Australian timber industry news

Seeds from two trees that survived the atomic bomb attack on Hiroshima at the end of World War Two are being grown at Keele University, in Newcastle UK, as part of an international project to promote peace and hope. Source: Timberbiz The seeds were collected from an oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) in the grounds of the Tenma Elementary School, which was destroyed by the bombing and a 200-year-old ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba) growing in Shukkeien Garden. Both trees were situated less than a mile from the bomb site on 6 August 1945 and miraculously survived the bombing. They will now be cared for by experts at the university until they become tall and sturdy enough to be planted in the ground. The seeds were sent to Keele through the Green Legacy Hiroshima initiative, which aims to distribute seeds and saplings from ‘survivor trees’ worldwide. “It is a great honour to have the opportunity to nurture seeds from trees that survived the Hiroshima bombing,” Dr Sarah Taylor, a lecturer in ecology at Keele, said. “Now that we have the seeds, we can begin quite a long painstaking process of propagation and nurturing. The seeds will be sown onto compost and kept in heated plant propagators until signs of germination appear. “The seedlings will need to be nurtured for several years before they are large enough to plant on the university campus, where we hope they will be a source of reflection and inspiration for a long time. “Although they are tiny right now, they are still very powerful symbols of peace and hope and have so much history connected to them. It’s going to be exciting to see the first green shoots rise from the earth.” Keele is the 19th UK partner of the Green Legacy Hiroshima initiative. The project was brought to the attention of the University’s arboretum committee by Franco Castro Escobar following his postgraduate research trip to Hiroshima in the summer of 2024. “Keele has a special connection with Japan through the collection of cherry trees that we have on our campus, and this project will build on that relationship,” Mr Escobar said.

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Stora Enso is initiating a strategic review of its Swedish forest assets. The review includes assessing a potential separation and public listing of the forest assets through a partial demerger. Source: Timberbiz The initiative aims to further increase business focus, streamline operations, and fully unlock the value of both the forest assets and Stora Enso’s core packaging business. As part of this review, Stora Enso will explore various options, including a potential separation and listing of the forest business through a partial demerger into a new company that would be wholly owned by all Stora Enso shareholders. This move aims to establish two robust and independent entities, each with heightened focus and strategic agility. Stora Enso would continue to lead in renewable packaging, with strong market positions and more flexible, integrated, and cost-competitive production. Meanwhile, the Swedish forest business would emerge as Europe’s largest listed pure forest company, owning a unique class of assets with anticipated long-term value appreciation and potential for significant new revenue streams. Following the recent agreement to divest approximately 175,000 hectares of Swedish forestland for an enterprise value of EUR 900 million, in line with book value, Stora Enso retains ownership of over 1.2 million hectares (1.0 million hectares of productive forestland) in Sweden, with a fair value of approximately EUR 5.8 billion as of 31 March 2025. While these assets are integral to Stora Enso’s wood supply chain, they possess a distinct operational, financial, and strategic profile. “Our Swedish forest assets exemplify excellence in sustainable forestry operations and environmental stewardship,” said Hans Sohlström, President and CEO of Stora Enso. “Initiating this strategic review underscores our commitment to maximising shareholder value while ensuring alignment with our long-term strategic objectives. By evaluating various strategic options, we aim to enhance business focus, reduce complexity, and unlock the full potential of both our forest and industrial assets.” Stora Enso plans to provide an update on the strategic review by the end of 2025. All changes are subject to co-determination negotiations and other potential legal procedures in all impacted countries.

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The International Sustainable Forestry Coalition (ISFC) has welcomed the release by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) of its new Standard covering the way greenhouse gas accounting should be applied to wood and wood-based products. Source: Timberbiz Until the publication of this Standard, there had not been an internationally agreed upon accounting approach for biogenic carbon emissions and removals – an important piece of the puzzle to support corporate climate action and reach global net zero targets. The new series is ISO 13391 Wood and wood-based products — Greenhouse gas dynamics and covers all essential components of carbon accounting for the sector: carbon in forests, carbon in harvested wood products and potential greenhouse gas emissions avoided through the use of wood-based products instead of fossil-based products. “The forestry and forest products sector is a vital contributor to global net zero ambitions – removing and storing carbon in the trees in our productive and conservation forests, and in the wood and paper products, which also play an important role in the circular bioeconomy, replacing fossil-based products,” Chief Executive Officer of the ISFC Ross Hampton said, “However, the role of the forests and forest products sector in the battle to meet global emission reductions goals has been hamstrung by a lack of an internationally agreed accounting process to underpin the calculations covering how much carbon is stored in forests and forest products. “For this reason, we congratulate ISO, and the national standards bodies* which feed into the ISO process, for this definitive work.” ISFC encourages ISO to complete its full suite of standards for GHG accounting and corporate net zero as soon as possible to ensure maximum uptake as time is critical in the battle against a warming climate. ISO 13391 parts 1 and 2 is considered a complement to the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol’s Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard, which is widely used by ISFC Members and the global business community. The GHG Protocol Corporate Standard is generally recognised as the appropriate way to account for organisational level GHG fossil-based emissions.

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New Zealand’s Fieldays held at Mystery Creek last week was full of tractors, the latest agricultural technology, gumboots and more. But it also provided a glimpse into a different world. Source: Timberbiz This year Scion sponsored the Forestry Hub stage, where there were plenty of conversations around gene technologies, native trees, the circular bioeconomy and more. Scion scientists Peter Clinton, Diahanna O’Callahan and Simeon Smaill talked about how forestry and agriculture can work together to address climate challenges, why treated radiata pine is built to last and how we can apply radiata pine growth learnings to create indigenous forests. Scion chief operating officer Florian Graichen also attended this year and said the event was a whirlwind of inspiration and collaboration. His highlights include a visit to the inaugural German Pavilion, which featured more than 10 leading agri-businesses, and meeting European Union Ambassador to New Zealand Lawrence Meredith, which could help Scion identify new collaborative opportunities with Europe. “The Scion team had a great time sharing their cutting-edge science, catching up with friends and business contacts and making new connections,” Mr Graichen said. Mr Graichen, Alec Foster of GM Forests to Bio-based Products and portfolio lead Marc Gaugler featured on the Forestry Hub stage. Mr Craichen and Mr Foster shared insights on the future of biotechnology and Scion’s continued innovations to help transform forestry exports, and the exciting journey as we join the Bioeconomy Science Institute from 1 July 1. Mr Gaugler focused on the bioeconomy in the forest: Transforming trees into tomorrow’s products. He also showed international examples of commercially established products that add value to forest resources and could help increase exports from NZ resources. Scion’s innovations aim to embrace opportunities and solve challenges as New Zealand moves to a circular bioeconomy focused on sustainable design and renewable resources.

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Gisborne Council, New Zealand was on the ground on at Porangahau Station in Te Karaka, sharing practical insights and supporting landowners at Beef + Lamb NZ and Te Uru Rākau’s ‘Planting for Profit Field Day’. Source: Timberbiz The event brought together farmers, land managers, and forestry advisors for a farm tour and a series of workshops focused on land management. Sessions covered practical topics such as carbon forestry 101, how to navigate the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), strategies for erosion control, riparian planting and building farm resilience through proper planning. Bryce McLoughlin, Senior Land Management Advisor, was a key speaker presenting how Council is working alongside the community to support sustainable land use across Tairāwhiti. “Every property is different – and that’s why we have our land management advisors out there, working directly with landowners to provide tailored support.” “We’re helping farmers, land managers and landowners make informed decisions using the latest science and planning tools.” Mr McLoughlin also shared how Council is using science and powerful technology to better understand the landscape and support long-term change. “We now have access to technology and modelling we’ve never had before.” “It’s helping us understand the land in much more detail and that means we can give more precise advice and support to landowners.” This includes access to high-resolution LiDAR data, a landslide susceptibility and connectivity model, gully assessments, and field verification – which are all tools Council is using to guide smarter land use. The farm tour also provided a space for farmers and advisors to share their observations, suggestions and lessons learned from their own properties. There were various discussions ranging from where to focus erosion control to how planting could complement existing land use. Speakers also included forestry advisor Tim Petro, who gave a practical overview of carbon farming, and Danielle Castles from Te Uru Rākau, who led a workshop on the ETS. Mr McLoughlin said events like these are a valuable opportunity to connect with locals and strengthen relationships. “Having these conversations are incredibly valuable for our team,” he said. “It helps us ensure Council’s work reflects what’s happening on the ground and the priorities of the people who work and live here.” For more information on Council’s sustainable land use work programme, visit www.gdc.govt.nz

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Sustainable Timber Tasmania CEO Steve Whiteley will retire at the conclusion of his current term. STT’s General Manager Operations Greg Hickey will take over as acting Chief Executive Officer effective from 1 July. Source: Timberbiz STT chairman Rob de Fegely said Mr Whiteley had successfully guided the organisation through a period of significant transformation. “His vision and commitment have been instrumental in positioning the organisation for long-term success,” Mr de Fegely said. “On behalf of the Board, I extend our sincere thanks for his outstanding contribution.” Mr de Fegely said that Mr Hickey brings extensive experience in Tasmania’s forest industry and is exceptionally well-placed to lead the organisation during this transition. “Supported by the executive team, Mr Hickey will provide stability and direction as the Board undertakes a national recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive Officer,” he said. “Sustainable Timber Tasmania enters this new chapter with strong momentum and remains focused on delivering sustainable outcomes for Tasmania’s public production forests, while continuing to provide value to the Tasmanian community.” Australian Forest Products Association CEO Diana Hallam paid tribute to Mr Whiteley. “On behalf of Australia’s forest industries, I congratulate Steve on his career that has included more than 40 years of dedicated service to STT, the broader industry, as well as service as an Independent Director on the AFPA Board since 2018,” she said. “It was clear to me when I joined AFPA last year as someone new to the industry, that Steve was a well-respected industry leader who provided a steady hand, vision and commitment to the management of STT, as well as quality advice to the rest of the industry through his role on the AFPA Board. “It’s no surprise to me that Steve’s leadership has been instrumental to positioning STT for long-term success and I particularly thank him for his advice, insights and contribution with regards to Tasmanian forestry and human resources matters for AFPA.”  

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In a landmark move to accelerate the future of sustainable construction, CLT Toolbox is making its complete, top-tier “Pro” software platform available entirely free to every university student and educator worldwide. Source: Timberbiz The offer is effective immediately until June 30, 2026, and is for the full professional toolkit and is available to all students in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, UK, USA and Canada. Students and faculty get unrestricted access to: A complete suite of advanced design calculators for Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Glued-Laminated Timber (GLT), members, and connections. Complex design capabilities, including ambient and fire design for floors and walls, shear wall and diaphragm analysis, and intricate connection detailing. Compliance with multiple international standards, including Eurocode 5 and Australian/New Zealand Standards. Transparent calculation routines, a key feature that allows students to inspect the underlying logic and bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. Flexibility to select from a diverse range of trusted partner products across the mass timber supply chain. This provides you with the freedom to choose from a comprehensive library of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Glued-Laminated Timber (GLT), and connection systems from leading manufacturers, ensuring your designs meet specific project requirements and regional availability. The company says this initiative is its investment in building the essential educational infrastructure needed to empower the next generation of engineers and decarbonize the built environment. The company says this initiative comes at a critical time. The global construction industry is under immense pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, with building materials accounting for 11% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Mass timber stands out as a proven, scalable solution – the only mainstream structural material that is renewable and acts as a carbon sink. Studies show that using mass timber can reduce a building’s embodied carbon by up to 75% compared to traditional concrete and steel structures. With the global mass timber market projected to grow to US$1.3 Billion by 2030, this program is designed to cultivate the skilled workforce needed to meet this surging demand. The announcement has been timed to precede the World Conference on Timber Engineering (WCTE) 2025 in Brisbane. As the world’s premier forum for presenting the latest technical innovations in timber engineering, WCTE brings together the exact community of researchers, educators, and practitioners this initiative seeks to empower. By launching ahead of this key event, CLT Toolbox aims to signal its deep commitment to and alignment with the global academic and research community driving the future of timber construction. “My own university experience included only four weeks of timber education. When I wanted to tackle a mass timber project for my final year thesis, I had to teach myself everything from scratch,” said Adam Jones, CEO of CLT Toolbox. “If a tool like CLT Toolbox had been available to me then, it would have been a game-changer. By making our professional-grade platform free for all students, we are removing that friction and empowering them to design with sustainable materials from day one. “Access to professional-grade tools like CLT Toolbox at the university level is a game-changer. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, equipping our students with the skills needed to lead the sustainable building revolution from day one of their careers.” University faculty, deans, and academic administrators can register their institutions for free global access for all students and staff by visiting clttoolbox.com, signing up with student email & sharing proof of studies to Corey Jones at corey.jones@clttoolbox.com.au

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Australia’s forest industries are disappointed the Commonwealth and State governments have given up trying to eradicate the insidious Polyphagous Shot-hole borer (PSHB), a tiny, imported beetle with the potential to destroy Australian forests and devastate our forestry industry. Source: Timberbiz The National Management Group (NMG) met on Wednesday and determined it was no longer feasible to eradicate the pest and a transition to management will now be finalised. “We’re disappointed that governments have effectively accepted the PSHB is here and here to stay. The likelihood it spreads from metropolitan Perth to other parts of the country has increased as a consequence of the decision to move from an eradication to a management strategy,” Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association Diana Hallam said. The Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer is a damaging tree pest that could seriously impact forestry industries and destroy trees and ecosystems from local gardens to national parks Australia-wide. The beetle, first detected in WA in 2021, is spreading through backyards, urban forests and native reserves across metropolitan Perth killing trees. “The risk this beetle poses to trees in forestry operations, national parks, reserves and even backyards is immense and the cost borne by our industry and other stakeholders, like local councils, to prevent its spread and manage its risk will unfortunately, likely increase. “We know in South Africa and California, where PSHB has already established itself, the losses and cost of management are in the billions of dollars across local governments, horticulture, forestry and the environment through tree deaths or increased management costs,” Ms Hallam said. “Despite our disappointment, we do welcome the Western Australian Government’s commitment of $26.5 million towards the PSHB response in the State’s Budget announced this week. “AFPA will continue to work with our industry and other stakeholders on the impact of the NMG’s decision and protecting forestry operations from the PSHB moving forward.”

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Timber engineers from all corners of the globe toured the world’s largest timber hybrid building this week in preparation for the World Conference on Timber Engineering (WCTE 2025) next week in Brisbane. Source: Jason Ross Wood Central The world’s largest timber-hybrid building under construction described as a “timber building inside a much larger building” is now visible across most parts of the Sydney CBD, with crews working to build the 39-storey skyscraper over the city’s central train station. It comes as dozens of the world’s top timber engineers toured the Atlassian Central Tower site on Thursday where they heard from Tim Allen, TTW’s timber structural lead and Tim Crawshaw, BVN’s project architect about the project, which will eventually see 30,000 cubic metres of cross-laminated timber and glulam supplied by European giants Stora Enso and Wieharg used in the construction of the building’s timber habitats. Wood Central understands that the habitats comprise seven different four-storey infills, with three levels of cross-laminated timber flooring (per habitat) sandwiched between steel and concrete floor plates. Speaking about the project last year, Mr Allen said the floors connect to the concrete floors via drag straps, using a lateral design that is one of the most advanced in the world. “Why build a 39-storey building partly out of timber? “It comes down to using the right timber for the right application,” he said. Today delegates will see several of Sydney’s other timber buildings, including the Eric Tweedale Stadium (winner of the 2021 Australian Timber Design Awards), the Macquarie Incubator and Law School, and Lendlease’s International House, the winner of the 2018 World Architecture Festival, Best Use of Certified Timber.

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In the April edition of the Builders Bulletin, Jeff Harvey stated some facts, repeated over the years by Jeff and the industry. Starting with the basic facts that our trees grow on rain and solar energy and are easily regrown – the ultimate “Carbon Capture and Storage Technology.” At the same time, although eucalyptus are great carbon (CO2) absorbers in their early years of life, they absorb less CO2 as they approach 80 to 100 years, drop branches and leaves, become carbon neutral and eventually, carbon negative. Management for the harvesting and regeneration of regrowth timber is not allowed through changes to State Government policy in 100% of Victoria’s native state forests. Previously the Victorian timber industry was harvesting only 0.04% per annum of total forests ie the equivalent of about four trees in every 10,000, from previously disturbed forest and all harvesting is replanted. I wonder how this 0.04% could possibly be unsustainable as the Victorian state government (under Dan Andrews) has decided? A tree grows on solar energy, absorbing carbon dioxide naturally. That carbon dioxide (CO2) is converted into carbon that is captured in the timber products we produce and sell. Approximately half of the dry weight of timber is carbon. All old growth forests are locked up and have been for many years. The timber industry has sustainable forest practices, the basis of which is to replant at least 4 trees for every tree harvested. Taking all the above into account, there is now an Industry Active Forest Management Strategy that I believe makes sense and would (should) satisfy all parties that are interested in the future of our native forests and the role timber can play in our quest for a liveable environment. Solutions that deliver important benefits and wider community needs including – forest health and resilience, reduced wildfire risk, greater biodiversity and wildlife protection outcomes, and also sustainable, renewable, local and independently certified Victorian hardwood products. Interrogate the forest management research to understand broader views rather than base forest management on narrow viewpoints. Some of this work has been completed. The current situation of no native forest operations enables the opportunity to consider forest management from scratch-a fresh start. The fresh start would not consider the industrial type of clear fall harvesting or coupe burning. Selective harvesting widely practised in the hardwood forests of Europe and USA for centuries have maintained the same forest and biodiversity in perpetuity. There is no burning of slash. Harvesting is low intensity so any remaining slash cannot carry a continuous fire. Crown cover is maintained not allowing too much light that would encourage fire prone ground species. Selective harvesting incorporates all forest values and is now being successfully practiced in Tasmanian private forests, with the same species as in Victoria under strict approved Forest Practices Plans This a low-cost model that enables funding for forest improvement and fire prevention and suppression work and the management of pest plant and animals. It is also self-funding. Monitoring is an important component both before and after forest activities to both show improvement and improve forest management practices. Currently much of the forest is unhealthy. There is a lack of resources to implement healthy forest management regimes. Forests are more susceptible to wildfire because flora has changed and there is not the access or intent to conduct low intensity burning. There is limited access to quickly control fires using existing roads and tracks. Pest Flora (eg weeds-blackberry, St John’s wort, ragwort, oxalis) are unmanaged, abundant and widespread. There is limited access to control. Pest Fauna (eg deer, foxes, dogs, cats, European wasps) are unmanaged, abundant and widespread. There is limited access to control. There is not enough money to manage state forests or national parks. All of the above reduces biodiversity values. Active Forest Management Offers a solution. Select harvesting of some areas allows healthy forests to grow. There is no burning and therefore no immediate carbon emission. Active forest management enables a better climate change solution as more carbon is stored in the forest and in forest products than under a lock it up system. Access is continually maintained for the management of pest flora, fauna, forest health and to control fires. Low-cost selective harvesting (no seed collection, burning or regeneration programs are required). Forest produce maintains an income for sustainable management. The industry accepts harvesting and maintaining road access costs are higher than the previous more intensive industrial harvesting and ‘cut out get out’ roading, and that these funds are used for whole of forest management. Healthy forests enable fire prevention and reduce the fire protection costs by having smaller less intense wildfires (saving the Victorian taxpayer). Jack Bowen is the chairman of Bowens Timber

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The third annual Global Legal and Sustainable Timber Forum will take place from 23–24 September 2025 in Macao SAR, China. Under the theme “From Forest to Home – An International Dialogue on Emerging Consumer Trends and Supply Chains Innovation”. Source: Timberbiz The forum will promote international dialogue on strengthening legal and sustainable timber supply chains in the face of evolving consumer demands and market dynamics. Co-hosted by the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) and the Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute, the forum will bring together around 700-800 participants including wood enterprises and trading companies, industrial and business associations, governments, international organisations, research institutions and others. Specialised sub-forums organised by partner agencies will also focus on issues related to timber legality and sustainability among different stakeholders, including: Timber legality and sustainability in light of global trade barriers Sustainable timber resources, markets, and trade Market Trends and Industry Innovation in Furniture & Customized Home Furnishings Empowering the Value of Ecological Products through Forestry Supply Chain Finance For more information and registration details, visit https://en.glstf.net/  

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In 2023, Komatsu Forest announced an initiative to establish a brand-new development department focused on the electrification of forestry machines. With this investment, the company aims to reduce the net carbon emissions from its forestry equipment. Source: Timberbiz The initiative aligns fully with the company’s goals, where sustainability is a core principle throughout the entire operation. “We have a carbon-neutral production facility, and we are working with the same determination to reduce CO2 emissions from the use of our forestry machines. Our goal is to develop efficient products that are fundamentally designed to minimize environmental impact and reduce CO2 emissions, here electrification plays a key role. The long-term vision is to achieve a ‘net zero emission worksite,” said Erik Nilsson, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Komatsu Forest. Peter Hasselryd, VP Marketing & Sales at Komatsu Forest said the company is seeing growing interest from customers and partners in reducing the environmental impact of forestry machines. “Our goal is to reduce net CO2 emissions through new technological solutions, that we expect to introduce gradually,” he said. Opening the door to electrification in forestry is a groundbreaking technological step for Komatsu Forest but it also presents major challenges. Since the machines operate off-grid, outside the existing power network, many factors must be considered when developing new machine solutions. To enable the use of various energy sources, different energy distribution solutions are needed at the forest worksite. Success in this transition will require collaboration, partnerships, and the development of new technologies and system solutions. “Almost exactly two years ago, we announced our investment in electrification. We have now developed a concept prototype that will be shown for the first time at Komatsu Days 2025. The concept prototype is a forwarder with hybrid-electric technology. Hybridization is a first step in electrification, where the existing renewable HVO100 fuel distribution can be used just like in our conventional machines,” Mr Nilsson said. The machine features a smaller but efficient engine connected to a generator. It is equipped with a battery pack that balances the engine load and improves the coordination of the machine’s functions. Many of the machine’s subsystems are fully electric, making it energy efficient. “The goal of the machine is to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions without compromising productivity, while also achieving improved performance and drivability. The concept prototype will now undergo testing and evaluation before the next step can be taken,” Mr Nilsson said.

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Forest products professionals in the Nordic region are being squeezed by high raw material costs and evolving environmental regulations that have immediate and long term implications. Source: ResourceWise Over the past year, domestic softwood pulplog prices rose in Norway by 25%, in Finland by 15% and in Sweden by 11%. These cost increases are occurring alongside early signs of pulp production slowdowns in some areas. While the reasons vary by market, many producers are closely watching both supply conditions and regulatory developments that could influence fibre availability going forward. Two key policy developments from the European Union are adding complexity to long term forest planning. The Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) regulation aims to improve carbon sequestration through forest management — a goal that may prove difficult to meet without changes to current harvesting levels in Sweden and Finland. In addition, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which goes into effect this December, is expected to reshape sourcing practices for timber and other forest-based materials. These regulations introduce new factors for forest owners and wood-using industries to consider as they plan future harvests and investments. ResourceWise’s Market Insights report provides a more detailed overview of current pulpwood price developments, regional differences across Finland, Sweden, and Norway, and how producers are responding to emerging challenges. It also highlights the potential impact of EU climate legislation on harvesting activity and forest management strategies in the Nordic region. Download the full report here https://www.resourcewise.com/how-high-costs-and-eu-policy-are-reshaping-nordic-forestry?hsCtaAttrib=191266109720

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The movement of mobile plant and vehicles in and around a workplace, including reversing, loading, and unloading, pose a significant risk to pedestrians in the sawmilling industry. Source: Timberbiz The Mobile Plant & Pedestrian Interaction Guidance Document has been produced by the Workplace Health and Safety Subcommittee (WHSS) – a subcommittee of the Softwood Manufacturing Chamber of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA). This Guide is designed to assist anyone in the timber industry to readily identify and manage mobile plant and pedestrian interaction risk. Read the document here – Mobile Plant & Pedestrian Interaction https://ausfpa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Mobile-Plant-Pedestrian-Interaction.pdf

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Scion has launched the world’s first field trial of gene-edited conifer as part of research aimed at improving wood quality and producing materials to support New Zealand’s bioeconomy. Source: Timberbiz The Crown Research Institute has developed and implemented an advanced gene-editing technique known as CRISPR that lets scientists turn off a specific gene within the pine’s complex genome. This helps them understand what that gene does – which in turn builds understanding of how wood develops. Two sets of trees have been planted, each with a separate gene turned off. This aims to enhance timber quality and improve the process of converting wood into fibre (pulping) and sustainable chemical feedstocks for the bioeconomy. One of these genes is involved in the synthesis of hemicellulose, a renewable biopolymer (a molecule produced by plants with many versatile, high-value applications. The other is involved in the development of compression wood, which forms on leaning or bent stems to straighten them up. Compression wood behaves differently from normal wood during timber processing, leading to issues such as warping and reduced strength, as well as making the extraction of fibre and chemicals more difficult. The trees in this trial were initially cultivated in a contained greenhouse, where their wood underwent a comprehensive analysis. This research yielded unique and fundamental insights into the mechanisms of cell wall formation. The trees have subsequently been planted in Scion’s Environment Protection Agency-approved GMO field test containment facility to help scientists better understand how they perform under real-world conditions and to collect sufficient wood for relevant biomechanical experiments. Scion senior scientist Glenn Thorlby says the trees’ growth and development continue to be meticulously monitored. “This research will allow us to produce trees that, with optimised wood properties, will support the export of high-value timber and the biomass needed to replace petrochemicals as New Zealand transitions to a low-emissions sustainable bioeconomy. Additionally, Scion has also developed gene-edited Douglas-fir to create sterile trees that could be planted without the risk of exacerbating New Zealand’s wilding pine issue. These sterile trees would potentially act as a form of biocontrol for future genetically modified trees. “This will enable Douglas-fir to grow normally but not reproduce, helping limit its spread,” Glenn says. “By targeting reproductive genes, we offer a potential solution to New Zealand’s wilding pine problem.” Wilding pines occur when forest species such as Douglas-fir spread beyond planted areas, impacting native ecosystems and landscapes across New Zealand. Since 2016, the government has invested $150m in wilding conifer control, mainly targeting Douglas-fir, which is New Zealand’s second most widely planted forest species and plays a significant role in the country’s economy. It generates export earnings, provides employment and supplies structural timber for construction. However, its seeds spread and germinate easily, leading to wilding pines that threaten native landscapes and ecosystems. Planting is therefore restricted and harvested trees are often not replaced, posing a threat to the future of the Douglas-fir forestry industry and the jobs it supports. Scion’s team is using advanced sequencing and analysis tools to pinpoint genes specifically involved in reproduction. Trees with these identified genes inactivated through gene editing have been developed and must now undergo field testing to confirm they grow normally but don’t produce the seeds responsible for spread. Scion hopes to undertake these field trials when future regulations allow. Alec Foster, Scion’s general manager for Forest to Biobased Products, highlighted the opportunity this work offers New Zealand. “This gene-editing achievement represents exactly the kind of transformative science New Zealand needs to secure its economic future. “We’re solving today’s forestry challenges and pioneering solutions that could be worth billions to our economy. The ability to create sterile Douglas-fir trees that grow normally but can’t spread as wilding pines, combined with radiata pine optimised for higher-value timber and biomanufacturing, demonstrates how gene technology can simultaneously protect our environment and drive economic growth,” he said. “With the government’s modernisation of gene technology laws, we’re hopeful we will finally positioned to translate this world-leading science into real-world outcomes that will benefit every New Zealander.”

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Tasmanians can now get their first proper look at what could become the state’s largest sporting venue, with a detailed scale model of the proposed Macquarie Point stadium now on public display. Source: Pulse Tasmania. The model, showcasing the $945 million development, has been set up at Red Square in Hobart’s Mac Point precinct. It gives locals a chance to see exactly what planners have in mind for the waterfront site. Commissioned by the Macquarie Point Development Corporation, the replica captures key design elements of the proposed stadium, including its distinctive translucent roof made of Tasmanian timber. Local materials also feature in the model itself, with the base crafted from celery top pine processed at the University of Tasmania’s Launceston campus. The model took several weeks to create with the help of architects, technologists and local craftspeople. The display comes as the Tasmanian Planning Commission continues its assessment of the stadium proposal under the state’s project of state significance process, which allows major developments to bypass standard planning procedures. Attempts to bypass the planning commission and instead fast-track the project through special legislation have been derailed by the overnight announcement of a state election, with any enabling legislation now needing to be re-introduced to the next parliament. The model will remain on display as the planning process continues.  

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The University of Canterbury (UC), New Zealand research team UC Vision has spent the last eight years developing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) that can use precise tools in complex, dynamic environments. Source: Timberbiz Led by UC Computer Science Professor Richard Green and UC Mechanical Engineering Professor Dan Zhao, the team demonstrated their prototype chainsaw drone to industry representatives this week. Professor Green says the new drone is a breakthrough with potential to make trimming trees around power lines and pylons safer and more efficient without the need for ladders and scaffolding. “Last year we developed a drone that was capable of carrying a pruning tool, but we’ve refined and adapted the technology to attach a chainsaw that allows thicker branches to be cut,” he said. “We believe this tool will be transformative across a range of different industries where jobs are inaccessible and hazardous for humans, making them safer, more cost-effective and more efficient. This includes arboriculture, electricity infrastructure industry and civil construction.” The technological challenges of the project included accurate estimation of the drone’s motion and the branch it is going to cut, as well as achieving the aerodynamics and precise control required for the drone to cut branches autonomously in a wide range of dynamic environments, Professor Green said. Other researchers involved in the project, funded over five years by a $10 million grant from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, include UC Senior Research Engineer and UAV expert Dr Sam Schofield and University of Auckland Mechanical Engineering Professor Karl Stol. The team is working in collaboration with a number of Kiwi UAV experts, international researchers, and UAV manufacturers and users. Professor Green hopes to have the chainsaw drone ready for commercialisation next year.

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Australia’s forestry industry wants the Commonwealth and State governments to ramp-up eradication efforts of the foreign Polyphagous Shot-hole borer. Source: Timberbiz Polyphagous Shot-hole borer – or PSHB – is a tiny beetle that could destroy millions of hectares of Australian forests and wreak havoc with suburban trees nationally. The PSHB, which is prevalent in other parts of the world, was first detected in Perth in 2021. It’s a tiny, exotic beetle that bores holes into tree trunks, stems and branches, eventually killing susceptible trees. Hundreds of tree species are at risk of attack from this environmental pest including eucalypts. “Without all jurisdictions committing to a properly funded and coordinated approach to eradicate the PSHB, there’s a serious risk the pest could spread across Australia and seriously impact not only the forestry industry, but also suburban trees across parkland, backyards and reserves, as well as other forests and national parks,” Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association Diana Hallam said. Under Australia’s biosecurity provisions, the resourcing of responses to environmental pests is cost-shared by the Commonwealth and State and Territory governments – which have been working to date with Western Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to eradicate the beetle through a combination of regulatory, surveillance, tree removal and public information activities. “We welcome the efforts being made so far – but we’re concerned insufficient resources are being provided in Western Australia in the attempt to eradicate or contain the PSHB,” Ms Hallam said. “Our sector feels particularly exposed as our second most important plantation species, the Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), is susceptible to infestation and a reproductive host. Should the PSHB spread to plantation areas it would jeopardise a significant segment of Australia’s sustainable $24 billion forestry and manufacturing industry and the 180,000 direct and indirect jobs that rely on it. “It’s not just the forestry industry. In Perth, the PSHB is destroying trees in backyards, gardens, urban forests and native reserves across the suburbs. Can we imagine if major parks or botanic gardens in our other major cities were littered with sick or dying trees because of this pest?” In South Africa and California, where PSHB has already established itself, the losses and cost of management are in the billions of dollars across local governments, horticulture, forestry and the environment through tree deaths or increased management costs. Failure to act decisively now risks setting a dangerous precedent: that environmental biosecurity threats can be ignored and will be rightly seen by many as dereliction of the shared responsibility of governments across Australia to protect our unique environment and essential industry. As is the case with current efforts to control Red Imported Fire Ant in Queensland, a shared-national response is appropriate. Without eradication or effective containment in the long-term, Australia’s efforts to preserve biodiversity, provide locally sourced timber and wood-fibre for sovereign capability, increase carbon capture and grow our urban canopies will be undermined by this insidious pest.  

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The volume of new home sales increased by 6.9% in the month of May 2025, to reach the highest level in 13 months, according to the HIOA. 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. “This rise in sales follows the second cut to the cash rate in over four years,” HIA Senior Economist Maurice Tapang said. “The monthly increase in new home sales is consistent with demand factors remaining robust, as Australia records low levels of unemployment, strong population growth and rising prices for established homes. “Across the states, the results have been mixed. This month, New South Wales and Victoria were the only states surveyed to report increased sales volumes, albeit from very depressed levels,” he said. “Sales volumes in New South Wales and Victoria have been exceptionally weak over the past two years. This increase is the first suggestion of an improvement in market conditions in these states.” New South Wales reached a 20-month high since the pull-forward in new home sales in September 2023, while Victoria reached a 13-month high since its pull-forward in April 2024. Mr Tapang said new home sales in Queensland remained relatively stable in May, following a strong increase in sales recorded in the previous month. This upward trend in the volume of sales in Queensland has been evident for at least the past year. The volume of sales in South Australia and Western Australia also fell in the month but remain robust. The continuation of a $10,000 incentive for construction workers to relocate to Western Australia will assist to resolve its key constraint, labour capacity. “Even with further cuts to the cash rate, and a recovery in market confidence, there remains a shortage of housing in Australia due to the regulatory barriers to increasing supply,” Mr Tapang said. New home sales in the three months to May 2025 rose by 19.6% in Western Australia compared to the previous quarterly period. This was followed by Victoria (+16.9%), Queensland (+7.2%) and New South Wales (+3.6%). Over that same period, South Australia recorded a 5.8% decline in sales.

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There was a timber trail to Mount Gambier last week as 250 guests gathered to mark a significant milestone. Source: The SE Voice The South Australian Forest Products Association hosted (SAFPA) a dinner to celebrate 2025 marking the 150th anniversary of the South Australian forest and timber industries. SAFPA chief executive Nathan Paine said as the birthplace of Australia’s commercial plantation estates, South Australia’s forest and timber industry leaders, along with the Premier, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Minister for Forest Industries, State politicians, local members of parliament, mayors and members of the community, gathered to celebrate the shared history and to highlight the contributions the industry has made to the national and cultural identity. “This celebration is more than a dinner, it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to stand behind an industry that has shaped regional communities, driven economic growth and delivered environmental benefits for 150 years,” he said. “From the first hectare of trees planted in 1875 in the Bundaleer Forests in the Mid-North, the industry has grown to 176,000 hectares, directly and indirectly employing over 21,300 jobs, processing fibre that builds our homes, the pallets that move consumer products from manufacturer to shop, the pulp and appear products that are used in our everyday lives from toilet paper to cardboard boxes, to the potting mix that grow our fruit and vegetables. “South Australia’s forestry plantations are the foundation of our state’s future. Our state has long been at the forefront of innovation and sustainable forest management, and the 150th celebratory dinner marks a proud reflection of the industry’s enduring success and it’s growing importance to the State’s economic value chain, regional development and environmental sustainability.” Mr Paine said, along with the environmental and sustainable benefits of the industry, the 150th anniversary dinner highlighted the importance of those who have dedicated their career to the industry. “Their commitment, passion, drive and innovative practices have shaped South Australia as a leader in forest management, timber production and research,” he said. “A special thank you to our major partner, OneFortyOne, and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions for their generous support of this event. South Australia has an incredible community of forest and timber managers, employees and supporters, and it’s a milestone opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the legacy and future opportunities of South Australia’s forest industries.”

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