blue Devil Consulting Dr Rachelle Meyer, Trees on Farms Project Tim McBride, HVP Krista Patterson-Majoor, Cassinia Environmental Angeline Pool, Wadawurrung Corporation Dr Elizabeth Pryde, Greening Australia Rowan Reid, Bambra Agroforestry Farm Mike Ryan, VicForests Prof Jacki Schirmer, University of Canberra Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Research Network Mick Stephens, Timber Queensland Myall Tarran, SA Department of Primary Industries and Regions Rob Waterworth, Mullion Group Prof Kath Williams, University of Melbourne Fabiano Ximenes, NSW Department of Primary Industries More speakers will be announced, along with a preliminary program. For more information: https://www.forestryconference.com.au

Forest & Wood Products Australia has shared new research introducing biased position testing as a cost-effective and efficient method for the verification of structural softwood timber properties. Source: Timberbiz This innovative approach can unlock significant cost savings and improved efficiency whilst maintaining rigorous verification of structural softwood timber strength and stiffness properties. When it comes to quality control and product performance, random selection is traditionally used for sampling structural timber. However, biased selection can also be used. Random selection is like drawing names from a hat; every item has an equal chance to be tested, giving a statistically clear picture of overall quality. Biased selection, however, is based on picking samples (i.e. with known defects) which give specific insights, but not about the whole group. Biased ratios are essentially formulas that help translate results from that second biased sample into the results expected, as if the whole sample set was randomly tested. So, biased selection testing allows for a reduction in testing costs by utilising a smaller sample size while achieving the same level of confidence in the verification results. This cost-saving measure is particularly advantageous for sawn timber products such as MGP12, MGP10, and F5. This project was led by Professor Jon Shanks, Director of TimberED Services and Associate Professor in Timber Engineering at University of Tasmania and was conducted in collaboration with University of South Australia. “By focusing on the grade-determining features of the timber, biased position testing provides direct feedback on the grading process with fewer boards tested,” Prof Shanks said. To ensure compatibility with existing design values and standards, this project developed a process to establish appropriate Biased Ratios for quality control testing. “This research demonstrates what can be achieved by collaboration between industry stakeholders, in this case showing that biased position testing does work and can ensure continued product compliance,” Gavin Matthew, CEO at Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia, said. “By embracing this new sampling method, the timber industry can maintain high levels of quality control, whilst reducing costs and improving overall productivity.” Chris Lafferty, RD&E Manager at FWPA said this innovative approach offered cost savings, improved efficiency, and accurate estimation of properties. “It is a significant step towards enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the industry,” he said.

At the heart of Australia’s largest construction and design show, the SydneyBuild Expo 2024, Responsible Wood stood as a beacon for sustainable forestry and ethical supply chains. Source: Timberbiz With more than 25,000 registered visitors, including contractors, architects, and construction professionals, the event provided a platform for industry leaders to showcase innovations and discuss pressing issues facing the sector. Responsible Wood’s presence was marked by the active involvement of Sustainability Manager Matt de Jongh, hosting a networking hub session and delivering a compelling presentation on certified sustainable forestry and responsible supply chains. Reflecting on the significance of the expo, Mr de Jongh said that SydneyBuild offered a unique opportunity to engage with stakeholders across the construction industry and drive conversations around sustainability. “It’s crucial for us to highlight the importance of sourcing wood from responsibly managed forests to ensure the long-term health of our ecosystems,” he said. Throughout the expo, attendees were treated to displays from leading companies in sustainable construction, including XLam and NextGen TimberLink. XLam and NextGen TimberLink, all frontrunners in timber solutions. They showcased their engineered timber products tailored for efficient prefabricated construction, also emphasising the importance of Australian-made engineered wood products and their role in promoting carbon capture and storage. The synergy between exhibitors and attendees fostered an environment ripe for collaboration and knowledge exchange. Responsible Wood’s networking hub session provided a forum for stakeholders to connect, share ideas, and explore opportunities for advancing sustainable practices in the industry. “Events like SydneyBuild facilitate meaningful dialogue and collaboration among industry professionals,” Mr de Jongh said. “By working together, we can drive positive change and build a more sustainable future.” The expo also featured a diverse range of conference stages, workshops, and entertainment, further enriching the experience for participants. With topics spanning from digital construction to diversity and inclusion, SydneyBuild offered a comprehensive platform for learning and engagement. SydneyBuild Expo 2024 served as a catalyst for promoting sustainability and innovation within the construction industry. Through Responsible Wood’s active participation and thought leadership, Mr de Jongh reaffirmed the crucial role of certified sustainable forestry in shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious built environment.

Protesters have escalated their attacks on Victoria’s forestry industry as they move to target both private native forestry and plantations, according to Forest and Wood Communities Australia. Source: Timberbiz FWCA executive officer Michael Harrington said protestors, emboldened by the end of public native forestry and their misguided ideology, have escalated their attacks on Victoria’s forestry industry. “Their irrational crusade extends beyond shows no sign of stopping as they move to target both private native forestry and plantations, disregarding the fact that these operations are conducted sustainably, in accordance with strict regulations,” Mr Harrington said. He said contractors legally engaged to do storm clean-up and reduce fire fuel loads in the Daylesford area have had machinery worth up to a million dollars smashed, spikes driven into timber and threatening messages painted on their machinery including “Whether it be Vicforest or FMM – if you destroy our forests – you kill our koalas and you become a target”. “This behaviour is unfortunately quietly supported by many within the state Labor government as they refuse to publicly denounce this illegal, threatening and dangerous behaviour,” Mr Harrington said. “Meanwhile, the Victorian State Labor government’s abandonment of forestry contractors is a farcical disgrace. “Instead of standing up for hardworking families, they cower before the Greens and LEAN (Labor Environment Action Network), leaving businesses uncompensated and vulnerable to weaponised and baseless investigations if they dare speak to media about their experiences.” Mr Harrington said that contractors and their families had spoken on condition of anonymity to FWCA. There were multiple experiences where contractors were informed by government and transition/compensation authorities they were eligible for compensation and receiving confirmation via test bank transfer payments of $0.02 deposited into their accounts, and then informed a short time later they would not be receiving any compensation. “It’s a cruel joke at the expense of hardworking Australians who have dedicated their lives to sustaining Victoria’s forestry sector,” Mr Harrington said. “The consequences of these reprehensible actions are far-reaching and dire. “Entire communities, built on the backbone of the forestry industry, face the spectre of unemployment and economic ruin. The social fabric of these regions is torn asunder, as families are left to fend for themselves in the wake of government betrayal and environmental extremism.” Mr Harrington said that amidst this turmoil, the need for a staunch defence of Victoria’s forestry heritage has never been more urgent. “It’s time to reject the radical agenda of environmental extremists and hold the government accountable for its complete disdain for working families. Forestry is not only an economic necessity but also a proud renewable tradition that must be upheld for the prosperity of future generations,” he said. “The assault on Victoria’s sustainable native timber sector by government bureaucrats angling for their next promotion and radical environmentalists set on destroying any industry that offends them – must be met with unwavering resistance. “It’s time for the state Labor government to stand up for Victoria’s remaining forestry sector, for the hardworking men and women who depend on it, and ensure those that are being made redundant or are leaving the industry to pursue other opportunities are looked after and compensated in a just and supportive way. “Unfortunately, the absence of extensive further compensation and community recovery commitments in this current state budget are just another betrayal of working-class families and an affront to the prosperity of our state and nation.”