Australian timber industry news

In the early 1800s, more than 500,000 acres of red spruce forests blanketed the Appalachian Mountains. As the population realized the value of red spruce, it became heavily logged for paper, construction lumber and musical instruments. In the 1970s and 1980s, the same lands were worked for surface and underground mining, further reducing red spruce forests until less than 50,000 acres remained. Source: Timberbiz As a haven for West Virginia northern flying squirrel and endangered Cheat Mountain salamander, the red spruce plays a vital role in ecological communities. Numerous conservation groups, like Green Forests Work (GFW), have been established to bring back the native tree and restore the lands to their natural forest state. Creating ideal soil conditions on former mined land for the red spruce trees to take root is a difficult task, requiring large machinery and agricultural knowledge. Komatsu began a partnership with GFW in 2019 as part of their reforestation program to provide machinery, financial and manpower assistance to their projects. To date, the partnership between GFW, Komatsu, and the US Forest Service has resulted in the planting of more than 800 acres with over 575,000 native tree and shrub seedlings, and nearly 650 wetlands have been created. Tree survival rates typically exceed 90% thanks to the GFW’s methods of soil preparation using Komatsu equipment. “To see Komatsu machinery expertly craft channels for planting is incredible. In our mission to be good stewards of the Earth, our machines are providing the care and quality touch the lands need to become a thriving forest,” Rod Schrader, chairman and CEO – Komatsu North America says. Red spruce growth is divided into three stages: sleeping phase, creeping phase and leaping phase. The sleeping phase occurs from planting through year three, during which time the trees begin establishing their roots. In years three through seven, the creeping phase, trees begin to grow in height; this is the stage trees Komatsu employees planted are currently in. The leaping phase encompasses years seven through 10 and occurs as the trees compete for sunlight space. Canopy enclosure begins at this phase. Following year 10, the forest becomes more self-sustaining and wildlife habitats flourish. The Komatsu partnership with GFW mirrors the growing phases of the red spruce. In the first phase, the partners focused on soil preparation and tree planting. As that proved successful, the project moved into the second phase — pond decommissioning. The teams worked to convert sediment ponds that remained from mining reclamation into wetlands and forest habitat to protect cold-water streams that support native brook trout. In the next phase of the project, we will see teams explore new sites and transform them back to their native states prior to surface mining. “The financial and equipment donations from Komatsu have greatly accelerated the restoration work and improved the outcomes. We look forward to continuing this partnership and expanding the scope of these restoration projects in the coming years,” Michael French, Director of Operations for Green Forest Works, said.

The NZFOA/NZFFA Transport and Logistics committee has released a new appendix to the New Zealand Forest Owners Road Engineering Manual, titled Forest Roads for High Productivity Motor Vehicles with Two Drive Axle Log Trucks. Source: Timberbiz Prepared by Paul van der Voort from Forest Management NZ, and supported by funding from the Forest Growers Levy Trust, this update provides essential guidance for designing forest roads to accommodate High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs). HPMV trucks, which can carry up to 58 tonnes and extend to 23 metres in length, have become popular in the forestry sector. However, these vehicles require different road design considerations compared with older, smaller configurations. The original manual’s design specifications, based on trucks with a 44-tonne capacity and 20-metre length, are no longer sufficient for the heavier longer HPMVs. This appendix offers practical solutions to address these challenges. It includes updated charts for curve widening, recommendations for road gradient, camber, and pavement materials, and emphasizes the importance of road surface compaction. It also discusses the increased stress on roads due to heavier axle loads, advising on pavement design and construction. Additionally, the appendix acknowledges the critical role of driver skill in navigating forest roads, especially in difficult conditions, and provides recommendations for situations where HPMVs may not be suitable. This update is a valuable resource for forest road engineers and planners, ensuring roads are safe, efficient, and capable of handling modern truck configurations while adhering to environmental standards.

Trade businesses have been put on alert for cyber-attacks and should review their digital security measures after a data leak hit major Australian hardware chain Total Tools. Source: Timberbiz COSBOA CEO Luke Achterstraat has warned businesses in the construction and trades industry of the threat of secondary attacks following revelations of a data leak which could affect more than 38,000 customers. “It is critical for tradespeople and anyone in the construction industry with online hardware business accounts to be on heightened alert for suspicious activity in the coming hours, days and weeks, as cyber criminals try to use the stolen data for nefarious purposes,” he said. “We are warning businesses to be aware of scams and secondary attacks and take steps to secure your sensitive data, finances and client information. Enrolling in the free Cyber Wardens program, supported by the Federal government, only takes two minutes to help every small business and their employees protect themselves from cyber-attacks.” Customer data including names, credit card details, email addresses, Total Tools passwords, mobile numbers and shipping addresses have been compromised in the leak. COSBOA and its member organisations, including Master Builders Association, the National Timber and Hardware Association, and the Master Grocers Association, are working together to alert small business owners and their employees to take immediate steps to protect their personal and business information. The free Cyber Wardens eLearning program, funded by the Federal government, has been designed to help Australia’s 2.5 million small businesses fortify their digital doors against cybercrime. Businesses concerned they have been targeted are urged to call the Australian Cyber Security Hotline on 1300 CYBER1 (1300 292 371).

Mandating the processing of resource consents to within 1-year for wood processing facilities and related activities announced by the New Zealand Government as part of the resource management reform proposals is welcomed by the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association. Source: Timberbiz “In the current period of uncertainty due to escalating energy prices, it is encouraging to hear of the positive actions the government is proposing under the RMA reform to incentiv-ise industry development, while at the same time safeguarding our environment,” said Wood Processors and Manufacturers Chief Executive, Mark Ross. “We thank the Minister responsible for reform, Chris Bishop, and Act MP and parliamentary under-secretary Simon Court for listening to our members and providing the leadership needed to back future development of both new and existing wood processing facilities. “With examples of resource consent renewal taking up to 13 years and costing in excess of $2 million due to the drawn-out regional council processes, a more efficient system is essential.” Wood processing investments are capital intensive and long lived. Once established the ‘sunk cost’ and “make good” implications can be considerable, meaning that much of the focus of our members has been on renewing and upgrading existing operations, with excessive cost and uncertainty resulting in less focus on new and innovative investments. As a low net emissions industry, wood processing offers many public benefits, including being a high-value regional employer, adding value to commodities that are otherwise export-ed in raw form, along with providing domestic resilience in terms of the supply of building materials, residues for sustainable packaging and biofuel. WPMA looks forward to working alongside the resource management reform expert panel and officials to ensure that the new Resource Management settings are effective for incentivising future investment and growth within our industry.  

Paperboard producers in Australia lifted their use of recovered paper to an all-time high in 2023-24. Local producers used 1.879 million tonnes of recovered paper for the year, a lift of 8.2% or 142,000 tonnes on the prior year. Source: IndustryEdge Growth in local use of recovered paper was driven by a change in production away from printing and communication papers (like copy paper) and toward recycled corrugated packaging. Analysis for the 2024 Pulp & Paper Strategic Reviews identifies the large uplift in local recovered paper use as one of the major features of a year in which global and local fibre balances were changing and remained disrupted. Higher prices for pulp, sustained high prices for recovered paper and inventory and supply chain disruptions all fed the global market, but saw local use of recovered paper power on, despite the potential allure of international opportunities and pricing. As a result of the increased use of recovered fibre and a sharp (and directly linked) fall in use of virgin fibre pulp, Australia’s fibre balance shifted sharply to a record high for recovered paper, rising to 57.2% of total fibre used in the Australian paper and paperboard manufacturing industry. Australia’s Proportional Recovered Paper Use: 2014 – 2024 (%) Evidence that Australia continues to collect large volumes of recovered paper, for local use and export, continued in 2023-24, with total exports also rising. Exports returned to growth over the year, lifting over the 1.0 million tonne mark, after falling back the prior year. Full details, charts and tables will be provided in the 2024 Pulp & Paper Strategic Reviews, due for release in mid-October. For more information www.industryedge.com.au

The appointment of the Master Builders Australia to the National Construction Industry Forum (NCIF) has been described as another positive step in tackling key challenges faced by the building and construction industry. Source: Timberbiz “As the only industry body representing the commercial, civil and residential sectors of the industry, it makes sense to have a seat at the table,” Master Builders CEO Denita Wawn said. She said the building and construction industry was at a critical juncture. “It’s important that all key stakeholders are around the table to discuss and progress reforms in relation to the massive issues facing the industry,” she said. “This is the opportunity for meaningful and positive change in the industry. “The forum needs to have a clear focus on reversing declining productivity and stamping out unlawful and corrupt conduct, so we deliver on the housing and supporting infrastructure needs Australians rightly expect from us. “There is still a long way to go until we fix the poor culture in some areas of the industry and stamp out this unlawful and intimidatory behaviour once and for all. “Given the multitude of investigations going on and previous Royal Commissions, we hope the Minister keeps an open mind to the need for an industry-specific regulator with sweeping powers and resources. “Our members are telling us that there are too many instances of conduct falling through the cracks because of limited powers and resources for regulators and law enforcement agencies. “Master Builders’ Building Breaking Bad proposal outlines sensible measures to improve industry culture and ensure the errors of the past are not repeated. “We look forward to continuing our constructive relationship with Minister Watt and members of the NCIF,” Ms Wawn said.

Cattle Australia (CA) has launched its Land Management Commitment (LMC) strategic policy, which emphasises the primacy of agricultural land and includes definitions of deforestation and forest in the Australian context, along with four recommendations for implementation. Source: Timberbiz CA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chris Parker, said the LMC was a vital piece of work centred on the continued development of a national framework that grows efficient and resilient beef businesses, thriving rural communities, and protects and enhances the unique Australian environment. “Through this work, CA has undertaken the necessary assessment of voluntary international frameworks, the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the unique Australian context, to provide a clear pathway to deliver sustainable beef products to both our domestic and international customers,” Dr Parker said. “In a modern global context where Australia is a key player in the global beef trade, exporting over $10 billion annually, the alignment of Australian definitions with global definitions to ensure equivalency is crucial. “Globally, there is clear recognition of the importance of food production, and Australian definitions enable us to demonstrate the Australian regional context and the land management practices vital to maintaining food production, healthy landscapes and biodiversity.” Dr Parker said the implementation of the LMC definitions and recommendations would result in more certainty for Australian beef producers as they manage agricultural land to produce high-quality beef for the world. In addition, land management practices would continue for the benefit of the environment and biodiversity and ensure equitable market opportunities. “The outcome of the work is a decision tree model and educational information on the routine land management practices supported by the Australian State, Territory and Federal legislation through case studies, to ensure easy implementation for producers and the wider industry.” Under the LMC, deforestation is the illegal clearing of trees on land, used for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes, that violates vegetation management laws and where trees exceed forest thresholds. Agricultural land is defined as land used for the production of food and fibre, including the grazing of livestock. Agricultural land use is demonstrated under the national Australian Land Use Management (ALUM) Classification system, with the majority of Australian grass-fed beef produced on Class 2 land type – Production from Relatively Natural Environments. Dr Parker said Australian producers already abide by some of the strictest vegetation management laws in the world, and the LMC would complement these to ensure the beef sector, and broader agriculture, can continue demonstrating sustainability credentials to meet changing market access requirements. “Australia has more than 136 existing vegetation laws embedded in State, Territory and Federal legislation that protects the environment and biodiversity, representative of the complexity of the 89 bioregions within the Australian landscape,” Dr Parker said. “As custodians of more than 50% of the country’s land mass, the Australian grass-fed beef industry grazes on 325 million hectares of native vegetation and over 46 million hectares of modified pastures. “We are proud to play a part in ensuring the sustainability and prosperity of our environment for generations to come through responsible land management – a role we take extremely seriously.” Forest is defined as an area, incorporating all living and non-living components, dominated by trees having usually a single stem and a mature or potentially mature stand height exceeding two metres, and with existing or potential crown cover of overstorey strata about equal to or greater than 20 per cent. Forest does not include land that is predominantly under agricultural use in line with international definitions. Dr Parker said despite the campaigns of industry detractors, the beef sector’s sustainability credentials are clear. “Australia sits in the top 10 countries globally for protected forest area, with 36% of Australia’s forest on land managed for conservation purposes,” he said. “The total legal land clearing and re-clearing of native forests was 0.134pc in 2020-21, and there has been a net positive change in forest for the past 16 years since 2008. “Invasive plants, pests and diseases are now the number one contributor to biodiversity loss in Australia, which producers spend $5.3 billion annually managing.” To ensure the beef industry can demonstrate its sustainability credentials to attract incentives for biodiversity, market access, and strategic growth, the LMC work has identified four key recommendations: Australian government to manage an accurate and up-to-date (updated annually) national dataset to demonstrate through satellite mapping, agricultural land use, nature and biodiversity. Ensure equivalency with international standards that support producers operating within the Australian context in maintaining market access to both domestic and international markets, and ensure technical barriers to trade are compliant with World Trade Organisation rules. Industry and government tools must be accessible to enable producers to demonstrate the benefits of the co-existence of beef production and biodiversity outcomes. Empower strategic agricultural growth through sustainable development plans that detail strategies that ensure food security, regional economies and local ecosystems are not compromised. Dr Parker said Australian beef producers are already world leaders in environmental and biodiversity management practices. “The LMC work has been undertaken at a time when the supply chain and financial sector are being caught under a broader trend requiring global businesses to publicly disclose the actions they are taking to promote sustainable outcomes for the planet,” Dr Parker said. “These definitions and recommendations are simply a means to ensure we maintain our world-leading reputation and can respond to the changing market access requirements. “The Australian beef industry plays a crucial role in addressing the world’s food security and climate challenges by exporting 70pc of our product to over 100 countries globally. It is vital this role is recognised, and the industry is supported by both the Government and the Australian people.” Read the full Land Management Commitment strategic policy at https://cattleaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CA-LMC-Paper-WEB_FINAL.pdf

Parkside Timber is planning to build a high-impact timber and laminating facility in Wondai, Queensland, contributing to the local timber industry and economy. Sources: Industry Update, Timberbiz It is projected to process up to 6000 tonnes of timber annually once it reaches maximum capacity after five years. It will create 10 full-time jobs. South Burnett Regional Council approved the development permit for Parkside Building Supplies Pty Ltd at a general council meeting in August. The facility at 2-30 Kemp St will focus on manufacturing wooden and laminated products. The facility’s infrastructure will include a glue lines building for finger-joining spotted gum, a racker and stacker building and car parking facilities with a minimum of 42 spaces. A site-based management plan prepared by Range Environmental Consultants classified the potential environmental impacts from the operation as ‘low’. The facility will also produce 5000 to 10,000 tonne of reconstituted timber products annually. Environmental management reviews will be conducted every year. Parkside acquired its first sawmill at Eungella, Queensland which then lead to Parkside expanding its timber sales and building materials business into Townsville in 1966. In 1972, Parkside acquired a larger and more efficient sawmill in Mackay. With a guarantee of its own timber supply. It later bought sawmills at Builyan, Theodore, Wandoan, Eidsvold and Wondai in South West Queensland. In 2019, Parkside expanded its milling operations further by acquiring mills and processing plants at Greenbushes and Nannup in Western Australia, and Orbost and Bairnsdale in Victoria. Parkside is one of Australia’s largest hardwood millers and timber manufacturers producing world class timber products for Australia, Europe, Asia and the Americas. Parkside’s current Wondai dry mill is a world class hardwood dry mill facility that produces hardwood decking, flooring, cladding, F27 and decorative timber.  

As part of the safety expansion of the expressway between St Veit South and North in Germany, new bridges had to be built. One of these is a combination of wood and concrete composites. Source: Timberbiz The Hasslacher group, together with Asfinag, is developing an innovative solution for the Klagenfurt expressway. One of these bridges will be a wood-concrete composite bridge. The wooden component is 21 m long, 1 m thick and has a width of almost 4 m. The width is made of 15 individual glued laminated timber elements, a so-called composite component according to EN 14080. It contains a total volume of 82m³ of glued laminated timber and stores about 70 tons of CO2. In order to be able to monitor the wood moisture, a network of sensors was woven across the entire timber structure, the data of which can be read out online at any time via a monitoring system. The Hasslacher group specializes in special glued laminated timber components. Elements up to 52 m long and weighing up to 60 tons have already been produced. The Hasslacher group is an innovation leader in the field of intelligent and integrated system solutions for modern timber construction.

The Norwegian Forestry Agency is putting forward a series of proposals for biomass from the forest to meet the EU’s new renewable requirements. Source: Timberbiz “Our proposals can contribute to Sweden continuing to be classified as an A country in a cost-effective manner. It will require an increased effort from all actors, but we judge the change to be marginal, especially if we compare it to the gains from meeting the requirements,” said Elisabet Andersson, ecologist at the Swedish Forest Agency. The renewables directive of the European Parliament and the Council from 2018 has been tightened. Among other things, criteria have been introduced that limit the extraction of forest biomass from virgin forest and old forest. The directive aims to promote the use of energy from renewable energy sources, including biomass from, for example, branches and tops (grot) and damaged wood in connection with felling in the forest. The directive does not prohibit felling or the extraction of roots but specifies conditions for the raw material that is extracted to be classified as sustainable. The Norwegian Forestry Agency has been tasked by the government to develop a basis for how Sweden can meet the renewables directive’s sustainability criteria and continue to be classified as an A country. In a report submitted to the government, the Norwegian Forestry Agency makes several proposals for adjustments to ensure that biomass taken from the forest is deemed sustainable for the purposes of the directive, and that it can be tracked and controlled throughout the chain: The forest owner must, through an extended declaration obligation in the permit application or felling notification to the Forestry Agency, indicate whether the measure is to be carried out in virgin forest or old forest. The information provided to the Swedish Forestry Agency enables the authority to supervise and check that the declared information is correct and that the rules are followed. This is to ensure Sweden’s compliance with the Renewable Energy Directive. Information from the declaration must be made available so that those concerned have access to reliable information of importance to their business. In this way, the buyers at all levels (ultimately the energy producer) can gain access to the information required to be able to check the sustainability criteria. “If the proposals are implemented, it underlines the importance of forest owners having a good knowledge of their forest and what natural values may be present. Here, both skill enhancement and guidance will generally be needed,” Ms Andersson said. In addition to the country’s forest owners, there are estimated to be around 300 actors in Sweden who may be affected by the changes. According to the government mandate, the Norwegian Forestry Agency has also, in collaboration with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, proposed a national definition for old forest in the Forest Protection Act. Proposals for criteria for old forest and primeval forest have also been drawn up. The directive’s sustainability criteria also cover areas that have been found to have high biological diversity. However, it has not been part of the government’s mission to develop criteria for these. Here it is proposed that the Norwegian Forestry Agency and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency receive a new government assignment to define what is considered a forest with high biological diversity.

JCB’s engine business has marked its 20th birthday with a celebration to thank employees for their vital role in its continuing success. Source: Timberbiz Since 2004, JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, UK has gone from producing three engines a day to making almost 300. It has become a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of diesel engines and is now leading the way with the pioneering development of hydrogen engines. The business initially employed 20 people but has expanded its workforce to more than 400. To mark the anniversary, employees were presented with gifts and letters thanking them for their service. In addition, 10 employees with a combined 200 years’ service, planted an oak tree in the grounds of the plant to mark the occasion. “I’m proud to have worked at JCB Power Systems since day one. Today marks 20 years of innovation, growth and dedication involving a talented team, delivering manufacturing excellence at JCB,” Robert Taylor JCB Power Systems General Manager said. JCB Power Systems’ engines have been instrumental in helping set world records – firstly when the JCB Dieselmax streamliner, powered by two JCB engines, became the fastest diesel-powered car in the world in 2006 when it reached a speed of 350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA – a record that still stands. In 2019, JCB’s Fastrac tractor stormed into the record books as the world’s fastest tractor with a speed of 135.191 mph thanks to JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder Dieselmax engine. In 2010, JCB expanded production of engines to JCB India, with a dedicated facility in Ballabgarh, Delhi, where 200 engines are produced every single day. In the UK, a team of more than 150 engineers is currently engaged in developing hi-tech hydrogen combustion engines for use in JCB machinery as part of a £100 million investment. More than 120 engines have come off the production line so far and many machines powered by these super-efficient engines are currently undergoing evaluation.  

Logging has been stopped by the NSW Forestry Corporation in a Clarence Valley state forest after eggs found in an endangered Coastal Emu nest hatched last week, prompting calls for a wider exclusion zone to protect the species. Source: Australian Rural & Regional News Last week the Clarence Valley Independent reported Forestry Corporation of NSW Lead Forestry Officer Kurt Holzhauser discovered nine Coastal Emu eggs in a nest during a pre-logging inspection and habitat search for threatened and endangered species in a protected area. Following the amazing discovery, to protect the nest a 100-metre buffer zone was enforced, and the Forestry Corporation of NSW worked with the Saving Our Species program team to ensure the eggs had the best chance of survival. Last Tuesday, the Forestry Corporation of NSW voluntarily ceased logging in the area as the father and the two newly hatched chicks were seen wandering in the forest. A Forestry Corporation of NSW spokesperson confirmed 10 endangered Coastal Emu eggs had been found at the site. “Once the coastal emu nest was discovered, Forestry Corporation of NSW engaged with the Saving our Species SoS program within the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, as the experts in this space,” the spokesperson said. “When the SoS program team arrived on site they found ten eggs in this nest.” The Forestry Corporation of NSW spokesperson said the SoS team collected seven of the eggs and they were transferred to an incubator. “Three eggs were left in the nest, and the male emu returned within five minutes of the other eggs being collected,” the spokesperson said. “Two eggs hatched, and the male left the nest with chicks once they were mobile. “One egg was unviable, which is not uncommon, and has been collected for testing.” The spokesperson said SoS program team members have seen the male emu and the chicks in the state forest. “We are working closely with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water to monitor the status of the emus,” the spokesperson said. Five eggs from the nest that remain in incubation are being monitored by SoS project team members. News of the discovery prompted NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson to call for a planned native forest logging in areas of Coastal Emu habitat to be stopped. Ms Higginson said the 100-metre exclusion zone established around the nest was not enough and a 1000 metre exclusion zone would provide a genuine buffer. She said two other Coastal Emu nests were found on private property close to the state forest, which the CV Independent has chosen not to name. The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water state, as there are less than 50 Coastal Emus known to exist, in their only habitat between Evans Head and Red Rock, they are of significant conservation value as a species. Many plants are dependent on the emu for germination and distribution of their seeds over distances of up to 50km. No other species that lives in the incredibly biodiverse environment they inhabit in the Clarence Valley can fulfil that role. Recent decades have seen a dramatic decline in Coastal Emu numbers with some birds killed in vehicle strikes as development encroaches further into their habitat. Much of the impact occurs at the nesting stage of the emu’s life with ground-nesting exposing the adults, eggs, and chicks to a range of threats from predators, fire, machinery, and other human disturbance. With two known Coastal Emu chicks and potentially several more to hatch, Clarence Valley residents are asked to slow down on roads around known Emu habitat areas and remain vigilant for any wandering chicks or adults near roads. “It is increasingly evident that an increase in home building activity, expected towards the end of this year and into early next year, will be driven by those markets outside of Sydney and Melbourne,” he said.  

New home sales nationally fell by 1.3% in the month of August which leaves sales in the three months to August 2024 higher by 4.6% compared with the previous year. Source: Timberbiz The HIA New Home Sales report is a monthly survey of the largest volume home builders in the five largest states and is a leading indicator of future detached home construction. “Increasing activity in other states, particularly in Queensland, are counteracting weak new home sales in the two largest markets of NSW and Victoria,” HIA Economist Maurice Tapang said. “New home sales in Queensland increased by a further 3.8% in the month of August, after recording a strong 15.6% increase in July. “This leaves new home sales in Queensland over the three months to August 2024 higher by 53.5% compared to the same period in the previous year,” he said. Strong population growth, particularly from those moving from other states into Queensland, were supporting demand for new homes. However, sales of new homes in South Australia and Western Australia fell in August from strong levels. “It is possible that investor activity in Western Australia is slowing down as it moves through a cycle of strong house price growth and low vacancy rates,” Mr Tapang said. “In Victoria, new home sales have been very bumpy in recent months. The draw-forward of sales in April continues to affect sales in the months that followed. “New home sales in NSW remains weak as the cost of delivering a new ‘house and land’ package in Greater Sydney remains elevated by regulatory changes and land prices.” Mr Tapang said it had been more than 10 months since the last rate increase. The continued undersupply of homes and robust labour market conditions were assisting a return of consumers to the new home market. New home sales in the three-month period to August 2024 increased in Queensland by 53.5% compared to the same time in the previous year, followed by South Australia (+25.0%), New South Wales (+12.0%). Western Australia recorded a 14.2% decline over the same period, followed by Victoria (-11.3%).

Hundreds of industry workers and their families, whose livelihoods and businesses are supported by Queensland’s sustainable forest and timber industry, welcomed the support of local leaders at the Queensland Timber Fest in Gympie last weekend. Source: Timberbiz Timber Queensland’s CEO Mick Stephens said the family fun day at the Gympie Woodworks Museum was a good reminder for Governments that the industry is relied upon by thousands of people and their families. “Our industry supports over 25,000 jobs and injects $4 billion into the state economy every year, providing essential materials for the building and construction industry,” said Mr Stephens. “Everyone at the event welcomed the support of local leaders Tony Perrett, Member for Gympie and Glen Hartwig, Gympie Regional Council Mayor, who made it clear they recognise the value of the industry in growing regional jobs, providing materials to meet housing demand and delivering environmentally sound land management,” he said. “Going forward, a key issue facing the industry is a lack of policy certainty over access to public and private native forests for sustainable hardwood production, as well as minimal incentives and measures to promote plantation and farm forestry expansion to increase timber supply. “With the right policy settings there is significant potential for the industry to grow and prosper and deliver positive economic, social and environmental benefits for the state.” Tony Perrett, Member for Gympie and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry said. “The attendance of so many workers and their families is proof why the industry needs certainty to secure timber for production and guarantee a strong future for this valuable renewable and sustainable resource. “I’m committed to providing that security for our valued timber industry.” Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig said he thinks there is a good opportunity to manage our state forests to harvest the appropriate timber but also maintain the environmental significance of the areas for generations to come. “That’s the vision I have for Gympie which will give sustainability, it’ll give long-term jobs and it’ll give certainty to those people that have invested in the industry, but most importantly it pulls carbon out of the atmosphere and puts it into homes,” said Mayor Hartwig. The Queensland Timber Fest was an opportunity to celebrate the history and collective value of the forest industry across the softwood plantation, native hardwood and native cypress sectors. More than 250 people attended, and Timber Queensland acknowledges the support of the many industry exhibitors and community partners on the day.

Oji Fibre Solutions (OjiFS) announced that it will close its paper recycling mill in Penrose, Auckland with around 75 staff members to lose their jobs. The company said it had no choice after suffering continuing financial losses. Source: Timberbiz It is expected that the mill will close in December this year. “This is a sad day for OjiFS and particularly our Penrose Mill employees. While this closure will impact directly on our 75 people at the mill, we will continue serving our customers with as little disruption as possible,” Chief Executive Officer Dr Jon Ryder said. “Closing Penrose Mill will not change our Fullcircle operations. We will continue to collect wastepaper and continue to recycle around 90,000 tonnes of cardboard per year at our Kinleith Mill, near Tokoroa. OjiFS will remain New Zealand’s largest paper recycler. The company said that other wastepaper would be sent to an Oji Group mill in Malaysia, who will also supply OjiFS packaging operations across Australasia with a replacement for the recycled medium currently manufactured at Penrose Mill. “I would like to emphasise that this decision to close Penrose Mill, is in no way a reflection of the calibre, dedication and skill of each and every one of our 75 staff there,” Dr Ryder said. “Penrose Mill has suffered a three-year pattern of losses, with no prospect of the situation improving. “As I’ve said before, these losses are caused by several issues, including but not limited to, dramatically rising energy costs, and freight and labour costs. We have looked at technology and other changes to save input costs. We have also considered options presented by our staff and their unions. “At the end of the day, however, there is nothing we could find that would make a difference. “We are doing all we can to support our people through this period, including matching them with positions across other parts of OjiFS, and working with other businesses to offer them the opportunity to take on high-calibre, experienced staff.”

Australian Forest and Wood Innovations has announced the establishment of a Research Advisory Committee. The committee will provide expert advice to the AFWI board on forest and wood product research and innovation, ensuring that research activities are aligned with industry needs, and maximising benefits for the broader forestry and wood products sectors. Source: Timberbiz “Bringing together experts from across industry and research strengthens AFWI’s ability to ensure our work reflects real-world needs,” AFWI Chair Mr Bob Gordon said. “The committee’s insights will be invaluable as we steer our research and innovation to better serve the forestry and wood product sectors. “As we approach the announcement of the first round of funding under our National Open Call for Research, we are excited to mark the beginning of AFWI-funded projects. “These initiatives will play a crucial role in advancing innovation and sustainability within the forestry and wood products sectors.” Mr Gordon also acknowledged the role of the committee in assessing and recommending these projects. “The Research Advisory Committee has been integral to the selection process, ensuring that the projects we fund are supported by industry, deliver meaningful outcomes, and contribute to the broader goals of the sector,” he said. Chaired by Professor Rodney Keenan, the committee includes leaders from academia, industry, and government. The members of the AFWI Research Advisory Committee are: Professor Rodney Keenan (Chair), Honorary Professorial Fellow and former Chair of Forest and Ecosystem Sciences, The University of Melbourne Mr Gavin Matthew, Chief Executive Officer, Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) Ms Belinda Lengenberg, General Manager Strategic Resources, Timberlink Mr Simon Dorries, CEO, Responsible Wood Dr Shaun Suitor, Strategy Manager, Sustainable Timber Tasmania, Dr Danielle Wiseman, Research Scientist, Plantation Industry Pest Management Group Dr Craig Cowled, Lecturer Civil Engineering, Queensland University of Technology Dr Henri Baillères, General Manager Forests to Timber Products, Scion Dr Steve Read, Former Chief Coordinating Scientist, ABARES (Retired) Dr Jodi Mason, Head of Forest Research, Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) Mr Peter Harding, Assistant Director, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Dr Melanie Zeppel, Manager, Natural Capital and Carbon Analytics, New Forests Dr Chris Lafferty, Research and Development Manager, Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) For more information about the committee, visit: https://www.afwi.au/    

FWPA’s Head of Research and Development, Dr Chris Lafferty has decided to retire at the end of June 2025, after 23 years with the organisation. Source: Timberbiz Since joining the then Forest and Wood Products Research & Development Corporation in 2002, Chris has been an invaluable team member, dedicating his significant skills and experience to advancing research and development to benefit members and key stakeholders across the entire forest and wood products value chain. This is an appropriate time for both parties to make this transition. It will provide a succession plan for FWPA that will support the organisation’s future while allowing Dr Lafferty to pursue new interests and challenges. Recruitment for his replacement will begin in the coming weeks, aimed at securing a suitable candidate by the end of 2024. The goal is to facilitate a significant overlap period between Dr Lafferty and his successor, providing ample opportunity for comprehensive onboarding, introductions to key relationships, and proactive knowledge sharing to ensure a seamless transition for the broader team. CEO, Andrew Leighton thanked Dr Lafferty for his substantial contribution to the organisation and the industry. “For more than two decades, Chris has served FWPA and our members, and we are grateful for his willingness to mentor and guide his successor, to set us up for success moving forward,” he said.

Bombala based timber milling company Dongwha Australia has welcomed a NSW Government Forestry Industry Action Plan designed to outline the path the State will take to ensure a sustainable timber industry that aligns with the Government’s key environmental priorities. Source: Karen Forman, Monaro Post Dongwha Australian Team Leader Neville McInnes said although the company had not yet been contacted by the new advisory panel, it was pleased the government had committed to the industry and had three key areas it wished to discuss. They are a commitment to keeping roads open to guarantee the transport of timber between plantations and the mill; a commitment to the continued supply of softwood and a commitment to not losing what supply was already available. “We welcome the plan, absolutely,” Mr McInnes said. “We are moving along reasonably well at the moment, but we do need to look at the future and secure supply and infrastructure so that things don’t go down. We have 130 direct employees and are always looking for more workers. For everyone direct job, three come off it, that’s 450 jobs feeding off the mill, without secondary jobs, so we estimate 750 jobs come out of the Dongwha site. You take that out of Bombala and it’s not a positive picture.” Korean-owned Dongwha Australia took ownership of a small mill with 20 employees on the current Bombala site in 2011 and built a new saw milling plant which was officially opened for business in 2013. The company produces a range of softwood timber products for the Australian market. It is not involved in export. “We are lucky, better than around Tumut and Tumbarumba which lost 50,000 hectares of timber in the fires,” Mr McInnes said. “We lost 6000 hectares. To date that hasn’t affected us, but obviously after 2032 when our current agreement for guaranteed supply expires, that could change what volumes can be delivered from one supplier. “So we will be showing our interest in talking about the infrastructure issues, ways of keeping our plantations in their current format, ensuring future supply, and not losing what supply we already have got.” The Independent Forestry Panel will be chaired by Peter Duncan AM who has more than 40 years’ experience in primary industries, infrastructure and regional NSW. Professor Mary O’Kane AC and Mick Veitch will also sit on the Panel. The Panel will be tasked with consulting with a broad range of stakeholders and report to Government on the best options to achieve the balance between sustainable supplies of timber and environmental commitments. Stakeholders include representatives from the timber industry, forest growers, environment groups, unions, Aboriginal communities, local government, business, related industries, tourism, scientific experts and the Commonwealth Government. Mr McInnes said Dongwha was keen to maintain its current plantation base in Bombala, which was made up of Forest Corp NSW supplies (250,000 cubic metres per year) and private plantations within a 150km radius. “The mill capacity is 300,000 cubic metres,” he said. “We have a few challenges to address, though. This winter was a classic with rain, we had issues getting deliveries of getting access where roads were shut, and supply to the mill was stopped. The mill doesn’t stop, it keeps consuming logs, we operate 242 days a year, so while keep stock on hand, delivery is key to keeping the mill functioning. That is a roads funding issue, yes. “We are also keen to maintain our current planation base in Bombala. Currently we are losing one plantation area, as one of the privates is harvesting and selling the land, losing 8000 hectares. “The land is open to whoever wants to buy it.  Obviously, we would like to see a plantation owner put it back under plantation again for the viability of the mill. If we want to get plantation timber back in the ground, it’s 25-35 years for a rotation of pine from planting to clear fell. It is a long-term crop.” Third on the Dongwha agenda will be renegotiation with corporatised government agency Forest Corp NSW to renew its agreement for supply of wood. “The contract is up for renewal in 2032, but obviously we like to put things in place,” he said. “The agreement guarantees wood supply, volumes per annum for the next 10, 15, 20 years. “Things are still positive, there is a lot of good news, we will ride through this. The best part is that we have the resource here, just some hurdles to overcome to sure up the wood supply.”  

A groundbreaking research project is set to make its global debut at London Design Festival from 18 to 21 September at the OXO Tower Courtyard and Platform. Source: Timberbiz CascadeUp is the first building-scale demonstration of a glulam and cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure which has been created entirely out of waste timber from demolition. The 3.5-metre high, 2.5-metre wide and 2-metre-deep modular structure was designed by University College London’s Circular Economy Lab and UK CLT to provide a stage to share planet-saving ideas. “We can’t solve the climate crisis without transforming our built environment,” said Dr Colin Rose, an architect, Senior Research Fellow at UCL and Founding Partner of UK CLT, who has led on the project. “CascadeUp fully embraces circularity – taking wood which would be chipped and downcycled or sent to the incinerator and instead remanufacturing it to make a sustainable alternative to high-carbon structural products such as concrete, steel and brick. “Taken at scale, this is an approach that can boost local economies and drive new employment in reclamation and manufacturing sectors close to urban areas.” The CascadeUp pilot is the result of years of research to rethink how we can transform our built environment, and rapidly shift to a circular economy. With the built environment responsible for 30-42% of carbon emissions, over 60% of the UK’s waste, and ~50% of all extracted materials, this could have a major impact. Fully modular and reusable, and designed with disassembly in mind, the structure can be easily upgraded and repurposed, ensuring that no materials are discarded. The project is the first of its kind to test this approach to the manufacture of wood-based panels and beams from reused, solid timber and assemble it at building-scale, which can provide a way to extend wood’s ability to store carbon over the long-term Visitors to the pilot will have the opportunity to view the structure and learn more about its design and construction, material properties and scalability, and environmental benefits. CascadeUp forms one exciting component of a South Bank design district which features both Material Matters and the Wood Awards.

Employment in the wood industry is vital not only for economic prosperity and social stability but also for advancing environmental sustainability and innovation. The sector’s ability to provide jobs across various skill levels and its role in sustainable resource management make it a cornerstone of the bioeconomy. Source: Timberbiz More than 50 participants travelled to Brussels to attend a conference and learn more about innovation, inclusion, mobility for apprentices and attracting young people to the wood industry. The attendants also had the opportunity to discover the results of the project’s final study, as well as the partners’ policy recommendations. Innovation, inclusiveness, sound working conditions and mobility are interlinked factors that contribute to reshaping the woodworking industry. Innovation is driving technological and sustainable advancements, inclusiveness is creating a more diverse and equitable workforce, while mobility is providing career flexibility and growth opportunities. By focusing on these areas, the woodworking industry is not only staying competitive and innovative but also becoming a more dynamic and attractive field for current and future generations. During the course of the RESILIENTWOOD project, social partners and training providers had the opportunity to meet at various occasions, to organise thematic workshops, to carry out company visits and to engage in numerous exchanges with experts. For this final event, they wanted to look back at the various themes addressed during the project through the testimonies of: Anna Barbieri (European Commission Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion), who presented the EU Alliance for Apprenticeships as well as the mobility possibilities for apprentices offered by the Erasmus+ programme, as apprenticeships can bring a response to labour and skills shortages. Melanie Kaindl & Gennaro Azzollini (Microtec), who gave a sneak peek at sawmill of the future. A good example of how companies that are often perceived as old fashioned are actually (very) modern and resolutely future oriented. Simona Corrado (Filca-Cisl), who explained how to build a more inclusive workplace and gave examples of policies already in place in Europe and Italy. Maarten Leyts (Trendwolves), who looked at what influences the young generation and the role the social media can play in delivering the messages of the wood industries to the future workers generations. The woodworking industry is continuously embracing new technologies such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, robotics, AI, etc. enhancing precision, efficiency, and the ability to create complex designs while innovation is driving the development of eco-friendly products and processes. The adoption of digital tools for design is revolutionising how wood products are conceptualised and manufactured. Jean-Denis Lanvin (FCBA) presented the final study of the project and provided an overview of the latest developments in the woodworking industries in Europe. The study is a useful tool to stimulate social partners’ discussions on the challenges of adapting the industry after the Covid-19 pandemic. It contains a series of chapters focussing on the adaptation and prospects in times of crisis, the women representation in the industry, the expected technological changes and adaptation needs as well as the role of VET and student mobility in Belgium, Italy, Sweden, France and Croatia. A separate chapter also deals with those topics for the European sawmill sector at large. A series of recommendations and guidelines designed to anticipate changes, increase attractiveness, build skills and inclusiveness in the European woodworking industries forms the final element of this two-year project. The woodworking industry is increasingly recognising the importance of a diverse workforce. While there is room to further increase the share of underrepresented groups among the woodworking industries workforce, efforts to include more women and individuals from various backgrounds are helping to address labour shortages and bring new perspectives to the industry. Inclusiveness in the industry is supported by initiatives to provide permanent training and education, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities in woodworking, from entry-level positions to leadership roles. During the concluding panel discussion, the partners also stressed the importance of life-long learning, social dialogue and social partners’ involvement, as well as the need to attract and retain a skilled workforce. Above all, the partners recognise that if the woodworking industries are to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient economy, a reliable and affordable sustainable raw material availability is a sine qua non. The study and the recommendations can be downloaded from the project website: www.cei-bois.org/resilientwood