Australian timber industry news

Seppi M has designed an all new ‘E20 direct’ for excavators weighing from 12 to 21 tons. This mulcher head for excavators promises increased efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and improved performance for forestry and earthmoving professionals. Source: Timberbiz ‘E20 direct’ represents the first model of a new family of forestry mulchers designed for excavators. Recognizing the diverse applications of forestry mulchers, Seppi M has designed the ‘E20 direct’ to excel in construction site clearing, vegetation management along highways, railways, and power lines, as well as in wetlands maintenance and agricultural field reclamation. The heart of ‘E20 direct’ is the rotor with fixed tools featuring the ‘cut control’ system, driven by the innovative direct drive hydraulic transmission. The machine can mulch vegetation up to 20 cm in diameter. Its cutting-edge design partially integrates the hydraulic motor into the rotor, eliminating belt transmission and reducing power losses due to friction by approximately 50%. The result is improved efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and increased available power – all contributing to enhanced productivity. With four different working widths, ranging from 100 to 200 cm, ‘E20 direct’ is recommended for excavators weighing between 12 and 21 tons, offering versatility and performance in a variety of applications. Its compact design and reduced weight, thanks to the use of durable materials such as AR400 steel, make it more universal and easier to use and mount on various excavators.

The North Carolina Forestry Association (NCFA) has teamed up with the North Carolina Future Farmers of America Association (NC FFA) to create North Carolina’s first-ever high school forestry course with an industry-aligned credential: AN53 Natural Resources II-Forestry. Both organizations have collaborated with ForestryWorks to create the course, which will be implemented in high schools for the 2024-2025 school year. Source: Goldsboro Daily News In North Carolina, there is a steady need for skilled forestry professionals due to ongoing forest management needs, forest products manufacturing, and conservation efforts. However, recent statistics show us that the overall forest workforce in the US is aging, with 59% of the total forestry and logging labor force between the ages of 35-64 and only 12% between the ages of 16-24 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). “When it comes to selecting a career path, students have many options before them,” said Jessica Ireland, Director of Education Programs, NCFA. “We know it’s important to foster interests at an early age, and many students do not know about forestry, the forest products industry, and the wide range of career pathways within the industry. We saw an opportunity to bring this education to the forefront.” The labor data within the forestry industry tells us that we will soon need to create a new generation of skilled workers. The good news is the demand for these workers exists within a variety of areas from the forest industry to state and federal forestry agencies to municipalities, to consulting firms, to universities, and more. “When the NCFA came to us with the idea to create a brand-new forestry course, we knew we had to get involved,” said Joshua Bledsoe, State Agricultural Education Leader and State FFA Advisor, North Carolina State University. “NC FFA is excited to partner with NCFA to support workforce development efforts through this course and credential. The future of our state’s workforce starts with our youth and giving them the tools they need to succeed.” The course itself is one of the first of its kind, a product of direct input and feedback from various members of the NC forestry industry. “We strongly believe that [this course] will be of great value to students, setting the standard for how new courses will be approached and introduced into curriculums in the future,” said Bledsoe. AN53 Natural Resources II-Forestry is a semester-long course that is available to high schools with an agricultural education program offering the Natural Resources pathway. The course includes a designated Forest Worker Credential that was approved by the NC Department of Public Instruction earlier this year. The credential, issued to students who pass the exam with a 70% or higher, is recognized by the NC forest industry. “I am honoured to be among the first teachers to offer this forestry class in its pilot year,” said Heather Whitmire McNeely, Agriculture Teacher, Rosman High School. “It’s important to offer our students the full picture of the agriculture industry, and that includes forestry. I can’t wait to include this course in my curriculum and for my students to learn about a sustainable industry that is a huge contributor to their daily lives.” The development and implementation of this course is funded through the U.S. Forest Service Landscape Scale Restoration grant program, a State and Private Forestry competitive grant program that promotes collaborative, science-based restoration of priority forest landscapes and further priorities identified in State Forest Action plans or equivalent restoration strategies.

German wind turbine blade maker Voodin Blade Technology has announced the first-ever real installation of its wood-based blades on a wind turbine in Breuna, Germany. Source: Interesting Engineering These 63-foot (19.3-meter) long blades are made from laminated veneer lumber (LVL). This wood-based laminate material is considered more sustainable than existing fiberglass and other synthetic composites used to make wind turbine blades. More importantly, the blades should be easier to decommission and recycle once their lifespan expires. Since most wind turbine blades have a shelf life of around 20 to 25 years, replacing and disposing of older blades will be a big headache in the coming years. Currently, most wind turbine blades are buried at life’s end as the material they are made of cannot be readily recycled. For this reason, blades made from wood, like Voodin’s, could eliminate one of wind turbines’ major Achilles heel: the inherent issues of manufacturing and disposing of their blades. To this end, Voodin’s wooden blades could be the perfect solution to bolster wind turbine technology’s claimed green credentials. Composite materials, such as fiberglass and epoxy resin, cannot be reused, which results in wasted material after decommissioning. Wood, on the other hand, is a much more sustainable raw material. “At the end of their lifecycle, most blades are buried in the ground or incinerated. This means that at this pace we will end up with 50 million tonnes of blade material waste by 2050. With our solution, we want to help green energy truly become as green as possible,” says Tom Siekmann, CEO at Voodin Blade Technology. Voodin utilizes CNC milling machines that excel in creating intricate 3D shapes. As a result, the manufacturing process is highly automated, eliminating the need for molds in the production facilities. CNC milling technology also provides greater flexibility since it can be used to manufacture blades of any kind. Increasing the level of automation reduces the need for labor in manufacturing. As a result, manufacturing is no longer necessary in countries with lower labor costs. This could also open up the possibility of production being relocated closer to wind farms, leading to a reduction in transportation costs and emissions caused by transportation. Wood, particularly LVL, is a highly durable material that outperforms composite materials currently used in various industries. Voodin has conducted extensive laboratory testing to guarantee the material’s ability to withstand the harshest conditions in onshore wind energy production. “We have conducted hundreds of laboratory tests during the past two years to perfect the blade material. According to all our tests, our blades are even more durable than the existing fiberglass blades, as they show fewer fatigue characteristics and are proven to endure all kinds of onshore weather conditions extremely well,” explains Jorge Castillo, co-founder of Voodin Blade Technology. The company has installed the first set of prototype blades on an existing wind turbine near the city of Kassel in Breuna, Germany. The next step is to build bigger 197-foot (60-meter) and 263-foot (80-meter) blades.

Long-serving PNG forest industry leader, Bob Tate recently died in Port Moresby, aged 70, after suffering a short illness. A memorial mass was celebrated at the Koki United Church Port Moresby on 28 March 2024. Source: Friday Offcuts Born in Sydney, Bob Tate was well known across PNG, Australia, and the wider sector. From 1996, Mr Tate was the Executive Officer of the PNG Forest Industry Association (PNGFIA) and represented the Papua New Guinea forest industry, both nationally and internationally, on all issues impacting the sector (with his signature cigarettes and rum and coke drinks). He was a member and representative on many industry groupings, including the Commonwealth Forestry Association, National Climate Change Advisory Board, National Forest Board and the ITTO Trade Advisory Group. During 2004, Mr Tate, along with the Curator of the National Botanical Gardens and the head of the Office of Environment and Conservation, was instrumental in establishing the National School Tree Nursery Project ‘Trees for Survival’. A major revegetation project was undertaken with Port Moresby schools, which allowed school children and communities the benefit of studying environmental concerns, and, particularly, the vital role that trees play in the PNG ecosystem. Mr Tate is survived by his family; partner Betty Oauke-Tate, Tate brothers Allan and David, and sister Christen, and their extended families in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

The state government has defended its panel that will investigate the future of Victoria’s native forest estate but did not comment on its lack of bushfire expertise. Source: Philip Hopkins, Latrobe Valley Express The membership of the panel had been strongly criticised for its lack of a bushfire expert by a Latrobe Valley forest and business consultant, John Cameron. The Express also asked the government whether the panel would consider the report by the federal-state Major Event Review Panel that investigated the impact of the destructive 2019/20 fires on the Regional Forest Agreements. The panel, which submitted its report a year ago, made 36 recommendations on future forest policy but has received no reply from the state or federal government. A government spokesperson said the end of native timber harvesting presented new opportunities to improve forest management, balancing recreation and tourism for Victorians to enjoy time outdoors, while protecting the environment and supporting Traditional Owner self-determination. “The taskforce will play a critical role in engaging with Victorians to determine the best forest management practices, with each member bringing specialised knowledge from various fields such as environment, tourism, regional development, and outdoor recreation – ensuring a comprehensive consideration of all options during the consultation process,” the spokesperson said. “As part of this important work, the taskforce will consider a wide range of resources including the report from the Major Event Review Panel.” The government’s Great Outdoors Taskforce, led by the former Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lisa Neville, will consider the future management and use of state forest previously available for timber harvesting. Commercial native timber harvesting in Victoria ceased on 1 January 2024. The taskforce will work alongside the Eminent Panel for Community Engagement that is currently engaging with Victorians on the future management and uses of state forests in the Central Highlands. The taskforce has promised to widely consult with communities and stakeholders on the options to protect the environment and support recreational, social and commercial opportunities in the forests. This includes investigating opportunities for recreation and tourism such as camping, hunting, hiking, trail-bike riding and four-wheel driving. The work will be undertaken over the next 12 months and consultation details will be released in the coming weeks. Mr Cameron said wildfire was the single most important threat to the state’s 7.5 million hectares of native forest. “There is a clear need for a bushfire expert to be on the Great Outdoors Taskforce,” he said. More information here.

Nearly 250 hectares of trees will be planted, and the carbon outcomes researched as part of a new grant program supporting Tasmanian farmers. Private Forests Tasmania is excited to announce the recipients of a $450,000 co-investment to support farmers on private land in Tasmania to plant and grow more commercial trees on their properties.Source: Timberbiz The Stems for CO2 Program supported by the State Government’s Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania will directly support three Tasmanian farmers with upfront establishment costs to successfully integrate commercial trees into their agricultural enterprise. PFT Chief Executive Officer Dr Elizabeth Pietrzykowski said the successful applicants were chosen due to their demonstrated ability to meet the assessment criteria and program objectives of: Carbon modelling conducted on successful grant recipient properties that identifies the expected carbon abatement of the plantings for their deemed length of rotation. Successful establishment of commercial tree plantings that are integrated into the agricultural landscape. Communicate the carbon benefits of commercial trees to farmers, producers and landowners. PFT launched the grant on 2 February 2024 with applications closing in March. An independent assessment panel comprising of individuals with experience in carbon, forestry and agriculture assessed the applications received, with their recommendation going to the PFT Board for final approval. The three recipients who will establish about 249 hectares of commercial tree plantings are: The Tasmanian Government committed $10 million for new actions that will maintain Tasmania’s net-zero emissions status into the future in 2023 and $600,000 was awarded to PFT to deliver this program. “The marketplace is evolving rapidly with significant growth opportunities in carbon, natural capital and new timber products and services. A priority area for PFT is to demonstrate economic and environmental impact that planting the right tree in the right place can have for Tasmanian farmers,” Dr Pietrzykowski said. “Forestry can be a solution for sectors, like agriculture, where the market is demanding carbon neutrality throughout the supply chain, including Tasmanian farmers. “The Stems for CO2 program will allow us to gather some vital information and research to help us communicate the carbon outcomes and opportunities when commercial trees are integrated into whole-farm planning. “PFT through its expanded interactive Tree Alliance Knowledge Hub and strategic integrated farm forestry program will actively work to engage and educate Tasmanian landowners about the carbon benefits of planting trees.”

The Albanese Government has taken a key step in delivering an important $10 million election commitment in Forestry Workforce Training this week with the opening of tenders for the program’s delivery, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA), Diana Hallam said today. Source: Timberbiz “I thank Minister Murray Watt for his continued support of this great Australian industry through this important initiative.” Ms Hallam said. “The forestry industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia and like many sectors is struggling with capacity and skills in a tight labour market and this program will provide much needed support to ensure access to contemporary and specific training and credentials required for the workforce. “The suite of skills needed for a career in the forestry, wood, paper and timber industries is extensive and our capacity to supply skilled labour is being challenged. This challenge has been raised with me by every employer I have met, and we appreciate the Albanese Government’s assistance.” Australia’s forest and wood products industries supply the nation with vital building and construction materials, packaging and many essential household products – all are increasingly important for Australia as we move to replace plastics and decarbonise the economy. This diverse industry requires a specialised workforce and an issue faced by these industries is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is now searching for a service provider to deliver the Program through an approach to market in line with the recommendations of the Scoping Study. Assistant Secretary of Agvet Chemicals and Forestry, Julie Gaglia said identifying a preferred supplier through an open tender approach would support the delivery of the Program to ensure it meets the training needs of the forest, wood products, pulp and paper and fibre sectors. “The industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia, directly employing 52,000 people,” Ms Gaglia said. “Due to the remote location and ageing workforce, increased participation in the workforce by First Nations Australians and women will be increasingly important. “An issue often faced by the forestry industry is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce. “The selected service provider will work to support the delivery of skills and training to meet the requirements of Australia’s forest and wood products sectors and provide long-term sustainable solutions for industry and workers. “They will also provide solutions to structural impediments identified in the scoping study completed late last year.” Potential suppliers can submit a tender via AusTender now. The approach to market will close at 9:00 am on 28 May 2024. You can submit a tender here.

A total of 33 fire events were averted this fire season in the Green Triangle due to the sophisticated work of Australia’s largest network of smoke detection cameras with plans progressing to expand the infrastructure to cover more blackspot areas for future seasons. Source: Timberbiz The Green Triangle Fire Alliance’s (GTFA) network of 14 cameras, which provide a 360-degree scan of the landscape using AI technology, delivered 24-hour seven day a week observation across 1.3 million hectares of landscape, covering 10 local government areas. Operated by AI specialists Pano AI Pty Ltd, the cameras acted as the first point of detection before the human eye on several occasions and positively identified 24 planned fuel reduction burns for a total of 57 detections for the season. This was in addition to the detection of thousands of private permit burns late in the season. South-west Victoria’s seven cameras, which are located at Dergholm, Lake Mundi, Digby, Dartmoor, Rennick, Nelson and Hicks Hill, near Macarthur, successfully captured 14 unplanned blazes. South Australia’s seven cameras are located in Mt Benson, near Robe, Elad Road and The Bluff in Wattle Range, Furner, Mt Burr, and Carpenters Rocks. Green Triangle hardwood plantation companies ABP (Australian Bluegum Plantations), SFM and PF Olsen are among nine GTFA member companies which invested in the new technology to provide rapid detection and real-time intelligence to inform on-the-ground decision making for optimal use of fire resources. SFM chief operating officer Mike Lawson said the cameras had brought a new level of sophistication to fire management since being installed three years ago, supporting greater protection of the plantation estate, surrounding landholders, the broader environment and community. “These cameras have been instrumental in strengthening fire management across south-west Victoria and importantly we know that year on year these results are going to continue to improve as the AI becomes more sophisticated,” Mr Lawson said. “The cameras have been installed in blackspot zones in CFA (Country Fire Authority) Regions 4, 5 and 17 that were not well covered by traditional fire towers. The results, which are fed live to forest managers and fire authority digital devices, have been impressive with the cameras detecting fire up to six minutes before another detection source.” PF Olsen GT regional manager Andrew Matheson said the camera data, which was identifying fire up to 30km away, was shared directly to Victorian fire management authorities to support informed decision making and quick firefighting responses. “Fire detection in the region has been further strengthened by the plantation industry’s subscription to the Ororatech satellite fire detection service which is particularly useful overnight to support identification of overnight lightning strikes and burnt-out vehicles,” Mr Matheson said. “Matched together, this AI-camera and satellite technology provides an additional layer of coverage to ensure we are protecting our hardwood plantation estate, our agricultural neighbours and the broader community and environment.” ABP general manager operations Darren Shelden said it was critical to invest in more cameras to support the extensive fire tower network and mitigate the increasing risk of bushfire due to climate change. “Plantation companies have fully funded all the cameras in south-west Victoria. Four locations have been identified as new camera sites, including CFA towers at Mount Rouse and Mount Dundas and new sites at Tyrendarra and Nareen,” Mr Shelden said. “We are seeking to attract government support for this broader roll-out which will take the camera network to 11 in south-west Victoria.” Green Triangle Fire Alliance manager Anthony Walsh said the alliance looked forward to continuing strong collaboration with CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria to best use the new technology. “The Green Triangle Fire Alliance is proud of these excellent results and the outstanding effort of our more than 300 trained forest firefighters who work tirelessly alongside state agencies to keep our assets and broader region safe,” Mr Walsh said. “Our industry helicopter and new investment in floating collar tanks to supply water in areas with limited surface water have further increased the level of aerial firefighting capacity in the region, mitigating the risk of a large fire spreading.”

For a decade, the Victorian government-owned forestry controller VicForests has been a tinderbox of incompetence looking for a match. Gifted a near monopoly on Victoria’s forestry, it is my view that the organisation has failed to manage our timber industry. Too many forestry contractors working for VicForests broke the rules. From reports of logging outside allocations to logging old-growth forests, this has gifted activists’ solid legal pathways to halt harvesting and in turn, practically bankrupted the state-owned organisation. VicForests is yet another Victorian example of bureaucracy gone wrong. When they broke the rules, they lobbied the government to change them. When caught by activists, they employed private investigators to, according to the ABC, spy on them. When challenged in court they spent millions of taxpayer funds defending the indefensible. VicForests had so much rope they managed to hang themselves along with the state’s timber industry. One might ask where the state government was in all of this, considering the body charged with the industry oversight the, Office of Conservation Regulator, did not do enough to hold VicForests accountable… A cynic might believe the Green-Labor government was only too happy to watch the forestry industry vanish. I think VicForests should be shut down, but it shouldn’t take the industry with it. The state government, under new leadership, must go back to the drawing board on forestry. Timber is essential for the construction industry, our country’s manufacturing sovereignty and has the modern virtue of sequestrating massive volumes of carbon. The framework for successful forestry management already exists within the non-government Forestry Stewardship Council. The principals of the council are scientifically based, independently audited, and already cover 200 million hectares of forest globally. The state government, alongside the FSC, should set an allocation each year and let logging contractors bid for a license to harvest. Licensees would need to demonstrate ongoing compliance, with failure to do so resulting in suspension. The state government can provide a framework for the industry, issue and collect license fees, but should not have direct involvement in the business of forestry. If the result of accountability is reduced timber yield at a higher cost, let the market decide what it’s willing to pay. As it stands for manufacturers the price point of Victorian Ash is at least 30% less than the next comparable hardwood species. In practical terms that’s hundreds of millions in margin across the current allocation. Money which could go toward better forestry management, local jobs and saving the taxpayer. Marcus Bastiaan is a director at Specialty Doors

To say that the money spent on the Green Triangle’s network of smoke detection cameras was well spent is an understatement. That at least 33 fire events were averted in the most recent fire season is nothing short of amazing. The system also positively identified 24 planned fuel reduction burns for a total of 57 detections for the season as well as the detection of thousands of private permit burns late in the season. This meant fire brigades were not sent on time consuming wild goose chases. The Pano AI system was installed in south-east South Australia as part of the South Australian Government’s $2.346 million upgrade of the region’s fire tower network, with $1 million targeting the new technology. The program also received significant support and funding from forest industries. Spanning 14 locations – seven in the South East and seven in Western Victoria – Pano AI offers a comprehensive turnkey solution that integrates high-definition cameras, satellite feeds, artificial intelligence, and modern cloud software to detect and pinpoint new ignitions and alert fire professionals within minutes. The key to keeping fires small and limiting the impact on industry and the community is through rapid response and the world-leading actionable intelligence helps fire crews get to the scene faster and safer. “South Australia’s $1.4 billion forest industry has had a long and strong history of embracing cutting-edge technology and the implementation of Pano’s AI fire detection system continues this proud legacy,” South Australian Minister for Primary Industries, Regional Development and Forestry, Clare Scriven said last year. “Unfortunately, fire doesn’t recognise boundaries so this collaborative State Government/industry initiative in utilising this ground-breaking technology helps us to ensure the best fire management tools are at our disposal. This is a system that isn’t just for the benefit of the Green Triangle forest region but is a win-win for all other landscape users, primary producers and local communities,” she said. Of course, the Minister is dead right. And it’s the sort of technology that needs to be rolled out across the country. It’s relatively cheap, and will get cheaper, and it will in the long run save money, time, jobs, and most importantly, lives.  

The Gottstein Trust has two positions open for experienced forest and forest products industry members to join its Board of Trustees. The Trust is the national educational trust of Australia’s forest and forest products industry. Source: Timberbiz The purpose of the Trust is to create opportunities for people to acquire knowledge that will promote the interests of the Australian industries that grow and use sustainably managed forest resources. Through its annual granting of Scholarships, Fellowship and Skills Development grants, the Trust provides financial assistance for individuals across the forest and forest products industry. The aim of the Trust is to support individuals to gain knowledge and skills as well as developing domestic and international networks in ways that also advance our industry. The Trust also runs its well-established Wood Science and Forest Science courses. The Gottstein Trust is governed and administered by up to eight trustees, operating in a voluntary capacity, who have significant experience in the Australian forest and forest products industry. The Trust is seeking expressions of interests from experienced forest and forest products industry members to join its Board of Trustees. Some or all of the following skills would be well regarded: A capacity to promote and champion the Trust and its endeavours. Experience in governance. An awareness of industry research needs and emerging issues. Education or training experience. Fundraising, legal or communications expertise. Further information about the Trust can be accessed at www.gottsteintrust.org The Trust Deed is available under the ‘About Us’ section of the website. For further information about this position, please contact Suzette Weeding, Chair of the Gottstein Trust on 0439384736. If you would like to contribute to the important work that the Gottstein Trust undertakes forward Expressions of Interest consisting of a brief letter and CV to team@gottsteintrust.org The closing date is 20 May 2024.

Impress Communications has announced a tree-free paper made with 25% cotton and 75% bamboo. You read it right, this stock eliminates the need for trees to make paper. Source: Timberbiz The company says that the future of sustainable paper production is bamboo. Tree-free is FSC Certified, recyclable, biodegradable, compostable, and made using hydro-energy. Impress says that the quality of the paper is good and it provides a ‘ground-breaking’ solution with high quality fibres that provide a soft and smooth finish that is whiter and holds colour better than previous paper materials. Tree-Free is 18pt double uncoated cardstock, perfect for die-cutting, foiling, and embossing.

Waratah Forestry Equipment has unveiled the H216 a new two-roller head added to its 200 Series line-up. Built for hardwood, the H216 is strong enough to handle the toughest tree forms with accuracy and efficiency. Source: Timberbiz Its simple design with excellent feed power, delimbing, and large cut capacity provide productive tree harvesting. “The H216 is specially designed for hardwood,” said Brent Fisher, product marketing manager for Waratah. “This head not only provides our customers reliable performance in hardwood but is equally capable of handling softwood, debarking and everything in between.” Weighing in at 1495 kg, this 200 Series head features a two-roller design ideal for hardwood harvesting, late or final thinnings. Floating roller arms allow for superior and easy tree horizontal movement and easy log transport through the head. High performance single or multi-speed options keep timber moving quickly. The H216 features the efficient SuperCut 100S saw unit with improved auto tensioning and easier servicing. With large sawing capacity, this head can cut logs up to 750mm in diameter, while an optional top saw tackles heavy branching. The delimb arms provide excellent delimbing power across all diameter ranges, while drive wheel options offer maximum traction for crooked wood. The H216 harvester head utilizes the TimberRite H-16 control system for optimum head performance, productivity and measuring accuracy. The H216 is built to tackle the toughest, crooked timber to the straightest post wood and everything in between. While also naturally capable in softwood, debarking or multi-tree handling, this head is designed for efficiency and agility in thinning and harvesting applications with quick cycle times. A heavy-duty main chassis saw box, as well as tilt frame and guarding, provide added protection and reliability. Maintenance is simplified through one position daily servicing and easy open/close hinges on the valve cover. The Waratah H216 is available to customers in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, Brazil and Latin America.

Ponsse has won the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024 for its Opti 5G Information System. Source: Timberbiz Since 1954, the iF DESIGN AWARD has been an internationally recognised indication of excellent design and one of the world’s most prestigious design awards. The jury paid particular attention to the functionality and usability of the PONSSE Opti 5G information system. The user interface makes the forest machine operator’s work easier and produces other harvesting information, including operator working hours, production, machine operation and fuel consumption. “The Opti 5G system is designed to be easy to use to reduce the cognitive load of the forest machine operator and improve productivity. The user interface was completely rethought in our project to meet the users’ needs in the forest industry of today and the future. Design based on a user study and the large-scale testing of results are key factors behind the development of Opti 5G,” Juha Inberg, Chief Technology and R&D Officer at Ponsse said. “This award is for everyone who has participated in the software development of the 5G system.  Software development is almost always the result of the efforts of a large group of people. Software is at the core of modern forest machines to facilitate the use of the machine and make their operation more efficient. The user experience also plays an important role in improving efficiency, coping and comfort. Development at Ponsse focuses on understanding user needs.” A total of 10,800 products and projects from 72 different countries were sent to the 2024 competition for evaluation. This year’s iF jury consisted of 132 high-profile design specialists from 23 countries. “During the project, we addressed the needs of forest machine operators, machine owners, maintenance services and sawmills,” said UX Manager Panu Johansson. The award winners were celebrated at the iF DESIGN AWARD NIGHT 2024 event at Friedrichstadt-Palast in Berlin in Germany on Monday 29 April 2024.

Responsible Wood CEO Simon Dorries and Sustainability Manager Matt de Jongh took the stage at the Impact X Sydney Summit on 22-23 April, Australia’s premier gathering for climate and nature advocates. The summit, known for its call to action on urgent climate measures, presents an unparalleled opportunity to underscore the critical importance of certified sustainable forest management in combating climate change. Source: Timberbiz “It’s imperative that we amplify the message of certified sustainable forestry practices. Construction accounts for approximately 30% of global carbon emissions and sustainably grown timber products are the best short-term opportunity available at scale to reduce emissions in the construction sector.  Our attendance at Impact X reflects our unwavering commitment to driving positive environmental change,” Mr Dorries said. Mr de Jongh echoed these sentiments, emphasising the pivotal role of responsible supply chains in achieving sustainability goals. “At Responsible Wood, we recognise the interconnectedness of our actions with global environmental health. By promoting responsible sourcing and forest management, we contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come,” he said. The Impact X Sydney Summit’s focus on short-term action aligns perfectly with Responsible Wood’s mission. “We’re not just talking about lofty goals; we’re implementing tangible strategies for change,” Mr Dorries said. “This summit provides a platform for collaboration and innovation, essential components in our fight against climate change.” At the heart of Responsible Wood’s message lies the importance of collaboration. “We cannot achieve sustainability in isolation,” Mr Dorries said. “It requires a collective effort from governments, industries, and communities worldwide. Impact X offers a forum for forging alliances and sharing best practices.” Reflecting on the significance of their participation, Mr de Jongh said the their presence at Impact X underscored Responsible Wood’s leadership in sustainable forestry by engaging with stakeholders at such a prominent event. “We aim to leave a lasting impression,” Mr Dorries said. “Our goal is to ignite a spark of environmental consciousness and encourage others to join us in our mission for a greener, more sustainable future.” In conclusion, Responsible Wood’s presence at the Impact X Sydney Summit exemplifies their steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability.  

50 Years & Growing – Pan Pac Vol II 1993-2023 has been a few years in the making as the book was put on hold during the cyclone but the company has now published the second instalment in Pan Pac’s history. Source: Timberbiz 50 Years & Growing charts the company’s growth since 1993, along with the personalities, challenges and innovative solutions along the way. Pan Pac’s Pulp business has been supplying mechanical pulp (TMP) to the Oji Group for nearly 50 years, almost since Pan Pac was founded. In the forestry sector, Pan Pac is the largest forestry grower in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand owning around 35,000ha of forest, managing around 1.5 million tonnes of wood and exporting 400,000 tonnes of logs to China and other countries. In terms of lumber, Pan Pac is New Zealand’s largest producer of appearance grade lumber and exports its products to the US, China and other countries for use in windows, doors, mouldings and solid-wood furniture. You can download the book here.

WoodSolutions has launched a new EPD Database providing a carbon accounting roadmap for the building industry. Source: Timberbiz There is considerable discussion among governmental bodies, regulatory agencies, sustainability rating systems, and professionals within the industry regarding the emergence of ‘zero-carbon’ initiatives. These initiatives carry significant implications for the building and construction sector. Conversations are emerging surrounding various aspects such as material selection, the impact of embodied emissions, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) associated with both building materials and construction processes throughout the entire lifespan of structures. This entails a thorough examination of the carbon footprint at each stage of the building process, ranging from material extraction to eventual demolition and disposal. Addressing these inquiries necessitates comprehensive data on manufacturing emissions associated with building products and much of the world already uses this approach. In response, WoodSolutions has partnered with Thinkstep-ANZ to develop an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Database. This database consolidates pertinent information drawn from all publicly available EPDs for timber building products used in the Australian market, encompassing structural (both treated and untreated), aesthetic, and landscaping components manufactured in Australia and overseas. This hugely valuable database includes industry average EPD data as well as product specific data from individual publicly available company EPDs. It includes values for the fossil fuel emissions (GWP fossil) used in the production phase (Modules A1-A3), the biogenic carbon storage value (GWP biogenic) recognising the carbon sequestered in the wood, and a GWP-total value – which is these two values added together. This GWP-total value includes the biogenic carbon in forests as well as the fossil carbon emissions included in forestry practices, haulage, processing, kiln drying, planing, and packaging. This database is a major benefit for embodied emission data users in the building and construction industry, as all the embodied emission information for the major timber building products, used in the Australian market and that have EPDs, is now in one place and easily accessible. Industry professionals can now access detailed information on the environmental impact of key timber products and have more accurate knowledge to feed into their decision-making process. The database covers more than ninety products including structural timber products, internal appearance products, landscape products, and more. “This new resource from WoodSolutions is a huge win for the industry as it delivers crucial, consistent, and accurate data for timber and building products in use across the market,” said Kevin Peachey, Head of WoodSolutions. “This EPD database gives the building and construction industry the ability to calculate carbon emissions more holistically during the first three stages of the building process to help achieve sustainability ratings for projects.” The data base can be downloaded at https://mailchi.mp/woodsolutions/ws-epd-database

As the use of engineered wood products (EWP) continues to rise across Australia, so does concern over the impacts of non-conforming and incorrectly branded timber products being imported into the country. Source: Timberbiz The Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) has released a report that details the significant risks posed by use of non-conforming EWP, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), in residential, multi-residential and commercial building applications. The ‘Non-Conforming Timber Products Update 2024’ report calls for builders, retailers, and consumers to be wary, ask questions, and use due diligence on product claims, citing possible safety risks, poor product performance and potential reputational damage as negative outcomes for using non-conforming EWP. The only manufacturer of conforming LVL in Australia is Wesbeam in Western Australia. EWPAA’s Chief Executive Officer Gavin Matthew commented that while the majority of industry and the market was doing the right thing, a concerning amount of timber products that do not meet the requirements set out in standards and the National Construction Code was still entering the Australian supply chain. “It is widely acknowledged that imported timber products are necessary for a significant number of building applications and to meet market demand, yet we are consistently finding that some products do not conform or meet Australian standards or demonstrate the required evidence of suitability,” said Mr Matthew. “Products that are incorrectly labelled or not fit-for-purpose are entering the supply chain, which is concerning as non-conforming products represent significant safety risks for builders, consumers, and the industry as a whole.” In releasing this report, the EWPAA urges builders, consumers, and other supply-chain stakeholders to commit to using only conforming and fit-for-purpose products. This includes remaining vigilant, asking the right questions, and undertaking due diligence on product claims, branding and product information. You can download the report from the EWPAA website www.ewp.asn.au

The Hyne Group is expanding its pallet manufacturing arm following the acquisition of Rodpak in Melbourne by though the acquisition of Express Pallets and Crates (Express), based at Narangba near Brisbane. Source: Timberbiz Express has been in operation for some 35 years, under the ownership and leadership of Geoff Walton. Mr Walton will retain ownership of the Pro-Pine sawmilling operation, which will remain an important supplier of timber to the Express business. The acquisition by Hyne only involves the assets and trading business of Express Pallets & Crates. Express has a very broad and extensive client base, with significant long-term relationships across a range of market segments. This is compatible with the long-term partnership approach under which Hyne operates, and together with the skills and input from Hyne’s major Scottish shareholder, James Jones & Sons Ltd, Express Pallets & Crates has a great opportunity to continue to be a major supplier of pallets and crates to the Queensland market. Hyne Group CEO, Jim Bindon said it was pleasing to be able to continue to expand the Pallet Division by acquiring excellent quality businesses with their own legacies and strong market positions. “Being part of the Hyne Group and the broader James Jones & Sons global business, only enhances Express Pallets capability and credentials as a business partner to their many clients,” he said. “As was the case with the recent acquisition of Rodpak, it will be business as usual for the Express brand, staff, suppliers and customers, but with the strong backing and support of the Hyne Group. “The existing general manager, Tim Hoatson, will continue to lead the business, and together with the rest of the management team and indeed all the Express staff, we look forward to all their future contributions, and welcome them into the Hyne Group,” Mr Bindon said. Mr Walton said the sale of his company to a fellow long-standing Queensland family business was a pleasing outcome after many years of growing and expanding the business: “With the national and global position that the broader Hyne Group now has, this presents really good opportunities for all my team members, customers and suppliers, and I am confident the business will continue to succeed,” he said. The acquisition of Express Pallets & Crates will be completed on 1 July 2024 subject to all completion precedents being met.

Recent claims by activists, media, industry advocates and politicians about the existence or emergence of ‘forest wars’ is completely misleading and disrespectful, according to a veteran forester and conservationist, Rob de Fégely. Source: Latrobe Valley Express Mr de Fégely, a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), said the definition of ‘War’ is a state of armed conflict between countries or groups of people. “In the 50 years I have been studying and working in Australian forestry, there has never been any armed conflict in Australia’s forests!” he said. Mr de Fégely is a registered forestry professional, a director of Margules Groome Consulting P/L, chair of Sustainable Timber Tasmania and a director of Forestry Corporation of NSW. He emphasised that his comments are his personal comments and do not reflect the opinion of any of the entities he works for. Mr de Fégely said to describe a contentious debate and/or protest as warfare was not only misleading but an insult to people in the Ukraine, Middle East and any other parts of the world where communities are intimidated or threatened by armed force and conflict. “It is also a massive insult to our returned service personnel both past and present who have endured the horrors of real global conflicts and we will never know what they have endured and suffered as a result of their bravery,” he said. “However, I am in awe of how many carried their experiences stoically and bravely to make great contributions to build our wonderful economy and community on their return from active service. We owe them a lot.” Mr de Fégely said sadly, claims of ‘forest wars’ are designed to heighten outrage in caring but often uniformed communities. “It is an abuse of our language! Debate over how we use our natural resources to meet the twin demands of conservation and consumption for eight billion living people on our planet is important, but it needs to be respectful of the range of opinions and knowledge,” he said. “Everyone on Earth deserves three meals per day, to be well-clothed and housed, which means we need to produce food, clothing and housing materials somewhere on our planet. Avoiding impact is impossible.” Mr de Fégely said the challenge, particularly with wood production, is to develop a natural system with minimal inputs that has multiple benefits including conservation, recreation and production. “Australia’s trained foresters work hard to achieve this. Everyone loves wood, which is the perfect renewable as we can grow, harvest and regrow it in perpetuity and unlike wind turbines and solar panels, it does not require any mining of critical minerals to fulfil its functions,” he said. “Despite being the sixth most forested country in the world, Australia cannot supply its own demand for wood, so we rely on wood imports from forests overseas where harvesting standards are often far lower than ours.” Mr de Fégely said as we honour our returned service personnel this Anzac Day and reflect on the armed conflicts past and present, “I am tempted to say ‘Shame on you’, but I will simply say, ‘Show more respect!’