Australian timber industry news

Australia’s professional association for forest scientists, managers and growers is using Sunday’s International Day for Women and Girls in Science on Sunday as a call for the next generation to join forestry science. “Forestry across Australia has so many tremendous women who are at the forefront of the science that underpins the skilful management of our forests and broader environment,” Forestry Australia President Dr Michelle Freeman said. “On February 11 we celebrate all of these women, and we want to encourage the next generation of women and girls to follow in their footsteps too. “If you ask someone to imagine a typical person who works in forest and fire management, they tend to picture a very narrow stereotype, but the reality is very different. We have incredible scientists across our country doing the most innovative and creative work for the betterment of our environment, community and economy – and that’s the definition of career goals. “There’s so many opportunities for the next generation of women and girls to lead the science in our sector, promoting evidence-based decision making from carbon capture, forest fire management, conservation and renewables and to them I say: do it, you’ll love it.” Some of the women from across Forestry Australia have shared their thoughts and experiences on this International Day for Women and Girls in Science: Dr Tegan Brown, Victoria “Vegetation is the fuel that burns in grassland and forest fires. In my current role as a Research Scientist for CFA, I use climate models and landscape data to predict future vegetation and fuel types. We will then use these data to predict future fire activity, and model the number and type of fire management resources that Victorian fire agencies will require. Data isn’t neutral, and is interpreted by scientists through a lens built from context and lived experiences. Having more diverse people contributing to and making decisions in land, forest, and fire management will enhance our organisations and our contribution to communities.” Molly Marshall, Tasmania “I believe that now is the perfect opportunity for women to work within the forest, fire and land management sector. Every one of us has and will continue to have an integral role to play in the combat against climate change and our sector provides no better platform to be at the forefront of mitigation, adaptation and resilience.” Emily Post, New South Wales “Forestry science is a unique blend of natural, physical, and social sciences; it is a privilege to work in a science that can contribute so much to the wellbeing of people and the planet. Forests and their benefits are so diverse in nature, and I want to encourage the continued diversification of the community of stewards who are working to nurture our vital forest ecosystems.” Dr Danielle Wiseman, WA “Working in forestry science is great as I get to collaborate with scientists across Australia and sometimes the world.  An example of this is a recent success story for scientists and blue gum plantation growers.  Some time in the 1990s its thought that a damaging snout weevil (Gonipterus spp.) was introduced to Western Australia from eastern Australia.  By the early 2000s plantation growers were starting to notice damage and branch death in the growing tips of trees in blue gum plantations.  This damage made trees unprofitable.  Initially, damage from the snout weevil was controlled using insecticides.  However using insecticides kills all insects, including beneficial insects.  Another approach was developed where insecticide was applied to the roots where its absorbed by the trees.  This method meant only insects feeding on the trees were affected by the insecticide.  This worked well, but plantation growers would prefer not to use insecticides at all.   A research collaboration was established between scientists from around Australia to find a solution.  Simon Lawson and Helen Nahrung (USC) and Treena Burgess (Murdoch Univ.) decided to look for a natural enemy of the Snout weevil.  The prime candidate was Anaphes nitens a type of fairy fly.  The fairy fly lays its eggs in the eggs of the snout weevil.  This is actually pretty gross as the Snout weevil lays its eggs in a blob of its own poo.  The fairy flies larvae feed on the Snout weevils larvae so they don’t grow into adults.  After many years of work by forest health scientists, last year we released a matched fairy fly into a plantation south of Rocky Gully to target the Snout weevils.   We hope that it doesn’t find laying its eggs in Snout weevil poo as gross as we do and is able to stop the snout weevil from damaging the blue gum plantations.”

A study published in the Journal of Field Robotics has assessed the world’s first unmanned machine designed for autonomous forestry operations. Source: Timberbiz Investigators demonstrated that using computer vision, autonomous navigation, and manipulator control algorithms, their newly developed machine can safely, accurately, and efficiently pick up logs from the ground and manoeuvre through various forest terrains without the need for human intervention. The autonomous terrain vehicle was designed and built at Luleå University of Technology in Sweden. It is the first time in world history that forwarding is done completely without human intervention. The researchers behind the successful trial see it as an important step towards more sustainable forestry. “This will redraw the map for the industry and how other players in the area view operations such as these. We have worked extremely intensively with this test, and it feels very nice that it actually works,” Magnus Karlberg, professor at Luleå University of Technology said. The research represents a significant milestone in the field of autonomous outdoor robotics, which could reduce the need for human labour, thereby increasing productivity and reducing labour costs, while also minimizing the environmental impact of timber harvesting. The autonomous shovelling took place in Hörnefors in Västerbotten, in collaboration with the Forestry Technology Cluster and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. By being programmed to perform the work on its own, the forestry machine was able to pick up and transport logs to the intended collection point. A job usually performed by forwarder drivers in machines built for the purpose, but this time the people could stand by and watch. The 10-ton machine, which is now also used in the Arctic Off-Road Robotics Laboratory, can be controlled with a remote control but is also programmed to perform work entirely on its own, as in the test with autonomous forwarding. The machine is currently powered by biodiesel and is built without a cab, but with a hydrostatic driveline, forest crane, pendulum arms and sensors. As early as 2014, researchers began sketching the machine, or off-road vehicle platform, which is a more correct name. Since then, the research team has worked to make the self-propelled vehicle as smart and robust as possible. A work that is now beginning to bear fruit. “That a self-driving forest machine can handle such an advanced task is world-unique and opens up for major changes in the forest industry,” Prof Karlberg said. “Even though it is still many years away, and will take place gradually, we are convinced that the technical development with smart autonomous forest machines is the future of forestry. We have shown that the technology exists, but there is of course a difference for us who look at this from a research perspective and commercial activities. We researchers can step into the future in a completely different way.” The development of self-propelled forest machines is also an important step for more sustainable forestry thanks to the possibility of smaller and more energy-efficient machines that can also work much more gently in forest and land. “Besides its short-term effect on forestry, the technological advancements that come with autonomous forestry machines have the potential to address current environmental issues. As demonstrated in this study, by embracing cutting-edge technologies like autonomous navigation and manipulation algorithms, the unmanned machine provides not only timber harvesting with greater efficiency but also promotes sustainable forestry,” said corresponding author Pedro La Hera, PhD, of the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. “Automated operations can be highly accurate and effective in terms of collateral damage to adjacent ecosystems, which helps us to be more ecologically friendly than we currently are.”

PONSSE Manager 2.0 is a next-generation digital service platform and forest machine management system that provides customers valuable data of machines’ location, productivity figures and fuel consumption, among others. The PONSSE Manager monitors the progress of stands, plans, and manages machine transportation, keep track of machine outputs according to assortment and print out measuring certificates. Source: Timberbiz “We want to support our customers, so that they can run their business successfully,” said Miika Soininen, Chief Digital Officer of Ponsse “This has been the guiding principle, how we have designed new Ponsse Manager. All the development has been based on customer feedback and customer needs from all over the world”. In Ponsse Manager 2.0, the user can create a personalized home page focusing on the most important data. Every important information is visible immediately, variations can be discovered quickly, and corrective action can be taken directly. With the single sign-on, all digital solutions required to improve operational efficiency and productivity are at the user’s disposal in one web address. PONSSE Manager keeps customers up to date on data that affects their machines’ profitability and helps improve operations’ efficiency. One of the new key features is the possibility to download all reports and combine them in a spreadsheet with other data to create new valuable views of operations. Mobile applications will also be available to download for free from the app store. “The mobile app is easy to use on site, with all required functionalities available for professionals working in different roles” said Jenni Pulkkinen, Product Owner Digital Solutions. Ponsse is developing its digital solutions together with its customers. The digital innovations address the right issues and provide relevant support for both professionals working on-site and those responsible for smooth and efficient fleet management.

One of the world’s largest home improvement retailers, The Home Depot has released its 2023 Sustainable Forestry Report stating that it works to promote sustainability by enhancing its operations and by purchasing from responsible suppliers across a global supply chain. Source: Timberbiz The company says it understands the critical role that global forests play in the sustainability of the planet’s biodiversity and the potential impact of deforestation on climate change. The Home Depot first issued its Wood Purchasing Policy in 1999 and the most recent is its Sustainable Forestry Report published January 2024. The vast majority of wood sourced by The Home Depot comes from regions with sustainable forests. Nonetheless, the company says it is committed to continuing to manage and mitigate, across its diverse and growing product assortment, the risk that products it sells or suppliers it selects may contribute to deforestation. The Home Depot has supported third-party certification of wood and wood products. Certified wood and wood products come from forests that are actively managed under strict guidelines developed by third parties that monitor compliance to ensure sustainable forest practices are followed. For this reason, the company strives to select suppliers that have obtained one or more recognized certifications, including certifications from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), and others. The Home Depot has stocked and sold FSC-certified wood since 1994 and began giving preferential treatment to FSC-certified products in 1999. It says it has worked closely with domestic and international suppliers to help develop a supply chain that enables consumers to purchase FSC-certified wood products. The company currently offers FSC-certified products in numerous categories, including board lumber, plywood, doors, moulding, and patio furniture. The Home Depot continues to seek out opportunities to expand the availability of FSC-certified wood products as well as wood products bearing other recognized certifications. Moreover, The Home Depot has since 2018, required FSC certification for wood sourced from regions most at risk for deforestation: specifically, the Amazon basin, the Congo basin, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. Taking a regional, risk-based approach to sustainable forestry allows The Home Depot to closely monitor wood sourced from regions of the world where the risk of deforestation is greatest. Looking ahead, the company says it is focused on ways to expand its regional, risk-based approach to deepen its understanding of risks beyond the four regions have previously identified as highest risk. Home Depot will continue to require FSC certification from the Amazon basin, the Congo basin, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, while increasing due diligence and other mitigation measures to protect forests in regions that also are at risk of deforestation. Accordingly, in addition to requiring that all wood from the Amazon basin, the Congo basin, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands be FSC-certified, The Home Depot will require that, by the end of fiscal year 2026, all wood sourced from the Atlantic Forest, Cerrado, Choco Darien, Ecuador, Gran Chaco, East African and Miombo, Greater Mekong, Sumatra and Borneo, Eastern Australia, and Russian Far East Forest regions by its US and Canadian Lumber, Building Materials, and Millwork departments must either bear third-party certification as sustainably grown or be verified as plantation- grown. In addition, Home Depot expects all of its wood suppliers to maintain a wood sourcing policy that supports sustainable forestry management and transparency. Home Depot also encourages its suppliers to enhance biodiversity considerations and support efforts to promote ecological balance. Further, The Home Depot encourages its suppliers to find alternatives to high-risk wood species and support the development and use of wood alternative products. To better understand and monitor risks connected to the global supply chain for wood products, The Home Depot is committed to an ongoing risk-based assessment that ensures it maintains appropriate diligence requirements regarding the wood products sourced. As has been the case since the initial publication of its Wood Purchasing Policy in 1999, Home Depot expects to draw on the expertise of and partner with not only suppliers, but also the government agencies, intergovernmental organizations, and nongovernmental organizations that are committed to the continual development of best practices in sustainable forestry. Home Depot will continue to encourage meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities by relevant government authorities and forestry companies to advance sustainable forestry practices. Home Depot’s policy is outlined below. The Home Depot and all of its suppliers offering wood and wood products for resale shall adhere to the following principles: The Home Depot will give preference to the purchase of wood and wood products originating from third-party certified, well-managed forests. The Home Depot will not purchase wood and wood products from regions around the world at greatest risk of deforestation unless responsible sourcing conditions are met. Specifically: The Home Depot will not offer products for sale that contain wood from the Amazon basin, the Congo basin, Papua New Guinea, or the Solomon Islands unless it is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. By the end of fiscal year 2026, The Home Depot will not offer for sale any wood for its US and Canadian Lumber, Building Materials, or Millwork departments from the following regions unless that wood is either third-party certified as sustainable or plantation-grown: Atlantic Forest East African and Miombo Cerrado Greater Mekong Choco Darien Sumatra and Borneo Ecuador Eastern Australia Gran Chaco Russian Far East Forest The Home Depot requires that its suppliers of wood and wood products maintain detailed information regarding their wood sourcing and that they participate as requested in The Home Depot’s wood sourcing surveys and any inquiries by the company. The Home Depot requires that its suppliers of wood and wood products maintain compliance with this policy as well as the laws and regulations pertaining to their operations and the products they manufacture.

Private Forests Tasmania is leading a $450,000 co-investment grant program to support farmers to plant and grow commercial trees on their private properties in Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz The Stems for CO2 2024 Grant Program is supported by the State Government’s Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania. It will support successful applicants with upfront establishment costs to enable them to integrate trees into their agricultural enterprise. The program supports the implementation of commercial tree plantings in the agricultural landscape for modelling carbon abatement levels, improved farm productivity, water quality, biodiversity, reducing soil erosion, creating a future wood resource, and communicating and educating the Tasmanian community on the benefit of trees on farms. PFT Chief Executive Officer Dr Elizabeth Pietrzykowski encourages landowners not to miss out on this opportunity to be supported in joining or a advancing their farm forestry opportunities. “The program has been developed to assist farmers with up front establishment costs to successfully integrate trees into their agricultural enterprise,” she said. “Key objectives are to establish commercial tree plantings into the agricultural landscape and to conduct carbon modelling on the successful grant recipient planting. “The modelling will identify the expected carbon abatement of the plantings and their planned length of rotation. “We will also communicate the carbon benefits of commercial trees to farmers, producers and landowners.” “PFT has a $450,000 funding pool to allocate with the maximum amount a grant recipient can receive is $2,500 per hectare.” An assessment panel comprising of representatives with forestry and agricultural expertise will competitively assess each application against the program objectives and assessment criteria. Expressions of interest are now open and close at 5pm on 1 March 2024. Interested landowners can call Private Forests Tasmania’s Helpline on 1300 661 009 or email admin@pft.tas.gov.au

New Zealand’s Forest Industry Contractors Association has announced the appointment of Rowan Struthers as its new CEO. Source: Timberbiz An experienced professional who has worked across the forestry sector in various roles including senior leadership and forest management, Mr Struthers will take over the job from departing CEO Prue Younger who finishes up in March. Having graduated from Canterbury University Forestry School, Mr Struthers has more than 30 years of experience working in forestry. He has worked in most facets of the industry including silviculture, woodflow/supply chain management, harvesting, log trading, human resource management, sales and marketing of processed products, building supplies management, forest procurement and general management. Mr Struthers has held senior leadership roles in a diverse number of companies that include Fletcher Challenge Forests, Umbraco (a privately owned building suppliers company managing multiple sites), Hancock/Manulife and most recently Chief Operations Officer at China Forestry Group. He has also been a member of the NZFOA executive. FICA Chair Nick Tombleson says the FICA Board is delighted to have Mr Struthers on board, who will take the organisation forward into its next stage. “Rowan has a huge amount of knowledge across so many parts of our industry. That will be of huge benefit to our forestry contractor members and we’re looking forward to drawing on his experience as we take FICA into the next period,” Mr Tombleson said. Mr Struthers says that he is ready to take on the new challenge and will be focused on building a professional, efficient and sustainable contractor workforce. “Over the 30 years I have spent in the industry, a key part of my success has been the collaborative relationships I have been able to develop with Contractors,” he said. “A professional, efficient, and sustainable contractor workforce is key to ensuring the long-term future of the NZ Forest Industry. This role is a great opportunity to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders to further the good work that has already been done by many. I look forward to the challenge.”

The Australian Forest Products Association will talk up the need for timber to be at the centre of policy development solutions for Australia’s housing crisis at today’s National Regional Housing Summit 2024. Source: Timberbiz Hosted by the Regional Australia Institute, Real Estate Institute of Australia and Masters Builders Australia, the National Regional Housing Summit 2024 will draw policy experts and political decision makers to Old Parliament House in Canberra for high level discussions around increasing the availability and affordability of housing in regional Australia. “You cannot build the carbon friendly housing Australia needs for the future without timber, which is why AFPA is sponsoring and actively participating in tomorrow’s summit to promote the important role of both construction and furnishing timber in new and existing housing,” , acting AFPA Chief Executive Officer Richard Hyett said. “Right now, our sector has Aussie grown timber on the shelf ready to go and build the homes of tomorrow, along with the hopes and dreams of many Australians who want a home to live in that meets their needs, whether they have a growing family or downsizing. “Furthermore, as the Commonwealth and State governments look to identify how they reduce emissions and meet ambitious climate targets, they need to more closely consider the role of embodied carbon in timber products as a major solution,” he said. “(The) summit will be yet another opportunity for AFPA to remind Ministers, MPs and Senators, senior public sector administrators and other senior decision makers across the housing construction supply chain, how important the increased take up of timber will be to solve Australia’s housing crisis and help Australia fight climate change,” Mr Hyett said.  

Alpine Truss, one of Wangaratta’s three largest employers, has sold to national Independent Hardware Group (IHG), with the business changing hands on 1 March. George Prothero, who will remain in his role as managing director, sold the business to the IHG, which has supported local communities and family-owned businesses for more than 60 years. Source: Wangaratta Chronicle IHG is one of Australia’s leading wholesalers and Alpine Truss will be its first truss company based in Victoria. It supports the largest independent network of hardware operators with more than 600 branded stores and a further 950 Independent family businesses, located in metro and regional areas across Australia. Mr Prothero, who built the Alpine Truss business from the ground up 22 years ago, started with three staff including himself, today there are 110 employees. He assured the community that even though the business will change hands, there will be no change to how Alpine Truss operates today. “Our priority is to continue to service your needs to the highest of standards and with the same familiar faces and relationships you know today,” he said. “In fact, it is absolutely business as usual where I will continue in my role.” Over the last two decades, Alpine Truss has invested in the latest computerised sawing and pressing equipment to deliver to its customers tailored requirements. “We’ve also seen significant growth having added additional yard space, a mechanics shed, and frame shed,” Mr Prothero said. “Today, Alpine Truss employs 110 staff and operates 12 trucks, helping to build in excess of 3000 homes each year. “Looking into the future, this is an exciting opportunity that opens doors for us within IHG’s expanding Frame & Truss manufacturing business, to grow Alpine Truss across multiple locations in Victoria and Southern NSW sites. “We will be able to expand our capability and see more value-added offers that can only benefit our customers over time.” IHG said its network supports the growth of Independents within the hardware sector through IHG’s purpose ‘building successful independents’. “The culture of IHG is built on being a low cost and transparent business partner with an unwavering commitment to protect and grow a sustainable independent hardware sector for the long term,” Mr Prothero said.  

Australian Forest Products Association chairman Joel Fitzgibbon has resigned and been replaced by Pentarch executive director Stephen Dadd. Source: Timberbiz Mr Fitzgibbon informed the board of his intention on Sunday, and on Monday the board accepted his decision effective immediately. Acting CEO Natasa Sikman has also resigned. Richard Hyett has stepped into the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer. Mr Dadd, who was officially elected on Tuesday, is also Chair of AFPA NSW and a Director of Forest Wood Products Australia. Jean-Yves Nouaze will continue as Deputy Chair. Mr Fitzgibbon has been on the AFPA board since June 2022 and took on the role of Chair in 2023. In that time, he also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer from January to September 2023. Mr Nouaze thanked Mr Fitzgibbon for his service to the forest products sector as well as his long-term support for the industry. “AFPA has been fortunate to have Joel’s support for the sector over many years. As Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Forestry, Joel passionately represented the importance of our industry to Members of Parliament for Australian communities. “It is testament to Joel’s commitment to the industry, that following a distinguished career in Australian politics, he agreed to serve as Director and Chair of AFPA. “Throughout his time as Chair, Joel has guided AFPA and the Board through government relations as well as national and international climate policy decisions and CEO recruitment,” Mr Nouaze said. “We look forward to our ongoing positive relationship with Joel as he pursues a range of other commitments. “We wish Joel well for his future endeavours.” An announcement regarding a new CEO is expected soon. The Softwoods Working Group has extended its heartfelt appreciation to Mr Fitzgibbon for his exceptional leadership as both CEO and Chair of the Australian Forest Products Association. SWG executive officer Carlie Porteous said Mr Fitzgibbon played a pivotal role in steering the organization through a transitional phase, demonstrating unwavering dedication and commitment. She said he had worked tirelessly to elevate the profile of the forest products industry, championing its cause and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. His passion for the sector had left an indelible mark, and the Softwoods Working Group expressed its deepest gratitude for his contribution. Ms Porteous said the new chairman would bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the industry to his new role. “He is highly respected by all in the industry, and we look forward to his contribution and leadership as Chair,” Ms Porteous said. “The Softwoods Working Group looks forward to working closely with Stephen Dadd in his new capacity as Chair of AFPA and is confident that his leadership will further strengthen the industry’s position and foster continued collaboration among industry stakeholders.”

As we commence the year 2024, we are confronted with the demise of our industry in Victoria. This deliberate course of events has sparked intense emotions within our community. Although some may celebrate its exit, many of us appreciate the deep-seated connection and historical significance that the industry retains in Victoria’s high country. We comprehend that the removal of professional timber workers will not only create financial difficulties, but it will also deprive the community of their invaluable expertise in managing the constant threat of devastating bushfires. Since 2003, 60% of the old growth forest has been lost to these fires, raising a legitimate concern that a further reduction in timber workers will accelerate the forest’s decline and yet again put our people and homes in danger. Our community has already endured the tragic loss of loved ones in these catastrophic events. It’s puzzling why the government overlooks not only the financial burden for the state and rural communities with the loss of timber workers, but also the impact on the environment. A common view I’ve heard is that we should lock up our forests to keep them safe. This would have been the case with our original old growth forest. This is no longer the case after 200 years of interference. The bushlands of Victoria today are vastly different from those before Europeans arrived. When they settled here, they had to cut wind tunnels into the old growth forests as the terrain and trees were too damp to burn. These wind tunnels were essential when wind conditions were favourable for forest fires. Clearing the land this way was the only option due to the forest’s natural fire-retardant properties. However, as we have learned from recent fires, a young, dense forest can no longer stop the spread of fire. The landscape has changed significantly and no longer holds water as it once did. Without proper rehabilitation, the risk of future bushfires continues to rise. If we fail to protect the remaining old growth forest, it will have long-term effects on the endangered species that inhabit these areas, including us, since most of our water supply originates from these remaining areas. By commencing rehabilitation efforts around the remaining 40% of old growth forest and water catchments, we may be able to protect them from the increasing likelihood of bushfires in the future. The undeniable fact is that the young forest we have now, compared to a complete old growth forest, is overpopulated with trees. These overcrowded trees vie for water and sunlight, making them more prone to burning due to their insufficient internal water storage. This condition causes the environment beneath them to become drier and more susceptible to igniting severe bushfires. If we do not address this issue by removing these surplus trees, we are likely to witness more massive and destructive bushfires, as we did in the past and as predicted with the escalating impact of climate change. In the 2019-20 fires alone, five unrehabilitated national parks in Victoria were entirely burnt, with 60% of the forest exposed to extreme bushfire, permanently changing this environment and releasing 56 million tons of carbon in one devastating event. These occurrences are prime examples of the repercussions when rehabilitation work is neglected to be done before making these areas parks. The suffering and loss of life to our native forests and animals in these areas was horrendous. The way the animals would have suffered is unimaginable. The few survivors are now exposed to feral predators like wild dogs and cats. The feral deer eat most of the forest’s natural regeneration after the fires, removing more of the native wildlife food source. Sadly, moving forward without the timber industry makes it impossible for the government to afford the necessary funding for our forestry. Our forestry needs to generate income to make it viable to carry out the essential rehabilitation work. The problematic trees need to be selectively removed in a low-impact manner and used for renewable building materials so as not to release more carbon into our atmosphere. If the government had the foresight when they came into power, they could have initiated a transition into a more sustainable and beneficial forestry practice. However, it seems that emotional politics have clouded their judgment, demonising the timber workers and failing to recognize their potential in preserving the forest and helping us combat climate change. Instead, they have deliberately and gradually dismantled the industry and the businesses involved, without properly managing the forest, leading to more environmental damage. The effect of the industry shutdown on hundreds of timber workers has been equally devastating. The knee-jerk closure – instead of the eight years transition the government had us all planning for – has disrupted small businesses across Victoria. The stress and uncertainty faced by the frontline industry workers and their families are overwhelming, leaving them in limbo. With some of them, myself included, not having been paid for months with no sign of compensation as yet. The future looks uncertain, casting a shadow of doubt over the entire community. The timber industry has undeniably left a lasting impact on the area, but its legacy will forever be tarnished by its sudden and unexplained end. The unanswered questions and unheard pleas of those involved leave a bitter taste. Why was the industry closed without proper transparency and communication? Why is there a need to withhold and redact information if the intention is to protect the environment? These circumstances give rise to suspicions of corruption or incompetence, further reinforcing the belief that the industry was set up to fail. It is evident that the promised deadline of 2030 was unattainable from the start because it was a lie. A lie that led us timber workers to invest in our businesses and family homes, believing we had time to repay our debts before the closure occurred. A deceitful trap set by our government leaders, playing politics with the rural community, families, and businesses. As the bittersweet reality sets in […]

The criterion was to design demountable timber housing for 370 refugees using no concrete at all and one which could be erected quickly and taken down within 10 years. Source: Timber Development UK A building that had to be erected quickly and which could also be taken down within ten years: these were the criteria for the Rigot Collective Dwelling Centre, a two-building complex providing housing for 370 refugees in Rigot Park in Geneva, Switzerland. The client was Hospice Général – the main public welfare office of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, who provide assistance to asylum seekers, among their many other functions. The solution, designed by Acau Architects, was two symmetrical five-storey buildings made from 230 prefabricated timber modules. Each module’s structure has a CLT floor with walls and ceilings made of glulam panels. There are two different types of modules, with different functions. One comprises an access balcony and an entrance with a seating area and a free-standing kitchen module inside. The other has a sleeping area and WC. The modules are arranged directly on top of each other, with the walls taking up the vertical loads, while the horizontal loads are channelled into the larch frame. The façades are clad in Swiss oak and the building’s entire design aesthetic seeks to express its wooden structure as honestly as possible. There was an urgent need for the building to be completed quickly. So, the prefabricated nature of the modules played a decisive role. Two different works could be conducted in parallel – the modules and the foundations being built simultaneously – with assembly and finishing following swiftly afterwards. The modules allow the allocation of space to be varied in each apartment from two to eight rooms allowing for a variety of different tenants. Given the temporary nature of the project, this flexibility leaves open the option of later accommodating students, for example, or using the buildings as a hotel. In addition, it is easy to reconfigure the buildings: they can be stacked in different formations to create two taller buildings or several smaller ones. The dwellings are accessed by an external gallery open to a public courtyard, which connects both to the park and to a local public transport stop. The foundations are a network of wooden footings and pilings made from durable larch, and they can be reused at a future new location after the two buildings’ deconstruction at the end of its 10-year tenure. This totally ‘dry’ construction avoiding concrete means no contamination of the surface water network during construction. The land can be fully reinstated once the buildings have been taken down. The use of local wood from Geneva’s forests for the foundations and the building envelope was part of the project’s brief from the very start, inviting tenders from local timber manufacturers. An estimated 3200 m³ of certified “Label Bois Suisse” wood (formerly COBS) was used for the buildings’ 1,848 m2 area, with the exception of the larch window frames on the façade.

In December 2023, more than 70 participants met in Tokyo for a full-day workshop Safer Biomass Handling and Silo Operations: Preventing Fires and Explosions. Participants included operators, engineers and maintenance personnel from electric power stations, trade association representatives, researchers, equipment manufacturers, and wood pellet producers from Japan and around the world. Source: Timberbiz Conducted in English and Japanese, the workshop was hosted by the Wood Pellet Association of Canada (WPAC), FutureMetrics, and media partner Canadian Biomass. The workshop was held in response to customer inquiries requesting best practices to reduce or prevent future incidents and restore trust. Silo fire prevention and suppression requires a unique approach. Risks include combustible dust, structural collapse, and smoulders that can result in fire and explosions. During the morning session, Kayleigh Rayner Brown, MASc, PEng., Director at Obex Risk, discussed biomass handling and storage considerations such as the generation of combustible dust and gas as well as off-gassing and emissions. The group explored self-heating and the factors that can initiate self-heating. The fundamentals of combustible dust and combustible were also described, as well as the conditions that can lead to fires and explosions. The second topic was effective approaches to fire suppression, presented by John Swaan, Operations and Project Development Expert, with FutureMetrics. Mr Swaan shared his experience, as well as other facilities that have successfully implemented nitrogen inerting systems, and the successes of those systems in addressing silo fire hazards. The afternoon session included a hands-on group activity, where participants went through a response plan to a fire situation. Ms Rayner Brown and Mr Swaan highlighted real-life silo fire examples, including responses, action plans, and preventative measures. The factors for reducing fire risk associated with biomass storage and the key actions of a silo fire response plan were also covered. Participants reviewed the key measures they can take in the event of a silo fire at their own operations and shared how they will use the workshop information to ensure safer silos. Safety is everyone’s responsibility and the strength of the industry’s ongoing collaboration to ensure safer biomass storage and workplaces. Due to overwhelming interest in the topic, the workshop will be held again in May. The presentations for the workshop in both English and Japanese can be found at www.pellet.org

One in three ships transporting Swedish goods that transits the Suez Canal carries forest products. Houthi rebel attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea are deterring traffic through the canal, resulting in supply chain uncertainty and increased costs. Source: Timberbiz Sweden is one of the world’s largest producers of pulp, paper and sawn wood products. Around 80% Swedish forest industry products are sold to other countries. This means that the sector provides climate benefits all over the world, but that it is also dependent on resilient logistics. “We calculate that our industry is the single largest transport buyer of container freight from Sweden via the Suez Canal, where costs have now unexpectedly jumped by 100% to 200%, so we view the future with some concern. There is a risk of container shortages, delays and disruption. Going around the Cape of Good Hope instead of via the [Suez] Canal can take up to 30 extra days for a round trip,” said Christian Nielsen, Market Expert Wood Products at Swedish Forest Industries. “The current situation may continue for some time and result in cost increases, but above all increased uncertainty for the industry and for forest industry customers. However, since the autumn, there has been overcapacity of containers and vessels. Until now, shipping rates from Europe to Asia have been unusually low, which reduces near-term risk and helps calm the situation somewhat. “In many cases, suppliers, especially of wood products, have managed to agree to share the increased costs with their customers. But of course they are affected. We’re already facing deteriorating economic conditions with falling prices, while production costs remain generally high. Margins are under more pressure than normal, which can have a severe impact on individual deliveries during this period. But over time, for new contracts, we believe that in many cases these are costs that customers in Asia will have to bear.” There are few alternatives to sawnwood imports from Europe, which appears to affect finished product prices in the region. The outlook is less certain for pulp and paper in terms of the impacts of cost increases and longer delivery times. Competition from other global suppliers is fiercer in these segments. “This doesn’t necessarily mean that Swedish pulp producers will be hit harder than wood product producers. Competition is tougher in pulp and paper markets, but disruption to shipping will also affect imports of paper to Europe from low-cost producers in Asia. This could potentially increase demand in Europe,” Mr Nielsen said. Will this also result in increased costs for wood products, pulp and cardboard on the Swedish market? “No, I don’t think so. It’ll mainly affect our customers in Asia,” Mr Nielsen said. Of Sweden’s total forest industry exports, approximately 10%-15% were previously shipped via the Suez Canal and the Red Sea to customers in the Middle East and Asia. One third of Swedish exports (by volume) shipped via the Suez Canal are forest industry products. This is almost as much as Sweden’s total imports that transit the canal.

A consistent national approach towards infrastructure is needed from the Federal Government if the trucking industry is to move away from fossil fuels, according to PACCAR Australia Product Program Manager Jonathan Crellin. Source: Timberbiz “Diesel is going to be available for the foreseeable future, but there’s a push to get away from fossil fuels,” Mr Crellin said. Mr Crellin said that there is currently a challenge with range and mass when it comes to battery-powered trucking. “They’re probably the two biggest hurdles for them. Batteries are inherently heavy,” he said. “Certainly, the energy density of diesel has a huge advantage because you can put enough diesel in a Kenworth B-double to drive from Melbourne to Brisbane without refuelling, and these are the applications that carry so much of Australia’s road freight. “Log trucks as well. You can fill them with diesel, and they can go a long distance. But range on batteries is limited,” Mr Crellin said. Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia’s state governments have made announcements allowing additional axle mass to enable heavier trucks because of the battery. In Victoria an agreement has been reached with Volvo for some of its electric prime movers to operate on Department of Transport managed roads, but that doesn’t include all of the individual road managers such as local councils which manage their own roads. “With current technology it is fair to say that for long haul applications, BEV trucks may not be the best option for these applications in Australia due to mass and range,” he said. Mr Crellin said PACCAR believed that for long haul applications, hydrogen was probably the better option. “But even then, until there’s adequate refuelling infrastructure it’s a no-go at the moment. “The amount of hydrogen you need to replace all of the existing diesel trucks with hydrogen is massive. “So there’s a long road ahead before there can be a real transition to it.” Mr Crellin said PACCAR was “technology agnostic” on the whole issue. “We’re not picking a winner. That’s why we’re working on a variety of different technologies,” he said. “But I would say certainly in the Australian context that we see for heavy haul, heavy duty, interstate and intrastate applications that hydrogen is probably better.

Every year, thousands of tonnes of CCA-treated timber are sent to secure landfills in New Zealand. There are currently limited disposal options for the timber, which has been treated with a mix of copper, chromium and arsenic. Source: Timberbiz One of the most widely used wood preservatives worldwide, chromated copper arsenate (CCA) enhances the durability of wood, meaning timber products are more resilient to decay and insect attack. It is commonly used in construction, landscape gardening and horticulture with hundreds of CCA-treated posts per hectare in vineyards. But at the end of its life the wood has limited reuse value and, due to environmental challenges with the treatment components like arsenic, limited disposal options. Incineration or pyrolysis is technically challenging. Most of it goes to secure landfills. Exactly how much is sent to landfill is hard to quantify because CCA makes up a portion of demolition waste which is often unsorted. A 2021 New Zealand Ministry for the Environment report showed almost three million tonnes of class 2 to 5 waste is sent to landfill each year. Construction and demolition waste could be in classes 2-4 and contain CCA timber. Scientists at Scion have been researching removing CCA from treated timber at the end of its life and separating it into individual elements. Senior technologist Sean Taylor discovered there could be a way to remove CCA from the timber in 2015 and began research to find an efficient removal process. By 2017 he had figured out how to remove it from up to about 350 kilograms of hogged (shredded) timber at a time, achieving 95% removal at both bench and pilot scale. The early successes led to a NZ$163,000 Waste Minimisation Fund grant to continue investigating the feasibility of remediating treated timber. Taylor has made good progress removing CCA and recovering the copper and arsenic, but more work needs to be done recovering individual elements particularly isolating a high enough percentage of chromium. “The issue became how can we get the metal components out and how can we isolate them individually?” Mr Taylor said. While a future use for the remediated timber and recovered elements would need to be determined by users, once successfully isolated, the elements could then be reused in things like electronics or compound metals, keeping them in the circular bioeconomy. “If you’re just taking it out of the timber and putting it into a bucket, you’re just moving the problem around.” Mr Taylor says a solution to CCA timber is vital because putting it in the landfill or worse, burning it without suitable technology and infrastructure, is “not the wise or right thing to do long term”. Mr Taylor, and Distributed and Circular Manufacturing portfolio leader, Marc Gaugler, hope by showing industry that CCA removal is possible there will be interest in funding the solution to the problem. Mr Gaugler says we need to find solutions that align with circular bioeconomy goals, make the most of resources and recover materials. “Because it’s CCA-treated it’s not going to degrade in many, many decades – that is why we make it. However, it’s an organic material going into landfill,” he said. “Scion’s Circular Manufacturing programme aims to show wood materials can go into circularity beyond burning … We can use new technology to solve hard and old challenges.” Mr Gaugler says Scion has shown there are end-of-use options for CCA-treated timber, but it needs to happen on a large scale. The question is who pays for resource recovery and waste management addressing the issue and adding value by eliminating a problem. Taylor and Gaugler suggest selling recovered timber and chemicals could be a way to offset processing costs, and mobile technology would avoid the need to ship waste timber for processing. Around the world, other countries have already stopped or restricted the use of CCA or established viable disposal options. New Zealand’s Ministry for the Environment’s Waste and Resource Efficiency director Shaun Lewis says the ministry is focused on initiatives that enable the Emissions Reduction Plan 2023-2025 actions and the current Waste Strategy. For end-of-life wood products, this centres on reducing and diverting construction and demolition waste from landfill towards more beneficial uses. “The ministry is collaborating across government and with industry on reducing construction waste, recovering resources, and exploring more circular options for construction materials. “There is a particular focus on treated and non-treated timber and addressing the challenge of separating these processed wood products at the end of their life to enable more circular end-of-life options from a waste hierarchy lens.” He says Scion’s work, supported by the Waste Minimisation Fund, helped address some of these challenges.

Encouraging a wider variety of applicants to apply for government boards is the focus of a new online tool, launched by the Australian Government. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Portfolio Boards Register enables eligible applicants to register their interest to be on one of the boards. Source: Timberbiz Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said it was a chance for motivated and passionate applicants of all backgrounds that have an interest in the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector to roll their sleeves up and have a go. “There are 18 different portfolio boards that fall under the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry sector,” Minister Watt said. “They reflect the different needs of the portfolio – from primary producers, to research and development corporations, to examining drought preparedness across the food and fibre industry. “Given the broad cross-section of topics these boards look after, we’re hoping to see a wider range of Australians putting their hands up and get involved on these boards. “This includes more women, more young people and more indigenous Australians. Minister Watt said he hoped to see new and upcoming talent who have an interest to shape the future of agricultural work stepping forward. “Working on a portfolio board is a great opportunity to participate in setting strategic direction, engage with stakeholders and are to work with the Government on growing our agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors. “Since taking up my role as Agriculture Minister, I’ve met people from all walks of life who work to create more sustainable, productive and profitable food and fibre industries. “These individuals have shared wonderful insights into topics such as promoting better resource management practices, innovation, sovereign capability, and improved access to international markets. “It would be great to see this breadth of the public and the industry reflected in the portfolio boards. If you’re involved in the sector, then you should embrace the opportunity to have a say in its future.” To register your interest, visit https://www.agriculture.gov.au/boards

Private Forests Tasmania’s new chair Jim Wilson is no stranger to Tasmania’s, or Australia’s, forestry industry. Mr Wilson is a respected and innovated forestry leader with a background in rural industries and specialises in plantation forestry. Source: Timberbiz Upon his appointment as Chair, Mr Wilson said Private Forests Tasmania was uniquely placed to lead a new era in the development of the state’s private forest estate. “The envy of national counterparts, Private Forests Tasmania is a partnership between private growers and Government with a legislated responsibility to facilitate and expand the sustainable development of the private forest estate,” he said. “And it’s a big opportunity. Already Tasmania’s private forest estate produces more than 70% of Tasmania’s wood supply, but the bigger opportunity is to more actively engage with private native forests, as part of the farm enterprise, and to sensibly integrate plantation forests on farm, such that farm enterprises and farm businesses are more resilient in our changing climate.” Mr Wilson recognised the efforts and dedication of PFT’s previous Chair, Evan Rolley. “Private Forests Tasmania has in recent years laid a foundation for success with the Tree Alliance, and I pay tribute to outgoing Chair Mr Evan Rolley who has championed great work at Private Forests Tasmania, leveraging experience from a lifelong career in Tasmania’s forest sector.” “Looking forward, I am delighted to be working alongside Non-Executive Directors Dr Jo Jones, Mr Robert O’Connor, Ms Alice Herbon, and most recently Mr Bob Rutherford. Together a great base of skills and perspectives to support the team led by newly appointed Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Dr Elizabeth Pietrzykowski. “For these reasons, I am enthusiastic about the role Private Forests Tasmania has, and the value proposition the team of associated stakeholders has in making good things happen.” Mr Wilson joined the Board as a director on 1 August 2021 and has been named as Chair for the length of his term. He is a Registered Forestry Professional and graduated from the AICD and Australian Rural Leadership Program. In 2023, he was elected as vice president of Forestry Australia – the professional association for forest scientists, professionals, managers and growers.

Forestry Australia has appointed South Australia’s Monique Blason and Victoria’s Ruth Ryan as new board members. Source: Timberbiz Forestry Australia CEO Jacquie Martin said Ms Blason and Ms Ryan would bring exceptional experience in filling the casual vacancy positions. “Monique and Ruth’s experience in softwood plantations, fire management, stakeholder engagement, policy and regulation will make a valuable addition to the board’s skillset,” Ms Martin said. “Monique has a 30-year career covering policy and regulation development, focused on public land, fire and biodiversity management, community and stakeholder engagement as well as developing and coordinating whole of government emergency management, crisis resilience, public safety regulation in South Australia. “Ruth is a Forestry Australia Fellow and has more than 40 years’ experience in forestry and fire in Australia, with a focus on commercial softwood plantation management in Victoria and was appointed to the European Union funded FIRE-RES research project and The Commonwealth’s Wildfire Resilient Landscapes Network.” Ms Blason said she was honoured to have been asked to join the Forestry Australia Board. “I look forward to contributing to the collective knowledge and leadership of the Board to advocate for sustainable forest management and to support and develop our members,” she said. Ms Ryan said she had a long-time member of Forestry Australia and was proud to be amongst the early cohort of Registered Forestry Professionals. “I have always believed in the sense and purpose of the organisation to promote professionalism and dialogue to ensure wise management of our forests,” she said. “I am excited by the recent revitalisation of the organisation and look forward to growing Forestry Australia’s future.” Forestry Australia has also announced the appointment of Emily Post as an additional Board Observer. Ms Martin said the Board Observer position provides a broader point of view and diversity at Board meetings, as well as facilitating pathways for younger members with an interest gaining executive level experience and developing their leadership and governance skills. “We look forward to incorporating and capitalising on Monique, Ruth and Emily’s contribution as we work to increase recognition of the value of sustainable forestry in modern Australian society,” Ms Martin said. Ms Post said that Forestry Australia and the broader forestry community had shown her unwavering support throughout the formative years of her career. “I am humbled and delighted to have been offered an opportunity to contribute to the continued success of Forestry Australia and the professionals it represents,” she said.

The NSW Forestry Corporation will no longer be required to search for endangered greater gliders and their den trees in known habitat areas, under changes to NSW Environment Protection Authority protocols. Source: Timberbiz Instead, loggers will be compelled to protect 14 trees with hollows in them per hectare of forest, an increase from eight under previous rules, in a change the EPA chief executive Tony Chappel said would more effectively protect the animal. He said conducting surveys of the shy nocturnal animal in the past had proven difficult and unreliable. “We have found these surveys to be challenging to adequately capture the location and extent of these den trees,” Mr Chappel said. “So, informed by the scientific literature on gliders, we’ve made a move through this protocol change to protecting what are called hollow bearing trees, which are the most critical element of habitat for the glider.” Environment groups and the Greens have criticised the changes, saying they will lead to the deaths of more gliders, which were once common in Australia’s east coast forests but are now classified as endangered. Mr Chappel said the change was a significant step-forward in the long-term protection of gliders as well as other native animals reliant on hollow-bearing trees such as possums, owls and parrots. “This change means that instead of depending on unreliable point in time surveys to find the habitat of the gliders, we will assume the species is present and conserve their habitat,” Mr Chappel said. “This ensures the critical habitats of some of our most endangered and much-loved native animals are protected. “We have reviewed extensive research, sought expert views and believe this change strikes the right balance, resulting in significant ecological and regulatory improvement to the current arrangements. “We have also consulted FCNSW to ensure any potential timber supply impacts are known and managed. “If non-compliances with these new conditions are found, the EPA will not hesitate to take appropriate regulatory action to ensure greater gliders are being protected in forestry operations.” The new CIFOA requirements include: A 50-metre exclusion zone around known recorded locations of greater glider dens. Protection of extra greater glider trees in addition to existing hollow bearing and giant tree requirements: Six trees per hectare greater than 80cm in diameter in high greater glider density areas, in addition to the eight hollow bearing trees currently required to be protected. Four trees per hectare greater than 50cm in diameter in lower density areas, in addition to the eight hollow bearing trees currently required to be protected. The retention of additional hollows and future hollow-bearing trees in areas where greater gliders are less likely to occur. Greater glider trees must prioritise hollows (especially ones with evidence of use) where they exist. Undertaking of a monitoring program to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of these new rules for greater gliders.

Metcash’s move to buy three businesses for a combined $560 million is a long-term play aimed at bolstering the ASX-listed company’s operations across food distribution and hardware, chief executive Doug Jones said. Sources: Brisbane Times, Timberbiz The operator of retailers including IGA, Mitre 10 and Cellarbrations suspended trading in its shares on Monday to announce the acquisition of foodservice distribution business Superior Food Group, Bianco Construction Supplies and framing and truss operator Alpine Truss. The purchases will be funded through a $300 million capital raising and up to $278 million from existing cash and debt. The $82.2 million acquisition of Bianco Construction Supplies and the $64 million purchase of Alpine Truss will bolster Metcash’s hardware portfolio, which consists of Mitre 10, Home Timber & Hardware, and Total Tools. Making up 42% of total earnings, its hardware portfolio has become a growth and profit driver for Metcash. Bianco and Alpine “align completely” and are “highly complementary” to Metcash’s broader hardware strategy, the company stated in a presentation deck to investors, pointing to broader customer offerings, higher market share and greater network expansion. Acquisition rationale Supports IHG’s ‘Whole of House’ growth strategy Expanding Frame & Truss (F&T) operations into Victoria and in South Australia/Northern Territory adding a large trade operation with a strong focus on foundation stage of a house Accelerates IHG’s network expansion Increases market share in the attractive trade hardware category, through the addition of one Alpine Truss location and 10 Bianco locations. Alpine Frame & Truss is one of Australia’s largest Frame & Truss operations, operating since 2002 and located in Wangaratta, Victoria. It is a well-equipped, well-run operation with a long history of capital investment and services small to large volume builders across Victoria and Southern New South Wales. George Prothero will remain as managing director of Alpine Frame & Truss. Bunnings, which is owned by Wesfarmers, has more than 50% of the total market share of the Australian hardware and DIY market and has been active in gaining a better foothold in the frame and truss market.