Australian timber industry news

Drones, also referred to as uncrewed aerial systems or UAS, have been increasingly complicating airspace around wildfires since the first consumer models came to market in 2013. Source: Timberbiz These mechanical critters of the sky are a nuisance to wildland firefighting when they are operating unauthorized in restricted airspace, putting pilots, their crews, and aircraft at risk. When unauthorized drones are sighted, the fire manager must shut down the airspace for all air operations supporting the wildland fire suppression for safety reasons. This means crucial aerial firefighting and lifesaving capabilities – like air medevac and fire suppression aircraft – can’t fly. People could die and more buildings and forest could burn when someone flies their unauthorized drone in restricted airspace In 2025, there were 218 drone sightings over active wildfires. Most of these occurred during last year’s Eaton and Palisades Fires in Los Angeles where 184 drone incursions were reported within the restricted airspace set up around the active fires. While that might not seem like a large number, especially near one of the nation’s largest cities, it’s more than the seven-year national total of 125 reported incidents. “We suspect the actual number of intrusions is likely higher, as detection can be limited by visibility and the availability of equipment,” said Lyndsay Johnson an assistant director of aviation safety for the Forest Service. Shortly after a midair collision in January 2025, between a water-dropping aircraft called the Super Scooper and a small consumer drone, a counter UAS task force was formed with the FBI, and Los Angeles County Fire Department and Sheriff’s department. “Counter UAS, is about detection and deterrence,” said Johnson. “They use a system to detect drones the second someone turns them on. They then can track the controller, the location of the operator and their flight profile.” That’s when an intercept team consisting of the sheriff’s department and the FBI go out to find the drone operator. During a one-day period on the Eaton and Palisades Fires, the intercept team conducted 49 detections and intercepts. One of these visits from the FBI can come with tens of thousands of dollars in fines, and prison sentences up to 12 months. The intentions of these drone pilots often fell into one of three categories – criminal, careless or clueless. Regardless of intention, flying drones in restricted areas has real consequences. Temporary flight restriction areas are supposed to provide aerial firefighting aircraft with a safe and secure airspace to operate. Each intrusion increases the likelihood of a midair collision. Johnson has heard many stories of near misses, sometimes close enough for the pilots to count the propellers.

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According to a report by the Wall Street Journal Weyerhaeuser plans to use artificial intelligence across logging, replanting, trucking and mill operations as it seeks to add $1 billion in annual profit by 2030 without relying on higher lumber prices. Sources: Wall Street Journal, Timberbiz Chief Executive Devin Stockfish told WSJ that the company has 125 years of forest-growth data and plans to use AI to improve decisions across its timberlands. The company said the targeted profit increase would roughly double 2025 profits. The company has hired John Scumniotales, a former Amazon Alexa executive, to help lead its AI deployment and aims to build a digital model of its timber properties using a combination of satellite images, drone footage and lidar. This will give the company tree sizes and species and a raft of detailed information. AI will be used to review this information and make predictions on survival rates of seedlings. Ai will then replace foresters producing faster, safer and cheaper data. More than 100 million seedlings a year are planted. The report said that the company is also testing semi-autonomous logging equipment including skidders that use AI assisted navigation and terrain mapping while an operator is in control but many miles away. It was reported that the technology could allow just one operator to manage multiple machines, and in the future other forestry equipment could follow this lead. The Wall Street Journal also said that the company is working with Nordic Forestry Automation on an in-cabin AI assistant, and the Weyehaeuser is also using AI to monitor mill production.

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According to the latest IndexBox report on the global forestry lubricants market, the market enters 2026 with broader demand fundamentals, more disciplined procurement behaviour, and a more regionally diversified supply architecture. Source: IndexBox The global forestry lubricants market is undergoing a structural transformation as operational demands, environmental regulations, and channel dynamics reshape competitive landscapes. By 2035, the market is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8%, with the market index reaching 145 (2025=100). This growth is supported by the accelerating mechanization of forestry operations in emerging economies, where rising labour costs and productivity targets drive adoption of advanced machinery and, consequently, specialized lubricants. Simultaneously, stringent environmental policies in mature markets, particularly the European Union’s push for biodegradability and reduced ecotoxicity, are compelling formulators to innovate beyond conventional mineral-based products. The market is bifurcating into a high-volume, price-sensitive segment dominated by private-label brands and a premium, performance-driven segment where branded players compete on certified claims such as OEM approvals, extended drain intervals, and bio-based content. Channel power is shifting from traditional industrial distributors toward integrated retail chains and specialized e-commerce platforms that bundle lubricants with equipment and service contracts. This report provides a granular analysis of market size, segmentation by product type (biodegradable hydraulic oils, chain and bar oils, gear oils, greases, engine oils, penetrating oils, synthetic lubricants, multi-purpose lubricants), end-use sectors, regional dynamics, and competitive landscape, offering a consistent, data-driven view for manufacturers, distributors, investors, and advisors navigating this evolving market. The baseline scenario for the forestry lubricants market through 2035 assumes moderate global economic growth, stable forestry output in key regions, and gradual tightening of environmental regulations. Under this scenario, global consumption is expected to rise from an estimated 1.2 million metric tons in 2025 to approximately 1.7 million metric tons by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 3.8%. The market value, driven by premiumization and bio-based formulations, is projected to grow faster in nominal terms. Asia-Pacific will remain the largest volume market, accounting for 38% of global consumption by 2035, fuelled by expanding plantation forestry in Indonesia, Brazil, and Vietnam, and mechanization of logging in China and India. North America and Europe, while mature, will see value growth as operators shift toward synthetic and biodegradable lubricants to comply with regulations and reduce downtime. The premium segment encompassing biodegradable hydraulic oils, synthetic chain oils, and high-performance greases is expected to outpace the commodity segment, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% versus 2.9% for conventional products. Supply chain resilience remains a critical factor; regionalized blending and packaging operations are prioritized to mitigate logistics bottlenecks. Pricing architecture is characterized by a 3-5x multiple between entry-level commodity lubricants and premium bio-based formulations, creating portfolio mix opportunities. Key risks include volatility in base oil prices, potential trade disruptions, and slower-than-expected adoption of biodegradable products in price-sensitive markets. Overall, the market is set for steady expansion, with innovation and regulatory compliance as primary growth levers. Harvesters and Forwarders (estimated share: 30%) Harvesters and forwarders represent the largest end-use segment, accounting for 30% of forestry lubricant demand. These machines operate under extreme loads, high temperatures, and constant exposure to moisture and wood debris, requiring robust hydraulic oils, gear oils, and greases. The trend toward larger, more powerful machines with higher hydraulic pressures is increasing lubricant consumption per unit. By 2035, demand is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2%, supported by mechanization in Asia-Pacific and replacement of older fleets in North America. Key demand-side indicators include forestry equipment sales, average machine age, and regulatory mandates for biodegradable fluids in sensitive areas. The shift toward bio-based hydraulic oils is accelerating, particularly in Scandinavia and Canada, where environmental certification schemes (eg Nordic Ecolabel) influence procurement. Major OEMs like John Deere and Komatsu are specifying biodegradable lubricants for new models, creating captive demand. The segment is also seeing consolidation among lubricant suppliers to offer integrated fluid management programs, reducing total cost of ownership for large forestry contractors. Current trend: Increasing adoption of biodegradable hydraulic oils and synthetic gear oils driven by regulatory pressure and OEM specif. Major trends: Rising adoption of biodegradable hydraulic oils to meet environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals, Integration of lubricant monitoring sensors and predictive maintenance systems in new harvester models, consolidation of lubricant supply contracts with OEM service agreements, locking in long-term demand, and development of high-viscosity index synthetic gear oils for extreme cold-weather operations in boreal forests. Chainsaws and Handheld Equipment (estimated share: 20%) Chainsaws and handheld equipment account for 20% of forestry lubricant consumption, primarily driven by chain and bar oils. This segment is characterized by high-volume, low-unit-value products sold through retail and aftermarket channels. Demand is relatively inelastic, as chainsaws remain essential for felling, limbing, and bucking in both industrial and small-scale forestry. By 2035, volume growth is projected at 2.5% CAGR, with value growth higher due to premiumization. The key trend is the shift toward biodegradable chain oils, particularly in Europe where regulations restrict mineral oil use in forests. Manufacturers are also developing low-staining formulations that reduce environmental impact and improve worker safety. Demand-side indicators include chainsaw sales (especially battery-powered models), forestry employment, and wildfire prevention budgets (which drive clearing operations). Private-label brands have gained significant share in this segment, pressuring margins for national brands. However, certified biodegradable products command a price premium of 30-50%, creating opportunities for specialized formulators. The rise of battery-powered chainsaws, which require different lubrication characteristics, is an emerging factor that may alter product specifications over the forecast period. Current trend: Steady demand for chain and bar oils, with growing preference for biodegradable and low-staining formulations. Major trends: Growing regulatory push for biodegradable chain oils in European and North American forests, expansion of private-label and store-brand chain oils in retail channels, intensifying price competition, development of low-staining, non-toxic formulations to meet worker safety and environmental standards, and Increasing adoption of battery-powered chainsaws, requiring reformulation of lubricants for lower viscosity and different operating temperatures. Skidders and Log Loaders (estimated share: 18%) Skidders and log loaders represent 18% of forestry lubricant demand, […]

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A ‘decent chunk” of New Zealand farmland is held by its owners as forestry woodlots, and for many it has proven something of a saviour in years of low farm income, says longtime farm forester and past Farm Forestry Association president Graham West. Source: Farmers Weekly “We have had members say it has been only thanks to their forestry woodlots and carbon income some years they have kept their pastoral farm going.” It is a valuable buffer sitting behind many pastoral operations, easily forgotten when protein returns have gone the way they have. “If you multiplied up the, say, 25,000 farms nationally and said generally most farms have 30-40 hectares of land that is less than ideal for farming and okay for planting, that is a significant amount nationally.” The Exotic Forest Survey results to April last year indicated that of New Zealand’s 1.8 million hectares of exotic plantings, a full 14% or 250,000ha is held across woodlots smaller than 40ha. While exact ownership is hard to determine, West agrees the bulk of these are likely to be woodlots on privately owned farmland. Longtime forestry manager Dave Janett has worked with many farmers, converting some of their farm to woodlots and retaining the best for pastoral. He also has multiple examples of farming families who converted some of their property to forestry and have thanked him for it as they struggled to generate true profitability over years of consistent very low single-digit returns. But he also sees forestry as offering only a partial solution to hill country farming’s inability to generate bankable returns. Janett concurred with Keith Woodford, who last year expressed concern that the hill country sheep and beef model does not present a viable opportunity for next-generation farmers. “Real estate agents have told me, ‘If your farm is not suited to dairy support, next tier, there is no interest, no one wants to go there.’” Graham West acknowledged current pastoral returns are high but cautioned that should not defer a deeper question NZ Inc needs to ask. “That is, have we got the balance of exports right? “Some would say NZ pastoral farming has plateaued, and NZ needs another new multibillion-dollar earning industry. We have 20 million tonnes of raw logs a year going out. Very few countries have a resource like that they could develop further to generate more export value.” He suggested pastoral lobbying has proven more effective in garnering resources than forestry has managed. “Where is the support for mills? There is the potential here for a $20 billion industry in timber. NZ’s current export earnings from forestry are $6bn,  with about half as raw logs.” He acknowledged some farmland loss to forestry, but in the context of NZ’s total pastoral area, he said, 3% of the total is minuscule. West also pointed to the high-value opportunities that exist for small woodlot owners in growing species other than pine, including redwoods, cypress and eucalyptus. “The moment you switch to pruned cypress, for example, you can be looking at three times the value of pines.” He said higher value species will become increasingly important to retain a realistic margin as harvest and management costs continue to rise for foresters. Dave Janett said even for wholesale forestry conversion, much of the heat has left the market, leaving some farmers who may want to exit without that option before them now. For farmers who may still be considering some forestry on their property, Janett said it’s not too late, and he still believes the Emissions Trading Scheme will hold up as a means of valuing and trading carbon. He also suspects that – despite earlier pushback from some in the pastoral sector – age, economics and demographics are compelling them to recognise forestry’s value as a land use opportunity to exit the sector, albeit one that may have already passed many by.

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Tabula has partnered with Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment to deliver an integrated aerial firefighting solution that connects drop execution directly with fireground decision-making thereby helping operators and incident controllers move from estimation to informed action. Source: Timberbiz Built around the Helitak Fire Tank, the integration combines Helitak’s proven aerial delivery system with Tabula’s FireVision platform to capture and share targeted drop data in real time. The result is a more connected fireground, where every drop contributes to a clearer operational picture. Aerial firefighting has traditionally relied on post-drop observation and radio communication to assess effectiveness. This new integration removes that disconnect. By linking the Helitak Fire Tank system with Tabula FireVision, operators can: Capture precise data on where and how drops are deployed Share that information instantly with fireground command Enable faster, more accurate retargeting for follow-up drops Reduce reliance on manual reporting and interpretation.   This creates a continuous feedback loop from execution in the air to decision-making on the ground improving both efficiency and effectiveness in fast-moving fire environments. As part of the integration, a dedicated screen is removed from the aircraft, reducing cockpit clutter and allowing pilots to stay focused on the task at hand. Drop data is captured and transmitted automatically through the connected system, removing the need for additional in-cab hardware while still delivering detailed operational insight to fireground teams. The partnership brings together two complementary strengths: Helitak’s globally recognised aerial firefighting hardware Tabula’s real-time operational visibility and data platform.   Together, the solution is designed to fit seamlessly into existing workflows, supporting both pilots in the air and teams coordinating response on the ground. “This is about more than capturing data — it’s about making every drop count,” said Michael Whittaker, CEO & Executive Chairman of Tabula. “By connecting what happens in the air with decision-making on the ground, we’re giving fireground teams the information they need to respond faster and more effectively.” “We’re always focused on delivering practical, reliable solutions for aerial firefighting operations,” said Jason Schellaars, CEO & Chief Engineer. “Working with Tabula allows us to extend the capability of the Helitak Fire Tank by linking it directly into a broader operational system.”

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New Zealand’s Far North District Council, Northland Regional Council and Northland Inc are encouraging investor interest in a significant wood processing opportunity in Taitokerau, as a market process gets underway for Juken New Zealand’s (JNL) Northland operations. Source: Timberbiz PwC New Zealand (PwC) has been engaged by JNL to lead a process seeking expressions of interest from parties interested in acquiring or operating the Northland Mill and Triboard plant in Kaitaia. The process is expected to remain open until late May, after which PwC will work with interested parties to assess potential investment options. Far North District Council, Northland Regional Council and Northland Inc say the facilities represent an established platform for wood processing in Northland, underpinned by a strong and sustainable forestry resource, experienced workforce, and access to domestic and export markets. Roger Ackers, Group Manager for Planning and Policy at Far North District Council says attracting the right investment is critical to maintaining and building on the region’s wood processing capability. “Forestry remains one of Northland’s key industries, and these operations play an important role in supporting regional productivity and value-add processing,” he said. “This process presents an opportunity for investors to build on existing capability, with the benefit of an established asset base and strong sector fundamentals.” Approximately 200 staff are currently employed across the sites, and the Council organisations say retaining these jobs and the skills they represent is a key priority. “Our focus is on supporting pathways that retain both employment and capability in the region, while enabling future growth,” Mr Ackers said. The councils and Northland Inc have signalled they are committed to working constructively with potential investors, where appropriate, to help enable viable proposals and support ongoing operations. Northland Inc Head of Investment Tui Rutherford says the region offers a compelling environment for investment in wood processing. “This is a genuine opportunity for investors to step into an established operation with strong fundamentals,” Mr Rutherford said. “Northland has a significant forestry resource, supported by experienced operators and well-established infrastructure. We see real potential to build on what already exists and support future growth in the sector.” Northland Inc is working alongside councils, PwC and JNL to ensure potential investors understand the strategic value of the operations within Northland’s wider forestry system. Northland Inc, Far North District Council and Northland Regional Council say they will continue to support efforts that help retain jobs, maintain processing capability, and position the region for long-term success. “Our message is clear – Northland is open for business, and we are committed to supporting solutions that keep jobs, skills and investment in the region,” Mr Rutherford said. Interested parties are encouraged to engage with the PwC-led sales process to explore the opportunity further.

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Australia’s building industry is being squeezed from all sides, with fuel price volatility now driving rapid and unpredictable cost increases across projects, supply chains and labour. Source: Timberbiz David Reid Homes Group is warning the sector is facing mounting pressure, with Managing Director Matt Jackson saying costs are now shifting so quickly that builders as well as many other industries, are struggling to keep pace. “Costs are changing by the day,” Mr Jackson said. “This is no longer a slow increase. It’s constant movement and it is putting enormous pressure on builders trying to deliver projects responsibly.” Mr Jackson said the building industry, like many sectors, is being heavily impacted by rising fuel costs, with flow-on effects across materials, transport and trades. “Fuel touches everything in construction,” he said. “It impacts deliveries, logistics, product costs, site visits and every trade getting to and from jobs.” He said the result is a compounding cost burden that many are finding difficult to navigate. “You’re not just dealing with one cost increase. You’re dealing with multiple layers of cost increases hitting at once.” Mr Jackson said apprentices and young tradespeople are among the most exposed, with many travelling long distances daily to get to worksites. “They’re the ones driving across cities, across regions, just to get to work,” he said. “They don’t have the financial buffer, and they’re being hit the hardest.” He warned the pressure on younger workers could have long-term implications for the industry. “If we don’t support young tradies, we risk losing the next generation of skilled workers.” Mr Jackson said reputable builders are increasingly being forced to absorb rising costs to protect clients, putting pressure on margins. “There are a lot of good, honest builders doing the right thing, trying to deliver projects at agreed prices but when costs keep shifting, that becomes incredibly difficult,” he said. Mr Jackson said there needs to be greater scrutiny across the supply chain to ensure cost increases are justified and not driven by opportunistic pricing. “If the government is serious about cost-of-living pressures, then it needs to look closely at what’s happening across building and supply markets,” he said. “There has to be accountability. Price gouging needs to be addressed and stopped.” He said unchecked cost increases ultimately flow through to homeowners. “When suppliers increase prices without transparency, it doesn’t just hurt builders, it pushes up the cost of housing for everyday Australians. This is an issue across many industries at the moment.” David Reid Homes is rolling out upgraded systems designed to help its network better track, manage and respond to cost fluctuations as stronger systems are now essential, not optional. “In this environment, you need real-time visibility on costs, timelines and supplier pricing,” Mr Jackson said. “That’s how you protect your business and your clients.” The combination of rising fuel costs, supply pressures and labour challenges is creating a critical moment for many sectors across the country. “The businesses that can manage costs and operate efficiently will survive. The rest will struggle. However, in the current environment, more needs to be done to ensure businesses do not engage in opportunistic gouging because it harms all of us in some way. The flow on effects are significant,” Mr Jackson said.

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The Forestry Centre of Excellence (FCoE) will host two days of learning and discussion in the Green Triangle Region including a field day and then a research showcase in its new building. On Wednesday 13 May you can see demonstrations of the silvicultural work underway through the Centre, then head to the Blue Lake area for hands-on demonstrations of technologies in Forest Assessment including LIDAR/drones, water monitoring, Resi tool, and virtual reality. A dinner will be held at the Bob and Gayle Cowan auditorium from 5.30pm onwards. On Thursday 14 May is the industry research showcase to be held at the Bob & Gayle Cowan auditorium. The FCoE is keen to highlight projects and solicit industry input via this showcase and dinner. The program is structured to encourage feedback from stakeholders on their future expectations of the FCoE. Tickets are free to all sessions, but bookings are required for ensuring proper catering and space. RSVP by Tuesday 28 April 2026 and more information at https://www.forestrycoe.com.au/news/fcoe-host-first-annual-showcase

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FSC Australia and New Zealand’s (FSC ANZ) Indigenous Working Group has formally transitioned to the First Nations Committee (FNC), reflecting the growing preference for ‘First Nations’ terminology and reinforcing the Committee’s ongoing role in advancing First Nations perspectives and championing FSC ANZ’s commitment to responsible forest management. Source: Timberbiz Since its establishment in 2014, the Indigenous Working Group has played an important role in shaping the direction of FSC ANZ, ensuring First Nations voices and perspectives are meaningfully represented. As broader conversations around identity and representation have evolved, so too has the IWG’s role and place within the organisation. With full endorsement of the FSC ANZ Board of Directors, the IWG steps forward as the First Nations Committee, a transition that reflects the growing preference for ‘First Nations’ terminology across both Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. This change also aligns with proposed updates to the revised Forest Stewardship Standard of Australia, which also includes a shift from ‘Indigenous’ to ‘First Nations’ terminology, and is set to enter its second round of public consultation later this month. At its inception, the title ‘working group’ signalled a defined, time-bound mandate. Over the years, however, the FNC’s scope, influence, and responsibilities have expanded well beyond those initial parameters. Reframing the group as a ‘committee’ acknowledges its ongoing and integral role within FSC ANZ, as well as its enduring partnership in guiding the future of responsible forestry across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The First Nations Committee (FNC) stands as a diverse and dynamic collective of First Nations representatives, united by a shared vision to strengthen leadership, knowledge, and influence within the forestry sector, for the benefit of current and future generations. All ten members bring a range of cultural perspectives, lived experience, and regional insight, grounded in deep connections to Country, community, and culture. “Over the past year, our committee has grown significantly, uniting even more voices and perspectives from across our communities. We look forward to continuing to deepen our influence within the forestry sector, ensuring First Nations values and knowledge are central to the future of responsible forest management in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand,” Tolita Davis-Angeles, Chair of the FNC, said.

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The Lakes Reserve on the edge of the Blue Lake in Mount Gambier is a demonstration forest site established 18 years ago. It contains all original provenances of Pinus radiata from North America, as well as improved material from selected breeding traits of interest and other species (Pinus pinaster and Pinus brutia), supplied by Tree Breeding Australia. Source: Timberbiz It was originally a genetic conservation planting demonstrating the history of tree breeding. The recent drought led to increased disease and considerable mortality that created risk to the community members who recreate in the forest. Dianne Patzel worked closely with the council and an industry working group to develop a Whole of Life management plan. The first step was to thin the stands to remove dead and dying trees to help the remaining trees grow and remove site risks. Dr Nari Williams, Anna Smith and Krishmina Thapa worked with Ms Patzel to assess the degree of disease and mortality, measure the standing volume and sample with the Resitool and Hovermap. The data will be analysed to compare the plots at the site. The site was thinned by Dohnts and the material was chipped to be used by Van Schaik’s Bio Gro. The Forestry Centre of Excellence plans to work with council to set up interpretation signage and then use this as a demonstration site where you can bring visitors to the region. The site could also be used by local schools and the new Limestone Coast Technical College is proposing bringing students there for hands-on measurements. There are many people to thank but Ockert Le Roux was involved in everything from the start, including council meetings and coordinating with stakeholders. David Kensley did the harvest planning and tree marking, Lew Parsons and David Geddes performed the financial analysis presented to Council, Dr Desmond Stackpole performed the drone assessment, and Clinton Sims assisted in early planning for the site. This is a great example of collaboration between the Centre, local government and local forestry companies.

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