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New legislation is on the horizon and the packaging industry is hurrying to find sustainable options without compromising on protective qualities and performance. Source: Timberbiz Across industries, companies relying on packaging are facing urgent and complex challenges. Plastic taxes, bans, the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), and the critical need to reduce carbon emissions are driving a major shift. The time for disruptive change is here and legislation is catching up. The move away from fossil-based materials is no longer optional. It’s becoming mandatory, with legislation gaining speed across markets. Here’s what’s coming: Plastic must be recyclable√ Plastic must be recycled at scale √ Minimum levels of recycled content in packaging Re-use targets for packaging. For companies involved in packaging and shipping, the carbon footprint of transportation is well known. Reducing the carbon footprint in every part of the value chain including packaging, is becoming business critical. Because of this, there is a rising demand for materials that are not only more sustainable, but also protective and high performing. “As plastic taxes, bans, and extended producer responsibility fees rise, the need for viable alternatives will only grow both from producers and consumers. Companies that aren’t proactive risk higher costs and increased administrative burdens,” said Juulia Kuhlman Business Development Director Wood foam at Stora Enso. At Stora Enso is working with biomaterials, after decades of research and development on how to phase out fossils and find a sustainable alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. “The implementation of PPWR will drive a strong move towards recycled content within the EU. However, limited supply in the secondary market means demand and prices will inevitably rise,” said Mr Kuhlman. “Our renewable packaging innovations are helping phase out fossil-based expanded polystyrene (EPS) a plastic that is notoriously difficult to recycle by offering high-performance, more sustainable alternatives.” Stora Enso Wood foam is a sustainable game changer in protective packaging, a recyclable alternative sourced from sustainably managed forests. Easy to fabricate and offering both flexible and rigid options. Fibrease is a bio-based, flexible and lightweight wood foam. Designed to replace fossil polymer foams in protective packaging, Fibrease offers thermal insulation and memory foam–like properties all while being recyclable. Papira is a semi-rigid, wood-based foam made from renewable materials. The foam is recyclable with paper & board globally, biodegradable and plastic free. With excellent cushioning performance, Papira is ideal for protective packaging and is currently produced at our pilot plant. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic foams reducing plastic waste and helping companies meet future regulations.

Choosing the right trees to plant is key to successful forest restoration and now there’s a tool to make it easier. Source: Timberbiz At a recent SUPERB workshop in León, Spain, “Seed4Forest” was launched, it is a free, online, decision-making tool that helps users find suitable and productive tree species for any location in Europe. Debojyoti Chakraborty, Senior Scientist at the Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW), presented this innovative new tool and showed its diverse features in action. With science-based guidance, “Seed4Forest” offers the user: To see which type of trees already grow well in your area now Understand what type of tree species can thrive within an area’s future climate Explore species combinations that can boost both resilience and biodiversity Find recommended seed sources for your chosen tree species Export your results as a PDF for easy reference and access anytime “Seed4Forest” was developed within SUPERB project in collaboration with the Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW). Try the tool here https://app.seed4forest.org/

Timber yards, panel product suppliers, and sawmill operations face ever-increasing pressure to handle long and heavy loads more safely, more efficiently, and with less environmental impact. Now Combilift has unveiled two major innovations designed specifically with these industry challenges in mind: the new Combi-FSE 8000 and the Combi-Xtender. Source: Timberbiz The latest addition to Combilift’s four-wheel electric sideloader range, the Combi-FSE 8000, offers an 8-tonne lift capacity, ideal for handling structural timber, packs of sawn wood, panels, or engineered wood products in confined indoor or outdoor environments. Key timber-focused benefits include: Powerful, Emission-Free Operation: Twin 18kW drive motors provide the torque and responsiveness required for heavy packs, with all-electric performance suited for indoor timber stores. Patented Traction and Steering: Designed for year-round reliability in muddy or uneven yard conditions. Unrivalled Operator Visibility: The under-deck battery position and expansive glazing allow operators a clear line of sight, especially when reversing in narrow racking aisles or busy sawmill loading areas. Quick Battery Change: Ideal for multi-shift operations in busy timber yards. Fleet managers also benefit from Combi-Connect, Combilift’s advanced telematics system for real-time machine performance tracking and maintenance planning. Unveiled alongside the sideloader, the Combi Load Xtender is a new pantograph-style load extender that enables complete loading and unloading of trailers or rail wagons from a single side — a major advantage in timber yards where space is tight or trailer access is limited. For timber operations, the Xtender delivers: One-Side Access: Load full packs of timber from one side only, removing the need to move trailers or access both sides. Ultra low mechanism height: Its ultra-compact design ensures smooth movement and full functionality below standard trailer height without interference. Enhanced Safety: Operators can load securely against the far closed side of the trailer, reducing the risk of products falling and keeping personnel out of busy traffic zones. “These new solutions were developed in direct response to what we’re hearing from the timber sector,” said Martin McVicar, CEO, Combilift. “Customers need to move larger loads in tighter spaces with greater safety and lower emissions. The FSE 8000 and Combi Load Xtender do just that — and they’re backed by Combilift’s proven track record in long-load innovation.”

There’s nothing like reaching a lookout and seeing the vast forest landscape stretching to the horizon. Here are some of the best lookouts across Victoria. Source: Timberbiz Keppel Lookout, Marysville State Forest As far as beautiful forest views, you can’t go past Keppel Lookout. A large viewing platform leads to epic scenery overlooking the Marysville township, the Cathedral Range State Park, Steavensons Falls and the Acheron Valley. It’s a 12-minute drive from Marysville and about 20 metres from the car park via a short, graveled pathway. Or if you prefer to work for your view, challenge yourself to the 11 km walk via the Keppel Lookout Trail. Craig’s Hut, Mount Stirling For awe inspiring alpine views, Craig’s Hut is just the place. Constructed for the 1983 Man from Snowy River movie, you can see why this location was chosen, featuring unrivalled views over Mount Cobbler and the Upper King River Valley. You can access the hut and these magnificent views 1 hour and 15 minutes from Merrijig, either directly by 4WD or by 2WD and a 1.2 km walking track. Mount Timbertop For alpine views that are just as stunning on the other side of Mt Buller, head to Mount Timbertop, 16 minutes from Merijig. Accessible only by foot, the 5.5 km return Mount Timbertop Walk is worth every step for the epic view that awaits, looking out across the Delatite Valley and Victorian Alps. The Apex Lookout Walk For incredible views across Bright and the Victorian Alps including Mt Feathertop, Mt Fainter and Mt Bogong head to The Apex Lookout Walk—a 3.2 km return trip from the car park which is 1.6 km from Bright township. Huggins Lookout For a different perspective on Bright, walk the 1.6 km return walk to Huggins Lookout on the other side of town. Ben Nevis, Mt Cole/Beeripmo State Forest Or if you’re travelling west, drive 30 minutes north-west of Beaufort to Ben Nevis. Pack a picnic for gorgeous views over the Grampians Ranges to the west and the Pyrenees Ranges to the north. And if hang gliding is your thing, Ben Nevis is the place, known for its great ‘thermals’—conditions that allow hang gliders to gain altitude. Seven Acre Rock, Yarra State Forest Enjoy a sweeping panorama of Bunyip State Park at Seven Acre Rock, a 16 minute drive from Powelltown. On clear days, you’ll be able to see all the way across to Western Port and Port Phillip Bays.

Well-treated radiata pine can stand the test of time and Scion has the evidence to prove it. The Crown Research Institute was asked to conduct a detailed analysis on a laminated radiata pine cross-arm installed on the Desert Rd as part of the New Zealand Electricity Department’s transmission network. Source: Timberbiz The cross-arm had been lying on one side on dunnage (loose wood, matting, or similar material) 100mm off the ground, for more than 15 years. It had undergone regular assessments until 1990 as part of Scion’s long-term service test program. This recent analysis aimed to assess the cross-arm’s current condition and help predict the remaining service life of similar units still in service. Scion’s timber durability researchers conducted a visual and microscopic inspection, which revealed localised decay – mainly due to brown rot fungi – where the cross-arm had been in contact with the ground. At this site, the effective cross-sectional dimensions were reduced by 10%–15%. However, the remainder of the cross-arm showed no significant signs of deterioration. Structural testing showed the cross-arm retained an average bending strength (MoR1) of 22 megapascals (MPa), meeting the characteristic strength requirement for GL10-grade2 laminated timber. After removing just a few millimetres from the surface, Scion’s team found the underlying timber was still in excellent condition – a remarkable discovery given the cross-arm’s age. Dr Tripti Singh, Scion’s timber durability expert, says the cross-arm performed as properly treated timber should. “While preservative penetration was likely limited – due to the impermeability at the glue lines and treatment after fabrication – the timber still demonstrated outstanding long-term durability. “This case is a testament to the effectiveness of proper timber treatment and thoughtful engineering, showing that radiata pine, when handled correctly, can deliver exceptional performance for decades.”

Ministers and heads of agriculture and forestry departments from 22 Pacific nations including Australia are gathering in Tonga this week for the 2025 Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry (PWAF) to deliberate on the future of the region’s agriculture and forestry sectors. Source: Timberbiz Led by the Government of Tonga, with assistance from SPC and FAO, the Pacific Week will feature the Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry, as well as the Regional Meeting of the Pacific Heads of Agriculture and Forestry Services. Additionally, it will include a series of side events focused on important topics from the main theme: More Regeneration: Addressing issues related to soils, genetic biodiversity of crops, forests, livestock, ecology, organics, and the environment. More Productivity: Focusing on rural farmers, women and youth, livelihoods, food security, and the production of crops, livestock, and forests. More Resilience: Biosecurity and pest management, Enhancing pre-disaster preparedness, improving the capacity to withstand and recover from disasters, and adapting to rising sea levels and temperatures through research and adoption. The PWAF is a biannual event that brings together leaders, experts, and stakeholders from the agriculture and forestry sectors in the Pacific region to discuss key challenges and opportunities facing these sectors. PWAF centres around the 9th Regional Meeting of the Pacific Heads of Agriculture and Forestry Services and the FAO SPC Joint Agriculture and Forestry Ministerial Meeting. Complementing these high-level meetings of Ministers and senior officials will be 29 side events throughout the week, focusing on themes – climate change, soils, genetic biodiversity of crops, forests, livestock, ecology, organics, and the environment. Participants at PWAF will have the opportunity to hear from leading experts in the field, attend interactive workshops and sessions, and network with industry professionals.

New Zealand Forestry and Trade Minister, Todd McClay announced a new Cooperation Arrangement between New Zealand and Vietnam that will grow timber exports and remove potential trade barriers for the forestry sector. Source: Timberbiz The arrangement will see New Zealand’s radiata pine recognised under Vietnam’s evolving timber construction standards, opening more opportunities in this growing market. “This will grow our NZ$2.68 billion two-way trade and significantly bolster the NZ$48 million worth of sawn timber we currently export into Viet Nam,” Mr McClay said. “Vietnam’s economy has more than doubled in the past decade and is expected to see some of the fastest global income growth over the next. “That means more construction, more demand for sustainable products and more opportunity for New Zealand timber. “This agreement adds value to New Zealand wood products and offers opportunities in addition to exporting logs. It boosts our export potential and helps double our exports by value in 10 years.”

The 2025 Australian Timber Design Competition challenged student teams across Australia to design sustainable, future-focused timber athlete accommodation for a hypothetical Olympic Village, balancing innovation, constructability, environmental performance, and cultural consideration. Source: Timberbiz Despite balancing full-time study and short timeframes, the submissions that came through were thoughtful, creative, and deeply impressive. The following three teams were selected as finalists and will be heading to the World Conference on Timber Engineering (WCTE) 2025 in Brisbane to present their work and connect with global industry leaders. Finalist teams with highlights from the judges: Team 2 This submission stood out for its in-depth structural thinking and innovative use of timber systems. Judges highlighted the team’s enthusiasm for circular construction, thoughtful material selection, and modular design principles. Their approach to timber-only construction sparked engaging conversations around sustainable assembly and future reuse. Judge Grant Maher said that this team’s project was beautifully researched and technically detailed. He continued that it was a confident and creative expression of what timber can achieve. Team 2 members: Luke Hammond (University of Tasmania), Jessica Tuttle (University of Queensland), and Kan Peanpanich (Queensland University of Technology) Team 3 Praised for their holistic and well-resolved approach, this team delivered a compelling master plan that balanced community, adaptability, and sustainability. Judges appreciated the project’s flexibility over time, transforming high-density athlete housing into long-term, affordable homes and its sensitive integration of cultural and environmental values. Judge Sam Charles-Ginn said that this team’s submission had a comprehensive design with strong planning, beautiful visuals, and strong thinking. The judges agreed that the team clearly worked together to deliver something impactful. Team 3 members: Charlie Bradley-Tasser (University of Queensland), Tamara Birtasevic (Queensland University of Technology), and Rea Li (University of Sydney) Team 5 Judges admired this team’s emphasis on cultural integration, modularity, and accessible construction methods. The concept proposed the use of lightweight, easy-to-source materials, and reflected strong social and environmental values, with potential for scalable impact. Judge Jonathan Evans said that this team presented a thoughtful and creative idea. He mentioned that there was care put into this design and that it presented a lot of potential to explore further. Team 5 members: Michael Moore (Queensland University of Technology), Akanksha Agarwal (University of Sydney), Caitlin Muller (Queensland University of Technology), and Karen Rondeau (University of Queensland). Each finalist team will receive a travel bursary and full sponsorship to attend WCTE 2025, where they’ll showcase their ideas to a global audience of design, engineering, and construction professionals. The judges and steering committee were unanimous in their praise for the teams’ creativity, dedication, and collaboration. Whether it was tackling modular housing, cultural sensitivity, or low-carbon construction methods, all three submissions showed that Australia’s emerging design talent is ready to take timber to new heights. The 2025 judging panel was Grant Maher, Jonathan Evans, Steph Wyeth, Katie Fowden, and Sam Charles-Ginn.

The Australian Forest Products Association is backing a new two-year saw doctor and wood machinist pilot training trial aimed at boosting these much-needed forestry sector skills. Source: Timberbiz “There is a national shortage of saw technicians and wood machinists and it’s critical that we have efficient, accessible and fit for purpose training to support these important specialised skills across both softwood and hardwood processing and manufacturing,” AFPA CEO Diana Hallam said. “Saw makers and repairers are not currently listed on the Core Skills and Occupation List.” This pilot training trial will be delivered in conjunction with Timber Training Creswick and TAFE NSW with support from employers and the Australian Government’s $10 million Forestry Workforce Training Program being administered by ForestWorks. “Attracting new people into the industry begins at school and we hope that this pilot training trial can go some way to encouraging more young people to consider fulfilling careers in these specialised areas that are critical for timber manufacturing,” Ms Hallam said. ForestWorks CEO, Mike Radda said saw doctors and wood machinists were professions that are experiencing shortages of qualified personnel. “We’re proud to be involved in this pilot training trial,” he said. “It’s important that we provide the required training here in Australia for people who want to undertake it – as a dual option with importing these skills from overseas.” Ms Hallam said Australia’s forestry and timber sector was Australia’s sixth largest manufacturing sector, drove the housing sector, and the need for product would only get more important as the country and different industries look to decarbonise by using timber and wood-fibre. “We need to attract more people to our growing sector to fill the variety of important vocations we need to function,” she said. “This trial aims to make it easier for regional businesses to employ, train and retain skilled tradespeople. We are working to carefully identify industry needs, and to test a practical and pragmatic training solution including exploring the advantages of on-site employee training. AFPA will work with expert RTOs and businesses, in different states to make sure training is tailored and fit for purpose. “We are proud to be working in this space with trusted industry education partners and look forward to positive training outcomes and reduced skills shortages across the forestry and the timber sector.”

AKD has purchased Pentarch Forestry’s 50% shareholding of Highland Pine Products Pty Ltd in Oberon. HPP is currently a 50/50 joint venture business owned by AKD and Pentarch Forestry, with the primary asset being the Oberon sawmill. Source: Timberbiz The sawmill processes over 500,000 m3 of plantation grown sawlogs and produces a range of structural, landscape and packaging products. Post this acquisition, AKD will process nearly 2,000,000 m3 of sawlog per annum, producing over 1,000,000 m3 of timber from the Colac, Caboolture, Oberon, Tumut and Yarram sawmills. “The Oberon acquisition is consistent with AKD’s focus on operating high quality, strategically located sawmills, and represents an opportunity to provide an improved supply and product range for customers and the broader timber supply chain,” AKD’s Chief Executive Officer, Shane Vicary said. “As a joint venture partner in the business since 2018, AKD has had an opportunity to work with the talented team in Oberon and see the opportunities that exist on the site and in the region and we are excited about the future. “We are looking forward to working directly with the Oberon team as we welcome them to the broader AKD business of over 1000 employees. “The acquisition enhances our ability to service both existing and new customers and we look forward to strengthening relationships with suppliers and continuing to provide a positive contribution to the Oberon community”. AKD acknowledged and thanked Pentarch for its positive and constructive contribution to the HPP partnership and wishes it success for the future. The acquisition is consistent with AKD’s approach of growth through a mix of strategic acquisition and capital investment and further highlights its 70-year commitment to the Australian timber and building industries by investing for the future. Completion of the transaction is expected to occur on 1 July 2025.