Issue 234 Timber & Forestry E News

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Tough slog, at least until 2014 Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 1

This Issue

•E ngineered wood a new ballgame • IFA CEO ready to face new challenges

Strengthening US housing market to drive global demand for timber: report

A NEW report on sawn timber suggests the industry is in for a long, hard slog under the weight of a high Australia dollar and imports, at least for the next 15 months.

BIS Shrapnel believes that 2013 will continue to present challenges from imports.

However, by 2014, international and domestic conditions are expected to be more favourable to producers as the dollar declines.

Global demand for timber will also improve in response to a stronger housing market in the US and strong demand in Asian markets.

Based on a major survey of

High Australian dollar and imports .. a heavy load to toss for Australian industry.

builders, other end users and merchants, the report analyses the significant differences in the hardwood and softwood sawn timber sectors. It found that Australian producers are currently facing increased pressure from imports at a time when the domestic housing market has been sluggish, and when domestic producers have sufficient capacity to supply much of the domestic market.

However, imports are not a significant long-term threat, as they are still well below the historical levels of 20 years ago, the report says.

Cont Page 3

R ichard Colbeck: 10 years a senator •T imber import volumes a fact of life •F WPA industry’s last hope •O smose seminars focus on consumer demands •B ush Bash: a run for funds and fun

Osmose UPDATE seminars Osmose® Australia will be holding a series of seminars to update customers and industry partners on important industry issues including; Global Timber Market Overview Implications for Restricted Chemical Products status for CCA Update on MicroPro® Technology and more Speakers include state regulatory authorities.

Osmose Australia invites you to attend these catered events running from 10am to 3 pm. This is a great chance to network with your colleagues, we look forward to welcoming you.

Osmose and MicroPro are registered trademarks of Osmose Inc and its subsidiaries

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DATES AND VENUES

Brisbane, Novotel Brisbane Airport Tuesday 14th August Sydney, Parkroyal Parramatta Friday 17th August REGISTER ONLINE NOW

Or type this URL into your browser http://www.osmose.com.au/Seminars2012.html

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 1

INDUSTRY NEWS

IFA chief executive ready to face new forestry challenges

EXTENSIVE experience as a senior executive and a consultant in the agricultural, natural resource management, sustainability and communications sectors have equipped Alison Carmichael well for her new position as chief executive of the Institute of Foresters of Australia, based in Canberra.

“Alison has significant experience as a CEO of organisations with diverse membership and will bring a fresh new approach to IFA,” the president Rob de Fégely said.

“We have a well established organisation with a proud history and a strong culture of volunteerism that is facing some challenges, with tough economic conditions and opportunities for training in the forestry sector in Australia rapidly diminishing despite a strong long-term outlook for the sector,” Mr de Fégely said.

“Alison can help us to focus strategically on what needs to be done, building on our strengths, and make the changes we need to remain relevant into the long term.”

Ms Carmichael said the position provided an opportunity to bring together her expertise in NRM and senior management.

“I am delighted to be re-making connections with people I have previously known and worked with,” she said.

“I am a keen bushwalker and look forward to meeting many IFA members and getting out of the office periodically and into our forests.”

In her previous position, Ms Carmichael was chief executive of the Association of Building Sustainability Assessors Ltd. In November 2008, ABSA had 400 members involved in a single accreditation program.

Soon after, ABSA became an approved accrediting

Page 2 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

Alison Carmichael .. loves a walk in the forest.

organisation for the federal government’s Green Loans program. Within 15 months, ABSA had 7500 members in two accreditation programs.

Ms Carmichael has held senior positions with Irrigation Australia Ltd, Naturally Resourceful Pty Ltd, a communications consultancy (co-owner), ACE North Coast as a vocational training officer and was rural community extension officer with NSW Agriculture.

During her three years with Irrigation Australia, she singlehandedly implemented two national projects for the industry funded by the federal government. The first was to build and implement a national recognition and certification framework for the irrigation industry based on skill sets; the second to develop a costeffective, national, industrybased certification scheme to accredit meter installers, maintainers, inspectors or validators for non-urban water meters.

Ms Carmichael holds a Diploma in Agricultural Science from Melbourne University (Dookie) and is looking forward to the IFA annual conference – Managing Our Forests Into the 21st Century – to be held at the Canberra Rex Hotel from April 7 to 11 next year.

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

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Sawn timber production will not meet demand over the long term

From Page 1

According to the BIS Shrapnel Sawn Timber in Australia 2012-26 report, in the last two decades there has been a significant reduction in sawn timber imports, as domestic production capacity has expanded. At the same time, exports have grown rapidly in the past five years.

The report projects that the demand for sawn timber in Australia during the next decade will be driven by sharp growth in the building and construction sector.

Due to the current undersupply of residential dwellings in Australia, BIS Shrapnel forecasts the residential construction sector, which uses more than 70% of the sawn timber produced locally, will grow strongly during 2014 and 2015.

Average annual domestic demand for sawn timber is forecast to increase from 4.9 million cub to 5.4 million cub m between 2012 and 2015, and rise again in the decade to 2026, from 5.4 million cub m to 5.7 million cub m.

This is compared to demand in 2011 of only 5.1 million cub m.

BIS Shrapnel report author and senior manager Bernie Neufeld says expected production of sawn timber will not be able to meet demand over the long term. Production of sawn timber will range between 4.5 million cub m 5.2 million cub m. “This will not be sufficient to meet the projected demand,” Mr Neufeld said.

“Unless domestic capacity is significantly increased to meet this projected demand, then imports will likely rise again over the long term.

“This suggests the Australian industry has the potential to accommodate new mills to service the domestic market

Demand for sawn timber in Australia during the next decade will be driven by sharp growth in the building and construction sector.

and potential export markets.

There is a need to expand the plantation resource to allow this to happen.”

During the past three decades, the hardwood sector has been subject to constraints arising from community pressures and government legislation to conserve resources. Structural changes to the industry during the same period has seen smaller companies exit the industry, or absorbed by larger players such as Boral and Gunns.

Due to these factors, production and demand for hardwood has declined by almost 50%r cent over the past decade.

BIS Shrapnel expects further declines of 7 to 12% during the five-year period 2012 to 2016. Exports are expected to decline by 50% and imports to increase marginally.

Despite declining demand, local prices are expected to experience upward pressure due to limitations on domestic production and supply, and rising import prices.

Bernie Neufeld .. strong demand and limited supply suggest strong price growth.

“We are forecasting that the Australian dollar will remain strong against the US dollar until 2014,” Mr Neufeld said.

“This will curtail strong price rises, but beyond 2014 the dollar is projected to decline, which will raise the price of imported hardwood.

“Locally produced hardwood will also be under supply pressure due to government policy and limited availability, which will place upward pressure on prices.”

Major government-initiated

Due to the current undersupply of dwellings in Australia, the residential construction sector, which uses more than 70% of the sawn timber produced locally, will grow strongly during 2014 and 2015

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softwood plantation programs are starting to pay significant dividends in the Australian sawn timber market.

In Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia these plantations have been or are in the process of being sold to private investors.

These long term investments have supported the development of modern, largerscale and more technologysavvy saw mill operations that are in a position to be more competitive with imports and in export markets, and to expand capacity as domestic and global markets improve.

There is also scope for expanding softwood and hardwood plantations with log qualities capable of producing sawn timber for domestic and export markets.

The softwood sector has experienced considerable consolidation during the last five years and further restructuring is likely over the forecast period.

“With US-based Weyerhaeuser selling its operations to Carter Holt in the last decade and Gunns purchasing several mills, including Auspine, there are now three producers – Carter Holt Harvey, Gunns and Hyne – which have the largest share of the market.

“AKD, D&R Henderson, and Wespine have smaller but still significant shares,” Mr Neufeld said.

“There are likely to be further changes over the next five years, as Gunns reviews timber and pulp mill options, and the owners of Carter Holt Harvey review investment strategy options.

“This could result in further consolidation. While this may reduce domestic competition, it will likely make the industry Cont Page 4

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 3

INDUSTRY NEWS

A consolidated softwood sector can expect further restructuring

From Page 3

price growth.”

more competitive with imports, and in export markets.”

BIS

accurate,

The demand for softwood sawn timber increased by 15% in the last decade. However, production increased by 21%,

The Australian industry has the potential to accommodate new mills to service the domestic market and potential export markets. There is a need to expand the plantation resource to allow this to happen

Shrapnel clearly

compiles explained

and detailed information on industry sectors, markets and industries in which their clients operate. It provides market size and segmentation data, market The demand for softwood will continue to increase from 4.2 million cub m in 2012 to 5 million cub m by 2026.

as consumers shifted from using hardwood to softwood.

BIS Shrapnel expects the demand for softwood to continue to increase from 4.2 million cub m in 2012 to 5 million cub m by 2026, and production to increase to 4.6

million cub m.

“There will still be a requirement for imports, and a constraint on exports, unless the plantation resource and industry capacity is increased,” Mr Neufeld said.

“Strong demand and limited supply suggest strong

shares, consumer attitudes and supplier reputation information, and regularly conducts both business-to-business

and

consumer research.

Over the company’s 48-year history, BIS Shrapnel has built up a strong level of expertise and unique methodologies for forecasting.

Timber import volumes a fact of life

By Jim Bowden

THE volume of timber imports causing concern for local processors in a tough economy is not going to end any time soon; they are now a major part of the market landscape, according to leading industry figure John McNamara.

“What imports have done is force prices down, making players in Australia reduce the value of their wood to maintain sales volumes thus adding a very competitive edge to their business – which isn’t necessarily a good thing,” the former Timber Queensland chairman and managing director of DTM Timber, based at Maryborough, said.

“Prices going down doesn’t help anbody – importer or domestic producer.

“But I don’t think this scenario is likely to change.”

Mr McNamara said Australian manufacturers of softwood

Page 4 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

framing had to come to grips with the fact that importers were now a major part of the market and there were obvious signs that they were staying put, permanently – no matter which way the Australian dollar turned.

“So they are one of the players now adding to the competition for framing products,” he said.

“Various companies will make various decisions on whether they are going to be more

John McNamara .. nobody wins in a price war.

Manufacturers of softwood framing have to come to grips with the fact that importers are now a major part of the market and there are obvious signs that they are staying put, permanently

aggressive and try to win greater market share on price.

“And as each becomes more agressive, prices will head south again.”

Mr McNamara said manufacturers had to seriously consider their margins and cost structures – “and sometimes they don’t have a choice if they want to maintain markets. They have to match the price,” he said.

“Then companies get more agressive to win that market at lower prices, so if everyone takes a shot at winning market share by reducing price it will drive prices down further.

“That’s not a good look when we are all fighting for profit margins in a depressed economy further damaged by a carbon tax.”

Mr McNamara who moved from plantation softwood processing (he was former chief executive of Hyne) to hardwood production said his sector was also relatively competitive in the flooring and decking market with imports from Asia.

“But we don’t face the kind of competition the software framing industry is getting,” he said.

Mr McNamara said Queensland hardwood processors

Cont Page 7

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WHAT’S ON? 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 29: Chopper-roller field day.

Miva on the Bauple-Woolooga road. Turn west off Bruce Highway, about 17 km to Munna Miva Road. (Look for the ‘field day’ signs. Time: 9 am-3 pm. Tel: (07) 5483 6535 or email pfsq @ bigpond.com

SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER

FWPA R&DWorks seminar series: Coffs Harbour, NSW, September 4; Maryborough, Qld, September 6; Brisbane September 7; Albury, NSW, October 4; Oberon, NSW, October 31; Sydney November 1; Hobart November 29.

OCTOBER

2-4: Future Build 2012.

Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

Contact Australian Exhibitions and Conferences (03) 8672 1200 or email: mail@aec.net.au

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. 14-17: Australian Forest Growers conference. Gympie Civic Centre, Gympie, Qld. More than 50 speakers will present at 20 sessions. Three concurrent streams will feature growing, products and markets and integration. The middle day will feature six field trips heading in all directions from Gympie to examine local growing and processing in action. This will be followed by the presentation of the national Tree Farmer of the Year Award at the conference dinner. Visit www.afg.asn.au for

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EVENTS

further information or contact Terry Greaves on (02) 6162 9000 or email terry.greaves@afg.asn.au

30-31: ForestWorks and First Super 5th annual Industry Development Conference In 2011, Hyatt Hotel and Parliament House. Canberra. This is an important opportunity for all current and aspiring leaders of the forest, wood, paper and timber industry to engage in strategic and political debate on critical issues affecting the whole industry in Australia. This year’s conference will consider the future opportunities and challenges for manufacturing timber, wood and paper products in an advanced and multi-speed economy. The conference has been specifically scheduled to coincide with parliamentary sitting week, providing a great chance for industry players, union representatives, policy makers and MPs to gather, network and share ideas on positive future directions for the industry.

Registration inquiries contact: The Events Manager at cday@ forestworks.com.au or phone (03) 9321 3500.For further information, including announcements of speakers and topics, visit www.forestworks.com.au/ conference2012 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,

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.

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.

For more information on the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) or to enquire about membership , please call (02) 6285 3833.

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 5

EVENTS

Devonport celebration recognises Richard Colbeck’s years as senator

MORE than 120 family members, friends, industry leaders and parliamentary colleagues gathered in Devonport, Tas, on August 3 to celebrate Richard Colbeck’s 10 years as a senator in the federal parliament.

Shadow Treasurer Joe Hockey paid tribute to Senator Colbeck’s contribution to the parliament, praising his considered approach to issues based on strong principles and a preparedness to consult broadly before reaching a position.

“When Richard speaks, we listen,” he said.

Celebrating with Senator Colbeck were senators Eric Abetz, the Leader of the Opposition in the Australian

Senate, David Bushby (deputy Opposition whip), Stephen Parry (deputy president of the senate) and Helen Kroger (chief Opposition whip in the senate), as well as Tasmanian MPs Michael Ferguson and Adam Brooks.

Senator Colbeck reflected on his time as a senator, and his parliamentary secretary roles.

“From working with Joe Hockey in the health portfolio, to the agriculture portfolio, my time in the finance portfolio and now with responsibilities for fisheries, forestry, innovation, industry and science, the job has been stimulating, rewarding and never without challenges,” he said.

“Never is this truer than at the moment in the forestry and

Shawn Britton, Tony Jaeger, and Buz Green help celebrate Senator Richard Colbeck’s milestone at the Waterfront Function Centre in Devonport.

Page 6 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

Well-earned tribute .. Senator Richard Colbeck addresses the celebratory dinner in Devonport.

fisheries portfolios. Sustainable access to resources based on sound science is pivotal to both these portfolios.

“I recognise that there are going to be differences in outlook and rigorous debate.

That is as it should be. But it is disappointing that what we are seeing from the environmental activists and the Greens is little more than a series of fear campaigns under the guise of being the honest brokers in these debates, with scant regard for the truth.”

Another highlight of the evening was an insight into Senator Colbeck’s time as a rookie fighter pilot.

Representatives from the

Cont Page 7

Enjoying the evening are Russ Ainley, executive director, NSW Forest Products Association, Nanette Drielsma, wife of respected forester Dr Hans Drielsma, and John Halkett, technical manager, Australian Timber Importers Association, Sydney.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Plantation establishment down to zero

From Page 4

were openly discussing the government’s policy decision to open up productive state native forests, previously reserved by the former Bligh goverment, for increased sustainable timber production.

“Our company is very active on this,” he said. “We are providing information and strongly supporting Timber Queensland on its stand for a new timber industry plan.”

Meanwhile, data available from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences shows plantation establishment over the past decade declining to almost zero this year.

About 10 yeas ago, new plantations were being established at around 136,000 ha a year. The following three years saw successive declines in yearly planting levels, down to 42,000 ha a year at the end of that period.

The rise in new plantations in 2006-07 to 87,000 ha a year coincided with the peak in activity of the forestry managed investment schemes (MIS).

These plantations were predominantly blue gum and other hardwood species. Since then, planting levels have been

declining; 2009-10 represented a record low, with new plantings falling to 23,000 ha a year. And based on preliminary data for this year planting levels have declined even further after the complete collapse of the MIS schemes.

The establishment trend in

Austwest mill fire likely to cost $3m

AUSTWEST Timbers says a fire that caused major damage at a sawmill mill near Manjimup in Western Australia could cost the company more than $3 million.

The fire was initially estimated to close the Deanmill facility

for eight weeks, costing the company about $2 million.

However, Auswest’s managing director Gary Addison says plans to partially reopen the mill after two months have been abandoned.

softwood plantations has been irregular over the past decade.

Between 1999 and 2000 and 2007-08, the area established fluctuated between 5200 and 11,000 ha. Since then new plantations have fallen below these levels.

The 2009-10 year saw the annual establishment of softwood plantations fall to 3000 ha with a further decline this year.

This all points to an impending dramatic domestic timber supply shortage which can only be overcome in the long-term by a rapid pick-up in planting, or by increasing timber imports.

Milestone for Tas. senator

From Page 6

timber and forestry industry who travelled to Devonport to celebrate the event included Simon Kang from Ta Ann, Greg McCormack, David Pollard and Mick Stephens from the Australian Forest Products Association, John Halkett from the Australian Timber Importers Federation, Michael Hartman and Todd Loydell of ForestWorks, forester Dr Hans Drielsma and his wife Nanette, Shawn Britton of Britton Timbers, Russ Ainley, NSW Forest Products Association, Warwick Ragg, Australian Forest Growers, Arnold Willems, Norse Skog, Lisa Marty, Victorian Association of Forest Industries, Tony Jaeger of McKay Timbers and Leeanne Sefton of the Devonport Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

www.tanalised.com

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 7

WOOD INNOVATION

Engineered wood a new ballgame Manufacturers must meet changes in consumer demands

INNOVATION .. it’s probably best defined as the process of generating and developing new processes or products.

Because Australasia is relatively isolated, small by world standards, and research capacity and funding for the primary and manufacturing sectors has dropped away considerably, a large proportion of new technologies continue to be imported.

Forest products companies have been successful in developing and fine-tuning manufacturing processes.

Innovation is still strong and new equipment, tools and systems have been adopted by local companies to improve productivity and operating efficiencies.

In most instances, rather than a breakthrough, it’s been a step change.

The Forest Industry Engineering Association for many years has been running a wide range of independent technology events in Australasia.

“The focus has been very clear,” FIEA director Brent Apthorp said.

“As local companies are distant from many of the larger technology providers in Europe and North America, technologies best suited to our own industry and wood being processed are able to be showcased through these events.

“Increasingly though local companies are recognising that to remain competitive they need to think outside the square.

“Squeezing efficiencies out of current manufacturing operations is only a short-term fix to remain internationally competitive. To stay in the game, they need to evaluate new product innovations that can be adopted to diversify their current manufacturing,

Page 8 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

their product mix and markets.”

largest manufacturer of wood-

To stay in the game, manufacturers need to evaluate new product innovations that can be adopted to diversify their current product mix and markets.

Mr Apthorp said wood plastic composites (WPCs) were clear example of just how quickly the game had changed.

At the recent Wood Preservation 2012 event run by FIEA, local timber treaters were shown just how the composites share in the home improvement market has climbed.

For products such as wooden decks, fences and siding, the consumer market’s tastes have changed.

The trend to outdoor living, lower maintenance, improved durability and to products that don’t include preservative chemicals has meant that the composite market share has jumped 31% in the last 10 years.

Trex Company, the world’s

Squeezing efficiencies out of current manufacturing operations is only a short-term fix to remain internationally competitive

John Alexander .. growing opportunities in wood modification.

alternative decking and railing products, recently announced net sales for the first quarter of 2012 had increased a staggering 39% with projections of another 15% for the second quarter. Advanced Plastics Recycling from South Australia outlined the inroads that they’d made in their sales of products like decking, posts, fencing, railing, sleepers, bollards and garden edging.

The message was simple: the wood products industry has to look closely at adjusting what

and how they’re manufacturing to meet changes in consumer demands and to stay in touch with the competition.

With this in mind, FIEA has been working closely with leading technology providers around the world and R&D organisations that have research programs directly relevant to the local industry.

The focus is on new products that have been commercialised and could be adopted by forestry and wood products companies in Australasia – from solid wood – through to panel products.

Wood Innovations 2012 will run in both New Zealand and Australia in mid-October.

“The list of innovators and technology providers taking part in this first Australasian event is comprehensive”, says Brent Apthorp.

“We’ve been able to identify some of the most innovative products out in the marketplace at the moment. Major tech providers and R&D specialists from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Germany, Finland, Austria, the USA and Canada have already committed to the program.”

With growing opportunities in wood modification, one of the leading authorities on wood acetylation, John Alexander, head of product development for Accys Technologies, UK, will be presenting along with a leading team from a German university who have been at the forefront of new developments in wood modification in Europe for more than 20 years.

A New Zealand company which has been working with European wood working businesses to promote fortified or hardened wood will also be detailing the process and their experience in commercialising a local technology on

Cont Page 11

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EVENTS

Building for the future .. complete wood framework systems developed from natural raw material utilising glulam, CLT wood and construction timber components.

Future Build: an eco-event aimed at ‘sustainability’

IN response to the increasing demand for an eco-event for the complete construction industry, Australian Exhibitions and Conferences has announced the launch of Future Build 2012 to be staged in Melbourne from October 2 to 4.

With foundation partner the Master Builders Association of Victoria and endorsed by the City of Melbourne, Future Build will attract multi-disciplinary key decision makers, architects, specifiers, assets managers and facility managers from a broad range of industry sectors.

As the world transitions to a lower carbon economy, materials, practices and processes in commercial design and construction will reflect changing values and priorities. What these will be is an interesting and potentially vital question. Described as

It will be unlike current conferences that offer an exhibition or trade shows that have accompanying seminars

“Australia’s only eco event for the complete commercial construction industry”, the event provides glimpses of what may unfold.

Spreading over the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Future Build – with sponsorship support from WoodSolutions – will be Australia’s first ‘complete experience’ event with a focus on the latest sustainable building technologies and solutions specifically for commercial applications.

The products exhibited include building structures, renewable energy products and services, finishing products and materials, ustainable building products and materials and building technologies and systems.

It will be unlike current conferences that offer an exhibition or trade shows that have accompanying seminars.

Future Build offers a ‘complete experience’ shared equally between a significant, cuttingedge trade expo and a multiconference / seminar program.

Contact Australian Exhibitions and Conferences on (03) 8672 1200 or email: mail@aec.net.au

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 9

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Greens take harsh line on forestry

Prepared to vilify anyone at odds with them

A STORY on Australia’s national broadcaster the ABC revealed the harsh line the Australian Greens party is drawing in the sand. Unless groups that claim to advance environmental interests support its positions, they are vilified. Perhaps recent attacks on the Greens from both sides of politics rattled the leadership?

The ABC’s story on the 7.30 Report program on July 31 quoted Australian Greens party leader Christine Milne declaring that Planet Ark could not endorse a marketing program run by a government-financed Forest Wood Products Research and Development Corporation that demonstrated timber products were sustainable.

InSurAnce..

It’S All In the SelectIon

She railed that Planet Ark was endorsing the Australian Forestry Standard, which sets standards to enable timber businesses to demonstrate their practices are sustainable.

She described the standard as “dodgy”, said it had no credibility and no one respected it.

The only acceptable standard was that set by the Forest Stewardship Council, a body set up by WWF. The 7.30 Report gave her the last word: “It will be the beginning of the end for Planet Ark unless they change direction.”

The program did not examine her complaint. Yet the website of the program endorsed by Planet Ark shows the forestry industry body endorses both forestry schemes.

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Alan Oxley

It also showed the AFS scheme certified 8.5 million ha of Australian forest. The FSC scheme preferred by the Greens certified only 0.75 million ha.

And worldwide, the global scheme whose standards AFS follows, the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Standards (PEFC), certifies twice the amount of forest as FSC. The Australian forestry standard that Planet Ark promotes is world’s best practice. It was created under the rules of Standards Australia, the national standard-setting body, which follows the standards of the International Standards Organisation.

The Forest Stewardship Council system, which Milne prefers, cannot meet Standards Australia’s principles. The key reason is that the FSC is run by WWF and its green associates.

Greenpeace is a member. They can change the standard at will. The rules of Standards Australia do not permit that.

Any change to its standards requires consensus among all parties.

When Milne says AFS is “not credible” and “not respected”, she simply means the Greens disapprove. But why would they oppose approaches that create jobs and foster sustainability?

The answer is simple: ideology.

The Greens oppose any logging in native forests.

They like the FSC standard because it effectively rules it out. That is WWF policy worldwide. But consider the situation in Australia. Vast tracts of forest are already set aside for conservation. This was decreed nearly 20 years ago under the national forest agreements negotiated by the Keating government.

Furthermore, Australian law requires that when native forest is logged, the forestry has to enable regrowth, creating a fresh forest environment so it can be re-logged in the future.

This is world’s best practice, the perfect balance of protection of biodiversity and sustainable harvesting of forest products.

It is also the most effective and cheapest way to sequester carbon.

The Greens don’t want forests sustainably managed: they want them locked up, regardless of the consequences. Not only does this reduce employment – Tasmania is now feeling the crunch from closing down much of its forest industry – it can foster forest die-back and allow massive build-up of fuel stocks that create such hot fires they can destroy the forests, such as we saw in Victoria two years ago.

So Planet Ark gets attacked.

In my opinion, the denunciation by the Greens of those who take a different path smacks of McCarthyism. The electorate can decide if that is the approach it wants at the polls.

But why is the ABC’s 7.30 Report an uncritical vehicle for airing such views?

– Alan Oxley, World Growth chairman [This letter also appeared in The Australian]

The Greens don’t want forests sustainably managed: they want them locked up, regardless of the consequences Page 10 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

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WOOD INNOVATION

EWPs that tick ALL the boxes Engineered wood products manufactured

by EWPAA member companies top the list Increasingly, local companies are recognising that to remain competitive they need to think outside the square.

Austrian firm to chart new panel making process

From Page 8

the world stage.

For wood plastic composites, a US company which is one of the principal suppliers of plastics and fillers for the WPC industry – as well as assisting in developing new WPC production facilities in China – will be outlining growth opportunities with this product line at wood innovation series.

In engineered wood products, a relatively young Austrian company Dascanova that has already picked up numerous international awards for its new panel manufacturing process and a Canadian company with patented manufacturing processes for producing structural, cross-laminated timber and flooring products from small sized lumber dimensions will be presenting.

Dascanova technology

German university has been at the forefront of new developments in wood modification in Europe for more than 20 years

redistributes density inside the particleboard, fiberboard, or insulation boards before or during compression. This leads to a higher concentration of particles in the areas subjected to compression and less concentration of particles in the remaining areas.

The result is improved mechanical properties compared to standard woodbased panels with only horizontal density profile.

Wood-based panel producers can save up to 30% on raw materials (wood particles, resin and other chemical components) as well as save on the energy required for production processes such as fibre drying.

To complement new R&D around this panel product, the after-dinner presentation in Melbourne will be given

by Andrew Nieland, business manager of CLT from Land Lease, the company behind the world’s tallest timber high-rise building in Melbourne.

For full details visit www. woodinnovationevents.com The event runs in Melbourne on October 10 and 11 and again in Rotorua on October 16 and 17.

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Consistent QUALITY LOWEST emissions Structurally SOUND and SAFE Wood from 100% LEGAL, CERTIFIED forests GUARANTEED to Australasian Standards JOBS security

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* Independently tested to the highest standard; guaranteed to comply with Australian standards; certified under JAS-ANZ accredited product certification scheme; guaranteed to be safe and to carry the designated design load; complies with the Building Code of Australia; meets safety and quality requirements accepted by unions; meets all Workplace Health & Safety requirements.

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 11

INDUSTRY NEWS

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’ s ’77 d Queensl the 2012 Variety Club of and Varie is ready for the 2012 ty Dalby on e the Dar Club Bush Bash lin from N or g Downs to th Queen Queensland Bush Bash to raise sland.

Mackay in funds for disadvantaged children 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.

Housing finance figures provide positive outlook

Alan Jones 0419 754 681 Don Towerton 0428 745 455 Tim Evans 0417 726 741 Jim Bowden 0401 312 087

HOUSING finance figures released last week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics are another step in the right direction for an industry experiencing a prolonged period of downturn.

Finance for construction of new dwellings increased 4.9% and finance for the purchase of new dwellings increased 9.7% cent in June, seasonally adjusted.

Chief economist for the Master Builders Australia Peter Jones said the figures were a positive sign for the industry, but they needed to continue and accelerate over the coming months.

“There has been a welcome improvement in finance for the purchase and construction of new dwellings. With incentives for new home buyers to take effect in New South Wales later in the year, there could finally be a light at the end of the tunnel for housing,” Mr Jones said.

“While the figures are positive, the industry remains in a very fragile state in the short term.”

He said the new figures were of little comfort for builders who remained in survival mode.

“The industry is certainly not out of the woods just yet,” Mr Jones said. “A sustained recovery is likely to be several months away and coming from a very low base.

“The financial outlook in Europe remains uncertain, which plays heavily on consumer confidence. Further drops in consumer confidence would have a dramatic effect on building industry and undo the improvements seen in June’s figures.

“The new figures are positive, but the Reserve Bank should not rule out further rate cuts if more improvements aren’t

Page 12 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

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We sincerely thanks the following sponsors: Silver sponsors Kennedys Timbers, Queensland Sawmills (John Crooke) Bronze sponsors

The Governor of Queensland Pen elope Wensley ‘flag the start of Brisban s’ e Timber Industry Hoo-Hoo Club’s Variety Bush Bas h project for children ’s charities during World Forestry Day celebrations in Bris bane. Looking on are committee members Alan Jon es (club presiden Don Towerton and t), Tim Evans.

Alan Jones, Trade Builders, Thora Wholesale Timbers, HQPlantations Contributing sponsors Bill Philip; CGU Insurance, Brisbane; Colin Wilson; Bank of Queensland, Ashgrove and Sunnybank; Austbrokers Premier Insurance, Brisbane; Brisbane Hoo-Hoo Timber Industry Club 218 Inc; Tim Evans (Coast to Coast Pacific); Timber&Forestry enews; TimTech Chemicals; Wilson Timbers; Asian-Pacific Marketing; A Class Business Finance; RACQ Caloundra; Contract Electrics Pty Ltd; Eden & Son Body Works; Advanced Timber Systems (Ian Watkins); Pacific Premium Funding Pty Ltd; Chancellors Chartered Accountants; Mark Kapper; Tableland Timbers; Skyline Building Supplies; Zenith Timber; Colin Galley; Steel Pacific; ITreat Timber; Frank Withey; Anderssen Lawyers; IVS Australia; Ringwood & Ply; Slacks Hardwood; Bobbie Thomson; Independent Verification Services Pty Ltd. For more information and to discuss sponsorship options contact one of the committee members:

made in the sector,” Mr Jones added.

Meanwhile, the November 6 US presidential election between President Barack Obama and presumptive Republican challenger Mitt Romney may be decided by a small number of ‘swing’ states – those that could go to either man – where the health of the housing market looms large for voters as they weigh their choice.

A Reuters examination of the latest housing data in 10 states that may determine the election’s outcome shows signs of hope in even the most battered real estate markets, notably Florida, with some other key battlegrounds doing much better.

The recovery in home prices in battleground states is good news for the Democratic president as he stays barely ahead of Romney in national opinion polls.

In the northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, home prices in the first quarter of this year rose 5.9% compared to the same period a year earlier, and were up 2.4% for the state as a whole.

The collapse of housing markets around the country played a key role in triggering the financial crisis that dragged the US into recession from 2007 to 2009.

TIMBER TREATMENT

Osmose seminars focus on consumer demands and point-of-sale guarantees

A GROWING interest in coloured treated timber products created a lot of discussion at the first of a series of Osmose product update seminars held in Mount Gambier, SA, last week.

Osmose staff, timber treaters and other industry representatives were given a review of treated timber markets around the world as well as forecasts of future activity by Osmose Australia general manager Elias Akle.

Mr Akle focused on treated timber quality, particularly in relation to consumer expectations and the new Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

Business development manager Nick Livanes explained the new ACL provisions for the statutory consumer guarantee and how that interacted with any additional guarantees or warranties offered by manufacturers.

In particular, Mr Livanes spoke about the Osmose treated wood guarantee and explained that there were specific requirements in the ACL for wording of the guarantee and, of more concern, requirements for availability of the guarantee at the point of sale in some circumstances.

This requirement for availability of the guarantee would need some novel approaches by industry, he said.

The guest speaker John Kassebaum from Biosecurity SA explained the South Australian requirements for the introduction of Restricted Chemical Product (RCP) status for CCA in that state.

Essentially, Biosecurity SA requires all users of CCA (plant operators) to have suitable training as agreed by the various state agencies. This training would be audited by Biosecurity SA at some point in the future.

It was explained that CCA RCP

provisions were different in each state with some requiring licensing of users and others auditing of plant requirements.

All attendees agreed that the seminar was a compact and certainly of use to their businesses.

Mount Gambier seminar .. Elias Akle, general manager, Osmose Australia (left) confers with John Kassebaum ofBiosecurity SA .

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Osmose held a similar seminar in Melbourne last Friday with seminars also scheduled for Brisbane on August 14 at the Novotel Brisbane Airport and in Sydney on August 17 a the Parkroyal Parramatta.

issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 13

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• 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 234 | 13.08.12

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FORESTRY AND FOREST MACHINERY

CRC research bulletin compares volume losses for different harvesting heads.

Recovering more volume, value with shear heads

EXAMINING volume losses when using different fellerbuncher harvesting heads is the subject of a new CRC for Forestry bulletin (Bulletin 22, March 2012) by Martin Strandgard and Rick Mitchell).

The bulletin compares shear, hot saw (continuous disc saw) and chainsaw felling heads operating in Eucalyptus nitens and globulus pulpwood plantations.

The research compares the heads in terms of estimated volume and value lost in stumps and saw kerf during harvesting.

Other aspects such as productivity, site impacts and fire risk were also considered.

The results showed that using shear heads can recover more

volume and value per hectare than other feller-buncher heads due to lower stump heights and a lack of saw kerf.

Chainsaw heads were better suited to larger trees and stands producing sawlogs. The value lost per hectare due to stumps and saw kerf, assuming a yield of 230 cub m/ha and stumpage of $ 30 cub m, was $251 for the chainsaw, $203 for the hot saw and $16 for the shear.

The bulletin also discusses the disadvantages and advantages of using the three types of feller-buncher heads.

Visit www.crcforestry.com.au for more research activities carried out by the CRC for Forestry.

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

Comparisons .. shear, hot saw and chainsaw felling heads.

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 15

FORESTS AND FOREST MACHINERY

We must prevent this castration of forest research before it’s too late

In many ways, FWPA is the industry’s last hope

IT’S great to receive your emails. Some of the language was is a bit strident but there’s a lot of anger out there, particularly over the shabby treatment of the forest industry by the federal government.

I was pleased, yet saddened, to see among the emails one from Peter Rutherfold, managing director of South East Fibre Exports. (Hope you don’t mind me mentioning your name, Peter).

He wrote in relation to my last column commenting on the potential for the use of biomass for renewable energy production. South East Fibre Exports has been well and truly dudded by the current government after having spent millions on developing capacity to use waste biomass to generate electricity, only to have the Labor-Green alliance exclude biomass from renewable energy targets.

We feel your pain, Peter. All I can say is hang on in there .. it is looking increasingly likely we are heading for a brighter political day in about a year and a bit from now so you might yet be able to get a sensible outcome and make a valuable contribution to Australia’s renewable energy targets.

Sorry, I went off a bit there, but you just have to shake your head at the stupidly of some government policy.

For this week I want to say something about the current issue before the industry related to the ongoing role and funding of Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA).

It’s easy for me to say – I don’t have to write out the cheque – but the equivocation of industry captains in relation to the continuation of adequate funding support for FWPA is completely disappointing, and

Page 16 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

State forest agencies once had significant research capacity, but now, with the exception of the outstanding Queensland forest and timber research campus, state forestry R&D is no more.

short-sighted if I may say so.

In many ways, FWPA is the forest industry’s last great hope.

State and federal governments have castrated forestry research right around the country over the past decade or so.

State forest agencies once had significant capacity, but now with the notable exception of the outstanding Queensland forest and timber research campus at Salisbury, state forestry R&D is no more. Also, remember the days of the Forestry and Forest Products

I wouldn’t interpret the decision by the federal government to contribute $2.5m toward the establishment of a National Centre for Future Forest Industries as a five-to-midnight recognition of the value of forestry research

Deep in the Woods with ..

Cheryle Forrester Divisions of CSIRO? Well they have gone the same way.

To complete the destruction of any prospects that the forest industry might regain its international reputation and competitiveness the federal government that seems to hate forestry as much as they now

profess to hate the Greens has as we know decided not to support the ongoing funding of the CRC for Forestry in Tassie.

To paint in all the facts, the government has now decided to give some interim funding for the establishment of a National Centre for Future Forest Industries. But the CRC is still to be terminated in a few months.

I wouldn’t interpret the decision of the federal government to contribute $2.5 million towards the setting up of the National Centre for Future Forest Industries as a five-to-midnight recognition of the value of forestry research; it appears to be more about trying to cuddle up to Andrew Willkie after having shafted him on the agreement to address problem gambling.

What a cynical girl I have become!

But returning to the point I want to make about FWPA. For the first time in the industry’s history we have seen the development, funding and expansion of a timber products promotion campaign aimed at both consumers and specifiers. Always difficult to gauge I know, but the Wood Naturally Better and Wood Solutions campaigns have certainly given timber products a profile not previously enjoyed, including the singular ability of forests and timber products to trumpet their store carbon and contribution to climate change abatement credentials.

If that activity is chopped off most of the effort to date will count for nought and if generic marketing attracts funding in the future is will be right back to square one. Read

Cont Page 17

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FORESTS AND FOREST MACHINERY

‘Just this close’ to a resolution on forest peace deal in Tasmania

By JIM BOWDEN

ALTHOUGH long-running talks to strike a peace deal for Tasmania’s forests have failed, with signatories unable to meet an August 6 deadline for a final agreement, sections of industry believe a satisfactory resolution is waiting in the wings.

Industry and environmental groups involved have called on the federal and state governments to facilitate a final agreement to reduce the amount of native forest logging in the state.

The groups will not say what the key sticking points are, but said the plan they had almost settled on did not provide enough timber for the industry.

Terry Edwards from the Forest Industries Association says the issues which need sorting out are “significant”.

The parties met last Friday with federal Minister for Sustainability Tony Mr Burke and Deputy Premier Bryan Green and they expect a deal, if any, will be announced early this week.

The breakdown in the talks came after revised data and modelling on wood supply showed it wasn’t possible to deliver the bottom lines of both sides. It had been hoped the modelling would show it was possible to protect about

525,000 ha of native forests while still delivering an annual sawlog harvest of more than 140,000 cub m.

For the second time in the negotiations, this means one or both sides will have to dramatically scale down their already modified expectations because of the revised wood supply data.

Tasmanian Forest Contractors Association executive officer Ed Vincent told T&F enews reports that parties in the dispute had “walked away” from the peace negotiations were pure speculation.

“Many people will be surprised just how close this is to resolution; what we’re talking about is the wood supply figure and the differences represent a

‘We can deal with good news and even bad news, but uncertainty is the most disconcerting and contractors have lived with uncertainty for about five years’ – Ed Vincent

Ed Vincent .. it’s all about wood supply.

relatively small percentage,” Mr Vincent said.

“Peace deal discussions have been incredibly complex – but the key issue is wood supply.”

Mr Vincent said it was obvious everyone in the forest industry was edgy.

“We can deal with good news and even bad news, but uncertainty is the most disconcerting and contractors have lived with uncertainty for about five years.

“There will be forest reserves; we knew this from the day we walking into the process.”

He said the reality was that Tasmanian native forest contractors had lost close to $200 million in the sector over the last six or seven years, and

those sort of losses could not continue.

At least 50 forest contract crews had left the industry.

“Many of these contractors received exit assistance from federal government programs.

About $45 million was rolled out over the last nine months and there was a previous package 12 months prior to this.”

Meanwhile, Gunns Ltd has admitted for the first time it lacks confidence its flagship $2.3 billion pulp mill will go ahead.

The bitterly divisive Tamar Valley project has failed to find a backer despite repeated upbeat claims by the company, and is unfinanced nearly eight years after it was first proposed.

The state has been struggling to adjust to plunging demand for the native forest woodchips that once sustained Gunns, and at the same time end the 30-year forest wars.

Green groups hoped to gain protection for about half a million hectares of native forest, and the Gillard government put together a $276 million package, mainly to assist thousands of timber workers whose jobs were lost in Gunns’ shift out of native forests to what was planned to be a plantation-based pulp mill.

This is not the time to go weak at the knees From Page 16

the McDonald’s marketing manual. It highlights two important things – repetition and persistence.

It will be a tragic blow to the industry – as if we need another one – if we don’t collectively have the courage and commitment to continue to financially support

the FWPA effort.

We know we are presently in difficult trading circumstances, but this is not the time to go weak at the knees. A failure to continue to fund FWPA – at

least to allow its present level of activity to be maintained – will mean that the market expansion, when it comes – and it will – will go to European and South American timber product suppliers who will be increasing

competitive because they haven’t dropped the research and marketing ball.

Don’t let that happen – we are really smarter than that.

Catch up next time.

This section is supported by the Australian Forest Contractors Association

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 17

EVENTS

Happy faces of children greet Hoo-Hoo drivers Alan and Tim on the Bush Bash

Brisbane Club 218 raises $15,000 on run from Dalby to Mackay

BRISBANE Hoo-Hoo Timber Industry Club 218 members have completed their 4000 km run to Mackay in north Queensland for the Variety Bash, arriving in the sugar city at the weekend.

Co-pilots of the club’s 1977 Holden Kingswood Alan Jones (president) and Tim Evans (social director) joined more than 400 drivers at the starting point in the cotton country at Dalby on August 2 for the 10-day ‘bash’ to Mackay in Queensland’s tropical north.

The 2012 Cotton and Cane Bash was staged by Variety Queensland to raise funds to assist in bringing about an improved quality of life for special children in the state.

Since the first Queensland Bash in 1990, in excess of $15 million has been raised to help empower special Queensland kids to live, laugh and learn.

Brisbane Club 218 has so far raised more than $15,000 for the charity – remarkable support from an industry battling tough times.

As the sun rose on the starting point at Dalby, early onlookers were treated to a variety of decorated vehicles – the Black Cat Hoo-Hoo car number 253, Big Bird, the Winged Angels, Elmo, Cookie Monster, Purple People Eaters and Disney Princesses – all joined by an array of old and new Bashers, including two Whippets, some Aussie Rockers and

Page 18 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

the Simpsons.

The trek took the drivers from Dalby on a bush bash track that took in the towns of Kilkivan, Agnes Water, Moura, Roma, Tambo, Clermont, Yeppoon and then on to Mackay.

Calling in from the town of Dingo in the Central Highlands, Tim Evans said the opportunity to meet with needy children along the way “had brought a few lumps to the throat” but the event had been “bloody great fun”.

“There are some marvellous billy lids from the real Australia out here,” he said.

“The bash so far has been a most enjoyable experience – both humbling and uplifting to see such happy children and to see those kids less fortunate get such wonderful help.”

He said camping at night in some locations was trying; temperatures at the Kilkivan camping ground were minus 6 degrees.

“There was ice under the ground sheet and our tent crunched and crackled when we rolled it up.

“As for today, it’s plenty of gravel through to state forests on magnificent roads built to sustainably supply that magnificent product – wood!”

Tim said he had caught up with an owner-driver and his wife who were participating in a mint condition vintage 1936 Bentley.

“No, slouches to this sort of

Dingo school teacher Angela Collier and teacher’s aide Kimberly York bring out the children to greet the Brisbane Hoo-Hoo Club 218 Holden Kingswood during the Variety Bush Bash.

event, they recently completed a run in the old girl in the Paristo-Dakar rally.

Tim’s most recent message said the Hoo-Hoo drivers were ‘slumming it’ at the Mercure Capricorn Resort at Yeppoon for two days of R&R before the final run to Mackay.

Safe trip home, brothers. sponsors ($2000): Silver Kennedys Timbers, Queensland Sawmills (John Crooke).

Bronze sponsors ($1000): Alan Jones, Trade Builders, Thora Wholesale Timbers, HQPlantations Pty Ltd Contributing sponsors: Bill Philip; CGU Insurance, Brisbane; Colin Wilson; Bank of Queensland, Ashgrove and Sunnybank; Austbrokers Premier Insurance, Brisbane; Brisbane Hoo-Hoo Timber Industry Club 218 Inc; Tim Evans (Coast to Coast Pacific); Timber&Forestry enews; TimTech Chemicals;

Wilson Timbers; Asian-Pacific Marketing; A Class Business Finance; RACQ Caloundra; Contract Electrics Pty Ltd; Eden & Son Body Works; Advanced Timber Systems (Ian Watkins); Pacific Premium Funding Pty Ltd; Chancellors Chartered Accountants; Mark Kapper; Tableland Timbers; Skyline Building Supplies; Zenith Timber; Colin Galley; Steel Pacific; ITreat Timber; Frank Withey; Anderssen Lawyers; IVS Australia; Ringwood & Ply; Slacks Hardwood; Bobbie Thomson; Independent Verification Services Pty Ltd. Sponsorship options are still open and can be discussed with committee members Alan Jones 0419 754 681, Don Towerton 0428 745 455, Tim Evans 0417 726 741, or Jim Bowden 0401 312 087.

Pictures by Tim Evans.

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EVENTS

Variety Bush Bash: a run for funds and fun

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | 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 234 | 13.08.12

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Chopper Roller Field Day Wednesday 29th August

A demonstration of cost‐effective thinning in over‐stocked spotted gum regrowth forest. The chopper roller is used to cut and flatten woody debris in strips through dense regrowth forest, creating access for management activities between the strips. The main advantage of the chopper roller is improving access for thinning out the retained forest between strips. In the right circumstances the chopper roller can also improve the economics of thinning, improve access for fire management and speed‐up the breakdown of large woody harvest debris. The chopper roller is highly manoeuvrable and, with appropriate forest management practices can help landholders improve the productivity and health of their regrowth

Location: Miva on the Bauple Woolooga Road, turn west off Bruce Hwy , approx 17km to Munna Miva Road. (Look for the ‘Field Day’ signs on Bauple Woolooga Road ) Time: 9.00am ‐ 3.00pm RSVP: pfsq @bigpond.com or Ph: 54836535 What to bring: Bring along a packed lunch, a water bottle and a chair. Morning tea will be provided. You will also need to wear closed shoes.

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issue 234 | 13.08.12 | Page 21

Timber & Forestry e news is published

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Classified Ad Custom Group Advertising: Tel Publishing +61 7 3266 1429 Email: cancon@bigpond.net.au Page 22 | issue 234 | 13.08.12

Production T: 0439 417Email: 671 203cancon@bigpond.net.au | 12.12.11 | PAGE 15 Advertising: Tel +61 7 3266 1429ISSUE

T: (07) 3266 1429

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