Australian timber industry news

Combilift secured awards in two categories at the recent UK Materials Handling Association Awards in Birmingham on 14 September. Up against some of the biggest names in material handling, they walked away with the coveted ‘Ergonomic Innovation of the Year’ and the ‘Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year’. Source: Timberbiz The Combi-CB70E was celebrated for its groundbreaking ergonomic design. The 7-ton electric-powered, multidirectional counterbalance forklift is the shortest 7-ton capacity truck on the market, making it highly efficient with long loads in tight spaces. The truck’s surprisingly spacious cab, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass, provides operators with excellent visibility and enhanced safety. One of its standout features is the Auto Swivel Seat, which automatically swivels 15 degrees to the left or right, depending on the direction of travel. This feature significantly reduces driver strain, particularly when reversing. The CB70E also incorporates a gas strut suspension system, typically found in larger industrial machinery. This advanced suspension and large super-elastic tyres ensure a smooth ride, even across rough or uneven terrain or during extended shifts. Combilift’s independent electric traction system was a previous Red Dot award winner and provides 100% traction control for all front and rear drive wheels. This system eliminates the need for a differential lock on slippery surfaces, reduces load swing, and enhances safety and precision when transporting long, heavy loads particularly when navigating sideways, regardless of ground conditions. Combilift’s second award, the ‘Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year’, went to the Combi LC Blade, a cutting-edge machine designed specifically to address the growing challenges of transporting offshore wind turbine blades from the manufacturing plant to storage or transportation facilities. These blades, which can reach up to 115 metres in length and weigh up to 70 tonnes, have long posed logistical challenges due to their size, fragility and complexity. Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team, known for developing pioneering solutions like the Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry worked hand in hand with Siemens Gamesa, a leading supplier of offshore wind turbines, the LC Blade ensures unparalleled stability and safety during transport. Now implemented in manufacturing sites across the world, Combilift has transformed the logistics of handling wind turbine blades and set a new industry standard. “We are more than delighted to have won not just one, but two prestigious accolades at this year’s Archies 2024, making this our 12th Archies to date. Competing against such high-calibre competitors highlights what a fantastic team we have, which are willing to push the boundaries of the material handling industry,” Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar said.  

In a recently published paper, Investing in a Nature Positive Future, New Forests, a global investment manager of nature-based real assets and natural capital strategies, has seen increasing numbers of investors making commitments to align their investment portfolios with both the net zero aspiration of the Paris Agreement and the concept of ‘nature positive’ flowing from the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Agreement. Source: Timberbiz To establish effective strategies and make measurable progress against these goals, New Forests says investors will need experienced landscape and forestry asset managers to help manage risks and unlock new sources of value to achieve nature positive outcomes. The concept of nature positive refers to the conservation, restoration and enhancement of nature, reversing its decline by 2030 and achieving full and ongoing recovery of nature by 2050. New Forests, founded in 2005, has almost two decades of experience in optimising risk and returns from nature-based solutions and land-based investments. Investing in a Nature Positive Future offers a practical framework for investors, outlining the policy environment, mechanisms to incentivise conservation and regulate impacts on nature as well as the opportunities arising for investors in private real assets, particularly forestry, agriculture and conservation land management. Taking on this challenge will require new technologies to be able to forecast landscape conditions into the future. Nature-based real assets are increasingly converging into a natural capital asset class offering potential solutions to climate change, nature decline and the provision of critical renewable resources whilst accelerating investment opportunities in real assets. Today, the global investible universe for forestry is US$300 billion. The new natural capital asset class with exposure to agriculture and timber markets, carbon pricing, biodiversity markets and options for renewable energy development is drawing substantial investor interest. New Forests expects investment into natural capital could rise to US$1 trillion or more over the next two decades. “To make this rise in investment a reality, it is critical that the economic and policy signals are fit for purpose. We need standardised accounting for carbon in landscapes, metrics for biodiversity, market-based approaches to climate and nature conservation solutions,” said David Brand, Founder and Chair of New Forests, who has 40 years’ experience in land investment, forest management, science, and public policy. The Paper emphasises the imperative to create value for nature, and price signals that make it more economically attractive to conserve and restore nature, than to destroy it. “The positive news is that global recognition of the economic and environmental benefits of carbon projects and biodiversity projects and demand for solutions is growing,” said Mark Rogers, Chief Executive Officer, New Forests. “Land-based investments are increasingly recognised as foundational to climate change mitigation and adaptation solutions, restoration and conservation of nature and the provision of critical renewal resources into a sustainable bioeconomy. We are seeing new sources of option value enabling investors to derive enhanced risk adjusted returns from land-based investments as well as portfolio level decarbonisation and nature positive outcomes. “Where investment previously would be based on conventional returns from the sale of timber or agriculture produce, now there is exposure to carbon markets and biodiversity markets or payments, tradeable water rights, wind and solar farm leases.” There is growing pressure on businesses to disclose their sustainability-related performance as well as risks and opportunities. This in turn requires the creation of standardised approaches to measuring, monitoring, accounting and reporting on biodiversity metrics and progress towards nature positive outcomes. The facilitation of a standardised nature disclosure framework from the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) will enable both businesses and investors to demonstrate transparency across four areas – governance, strategy, risk and impact management and metrics. The Paper also discusses major advances in technologies and analytical approaches needed to collect data on these attributes to optimise land use. For example, geospatial modelling, which can layer data on soils, topography, climate and weather patterns to optimise land use and enhance agricultural and forestry productivity. “There are multiple competencies necessary to understand the financial characteristics of this future-looking natural capital asset class for investors, but this brings major opportunities. Blending together a set of dynamic, potentially uncorrelated revenue streams encourages a review of where this new natural capital asset class fits in an investment portfolio, the range of different investment structures and approaches that can be used, and whether allocations can or should be increased,” Mr Brand said. “Ultimately specialist managers will be needed to package up these components and bring these investment opportunities to the market. We are in a race to stabilise and restore as much of our biodiversity as possible before it is lost.” You can download the paper here.

Midway Limited has been appointed by Rio Tinto to develop Pongamia seed farms to test its viability as a sustainable renewable diesel feedstock. Source: Timberbiz Midway will design, execute and manage approximately 3,000 ha of Pongamia seed farms and associated biodiversity plantings from a new office in North Queensland. The team will employ from local communities and businesses, contributing to the region’s economic growth. Midway has also been contracted to provide land acquisition, due diligence advice, farm and irrigation development, operations management, project management, and carbon related consulting services. Pongamia, Millettia pinnata, is a medium sized, fast-growing tree or shrub, that produces seed with a high oil content.  Renewable diesel is a drop-in alternative to fossil diesel fuel. It is made from fats and oils and emits significantly less carbon emissions than conventional diesel, over the lifecycle. “We are delighted to have been appointed to partner with Rio Tinto to help them achieve their biofuel ambitions,” Tony McKenna said. “This is a significant achievement for the carbon team at Midway and we are very excited to be partnering with Rio Tinto on this innovative pilot project. “The collaboration reinforces our reputation as trusted advisors with the capability and experience to deliver large scale carbon abatement projects for emitters who are committed to reducing their net emissions.” Rio Tinto Chief Decarbonisation Officer Jonathon McCarthy said that while they have successfully integrated renewable diesel in its United States operations, Australia currently lacks a sufficient biofuel feedstock industry to meet domestic demand. The pilot represents an important step in helping to bridge that gap and advance our decarbonisation goals. “Developing a sustainable biofuels industry in Australia could enhance the region’s fuel security, create local economic opportunities, and contribute to emissions reductions targets. We are excited about the potential of the Pongamia pilot and look forward to partnering with Midway Limited and north Queensland communities,” he said. Biofuels are playing an increasing role in Rio’s decarbonisation strategy as they provide an opportunity to reduce fossil diesel use, and the emissions generated, while electrification technology develops. Rio Tinto has converted two US mining operations to renewable diesel over the past year and has been working to better understand the biofuels industry, market conditions and opportunities in Australia.

A week after 230 workers heard the news of job losses due to the closure of the WPI sawmill and pulp mill in the Ruapehu District, another 75 pulp workers at the Oji pulp mill in Penrose, New Zealand are awaiting the announcement of their fate today. Source: Timberbiz Oji Fibre Solutions announced to its Penrose staff last month that it was considering closure and entered into a 4-week consultation period with the workforce and their unions, FIRST and E tū, followed by a 2-week decision period. “On behalf of our members, the unions first asked a series of questions of the company regarding its proposal to close, then made a comprehensive submission that concluded with the call for the mill to remain open,” said Justin Wallace, FIRST Union organiser for the Oji Penrose Mill. “This mill is different from every other pulp mill in the country. Its feedstock is not wood, but recycled cardboard and paper. “The mill is an integral component of New Zealand’s recycling system. By the company’s own admission, if the mill closes, New Zealand paper and card recycling will be sent offshore to Malaysia for processing. “We’ve discovered that 80% of Malaysia’s electricity is produced by coal fired power stations and the additional carbon footprint of shipping recycling to Malaysia and importing paper back adds significantly to the carbon footprint of recycled paper production, making a mockery of any environmental credentials. “In addition, United Nations and other reports are highly critical of near or actual modern slavery practices that workers face in the Malaysian timber and pulp industries.” While the price of electricity was the key reason for the closure of the mill, that price has now dropped. The union submission notes that and offers alternatives to the company being held to ransom by the exorbitant wholesale spot prices of electricity as it has in the past. “We’re calling on Oji Fibre Solutions to reverse its proposal, take up some of the union-generated proposals and keep the Penrose Mill operating as a key component in New Zealand’s recycling system,” said Mr Wallace. Mr Wallace said it was not too late for the Government and energy producers to intervene cooperatively in the market to reduce wholesale electricity costs and save mills like Oji’s Penrose plant from closure. “Aucklanders will not be happy to lose a piece of vital infrastructure and see their recycling being shipped to Malaysia and back instead of dealing with the core issue of high energy costs in New Zealand,” said Mr Wallace.

The Gottstein Trust’s annual round of capacity building grants is open for applications until midnight Wednesday 16 October 2024. Source: Timberbiz The purpose of the grants is firmly aimed at further advancing the forest and forest products industry across Australia. The range of grants are awarded to individuals who seek to grow their ability to contribute in positive ways. “We urge all people and culture/human resource teams, business owners, company executives and operations managers everywhere to make sure their personnel are aware of these wonderful opportunities and encourage them to apply,” said Gottstein Trust chair, Suzette Weeding. Three types of grant opportunities are available. They offer wide scope for industry personnel right along the value chain and researchers and students are also eligible to apply. “Without fail, such impressive people come out of the woodwork when we invite applications annually. A Trustee panel reviews every application thoroughly before making decisions about which applications will be awarded a grant,” Ms Weeding said. “This is always a competitive round, and we feel genuine excitement at the prospect of seeing the applications.” Three award grant categories are open for applicants. Skills Development Grants are for people who work at any level in the sector. Types of eligible activities include, but are not limited to, conference fees, field trip attendance, a short course, travel to learn about a certain skill or machine operation. The Gottstein Scholarships are for people pursuing a vocational qualification at TAFE level, or in university at either under-graduate or post-graduate level. Scholarship funds may be used for course related or general living expenses at the discretion of the scholarship recipient. Gottstein Fellowships – are the premier grant to be awarded. A fellowship recipient receives funds to pursue a research project they’ve identified and developed for consideration. Most entail international or domestic travel, and outcomes are made available for industry via a report written by the Fellow. There’s no doubt at all that the impact of a Gottstein Fellowship in particular, helps to boost careers. In some cases, they can even be life changing. “It’s evident that the positive impact is truly long lasting,” Ms Weeding said. The Gottstein Trust Fund has boosted the careers of a great number of people and so many moved on to senior leadership positions. “It’s time now for today’s future leaders to step forward with their ideas and submit an application to be considered for any of these three grants,” said Ms Weeding. A great opportunity awaits – as evidenced from the personal testimonials given by people. Online application forms can be accepted until midnight Canberra (AEST) time Wednesday 16 October 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a Trustee panel in November with offers to successful candidates made not later than early December. Those who wish to discuss a project idea in advance of preparing an application can call Helen Murray on 0419-991-424. All other enquiries can be directed to team@gottsteintrust.org Or for more information visit: https://gottsteintrust.org/  

A new review has found inconsistencies in the local government planning framework for tree farms, which may be hindering growth in the sector. Source: Timberbiz Commissioned by the South West Timber Hub in Western Australia, the Review of Local Government Planning Frameworks for Tree Farms was officially released on Wednesday, 18 September. It examined the planning framework of 25 local governments and provided a list of recommendations to help achieve clarity and consistency for local governments in considering tree farm proposals. South West Timber Hub Project Manager Wendy Perdon said the inconsistencies highlighted by the review undermined clear and consistent decision making to gain approval for new tree farms. “This is ultimately to the detriment of the State in fulfilling its intent to support and grow the timber sector to meet demand, as well as societies increasing expectation and obligation to reduce emissions and move towards renewables across the economy,” Ms Perdon said. “Historically there have been issues in this area and planning guidelines can vary greatly between local governments, even when they are located next to each other. The South West Timber Hub commissioned this review to examine these discrepancies and provide some clear recommendations going forward.” WA’s plantation sector, which consists of hardwood and softwood varieties, contributes more than 1.18 billion dollars of economic activity. Demand for timber products is anticipated to quadruple by 2050 and at least 50,000ha of additional softwood plantation is needed to help meet the demand. Plantation timber is used to make the timber frames for homes, engineered wood products used to build new multi-storey residential and commercial buildings, wood-based panels for kitchens, pallets, and wood fibre used to manufacture paper, packaging and bioproducts, replacing single use plastics. In addition, residues go into making potting mix, mulches, composts and landscaped products for gardens.

In the face of rising costs across industries, Wesbeam as Australia’s only LVL manufacturer is stepping up to support Australian businesses with a price freeze. Source: Timberbiz With the prices of energy, logistics, commercial leases, and materials increasing, many companies are passing these costs onto their customers. However, Wesbeam is taking a different approach, offering stability when it’s needed most. Effective immediately, Wesbeam announced a six-month price hold guarantee on all LVL and LVL I-joist products until March 2025. While others are increasing their prices, Wesbeam is committed to maintaining current pricing for the next six months to help customers plan and operate with certainty during these challenging times. “We recognize the pressures our customers are under, and we want to support them by offering price stability and supply security,” said James Malone, CEO of Wesbeam. “As Australia’s only manufacturer of LVL and LVL I-joist products, we are uniquely positioned to control what others cannot. This price hold reflects our commitment to Australian businesses and the residential housing market.” Wesbeam is more than just a manufacturer. With a state-of-the-art production facility in Western Australia, secure and guaranteed timber resources, and nationwide distribution, engineering, and sales centres, Wesbeam ensures consistent, uninterrupted supply across Australia. In addition to this, Wesbeam offers industry-leading technical support to both customers and their builder clients. “Our world-class manufacturing facility is equipped to meet demand, backed by a nationwide network of support. Supply security and price stability are at the core of what we offer, ensuring our customers succeed today and into the future,” Mr Malone said. The decision to hold prices for six months demonstrates the company’s commitment to helping businesses succeed despite the current economic challenges.

Nationals’ Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, has asked the Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulos, to specify the locations of the job losses within the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) in East Gippsland. Source: Timberbiz The question in Parliament comes on the back of the media publishing Departmental documents stating 220 positions will be removed from DEECA, and staff at locations such as Orbost, Swifts Creek, Heyfield and Nowa Nowa were told of the reductions. “I have had family and community members contact my office from these areas, saying they’ve been told earlier this week there will be a reduction in positions,” said Mr Bull. “In addition, I have also been advised some of these jobs will become ‘regional’ rather than local, and in other cases, staff have been offered to reapply for jobs with less pay. “These are communities that have been hit by the timber industry closure and are townships the government said it would support. “Also of concern is that some of these positions are Forest Fire Management workers, whose job it is to protect our community. “We have a government that has slashed the CFA budget and has overseen a fuel reduction burning program that falls well short of keeping us safe – and now they cut our government fire positions. “The benefits of fuel reduction burning are well documented and when you don’t do it, there cannot be any other outcome than a devastating fire. But then cut the CFA Budget and remove jobs from fire protection only worsens the problem,” he said. “What I have asked the Minister is to specify how many jobs are going from East Gippsland, and from which offices.”

For centuries, the soulful rhythms of the taiko drum have carried the ancestral spirit of Japanese culture. Played at traditional ceremonies and rituals, the drums’ majestic tones invoke blessings for bountiful harvests and pay homage to the natural gifts of the land. Source: Timberbiz Yoshihiko Miyamoto’s family has been crafting taiko drums and other Japanese festival equipment since 1861. From the very beginning, the company has been guided by the same philosophy: ‘Value skill and honour tradition (宮本重義作)’, a concept that Mr Miyamoto was determined to uphold when he inherited the company in around 2010. Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten produces about 30 types of drums, that could be expanded to more than a hundred if the different sizes are considered. The drums are crafted using a variety of materials, each chosen with precision to suit the specific drum type. The primary ones are zelkova wood (keyaki – ケヤキ), cedar (sugi – 杉), and bamboo. The company employs two distinct manufacturing methods: one involves hollowing out a single piece of wood, while the other laminates wood into a board shape and joins it together. Mr Miyamoto prefers to create items that aren’t consumed quickly. Instead, the focus is on making good quality products that can be used for a long time, repaired, and then used for even longer. As he contemplated the drums’ sacred role in Japanese culture and their inextricable bond with nature, he felt a growing responsibility to nurture the very forests that in turn, nurtured his family’s craft. Traditionally, taikos were made primarily from dense-grain premium woods such as zelkova and cedar, chosen for their aesthetic value and durability. But over-reliance on a few tree species risked upsetting the delicate forest balance. “In seeking high-quality materials, the drum-making industry hasn’t always considered the long-term environmental impact,” he said. “But the very spirit of the taiko symbolizes the harmonious coexistence between man and nature.” Determined to restore this intrinsic balance, he began exploring possibilities to utilize more sustainable wood sources that would allow both the heritage and natural environments to thrive. When he met Ryosuke Aoki of Tokyo Chainsaws through a mutual friend, it was as if Mother Nature herself had responded to his call. Tokyo Chainsaws is a Forest Stewardship Council certified forestry company based in Hinohara village, west of Tokyo. Discovering a mutual reverence for nature and cultural preservation, the two agreed to a collaboration: the ‘Echo-logical Taiko Project’. With this, Mr Miyamoto would use readily available, FSC-certified stock such as snow wood from Hinohara Tokyo Citizens’ Forest for certain types of drums. The project led to the release of a new line of sustainable taiko drums, making Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten the first company in the world to obtain FSC certification for taiko products. “It’s a revolutionary approach considering the cultural significance of the instrument and the usual preference for straight-grained wood,” said Mr Aoki. “People are often surprised to learn that 70% of Japan is covered in forests.” “Here in Hinohara village, you can see many cedar and cypress trees that were planted post-World War II. They have matured and are ready for use.” Currently, much of Japan’s timber resources remain underutilized, partly due to a lack of awareness among the public. Mr Aoki believes that more can still be done to showcase the bounty of Japan’s forests and boost utilization, beginning with community engagement.

Nokian Tyres has signed a development agreement with a Swedish biomaterial science company Reselo AB to develop their renewable material Reselo Rubber as a potential new raw material in tyres. Source: Timberbiz Reselo Rubber is a completely renewable material made from birch bark sourced from the residue of the global pulp, paper and plywood industry. The aim of the cooperation agreement now signed is to develop the material further to adapt it for commercial tyre production. “According to the initial laboratory tests we have conducted on Reselo Rubber, it has great potential to replace traditional fossil-based materials in tyres. Furthermore, the material is not only renewable, but we believe it may also be used to improve the tyre’s performance features. We are excited to develop it further in cooperation with Reselo and hope to have Reselo Rubber in Nokian Tyres tires in the future,” Heini Siekkinen, Senior Manager, Research & Sustainability from Nokian Tyres said. Reselo was the winner of Nokian Tyres’ FAST RACE, BIG CHANGE sustainable tyre innovation challenge that aimed to find new solutions for more sustainable tyres. After the preliminary testing, the potential of Reselo Rubber as a possible tyre material was established, and now the co-operation continues in close collaboration to further develop the material to match demanding tire properties in an industrial scale. “We are proud and excited to join forces with Nokian Tyres to improve the sustainability of the largest rubber industry segment even further. The partnership with Nokian Tyres marks an important milestone in our ambition to revolutionize the rubber industry with a high performing bio-based rubber,” Henrik Otendal, CEO and one of the founders of Reselo said. One of Nokian Tyres’ most important sustainability goals is to have 50% of the raw materials in its tyres renewable or recycled by 2030, and the company has reached several milestones recently. In June 2024, the company demonstrated the usability of of UPM BioMotion, a groundbreaking new renewable material in tires by presenting the concept tyre Nokian Tyres Green Step Ligna. In August 2024, Nokian Tyres announced that their factory in Nokia, Finland has obtained the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS. With the certification, Nokian Tyres is able to introduce new sustainable, ISCC PLUS certified raw materials in its tyres.  

Tigercat has released a smaller class mulching head suited to niche applications like fire mitigation and remediation. Source: Timberbiz Designed for the Tigercat 470 mulcher, the 4054-20 provides a complete end-to-end Tigercat mulching solution for narrow swath applications and lower horsepower carriers. The 4054-20 head has a smaller diameter drum, a two metre (79 in) mulching swath and a lighter weight, more compact design. Key applications include fire mitigation and remediation, as well as right-of-way and site preparation projects requiring a smaller, more agile machine. The smaller size and lighter weight of the 4054-20 means it can work on carriers with less attachment power, while retaining similar recovery performance to larger heads equipped on larger carriers. Various carbide tools and hardened steel knife tools are available to suit a range of applications. The Tigercat designed bolt-on tool system is available for both the open face rotor and the feed control rotor. Manufactured for robustness, the 4054-20 mulching head offers durability and reliability. Carbide welding on the skis provides extra protection from wear. The robust housing with reinforced side covers adds to the heavy duty build quality and structural integrity. The drive system efficiently transfers power with no belt slip and reduced belt tension maintenance. Large, heavy duty bearings and shafts ensure long life and high uptime. Numerous removable access covers allow easy maintenance of wear items and service points. The wear liner can be serviced in the field and does not require welding or rotor removal.

The Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA) has welcomed the announcement of the first round of commitments from the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF), which will see 13,700 social and affordable homes built, housing more than 25,000 Australians in need. Source: Timberbiz Funded projects will include 4,220 social and 9,522 affordable homes, including 1,267 homes for women and children escaping domestic violence and older women at risk of homelessness. “This announcement demonstrates that the reforms we’ve long advocated are beginning to deliver,” CHIA CEO Wendy Hayhurst said. “It’s heartening to see the Commonwealth taking decisive action to address Australia’s housing crisis and not a moment too soon. And, with the funding tap at last beginning to flow, it’s also re-assuring that the government plans a second round of allocations to take place early in the New Year. “CHIA strongly believes that the HAFF program must be viewed as part of the broader, coordinated and sustained effort required if Australian governments are to make any appreciable impact on the huge backlog of need. “This announcement represents solid progress we wholeheartedly commend. Of course, it doesn’t fix the problem overnight, and no one would suggest it does. When you’re tackling a housing crisis that has been decades in the making, the key is to show long-term commitment and to steadily make inroads. “The enduring significance of today’s program launch will depend on whether it marks the re-start of a national investment push maintained and expanded in future years. Only then will we start to see a measurable reduction in unmet housing need and a meaningful contribution to moderating rents at the lower end of the private market. “Thankfully, with the HAFF beginning to bear fruit, and with both Housing Australia and the Housing Supply Council now firing on all cylinders, we now have the necessary mechanisms and institutions to properly begin the mammoth task of turning our housing system around.” CHIA looks forward to continuing its work with all levels of government, industry and unions to address Australia’s housing challenges and create more opportunities for those in need of stable, affordable housing.  

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi slammed the New Zealand Government for failing to bring a plan to the table to save around 300 jobs in the Ruapehu district, following the decision of Winstone Pulp International to close the Karioi pulp mill and the Tangiwai sawmill. Source: Timberbiz “Our hearts go out to all the workers who have lost their jobs, and we stand in solidarity with them at this terribly difficult time,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff. “The Government had the power to keep the mill alive by creating a plan for power price stability, but they failed to deliver. “This decision will be devastating for the Ruapehu district who were already dealing with high unemployment and a lack of opportunities. This is the last thing they need. “Government has a responsibility to keep rural communities alive by supporting regional economic development and stepping in to show leadership when critical industries are struggling. Writing off whole communities is simply unacceptable. “Local manufacturing plays an important role in our regional economies and that needs to be protected into the future. It is the role of Government to guarantee this by implementing employment, regional development and Just Transition strategies that prioritise job creation and protection in rural communities. “Everyone deserves good work that is secure and pays well, regardless of where they live. This decision shows we have a long way to go to make that a reality.”  

New Zealand forest owners say the just announced reform of resource management instruments will deliver clearer, more consistent environmental standards for production forests nationwide. Source: Timberbiz Forestry Minister Hon Todd McClay announced his plan to revise settings within the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry (NES-CF) at the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) conference. The reform will look to change the clause giving effect to regional freshwater management rules and remove the afforestation clause which allows councils to impose different planting rules on production forests from those stated in the NES-CF. New Zealand Forest Owners Association chief executive Dr Elizabeth Heeg says the reform will reduce the regulatory complexities faced by growers and streamline forestry’s environmental controls. “The departure from the National Standard and introduction of various councils’ environmental rules has created conflicting standards and confusion among growers as to which takes precedence,” Dr Heeg said. “These rule variations have placed significant pressures on growers, many of whom have had to apply for resource consents for new planting in low or no-risk areas, without any demonstrable need for these new rules. “Today’s announcement is a promising step towards addressing the issue and creating more consistent and outcome-based environmental regulations for forestry across the regions.” The NES-CF provides a nationally consistent set of legal obligations that aim to maintain or improve environmental outcomes related to commercial forestry activities. Not only will growers have greater certainty that the environmental rules set out under the NES-CF are appropriate for use across the country, but the reform will also address the issue of rules being introduced without justifiable evidence that more stringency is needed. “In the instance of Canterbury’s Plan Change 7 (PC7), there was a lack of evidence to justify the introduction of a more stringent local sediment discharge rule in place of what was already set out by the NES-CF,” Dr Heeg said. “The reform will ensure forest owners are operating to the same environmental rules across New Zealand irrespective of which jurisdiction they fall under. “Councils will be bound to deal with stringency through the NES-CF first and foremost.” While these changes will go some way to restoring the sector’s confidence in the regulatory framework, Elizabeth says ensuring policy remains evidence-based will be critical when it comes to implementing risk management tools. “Forest owners take their duty to be responsible landowners very seriously and go to great lengths to ensure good environmental outcomes for all concerned,” Dr Heeg said. “The sector is supportive of improvement to risk management tools, particularly where there is a need, however, it is important that these tools are supported by science. “Forest owners want to see the foundations of the NES-CF remain evidence-based. Any proposed amendments, such as McClay’s intention to improve slash management standards, must have strong scientific grounds to justify change. “Forest owners look forward to working closely with the Minister, councils and the community to ensure the new NES-CF settings are fit for purpose.” Reform of forestry’s resource management system will undergo consultation before any formal changes are made.

The South Australian Forest Products Association has launched “This is Wood Work” a powerful campaign shining a spotlight on career pathways in South Australia’s forest and timber industries – the ultimate renewable. Source: Timberbiz This industry-driven campaign, led by SAFPA, is supported by the South Australian Government’s Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Masterplan, and is about planning for the future and attracting talent to the industry and the regions. Wood Work is an online tool showcasing the broad diversity of career pathways and job options within the forest and timber industries, ranging from forest management, to harvest and haulage, saw and wood production through to corporate services. Forest industries are building our nation and with growing investment in new processing facilities, it’s an industry that requires skilled, technologically-savvy and environmentally-driven professionals, and the Wood Work campaign will showcase how to find a career with a diversity of pathways while contributing to a greener, cleaner future by producing the ultimate renewable product – timber. South Australia’s Limestone Coast is fast becoming the nation’s hub of forestry innovation with the Wood Work campaign designed to inform and attract job seekers about the multitude of forest industries jobs and careers. The City of Mount Gambier will be decorated in ‘This is Wood Work’ branding, from billboards on the main street, to the back of buses, adverts in the newspaper, on radio and on social media, reaching the core demographic of school leavers and young people looking for meaningful, stable career options. People are the future of the forest industries, and Wood Work is SAFPA’s commitment to future proofing South Australia’s forest and timber sector. To learn more about the campaign, please visit: www.thisiswoodwork.com.au

Saturday, 21 September, marks the start of FSC Forest Week 2024, a global initiative aimed at raising consumer awareness about the critical role of sustainable forestry. Source: Timberbiz Running from 21-27 September, this campaign, led by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), shines a light on the vital role of sustainable forestry in safeguarding the health of our planet. It highlights the incredible work of FSC forest stewards, who are on the front lines of combating climate change and addressing the biodiversity crisis. Over the years, FSC Forest Week has gained significant momentum, inspiring individuals, businesses, and organisations worldwide to take action. This year’s theme, “Small steps together create big change for all”, encourages participants to reflect on how simple daily actions, like making responsible purchasing decisions, can collectively drive significant positive impacts for our planet and its forests. In Australia and New Zealand, forestry organisations, retail giants, fashion brands, packaging leaders, environmental NGOs, and more will be celebrating in an array of ways. From social media participation to magazine features, catalogue highlights, internal awareness events, competitions, and other innovative approaches, FSC certificate holders, members, and promotional licence holders are demonstrating their commitment to sustainable forestry in dynamic and impactful ways. The campaign’s call to action is clear: taking steps, no matter how small, contributes to a more sustainable future. FSC Forest Week offers a unique opportunity for consumers, business leaders, and social and environmental organisations alike to engage in the conversation and help spread awareness about the importance of managing forests sustainably for future generations. But the work doesn’t stop at the end of the week, FSC encourages everyone to continue making conscious, forest-friendly choices in their daily lives, making this celebration the start of ongoing, positive change. Whether you’re an FSC certificate holder, member, or promotional licence holder, you can join the movement by registering for the campaign. If you’re outside the FSC system, you can still show your support by liking and sharing FSC ANZ’s content on social media. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for our forests and the planet’s future. FSC certificate holders, members and promotional licence holders register here. Find out more here: https://fsc.org/en/forestweek FSC Forest Week 2023 recap video: https://youtu.be/TfnjdpRy6ns

New Commonwealth laws provide protections for independent contractors working in the road transport industry and gig workers, from 26 August 2024. These laws operate alongside Victoria’s Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Act 2005. Source: Timberbiz There are laws hirers and freight brokers must follow when engaging owner drivers or forestry contractors. Failing to comply with some of these laws is a crime. If you are an owner driver or forestry contractor, the hirer or freight broker who engages you must adhere to the laws set out below. You can report a business you think is breaking these laws through an online form. The Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Act 2005 and Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Regulations 2017 outline the requirements you must follow when engaging an owner driver or forestry contractor. A forestry contractor is someone that runs a business to: harvest forest products using motorised equipment that they supply transport forest products. The contractor supplies the vehicles and operates at least one of them. A hirer is someone that engages an owner driver or forestry contractor. A freight broker is a broker or agent that procures or arranges the engagement of an owner driver or forestry contractor by a hirer. This includes online platforms that facilitate the engagement of owner drivers or forestry contractors by hirers. If you are engaging an owner driver or forestry contractor for a total of 30 days or more in any 3-month period, you must ensure they receive the relevant extensive information. This information must be provided before they start work. Where the engagement was initially for fewer than 30 days within a 3-month period but is extended, this information must be provided on the 30th day of the engagement. You must use written contracts if the engagement is for 30 days or more or has no fixed end-date. The contract must include the: guaranteed minimum hours of work or income level rates to be paid minimum notice to end the contract or payment to be made instead of notice. Hirers, owner drivers and forestry contractors must not engage in ‘unconscionable conduct’ with respect to each other, including during negotiations. Generally speaking, unconscionable conduct occurs where a stronger party to a transaction exploits a weaker party in a way that is unreasonable or unfair. However, what may amount to unconscionable conduct, or an unjust term will depend on all of the parties’ circumstances. It is important to seek legal advice. Owner drivers, forestry contractors and hirers can refer allegations of unconscionable conduct or unjust contract terms to the VSBC for alternative dispute resolution. If not resolved, they can then be referred to VCAT. You must not subject or threaten an owner driver or forestry contractor to any detriment for: raising health and safety issues claiming their rights under the Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Act 2005 or the Code of Practice seeking to negotiate a proposed engagement or contract seeking to renegotiate an existing engagement or contract. More information is available at: https://www.vic.gov.au/transport-and-forestry-business-support

Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia’s new mezzanine office and boardroom was formally opened by EWPAA Chair Stuart Toakley last week enthusiastically attended by industry and supply chain representatives. Source: Timberbiz The new office is open and welcoming, showcasing the flexible use of a range of EWPAA member companies’ renewable engineered wood products (EWPs), and offers staff a creative new space to work in and interact with industry. It demonstrates that a bland industrial unit can be made into a vibrant workplace. This previously mezzanine roof storage space was transformed by well-known industry stalwart and retired EWPAA employee, Andy McNaught. Though he may be retired, he’s still very much committed to the industry and promoting EWP use. From start to finish, Mr McNaught skilfully designed, managed trades, and built the new workspace. The EWPAA team is deeply grateful for his immense knowledge, his years of service, and the impressive quality and functionality of the new build. As you enter EWPAA’s front door, you’re greeted by a commanding laminated hardwood tabletop, skilfully manufactured by Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH), followed by more ASH laminated stair treads, leading to the new mezzanine office landing. Here you see an aesthetically immaculate feature of Austral Plywood vertical strips, accentuated by a backing charcoal painted wall. The Australian Panels’ particleboard STRUCTAflor may be easy to miss, as it’s not been used as a flooring product, but makes up the external cladding of the panelised framing sections. The unsung and unsighted heroes but are just as important are the now-clad products, AKD timber framing from the Caboolture sawmill, and Wesbeam e-joist. Two EWPs that do the job well and are a sensible and renewable choice for renovations and lightweight timber framing builds. Where the new office space really comes together is the exquisite interior. Australian Panels Easycraft Easy VJ100 is a simple product, that truly adds extensive value to the room. The softened texture from the floor-to-ceiling profile leads perfectly into the charcoal feature wall. Austral Plywood ceilings, doors, and trimmings are ever present, as they both pop with a flash of colour and grain texture yet are subtle and warming. “The new build reflects our commitment to innovative use of EWPs, our members, their products, and our renewable timber industry. The new workspace, created masterfully by Andy McNaught, is a welcoming environment which we’re proud of, and will show off every chance we get,” EWPAA CEO Gavin Matthew said. EWPAA Chair Stuart Toakley declared the new office was the ‘cherry on top of the cake’ of recent investments made by EWPAA and reflected the association’s leading role in providing timber technical expertise, product certification and testing throughout Australasia.

Whenever a Volvo Penta engine is sold, a partnership begins. Almost ten years ago, the first Eco Log 580E Harvester was fitted with the first Volvo Penta engine ever installed in a forestry application and sold to Swedish forestry specialists Nitta Rundvirke AB. Source: Timberbiz In 2024, when Nitta Rundvirke ordered another harvester, the Eco Log 590G with the latest D8 EU Stage V Volvo Penta engine, the sale marked a new milestone in the companies’ long-standing relationship, as well as the delivery of the 1,000th Eco Log machine powered by Volvo Penta. Frans Spetz is one of the co-owners of Nitta Rundvirke, located in western Sweden. Founded in 1965, the family-owned company operates in several industries, including transportation, excavation, and forestry. In addition to running his company, Frans conducts a lot of field tests. Extensive testing in demanding work environments, combined with an ongoing dialogue on improvements, is essential for finding the best solutions. By working in close collaboration with customers, Volvo Penta develops products and services that meet ever-increasing demands in terms of productivity, cost-efficiency, connectivity, and sustainability. With Nitta Rundvirke, new engines and machines are tested in various forestry applications, in their proper work environment. “As field testers, we are honest and straightforward throughout the development process,” says Frans. “There are other field testers that are just happy to try something new, without giving proper feedback or telling the manufacturer what they actually think. But we always do.” Among the machines that the operators of Nitta Rundvirke work with, and have tested thoroughly, are those of Swedish OEM Eco Log, equipped with Volvo Penta industrial engines. Frans bought his first Eco Log 580E Harvester almost ten years ago, outfitted with the very first Volvo Penta engine ever installed in a forestry application. More than 11,000 work hours later, that D8 Stage IV engine is still running today, in the same harvester, with only routine maintenance since its installation. When a forestry machine malfunctions in a remote location, the operator will often have to solve the issue on the spot. To keep costly downtime to a minimum, they need to know a lot about their machines and their engines. Frans and his colleagues use their machines to their maximum capacity. Even so, the D8 engine has remained robust and reliable year after year. “We had to change the water pump at some point,” Frans notes. “But that’s the kind of inevitable maintenance that comes from normal wear and tear.” Forestry machines are very complex, and operators demand a lot from them. However, the construction of both the machines and their engines needs to be intuitive and convenient, to facilitate maintenance when required. “When you dimension everything correctly, and the engine is easy to work with, it just makes everything a lot easier,” Frans says, adding that one of the reasons many players in the forestry industry choose Eco Log’s machines because they are equipped with Volvo Penta engines. In the spring of 2024, Frans ordered yet another harvester, the Eco Log 590G, equipped with the latest D8 EU Stage V Volvo Penta engine. Shortly afterwards, he saw a video acknowledging the delivery of the 1,000th Eco Log machine powered by Volvo Penta. “There was a clip highlighting the occasion, showing Volvo Penta coworkers displaying an engine with a shiny, gold-coloured engine cover, which I thought looked really nice,” says Frans. When Frans met with Eco Log and Volvo Penta to receive his new harvester, he was greeted by an unusually great number of people out in the forest. “They had brought cake and stuff, and there – under the hood of my new harvester – was the engine with the golden cover.” Frans’ D8 Volvo Penta engines – old and new alike – are put to the test every workday, by him and his colleagues. The engines’ robustness and reliability make his forestry operations more efficient and contribute to a more worry-free work environment. “The engines just keep going, meaning that we can keep going, too,” says Frans. “No repair needed, only occasional routine maintenance. It’s cool to know that the 1,000th engine sits right there, in our harvester. Not that we get that many opportunities to look at it, since it rarely ever needs to be checked.”

According to a survey conducted by the Finnish Shareholders’ Association, the Finnish Foundation for Share Promotion and T-Media, the most reputable listed company in 2024 is Ponsse. Source: Timberbiz The survey evaluated the reputation of 80 listed companies in the eyes of Finnish private investors. Ponsse is the only company in the survey to achieve an excellent reputation. The top three most reputable listed companies were Ponsse, KONE, and Gofore and Vaisala, sharing third place. Listed companies’ reputation was studied in May and June 2024, with a total of 7,958 Finnish private investors responding to the survey. Based on the survey model, the reputation of each company was rated on a scale from one to five. In the top three, Ponsse’s reputation was rated 4.04, Kone’s 3.98, Gofore’s 3.97 and Vaisala’s 3.97. This year, Ponsse was the only company in the survey to achieve an excellent reputation. Products and services, as well as good management, impacts on investment decisions Finnish private investors considered products and services to be the best aspects of the reputation of listed companies. In addition to the economic perception, the survey also showed that the images of management and the price-to-quality ratio of products and services guided the behaviour of private investors. “This is a great tribute to the entire Ponsse family. We are very grateful for this recognition. I believe this shows how we work together for the benefit of our customers. In a changing world, we need to keep up with new trends and keep our products and services competitive,” said Jarmo Vidgren, Chairman of the Board of Directors. The reputation was measured using the Reputation & Trust survey model, in which the evaluation is based on eight dimensions: governance; financial performance; leadership; innovation; dialogue; products and services; the workplace; and responsibility.