Australian timber industry news

An inspirational partnership between NTHA Training and Endeavour Foundation (based in Maryborough, Queensland), in conjunction with Community Solutions— Apprentices and Trainees, is providing crucial educational opportunities for people with disabilities in a supported work environment. Source: Timberbiz Conducted through the nationally recognised Certificate III in Timber and Wood Products Operations (Sawmilling), the initiative equips participants with valuable skills, while also opening doors to meaningful careers in the timber industry. ‘Supported Employment’ allows people with a disability to work in a commercial business with the help of onsite employment coaches and production team leaders. This assistance ensures employees can learn and develop new skills, while working towards their employment goals. The innovative program not only enhances job readiness but also fosters confidence and independence. By learning essential sawmilling operations, workplace safety, and environmental best practices, trainees gain hands-on experience tailored specifically to industry needs. Employment Coach, Jessica Dullaway, from Endeavour Foundation’s Business Solutions site in Maryborough, says, “it is an amazing opportunity for our supported workers to progress their career goals and increase skill development through the traineeship.” “We are so proud to be able to host this program onsite. Our employees were chosen for their established skills, acknowledging their intentions to transition towards Mainstream Employment – and we could not be more supportive,” Ms Dullaway added. NTHA Trainer Brad Cannell said NTHA Training is proud to work alongside Endeavour Foundation to create inclusive learning opportunities. “This special partnership ensures that individuals of all abilities have access to training that leads to sustainable employment,” he said. The initiative aligns closely with Endeavour Foundation’s mission in supporting people with disabilities in leading fulfilling lives. The program is already making a substantial difference, with trainees gaining newfound skills and securing meaningful roles in sawmilling operations. This partnership not only highlights the importance of inclusive training pathways, but proves that with the right support, everyone has the potential to succeed in the workforce. For more information on how NTHA Training in training and upskilling your team, contact us on 1800 822 621 or at info@ntha.edu.au

Leading companies in Australia’s timber construction sector have joined forces to launch the Future Framing Initiative, a groundbreaking collaborative program aimed at revolutionising the lightweight timber framed construction industry. Source: Timberbiz Under the governance of Forest & Wood Products Australia and leadership of newly appointed Project Management Committee, chaired by Ian Tyson, the FFI will focus on modernising timber design standards and strengthening the industry’s competitive position. The program addresses critical challenges facing the sector, including outdated timber design standards and increasing competition from steel framing and concrete slab-on-ground alternatives. Thirteen leading organisations have already committed to funding the initiative: AKD, Hyne Timber, Dindas Australia, Meyer Timber, MiTek, Multinail, Pentarch Forest Group, Pryda, Stora Enso Australia, Timberlink Australia, Timbertruss, Wesbeam, and Wespine. The program has also secured support from the University of Tasmania through a successful Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) research grant. “The FFI represents a unified response to market demands for simpler, more efficient building solutions,” says Ian Tyson. “Each percentage point of market share represents $27.5 million in annual revenue, making this initiative crucial for our industry’s future growth.” The program encompasses four key components: Research, Extension, Communications, and Technical Capacity Building. Initial efforts will concentrate on updating critical industry standards, particularly AS1684 Residential Timber Framed Construction, which hasn’t seen major revisions in over 25 years. Another FFI objective will be developing a new FWPA Industry Standard for Lightweight Timber Framing Design & Construction for mid-rise Buildings, aiming for inclusion in the National Construction Code 2028. The initiative will serve various building types, including detached homes, townhouses, schools, aged care facilities, and apartments. The FFI also addresses the critical need for technical expertise in succession planning for the industry. The program, that started in February 2025, will recruit and train new technical representatives to ensure valuable industry knowledge is preserved and passed on to the next generation of industry champions.

Vollebak has created a wooden jacket prototype, a fashion piece with a hood made of flexible timber arranged in tiny grids. The wooden jacket is complete with zippers and two exterior pockets. There’s also a hood, also made of timber. From afar, the Vollebak prototype looks like a tree trunk or a freshly varnished plank. Sources: Design Boom, Timberbiz The design team captured the look of a tree’s growth rings all over the prototype. They also reposition the timber grids so that these natural wood lines are not uniform or don’t look all horizontal or vertical. So far, Vollebak’s Wooden Jacket is still a prototype. There’s no news yet on when it will launch The company says it went ahead with the experiment because turning a tree into a jacket is an absurdly difficult technical challenge. It’s all about the technical feat vs the performance advantage of the material. It builds innovation muscle as it’s just so hard. It’s the equivalent of Daniel-San and Mr Miyagi practising the crane kick on the beach in The Karate Kid with no opponent in sight The design team embeds the cut-up slabs of timber onto a fabric, which makes up the interior of the jacket. In this way, the clothing can freely move and isn’t stiff. On the breast part of the fashion piece, there are two semi-hidden zippers on both sides. They can be extra pockets for the users, just above the two ample exterior ones. Visible lines divide the Vollebak’s Wooden Jacket prototype. These allow for the material to bend and be flexible when the users move around and stretch. The design team has yet to unveil the technical details of the Wooden Jacket. So far, they say that the prototype is a way for them to tackle and then solve what would otherwise remain ‘completely theoretical.’

The Finnish forest products sector plays a crucial role in the global pulp, paper, and forest products market. Its unique landscape is shaped by sustainability objectives, evolving market dynamics, and international regulations. Source: ResourceWise Understanding and staying up to date on what’s going on in various regions is crucial to staying competitive. Below is a high-level overview of different elements shaping the Finnish market. The Finnish forest industry is experiencing mixed economic conditions. The sector has seen an increase in sawn softwood production, with a 4% year-on-year growth in 2024. Metsä’s Kemi pulp mill has been ramping up, keeping the wood markets busy. Exports have also strengthened, and roundwood purchasing volumes have risen by 17%. However, the market remains volatile. Despite increased production, profitability is still fragile due to higher costs and price pressures. Stora Enso’s packaging board investments are ongoing in Oulu, putting more pressure on the roundwood market in the long term. At the same time, Finland’s economy is expected to recover slowly, with GDP growth projected at only 0.8% in 2025 after contracting in 2024. But the broader economic uncertainty in the Eurozone and the US trade policies may continue impacting Finnish forest product exports. Finland’s ambitious target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 faces increasing challenges. According to recent reports, Finnish forests, which traditionally served as carbon sinks, have turned into carbon sources since 2021. Factors such as rising logging rates, emissions from drained peatland forests, and reduced soil carbon sequestration have contributed to this shift. Additionally, about 90% of Finland’s tree growth is now consumed by logging and natural mortality, a significant increase from earlier decades. This reality raises concerns about the feasibility of offsetting other sector emissions through forest carbon sinks alone. The European Union’s Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF) regulations pose further pressure on Finland. If the country fails to meet carbon sequestration targets, it may have to purchase emission allowances, adding financial strain. Many EU nations also struggle with these targets, so the regulatory landscape remains uncertain. Several major companies in the Finnish forest industry are undergoing organizational changes. Stora Enso has reported EUR 724 million in non-cash impairments due to reduced long-term cash flow projections. Metsä Board is shutting down the Tako Board Mill in Tampere, impacting 215 jobs while expanding capacity at its Husum mill in Sweden. On a brighter note, investments in sustainability-focused financing are ongoing. Metsäliitto Cooperative has recently obtained a EUR 200 million revolving credit facility linked to sustainability goals. This credit underscores the organization’s dedication to environmentally friendly operations. Bioenergy continues to be a critical component of Finland’s renewable energy strategy. The share of wood dry matter used for energy has steadily increased, reaching 61% in 2023. Most of this comes from forest industry by-products such as bark, black liquor, and recycled wood. However, the market for energy wood is showing signs of cooling. Milder winter temperatures have led to lower consumption at heating plants, increasing stockpiles. Additionally, energy companies’ investments in electric boilers and heat pumps may reduce the future demand for wood-based energy sources. Despite these challenges, Finland remains a major bioenergy consumer, with bioenergy accounting for 38% of its total energy consumption and 74% of its renewable energy use. Future Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities The Finnish forest industry faces a complex landscape of regulatory pressures, shifting energy demands, and economic headwinds. While increased bioenergy adoption and wood product exports offer opportunities, concerns over carbon neutrality, rising costs, and market volatility remain significant hurdles.

CBI has launched its ChipMax 364T Whole Tree Chipper, an industrial woodchipper built from the ground up with input from forestry and wood waste professionals. Source: Timberbiz Designed to excel in real-world applications, including land clearing, biomass production, pulp and paper, forestry and wood processing, mulch production, and landscaping, the ChipMax 364T is a solution for operators seeking high-performance chipping with low maintenance costs. Powered by either a 755hp or 550hp engine, the ChipMax 364T Whole Tree Chipper features an improved chute geometry, enhancing chip throw for more efficient trailer packing. A standard chip accelerator optimizes performance by providing consistent output across varying chip sizes. Additionally, the service platform next to the engine provides a convenient space for routine maintenance, simplifying oil checks and upkeep for operators. The ChipMax 364T also offers flexibility with two rotor options alongside the innovative CBI rotor design, which allows for quick and easy rotor swaps. This makes it simple to adjust chip sizes for operators to produce a range of materials as needed, from consistent micro-chips to larger 30mm chips, catering to diverse market demands. “From design to execution, the ChipMax 364T Whole Tree Chipper embodies simplicity and reliability,” said George Wilcox, Sales and Marketing Director at CBI. “We’ve listened to the needs of our customers and created a machine that maximizes efficiency while keeping operations straightforward and cost-effective.”

Lodgepole pine – a wilding conifer considered one of New Zealand’s worst weeds has evolved to grow and spread faster there than it does in its native North America. Source: Timberbiz A Scion study, the focus of a New Zealand Journal of Ecology article seeks to understand why, to help inform strategies for addressing the problem. This study is part of Scion’s Vive la résistance program, which started in 2021 and has NZ$12.85 million in funding through the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour fund. The study investigated cone and seed traits of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) from several major invasion sites across NZ compared with its native range. The comparison across six sites showed the average number of filled seeds per cone was 74 – at least three times higher than that recorded in its native range and about 50% higher than previous NZ estimates. Scion’s researchers predict this increase in the number of seeds has likely enhanced the invasion success of lodgepole pine by allowing it to spread quickly and overwhelm ecosystems. “The average number of seed scales per cone is similar between NZ and the native range,” Scion invasion ecologist and article lead author Tom Carlin says. “Therefore, we suggest this trait shift towards a greater seed holding capacity may be due to an increase in the proportion of fertile scales. “This demonstrated trait shift is unsurprising given lodgepole pine has fewer natural enemies in New Zealand, thrives in our growing conditions and has potentially produced more invasive hybrids since its introduction.” Some sites were found to have produced fewer seeds, such as Craigieburn near Christchurch, where the national wilding conifer control program has had some success in removing pollen-producing individuals. “Keeping the number of pollen-producing adults low slows population spread as seeds don’t get fertilised,” Mr Carlin says. In North America, lodgepole pine has specialist seed predators such as squirrels and crossbills which put pressure on cone defences. Those predators are not present in NZ, which could have allowed the trees to dedicate more resources to producing seeds rather than investing in cone defences. Lodgepole pine is not a forestry species in NZ and is not actively planted. Wilding conifers (non-natives) are estimated to affect over 1.7 million ha of productive and conservation lands in NZ (Ministry for Primary Industries, 2015, p.9). Their rapid growth and spread poses a significant threat to ecosystems worldwide by outcompeting native species, increasing fire risk, supporting invasive mammal populations, reducing water yields and limiting future economic land uses. Scion’s VLR program works alongside New Zealand’s National Wilding Conifer Control Program (NWCCP), which aims to contain and eradicate wilding conifers and prevent their future spread. Existing populations of wildings are being treated but cleared land is being re-invaded. For the NWCCP to be successful it is critical to develop effective strategies to create long-term resistance to re-invasion on treated land. Scion scientists Matthew Scott and Thomas Paul co-authored the journal article.

Temporary housing for people displaced by natural disasters could become cheaper, lighter and more sustainable with innovative new timber-cardboard construction panels developed by University of Queensland researchers. Source: Timberbiz The panels are 50% lighter than a previous design but retain the same strength, according to a new paper by structural engineering PhD candidate Mahmoud Abu-Saleem and Associate Professor Joe Gattas, both from UQ’s School of Civil Engineering. Dr Gattas said extensive use of cardboard reduces the cost and environmental impact of the panels, meaning builders of temporary housing are less exposed to the shortages and soaring costs of traditional construction materials. “Cardboard is one of the most highly recycled materials for packaging in Australia,” he said. “There’s no impact on waste generated and no increase in resource consumption. You’re essentially extending the service life of that material before it gets recycled again.” The timber-cardboard web-core sandwich (TCWS) panels consist of thin timber facings separated by cardboard studs and air pockets. They were introduced in the research paper as a development of timber-cardboard sandwich (TCS) panels, which featured a solid monolithic cardboard core. Lab testing found the TCWS panels were 50% lighter than the TCS panels and just as strong, or stronger, for their weight. The TCWS panels were also 33% stronger than similar foam or bio-based panels. Dr Gattas said introducing the air gap helped reduce the weight, so two people can comfortably handle the panels. “The panels are intended for short-term use, possibly for temporary housing or granny flats for people displaced by natural disasters,” he said. “The fact they are lighter means they will be easier to lift and fit together quickly in a post-disaster scenario, where temporary structures are in high demand. “We need systems that suit short-term use cases as there’s a lot of need for this class of accommodation in Australia, and internationally.” The panels have been used in a prototype ‘cardboard house’ constructed at UQ’s Pinjarra Hills Research Facility and have held up well to the wet Queensland summer. The researchers have kept the elements at bay by incorporating the same principles used for timber-clad homes – including substantial eaves, often seen on iconic Queenslander-style homes. Mr Abu-Saleem said while replacing some of the monolithic cardboard in the TCS with the air gaps reduced the weight, this could also reduce the insulation effectiveness of the panels. “This could be addressed in future by adding another waste material like paper into the air gaps to improve their insulation properties,” he said. The research paper is published in Structures.

The bushfire came within 30m of this Huon pine (centre), which is estimated to be around 3,000 years old. Source: Timberbiz, photo Micah Visoiu A 3000-year-old Huon pine and several high-conservation stands of ancient trees have been confirmed to be intact and undamaged by the bushfires impacting Tasmania’s rugged West Coast. Minister for Parks, Nick Duigan, said these bushfires have been devastating for the West Coast, but this news will provide some relief. “A team of natural values specialists from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania conducted an aerial assessment of impacts of the Yellowband Creek bushfire, and were relieved to see the trees intact,” Mr Duigan said. The assessment consisted of a low-level helicopter flight of the length of the Harman and Wilson Rivers to observe impacted vegetation. NRE Tas Senior Ecologist Steve Leonard said the inspection confirmed the main Huon pines along both rivers remained intact. “The only impacts on Huon pine observed were a handful of scorched trees on the lower Harman River, which are outside of the main Huon pine stand. There is also a reasonable chance that these trees will survive,” Dr Leonard said. Across the Yellowband Plain fireground, rainforest boundaries have held, meaning impact to the rainforest is minimal. “We were pretty excited after flying through the landscape to come to this island of intact forest and see these magnificent old trees,” Dr Leonard said. “These Huon pine forests have immense conservation significance, so their survival through this bushfire is a great outcome.” Dr Leonard said the forests had managed to hold on in the landscape until now because they occur in areas of natural fire refuge. “However, we can’t just rely on natural fire protection, and we’ve seen as part of the current response is that actions like water bombing, retardant drops and sprinkler lines can be very effective in bolstering natural refuges and preventing fire impacts to these significant natural values.” One tree in the Harman River stand is about 3000 years old, and it is likely a number of other trees in the stand are a similar age. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service State Fire Manager Katy Edwards said water bombing had been used to bolster the natural fire protection of the stand. “PWS fire crews have used the latest technology available to tackle the current bushfires. Our strategy remains focused on early detection and rapid response,” Ms Edwards said. “We use state-of-the art remote cameras units coupled with satellite technology to detect dry lightning strikes and monitor for hotspots. We also conduct planned burns to reduce the risk of bushfires and help preserve ecosystems across our reserve estate. “Planned burns in the West Coast area over recent years have proven effective at containing the edges and slowing the spread of a number of the current fires. Our winch crews have also been invaluable in getting into more remote fires quickly to contain their spread.” Mr Duigan commended Parks teams on their efforts to preserve these areas of high conservation value. “I’d like to thank the fire crews incident management teams and all of our support staff right across all three agencies – Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, Tasmania Fire Service and Sustainable Timber Tasmania. Our thoughts remain with everyone involved, we appreciate your dedication and commitment to the ongoing response,” Mr Duigan said.

University of Queensland studies have used a natural tree sap gum and light to extend the shelf life of fresh fruit and vegetables to combat food waste. Source: Timberbiz The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI) research used edible coatings made from gum Arabic or acacia gum enriched with extracts from native Australian plants to stop the growth of spoilage causing microorganisms. The research team also used light and curcumin, a compound extracted from turmeric, to deactivate fungal spores on food. QAAFI’s Dr Maral Seididamyeh said both methods were effective in keeping food fresh for longer. “Using our edible coating, we were able to prevent the growth of spoilage microorganisms in freshly cut capsicum for around 10 days in the fridge,” Dr Seididamyeh said. “This was mostly due to the organic acids and phenolic compounds found in the aqueous extracts of plants like Cape York lilly pilly, boonjee tamarind, and Tasmanian pepper leaves. “These extracts showed promising antimicrobial properties, and the sensory analysis also revealed the fruit looked and smelt better. “The curcumin-based photosensitisation technique completely deactivated the fungal spores responsible for grey mould in fresh produce. “When applied to strawberries, it reduced decay incidence and severity by 20% without compromising the fruit’s colour or firmness.” Dr Seididamyeh said chemical-free methods for preventing food spoilage were in demand. “Bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are becoming resistant to synthetic chemicals used to preserve food,” Dr Seididamyeh said. “Consumers are increasingly favouring products made with natural preservatives over synthetic additives.” Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ data showed 17% of food was lost to spoilage and other issues at retail outlets and in homes. “The research results are promising but more work is needed especially since photosensitisation is a relatively new concept in the food industry,” Dr Seididamyeh said. “Photosensitisation is already used in medicine through photodynamic therapy to destroy abnormal cells in treatment for cancer and precancerous conditions. “The edible gum coating, embedded with extracts from native Australian foods and leaves, and curcumin are currently quite expensive. “To help make this a mainstream solution further funding will be needed to refine the technology for its integration into commercial packing and processing lines.” The research was funded by Hort Innovation, the Department of Primary Industries and the Australian Research Council. The research was published in the Journal of Food Science, Food Control and Foods, and the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.

The Tasmanian Timber Webinar Series is a must-attend for professionals in architecture, construction, design, and manufacturing, offering expert insights into Tasmania’s sustainable timber industry.  There are three in the series starting on 5 March. Source: Timberbiz Hosted by Mick Lee, a leader in the timber industry with more than 30 years of experience, the series explores key aspects of Tasmanian timber resources, sustainability, certification, and product applications. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge about Tasmania’s responsibly managed forests, the role of plantation timber in construction, and advancements in engineered wood products. The series will also delve into environmental management, certification processes, and the sustainable harvesting of native and plantation timbers. Additionally, participants will receive comprehensive information on Tasmanian timber species, their unique properties, and the technical resources available to support their use in various applications. This series is essential for those seeking to make informed decisions about sustainable, local timber in their projects. Tasmanian Timber: Products, Availability, Technical Information, and Our Resources – 5 March. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse range of Tasmanian timber products, their availability, and essential technical information. Attendees will gain insights into various species, exploring their unique properties and the vast selection of applications. The webinar will also highlight valuable resources such as brochures, factsheets, flooring guides, and installer support, all available on the Tasmanian Timber website. This session is vital for industry professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge of Tasmanian timber products and resources, enabling them to make informed decisions in their projects. Register here. Sustainability and Certification: Environmental management, native forests and old growth forests – 2 April. This session will aim to deepen specifiers understanding of sustainable forest management practices in Tasmania. The webinar will delve into the Tasmanian Forest Practices System, which governs all forestry operations on both public and private lands, ensuring sustainable management across the state’s forest estate. Participants will gain insights into the certification processes that align with internationally recognised standards, ensuring that species sourced and processed in Tasmania from certified native forests and plantations are sustainably managed. This session is essential for industry professionals committed to sustainable building practices, offering valuable knowledge on environmental management and the certification processes that uphold the integrity of Tasmania’s native and old growth forests. Register here. The future of the Plantation timber resource – 7 May Attendees will learn about the availability of plantation timber products, both current and upcoming, that are shaping the future of construction. The webinar will feature expert speaker Michael Lee, who brings more than 30 years of industry experience, with a deep understanding of quality control, technical production, and sustainable innovation. Michael’s expertise has driven groundbreaking advancements in the use of plantation eucalypts for cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (GLT). This session is a must-attend for builders, designers, and architects passionate about sustainable building practices that benefit both the environment and the community. Participants will gain valuable insights into sustainable building practices and the future of plantation timber in construction. Register here.

UPM Timber has launched a carbon storage calculator on its website. With the carbon storage calculator, wood industry professionals, UPM Timber’s customers and consumers can easily calculate the amount of carbon sequestered in wood raw material and examine its climate impacts. Source: Timberbiz “The carbon storage calculator provides the user with a clear measure of the emissions that have been generated by the production and transportation of the wood raw material needed for a specific project. “It also provides a clear measure of the carbon that has been stored when the project is completed. The tool brings the climate impact of our raw material choices closer to everyday life, helping us all make more sustainable decisions,” said Antti Koulumies, Vice President, UPM Timber. Wood is an excellent building material due to its renewability, durability, and carbon sequestration capacity. Using wood as a building material significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions compared to materials that require more fossil fuels in their production. In Finland, the new building law, which came into effect at the beginning of 2025, aims to promote emission reduction and the circular economy. From 2026 onwards, the initiator of a construction project must demonstrate the origin of the building materials, the amount of energy used in their production and transportation, and the emissions they cause. UPM Timber’s carbon storage calculator helps the user to better understand the role of sawn timber as a long-term carbon storage. “The foundation of UPM’s strategy is to create value for society – both as a responsible company and through renewable and sustainable solutions. UPM Timber’s carbon storage calculator defines one approach of value creation, the carbon dioxide stored in wood products,” said Sami Lundgren, Vice President, Responsibility at UPM. UPM Timber aims to be a frontrunner in environmental responsibility in its industry, and thanks to fossil-free production, UPM Timber’s emissions are already quite low. The new carbon storage calculator is part of UPM Timber’s continuous effort to increase transparency in the value chain and provide its customers with tools to promote sustainability.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests (IDF) in 2012. The Day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests. Source: Timberbiz On each International Day of Forests, countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns. The theme for each International Day of Forests is chosen by the Collaborative Partnership on Forests. In 2025, forests and foods is the theme for the day, celebrating the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods. In addition to providing food, fuel, income and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources, and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators. They are essential for the survival of forest-dependent communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, and contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon. FAO is also proudly celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2025 and FAO International Day of Forests events will mark this occasion by showcasing actions and best practices that promote a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food.

The Seppi H3 flail mulcher has been a reliable partner for excavators weighing between 2 and 5 tons for years. The new H3 direct version offers even more efficiency with lower hydraulic power requirements, along with increased operational safety and flexibility for your excavator. Source: Timberbiz The H3 direct has been specifically developed for excavators with a hydraulic flow of 25-60 l/min. The main difference from the standard H3 mulching head lies in the direct drive: the gear motor of the H3 direct is directly coupled to the rotor, ensuring higher operational safety and less maintenance. No breakdowns due to wear-related belt failure! Additionally, the H3 direct features the drainless system, meaning no oil return line is needed. This makes machine conversions easy and simplifies usage on various mini excavators in the fleet. Robust construction: The housing of the H3 direct is made of wear-resistant AR400 steel, ensuring durability and resilience. The reduced weight and robust design relieve the excavator’s hydraulic system, concentrating hydraulic power on the mulching tool for better work results. Versatility and flexibility: The H3 direct is ideal for occasional mulching or use on multiple excavators without the need for complex modifications. The DRAINLESS system ensures no oil return line is required, making it perfect for businesses using multiple mini excavators. Clean cut: The SMW flail ensures a very clean cut and mulches grass and shrubs with a diameter of up to 3 cm effortlessly. Comfortable operation: The direct drive of the H3 direct ensures particularly high operational safety. The motor is directly coupled to the rotor, eliminating breakdowns caused by wear-related belt failure – ideal for more intensive applications in remote locations. Compact and lightweight: The H3 direct mulching head is lightweight, reducing the load on the excavator. This allows efficient work without overloading the hydraulic system and stability of the excavator. Easy handling: The floating mounting system and the reinforced, adjustable support roller ensure precise ground guidance, allowing for accurate mulching work in various operational areas. Working width: 60-85 cm [25”-33”] – ideal for mini excavators and tight work areas Hydraulic requirements: The H3 direct model requires a hydraulic flow of 25-60 l/min and is powered by a gear motor.

Germany’s tissue industry is at a crossroads. While technological advancements have driven capacity growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11% since 2007, the sector is grappling with a volatile economic and energy landscape. Unlike other German manufacturing sectors that dominate headlines such as the auto industry tissue production faces its own unique challenges. Source: ResourceWise With higher energy costs, inflation-driven labour demands, and the costly transition to green energy, German tissue manufacturers are redefining their approach to production, trade, and market positioning. But where does the industry stand today? And what does the future hold? The German tissue market is shaped by an evolving consumer base. While there is a growing preference for high-quality, soft, and hygienic tissue products, economic uncertainty has led many consumers to shift towards private labels and value-driven purchasing. This results in a contradictory demand for both high-end and budget-friendly products, complicating demand forecasting. At the same time, Germany’s population growth is slowing, with a projected decline of 0.12% in 2024, raising long-term concerns about sustained domestic consumption. However, GDP per capita is on the rise, signalling increased spending power at least for some segments of the market. Despite the challenges, Germany’s tissue trade has remained stable over the past 17 years. Poland has emerged as the largest source of tissue imports, with key suppliers located near Germany’s borders, including Austria, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden. On the export side, many of these same countries are also key destinations for German tissue products. Germany’s tissue industry maintains a near-balanced import-to-export ratio, with trade volumes making up about 40% of the sector’s total capacity. Yet, with rising operational costs, this balance could shift in the coming years as neighbouring producers gain competitive advantages. Unlike some of its European counterparts, Germany has taken a cautious approach to tissue production expansion. Instead of rapid capacity increases, the industry has focused on incremental machine upgrades and optimization of existing mills. By 2027, only two net new machines are expected to be added, with no new mills on the horizon. While Germany benefits from a high proportion of fibre integration, its energy-intensive production model and carbon emission challenges put it at a competitive disadvantage. Sweden, for example, enjoys lower production costs due to its reliance on biomass energy, while Germany continues to face high electricity costs and emissions penalties. In a competitive European landscape, German manufacturers must balance cost pressures with sustainability goals. The industry is already exploring alternative energy sources such as hydrogen, but without improvements in electric grid costs and carbon efficiency, Germany risks losing ground to lower-cost producers. For a deeper dive into Germany’s evolving tissue market, its competitive positioning, and what’s next for the industry, download our report, “Understanding Trends and Challenges in German Tissue Production.”

US Forest Service Chief Randy Moore will retire effective 3 March, according to an email sent to agency staff Wednesday and viewed by POLITICO. Source: Politico Mr Moore wrote in his staff email that the past several weeks have been “incredibly difficult” due to the Trump administration’s mass layoffs, which have led to 3,400 Forest Service employees or 10% of agency staff being fired. “As you have likely read in the news or are personally experiencing, the federal government is undergoing a significant transformation,” Mr Moore said. “As part of a broader effort to reduce the size of the federal government, we parted ways with colleagues we worked alongside, who successfully contributed to our mission, and who were valued members of our Forest Service team.” Mr Moore, who has led the agency that manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands since 2021 and became the first African American to serve as chief, is capping off a 45-year career with the Forest Service. He took over the agency from Vicki Christiansen, the Forest Service chief during President Donald Trump’s first term. Lawmakers and officials from Western states have warned that President Donald Trump’s cuts to agencies like the Forest Service and funding freezes will threaten critical prevention and mitigation work, leaving the region woefully unprepared for the coming wildfire season. Mr Moore told staff Wednesday that their work protecting communities, enhancing small businesses, providing drinking water and issuing energy permits is “vital to the American way of life.” “I have been silent these last few weeks because these decisions are being made at a level above our organization, and I was and am learning about the changes the same time as many of you,” Mr Moore wrote. “Our focus now is on how we respond and adapt to new priorities and continue delivering on our mission with the workforce we have.” Before serving as chief, Mr Moore served as regional forester in the Pacific Southwest region in California, where he oversaw 18 national forests. He also served as regional forester for the Eastern region headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His career started in conservation in 1978 with the Agriculture Department’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in North Dakota. President Trump has nominated Michael Boren, an Idaho investment consultant and GOP donor, to serve as USDA’s undersecretary for natural resources and environment a position that requires Senate confirmation and oversees the Forest Service.  

The largest wooden beam by volume in Australia arrived in Adelaide at the new aquatic centre worksite. Source: Timberbiz, photo Dept of Transport and Infrastructure Twenty glulam beams and 32 glulam columns manufactured by Hess Timber, weighing more than 143 tonnes combined, arrived in Adelaide this week. Police escorted the beams, for the new $135m Adelaide Aquatic Centre, through Adelaide’s streets late at night to avoid causing traffic disruptions. The State Government said the materials were so large they had to be specially milled in Austria because the Australian timber industry was unable to manufacture such massive beams. They were transported to Belgium and shipped to Melbourne, before being transported by trucks to Adelaide under police escort in early February. The Advertiser reported that biggest beam was 22.85 cubic metres and weighed 10,282kg – the largest by volume in Australia. Several of the beams are 37m long. The longest glulam beams ever brought into Australia, again produced by Hess, at 42m were brought into Australia in 2021 for the Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre in Mount Gambier. Infrastructure Minister Tom Koutsantonis told The Advertiser the government had been at pains to build the centre with locally sourced, low-carbon emission materials, but there was not local capacity to produce such large beams. Construction at the North Adelaide centre will increase next week while the timber is installed along with more than 200 roofing panels. The centre will be powered by 100% renewable energy. It will include water slides, a gym and fitness centre, and a sauna and steam room.

The Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group (TFAG) in New Zealand met for the fifth time last week and members had one of their most important conversations yet. TFAG was created in August 2024 by Forestry Minister Todd McClay to accelerate the woody debris clean-up in Tairāwhiti after Gabrielle and look at ways to mitigate future risk. Source: Timberbiz Members include representatives of Gisborne District Council (GDC), forestry contractors, farmers, iwi and Eastland Wood Council, represented by chair Julian Kohn. Mr Kohn said some of the conversation last week was whether TFAG should contribute financially to the harvesting cost of forestry companies, who have pine trees on land that’s been classed as 3B Overlay by GDC (steep erosion-prone land that has a connection to a waterway). The intention is these areas have a land use change away from forestry to permanent native tree cover, or a mixture of exotics and natives. But until then, some of this steep hill country land is already covered in pine trees that should be harvested. There are increased costs of getting the wood out of these areas as it takes crews longer to extract the trees and they must be more careful. “TFAG helping to get these trees down is something to seriously consider.” Mr Kohn said the idea was posed to see if there was an appetite for TFAG to work with forest companies who have upcoming harvests on areas marked as 3B Overlay (provided there were no existing enforcement orders in place). “The issue is that harvesting these 3B areas, would create a bit more slash and sediment for a period of time. “And if the forestry company thinks they will get penalised for it by Council under resource consent conditions, then the forest company could decide to walk away and not harvest the pine trees. “Those pine trees would then be there until we got another Bola or Gabrielle. One day some of those trees would fall, and they would clog the waterways. “This is a situation nobody wants. “If we want to see land use change and improve vegetation on the whenua then it makes sense to get rid of those trees where we don’t want them now, while we’ve got the roads in there and the contractors.” Kohn said aerial mapping of the region had been completed with the imagery of “exceptional quality”. “Ultimately these images will be available to the public, however right now GDC is processing the raw data so it can be analysed.” From there TFAG would be able to zoom in on the images and have the detail to identify where the woody debris, trees and logs in the waterways are, as well as other areas seen as risky, and then the work would be prioritised, along with discussions with landowners. Logic Forest Solutions has been appointed as the Operation Manager to carry out the woody debris removal work led by Bill Wheeler and Ben Williams. Mr Kohn said part of the kaupapa from Minister McClay for TFAG was they get inside the forest gate, work with the managers of the forestry companies when the time comes and get upstream to have a look. “There’s no point cleaning up the bottom of the stream if the top has more wood and sediment to come down in the next extreme weather event.”  

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has published a new draft Code of Practice, to assist industry to improve safety outcomes in the transport of logs from forest to mill or port. Source: Timberbiz The new Log Haulage Industry Code of Practice (LHC) provides guidance for businesses involved at every level of the forest log haulage task. Acting Chief Safety and Productivity Officer Paul Sariban said the draft LHC was developed in collaboration with the Australian Forest Products Association and the Australian Forest Contractor’s Association, along with industry representatives and stakeholders who contributed their resources, experience and expertise. “The LHC is a practical guide of interest to anybody who conducts business in the forestry sector. It supports parties in the Chain of Responsibility to understand and meet their primary duty and other obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL),” Mr Sariban said. “Consulting with industry associations and stakeholders in the creation of the new LHC was key in allowing us to properly understand how the industry’s operations are conducted, identify any hazards and document or develop effective control measures to eliminate the risks they may cause.” The new Code will be available for public feedback for the next 8 weeks. All feedback received from any stakeholder within the logging sector will be considered by the NHVR as part of the assessment process to determine whether the Code is suitable for registration. Mr Sariban said the new LHC was relevant to anyone who or whose business: owns a forestry area where logs are harvested harvests or stockpiles logs for transport loads, operates or contracts heavy vehicles to transport logs or manages a facility such as a mill where logs are delivered.   “The code also assists businesses to assess training needs for drivers and other workers,” he said. “Like all heavy vehicle drivers, drivers of log haulage vehicles must comply with numerous obligations under the HVNL, including loading requirements, mass and dimension requirements, and fatigue management. “Additionally, log haulage drivers confront particular challenges operating off-road or on primitive dirt roads, in all weather and with vehicles loaded near to their maximum capacity. High-quality on-going training must be provided to ensure that drivers are sufficiently skilled to carry out these operations safely and efficiently.” However, Mr Sariban made the point that businesses cannot “pass the buck” to drivers when things go wrong but must have in place robust systems that ensure safety. “The HVNL makes it clear that the Primary Duty is shared by all the parties who have a role in the transport task, acknowledging the opportunities that different parties have to eliminate or reduce risks to public safety from the use of heavy vehicles,” Mr Sariban said. “For example, forestry managers can reduce driving hazards through road design, signage and traffic control, while loaders can improve vehicle stability by careful selection and placement of logs.” Heavy vehicles and equipment used for hauling were also often exposed to rough and uneven ground, and to damage caused by the heavy equipment used for loading and unloading. “The environments these heavy vehicles are subjected to can damage vehicle components, so the new LHC provides in-depth guidance and control measures, so that all parties in the supply chain can work together to minimise damage to vehicles, and to identify and address vehicles and loads that may pose risks to public safety,” Mr Sariban said. The LHC outlines the range of transport activities that are involved when logs are transported from the forest. It identifies some hazards and effective measures to control them that can be implemented within each of those activities. Some of those measures relate to equipment or training or procedures, but in preparing the LHC, it became apparent that many of the hazards can only be effectively managed when businesses share information and cooperate. “I would like to extend my thanks to the forestry and haulage industry members and other parties who have given their time to helping to improve the log haulage transport task for all road users,” Mr Sariban said. “By collectively embracing a safety-first approach, we can protect lives and infrastructure and maintain a productive industry.” Industry can access the draft Log Haulage Industry Code of Practice. The Code is open for feedback for the next eight weeks. Feedback should be provided using the feedback form on the Log Haulage Code Consultation page and submitted to codes@nhvr.gov.au

Private Forests Tasmania is inviting all stakeholders and community members to contribute their valuable feedback on its newly drafted 2026-2028 strategic plan. Source: Timberbiz Following extensive engagement with stakeholders across Tasmania, CEO Elizabeth Pietrzykowski said the plan had been endorsed by PFT’s Board of Directors, marking a crucial milestone in PFT’s commitment to sustainable forest management into the future. “Your feedback is instrumental in ensuring that PFT’s strategic plan reflects the diverse perspectives and priorities within the Tasmanian private forestry, including farm forestry, sector,” she said. “Whether you are involved in plantation forestry, actively manage your native forests, farm forestry, industry, or simply passionate about Tasmania’s natural environment, we encourage you to review the plan and share your thoughts. “Input will help PFT refine its projects and shape a future where Tasmania’s forests thrive sustainably, benefiting both our community, economy and environment. “Thank you for your continued support and engagement in this important process.” To participate, please email your feedback to admin@pft.tas.gov.au before 5pm on Friday, 14 March 2025.

Forest & Wood Communities Australia is calling on the New South Wales Government to postpone any decision on the proposed Great Koala National Park until reliable and accurate data on koala populations can be verified. Source: Timberbiz According to Executive Officer Steve Dobbyns, a veteran forest scientist, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has managed to let down both the Premier Mr Minns and communities across the State by grossly exaggerating the number of koalas within some “koala hubs” by using a count of scats (koala poo) found during surveys, instead of actual koalas. “A look under the hood at the data shows that numerous koala sightings within the koala hubs have impossibly high numbers of koalas, literally hundreds of koalas recorded at a single site, because the Department has not vetted the data,” said Mr Dobbyns. “That is the quality of maths and science being used by the Department to provide advice to the Minn’s Government about which areas of the proposed Great 1414 National Park are important to koalas.” While the NSW Government described koala hubs as “areas where there is strong evidence of multi-generational, high-density populations” of koalas, FWCA notes there is no published, peer-reviewed research to support these claims. FWCA has also identified multiple data entries of the same koala sighting and questioned how the Department could determine if some of the koala hubs had “strong evidence of multi-generational” koala populations. “Despite koala sightings across the landscape dating back almost a century, the only records of koalas in some of the hubs were from the same point in time. There is no evidence of multi-generational use,” said Mr Dobbyns. “With more than 8900 jobs and $2.9 billion injected into our economy each year from our sustainable native forest industry in NSW, it is critical for our State’s future prosperity that the Minns Government makes its decision on the Great Koala National Park based on credible, up to date information.”