6785
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 1
Union pleads for anti-dumping law
This Issue
• Design awards capture imagination of architects • Plywood gets green tick for carbon storage
Job losses will escalate unless the government acts on imports: CFMEU
UNIONS and federal MPs are calling on the federal government to establish an anti-dumping agency “to prevent the loss of hundreds of jobs in the timber industry”. They claim almost 30% of house framing timber in the Australian market is imported and priced at below cost of production. However, few if any have criticised the quality and standard of much of this material. The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union says hundreds of jobs have already been cut during the past year at processing facilities owned by Carter Holt Harvey, KimberlyClarke and Gunns. The CFMEU’s ‘green triangle’
Puppets on a string .. Australian builders using more low-cost imported timber.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
district secretary for southwest Victoria and southeast South Australia Brad Coates says if ultra-cheap timber continues to be dumped on the market, hundreds more jobs will be lost. “If we could reduce dumping by even 10% we might save possibly a thousand jobs,” he said. “If we don’t, we’re going to be looking at a tsunami within the next 12 to 18 months.” Mr Coates says the rate of job losses will escalate unless the government acts soon. “My fear is that we are looking down the barrel of losing hundreds if not thousands of jobs throughout the region if
Cont Page 3
• Brett Gilmore NZ forester of the year • Forest peace talks lesson for mainland • National forest centre partnership of key stakeholders • Why lock up our productive forests? • First trade expo dedicated to wood products
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 1
TIMBER RESEARCH
Plywood, MDF get carbon green tick in landfill storage
HOW much carbon is stored in discarded wood products buried in landfill? It turns out to be a lot more than most people expect. The carbon in wood and composite wood products is effectively locked up for much longer than is assumed in carbon accounting schemes. Acknowledging this in future accounting schemes could help increase wood’s competitive advantage. Fabiano Ximenes, a research officer with the NSW Department of Primary Industries, is investigating the long-term storage of carbon in wood and paper in Australian landfills in a project funded by Forest and Wood Products Australia, the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry through the forest industries climate change research fund, and Laminex. “We’ve been working on the issue close to 10 years now,” Mr Ximenes said. “Initially we focused on sawn wood products and the research results clearly suggest there is a high level of carbon storage in those products. This project is testing the assumption that the same levels of carbon storage would be found in composite wood products such as particleboard, MDF and plywood.” Initially the researchers dug up wood and paper products buried for between 15 and 20 years in landfills in Sydney,
MDF and particleboard show very higher carbon retention rates of around 96% to 98% Page 2 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Fabiano Ximenes .. a vast majority of the carbon in wood is retained in storage.
Cairns and Brisbane to measure the levels of decomposition. Back in the laboratory they created ‘ideal landfill conditions’ in bioreactor jars to accurately establish how much MDF, particleboard, paper products decomposed, releasing greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide. The research results are very exciting for timber products; MDF and particleboard show very higher carbon retention rates of around 96% to 98%. These results are in close agreement with those from a recently published study conducted in the US, which also subjected particleboard and MDF to ideal landfill conditions. “For these timber products our research has conclusively demonstrated that the vast majority of the carbon in the wood is retained in storage,” Mr Ximenes said. “In some ways it doesn’t matter if the product is in landfill for 10, 20, 50 or 100 years; our results are suggesting there is no difference in the levels of decomposition because there’s virtually none. “We can safely claim that because of this long-term Cont Page 12
ForestWorks performs a range of industry wide functions acting as the channel between industry, Government and the Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) system
Learning Skills Research Advice Innovation
VICTORIA
PO Box 612, North Melbourne 3051 Tel: (03) 9321 3500 Email: forestworks@forestworks.com.au
NEW SOUTH WALES
PO Box 486, Parramatta 2124 Tel: (02) 8898 6990 Email: smukherjee@forestworks.com.au
TASMANIA
PO Box 2146, Launceston 7250 Tel: (03) 6331 6077 Email: edown@forestworks.com.au
BRISBANE
PO Box 2014 Fortitude Valley 4006 Tel: (07) 3358 5169 Email: bharle@forestworks.com.au
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Unit 2/191 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide 5006 Tel: (08) 8219 9028 Email: michelle@forestworks.com.au
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
INDUSTRY NEWS
Government needs better resources to fight dumping of housing timbers From Page 1
this issue is not addressed,” he said. “Another government review on this would be a complete waste of time. We established what was needed two years ago.” Mr Coates was involved in the recent failed anti-dumping case put by three companies that represent 75% of the industry – Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts, Hyne and Gunns Ltd. The companies, representing a $1.5 billion industry, claimed unfair dumping of imported structural products had slashed the Australian sales volumes by more than 15% since 2007-08. “The Customs investigation found there were some cases to answer for but said these were not sufficient or significant enough to take action,” Mr Coates said “That said, I think the system needs to be changed. It’s all very well bringing these products in – not with a tariff of 5%, but more something like 45% which is the law applied to imports in Canada and the US. “Self regulation in the industry is not working.” Mr Coates said timber imports had risen considerably in the last two years, exacerbated by the high Australian dollar, the Euro debt crisis and the slump in the North American housing market. Federal Liberal MP Dan Tehan has also urged the government to prevent the dumping of cheap housing timber on the Australian market. Mr Tehan says the government’s fight against dumping should be covered by a portfolio with better resources. There needs to be a bigger focus on preventing the flooding of the market with cheap imports. “We have called for the Department of Industry to
Imported timbers .. no end in sight.
take on this role and also for the government to fund 20 specialist personnel within the department with anti-dumping expertise so they can focus on this area,” he said. Brad Coates also questioned the quality and safety of some imported timber products, especially those from Asia. “We can relate this to the glass industry which is also suffering from inferior imported goods. There is some pretty hard evidence that this stuff is dangerous – evidence that glass table tops are exploding and glass is falling out of buildings. “There has been no serious injury .. yet. But it’s sure to happen.” Mr Coates said unions and industry were wrestling with politicians on both sides of the fence who believed in free trade at all costs. “Many of them don’t believe in protectionism and take the attitude the market will selfadjust. It certainly will after everyone loses their jobs!”
Meanwhile, engineered wood manufacturers are hoping their ‘green credentials’ will help win government building projects that are considering using wood machined in China from native timbers grown in Australia. In an offer that symbolises the apotheosis of the Chinese conquest of manufacturing, a factory in southern China is tendering to supply plywood to a multi-million dollar south Queensland hospital project that has been machined from high quality hoop pine butt logs grown in Queensland. Industry observers believe the ‘grown in Australia, made in China’ syndrome is a worrying trend for local wood processors fighting against price cutting, a depressed market, diminishing timber volumes, increased softwood imports and panels produced by Asian workers making about 20c an hour. The export of hoop pine logs to China where they are peeled and made into veneers and plywood then shipped back
‘We have called for the government to fund 20 specialist personnel within the Department of Industry with anti-dumping expertise so they can focus on this area’ – Dan Tehan
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
to Australia mirrors activity in Vietnam in the early 2000s where an exploding wood furniture industry was importing Canadian pine to make furniture largely intended for customers back in North America. “It’s a reminder, I think, that a lot of the globalisation story is a transportation story,” observed an industry analyst working in the American market. “Shipping wood across the Pacific twice sounds mighty impractical, though apparently it makes sense,” he said. “It makes sense for east Asian countries to import wood from North America. The freighters that bring everything we consume in our daily lives these days, from duvet covers to iPads, across the Pacific from the port of Shanghai to the port of Seattle have to travel back to Shanghai afterwards to go get us more of that good stuff. “And it’s a big waste of gas if they make the trip empty. As a result, shippers discount the cost of shipping from North America to China, relative to the other direction.” Another trend in Australia is the emergence of the ‘league of nations’ house. The Australian home is no longer built with Australian timbers. What used to be constructed with cypress, plantation softwoods or a selection of hardwoods for framing and flooring is now a combination of timbers sourced in Russia, Chile, China, Japan, USA and the Czech Republic as builders become puppets for the cheaper imported product. And there’s the carbon cost. The farther away you transport something, the more carbon it takes to get it where it needs to be. Between the actual cost and the environmental costs, it starts to make less sense to the bottom line.
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 3
EVENTS
First Australasian trade expo dedicated to wood products
THE first Australasian trade show for wood products has been confirmed to run in consecutive weeks in Albury, NSW, and Rotorua, NZ, in September next year. “Wood EXPO 2013 is an exciting new concept that we’ve been working on with industry and major technology providers for some time,” Brent Apthorp, a director of the Forest Industry Engineering Association said. “The expo will build on the world-class technology events that we’ve designed and run over the last 13 years,” Mr Apthorp said. “It’s a new concept for wood processing and manufacturing companies in both countries.” North America and Europe have a number of well-established and attended trade shows where the very latest in wood products technologies are showcased to industry. To date, outside of popular technology
A world ‘first” for international suppliers with a unique mix of conferences, practical workshops, displays and networking opportunities
North America and Europe have a number of well-established trade shows where the very latest in wood products technologies are showcased to industry.
events run by FIEA, there is no dedicated wood products show for either New Zealand or Australia. “Major technology providers and wood producers have been pushing us in this direction for several years,” Mr Apthorp said. “It makes good sense to
amalgamate some of our well attended two-yearly technology programs into one larger show for this part of the world. “The same FIEA focus applies though – to provide an independent platform for local companies to evaluate the very latest developments, new tools, new technologies
and new wood products from around the world. “The objective is for local companies to learn, discuss, evaluate and adopt some of these tools, new equipment or operating practices to improve their operating efficiencies and international competitiveness.” As the name suggests, the Wood EXPO will cover all things wood – from log yard handling, sawing technologies, saw doctoring, wood scanning, wood gluing and laminating, timber machining, lumber QC, mill maintenance, kiln drying, finger-jointing, wood finishing, composite panels and engineered wood products. Brent Apthorp explains that “rather than travelling offshore to evaluate the very latest gear for your mill or new products to diversify your current operation, it will instead happen on your own back door step.” Wood EXPO 2013 will be a world ‘first’ for international suppliers and will comprise a unique mix of conferences, practical workshops, displays and networking opportunities. All major wood processing and manufacturing companies are expected to come together in the two weeks in September next year (Albury September 3-5) and Rotorua September 11-13). For further information visit www.wood-expo.com
FPQ changes business name to HQPlantations
FORESTRY Plantations Queensland has changed its business name to HQPlantations Pty Ltd and carries a new logo. “This is a small but important step reflecting the changes in the HQPlantations business model and our associations,” chief executive Brian Farmer said.
Page 4 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
“It is import to note, however, that our key management principles remain consistent with our direction statement – that we take pride in the commercial and sustainable management of our forests to exceed investor and stakeholder expectations.” HQPlantations manages 343,000 ha of which 212,000
ha is utilised for hardwood and
softwood
production.
The
plantation company
operates on a 99-year licence from the Queensland government to manage, harvest and re-grow plantation timber on state- owned lands. The asset was purchased in 2010 by Hancock Queensland Plantations, a company managed by Hancock Timber Resource Group on behalf of institutional investors.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
WHAT’S ON?
JULY
15-19: World Conference on Timber Engineering. SkyCity Convention Centre, Auckland, NZ. Delegates from 34 countries, including Australia, Japan, China, Canada and Sweden. 20: AFTA business and industry seminar series. Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Bookings essential and tickets at flooringandfinishes.com.au 23-25: Australian Timber Trainers Association annual workshop. Albany, WA. Visit www.atta.org.au
20: National Carpenters Day. Tel: (03) 9597 0948. Fax: (03) 9597 0958. Email: info@ carpentersday.com.au
31: Australian Timber Importers Federation board meeting. Morning meeting in Qantas meeting rooms, Adelaide Airport, followed by lunch and the 2012 AGM. South Australian ATIF members and guests have been invited to lunch with the board before the AGM. Lou Boffo of Le Messurier Timber is the local coordinator for inquiries on (08) 8447 0400). AGM inquiries to John Halkett (02) 9356
AUGUST
13-15: Australian Window Association’s annual conference and exhibition. Fenestration Australia 2012 at The Esplanade Hotel, Largest gathering of local and international organisations associated with the window industry, bringing together more than 300 delegates from right across the value chain.
Inquiries to conference secretariat on (08) 9381 9281 or email fenestration2012reg@iceaustralia. com
22-23: Carbon Forestry2012. Auckland NZ. Forestry is New Zealand’s largest potential carbon sink and, as the ETS continues to grow in importance to NZ businesses,so does its investment future. A raft of new legislation,a dramatic drop-off in carbon trading and pricing during 2011, thsome international emissions units and uncertainty around the future alignment of New Zealand and Australia’s trading schemes has changed the landscape significantly. It’s led to uncertainty in the marketplace about the immediate future and opportunities that exist in carbon forestry. Visit www.carbonforestryevents. com
OCTOBER
3-4: Joint ISCs and Skills Australia conference: The Future of Work In 2011, Australia’s 11 industry skills councils and Skills Australia held their inaugural joint conference. Join MC Kerry O’Brien, Q&A panel moderator Tony Jones and a range of industry identities to explore the future of work, and its implications for building Australia’s human capital. Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Drive, Darling Harbour, NSW. 30-31: Industry Development Conference hosted by ForestWorks in Canbrerra. Following overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
EVENTS
the opportunities for high-level political engagement afforded by holding the dinner at Parliament House, ForestWorks has moved quickly to secure one of the few remaining available dates during sitting weeks. Speakers, topics and themes will be available soon.
10-11 (Rotorua) and 16-17 (Melbourne). Improving international cost competitiveness through smart science, research and technology. New Zealand and Australian forest products companies face increasing competition from low cost producers, and from lower cost, better performing non-wood products. Low costs and high fibre recovery,achieved through process innovation, are prerequisites to competing in today’s global forest product markets. This Australasian technology event will provide local forest products, wood processing and manufacturing companies with a unique opportunity. Visit www.woodinnovationsevents.com
NOVEMBER
3: Queensland Timber Industry Awards Night – Victoria Park Function Centre, Brisbane.
The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) has been formed through the merger of the Australian Plantations Products and Paper Industry Council (A3P) and the National Association of Forest Industries (NAFI). AFPA was established to cover all aspects of Australia’s forest industry: - Forest growing; - Harvest and haulage; - Sawmilling and other wood processing; - Pulp and paper processing; and - Forest product exporting.
28-29: ForestTech 2012 – Improving Wood Transport and Logistics. Melbourne and Rotorua
December
Australia’s forest, wood, pulp and paper products industry now has a stronger voice in dealings with government, the community and in key negotiations on the industry’s future, as two peak associations have merged to form a single national association.
4-5. Focus on improving transport and logistics in the forestry sector. It will build on the excellent program designed by the Forest Industry Engineering Association. Visit www.foresttechevents.com
For more information on the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) or to enquire about membership , please call (02) 6285 3833.
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 5
INDUSTRY NEWS
Outcome of forest peace talks will impact on wider Australian industry
By JIM BOWDEN A NEGATIVE outcome for Tasmanian sawmillers in a ‘peace deal’ now in lockup mode between industry and conservationists would have serious far-reaching consequences for the mainland forest industry. The groups have until July 23 – a date accepted by both state and federal governments – to strike a deal on the amount of native forest that can be logged in the state. Chairman of the Tasmanian Sawmillers Association Fred Ralph says mills will have to close if a peace deal provides a sawlog quota below 155,000 cub m of high quality sawlog a year. “Anything less is too awful to contemplate,” he said. “And it will have serious ramifications for the forest industry nationally. “Sometime we get the impression down here that
there is a falsely perceived opinion that what’s happening in Tasmania is removed from the mainland. Let me tell you, the outcomes in Tasmania will spread to the rest of Australia.” Tasmania’s Premier Lara Giddings will not guarantee a wood supply for sawmillers amid fears mills will have to close under any forest peace deal. The Tasmanian Sawmillers Association has written to the state’s MPs saying 23 regional sawmills do not have longterm written wood supply agreements. The Premier was asked to guarantee the sawlog supply. “There’s no point asking us to guarantee anything in this situation we’re in,” Ms Gillings said. “We’ve been very consistent that this is a negotiation between industry and the environmental groups. If they can come to an agreement that
Fred Ralph .. sincere intentions in forest peace talks.
volunteer to leave the industry as a result of reduced volumes – which inevitably will be part of the agreement – to be given adequate compensation. “We must not overlook the fact that the present crisis for sawmillers is the result of many years of government policy to put increasing areas into stages other than production forests.” Lara Giddings has dismissed claims that the state’s forestry peace deal is dead. Former Labor Premier Paul Lennon believes industry and environmentalists will never reach an agreement on the future of forestry because their positions are too far apart. Ms Giddings has said the negotiations remain productive. “If it was dead, those industry players would not be at the table right now,” she said. “But it is a difficult and hard journey for everyone to take, including those who are at the table trying to find agreement on both sides of the debate.” In another side to the state’s forest issue, regional sawmillers are considering uniting to produce a plantation-based wood product that could be used to build houses quickly and cheaply.
‘There is a falsely perceived opinion that what’s happening in Tasmania is removed from the mainland. Let me tell you, the outcomes here will spread to the rest of Australia’ – Fred Ralph
will be historic we will abide by the agreement that they reach.” The 23 small sawmills employ about 250 people. Any forced to shut as a result of the intergovernmental agreement would be compensated. Fred Ralph said he believed there were sincere intentions in the peace talks to come to an agreement. But he said sawmillers were seeking a durable agreement that would stop the conflict in the forest. “Secondly, we would need to have all log classifications indentified in legislation and all contracts of supply based on a normal contract basis,” Mr Ralph said. “We also want those who
Page 6 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
TIMBER TEATMENT
Nanotechnology new frontier in US wood preservation research
RESEARCHERS are experimenting with even smaller ‘nanotech’ particles as the timber treatment industry embraces pressure treatment with micronized wood preservatives. In the US, a team of Michigan Technological University scientists is preparing to reveal its findings following a five-year study of nanotechnology in wood preservation. “It’s a new method that uses nanoparticles to deliver preservatives into the timber,” says chemistry professor Dr Patricia Heiden. “In our experiments, it reduced the leaching of biocides by 90%.” The nanoparticles are tiny spheres of gelatin or chitosan (a material found in the shells of shrimp and other shellfish) chemically modified to surround the fungicide tebuconazole. The little spheres require no special handling. “You just pressure-treat the wood in the usual way,” Dr Heiden said. “We used tebuconazole as an organic preservative – donated by Lanxess Corp., Pittsburgh – and copper oxide nanoparticles we made ourselves as an inorganic preservative. Our main goal was to study how we could reduce the leaching.” The initial tests show that nanoparticle-treated wood is just as resistant to rot and
Industry observers speculate that the new technology could result in preservatives that are both more effective and more affordable
insects as conventionally treated lumber. The researchers have now moved their tests from the confines of the university to the warm, wet weather of Hawaii. “Most of the work is already done, but we are testing a few other things out of curiosity,” Dr Heiden said. The research is funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The preliminary study was completed last year and one group of findings has been published, with several more in the offing.
Dr Patricia Heiden .. nanoparticle-treated wood is just as resistant to rot and insects as conventionally treated lumber.
The researchers had completed similar studies before, using petroleum-based components and dilute conditions. “We used gelatin and chitosan (biopolymers) and methyl methacrylate (MMA, which is petroleum based and is used to make plexiglass),” Dr Heiden explained. “We made the nanoparticle in water by a simple combination of gelatin or chitosan with methyl methacrylate, an initiator, and the tebuconazole
Cont Page 8
www.tanalised.com
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 7
TIMBER TREATMENT
Organic nanoparticles have ‘definitely reduced leaching of organic biocide’
From Page 7
biocide and heated for a few hours. We then isolated the nanoparticles or diluted to the appropriate volume to treat the wood. “We found that these nanoparticles reduced the leaching by 90% or so, and were effective in soil jar studies. We have treated field stakes to make sure we could penetrate wood completely, but did not do field studies.” University scientists initially tried to use some commercial copper-based preservative systems, according to Dr Heiden, “but they were highly formulated and we did not always know with what, so we made a simple ‘in-house’ ACQ system and also a simple copper oxide nanoparticle, made in a solution method rather than by any sort of a mechanical reduction system of copper carbonate.” She found the results “rather
Industry observers speculate that the new technology could result in preservatives that are both more effective and more affordable. Current preservatives for residential use, they say, are much more expensive than the older most common compound used before 2004 (CCA), so manufacturers try to use less of it.
US research .. nanoparticles used to deliver preservatives into timber.
surprising,” saying that the nature of the copper oxide surfaces influenced how much the nanoparticles leached and promising to share further information in the coming months. Here’s what she can divulge: “The organic nanoparticles definitely reduce leaching
of organic biocide, and the reduction is substantial compared to a straight solution or emulsion treatment of organic biocide, even without the use of a surfactant. In our work, we found that the use of a chitosan shell did not reduce the leaching of copper oxide nanoparticles.”
That leads to at least 12 different grades of treated wood product today and makes choosing the correct wood for each application a process that requires greater care.” Replacement of decayed wood resulting from moisture damage to homes consumes an estimated 10% of the annual US timber harvest. Almost 114 million cub m of preservativetreated wood is produced and consumed in the US annually.
UK timber associations sign historic accord
THE 11 trade bodies representing the supply chain of the forestry and timber industries in the UK have signed an historic Industry accord in order to improve competitiveness and performance across the sector. The accord was signed at the offices of the Timber Trade Federation by the chief executives of each of the associations. It commits each to working together in areas of common interest and strategic goals, in particular to ensure that stakeholders see a joined up, collaborative approach and that best use is made of available funding and resources.
Page 8 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Implicit in this objective is an industry focus on customer needs and a drive for continual improvement in performance. The accord establishes a framework and methods of working between the signatories to achieve its objectives. Chief executive of the Timber Trade Federation John White said the accord formalised what had often done on an informal basis – working together for the common good of the sector and customers. “The UK timber industry is worth roughly £10 billion a year – bigger than cement, concrete and a lot of other materials – and plays a vital role in our
John White .. organisations acting as one.
economy,” Mr White said. “Yet it can often seem overlooked as this is split between more than 7500 small firms.
“This accord will help us to act as one and show the importance of our sector to the UK economic recovery and low-carbon development.” The signatories of the accord are the British Woodworking Federation; Confor; Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation; Timber Research and Development Association; Timber Trade Federation ; Trussed Rafter Association; UK Forest Products Association; UK Timber Frame Association; Wood for Good; Wood Panel Industries Federation; Wood Protection Association; and the Timber Cladding and Decking Association.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
AWARDS
New Zealand Forester of the Year Brett Gilmore (left) receives his award from NZ Institute of Forestry president Andrew McEwen. – Photo Euan Mason.
Christchurch presentation
Brett Gilmore NZ forester of the year
NAPIER forester Brett Gilmore was awarded New Zealand’s Forester of the Year at the NZ Institute of Forestry’s annual conference in Christchurch this month. The award recognises leadership, excellence and personal integrity. Consideration is given to the nominee’s contribution to New Zealand’s economic, social and environmental development, the use of innovation and new technologies or the creation of a new product or business of significance to forestry. Further consideration is given to professional and academic achievements, broad community involvement and cultural and other achievements. Mr. Gilmore is employed in the forestry and logistics division of Pan Pac Forest Products Ltd, an integrated forestry and timber products company in Hawkes Bay. A graduate of the University of Canterbury’s school of forestry, Mr Gilmore was previously a forester trainee with the New Zealand Forest Service, worked for a community forestry project in Fiji, was a harvest planner with NZ Forestry Corporation, worked for a forest engineering
consultant in Alaska and Oregon and was a harvest planner with Carter Holt Harvey in New Zealand. Mr Gilmore has had diverse roles at Pan Pac including forest engineering, land and environmental management, estate modelling and technical projects including IT implementation. The award recognises Mr Gilmore’s participation in the wider forestry scene. He has been a member of the NZ Forest Owners Association environment committee for 15 years, is the chair of the New Zealand FSC cluster group and is a member of the standards development group which negotiated a New Zealand FSC national standard. More recently, Mr Gilmore has been project manager and author for the NZFOA review of the 1999 LIRO Roading Manual, culminating in the release of the 2012 Forest Road Engineering Manual. “It is Brett’s on-going professional approach to representing forestry in a wide range of issues that has earned the respect of his peers and led to the award,” NZIF president Dr Andrew McEwen said.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
Timber & Forestry e-news is the most authoritative and quickest deliverer of news and special features to the forest and forest products industries in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region. Weekly distribution is over 6700 copies, delivered every Monday. Advertising rates are the most competitive of any industry magazine in the region. Timber&Forestry e-news hits your target market – every week, every Monday! HEAD OFFICE Custom Publishing Group Unit 2- 3986 Pacific Highway Loganholme 4129 Qld, Australia PUBLISHER Dennis Macready admin@industryenews.com.au CONSULTING EDITOR Jim Bowden Tel: +61 7 3266 1429 Mob: 0401 312 087 timberandforestnews@bigpond.com ADVERTISING Tel: +61 7 3266 1429 timberandforestnews@bigpond.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Kerri Michael kerri@mycustompublishing.com.au
Opinions expressed on Timber & Forestry e news are not necessarily the opinions of the editor, publisher or staff. We do not accept responsibility for any damage resulting from inaccuracies in editorial or advertising. The Publisher is therefore indemnified against all actions, suits, claims or damages resulting from content on this e news. Content cannot be reproduced without the prior consent of the Publisher- Custom Publishing Group.
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 9
EVENTS
World forum confirms demand for engineered wood will grow
Timber professionals gather for high-tech talks in Auckland
THE superior disaster resilience of new high-tech engineered timber products has won the attention of more than 500 timber professionals attending the World Conference on Timber Engineering in Auckland this week. Delegates from 34 countries, including Australia, Japan, China, Canada and Sweden, have gathered with more than 150 representatives of the New Zealand industry for the conference which runs from July 15 to 19 at the SkyCity Convention Centre. The Australian delegation includes 20 wood technology students sponsored by Forest
InSurAnce.. It’S All In the SelectIon
Alan Bones and Warwick Banks of Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts with Professor Andy Buchanan, research director, Structural Timber Innovation Company (right).
Selecting the right equipment to maximise your production output is similar to selecting the right people to maximise your insurance protection. Austbrokers Premier has been working with the timber industry for over 25 years and we know what insurance best suits your industry and risks. Whether it’s a complicated business interruption loss or a burnt out frontend loader we work hard to get you the right outcome.
You can expect superior outcomes from Austbrokers Premier in the following key areas: • Focus on premium value and insurer security • Expert advice for Business Interruption • Premiums + claims + deductibles – self insurance option analysis • Committed claims management & settlement negotiations. • On-going service and advice, not just at renewal time. Call Alan Jones 0419 754 681 or Scott Hastings 0406 382 582 today.
Freecall 1800 803 180 ABN 95 010 576 324 AFSL 238123
Insuring it all stacks up.
Page 10 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Hugh Morris .. growth in demand for engineered timber products.
‘A timber-framed house has the capacity to absorb the carbon emissions produced by the equivalent of two steel-framed houses’ – Alan Bones
and Wood Products Australia. Much of the discussion has centred around industry trends such as the emergence of cross-laminated timber – described by conference chairman Hugh Morris, senior lecturer of Auckland University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering as “over-sized plywood” that can be produced in massive sheets and used to construct multi-storey buildings. “Not only is it incredibly fast to erect, but a huge benefit of building using cross-laminated timber is its performance in earthquakes and its postdisaster resilience,” Mr Morris said. He foresees a growth in demand for such engineered timber products due to the Christchurch rebuild. For the last seven years, Mr Morris has been involved with teaching timber design and research into structural timber. He was involved in establishing the chair in timber design and establishment of the Structural Timber Innovation Company (STIC) research consortium and was president of the NZ Timber Design Society for two years. “I’m hoping that New Zealand industry will grow as result of what’s going on in Christchurch. Then we will be able to export whole buildings that can be assembled on site overseas,” Mr Morris said. “So, we could have the design and manufacturing happening at home.” In its first time in the Southern Hemisphere, the world conference has attracted professionals in engineering, architecture, construction, manufacturing, and research. The conference, jointly hosted
Cont Page 11
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
INDUSTRY NEWS
Timber technology: an opportunity to take it to the rest of the world
From Page 10
with Australia, has provided a forum for professionals to exchange ideas about the latest technological advances, research results and design innovations. Australian conference sponsors include Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts, Boral Timber, Hyne, Simpson Strong-Tie Australia and Forest and Wood Products Australia. One New Zealand company presenting at the conference is Canterbury-based Expan which manufactures pre-fabricated timber systems specifically for non-residential industrial and commercial buildings, a technology funded through STIC. Expan’s unique engineered timber based technology allows for timber to be used in multistorey and long-span buildings, traditionally the preserve of concrete and steel. It also makes possible very open plan, very flexible building layouts without the need for closely spaced columns or walls. Sales and marketing manager for Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts Alan Bones says Expan is a product whose time has come. It takes LVL, an engineered wood product using multiple layers of thin wood, and turns it into structural beams, frames, columns and joists. Mr Bones says the positive impact that Expan brings to the environment shouldn’t be underestimated. “A timber-framed house has the capacity to absorb the carbon emissions produced by the equivalent of two steelframed houses,” he said. “Consequently, using systems like timber framing enables us to achieve good commercial outcomes as well as minimising
the environmental impact.”
The easing of the traditional tension between business and the environment is just one of the balancing acts that Expan successfully navigates. “This is Carter Holt Harvey’s first commercial / academic partnership,” Mr Bones said.
“It has been extremely successful, especially in bridging the gap between research for research’s sake and turning it into practical outcomes that are able to be commercialised. Both academia and the commercial world have listened to one another carefully and responded.” Mr Bones says Expan represents exciting opportunities for Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts.
“Timber framing has been tried, tested and proven in New Zealand for more than 150 years and in more than 1.5 million New Zealand homes,” he said. “Timber framing is what we have grown up with; it has delivered high-quality living environments over a very long time. This is our opportunity to take it to the rest of the world. “We’re already seeing New Zealand-manufactured LVL being used in different countries. This technology allows us to participate in markets we were unable to take part in before.”
The initial focus for Expan will be New Zealand and Australia. But Mr Bones believes ultimately there is potential “anywhere in the world there are buildings”, with specific opportunities in countries with areas of seismic concern.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 11
INDUSTRY NEWS
WE’RE GOING BUSH We’re doing it for the kids .. and we need your help!
Brisbane Timber Industry Getting into Timber In the action ..Bris Hoo-Hoo Club 218 has entered dustry H bane oo Holden Kingswoo -Hoo Club 218’ the 2012 Variety Club of s ’77 d Queensl and Varie is ready for the 2012 ty Dalby on Queensland Bush Bash to raise e the Dar Club Bush Bash ling Dow fro North Q ueenslan ns to Mac m d. funds for disadvantaged children kay in and has purchased a veteran Bush Bash performer – a 1977 Holden Kingswood. The Variety Bush Bash in the club’s major children’s charity event this year. Please support it and show how the forest and forest products industry can enrich the lives of underprivileged children. Your sponsorship will attract wide media coverage and is tax deductible. SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS $3000 gold sponsorship: Four company logos or badges – two on the bonnet of the car and two on the boot or roof rack and inclusion in all the club’s editorial and advertising programs. $2000 silver sponsorship: The Governor of Two company logos or Queensland Pen elope Wensley ‘fl the start of Brisban ags’ e Timber Industry badges on the side of the car Vari Hoo-Hoo Club’s ety Bush Bash pro ject for children’s charities during World Forestry Day and sponsorship recognition on celebrations in Bris bane. Looking are committee mem bers Alan Jones in the club’s media (club president), Don Towerton and Tim Evans. programs. $1000 Bronze Sponsorship: One company logo or badge on the side of the car and sponsorship recognition in the club’s media programs. All other contributing sponsorships will be recognised. We sincerely thanks the following sponsors do date: Silver sponsors Kennedy’s Classic Aged Timbers John Crooke (Queensland Sawmills) Bronze sponsors Thora Wholesale Timbers Alan Jones Trade Builders Contributing sponsors Contributing sponsors: Bill Philip; CGU Insurance, Brisbane; Colin Wilson; Bank of Queensland, Ashgrove, Brisbane; Austbrokers Premier Insurance, Brisbane; Brisbane HooHoo Timber Industry Club 218 Inc; Tim Evans (Coast to Coast Pacific); Timber&Forestry enews; RACQ Caloundra; John Paul (BOQ Ashgrove); Contract Electrics Pty Ltd; Eden & Son Body Works; Wilson Timbers (Nigel Shaw); Advanced Timber Systems (Ian Watkins); Pacific Premium Funding Pty Ltd; BoQ Ashgrove and Sunnybank; Chancellors Chartered Accountants; Anderssen Lawyers. For more information and to discuss sponsorship options – and a chance to join the Bush Bash team on the road – contact one of the committee members: Alan Jones 0419 754 681 Don Towerton 0428 745 455 Tim Evans 0417 726 741 Jim Bowden 0401 312 087
Page 12 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Centre partnership of key stakeholders
THE wind-up of the Cooperative Research Centre for Forestry has been delayed, probably by some months. Chief executive Professor Gordon Duff said that while an interim extension had already been offered, a formal commonwealth approval would be needed for extended or new activities that would be undertaken over the next year. Some of these would probably be handed over to the new National Centre for Future Forest Industries. [The request for commonwealth approval of an amendment to the agreement is due on August 31]. The federal government, through the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, has provided seed funding of $2.5 million for the centre. The CRC for Forestry has reached the end of the sevenyear commonwealth contract, delivering successfully against all contracted outputs and milestones, as well as delivering on a number of new activities that were not covered in the initial agreement. “While there is no new federal funding for the CRC, like many CRCs, we have been able to access additional sources of funds during our seven-year term, giving the board the opportunity to invest in some
Professor Gordon Duff .. high priority activities will continue
high priority activities that will continue past June 30, 2012,” Prof. Duff said. “The negotiated extension to the commonwealth agreement means that we will be able to do this under the auspices of the CRC program.” Prof Duff added: “While we have been promoting the concept for some time, the announcement of seed funding for the national centre came at relatively short notice. “The seed funds have been made available to the University of Tasmania and the details of the contract between UTAS and the federal government are being finalised.” Prof Duff said he believed the intention was to establish a sustainable centre that works in partnership with key stakeholders including industry, other research organisations and government. The new centre will initially focus on three areas: Future options; productivity; and risk mitigation.
Increasing timber’s competitive advantage
From Page 2
storage those products are having a real mitigation effect from a greenhouse gas perspective. We are using this as an argument to say let’s look at forest products and at the life cycle of carbon in those products, and see how we can appropriately
include them in future carbon trading schemes.” Such detailed knowledge of product specific decomposition rates may help to increase wood’s competitive advantage in the future against other building products that release greater volumes of greenhouse gases.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
2012 TIMBER DESIGN AWARDS
Design awards capture imagination of Australia’s architects, designers
Record entries feature sustainable timber structures THE sandstone art-deco building housing the Museum of Contemporary Art at Sydney’s Circular Quay, now graced with a $58 million expansion and redevelopment, is the venue for the Australian Timber Design Awards presentation night on September 27. The imposing building overlooking Sydney Cove will set the scene for the industry’s biggest-ever awards event with more than 110 entries from architects, designers, engineers and students featuring sustainable timber structures. Entries closed last Friday, July 13, and judging of categories – including the popular People’s Choice Award – should be completed by early August. “In these tough times it was heartening to again receive the commitment and strong support from the industry,” said Andrew Dunn, chief executive of the Timber Development Association which is organising the 13th annual competition. “Entries are a record – up 15% on last year – and so are the quality, diversity and application of projects in wood,” Mr Dunn said. “The awards have become a ‘must-enter’ event for architects who, quite simply, now expect this annual homage to timber design.” Mr Dunn said the awards previously centred on five big trends – sustainability, complex design, engineered wood innovation, taller buildings and broader palettes – and those
The diverse range of engineered wood products has captured the imagination of architects entering this year’s Timber Design Awards. Pictured admiring the coveted EWPAA Sanderson Trophy at last year’s awards in Melbourne are, from left, Richard Stanton, national secretary, Australian Forestry Standard, Julie Payne of MorrisNunn and Associates, Hobart, who accepted the award on behalf of fellow Tasmanians James Morrison and Yvette Breytenbach, cricket legend Max Walker, master of ceremonies, and Andrew Dunn, chief executive, Timber Development Association (NSW).
trends were apparent this year, too. “But other trends are also becoming clear,” he said. “The first of these concerns flooring and this year there is a more confident use of engineered wood flooring and of distressed timber and exotic species. “Mixed materials also seem to be in vogue; exposed timber and stone has been a very popular pairing in recent years. And we’re seeing lots of innovative new designs that integrate steel elements with next-generation engineered timber products.” Mr Dunn said another clear trend concerned timber
‘Designers are recognising the structural and aesthetic qualities of a new generation of engineered wood products and entries this year featuring LVL structures are a stand-out’ Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
connections. Detailing had become increasingly thoughtful and well-informed. He said in engineered wood, designers were recognising the structural and aesthetic qualities of a new generation of engineered products and entries this year featuring LVL structures were a stand-out.
Forest and Wood Products Australia is again a platinum sponsor of the awards. Other sponsors include Boral Timber (gold), American Hardwood Export Council, Intergrain and Weathertex (all silver sponsors) and the following bronze sponsors: Briggs Veneers, Crowther Blayne, Timber Veneer Association of Australia, Design Pine, Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia, Hurford Hardwood, Hyne, Kennedy’s Classic Aged Timbers, Universal Magazines, Victorian Association of Forest Industries, and Wespine. The Australian Timber Design Awards are the premier national timber design competition for the built environment professions. A broad range of entry categories highlights outstanding use of timber in a variety of applications. A separate category is available to students and entrants 30 and under. All winners will receive a presentation plaque. The overall Australian Timber Design Award winner will receive a substantial study package.
Main award winner in the 2011 Australian Timber Design Awards .. the lavish 20-suite resort Saffire overlooking Great Oyster Bay in Tasmania, entered by Circa Morris-Nunn Walker.
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 13
NEXT NEXT NEXT BIG BIG BIG STEP STEP STEP
NEW NEW ADVANTAGES ADVANTAGES NEW ADVANTAGES WITH WITH KOMATSU WITH KOMATSU KOMATSU
Komatsu 'FoREst XtREmE' FELLER BuNCHERs & HaRVEstERs Introducing Introducing
Komatsu Komatsu
Komatsu Forest offers the PC300LC-8 and PC400LC-8 as purpose built forest machines (FX) with specifications to match the toughest jobs. Forest Xtreme features: • ROPS/FOPS/OPS Cabin • Full heavy duty Gull Wing canopy • Heavy duty under body guarding
• Harvest or Feller Buncher boom sets • Single or double bar track grousers • Integrated 1200 litre fuel tank • Engine option; 260hp or 362hp
The Forest Xtreme machines illustrates Komatsu forest’s dedication to provide the best solution for the logging contractor.
Page 14 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
www.komatsuforest.com.au www.komatsuforest.com.au www.komatsuforest.com.au
Introducing
Komatsu
Komatsu Forest Pty Ltd 15C Hyland Cres Rotorua, New Zealand Komatsu Forest Pty Ltd. Dean O’Connor M: +64 of 277 718 254 11/4 Avenue Americas E: dean.oconnor@komatsuforest.com Newington NSW 2127 Australia John Kosar M: +64 2274 8653600 844 T: +61 9647 E: john.kosar@komatsuforest.com E: info.au@komatsuforest.com
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
FORESTS AND FOREST MACHINERY
There’s something immoral about locking up our productive forests
We have the assets to be self-sufficient in timber
THIS week I want to say something about Australia’s lack of resolve (if you like) to provide for its own timber needs and the apparent increasing willingness to look towards imports as the solution to inept domestic forest and timber supplies policies. Perhaps an oblique point to start, but I have just read Kate Grenville’s excellent book The Secret River and I want to go back to the early days of that infamous British penal colony south of the equator. The book is a classic story about William Thornhill who was sentenced at the Old Bailey to hang for stealing. He escaped the hangman’s noose and was transported, along with his wife, to New South Wales. They arrived in Sydney in 1805 and eventually made good taking up land along the Hawkesbury River. I think it was interesting how early conscripts to Australia like the Thornhills viewed the strange forests surrounding them. Upon being unceremoniously off-loaded in Sydney the Thornhills along with most others saw forests as immense, threatening and useless. Author Grenville records the view as: Beyond was mile after mile of the woolly forests. It was more grey than green, tucking around the ridges and valleys in every direction. Sal Thornhill said that: In every direction that the eye travelled from the settlement all it could see were the immense bulges and distances of that greygreen forest. In her great book simply called Gum, Ashley Hay noted that the first eucalypts encountered around Sydney were branded as being of little use other than firewood. She reports that the
Coastal hardwoods in northern NSW .. productive natural assets that can be managed sustainably continue to be locked away in national parks for short-term political benefit.
commander of the First Fleet marines suggested that “the whole face was covered with trees, but not one bit of timber have we found that is fit for any other purpose than to make the pot boil. They were nothing but a useless menace”. Well, how times have changed – improvements in understanding, technology advances and experience have today seen the pendulum swing to the other end of the scale. Australia still has those immense tracts of forests, but much of it is locked away in politically-expedient national parks. So today to our shame we import much of the timber we need. Presently, there is about 43 million ha of forest in Australia and a population of around 21 million. We have 8 million
Common sense and morality should be telling us that we should be expanding the use of our own world recognised native hardwoods and plantations
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
Deep in the Woods with ..
Cheryle Forrester ha more under forest than the combined forest areas of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and the new Koreas – countries with a combined population of more than 200 million. Our rate of removal of logs from our native forests is half a cubic per hectare and the world average is 1.4 cub m/ha, or 2.5 times the Australian rate.
Sorry about the figures, but they tell us that we rank 12th highest of all countries for area of forest per citizen at 5.6 times the world average and 13th lowest in the world for the rate of removal of timber from our own forests. A bit confusing I know, but to cut to the-bottom-line, we have more forest per person that 90% of other nations but use less timber from this natural asset than 90% of other countries. In addition, we know that our population is expanding apace and that we will in all probability be an increasing importer of timber products in the future. In my view, at the very least we should be self-sufficient in our timber needs. We certainly have the forest and plantation assets to allow us to be so! What I am trying to say here is that the present evidence from Tasmania and elsewhere tells us that morally we should not be continuing to place productive natural assets that can be managed sustainably into national parks just for short-term political gain and by doing so place pressure on forests elsewhere to supply our timber needs. Common sense and morality should be telling us that we should be expanding the use of our own world recognised native hardwoods and plantations to supply our timber product needs. Doing so will greatly improve our trade balance by some billions of dollars, strengthen regional businesses and generate much-needed rural jobs. Well that’s what I think anyway. Happy to hear your views. You can send them to timberandforestryenews@ bigpond.com Catch you next time.
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 15
FORESTS AND FOREST MACHINERY
Accidental fire still main cause of damage to logging machinery
ACCIDENTAL fire is still the main source of damage and destruction of log harvesting machinery. Assessments by US-based United Risk Solutions indicate that fire is responsible for 68% of logging machinery and equipment losses. Geoffrey Stathos from United Risk Solutions says that over several years the numerous claims he has processed that have either caused major damage or completely destroyed logging equipment have been due to fire. “A fire can disrupt a harvesting operation for weeks until damaged machinery and equipment is repaired or a settlement is made for a total loss,” Mr Stathos pointed out. “Fire loss expenses are huge with large insurance deductibles, loss of income, additional expenses, reduced employee wages, delays in getting the job back on track and having to deal with the insurance company.” Machinery and equipment fires are both dangerous and expensive. Certainly Australian logging companies know what the investment they have in machinery and equipment means in terms of daily production and profit and what can happen if this production and profit stop. “With pre-planning and sensible precautions, many machinery fires are preventable,” Mr Stathos said. “It can take only 30-45 minutes daily to substantially reduce the risk of the logging machinery going up in smoke.”
Fire is responsible for 68% of logging machinery and equipment losses.
He says most common logging site hazards are created by accumulation of debris inside mechanical compartments; build-up of oil, grease, and fuel from leaks and spills; faulty or damaged electrical system wiring and components; overheating brakes; and heavy build-up of flammable materials around rotating drive shafts. The key to fire prevention is “clean, inspect, and repair”. The following fire prevention steps will help protect expensive harvesting machinery and equipment:
A fire can disrupt a harvesting operation for weeks until damaged machinery and equipment is repaired or a settlement is made for a total loss
• Clean accumulated debris out of engine and mechanical compartments at least once a day. • Clean accumulated debris from drop belly pans and remove side panels to clean and remove accumulated leaves, debris, oil, grease and spilled fuel from engine and transmission compartments at least once a week. • Steam clean or pressurewash at least once a month. • Inspect battery cables and connections and electrical wiring connections and components at least weekly. Repair or replace any defects in the electrical system. • Perform daily and routine maintenance and service as recommended by the manufacturer. • At shutdown, engage battery disconnect switch if available on unit. • Maintain and regularly service the engine and hydraulic cooling systems to avoid overheating. • When parked at shutdown,
This section is supported by the Australian Forest Contractors Association Page 16 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
maintain at least 50 feet between machines in an area cleared of excess ground debris to minimize spread of fire. • After shutdown, observe machines for a 30 to 60 minute cool down time. • Before using a cutting or welding device, clean the machine and, if necessary, wet the work area down with water. Have a fire extinguisher or fire truck close to your work. • Maintain an approved, charged, and operable fire extinguisher at all times for each piece of equipment. • Make sure that all fire fighting equipment is kept close to the jobsite. To help minimise damage from accidental fire appropriate, serviced and accessible fire protection equipment should be in place. With 120 years of experience, Wormald is Australia’s leading fire protection specialist. Wormald designs, manufactures, installs and services a wide range of fire detection and protection equipment including vehicle fire suppression (VFS) systems which provide vital risk management for heavy forestry and harvesting vehicles. The systems are developed to suppress fires occurring in key fire risk areas such as the engine and transmission compartments, brakes and hydraulic areas of all kinds of vehicles. Wormald’s Foam Water Spray Vehicle Fire Suppression System and the Ansul A-101 Vehicle Powder System are both ActivFire listed to be compliant to AS 5062. The Foam Water Spray Vehicle Fire Suppression (VFS) System
Cont Page 17
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
Weighing the load: top marks for scale system
KOMATSU Forest has scored top marks for weighing and calculating the weight of the load in a new study into crane scales on forwarders conducted by the Swedish research institute Skogforsk. “It’s great to see that we’ve succeeded so well with our scale system for forwarders,” says Per Annemalm, product manager at Komatsu Forest. Weighing in conjunction with logging and forwarding, crane scales and scales in the bunk are the most interesting alternatives for forwarders. During forwarding, crane tip scales weigh and register weights when unloading. The scale system comprises hardware in the shape of a socalled scale link, which is fitted between the crane tip and the rotator, and the necessary software. In Sweden, only a small share of timber and forest biomass is weighed using crane scales. In Finland, on the other hand, almost half of all forwarders are fitted with crane scales. Komatsu’s crane scale has a hydraulic scale link that sends the weight data wirelessly via Bluetooth to the cab. The weight data is then presented as an integral part of the control system. The crane tip scale weighs both when
loading and unloading, but the weight is only registered during unloading as this provides the most accurate readings. The crane scale senses the position of the crane and determines whether the timber is being loaded or unloaded and when the best reading will be achieved. During the loading cycle, when the crane passes over the bunk the system automatically analyses the measurement values and selects the most representative weight. The most important and most relevant result of the Skogforsk study is how well the crane links manage to weigh and calculate the weight of the load. The reason is simple – this is how one normally uses and registers weight when operating a forwarder. According to the study, the scales measure the weight of the load with good accuracy and a low standard deviation. However, the best performer was Komatsu’s crane scale, which – according to the study – showed very good results. The standard deviation for Komatsu’s system was 0.13% per load, which was the smallest standard deviation among all the crane scales tested.
Fire still main cause of damage to machinery
From Page 16
features high pressure and small droplet nozzles which target risk areas such as the turbo charger and starter motor in the engine compartment. The system utilises the fire suppressing and containment features of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). In the event of a fire, a continuous stream of foam water spray is
discharged to rapidly suppress flames and dramatically cool hot surfaces. At the same time, the generated foam acts to smother fuel and oil-spill fires, helping to prevent re-ignition. The Ansul A-101 Vehicle Powder System, which discharges a dry powder known as Foray into the risk area to suppress the fire, is well suited to threedimensional liquid fuel fires.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
FORESTS AND FOREST MACHINERY
We’re right behind you in the field Combining remote locations, harsh operating environments and heavy vehicles and equipment, the forestry and timber industries face significant fire risks. With Wormald, you have an organisation that is always right behind you when you need us most. We’ve helped prevent and protect against fires for over 120 years. Wormald has the fire protection solutions for heavy vehicles that range from fire detection and suppression systems, to portable fire equipment, personal protection gear and staff training; our end-to-end tailored solutions help protect major forestry operations throughout Australia and the Pacific region. So, you can get on with the job, confident that your people, resources and machinery are supported by one of the world’s fire safety leaders. That’s peace of mind. Trust the forestry fire safety experts. In Australia: Call 1300 556 015. email wormald.ads@tycoint.com or visit wormald.com.au/vehicles In New Zealand: Call 0800 496 762, email wormaldnz.ads@tycoint. com or visit wormald.co.nz/vehicles
Pictured: Cylinders and Extinguishers
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 17
Weyerhaeuser purchases wood under US tree farm certification
US forest giant Weyerhaeuser Company has announced its preference for purchasing wood certified under the American Tree Farm System. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to responsible fibre sourcing. For more than 89,000 family forest owners sustainably managing about 11 million ha of forestland in the American Tree Farm System, the Weyerhaeuser preference for their certified wood will make a real difference in the viability of tree farms and the economic health of rural communities. “Weyerhaeuser’s announcement is just what certified tree farmers have been waiting for,” says Tom Martin, president and CEO of the American Forest Foundation. “Healthy forests need healthy markets because protecting your trees against insects, disease and catastrophic fire can be expensive,” he said. “These landowners are hardworking people who want to keep their forests as forests, and keep them in the family. “Weyerhaeuser’s continued commitment to ensuring woodland owners have the tools to manage sustainably is laudable,” Mr Martin added. The American Tree Farm System is the largest and oldest woodland system in America. Certified tree farmers meet the highest standards of sustainability and manage their lands for water, wildlife, wood and recreation. The system is a program of the American Forest Foundation. Weyerhaeuser’s corporate sustainability goals include demonstrating forest
Page 18 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
The Texas Forestry Association recently named Dr Jerry and Mary Marcontell the 2012 Texas Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year for the excellent management of their tree farm in Liberty County. Tom Martin, CEO of the American Tree Farm System (left) and Wayne Pflujger, a professional forester (right) make the presentation. The Marcontell tree farm consists of 448 ha of pine and hardwood trees. The objectives for management are to enhance the forest for timber production, wildlife and recreation, while taking into account water quality and aesthetics.
stewardship by certifying its timberlands to sustainable forestry standards. All the timberlands Weyerhaeuser owns or manages in North America are certified to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative system. In addition, all the company’s manufacturing facilities in North America are certified to the SFI certified sourcing standard. The company supports the use of internationally accepted sustainable forestry standards, including the use of independent, external auditors that verify a
company’s commitment to responsible sourcing. Weyerhaeuser’s responsible fibre sourcing practices are guided by its wood procurement policy and implementation guidelines. “Most of our customers want certified wood and paper products,” says Dan Fulton, president and CEO of Weyerhaeuser Company. “There is widespread understanding of the value of certification, and encouraging best practices remains by far the most important role for certification.
‘There is widespread understanding of the value of certification, and encouraging best practices remains by far the most important role for certification’ – Dan Fulton, president, Weyerhaeuser
“Buyers want to know their wood comes from sustainably managed forests,” Mr Fulton added. “To give our customers what they want, we need more wood from certified tree farms.” The preference for American Tree Farm System-certified wood will be implemented at Weyerhaeuser through a number of measures: • Incentives – the company will maintain a priority market for material from certified tree farms, especially when suppliers are put on quotas. • Procurement decisions where a vendor management plan is used (which scores wood suppliers on a number of metrics) Tree farm certification will be a positive attribute. • Policies and tracking – the company will declare support for the American Tree Farm System in its wood procurement policy and it will track its use of wood from certified Tree Farms. • Support expansion of the American Tree Farm System – the company will offer landowner assistance to encourage tree farm certification and the management of forests to American Tree Farm System standards of sustainability. “America’s forests need strong industry players like Weyerhaeuser to recognise the value that family forest owners are contributing to sustainable forestry,” Tom Martin said. “Giving preference to wood from certified tree farms means more woodland owners have the financial resources to continue their hard work and on-the-ground stewardship.”
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
Woodchips converted directly to diesel fuel
THE first plant to convert solid biomass such as wood chips and straw directly into diesel fuel opened this month in Austria. Said to be the first of its kind in the world, the BioCRACK pilot plant at a petrochemical refinery in Schwechat extracts the diesel by heating the biomass with heavy oil to over 400 °C.
Diesel made out of biofuel could be an important alternative to ‘first-generation biofuels because these are a threat to food supply, according to Gerhard Roiss, chief executive of OMV, one of the firms behind the plant. Mr Roiss said the European fuel market faced considerable challenges; it must meet the growing demand for diesel and
sector to at least 10% by 2020. “Conventional first-generation biofuels are not a longterm solution because the cultivation of the necessary raw materials competes with food production,” he said.
raise the renewable energy share in the transport fuel
Researchers also claim biofuels from wood produce fewer CO2 emissions in production.
‘Wood First’ gets $2.3m to broaden use in wood buildings
MORE than $2.3 million is being invested this year in Canada’s Wood First program, an initiative to promote the use of British Columbia wood products in commercial, government and mid-rise buildings.
According to the 201213 Wood First Investment Strategy, funding will go towards growing the culture of working with wood in British Columbia, maximise wood use in public and private projects, and strengthen capacity for
production of high-quality wood based products and building systems. Funding will also go towards accelerating adoption of emerging wood-based products and building systems,
and positioning the province as a world leader in sustainable and
innovative
wood-based
products and building systems in
design,
production,
and
application.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE Items provided in this section of Timber & Forestry E news are drawn from a number of sources. The source of the item is quoted, either by publication or organizations in line with the practice of fair reporting.
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
issue 230 | 16.07.12 | Page 19
Nominations Excellence :: Recognition :: Celebration The Queensland Timber Industry Awards are an important means of highlighting excellence in our industry and rewarding organisations who are leading the way in terms of service, innovation and commitment to improving both their business and the industry as a whole. The gala evening when these awards are presented is the only event of its kind; it provides a platform to celebrate our industry, our state and recognise our top performers. This evening is set for Saturday 3 November 2012 at Victoria Park Function Centre, Brisbane. To maintain the credibility of these awards and therefore the prestige and honour they represent for finalists and winners, the judging criteria for 2012 have been adjusted to reflect recent ideals and trends as well as give greater weight to operational areas of importance. The criteria for each category is available to view on the website, www.tabma.com.au - Queensland - Information Sheets - 2012 QTI Awards Criteria.
Award Categories 2012
Best Specialist Timber Merchant
Best Frame & Truss Operation (Metro)
Best Building Materials Centre (Metro)
Best Frame & Truss Operation (Regional)
Best Building Materials Centre (Regional)
Best Timber Manufacturing Operation
Best Timber Wholesale Operation
Best Sawmilling Operation
Best Specialist Service Operation
Trainee of the Year
Best Training Culture
Apprentice of the Year
Best Wholesale Sales Representative
Recognising Women In Forest & Timber
If you wish to nominate please visit www.tabma.com.au - Queensland - News and Events - 2012 QLD Timber Industry Awards Nomination Form and complete an entry for each nomination. All nominations will be kept confidential and only be seen by TABMA Queensland management and judges. Nominations close 15 June 2012. Introducing the Sponsor’s...
Sponsorship packages are still available. Page 20 | issue 230 | 16.07.12
Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au
Timber & Forestry e news is published by Custom Publishing Group. Timber & Forestry e news is a full colour e magazine emailed every Monday to Decision Makers within the Australian and New Zealand Timber and Forestry sectors. Advertising is booked with a minimum 4 week booking with discounts for 12, 24 and 48 week bookings.
RATES
12 week- 7.5% Discount 24 week- 10% Discount 48 week- 15% Discount Classified ads can be booked in a per issue basis. All advertisements link to customer websites or email address with an option for rich text (flash). BENEFITS:
DIRECT PENETRATION via email. WEEKLY opposed to monthly alternatives. NEWS that is up to date that will ensure readership. COST EFFECTIVE advertising rates.
S
Display Ads
Display Ads Minimum 4 issue booking
Rate per Issue + GST $380 $210 $210 $165 $138 $83 $203 $90
Full Page Bleed Half Page Vertical Half Page Horizontal Third Page Horizontal Quarter Page Vertical Eighth Page Front Page Third Horizonal Front Page Masthead
Size Specifications Height x Width 303mm x 216mm 254mm x 93mm 125mm x 190mm 73mm x 190mm 125mm x 93mm 60mm x 93mm 73mm x 190mm 33mm x 45mm
Classifieds
Classified Ads per week
Half Page Vertical Quarter Page Vertical Eighth Page Horizontal Full Page Bleed
$182 $120 $72 $330
220mm x 93mm 107mm x 93mm 51mm x 93mm 303mm x 216m
Extras: Video Available Video next to front cover $200 per issue. Within the magazine $165 per issue.
Artwork Specifications: Please supply all artwork as High Resolution (300dpi) Pdf’s or jpegs. Send artwork to kerri@mycustompublishing.com.au
DISPLAY DEADLINES Booking – Noon Wednesday for Monday edition. Material – Noon Thursday CLASSIFIED DEADLINES Bookings & Material – Noon Friday Terms: Account Clients- 14 days New Accounts: Payment on Booking All Classifieds- Payment on booking (Credit card preferred)
All prices quoted plus GST and based on Art being supplied. We can create artwork if required – Eighth/Quarter $44 Half $66 which will be billed if complete art is not supplied to our specifications. Video: Maximum 3 meg swf file. Due to the regularity of timber & forestry e news and the tight deadlines no customer proofs can be sent.
Advertising Sales
Banner Ads &
Classified Ad Custom Group Advertising: Tel +61 3266 1429 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au cancon@bigpond.net.au Advertising: TelPublishing +61 77 3266 Email:
T: (07) 3266 1429
Sales
e: cancon@bigpond.net.au
e: brett@mycustompublishing.com.au
Production T: 0439 417 671 ISSUE 203 || 16.07.12 12.12.11 || Page PAGE 21 15 issue 230 e: kerri@mycustompublishing.com.au
www.industrye-news.com