Australian timber industry news

Caterpillar has eight new next generation Cat Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models. Four new Cat SSLs – the Cat 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE – mark the introduction of the next generation design to the SSL line. Source: Timberbiz Meanwhile, the new Cat 275, 275 XE, 285 and 285 XE mark the expansion of the next generation design for the CTL line, joining the 255 and 265 announced in late 2023. The largest CTLs ever produced by Caterpillar, the new Cat 285 and 285 XE compete in a new class size with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces. Maintaining the DNA of what made the Cat D3 series a leader, the next generation SSL and CTL models are a ground-up redesign that improves on the features that made the previous series popular. High performance is the standard for these next generation machines, elevating Caterpillar’s loader reputation through upgrades in engine power and torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort, and technology. The new SSL and CTL models carry on Caterpillar’s new machine nomenclature with the elimination of the series letter designation. All next generation Cat SSLs are now identified by an ending model number of 0, while all CTLs have a model number ending in 5. Simplifying nomenclature, the middle number represents machine size with a larger number All next generation Cat SSL and CTL models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads throughout all aspects of the work cycles. Meeting US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards, the four new CTL models are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs are powered by the Cat C2.8T and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. These new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series and boast significant torque increases 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285 for improved working performance. With a vertical lift design, these new next generation machines feature significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and ROC to elevate loader flexibility and performance. The Cat 250 features a lift height of 124 in (3150 mm), 3 in (76.2 mm) more than the 242D3, a 36% increase in tilt and 26% increase in lift breakout forces, and 21% increase in ROC. Offering a maximum lift height of 132 in (3353 mm), the 260 has 7 in (193 mm) more lift height than the 262D3 and 27% increase in tilt and 24% increase in lift breakout forces, and a 17% increase in ROC. With 6.4 in (162 mm) more lift height than the 272D3, the 270 and 270 XE deliver a maximum lift height of 133.5 in (3391 mm) plus 11% and 5% increases in tilt and lift breakout forces, respectively. The 275 and 275 XE CTLs have a lift height of 134.4 in (3415 mm), 8 in (203.2 mm) higher than the 299D3, plus a 37% increase in tilt breakout force and 19% increase in ROC. Expanding the Cat SSL and CTL line into the biggest size class, the 285 and the 285 XE deliver a lift height of 146 in (3708 mm) and tilt breakout force of 13,920 lbs (6314 kg). The 285 has an ROC of 4,719 lbs (2141 kg) with counterweight while the 285 XE has an ROC of 4,816 lbs (2185 kg) with counterweight. Their new closed-centre auxiliary hydraulic system allows these machines to operate all Cat Smart Attachments with the standard hydraulics provided. Standard hydraulic system pressure increases 5% to 3,500 psi (24130 kPa) in the next generation models. Cat 250, 260, 270 and 275 machines equipped with standard hydraulic flow are shipped from the factory outfitted as “High Flow ready.” High Flow functionality is activated simply via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) for the 250, 260, and 270 models and 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 275 at standard hydraulic system pressure. Also available, the High Flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi (28000 kPa) for the 250, 260, 270, 275 and 285 next generation models. Along with this, hydraulic flow is increased to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) on the 250, while flow increases to 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 260, 270, 275 and 285 models. Equipping the 250 with the High Flow XPS option gives customers auxiliary hydraulic performance not available before in a mid-size chassis SSL. Equipped for maximum hydraulic capability, the High Flow option for 270 XE, 275 XE and 285 XE loaders increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,496 psi (31000 kPa) and hydraulic flow to 40 gal/min (150 l/min). The four next generation CTL models feature a new E-bar (equalizer bar) undercarriage that provides increased stability for grading and handling heavier loads. The E-bar undercarriage harnesses Caterpillar’s heritage and leadership with track type tractors to provide a hybrid undercarriage solution. It delivers the benefits of a rigid-style undercarriage design when lifting heavy loads or using heavy attachments like mulchers and dozer and grader blades, while simultaneously providing the benefits of an oscillating undercarriage when encountering uneven terrain or obstacles. All next generation Cat SSLs and CTLs feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With a 2.75-in (70-mm) increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 in (46 mm) and allows for an additional 1.5 in (40 mm) of hip room and 1.1 in (28 mm) more width between the joysticks to improve operator comfort. Next generation loaders are equipped with either a 5-in (127-mm) standard LCD monitor or an 8-in (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the selected technology package. Like the advanced display […]

An international collaboration exploring using a robot from Finland, to improve productivity and consistency in propagation for forestry is being formalised. A key tool to help achieve those outcomes has been officially blessed. Source: Timberbiz Forest Growers Research (FGR) and Scion will sign a formal partnership agreement with the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) and the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk) as part of an FGR-funded research program. Tissue Culture Techniques for 21st Century Forests aims to expand and automate the use of somatic embryogenesis of radiata pine for the commercial forestry industry. Somatic embryogenesis is a process that induces immature embryos to produce masses of cells containing many tiny somatic embryos. These are encouraged to form mature embryos to develop into seedlings. Scion is the science lead on the research program which involves other international partners and aims to create a reliable and cost-effective propagation method to boost productivity and ensure consistent results. Sorting mature somatic embryos before germination is time-consuming and subjective so Scion and FGR are exploring using a robotics system from Finland for the task. Luke and Xamk jointly developed a robot prototype and software to automatically pick mature somatic embryos for germination. It uses automated image capture using machine learning and artificial intelligence to determine if the embryo should be germinated or rejected. The robot was initially programmed for use on Norway Spruce (Picea abies) and the tissue culture program is exploring its suitability for radiata pine. In September 2023, Scion staff including scientist Associate professor Jana Krajňáková visited Luke and Xamk to explore if the machine could be used for radiata pine embryos and successful trials led to its purchase in October 2023 by Forest Growers Research. In May the robot arrived at Scion. Xamk engineer Elmar Bernhardt assembled it, and Luke scientist Sakari Valimaki has been hosted by Scion while he trains the team in Scion’s Tissue Culture laboratory to work with the robot and the robot to work with radiata pine. The four parties are exploring integrating AI into the robot to achieve a working prototype for automated picking of radiata pine embryos. Commercialising the robot and expanding its use to other species is under preparation. They are also looking at the commercial potential of somatic embryogenesis for radiata pine. This month, the four-way collaboration is being formalised with the signing of a partnership agreement. The robot has been officially blessed. Dr Paul Adams from FGR says the Partnership is an exemplar of the benefits of international collaboration and a cross-disciplinary approach, learning from each other, gaining different experiences with different species, and finding a more efficient way of making faster progress. The ability to apply the learnings across other important forestry species will be a gamechanger into the future, he says. Krajňáková says there has been significant interest in the robot from industry partners and the first germination experiments have been undertaken. The robot aligns with one of the goals of the FGR tissue culture project which is to streamline propagation to make it more cost effective and efficient, she says. “The propagation process is time consuming and tiring and humans are not consistent. The robot’s algorithm uses the same criteria to select embryos around the clock.”= Having the machine also opens more commercial work opportunities and can increase efficiency. Dr Tuija Aronen and Dr Mikko Tikkinen from Luke say it is important to have experience using the robot with different species and the partnership will deepen the research collaboration with Scion and the New Zealand forestry industry. The green tech robotics partnership with Scion and FGR represents a key milestone in the internationalisation of Xamk’s research, development and innovation activities within the forest bioeconomy sector. “This technology promotes the green transition in an important research area for us”, says Hannu Leinonen, Head of Electronics 3K Factory at Xamk.  

There are many ways the New Zealand Farm Forestry Association (NZFFA) could have responded to Ewan McGregor’s opinion piece about the threat of pines to our rural landscape. Mr McGregor is a Central Hawke’s Bay farm forester, former deputy chairman of the HBRC, and a former president of HB Federated Farmers. Source: Timberbiz NZFFA said that one way would be to point out that we have been experiencing rural depopulation for decades as markets, costs and farming practices have changed. When farming is unprofitable, land is sold, and people leave. Forestry is often the next best option. Secondly, we have all seen photographs of devastated hill sides after storm events. Every year, millions of tonnes of farmland flow into the sea. Trees help control erosion, and pines are usually the most economical to use. Of course, deeper rooting species such as redwoods, poplars, and cypress would offer more protection, but it’s harder to justify the costs of planting and managing trees with long rotations. If there was an easy way to fund a mixture of conservation forests with high production values, everyone would do it. Thirdly, this Government has already largely halted the wide scale conversion of farms to pines by promising to restrict the amount of class 1 to 6 land that can be registered in the Emissions Trading Scheme. Projected new planting for the 2025 season is currently estimated to be less than 10,000 hectares. Finally, as Mr McGregor notes, one of the best ways for farmers to secure the future of their farming operation is to incorporate mosaic planting of the less productive parts of their farm in a mixture of high value timber species. This will protect waterways and erodible faces, make stock management easier, and provide another income stream for the farm. The Emissions Trading Scheme can help finance that establishment work. Mr McGregor’s original story is at: https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/column/land-use-change-could-be-permanent-if-we-let-it  

  Stepping from the classroom into a nature-based career, staying in the local area and earning a great wage with career advancement. That’s been the success story behind recent careers expos on the Mid North Coast where Forestry Corporation has informed students of the pathway to employment through an Environmental Science and Management degree at the Port Macquarie campus of Charles Sturt University. Source: Timberbiz “Two of those students now have roles in Forestry Corporation’s Wauchope-based ecology team and they are proving to be valuable additions to the team,” Forestry Corporation’s Senior Field Ecologist Mark Drury said. Ecologist Levi Brett is one of the local university students who has recently graduated from CSU in Port Macquarie and obtained employment with Forestry Corporation. “The hands-on experience I get with animals with firefighting and mapping has been great, it’s a flexible workplace and there are lots of career paths in forestry – all of these positions are based in different regional locations,” Mr Brett said. “I was first introduced to forestry when Senior Ecologist Chris Slade gave some lectures while I was studying at university, so I followed that with some work experience and later on I applied as a forestry officer undertaking surveys in the field. “I really enjoyed that, so I applied for a field ecologist position, and I have been in that role now for almost a year. “Now forestry has given me my opportunity to study my Honours hosting me out in the field where I am studying threatened Golden Tipped bats and how their recovery post bushfires.” Ecologists in Forestry Corporation undertake broad habitat monitoring programs recording interactions with flora and fauna along with various preharvest surveys. For many in the team, the appeal of the career is working outdoors with wildlife in a role that’s focused on protecting endangered species. “Students have participated in tree marking, recreation area maintenance, road maintenance, ecology surveys for threatened plants and animals, wildlife habitat clump field reviews, cultural heritage work, all amongst some of the most scenic locations on the coast,” Mr Drury said. “When Levi first started with us, I told him he mightn’t not know it yet, but he has landed himself one of the best and most sought-after jobs on the coast – I think he appreciates what I said now,” he said. A recent Port Macquarie Careers Day co-ordinated by Mid Coast Connect was attended by more than 1200 high school students. Forestry Corporation had five local staff present with a good display of tools of the trade, both old and new, a category nine firefighting unit, ecology monitoring equipment, Forest E learning virtual reality headsets and even a display of preserved local forest animals. A similar careers day was also held at Taree organised by the Taree Universities Campus. “Around 2,000 students from all over the district attended and five staff were kept busy all day explaining what a day in the life of a forestry worker is and how diverse and exciting a career in the industry could be,” Mr Drury said. “The forest office at Wauchope has also hosted around 10 work experience students from both local high schools as well as students from the environmental science and management degree at the Port Macquarie Campus of Charles Sturt University,” he said.  

New Zealand’s pulp and paper industry has lost a pulp mill and could lose another to an energy crisis that shows little signs of abating. Source: IndustryEdge The Winstone Pulp International (WPI) pulp mill on the Central North Island will close permanently and cease manufacturing Bleached Chemi Thermo-Mechanical Pulp (BCTMP) immediately. A second pulp mill, the recycling mill owned by Oji Fibre Solutions at Penrose in the Auckland region, has been proposed for closure by the end of the year, citing energy costs as fundamental to the expected decision. The Penrose mill employs around 75 people and is the sole fibre recycling facility in New Zealand. Oji was quick to point out that its extensive collections would continue, the fibre being shipped to other Oji recycling mills, including most likely the Malaysian operation. IndustryEdge’s long experience in the pulp and paper industry reminds us no manufacturer likes closing facilities, including because of the impact on the workforce and their families and livelihoods. That means the situation is serious, so, how did it come to pass? Pulp, paper and energy At a facility level, and also at a national level, there is no escaping the fact that manufacturing the world’s paper, paperboard and fibre packaging products is energy intensive. Though energy is used throughout the process of manufacturing pulp and paper, some operations can be self-sufficient for thermal (heat) and electrical energy. These are mainly the chemical pulp mills, where one of the by-products of circular manufacturing and the recovery of chemicals, is abundant energy. Other facilities are however less self-sufficient, but still energy intensive. This is the case for the WPI mill, which uses energy to produce a ‘mechanical’ pulp and has limited thermal and even less electrical energy outputs. The situation is even more severe for Oji’s Penrose recycling mill, which has little to no capacity to recover or create energy. These facilities are essentially stand-alone energy-sinks and are far more vulnerable to energy price rises than other pulp and paper mills. Couple that with the vulnerabilities created from selling into global commodity markets where ‘the price is the price’ and we can easily see there is also no opportunity to recover higher energy costs. Especially when those costs have increased 600% over three years! Energy prices exploded in NZ – whats going on? New Zealand’s energy prices have increased a widely reported 600% over the last three years, from around NZD100/MWh to NZD700/MWh in early August. How could that possibly happen? There is no easy answer to this question, but its enough to say it’s a complex mix of too much reliance on a single source of electricity (hydro), insufficient gas to supply domestic industry and a zealous approach to create electricity markets that in their design appear to have been short on what should have been the real objective: supply sufficient electricity to meet the nation’s needs! We’ll take these in turn. Over-reliance on hydro It is important at the outset to note that the forestry and wood products industries, including the pulp and paper manufacturing sector, are among the fiercest advocates for renewable energies, whether biomass, wind, geo-thermal, chemical, solar, hydro or other. That said, we think it reasonable to say that perhaps New Zealand has been overweight hydro-electricity for a VERY long time. The chart below shows the last fifty years of New Zealand’s energy generation and the dominance and importance of hydro over all time periods. From an astounding peak of 83.7% of total electricity production in the DQ75 (that’s the oil crisis), through to a low of 45.6% in JQ08 (due to a drought), hydro has ruled in New Zealand. NZ Electricity Production by Type: MQ74 – MQ24 (Proportion) In many respects, hydro has been the cornerstone of the New Zealand economy, and has led it to be a country in which renewables have averaged more than 80% of all electricity supply, delivering 85.7% of total electricity in MQ24, for instance. The long run advantages of that difference to countries like Australia are not insignificant, but they also do not come without risks. As was evidenced in 2008 when there was an extended drought, the reliance on one energy source alone, left New Zealand’s domestic economy vulnerable. Since then, a concerted effort has been deployed to introduce new forms of electricity generation. Geothermal has expanded dramatically, as has wind, while gas by contrast, has contracted its share of total electricity supply. Changes in the energy mix focussed on more renewables because gas, coal and oil place a heavy carbon burden onto an economy which has operated without them for so long. It seems it is not the reliance on renewables that has caught New Zealand out so sharply most recently but it is in part, the reliance on hydro that has left it vulnerable and seen prices rise very sharply. Despite the current drought, hydro contributed more than 55% of New Zealand’s electricity in MQ24. Gas is in retreat The second chart shows the growth rates, over the last 40 years of the four major electricity sources. It is remarkable for some important reasons. First, because no sooner was it introduced and wind energy exploded, literally, off the chart (see the arrow). Second, because geothermal has grown four-fold in the last twenty years. Third, because hydro has consistent, seasonal ups and downs but has been relatively stable over the full period. Fourth, because gas fuelled electricity supply has halved over the last decade, compared with the average of the previous decade. NZ Electricity Production by Main Type: MQ84 – MQ24 (INDEX) Wholesale energy prices in New Zealand increased by 600% from September 2021 to August 2024, hitting NZD700/MWh in early August, albeit falling back to NZD450/MWh as this analysis was being prepared. In a balanced supply, as the renewables drop off for natural occurrences (droughts, for instance), we could anticipate a shift to gas, as peaking or replacement capacity. That cannot occur in New Zealand because it does not have sufficient gas, and […]

The Softwoods Working Group welcomes the recognition by the NSW Government in the need for a ‘step change’ in approach and better cohesion in responding to invasive weeds and pests.  Source: Timberbiz The Minns Labor Government’s commitment to addressing biosecurity threats is evident in the release of the Natural Resources Commission’s (NRC) preliminary report, ‘Reducing Risk, Securing the Future – NSW Invasive Species Management Review.’ The Group appreciates the focus on invasive species management and recognises that continued research and funding are essential to safeguarding the state’s landscapes and industries. Invasive species, including the persistent issue of blackberries, present significant challenges to the region, limiting economic growth and impacting local jobs, Gross Regional Product (GRP), and household incomes. The softwoods industry is a major contributor to the region’s prosperity, and addressing these biosecurity threats is vital to unlocking the area’s full potential. “The Softwoods Working Group and its members are absolutely dedicated in finding a solution to the Blackberry challenge as well as other invasive species and pests for our region as it affects not only the plantations, but all forms of land management activities.” Chair of the SWG Peter Crowe said. The Group is encouraged by the Minns Government’s funding allocation in this year’s budget for biosecurity, as well as the additional funds to rebuild essential research infrastructure. The Softwoods Working Group looks forward to continuing collaboration with the government, industry experts, and stakeholders during the consultation phase, and anticipates further progress on addressing the impacts of invasive species across the state. “We extend our thanks to the Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, for her commitment to combating invasive species and ensuring that biosecurity remains a top priority,” SWG executive Carlie Porteous said. Key highlights from the NRC preliminary report include: The escalating cost of invasive species, which has surged from $661.2 million in the 2000s to $1.9 billion in 2022-23. The potential for biosecurity threats to cost the state $29.7 billion annually by 2030 if immediate action is not taken. Initiatives such as the Feral Pig Program, the Good Neighbour Program, and updated pest and weed management strategies aimed at reducing the impact of invasive species. The Softwoods Working Group is committed to working alongside the NSW Government to protect the region’s environment, economy, and future prosperity. You can download the report here.

The timber and forest industry has celebrated the life of well-known career forester Peter Hopkinson, who passed away recently, aged 94. ‘Hoppy’ as he was affectionately known served for almost four decades with the NSW Forestry Commission. Source: Timberbiz Hoppy was well-known in the industry for his service to forestry on the Mid North Coast and in the Northern Rivers and Central West. Continuing the family legacy, Peter’s son Glenn Hopkinson followed in his father’s footsteps. Glenn, who has worked for Forestry Corporation for the past 28 years, said the family wished to thank Peter’s many friends, who have passed on their thoughts and well wishes. “Dad was born in Sheffield, Yorkshire and came out to Australia with a mate in 1950 as a Ten Pound Pom,” Glenn said. “He kept the original newspaper clipping that he saw in England advertising the need for manual labourers to emigrate from the UK to Australia to help the nation grow. “After working on a sheep station near Warwick, Queensland, Dad settled into a career in forestry with the NSW Forestry Commission,” he said. Peter was appointed to the position of temporary forester and after he finished his studies became a forester with the NSW Forestry Commission in 1964 where he was placed in charge of surveys at Wauchope. In 1970, Peter transferred to Oberon and then to Casino in 1972. He later returned to Wauchope in 1975 where he remained with the Commission until his retirement in 1988. Testament to the mark that Peter made in forestry, a landmark was named in his honour – Hoppys Lookout, near Yarrowitch. “Dad came across the vantage point a few years before he retired from forestry,” Glenn said. “They were putting in a road between Hastings Forest Way and Spokes Mountain Trail, which runs off Racecourse Trail about an hour and half drive from Wauchope when they discovered this spot. “It is such a scenic vista, looking back to Walcha, taking in the Macleay Valley with views right back to Kempsey. “It was virgin forest back then and Dad did the preliminary survey work constructing a trail to the area around the lookout. “His boss John Mills put forward a request to name the lookout after Dad. “The site was later transferred over to National Parks and Wildlife and the decision was made to keep the name Hoppys Lookout. “Nowadays there is a good, fixed track up there where you can walk up the hill to enjoy the view. “We took Dad back to the lookout a few years ago, which was special, and I think we might head up as a family and celebrate Dad’s life. “It was a place that Dad loved to visit, sitting and taking in the view,” Glenn said  

Trans-Tasman forestry and sawmilling company OneFortyOne has released its Annual Review for 2024 highlighting progress, resilience and continuous investment, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and operational excellence. Source: Timberbiz “Since 2019, OneFortyOne’s Annual Review has been an opportunity to reflect on the year that was and the path forward,” OneFortyOne CEO Wendy Norris said. “Our journey towards a better tomorrow is not just a strategic priority but a core part of our identity and ambition.” Now in its 12th year of operation OneFortyOne has continued to build on its strong foundation, delivering sustainable growth and value to stakeholders. Ms Norris expressed her pride in the company’s achievements. “Our team members and partners have been the driving force behind our performance this year,” she said. “Their efforts have supported each other, our customers, and our communities, demonstrating the resilience and commitment that define OneFortyOne.” OneFortyOne’s commitment to safety remains paramount. Significant capital investments have been made at the Jubilee and Kaituna Sawmills to enhance safety measures. The company has also focused on strengthening a culture of safety leadership and care, ensuring that every individual feels safe to raise concerns and address wellbeing matters promptly. “Our primary objective is to ensure that every person comes to work and goes home safe and well every day,” Ms Norris said. “We have made substantial investments in safety and are continuously working to build positive cultural conditions that support this goal.” The company’s dedication to community is exemplified through its Pine Community Grants Program and long-term partnerships supporting diverse projects in science, education, and nature. Surveys conducted with recent grant recipients have provided valuable insights into the impact of these grants, helping organizations achieve both short-term and long-term project goals. Despite challenging market conditions, OneFortyOne remains committed to its investment program, focusing on long-term growth and sustainability. “We are here for the long term,” Ms Norris said. “I extend my gratitude to our people, our Board, contractors, partners, and customers for their exceptional dedication and support. Together, we are making a significant impact and paving the way for a better tomorrow.” Download the Annual Review here.

Metsä Group’s production units annually generate around 12 million tonnes of wood-based carbon dioxide, and the company is increasingly focusing on promoting its large-scale capture. Source: Timberbiz Now Kaija Pehu-Lehtonen has been appointed project director of Metsä Group’s carbon capture project. “Bio-based carbon dioxide is an important but still untapped side stream that could be har-nessed more effectively as the technology and markets develop,” he said. If carbon capture proves viable, it will provide the forest industry with a new high-volume wood-based raw material that can be used to replace fossil-based materials. “We aim to use Nordic wood in a resource-efficient way and make ever greater use of our production side streams to convert wood into increasingly valuable products,” said Sari Pajari-Sederholm, EVP, Strategy at Metsä Group. The first survey exploring what the large-scale carbon capture from the bioproduct mill’s flue gases would mean for Metsä Group as a technology and in terms of energy will be completed this year. Next year, Metsä Group will carry out pioneering work by piloting carbon capture at the Rauma pulp mill with ANDRITZ, a technology company. If implemented, carbon capture would open up opportunities for a significant new chemical industry in Finland and boost the Finnish hydrogen economy. “For example, renewable hydrogen and wood-based carbon dioxide could be used to produce synthetic methane or methanol for further processing,” Pajari-Sederholm said.

Combilift has secured two more awards – Design Team of the Year and The Industry Leader of the Year this time at the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024. Source: Timberbiz The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award was presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team for their exceptional work on the groundbreaking 12-Wheel “Combi-LC Blade.” This cutting-edge machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades, which can reach up to 115 meters in length and weigh as much as 70 tonnes. Heavy Equipment Design Team drew upon their extensive experience in engineering complex transport systems, previously creating the renowned Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry ranges. In addition to this remarkable team achievement, Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, received the coveted ‘Industry Leader Award’, sponsored by Menzies. This accolade honours McVicar’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have played a pivotal role in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector. Mr McVicar’s leadership has been instrumental in Combilift’s success. Since co-founding the company, he has overseen its rapid growth, transforming it into one of Ireland’s top exporters, with a projected turnover of €500 million this year. His approach to leadership combines technical expertise with a hands-on, inclusive management style. Known for his engineering prowess, Mr McVicar has a background as Chief Engineer at Moffett Engineering, a role he held at the young age of 19. Under his guidance, Combilift has become synonymous with innovative problem-solving in material handling, consistently delivering tailored solutions for complex logistical challenges. The judges highlighted Mr McVicar’s ability to navigate the company through a range of external challenges, from the impacts of the pandemic to global supply chain disruptions, while maintaining a forward-thinking approach that identifies opportunities for growth and transformation. Beyond business success, Mr McVicar is deeply committed to fostering a strong corporate culture. Combilift’s headquarters, the largest factory under one roof in Ireland, serves not only as a manufacturing hub but also as ambassadors for corporate social responsibility. The company regularly hosts apprenticeship schemes, charity events, family days, and educa-tional visits, further solidifying its role within the local community. Combilift also sponsors the local Ladies GAA team, demonstrating McVicar’s commitment to supporting gender equality in sports. Combilift’s double win at the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024 is a testament to the company’s innovative spirit and visionary leadership, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the material handling industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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