Australian timber industry news

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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