NZ Logger September 2024

September 2024 | 9.50

ISSN 2703-6251

g n i h c a e r g n o l

A salvage race against time

Forgotten tools of our trade

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contents

SEPTEMBER 2024

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FOREST TALK Lifeline needed for North Island mills; Restoring credibility to the ETS; Unlocking the Indian market; Focus on biodiversity; Support for gene technology reform; Milestone in tree breeding genetics; Boosting native forest research; Pass Wide And Slow; Celebrating 100 years; Tackling the toughest; NZFP reunion; New options in mechanised planting; Time for an Energy-Grade log?

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SHAW’S WIRE ROPES IRON TEST New engine, new pump, new control system, all hoses out of the cab, new rear-entry cab, new windscreen design, more track power, dual slew motors… McCormick Logging’s Next Gen Cat 568 has got it all!

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LOOKING BACK Cant hooks, pinch bars and snig chains... forgotten tools of our trade.

Not forgotten by Jim Childerstone as he takes us back in time and asks, “Where have all the sawmills gone?”.

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BREAKING OUT When Flight Logging’s Gordon Flight brought down the last tree in the Central North Island forests managed by NZFM that had been damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle, it marked the end of an extraordinary 16-month salvage operation.

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September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 1

from the editor September 2024 | 9.50

ng-reaching

ISSN 1176-0397

PHOTO: TIM BENSEMAN

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Forgotten tools of our trade

A salvage race against time

Operator, Jacob Keefe, processing in McCormick Logging’s Next Gen Cat 568.

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The answer is in the trees RESIDUES TO REVENUES? FOR SURE, IF THE RECENT ROTORUA CONFERENCE is anything to go by. Wasted potential was the message from many speakers but others asked if turning biomass into profits really is the golden goose we were promised. While the benefits thus far have primarily been non-financial – removing slash from high-risk sites (and we explore an ambitious project of this nature in our Breaking Out feature this month) – making the most of our forest waste is all about cost and scale, said one speaker.

Picking up residues is expensive. Collection and transport need to be refined. Markets need to change. Perhaps it’s even time for an Energy-Grade log (turn to our Forest Talk pages for more on that). Yes, the potential is there and already being tapped. The means to fully achieve it? For starters, said one speaker, we need more sawmills.

Now there’s a touchy subject. “Where have all the sawmills gone?”

Jim Childerstone asks in our Looking Back feature as he reminds us of the forgotten tools of our trade. Some 50 New Zealand sawmills have closed over the last 20 years. Reasons range from a slowing construction sector and resulting decreased demand, to bigger mills pushing out smaller operators, minimal, if any, support from Government for those operators who made it through COVID, and exorbitant energy costs – currently being cited by Winstone Pulp International as it contemplates closing its Tangiwai and Karioi mills (more on that over the page).

Ironic then that our very own forestry slash could be powering those mills. Modern bioenergy is “the giant” of renewable energy, said one speaker from Scion at the conference. From liquid biofuels to power and heat, pharmaceuticals and traditional use of biomass – most of it comes from harvest residues and K-Grade logs, with some supplementation from short rotation forestry. We may have a long way to go but it’s time to “pick the low hanging fruit”, said another speaker. “Anything made from fossil fuels today can be made from trees tomorrow.”

What everyone agreed on is that we can’t just sit around and wait for it to happen. We need to innovate, take risks, make mistakes, lead the way and make the politicians listen. From a teenager turning forestry waste into plant pots, to the promise of unlimited power for generations to come, the Residues to Revenues conference did make one promise – our trees hold all the answers.

Until next time, stay safe.

t

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forest talk

Lifeline needed for North Island mills FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, WINSTONE PULP INTERNATIONAL, has paused work at its two sites, Tangiwai Sawmill and Karioi Pulp Mill, with the intention of shutting its entire operation, citing unaffordable energy costs.

Winstone Pulp Chief Executive, Mike Ryan, says energy prices have increased from $100 per megawatt hour (MWh) in September 2021 to $500 per MWh in August 2024. With power making up more than 40% of the company’s costs, the increase can’t be passed on to customers, he says.

“For comparison, our overseas competitors are paying between NZD60 to NZD100/MWhr. At the same time, other input costs remain high and market prices for pulp and timber are relatively low and under pressure.”

With 230 jobs in jeopardy, Mr Ryan says consultation is underway, with all staff given the option of taking voluntary redundancy and set to remain on full pay during the consultation period.

He adds that the company has attempted to avoid the situation.

By measures such as improving production and energy efficiency and energy price hedging.

The closure is expected to impact earnings at the Port of Napier with much of the mill’s pulp and timber shipped there.

Another cargo customer of Napier Port, forest product company Pan Pac, has restarted pulp production in a limited capacity after a temporary shutdown, also as a result of energy costs.

Ruapehu Mayor, Weston Kirton, says as the largest employer in the Ruapehu District, the mill’s potential closure has sent shockwaves through the community and could have severe local and national repercussions.

“The Winstone Pulp Mill is crucial to the central North Island economy and New Zealand’s overall economic health,” says Mayor Kirton.

The potential closure of the Mill would be a devastating blow, not only to the local and regional economy but also to New Zealand’s already limited value-added manufacturing base, he says, adding, “In a country where most of our electricity is produced from renewable resources, mainly rain, this situation is unacceptable

Ruapehu Mayor, Weston Kirton.

and highlights systemic and policy failures.”

Mayor Kirton is calling on the government to act with urgency to ensure the mill remains operational: “The importance of the Winstone Pulp Mill to the central North Island economy is comparable to the Tiwai Aluminium smelter’s significance to Southland, which also faced closure due to long-term energy costs. With the government focused on growth and employment, a major export-earning employer should not be allowed to fail due to internal policy settings.”

A final decision on the closure is expected this month.

Further jeopardy Meanwhile, another 75 workers at OJI Fibre Solution’s Penrose Pulp Mill have been informed that the mill is likely to close by mid-December. The mill, which turns recycled paper and card into pulp, will close pending consultation. Union representatives are calling on Government to urgently step in and save the mill by reducing wholesale energy costs in any way possible.

“This has come like a bolt out of the blue for workers and was completely unexpected,” says FIRST Union’s Justin Wallace.

“Another crazy outcome of the proposal is that New Zealand recycled paper and cardboard will now be shipped to Malaysia for pulping and then back to New Zealand instead of being processed in Penrose,” he adds.

OJI Fibre has given the workers and their unions one month to provide feedback on the proposal to close the mill as required by the collective agreement it has with the FIRST and E tū unions.

“The workers and unions are working on a proposal to challenge the intention to close,” says Mr Wallace. “If Penrose were the first to go, they wouldn’t be the last.

“We will also be raising with the government the issue of the exorbitant prices that electricity and other energy companies are charging, which has been made worse by the privatisation of energy companies under the Key government.”

Workers in many other manufacturing companies are facing vulnerable employment due to high energy costs. NZL

4 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

2024_07

forest talk

Restoring credibility to the ETS THE NEW ZEALAND INSTITUTE OF FORESTRY (NZIF) SAYS THE government’s recent update of settings for the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a crucial move in restoring confidence within the market and the forestry sector.

Climate Change Minister, Simon Watts, confirmed Government’s decision to retain the current auction price floor, the cost containment reserve price, and the existing reserve volumes in the ETS. Additionally, the number of units available will be reduced between 2025 and 2029, signalling a commitment to strengthening the ETS framework.

James Treadwell, President of the NZIF, is optimistic about the government’s approach, highlighting its importance in stabilising the market: “This announcement is a clear signal from Government that it is committed to restoring credibility to the ETS. The stability provided by maintaining the current settings, along with the reduction in units available, should help rebuild market confidence, which has been shaken in recent years.”

He adds that the previous suggestion of lowering the price floor had significantly undermined the market, leading to a decrease in carbon prices and a drop in planting and investment intentions.

“There is still more to be done, but this move is a positive start. It’s crucial that Government continues to support the ETS and allows it to operate effectively without further disruptions.

“With a stable ETS and a rising price for carbon units, we expect to see increased investment in the actions necessary to meet New Zealand’s international climate commitments. Forestry, as outlined in the government’s climate strategy, will play a critical role in achieving

these goals in an economically and environmentally sustainable manner. For the sector to make the long-term decisions required to meet the government’s afforestation targets, maintaining stability and confidence in the ETS is essential.”

The Climate Forestry Association’s Chief Executive, Andrew Cushen, adds: “This message from Government that it wants to retain the status quo and return credibility to the ETS will be a welcome relief for the market.

“We are still seeing the lingering effects of the undermining of this market by the previous government. The unfortunate decision to raise the possibility of a reduction in the price floor had done further damage to the sector, depressing the price of carbon and resulting in plummeting planting and investment intentions.

“This announcement will start returning confidence to the climate forestry sector, provided the ETS responds to the price signals, and the government maintains its commitment to allowing the ETS to operate as it should without further inference.

“With a stable market going forward, and a growing price for carbon units in the ETS, we would hope to see greater investment in the range of actions we need to see to meet our international climate commitments.

“As the government’s climate strategy reflects, forestry has a key role to play in meeting our climate commitments and ambitions in a manner that is economically and ecologically sensible. Given the long-term nature of the decisions the sector needs to take to support the government’s afforestation targets, we would hope to see that stability and confidence maintained in the future.” NZL

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forest talk From left: Member (Customs) Surjit Bhujabal; Chairman Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal and Principal Commissioner (Customs) Vimal Kumar Srivastava.

Unlocking the Indian market

ents, for the diameter. This heavy AGRICULTURE AND TRADE MINISTER, TODD MCCLAY, TOOK A trip to India last month for a forestry, agriculture and trade visit to strengthen relationships, unlock opportunities and promote New Zealand businesses.

This followed the State visit of Indian President, Her Excellency Droupadi Murmu, to New Zealand.

“India is an important partner for New Zealand, and the government is committed to achieving a step-up in our relationship,” says Mr McClay.

“We are developing deeper and stronger engagement across all facets of the relationship, including in food and fibre exports which hit $213 million last year.

“Government has set the aspirational target of doubling exports by value in 10 years, and unlocking the Indian market of 1.4 billion people will play a pivotal role in achieving this.

“Growing our trade relationships will boost New Zealand’s economy, lift incomes, reduce the cost of living and provide the public services Kiwis deserve.”

In Delhi, Mr McClay met with his counterpart, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, for their fifth in-person meeting in nine months. He also met with Ministers responsible for agriculture and primary industries as well as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendrabhai Patel.

“Discussions on the full breadth of New Zealand’s agricultural and trade relationship with India included areas where increased cooperation can build a stronger food and fibre sector relationship and support commercial opportunities in both directions – unlocking

opportunities to share insights and expertise across a range of sectors,” Mr McClay says.

“New Zealand and India share a warm relationship and I’m confident both countries can build stronger food and fibre sectors, support commercial opportunities, and foster conditions that spur growth on both sides.”

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Further cooperation Meanwhile, a formal Customs arrangement, signed last month, will further strengthen ties between New Zealand and India to ease trade and increase enforcement cooperation.

Chief Executive of the New Zealand Customs Service, Ms Christine Stevenson, and Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs of India, Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, signed a Customs Cooperative Arrangement (CCA) at a virtual signing ceremony.

The Arrangement will assist both agencies to target, prevent and investigate criminal activities at their respective borders through improved information sharing. This will help prevent the ongoing harm caused by transnational organised crime groups.

The Arrangement will also enable the exchange of ideas on new customs procedures, technology and best practices, and help to resolve any potential issues with trade between the countries.

“Through the signing, our intent is this will help to remove trade barriers and establish a framework for smoother, easier bilateral trade. As one of the largest and fastest growing economies in the world, India offers many opportunities for New Zealand traders,” Ms Stevenson says. NZL

Focus on biodiversity

ABZECO HAS JOINED THE PF OLSEN Group. Abzeco is a diverse team of qualified and experienced zoologists, botanists, habitat restoration practitioners and pest managers. They provide consultancy services with practical ‘hands-on’ know-how, which complements the holistic forestry services offered by PF Olsen.

Key services offered by ABZECO include the assessment, management and restoration of biodiversity offset sites. Their bush crew is also actively involved with restoring areas

of endangered grasslands on the western fringes of Melbourne.

Abzeco recently worked with PF Olsen (Australia) to develop the Landscape Biodiversity Improvement Plan (LBIP) for a client by reviewing all the biodiversity information held and synthesising it into a prioritised 10-year management plan. The advice focused investment to areas that would generate the most impact to improve biodiversity values and, in turn, create value for the client.

ents, for the 6 NZ LOGGER | September 2024 diameter. This heavy at set it apart from

Another project involved the removal of woody weeds within the highest priority patch of natural forest at Eaglehawk plantation, South Australia. NZL

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STANDARD CONFIGURATION

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IMPERIAL

Weight

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5,400 lbs

Height

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85”

Depth

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77”

Width (Arms Closed)

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56”

Width (Arms Open)

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forest talk

Biotech and genetic engineering are critical tools in our fight against climate change, says Scion.

Support for gene technology reform NEW ZEALAND CAN NO LONGER AFFORD TO SHY AWAY FROM THE transformative potential of cutting-edge genetic technologies, says Dr Alec Foster, who heads Scion’s Bioproducts and Packaging portfolio.

New gene technology reforms announced last month have been welcomed by Scion for their ability to advance research and create a cleaner, greener and more prosperous New Zealand.

A vocal advocate for regulatory reform, Dr Foster says, “A Bill that allows for greater use of gene technology will enable New Zealand to embrace these technologies as a key tool for achieving important environmental and societal goals while also improving productivity.

“Gene Technologies offer enormous opportunity for tackling challenges like reducing methane emissions from agriculture and achieving net-zero emissions targets.

“The world around us is rapidly evolving and this announcement is a step change in New Zealand being able to solve these challenges using biotechnology, as well as supporting various industries to deliver new high-value products and be more competitive on the international stage.”

Through favourable biotech regulations, other countries are already well ahead of us, he says. By 2040, Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, projects a $19.2 billion benefit and 31,200 new jobs from gene editing in the food and agriculture sectors alone.

The United States is investing billions and aims to replace 30% of chemicals and 90% of plastics with biotechnology-derived alternatives by leveraging genetic engineering and bioengineering tools, using various biomass streams as feedstock. Even the European Union, long cautious about genetically modified crops, has followed the UK and recently voted to ease regulations to maintain crop yields, reduce chemical inputs, and bolster food security amid climate change.

In New Zealand to date, gene technologies have been used but restrictive rules and time-consuming processes have made research outside the lab almost impossible, says Dr Foster.

The new Bill, which allows for greater use of gene technology while ensuring strong protections for the health and safety of people and the environment, will be introduced to Parliament by the end of this year.

The decision to update New Zealand’s gene technology rules follows consultation with industry and guidance from a Technical Advisory Group.

Dr Foster says New Zealand now stands to reap economic advantages comparable to Australia, given the similarities in agricultural sectors.

“Beyond agriculture, gene editing and genetic engineering hold promise in sectors like forestry, where Scion is at the forefront of pioneering research. One of Scion’s key projects involves developing sterile pine trees that cannot reproduce sexually, addressing the long-standing issue of wilding pines invading and degrading our natural ecosystems. This innovative approach could enable us to enjoy the economic benefits of plantation forestry while mitigating its environmental risks.

“Scion is also exploring the potential to enhance carbon capture by trees, a critical tool in our fight against climate change. By modifying genes that control growth rates and biomass accumulation, researchers aim to create trees that can sequester significantly more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.”

But the opportunities presented by gene technology reform extend far beyond agriculture and forestry, he says. From developing bioplastics and renewable chemicals to engineering microbes for wastewater remediation and carbon sequestration, genetic engineering could “catalyse the transition toward a truly circular bioeconomy, enabling New Zealand to move away from our reliance on petrochemicals and fossil fuels”.

“Away from plants we are exploring many of these avenues with microbes. We are looking at scaling technologies that utilise carbon dioxide and methane, as well as waste streams from dairy, and converting them in a fermenter with bacteria to produce feed, chemicals, and bioplastics – greener products from more sustainable sources.”

Dr Foster adds that nearly 30 years have passed since New Zealand last debated the need for genetic engineering: “Since then, there is a wealth of evidence and real-world examples that illustrate the profound impact genetic engineering can have on our economy, environment, and even the health of New Zealanders.” NZL

8 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

NZ Log

forest talk

Milestone in tree breeding genetics RAPID, LESS EXPENSIVE AND HIGHLY accurate genetic information of tree DNA sampled in the RPBC breeding programme is within reach.

RPBC, in collaboration with AgResearch and GenomNZ, has developed its latest iteration of the Radiata Pine SNPchip for routine operational Genomic Selection.

A SNPchip is a sliver of glass with small pits etched into it. These pits each hold a sequence of genetic information called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) or DNA markers. When a tiny amount of DNA is passed through these pits, usually extracted from substances such as plant matter, DNA fingerprints of each individual are recorded. Such DNA fingerprints from SNPchip technology are seen as a ‘go to’ tool for collating and preserving genetic information in a range of sectors.

“The new SNPchip underwent a robust development and proving phase with close to 1,000 radiata pine seedlings revalidated with the new and old SNPchip,” says RPBC’s R&D Manager and Geneticist Sai Arojju.

“The results were consistent between both the platforms, producing high call rates with low missing DNA markers, a key success indicator.”

The number of unique DNA markers on the new SNPchip platform sits at around 8,000, which is more than sufficient to perform routine operational genomic selection.

Using the new SNPchip, operational genomic selection of 10,000 seedlings in 2024 has been completed successfully.

“Achieving an operationally efficient and reliable genomics pathway is a significant and important milestone in the 70 years of Radiata Pine tree breeding which we are celebrating this year,” says RPBC General Manager, Darrell O’Brien.

“Our collaboration with Crown Research Institutes, Scion and AgResearch, who were instrumental in developing the new SNPchip, has assisted us to rapidly move closer to achieving our overall objective of reducing the radiata pine tree breeding cycle from the traditional 17 years to a nineyear breeding cycle, thus increasing the

AgResearch’s science team leader for GenomNZ, Rayna Anderson. rate of genetic gain over time. Deployment of genetic gain over time has a favourable influence on forest growers’ profitability.”

RPBC is New Zealand’s only specialist radiata pine breeding company and occupies a central position in the forest industry breeding supply chain. NZL

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forest talk

Ella Hayman (Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research senior technician and National Vegetation Survey database manager) carrying a load of recycled plastic waratahs and reflective mats for establishing the first one-hectare plot in Waitutu Forest. Photo: Alex Fergus.

Boosting native forest research

TRIALS COLLECTING DATA ON FORESTS using helicopter-mounted hi-tech 3D lasers are underway, which could have significant benefits for climate change mitigation and conservation.

“We need to make the most of the latest, most accurate and efficient tools for measuring forest carbon and forest health at a large scale,” says Terry Greene, DOC Science Monitoring Advisor.

“Knowing the size of the trees in our forests is crucial for our national carbon reporting and forest management.

“Traditionally, we’ve used manual instruments to measure tree heights. Now we have more sophisticated measuring technology, such as remote sensing, at our disposal.

“However, we need to do rigorous testing and ground-truthing to ensure the new technology is giving us accurate data on the size of trees.”

DOC has contracted Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research scientists to do the trials.

Manaaki Whenua recently established a one-hectare indigenous forest field test site in Waitutu Forest, Fiordland, working with Waitutu Incorporation and Interpine Innovation (a Rotorua-based forestry service).

A second test site is currently being established in the Coromandel, and Manaaki Whenua will set up six more test sites across New Zealand over the next two years.

James Shepherd, lead researcher and Manaaki Whenua senior scientist, says joining up remotely sensed data and ground measurements is a challenge, especially in New Zealand, given the range of terrain, ecosystem types and tree species.

“For all the test sites, on-the-ground teams will use laser technology (LiDAR) technology to obtain data across the forest

floor, while either a helicopter or a fixed wing plane collects LiDAR data from above the same area.

“Data from the ground and the air is stitched together, creating digital images of the forest structure. It also provides positions of individual trees with a high degree of accuracy.

“As a follow up, to test the effectiveness of the technology and collect valuable ground-based data, field teams will return to the forest and measure and identify all the trees within the plot.”

This research will also enable Manaaki Whenua to produce maps to help researchers, landowners and businesses with the management of carbon storage and emissions in native ecosystems.

Mr Greene says the research and data produced will mean any future remote sensing methods – not just LiDAR – can be ground-truthed at these sites. NZL

Pass Wide And Slow PASS WIDE AND SLOW IS A WORLDWIDE MESSAGE THAT equestrians are promoting as the New Zealand Equestrian Advocacy Network (NZEAN) campaigns for a change in transport legislation to formally recognise horse riders as a Vulnerable Road User.

The NZEAN, with the support of New Zealand Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA), Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ), the New Zealand Pony Club Association (NZPCA) and Te Hapori Hōiho – National Māori Horse Association Aotearoa Trust, is campaigning for meaningful change in the legislation.

“We are doing our bit as an equestrian community to partner with members of the transport sector that have the ability to reduce trauma, serious injury or death on our roads,” says the NZEAN’s Julia McLean.

New Zealand equestrians will be participating in a Worldwide awareness ride on September 14/15 to inform and educate road users on what they require of them. Pass Wide And Slow vests will be rolled out across the country, encouraging riders to be visible while riding on roads. There are rides registered across the country.

“We are currently asking horse riders across the country to share their near-miss stories of riding on the road, because no single agency captures this data. This data will inform our presentation to 10 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

Government. It also means we are learning more about road user behaviours that are putting lives at risk. We ask that the truck driving industry works with us to ensure its network of drivers is informed on what to do, and what not to do,” adds Ms McLean.

“There have recently been two separate incidents where the drivers have failed to slow down, despite the rider’s hand signals. In one incident the truck driver eventually stopped just as the rider fell off in front of the vehicle and in the second the vehicle stopped as the horses were performing, rolled down his window and abused the riders before sounding his horn as he moved away.”

On behalf of equestrians, NZEAN is leading a petition to the House of Representatives seeking the legislative change. NZL

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forest talk

Celebrating 100 years CATERPILLAR WILL BE AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE CELEBRATIONS AT next year’s Wheels at Wanaka, marking the centenary of the brand.

Terra Cat CEO, Chris Heaton, says Terra has been a proud platinum partner of the huge three-day event since 2019, and the 2025 event signals both the final year of Wheels at Wanaka, as well as Caterpillar’s centenary.

“With 2025 marking 100 years of Caterpillar, we’re encouraging every owner of a Cat bulldozer – or track-type tractor as we call them today – to bring their pride and joy to next year’s event, and take part in a world record attempt for the most Caterpillar bulldozers in a parade,” Mr Heaton says. “The older the machine, the better!”

As part of the Easter weekend, vintage earthmoving machines that have helped shape New Zealand will be in action alongside their modern counterparts for the Terra Cat Earthmoving Extravaganza.

Wheels at Wanaka 2025 will also host the New Zealand round of the Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge. The winners then have a chance to compete against the world’s best operators at ConExpo in Las Vegas in March 2026.

“This is an opportunity to watch the country’s best Cat operators go head-to-head in a series of skills-based challenges that will test their agility, resilience, versatility and technology skills,” says Mr Heaton.

“There are some world-class operators in New Zealand, and having the chance to prove their skills and progress towards Las Vegas is huge incentive for them.

“Regardless of whether you’re an enthusiast, a spectator or a skilled operator, you won’t want to miss this contest.”

Wheels at Wanaka is an all vehicle, all machinery historyin-motion vintage fair – including steam engines, tractors and farming heritage, cars, motorbikes, trucks, earthmovers and heavy machinery.

With over 50 acres of entertainment, tractor pulling and enduro-X competitions, ATV and rally car demos, an earthmoving extravaganza and a non-stop parade ground programme, it is Australasia’s biggest all-vehicle show.

For information or tickets to the final Wheels at Wanaka show, visit: wheelsatwanaka.co.nz NZL

Tackling the toughest WARATAH FORESTRY EQUIPMENT HAS unveiled the H216 – a new two-roller head added to its 200 Series lineup. Built for hardwood, the H216 is strong enough to handle the toughest tree forms with accuracy and efficiency. It features strong feed power, delimbing and large cut capacity.

“The H216 is specially designed for hardwood,” says Brent Fisher, Product Marketing manager for Waratah. “This head not only provides our customers with reliable performance in hardwood but is equally capable of handling softwood, debarking and everything in between.”

Weighing in at 1495 kg, this 200 Series head features a two-roller design ideal for hardwood harvesting, late or final thinnings, he adds. Floating roller arms allow for easy tree horizontal movement and log transport through the head. High-performance single or multi-speed options keep timber moving quickly.

The H216 features the SuperCut 100S saw 12 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

unit with improved auto tensioning and easier servicing. With large sawing capacity, this head can cut logs up to 750 mm in diameter, while an optional top saw tackles heavy branching. The delimb arms provide strong delimbing power across all diameter ranges, while drive wheel options offer maximum traction for crooked wood. The harvester head utilises the TimberRite H-16 control system for optimum head performance, productivity and measuring accuracy.

The H216 is built to tackle everything from the toughest, crooked timber to the straightest postwood and everything in between, says Mr Fisher: “While also naturally capable in softwood, debarking or multi-tree handling, this head is designed for efficiency and agility in thinning and harvesting applications with quick cycle times.”

A heavy-duty main chassis saw box, as well as tilt frame and guarding, provide added protection and reliability. Maintenance is simplified through one position daily

servicing and easy open/close hinges on the valve cover.

The Waratah H216 is available to customers in New Zealand, Australia, Asia Pacific, The United States, Canada, Europe, Brazil and Latin America. NZL

NZFP reunion THE CALL HAS GONE OUT FOR FORMER EMPLOYEES OF New Zealand Forest Products (NZFP) to meet in Tokoroa next February for a reunion weekend.

The February 22-23 event is titled NZFP Truckies-Loggers-GarageForestry-Forest Engineers Reunion 2025 and is for anyone who worked or contracted for NZFP between 1957 and 2000.

Organising committee member, Bruce Nairn, says the last NZFP reunion was held in 2012 with some 300 people attending.

“This time we are expecting about 200 to 300 again,” he says. “We’ll have registration on Friday night (February 21) and during the weekend we’re organising some bush tours to see the latest gear at work. We’ll also have a display of some of the old trucks and the latest ones, but the main thing is just a chance for everyone to catch up again.”

The reunion will be held at the Tokoroa Club in Chambers Street.

Registration forms are available at email: tgmservices@xtra.co.nz or call Bruce Nairn for further details: 0274 943 695. NZL

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ForestTECH 2024

New options in mechanised planting MECHANISED PLANTING HAS BEEN USED AND DEVELOPED around the world for over 20 years. Until recently, mechanised planting has only been done on a small scale. Scandinavia has led the way but local forest companies have been trialling and increasingly, rolling out the technology. As well as in New Zealand and Australia, mechanised planting is already successfully being used across Scandinavia, Brazil, Chile, Indonesia, the USA and Canada.

This technology addresses the growing issue of labour shortages and increasing labour costs and the difficulty in finding and retaining motivated people.

Forest companies, planting contractors and equipment and technology providers have been sharing their lessons from early trials at Australasia’s annual ForestTECH events over the last four years.

Operational trials have successfully been completed ,with commercial planting already underway in New Zealand in the central North Island (CNI), Hawke’s Bay and top of the South Island, and in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and Western Australia in Australia.

In New Zealand, Timberlands led the charge bringing in four M-Planter mechanised planting machines between 2018 and 2020.

They were tweaked early on to ensure that they could undertake site preparation operations (rake, slash, spot cultivate, mound and fertilise) as well as planting. Water, in dryer environments or the application of a hydrogel at the time of planting also showed survival rates could be boosted and the planting season extended.

Trials and operations with the Risutec and Bracke heads followed, both in New Zealand and Australia. This was principally on flat or rolling terrain. The benefits are already showing with improved growth rates and consistency of planting reported. There have also been plenty of challenges. Operator training, matching planting speeds to optimise planting quality, developing seedlings in the nursery to be better suited to mechanised rather than manual planting ,and the need to set up supply arrangements with nurseries all needed to be addressed.

Stretching mechanised planting out onto steeper slopes beyond 25 degrees was tackled at ForestTECH 2022, with the Brazilian forest company, Cenibra, working with Swedish based planting head manufacturer, Bracke Forest. Together they developed working modules for planting that, at the time, consisted of five mechanised planting machines (excavator and planting heads) together with a support truck and water tanker working on steeper slopes ranging from 18 to 35 degrees. With Bracke, they were also trialling the Bracke P22b planter that had been developed for dryer sites in South 14 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

America. Instead of one planting head, two heads, each carrying 196 seedlings - a total of 392 seedlings - were being used on pre-ripped areas. On flatter terrain of up to 18 degrees, a mix of manual planting and semi-mechanised planting and irrigation was employed by the forest company.

As part of the ForestTECH 2023 series, HVP Plantations and SSEF, a company specialising in forestry and environmental services, outlined lessons and early results from using the Cat 315C CAT excavator, Risutec SKB planter and Asta EX guidance package in HVP’s North East Victorian forests.

Pan Pac Forest Products also was able to provide early results from last year’s planting season, on the Swedish designed and manufactured Plantma machine that they brought into New Zealand.

It’s based on an Ecolog 574 forwarder base and results were shared on Australasia’s first planting trials from a range of forest sites (flat grass to rolling cutover and with increasing slash loads) in its Hawke’s Bay forests. For the first time in Australia this year, Form Forest, based in Albany, Western Australia has been planting seedlings from its own nursery using the Plantma machine.

At this year’s ForestTECH 2024 event in Rotorua on 20-21 November, updates on new innovations and further results in mechanised planting operations will be detailed to local foresters. Presentations will include recent results from this planting season on the M-Planter that’s been working on steeper forest sites of up to 30 degrees in the top of the South Island.

For the first time in Australasia, insights into operational trials from Brazilian forests for John Deere’s new mechanised planter will also be unveiled. John Deere’s new mechanised seedling planter is designed to be adaptable to different species and has been built on the 1510G forwarder. Initial feedback from early trials is very favourable, and it is on track to be able to plant one hectare of forest per hour as requested by the forest owner, significantly reducing manual labour in planting operations by approximately 90%. In order to achieve these results, John Deere has been able to integrate several technologies leveraged directly from agriculture, such as automated path planning and steering.

Building on the early trials in NSW and Victoria, lessons from the first planting season in Queensland forests (Araucaria and Southern Pine) using the Risutec and Bracke mechanised planting heads will be given at ForestTECH 2024 by HQPlantations. About 6,000 hectares, or 30% of the Araucaria estate has a slope of more than 25 degrees and typically, the planting season begins when the rainfall is sufficient.

Residues to Revenues 2024

Time for an Energy-Grade log?

THERE WAS PLENTY OF FOOD FOR THOUGHT at the recent Residues to Revenues conference held in Rotorua. Not least of which was Hamish Marshall from Margules Groome’s presentation asking if it’s time to introduce an Energy-Grade (E-Grade) log as a potential tool to improve the forest industry’s ability to convert residues into revenues.

With the goal to bridge the gap between potential and profitability, he suggested that it’s high time we gave residues a rethink.

With environmental and governmental pressure to look at alternative energy sources, forest owners are looking to maximise their asset value and explore new markets, he said. The result is that regional biomass markets are developing.

With significant amounts of biomass left after harvesting, considering that replacing coal and aviation fuel would use all New Zealand’s forecasted available forest biomass and the Bioenergy Association believes that 150 k TJ of New Zealand energy requirements could be replaced by bioenergy – that’s 21 million m3 of biomass – the question of an E-grade log begins to make a lot of sense.

Mr Marshall added that in some regions, like Te Tairāwhiti, there have been times over the last four years where it would make more economic sense to delivering KIS, KI and KS than forest residues.

In terms of the cost of extracting biomass to compete with other energy sources the forestry industry needs to look for ways to: • deliver quality and consistent product, • reduce delivery costs, • deliver on time, • deliver consistent volumes over time.

“And this needs to be done with all players in the forestry supply chain benefitting from this new market,” Mr Marshall said.

With the economics of extracting forest residues still too high in many regions to help accelerate the uptake of forest residues for bioenergy, he believes the solution is to develop a new log grade specifically design for the energy market - E-Grade.

While still at the conceptual stage, the theoretical E-Grade specifications would be: • Any length of log, with a preference for longer lengths for lower cost transport on a bolstered truck and shorter lengths and other material in bin trucks.

• Virtually no quality requirements as all sweep, degrade, sapstain, and other defects would be allowed.

• No restrictions on branches and bark debris.

• No small-end diameter requirements so long as it can be transported safely.

• Any species.

The goal is to attach as much “residue fibre” to a low value export log (KI, KS and KIS) as possible.

This would reduce residues left on site, with resulting reduced environmental risks and better compliance with residues management.

In turn, cleaner harvest sites would improve site preparation and re-establishment.

It would also improve harvest productivity rates in a number of ways, he said. From reduction in log grades to higher productivity from less handling on the landing, higher throughput of recovered volume over the weighbridge (counting volume that the contractor would not otherwise get paid for), the potential to reduce delimbing, reduction in harvesting cost and providing the opportunity to derive value from sapstained fibre - such as from trees that are windthrown on exposed edges created from road lining.

Landing size and infrastructural savings would include a reduced number of sorts which could be as low as five in regions with limited domestic options (two pruned, two A-Grade, and an E-Grade). That could allow landing sizes to be reduced by 800-1000 m2 as well as to reduce the piling of residues and offcuts which could also lead to reduction in the landing size.

There would also be more consistent delivered product and a higher quality of fibre due to less soils and other contaminants with less handling of material at the processing

Around 60% of the establishment costs for the company are in planting and soil preparation. Mechanised planting is also being explored by HQPlantations to improve flexibility of the planting season and to overcome the shortage of workers in more remote areas for planting.

And finally, from Sweden, updates on a new autonomous soil preparation and tree planting machine that’s being developed will be provided. Swedish forestry cooperative, Sodra, is developing a precision-based planting machine, BraSatt. The cooperative is looking to the machine to find an accessible path through the site,

plant/chipper, he said.

The concept of the E-Grade log will be most useful where domestic pulp markets do not exist, and suppliers are looking for more value stability, he added.

To sum up, he said the forestry industry needs to look at ways to increase the quality of wood and reduce the delivered cost going to energy markets: “We believe that the E-Grade is an important tool in doing that.

The industry needs to stop thinking of the material left after harvesting as ‘waste’ or ‘residues’ and start thinking of this material as a financially viable product. It would also allow us to get a better idea of what our new forests would look like in the future.

“The opportunity is for the forestry sector to be there at the coalface (pun intended) while the bioenergy industry develops, working with the various bioenergy users to develop a robust E-Grade market that meets energy needs while improving the value of forestry returns.” NZL

Hamish Marshall from Margules Groome.

select good planting spots, scarify the soil and plant the seedlings.

Like John Deere using its expertise from other fields like agriculture and log harvesting, the BraSatt machine uses techniques that are unusual for forestry, such as industrial robots that are more likely to be found indoors on a concrete floor.

For local forest resource and tree crop managers, ForestTECH 2024 will run on 20-21 November in Rotorua, New Zealand and on 26-27 November 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. Full details on the programme can be found on the event website, www.foresttech. events NZL September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 15

Iron Test

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A long-reaching Story & photos: Tim Benseman

The dual slews make for easy breaking out of the stacks in the Next Gen Cat 568.

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September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 17

Above: Part of The Cat Army at McCormick Logging.

Below, from left: Mark Costello from Terra Cat, operator, Jacob Keefe, and Iron Tester, Denis Todd, with the 568.

T SEEMS LIKE QUITE A WHILE AGO THAT WE TESTED A CAT machine so we are all ears when Terra Cat territory account manager, Mark Costello, tells us what they’ve changed in this new Next Gen 568.

“We basically redesigned everything. New engine, new pump, new control system, all hoses are out of the cab now, new rear-entry cab, new windscreen design which you will see is amazing, more track power, dual slew motors… the list goes on.”

Arriving at McCormick Logging’s operation is like driving into the Cat Army – they’re everywhere – loading, shovelling, stacking and processing.

Since we last tested a Cat in 2021 there have been some good improvements right across the board, starting with a 10% increase in production via increased horsepower (347HP), swing power and track power. They have added a Heavy Lift mode to increase pressures when you need an additional boost for bigger timber. That will give you 10% more swing power too from the already grunty dual slew motors. Although it’s hard to gauge if you would need it here, as when I suggested to Iron Tester, Denis Todd, that this would be a Great shovelling machine he said, “Nah, way too big!”. Maybe he hasn’t shovelled in a 20 tonner lately.

At close to 54 tonnes with the Woodsman head on it, this machine is definitely designed to get in amongst it with the big boys.

The Cat 9.3B engine is nine percent more powerful than the previous version, and can run on biodiesel up to B20(%) and other renewable fuels if required, or if there are no after treatment devices it can use a higher blend up to 100% biodiesel

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but, of course, this is best discussed with Terra Cat first.

The engineers at Caterpillar have made a five percent reduction in fuel consumption via their electrohydraulic control system to micromanage every drop of that valuable diesel as it powers the huge 581LPM hydraulic pump.

Also in the speed department there is an increase of 14% in

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travel speed compared to the 2020 version of the 568, up to 4.3km per hour which will no doubt come in handy when walking between several skids each day as they do here.

The crew is logging a 28-year-old stand of well-formed but untended radiata less than a kilometre from the Kaingaroa Processing Plant (KPP) otherwise known as ‘The Webb’. Pretty much in the middle of Kaingaroa Forest.

There is a busy little Bell Ultra fleeting and grading the road several times during our visit to keep it in smooth condition and a Komatsu running a tethered felling machine down the slope about 150 metres away.

Thoughtful designs Climbing up to the rear-entry cab is done off to the side and behind where a smaller machine’s fuel tank would normally be, and one of the first things that catches the eye is the cleanliness of the hydraulic valve bank and dual slew motor area. It’s basically spotless and you can see that careful design has ensured those difficult-to-clean areas have been placed and shaped to deflect a lot of the falling needles and debris. And turning towards the rear there are some neat Cat padlocks on the dual fuel tank filling lids, one on each side so you don’t have to bother about lining up the correct side. That’s a good idea that should be put on all vehicles

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really and shows there is some smart and helpful thinking going on in the design department at Caterpillar.

There’s 990 litres of diesel storage onboard so downtime is minimised as well as it utilising that otherwise non-productive counterweight area.

The door of the rear-entry cab is a heavy duty and stylish thing that you might expect on a Bentley, but with the sturdy feel of a top quality closure.

We open up and this has a wow factor inside too. Crystal clear unobstructed views out the front. And regular operator, Jacob Keefe, has kept it spick and span in here too. Basically it’s an Executive Office Suite in here and I have to remove my boots before I walk through to the seat and take a few photos. I think Iron Tester, Denis, will be impressed but you can read about that in his column on page 26. It’s definitely a great leap forward in the visual department to have no bars or sectional joins. While our eyes will always adapt to the bars or sections, there is often the question as to what this is doing to our long-term eye health looking through multiple distance objects at once and all day.

What Caterpillar has done here is fit a larger 32mm (an inch and a quarter) polycarbonate front window, smaller cab pillars and a flat engine hood to improve visibility by up to 50% on the previous 568. There are a couple of cameras to keep an eye on the

The 28-year-old

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1: Hydraulic pump and filter bay, and great to see a stainless muffler.

2: Aircon bay.

3: Regular operator, Jacob Keefe, at the rear-entry door.

4: The rear-entry door gives substantial protection from the elements and seals well.

5: Cat 9.3 litre engine bay.

6: The dual diesel caps to refuel from either side.

7: Cooler bay.

blind spots to the rear and right-hand side.

“Wow” and “Amazing” are two words thrown about quite readily as Terra Cat’s Mark Costello smiles and nods, “Yeah, It’s all keyless in here. And there’s plenty of touch panels. It’s just quality inside here which is why you get the wow type comments.

And having extra room with the rear-entry cab makes it great for training and observing. Plenty of space and it is really quiet inside here too. In the performance department the dual slew motors deliver massive slew torque for shifting the really big wood easily.

“Connor (McCormick) came to us with the idea of trading up his previous machine which was a Cat 336F to get into this purposebuilt machine and we were at first a bit sceptical as to whether there would be a measurable production increase in processing but he has said there has been,” says Mark.

Regular operator, Jacob, reckons it has had a big effect on production and the ease of production too. The extra space in the walk-in cab comes in handy right away as Jacob can stand in there while Denis gets busy putting the Cat through its paces.

As Iron Tester, Denis, steps out of the cab a half hour later, the first thing he says is, “The power!” followed by, “Crazy visibility.”

Logging’s in the family Operator, Jacob got into logging through family: “The old man and his old man. I tried to get away from it, went to uni, spent about a year there trying to get away from logging but hey, turns out I love it, haha.”

After spending high school in an all-boys college, that year in uni studying maths and computers didn’t have the substance

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1: The view from the operator’s seat .

2: The valve bank and dual slew motors.

3: The controls and screens have been modernised.

4: Good visibility to the left.

he really wanted from life, so he reached out to family and was quickly welcomed.

“This was the days of the chainsaws, I started off at the bottom, trimming, cutting dots, and being with family.

My sister is in the bush, my brother works with your Iron Tester, Denis, over at Jensen’s, and Dad works around here. I haven’t been in the bush that long compared to everyone else but I guess about 15 years.

“I love being outside and when I started out up north I was working hard with other men, and surviving; the camaraderie and the hard physical work agreed with me. They would talk dirty but then they would be cool and it was a cool experience.

“From Northland I moved to a job at Kajavala (KFL) in Kawerau.

That was a different experience working in the superskid. And from there I saw Connor’s ad in the paper and got into this crew.

He’s a good boss.

“It’s cool to see how it has all changed too. More professional. Now there is no alcohol anywhere. There is a lot more mental pressure too. The onus is on you now, like with this machine, this is like five skiddies all in one. If anything goes wrong or production isn’t up, then that falls to me to correct.

“It’s easier on the body but harder on the mind. Back in the day it was hard on the body, easy on the mind. I didn’t have to go

Regular operator, Jacob Keefe, processing.

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The Cat 568 gets back to work.

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Above, from left: Mark Costello from Terra Cat, operator, Jacob Keefe and Iron Tester, Denis Todd, discuss the 568.

Above right: The Cat 568 processing in Kaingaroa. to a gym back then. We have to be careful that we don’t spend too much time near those bakeries, they can be deadly.

“I miss that go-hard attitude we had in the dot cutting days but it is what it is. The camaraderie has changed in the bush now – instead of the vans full of people it’s now your own ute or two to a ute.

“We do about 500 tonne a day in here but this wood is all quite brittle so we have a bit of extra work cutting up the broken bits.

I was hoping the bro Denis would cut that up but he was just interested in testing the cream.”

“The previous machine was a low cab and it could be a struggle to see when the surge piles built up but now with this high cab, Load ‘em up! The boss has bought another high cab loader too, so it makes everything a lot more capable and safer and quicker for loading out. After that, the extra power was the first thing I noticed stepping in to this one. You don’t even notice the logs there, they don’t impede the action of the machine, so that translates to it being easier on the body. You end up doing more logs, easier and still feeling reasonably fresh when you step out at the end of the day.”

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9/05/2024 2:15:16 PM

Iron Tester: Denis Todd

The Cat Army

WELL, THERE ISN’T AN OUNCE OF doubt on what the favourite brand is as you pull in past the stop signs at McCormick Logging. Cat is clearly the favourite by a mile.

Short trip out to the mighty Kaingaroa today to check out Connor’s mighty processor.

The 568 Cat is a monster of a size, a shade over 50-tonne running the 850 Woodsman and being operated by Jacob Keefe.

First time I’ve been in the big high-rise walk in cabs and vision is outstanding. I can see why Jacob’s so happy. Being able to see the stems in the high stockpiles makes life so much easier when breaking them out, and there is excellent vision around the site when processing.

Climbing on board is a much easier task as you’re climbing up onto the back. The grab handles are all well placed to make the climb onto this mammoth relatively effortless. And such a big platform behind the cab leaves plenty of room for Jacob to keep his chains all nice and handy.

Checking the fluids is all very easily accessible from on top. The cab itself is a great office space – rear walk in, heaps of head room and plenty of space behind

the seat for just about anything. Great to see Jacob’s got a high standard for his cab as there’s a blower vac and polish gear all ready and waiting.

Once you’re seated you get a great feel for the size and vision – the 13 metres of boom and head out the front certainly adds to that. Good comfortable seat, fully adjustable and keeps you cosy. A neat little feature is that the RT can be activated just by pressing a button on the joystick and a microphone near your head to talk. Once you fire it up you straight away notice the power the machine has. Lifting the boom and trying the reach sounds absolutely effortless.

Then picking up a good sized 4/5 tonne tree you barely notice it’s even there.

Slewing around to cut it up you can definitely see how good two slew motors makes life.

And the Woodsman head just loves this size wood, driving them through with ease.

This head has the extended tips on the front knives, which is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to getting stems out of the stockpile. Sometimes a right mission with the four knives.

The saw is a typical Woodsman – just rips through like a hot knife through butter.

Iron Tester, Denis Todd.

Connor’s got the spray marking system on this head and that’s just another bonus for the skid crew. This was a very hard machine to give back to Jacob. The power this machine has is just brilliant for this type of wood and with the big fuel tanks on board, going to the tank is only a once every few days affair. Jacob was saying after coming from a smaller 30 tonne Cat he was just blown away with the power and the vision from the high cab and I can certainly see why.

Vision’s definitely a huge sell on this machine as well as the safety aspect of it.

With cameras fitted around the machine you’ve got clear views on the monitor of the blind spots on the rear and sides.

With the monitor being a touch screen, a quick tap and you can enlarge the camera

Below: The Woodsman Pro 850 with the extension is proving a hit.

Right: The QC stencils some logs.

Far right: The Woodsman Pro 850 and Cat 568 make a strong team in Kaingaroa.

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IFICATION

SPEC S CAT 568LL FOREST MACHINE – SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE

REFILL CAPACITIES (LITRES)

Cat C9.3B, 6 cylinder 9.3 Litre turbo diesel.

Peak power Biodiesel Capability

Fuel tank Hydraulic tank Coolant Engine Oil

259 kW (347 hp) @ 1950 rpm Up to B20

HYDRAULICS. Max flow 581 L/min Swing speed Max Swing Torque

DIMENSIONS (MM) 6.1rpm 163kN-m

UNDERCARRIAGE Factory High Wide Ground Clearance Max Speed

760mm 4.3kph

BOOM / ARM Cat Max reach

to full screen to check surroundings even better. The main windscreen is floor to roof with no bars to obstruct views which is just brilliant for processing. A great improvement over the older three-piece windows in older models. See through floor windows are fitted too by the pedals – helpful for seeing the tracks and any close obstacles.

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13.530

Length Width Height (cab tilted) Tail swing radius Operating weight Total weight with Woodsman

15,430 3,650 4030 3790 48500kg 53763kg

PROCESSOR Woodsman Pro 850 Weight Max Opening Feed Speed @400LPM

It’s been a long time since I last drove a harvester with dual slews. Very much missed having the power to turn with stems and not struggle at all breaking them out but you can see on this machine, more is a must to deliver all the power so smoothly.

As a shovelling /loading machine it would be an operator’s delight with the reach and

5263kg 874mm 3.5MPS

power combination plus the vision from the cab. It’s hard to write about it being a shovelling machine here… too damn big.

I miss the days of the big toys… we all had 40-tonners years ago and now the wood’s not so big, everyone’s gone to the light 30’s.

This machine’s a big beast to drive though. NZL

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Breaking Out

30 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

O

N A MISTY MORNING IN JUNE, Flight Logging’s Gordon Flight brought down the last tree in the Central North Island forests managed by NZ Forest Managers (NZFM) that had been damaged in February 2023 by Cyclone Gabrielle.

When Gordon set down the tree ready for extraction, it marked the end of an extraordinary 16-month salvage operation for NZFM and all the harvesting and trucking contractors that had helped with the work.

Not only did they manage to complete what would normally be six years’ worth of harvesting work in 16 months, they did it safely. In fact, NZFM’s safety statistics actually improved significantly during salvage work.

“From the outset there was plenty of discussion around having very clear objectives for the team during the salvage operation,” says NZFM General Manager, John Hura. “These were to minimise the value loss to our forest owners, and to do the work safely. That was driven both by the NZFM board, as well as our senior management team.”

When the cyclone hit, it damaged about 6,500 hectares of Central North Island forests, which equates to about 3.4 million cubic metres of wood – or some 13,000 rugby fields. Much of the damage was to the most valuable stands, those aged 20-years and older.

Salvaging the snapped and uprooted stems was a race against time because the longer they lay on the ground, the more they would degrade and lose value as sap stain and decay set in. It required NZFM to massively scale up its operations, and to do it quickly.

Left: Flight Logging worked on the salvage and brought down the last storm-damaged tree.

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 31

Breaking Out Looking Back

Left: NZFM General Manager, John Hura, says safety was a priority from the start.

Below: Some of the cyclone-damaged trees.

Bottom: The last cyclone-damaged tree in NZFM's forests being felled.

32 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

“To put it into perspective, we usually harvest about 1000 hectares of wood a year,” says NZFM Harvesting Manager, Matt Owen. “But the morning after the cyclone hit, we had 6,500 hectares of trees lying on the ground in Turangi. We needed to salvage that wood as quickly as possible before it deteriorated. So, essentially, we had to do six years’ worth of work in 16 months.”

Scaling up In order to complete the salvaging operations, NZFM had to scale up its harvesting and trucking capacity by about five times, Mr Owen says.

“We went from about eight harvesting crews to about 41 at the peak of the work, and from about 100 truck movements a day to about 500.”

Scaling up that much, and so quickly, brought challenges.

“We had to onboard new harvesting and trucking contractors who weren’t familiar with our systems,” Mr Hura says. “We had to find more supervisory staff and admin staff.

We had to bring in new systems to deal with the dispatching of so many trucks.”

Mr Owen adds, “We had several contractors and lots and lots of trucks using the same roads and working in close proximity to each other.”

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Breaking Out

There were also additional risks in harvesting windthrown wood, he says.

“It creates more risk. There’s hung up trees, broken trees, a lot more hazards on the ground left by holes from the root balls.”

Despite all these challenges, NZFM was able to complete the salvage work safely.

“Over the 16 months of the salvage operation we only had a couple of minor Lost Time Injuries,” says NZFM Health & Safety Specialist, Veronica McDonald.

“Our Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate reduced significantly during the salvage period,” she says. “So that was a huge achievement by the team.”

“The thing I’m most proud about in this work is that everyone went home safely to their families,” says Mr Owen.

A bold approach

Top left: NZFM Harvesting Manager, Matt Owen, says the thing he’s most proud of is that everyone went home safe to their families.

Top right: NZFM Health & Safety Specialist, Veronica McDonald.

Middle: NZFM Distribution Manager, Stephen Holdsworth, says the distribution operation went from five days a week, to seven days a week, 24 hours a day at the peak of the salvage work.

Bottom: Fit4Work owner, Richard Stringfellow, says NZFM’s approach to the wellbeing of its workers was impressive.

Right: Harvesting in the storm-damaged forests.

34 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

So how did NZFM do it? How did it manage to increase the scale of its operations five-fold, while working in an environment with additional risks, and still dramatically reduce its injury statistics?

“I think it was really about making bold decisions very early on in the process,” Mr Hura says. Those were things like

insisting all our harvesting contractors were Safetree Certified and were fully mechanised. There would be no chainsaws in the cutover unless there was no other option and it had been through a thorough risk assessment process.”

Mr Owen adds, “We had to bring in a lot of crews from outside the region to help us. We didn’t really know those crews, so having them Safetree Certified gave us confidence that they met industry safety standards.”

Manual falling is probably the biggest critical risk in forestry, Mr Owen explains: “The way we controlled the risks of manual falling was to make it a last resort that was only done with a very good plan, developed with the crew and followed strict criteria and protocols.”

The vast majority of the falling was done mechanically, with some winch-assist used on the hills.

He believes a key aspect that helped the salvage operation go smoothly and safely was good communication.

“We had a monthly meeting attended by all harvesting and trucking contractors that involved a free and frank discussion.

At NZFM we’re pretty comfortable with people speaking their minds. The benefit of those frank conversations is that it enabled us to spot emerging trends or issues, or weak signals of problems, so we could catch them early.”

NZFM had a particular focus on the wellbeing of its contractors, particularly those who came from other regions, says Ms McDonald.

“We made sure we had an effective onboarding process, particularly for contractors who came from out-of-town.

We monitored contractors’ wellbeing and gave them free access to EAP and counselling services, which people did use. We also had (former) Safetree Toroawhi Richard Stringfellow and Wade Brunt come in to visit crews, to talk about wellbeing and to make sure their wellbeing was being looked after.

Many of the out-of-town crews came from the Hawke’s Bay/ Gisborne region, where forestry operations had dramatically reduced due to damage to infrastructure from the cyclone.

These crews would likely have been without work for months if they hadn’t been able to come over the hill to Turangi to help with the salvage work.

“We gave our contractors a lot of flexibility in the hours they worked. This was particularly appreciated by the crews from other regions because it meant they could finish early in the week and go home to their families for the weekend. We made sure the out-of-town contractors had good accommodation that was within a reasonable drive to work, to reduce the risks of driving while fatigued.”

In addition to the monthly meetings, NZFM regularly produced and shared Safety Alerts to remind workers about different hazards and to make sure they had appropriate controls in place.

At the start of the salvage work the company also collaborated with Safetree to create videos where crews talked about the additional risks of harvesting windthrow, and how these risks could be controlled.

McDonald says NZFM decided to use external providers to help with its onboarding process, something she found very helpful.

“As well as helping us spread the workload, it gave us a fresh set of eyes during the onboarding process and helped us evaluate where our focus should be.”

Her best memory of that period is the laughter in the office.

“I think that was really important from a NZFM wellbeing point of view, to have that laughter in the office, because it was a pretty stressful time.”

Truck movements went from about 100 a day to about 500 at the peak of the harvest.

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September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 35

Breaking Out

Communication and collaboration key As well as focusing on worker welfare, NZFM used technology to help the job run more smoothly and to reduce stress on truck drivers.

NZFM Distribution Manager, Stephen Holdsworth, says the distribution operation went from being five days a week, to seven days a week, 24 hours a day at the peak of the salvage work.

“That was a huge increase,” he says.

“We quickly realised that dispatching across radio with voice wasn’t going to work because of the sheer volume of truck movements. So, we moved to Trimble Forestry’s voiceless dispatching system. With this system, Trimble runs the dispatching and distribution of the trucks.

It also collects all the weight and billing data and feeds that back to us.

One of the big advantages of the system is that the information about where the driver needs to pick up and deliver their next load is given via a text sent to a device in the truck’s cab, rather than by voice over the radio.

“With voice dispatch across the radio, if there’s something going on in the background or the driver’s not listening there is potential for misinterpretation or getting it wrong. With a text system, it’s 36 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

on the screen constantly. So, the driver can read it at an appropriate time and can refer back to it if needed. It puts the driver’s mind at ease while they are driving because they aren’t stressing about where the next pick up or drop off is.”

Mr Holdsworth credits the success of the distribution operation to the way the company and its contractors worked together.

“The thing I’m most proud of is the collaboration we had with our contractors and the camaraderie that was evident throughout the whole process.”

Richard Stringfellow, owner of Fit4Work, says NZFM’s approach to the wellbeing of its workers was impressive.

“My overall impression is that NZFM really cares about its people and were grateful for their efforts.

He visited crews during the salvage operation when he was working as a Toroawhi/Worker Champion for Safetree.

One of the key things NZFM did at the start was not jump straight into the salvage work, he says.

“They planned it all out. Nobody came into the forest until it was safe. When the crews did come in, there was no production pressure on them. It was just do the job safely and get home safe at the end of the day.”

Volcanic Plateau Logging – one of the crews that worked on the salvage.

Communication with contractors was outstanding, he says.

“The contractors were kept informed all the time. The supervisors were active on the ground, making sure that everything was running to plan, and they were listening to what the contractors had to say. Safetree filmed new techniques the contractors developed to work in the windthrow safely and efficiently. The videos and techniques were shared with other crews so they could adopt them.”

He adds that NZFM prioritised acknowledging the effort put in by its workforce, especially the ones who came from out-of-town.

At the end of the day what it came down to was teamwork, Mr Hura says: “It’s all about working as a team. That’s the key to it. And listening and being able to pivot when you need to.

“The thing I’m most proud of is how everyone has come together and worked well together. I think the culture that we were able to create really helped achieve the outcome that we wanted.” NZL

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Looking Back

Cant hooks, pinch bars and snig chains...

Story: Jim Childerstone Forest Services

T

O BORROW FROM THE POPULAR WORLD WAR ONE DITTY, ‘Where have all the young men gone?’: “Oh where have all the sawmills gone? Either left derelict, or gone to scrapyards, every one… !”

Just in our southern districts alone I can name several defunct mills and timber processors. Ernslaw One’s Blue Mountain Lumber in Tapanui, Rosebank Mill Balclutha, Tomlinson’s Luggate mill near Wanaka, Carl Fowler’s Lumsden mill, the Herbert mill in East Otago, the Dunedin City Forest plant in Mosgiel and Aparima Mill in western Southland – just to name a few.

It’s been a question of upgrade, or just give up. Just keep exporting raw logs and keep Asian manufacturers (mostly Chinese) happy.

Caught up in the trap of commodity exports.

1

2

Cant hooks and pinch bars Back in the 1970s, we invested in a portable mill to fill in the supply gap with the closure of Queenstown’s lumber yard and mill a decade earlier.

It was just prior to a potential building boom in the 1980s.

It was a Varteg hydraulic Pacific bench system on wheels with power take-off driven plate saw on a David Brown farm tractor with a six meter long by one metre mobile tray.

And it was all hard yakka. Basic tools were cant hooks and pinch bars for log handling on skid sites and sawmills.

Much of the available stock was from wilding conifers, shelter belts and small woodlots. And the biggest percentage was Oregon timber cut board from Douglas fir.

And here I must apologise for my most recent rant targeting the current crop of CEO’s corporate directors and forest management. All I was after was feedback and responses to my recent series of articles on the future of our forestry industries, particularly in relation to climate change. There appears to be little interest or enthusiasm among both public and private stakeholders on future trends.

Shots of Varteg portable mill 1977-81 working on Wilding Douglas fir at Queenstown Lakes District Council reserves: 1: Jim Childerstone loading with Jamie Clark.

2: Setting up logs.

3: Hauler land in background to One Mile Creek skid site.

4: Slag removal watched by Lou Pembertone.

5: Douglas fir stack, Fernhill subdivision west of Queenstown 1977.

3

38 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

Right: Blue Mountain Lumber Mill now closed. Pictured is the chip heating plant. It ran a generator for power production which is now at Washdyke, Timaru. It was bought by Pioneer Energy, Alexandria and now supplies heat energy to South Canterbury businesses.

4

Then again the current crop of management and commentators may wonder what I am going on about, talking of cant hooks and pinch bars.

Back in the day Back in those days early chainsaws and cross-cut saws were used for felling. I used a 1950s blue Fordson wheel tractor with front end forks for some hauling with snig chains, but much of the time on steeper country I contracted Daryl MacGregor’s D8 Cat series

5

crawler with winch and strops for heavy logs and Graham Railton’s D4 for select hauling lighter logs.

The Varteg featured a 44-inch (one metre) breakdown saw and a four-foot six-inch bar 120 cc Stihl saw to break down large logs on the bench.

But, oh my gosh, the state of the bark on the logs left plenty to be desired – stones, gravel, mud and sand. Stripping, sharpening and setting took the best part of an hour, with a stand-by blade replaced at least once a day. No wonder mills in those days

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 39

Looking Back

featured debarkers.

Stripping, as demonstrated by West Coaster, Jock Roxborough, was forcing a kingpin into the blade at 3200 PPM to even out the teeth.

I’ll take a bet some current forestry CEOs would still be in their baby cots while I struggled manoeuvring logs on the bench ramps back in those days.

It was an invitation for a heart attack. I recently survived a mild one. Nowadays one must appreciate grapples and processor heads with delimbing blades.

Mechanised harvesting could not come soon enough.

And, as predicted, the development boom in the Whakatipu came on with a capital B. Keith Smith’s Coletart twinsaw portable had been moving around from Stewart Island as well as Cockburn’s Coletart from Owaka – much easier to handle as the saws moved along the stationary log on the grouly.

The Railton family took over my mill and I moved the yard from Queenstown’s Industrial Place out to the new Glenda Drive industrial development in Frankton.

But there was no way we could keep up with the demand for building construction as our mill was only capable of cutting up to 8-10 cubic metres per day.

Our new yard was soon stacked with commissioned timber from other Southland and Otago sawmills. Filleted stacks were arriving by the truckload from Ken Richardson’s Niagara mill, Findlater’s Tussock Creek and John Edmond’s Naseby mill, as well as treated post timber from Lumsden, MDF and particle board from Mataura and hardware from Hayes company of Invercargill.

At one stage in the early 1980s our accountant had 87 builders and speculators on our books. The pub talk at the time was that “the suits were arriving in town” – developers, money lenders, solicitors with some out-of-town high fliers looking at buying land.

The object was to acquire sections, get a structure up and cash in on the capital gain. Caught up in this scramble also were mum and dad property owners wanting to get a couple of room cribs up

Top: The now defunct Herbert Mill.

Left: Within the last decade, Blue Mountain Lumber Mill folded at Tapanui.

40 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

on their sections for holidays. Many were unable to complete purchases after deposits.

Us locals in the materials supply businesses were issuing out three- and six-month payment notices through debt collectors and solicitors, as many builders did not pay up until fee simple house sales. Times were getting tough.

Lessons learned?

Interest rates were soaring over 21% with penalty rates up to 27%.

Banks were wanting their money back, mostly invested in property.

Bankruptcies were coming thick and fast. And panicking governments were hammering in regulations to try and stop the rot.

Then in came the October 1987 stock market crash. It had to happen, mainly due to pure greed and the quick buck. Stocks and shares were not worth the paper they were written on. Small

time crib buyers folded.

Most affected local businesses struggled through with some considerable losses. Capital gains was king. And still is!

And currently we can see a potential deterioration. Section sales closing on nearly half a million dollars. Standard sized residences climbing to $1.5m in our resort towns.

And as the old song ends “we seem to never learn”.

It’s to do with wise use of our own resources (see following story, page 42). Queenstown-Lakes District is undergoing another boom, with building materials coming from far and wide – mostly from abroad during a significant period of climate change…

Forestry is one of the most obvious answers.

It may be time to get back to cant hooks and pinch bars unless forestry leaders get back to more enthusiasm for value-added on-shore processing.

All above: The now defunct Rosebank Mill in Balclutha, closed in the last decade. It originally processed Wenita Forest Product logs.

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 41

Looking Back

Right under our noses Story: Jim Childerstone Forest Services

T

IPPING POINTS TOWARDS HEATING UP PLANET EARTH ARE coming at us thick and fast. Yet, we have the most practical means of holding back runaway carbonisation tipping points sitting right under our collective noses. It’s long past time views of leading forestry experts were taken into account.

Time is running out according to leading climatologists, partly thanks to lagging technologies, population explosion and economics based on consumerism and growth.

The paper’s regular commentator, Gwynn Dyer, observes (Otago Daily Times 4/6/24): “It was technology that got us into this global climate crises (in the first place) and it will be technology that gets us out of it.

“Specifically, technology that lets us go on living in a high-energy civilisation without burning fossil fuels, and technology that keeps the heat from overwhelming us while we work towards that goal.”

The oft-mentioned alternative energy producers – wind, solar, nuclear and the like – currently produce a fraction of the energy required and still take time to develop, with considerable impacts on the environment and carbon footprint.

And let’s face it, every electronic device, mechanised tool and EV transport require lithium/cobalt and rare metals to make them work.

Even the recent ODT editorial was not actually gung-ho about our chances of keeping CO2 levels under +2 degrees Celcius.

Yet all pundits, experts and many commentators seem to be asking: What's the most immediate system to hold greenhouse gas emissions at low levels while alternative fuels and technology catch up? Technology nerds need time, plant set-up and production of materials to make it work.

Practical, common sense solutions sit right under the noses of the New Zealand public and its leaders – namely in the waste streams, landfills, community recycling yards, wood based products and forestry residues. The solution is this country's basic resource.

And while we are at it, let’s not forget trees sequester carbon. Timber products retain carbon. That energy from wood biomass emits under a twentieth of greenhouse gases compared with coal. Converted coal burning boilers throughout the Otago-Southland area, including Fonterra plants, now burn wood chip and pellet fuels.

Yet a drive around cutover harvested forests sport heaps of rotting slash on landings and skid sites. Researchers say only about 25% of wood residues have been processed into chip fuels for heat energy.

There has so far been nil response from firms involved with biomass

42 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

production. Pioneer Energy, which had been trialing use of wilding pine in the Pukaki area, is now involved with a major South Otago windfarm.

Specific answers are hard to come by.

The obvious choice Leaders in the Forestry Industries Association and Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) have attempted to point out the benefits of timber as a major national industry and mitigation for climate change, but with little political impact. It is the one immediate available resource to cut carbon emissions according to past NZFOA President, Grant Dodson of Dunedin City Forests.

It's commonsense practical knowledge that multistorey buildings would benefit by substituting engineered timber beams for construction purposes.

Plants in both Islands are producing laminated products suitable for local projects. Little need to import steel products from overseas.

Yet designers and engineers insist on imported steel beams and other mined metals in their plans.

And we now learn schemes are afoot to erect mega wind farms in the southern provinces using traditional steel towers, yet some 88 countries are seriously looking at wood-based designed towers following a Swedish design.

The benefits of tall, engineered, wood based towers are easily picked up on the internet. Some 15 tonnes of steel are needed per tower.

Using wood saves 2000 kg of CO2 per tower. Go figure! Queries asking power companies if timber was being considered were not specifically answered.

The conversion of Burwood Christchurch Hospital's eight megawatt boilers into white chip fuels saved up to 7000 tonnes of CO2 per annum.

It’s plainly obvious we have the expertise to hold our own emissions using our natural and exotic forestry resources.

Perhaps Resources Minister, Shane Jones, could latch onto the proposed fast track Bill to pave the way for the Australian Foresta Group to set up its Bay of Plenty Plant to produce torrefied wood pellets, chemicals and rosins to boost our on-shore forestry industries. Two plants are being investigated in the South Island.

Huntly Power Station has stated that it would much prefer to be burning wood pellets instead of coal for electricity generation.

It’s all rather basic isn’t it? NZL

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WorkSafe Improvement Notices

Slash Risk Management Handbook Out Now

In recent editions FICA has provided information on the process for appealing Improvement Notices if you believe they are unwarranted.

Rowan continues to field calls from Contractors who have received improvement notices. You are perfectly entitled to appeal these improvement notices if you believe they are unwarranted.

DOWNLOAD AN ONLINE VERSION HERE

SEE MORE HERE

44 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

Slash risk ma nagement handbook

FICA.ORG.NZ

WorkSafe Strategy and Sector Plan

Woody Debris Action Group Tairawhiti

FICA has been meeting regularly with WorkSafe, including senior management and the CEO, to discuss the WorkSafe sector priorities plan.

Last month, Rowan Struthers (FICA CEO) attended his first meetings for the Woody Debris Action Group. In preparation for these meetings, he caught up with Ricky Kuru at Tolaga Bay, visiting sites in the Uawa catchment.

One of the drivers of the plan is to use good data to support priorities. Working with industry data (IRIS database), FICA has been able to supply additional data to ensure the sector plan is focussing on the right priorities.

Rob Pope (WorkSafe Head of Inspectorate) met with the FICA Board this month to present the final strategy and sector plan. The plan confirms that WorkSafe will reduce the priority on falling from heights (FFH) mobile plant (haulers and excavators) and place additional focus on manual tree falling. This is a great outcome and shows how FICA and WorkSafe can work in partnership.

FICA co-host meeting with Minister Van Velden Following Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke Van Velden’s announcement to review the Health and Safety at Work Act, FICA co-hosted a meeting with the Minister in Rotorua on 14 August with NZFOA and FISC. The meeting was attended by approximately 50 FICA members, forest management staff and H&S managers.

The next step is that FISC will be lodging a submission on behalf of the industry. In addition, FICA may also make our own submission.

Submissions close 31 October 2024.

HAVE YOUR SAY

“It was a humbling experience to see the magnitude of the damage and the significant work that has been done restoring the area.

“I was impressed with Ricky’s passion and deep understanding of the area, his concern around the sustainability of forestry on the coast and the potential impact on the local community and his employees. It never ceases to amaze me how innovative contractors are,” says Rowan.

The photo shows Ricky’s solution to burning slash at high temperatures which not only reduces volume considerably but may also be able to produce biochar type material.

Immigration Update FICA, NZFOA and WPMA met with the Immigration Minister, Erica Stanford, on 5 August. We were able to discuss our concerns and proposed solutions in relation to the Immigration settings changed by the Government in April.

The meeting with the Minister went well. She was well–engaged and right across the issues and asked good questions that we had covered.

The Minister has assured us that Forestry will get the opportunity to negotiate its own sector/regional agreement that should address most concerns we have.

She was, however, adamant the English test remains but acknowledged they need to improve access/cost to it.

She has assured us the Sector agreement will all be in place by end of year, just in time for next year’s planting season.

Thanks to all members who helped contribute and prepare for the meeting.

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 45

FICA.ORG.NZ

Residues to Revenues Conference FICA joined forces again with Innovatek to support Residues2Revenues 2024 in late July. It was fitting that Innovatek was able to offer Contractors in Tairawhiti a special rate to attend the conference.

It was good to see the following contractors there: • Chris Hurring, Director, Chris Hurring Logging • Rodney McIndoe, Director, McIndoe Logging • Adrian Bruce, Transport Manager, McIndoe Logging • Jeremy Walsh, Forestry Worker, Blackstump Logging • Wayne McEwan, Owner/Director, Blackstump Logging • Arana Kuru, Director, A&R Logging • Ricky Kuru, Director, Kuru Contracting

Pictured: Leanne Kuru (Kuru Contracting), Ricky Kuru (Kuru Contracting), Rob Scurr (DG Glenn), Wayne McEwan (Blackstump Logging), Arana Kuru (A&R Logging) and Jeremy Walsh (Blackstump Logging).

The presentation that Rowan believes had the most immediate application in New Zealand was a joint presentation by Rodrigo Palazuelos and Tom Miles on producing Biochar in Forest Operations as a means of managing Forestry slash.

• Blair Cooper, Operations Manager, OFM

“I know this got the attention of a number of our contractors in Tairawhiti. If you would like to know more please contact me. John Stulen has very kindly agreed that I can distribute this presentation. I have also been in direct contact with Rodrigo who has supplied me with additional information.”

Rowan also attended on the second day and was able to catch up with a number of those that attended and even managed to take a photo.

Thanks to John and Gordon at Innovatek for enabling this to happen. We will continue to look at opportunities for the two organisations to collaborate for the benefit of Contractors.

• Leanne Kuru, Director, Kuru Contracting • Rob Scurr, DG Glenn • Glen Stewart, All Terrain Chipping

FICA attends Forest Growers Research Harvesting Technical Steering Group Meeting As you may be aware, through the Forest Growers Levy, Forest Owners fund research and development for the industry. Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) contribute 40% of this funding.

The programme is outlined in Primary Growth Partnership (PGP) programme “Te Mahi Ngahere i te Ao Hurihuri – Forestry Work in the Modern Age” and is managed by

by Forest Growers Research (FGR) on behalf of the industry.

The current programme started in 2018 and was to run eight years with funding of approximately $3.6M per annum.

The programme’s main goals are to address growing labour shortages in the sector and achieve significant improvements in labour productivity and reduced harvesting costs, which are key constraints for the industry. It will also improve worker safety and environmental outcomes.

FICA attended its first FGR Technical Steering Group meeting this month. There was widespread acknowledgement that it was good to see a contractor representative at the meeting.

46 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

FICA is looking to work more closely with FGR to ensure that a contractor voice is heard more clearly within FGR going forward. Thanks to Keith Raymond for enabling this.

S

FICA Strategic Plan 2024-2027 THE NEW FICA STRATEGIC PLAN IS NOW LIVE. SEE MORE:

FICA.ORG.NZ

your voice The voice of forestry contractors since 2002

Do Your Due Diligence FICA has fielded a couple of calls from contractors who are in dispute with Forest Owners/Managers.

To protect yourselves, ensure you have a good contract in place prior to being engaged, that includes the term, rate of pay, disputes clause, fuel adjustment factor, how performance is managed, how work can be terminated, who pays for the transport of machinery (in and out) and how market downturn is managed and, most importantly, get legal/financial advice from your lawyer/accountant who is familiar with the industry.

Just as importantly, do your due diligence on who you are being engaged by and who will be paying the invoices.

Is there a history of poor management in the past? Is the person paying the bills getting the forest revenue?

How have the logs been sold? Is it a stumpage lump sum, composite pay as cut? Is there a high exposure to the export market? Is there a fixed export price in place for the whole block? What is the distance to market? How sensitive are returns due to fluctuations in fuel price?

Cable Yarder Safe Access and Guarding Best Practice Guidelines DOWNLOAD AN ONLINE VERSION HERE

Cable Yarder Safe Access and Guarding

Best Practice

Guidelines

Depending on the answers to these questions the risk to you as a contractor can elevate very quickly. We appreciate in the current market there can be intense competition for work, but sometimes it’s better to walk away.

FICA FICAPartners Partners STRATEGIC PARTNERS STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Thank you to all of the organisations who support FICA, which in turn works to promote Thank you to all of the organisations FICA, which in turn works to promote business growth and improved safetywho andsupport efficiency amongst forestry contractors for business growth and improved safety and efficiency amongst forestry contractors for the benefit of New Zealand’s Forestry Industry. the benefit of New Zealand’s Forestry Industry.

BUSINESS PARTNERS BUSINESS PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS GOLD PARTNERS

TO ONLINE AT AT FICA.ORG.NZ FICA.ORG.NZ TOJOIN, JOIN,CALL CALL 0800 0800 342 342 269 269 OR OR SIGNUP ONLINE

Safety/performance/quality

Spotlight on harvesting THIS ISSUE WE BRING YOU THE FIRST SET OF results for harvesting.

There’s a good mix of participants from existing crews, returning crews and crews new to the programme.

So, congratulations to all those who have featured but, be aware, there are plenty of participants catching up to you!!

Ka mau te wehi! Awesome individuals, awesome teams and awesome people behind the scenes supporting them in what they do!!

Sponsors – they don’t have to do this but they choose to!

Awesome companies, awesome people and awesome support!

They back you and your workmates to succeed as professionals, so why wouldn’t you support them?

They believe in what we do and what you do.

So, a big ongoing thank you to our Strategic Partners – STIHL and NZ Logger and sponsor SWAZI. The best way to keep our industry working is to get out and support those businesses that support New Zealand.

Round 1 Harvesting results FUNCTION Breaking Out

Ground Base Extraction

Machine Operation on the Landing

CREW

PARTICIPANT

TASK

PLACING

MFL Logging

Maharaitia Te Whaitia

1

Stewart Logging

Caleb Beets-Ruruku

2

Stewart Logging

Orisi Dryu

3

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Wayde Lindsay

Ground Base Extraction

1=

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Glenn Cochrane

Ground Base Extraction

1=

Swain Logging

David (Scrub) Thompson

Ground Base Extraction

3

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Peter Murry

Shovel Logging

1=

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Marty Glassford

Shovel Logging

1=

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Aaron Buchan

Shovel Logging

1=

Swain Logging

Blair (Nutter) Campbell

Shovel Logging

1

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Luke Stanton

1

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Jacob Jenkins

2

Mangoihe Logging 5

Russell Gibbons

3=

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Jeremy Hills

3=

Shane Griffin Logging 1

James Agnew

3=

Manual Tree Felling

Mangoihe Logging

Paneta Wiari

1

Hawkes Logging

Ben Hohepa

Mechanised Felling/ Processing

McCallum Harvesting

Dave McCallum

Mechanised Felling

1=

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Michael Aitkin

Mechanised Felling

1=

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Damian Mikaere

Mechanised Felling

3

Roxburgh Contracting 1

Rodger Mathieson

Mechanised Processing

1=

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Phil Jones

Mechanised Processing

1=

Shane Griffin Logging 2

Chris Cousin

Mechanised Processing

1=

Swain Logging

Jeremy Stuart

Mechanised Processing

1=

Diack Contracting

Dale Koia

1

Mangoihe Logging

Kasey White

2

Poleman/ Spotter

Skidwork

Yarder

48 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

2

Shane Griffin Logging 1

Mark Hunt

3

BBL1

Chris Te Kahika

1=

Diack Contracting

Whare Doherty

1=

MFL Logging

Niao Savage

3

Roxburgh Contracting 2

Blair McColl

1

Mangoihe Logging 5

Tim Paxton

2

Hawkes Logging

Aaron Nant

3=

Stewart Logging

Matthew Stewart

3=

Safety/performance/quality Participating companies This competition wouldn’t be what it is without our participating companies who have all participated in or continue to influence the way in which we operate.

We understand the commitment it takes from them to be part of Top Spot and value their ongoing support and feedback.

Our ongoing thanks to: Rayonier/ Matariki FoOur ongoing thanks to: Rayonier/Matariki Forests, Wenita Forest Products, Ernslaw One, OneFortyOne New Zealand, Crown Forestry, Forest View Contracting, Makerikeri Silviculture (2020), Mitchell

Silviculture, Puklowski Silviculture, Gutsell Forestry Services, Johnson Forestry Services, McHoull Contracting, Wayne Cumming Contracting, Howard Forestry Services, Inta-Wood Forestry, Heslip Forest Contracting, Otautau Contractors, X Men Forestry, Proforest Services, FM Silviculture, Tane Mahuta, Waikato Forestry Services, Rai Valley Silviculture, Thomassen Logging, Forest View Logging, Griffin Logging, Penetito Forestry, Pride Forestry, Mangoihe Logging, CMH Contracting, Kaha Logging, Roxburgh Contracting, Te Waa Logging, Mike Hurring Logging,

Bluewood Logging, Storm Logging, Onward Logging, Down and Out Logging, Forest Pro Logging, Eastside Logging, Lahar Logging, Moutere Logging, JD Harvesting, Whisker Logging, Kimberly Logging, Dewes Contractors, Dempsey Logging, Aratu Forests, McCallum Harvesting and Swain Logging.

Into safety?

Into performance?

Into quality?

Contact Shane Perrett on 0274 781 908, 07 3483037 or at primefm@xtra. co.nz. NZL

Tethered skidder at McCallum Harvesting.

Fixed head faller at McCallum Harvesting.

John Deere skidder at Swain Logging.

Extraction track remediation at Swain Logging.

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 49

NEW MACHINERY FOR BAIRD LOGGING Bobby Baird of Baird Logging, down the bottom of the South Island, has taken delivery of a new PC270 rear-entry guarding package with an Ensign 1730 grapple. Operator, Simon Bond (Welshy), likes the vision and power: “Being up high makes loading out that much easier”. Pictured from left: Operator, Simon (Welshy) Bond, Anthony Buchanan, Jono Roff, Todd McDonald, Aaron McDonald, Bobby Baird and Mack the dog. Machine delivered by Paul Roche, Hamish Hesselin and Tinus Barnard from Komatsu Forest.

NEW VOLVO FOR KFL Jacob Kajavala and the team at KFL in Kawerau have put a new Volvo EC380DL VFC to work in their processing yard. The factory built EC380DL sits on EC480 undercarriage and comes complete with the full factory guarding package with forestry cabin. The new machine is fitted with an Armoured 12.1m straight boom and a Waratah 625C. It will work next to the EC480El on site processing stems.

Sold and delivered by Ewen Satherley, TDX.

TIGERCAT FOR BURSON LOGGING Nelson based Burson Logging crew pictured in front of the latest Tigercat added to the fleet. This L822E model was chosen for its lighter weight and lower ground pressure to minimise site impact. The selflevelling feller buncher is fitted with the factory installed 5185 fixed felling head, ER boom and reduced tail swing. Perfect set up for its planned use thinning and clear felling in the Tasman Pine Forests.

Sold and delivered by Martin Talbot-Price and the AB Equipment Nelson crew.

NEW CAT FOR PEDERSEN KINLEITH ELTEC/QUADCO COMBO FOR OCEAN VIEW LOGGING Steve and the team at Ocean View Logging have taken delivery of a new FHL277L B Series Eltec tilter, fitted with a Quadco QB3500.

This 277 buncher configuration is a New Zealand first for Eltec.

Sold and serviced by Shaw’s.

50 NZ LOGGER | September 2024

Pedersen Kinleith recently took delivery of a Next Generation Cat 950 wheel loader. The new loader is equipped with an eight cubic metre light materials bucket and got straight to work at the Kinleith Mill in Tokoroa. The machine replaces a 966G and the customer is looking forward to the increased efficiency and operator comfort that the later model loader will bring, already commenting about how quiet the new 950 is. Machine sold by Territory Account Manager, James West.

JOHN DEERE FOR JENSEN LOGGING

NEW MACHINERY FOR MHE LOGGING

Jensen Logging crew 090 has taken delivery of a John Deere 803MH. Working for Timberlands in the Kaingaroa Forest, Jensen 090 is a production thinnings crew. Dion is pictured here on the new machine setting up the head before heading into the trees.

Delivered by Brandt Rotorua.

MHE Logging has replaced its older Satco processor with a new SAT 3L2T fitted to a Volvo EC380. Operator, Shannon, says he is impressed with all the noticeable upgrades on the 3L2T over the previous model head he operated and notes how easy the logmaker control system is to pick up and learn.

NZ LOGGER classified

Swing Units for Madill’s & Kenworth Logging Trucks Large Stocks of Heavy Alloy Cores & Completes Full Custom Build Service Fast & Efficient

sales@bopradiatorspecialists.co.nz

RADIATORS

$450,000 + gst

1995 Swing Yarder for sale Contact David davidbolsennz@gmail 021 162 7468

LG34227

Madill Komatsu CAT Thunderbird John Deere Hyundai Tigercat Sumitomo

CHARGE AIR COOLERS

WE CUSTOM BUILD -STOCK, OVERHAUL & REPAIR WE MANUFACTURE THE BEST HEAVY DUTY CORES IN NZ

Thunderbird TSY 355 BC

OILCOOLERS

BOP Radiators Te Puke 07 5739109 Heat Exchanger Services Hornby Chch 03 3729240

LG32968

INTERCOOLERS

OILCOOLERS

RADIATORS

September 2024 | NZ LOGGER 51

• Asset Valuations • Transport • Asset Sales • Storage/Logistics

2014 FREIGHTLINER ARGOSY 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2014 PATCHELL 4 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER. $POA

2021 MAN TGS 35.540 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2021 PATCHELL 5 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER . $POA

2014 FREIGHTLINER ARGOSY 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2014 PATCHELL 5 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER. $POA

2013 WESTERN STAR 4884 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2002 PATCHELL 3 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER. $POA

CAT950F LOG LOADER, SHOWING 502 HOURS ON THE CURRENT METER.

Phone Karl 027 204 3840 Karl@Kiwiassetsolutions.co.nz Under Instruction from Company Liquidators

$POA

EG34663B

2011 ISUZU CYH530LH 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2014 PATCHELL 4 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER. $POA

EG34663A

2011 ISUZU CYH530LS 8X4 LOGGER, PAIRED WITH - 2002 PATCHELL 4 AXLE MULTI BOLSTER TRAILER. $POA

• Asset Valuations • Transport • Asset Sales • Storage/Logistics

2005 TIMBERPRO 840 FORWARDER, SHOWING 16938 HOURS

$POA

2013 DOOSAN DX300LL EXCAVATOR FITTED WITH SOUTHSTAR QS600 PROCESSOR, SHOWING 16,192 HOURS. $POA

EG34663B

EG34663A

1989 KOMATSU D85P DOZER WITH TETHER UNIT, SHOWING 1692 HOURS

KOMATSU PC200 EXCAVATOR,

1985 KOMATSU D85 DOZER WITH WINCH ASSIST, SHOWING 4043 HOURS.

$POA

$POA

HOURS ARE AS WHAT HAS BEEN SIGHTED, WE HAVE NO HISTORY ON ANY MECHANICAL WORK AND THEREFORE CANNOT GUARANTEE ANY HOURS AS PLACED IN THE AD. FULL DUE DILIGENCE IS REQUIRED WHEN LOOKING AT THESE ASSETS. $POA

Phone Karl 027 204 3840 Karl@Kiwiassetsolutions.co.nz Under Instruction from Company Liquidators

$90,000 + GST

$195,000 + GST

$420,000 + GST

$389,000 + GST

1 V

JOHN DEERE 748H SKIDDER REF No. 513050

TIGERCAT LH855E TRACKED HARVESTER REF No. 513114

DAVE MCINTYRE

JOHN SOUTHEE

2013. 11145 hrs. 6.8l John Deere engine. Fully serviced at RMD every 250 hours. Pivot pins recently done. Located in Feilding.

027 446 4297

CASE 2050M BULLDOZER REF No. 513318

2019. 7200 hrs. Woodsman 1350C attached.

Tidy machine. Running woodsman 1350C with woodsman harvester controls. Located in Feilding.

2015. 3430 hrs. Semi U blade/rippers attachment.

Low hours, ready for work. Located in Feilding.

027 365 3603

JOHN SOUTHEE

027 365 3603

JOHN DEERE 959MH TRACKED HARVESTER REF No. 513350 2018. 10039 hrs. Southstar FD750 attachment.

Ready for work with a full undercarriage rebuild.

Located in Feilding.

JOHN SOUTHEE

$220,000 + GST

$305,000 + GST

$375,000 + GST

$250,000 + GST

JOHN DEERE 948L REF No. 685933

JOHN DEERE 909KH TRACKED HARVESTER REF No. 512546

TIMBERPRO TF840C REF No . 513535

CAT 535D SKIDDER REF No. 513598

2018. 9600 hrs. Grapple skidder, complete with 6,000 series winch on 35.5 tyres. Just been serviced. Located in Rotorua.

2013. 12400 hrs. Extensive work done, ready for work with option of Satco 325M processing head.

Located in Hastings.

2017. 9600 hrs. Machine been through extensive rebuild, Hydraulic system completely replaced. Tidy example for hours. Located in Hastings.

$80,000 + GST

$320,000 + GST

$190,000 + GST

$114,900 + GST

HITACHI ZX250-3 SWING EXCAVATOR REF No. 513410

TIMBER PRO TL765C TRACKED HARVESTER REF No. 511809

CAT 329DL TRACKED HARVESTER REF No. 513015

DOOSAN DX300 REF No. 513554

NICK CLARK

TERRY DUNCAN

TERRY DUNCAN

BRANDT PUKEKOHE STEPHEN COLLIN

TERRY DUNCAN

027 285 1051

2011. 15500 hrs. Workshop approved, engine replaced at 9000 hours. Located in Hastings.

027 411 2330

NICK CLARK

NICK CLARK

027 411 2330

2016. 8100 hrs. Leveling Harvester, Southstar FD750. All offers will be considered. Located in Rotorua.

027 285 1015

027 411 2330

2012. Approx 13000 hours, EMS forestry build, hydraulic bonnet with purpose built cab. Near new undercarriage. Located in Rotorua.

027 285 1015

NICK CLARK

$250,000 + GST

$500,000 + GST

KOMATSU WA320 REF No. 513553

CAT 555D SKIDDER REF No. 513432

TIGERCAT 625E SKIDDER REF No. 513433

KOMATSU D155AX-8 REF No. 513401

STEPHENPUKEKOHE COLLIN BRANDT

brandt.ca/nz

027 222 (09) 237 1128 0043

TERRY DUNCAN

WHG 09 438 7228 HKB 06 879 9907

027 285 1015

HAM 07 847 0425 MTU 06 350 0042

2019. 8150 hrs. Grapple attachment. Set up with band tracks. Located in Rotorua.

TERRY DUNCAN

ROT 07 345 5490

027 285 1015

027 411 2330

6088 hrs. Fitted with an Everdigm quick hitch and GP bucket. Well serviced and well maintained by the original owner. Located in Pukekohe.

$298,000 + GST

2019. 4400 hrs. Grapple skidder with turn around seat. Low hours, will have new rear tires fitted.

Located in Rotorua.

11

2019. 4365 hrs. A low-hour machine that’s been meticulously maintained. Comprehensive workshop checks already completed. Located in Hastings.

$114,900 + GST

2011. 10331 hrs. Well serviced and well maintained by the original owner. Comes with Loadrite L2180 scales. Located in Pukekohe.

027 365 3603

(09) 222 237 1128 0043 027

2014. 6600 hrs. Low hour Tier 4 engine, single shank ripper, ready for work. Located in Whangarei.

MANSELL NGAROPO

027 445 9840

Ma

ER

3

p

NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS

Sumitomo SH240-5 Loader 2016: 15,826 Hours, Price $55k PLUS GST. Good machine, well maintained Logging.

Two: Tigercat 875/2019 Waratah FL95: 5,791 Hours, 225k PLUS GST. Felling machine used on all types of terrain which is tether compatible and a reliable machine with low hours.

Tigercat 625E 2019 Skidder: 6,633 hours, 150k PLUS GST. Well maintained machine with a good set of tyres.

2010 Komatsu D65 Ex-16 Bulldozer: 5,759 Hours, 110k. Low hours, with good track gear. Also comes with a free logging arch.

2021 Sumitomo SH300/2021 Falcon Winch Assist WA159: 600K PLUS GST, 1,024 Hours. Great conditon with low hours.

Finance & Lease Options Available ASAP. – All Machines are located in Taupo for viewing.

Contact: Ron Thomassen 027 441 3893 Email: ron@thomassengroup.co.nz

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT PARTS PARTS PARTS ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT PARTS PARTS partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com

2013 Tigercat 630D Skidder: 13,659 Hours, 70k PLUS GST. Maintained and looked after machine. New front tyres have been put on the front.

Sumitomo SH300-5TL: 10,584 Hours, 110k PLUS GST. Tidy machine with good track gear with a ensign grapple attached.

LG34626

Komtsu D65 Ex-16 Bulldozer 2011: 7,178 Hours, 100k PLUS GST. Recently refurbished and re-painted in good working condition. Also comes with free logging arch.

Tigercat LS855E felling machine: 10,375 hours, 350k PLUS GST. Reliable felling machine fitted with a Tigercat felling head. (Also Tether Compatible).

NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS NEW NEW NEW ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS

WARATAH WARATAH 624HX 624HX WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 624HX 624HX 624HX Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 624HX 624HX 624HX Available Available Available Now Now Now $299,883.65 $299,883.65 Available Available Available Now Now Now $299,883.65 $299,883.65 $299,883.65 $299,883.65 $299,883.65 $299,883.65

WARATAH WARATAH 626HX 626HX WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626HX 626HX 626HX Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626HX 626HX 626HX Available Available Available Now Now Now $310,235.60 $310,235.60 Available Available Available Now Now Now $310,235.60 $310,235.60 $310,235.60 $310,235.60 $310,235.60 $310,235.60

WARATAH WARATAH H219 H219 WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH H219 H219 H219 Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH H219 H219 H219 Available Available Available Now Now Now $227,931.04 $227,931.04 Available Available Available Now Now Now $227,931.04 $227,931.04 $227,931.04 $227,931.04 $227,931.04 $227,931.04

WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 (S27) (S27) WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S27) (S27) (S27) Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S27) (S27) (S27) Available Available Available Now Now Now $210,000.00 $210,000.00

WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 (S13) (S13) WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S13) (S13) (S13) Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S13) (S13) (S13) Available Available Available Now Now Now $140,000.00 $140,000.00

WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 (S12) (S12) WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S12) (S12) (S12) Available Available Now Now WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 626 626 626 (S12) (S12) (S12) Available Available Available Now Now Now $115,000.00 $115,000.00

ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT PARTS PARTS PARTS ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT PARTS PARTS partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT PARTS PARTS PARTS partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com partscatalog.waratah.com

Available Available Available Now Now Now $140,000.00 $140,000.00 $140,000.00 $140,000.00 $140,000.00 $140,000.00

Hydraulic Hydraulic Cap Kit Cap$400.00 Kit $400.00 Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic CapCap Kit Cap Kit $400.00 Kit $400.00 $400.00 Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic CapCap Kit Cap Kit $400.00 Kit $400.00 $400.00

Hydraulic Hydraulic fittingfitting kit $600.00 kit $600.00 Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic fitting fitting fitting kitkit $600.00 kit $600.00 $600.00 Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic fitting fitting fitting kitkit $600.00 kit $600.00 $600.00

360RS 360RS Grapple Grapple $7500.00 $7500.00 360RS 360RS 360RS Grapple Grapple Grapple $7500.00 $7500.00 $7500.00 360RS 360RS 360RS Grapple Grapple Grapple $7500.00 $7500.00 $7500.00

Saw-motor Saw-motor $3000.00 $3000.00 Saw-motor Saw-motor Saw-motor $3000.00 $3000.00 $3000.00 Saw-motor Saw-motor Saw-motor $3000.00 $3000.00 $3000.00

24/724/7 phone phone 0800 0800 492492 728 728 24/7 24/7 24/7 phone phone phone 0800 0800 0800 492 492 492 728 728 728 or +6or 47 +6 343 47 343 1550 1550 24/7 24/7 24/7 phone phone phone 0800 0800 0800 492 492 492 728 728 728 oror +6or+6 47 +647 343 47343 343 1550 1550 1550 oror +6or+6 47 +647 343 47343 343 1550 1550 1550

Available Available Available Now Now Now $210,000.00 $210,000.00 $210,000.00 $210,000.00 $210,000.00 $210,000.00

MS-18MS-18 motormotor $11,000.00 $11,000.00 MS-18 MS-18 MS-18 motor motor motor $11,000.00 $11,000.00 $11,000.00 MS-18 MS-18 MS-18 motor motor motor $11,000.00 $11,000.00 $11,000.00

USED USED USED AND AND AND REBUILT REBUILT REBUILT USED USED AND AND REBUILT REBUILT ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS USED USED USED AND AND AND REBUILT REBUILT REBUILT ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENTS

WARATAH WARATAH 625C 625C (S28) (S28)

Available Available Available Now Now Now $66,171.60 $66,171.60 $66,171.60 $66,171.60 $66,171.60 $66,171.60

WARATAH WARATAH 624C 624C (S24) (S24) WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 624C 624C 624C (S24) (S24) (S24) Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available August August 2024 2024 WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 624C 624C 624C (S24) (S24) (S24) Rebuild, Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available Available August August August 2024 2024 2024 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 Rebuild, Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available Available August August August 2024 2024 2024 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00

WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 625C 625C 625C (S28) (S28) (S28) Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available Now, Now, $205,000.00 $205,000.00 WARATAH WARATAH WARATAH 625C 625C 625C (S28) (S28) (S28) Rebuild, Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available Available Now, Now, Now, $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00 Rebuild, Rebuild, Rebuild, Available Available Available Now, Now, Now, $205,000.00 $205,000.00 $205,000.00

MOIPU MOIPU 505 505 RC RC MOIPU MOIPU MOIPU 505 505 505 RC RC RC Available Available Now Now MOIPU MOIPU MOIPU 505 505 505 RC RC RC Available Available Available Now Now Now $66,171.60 $66,171.60

Available Available Available Now Now Now $115,000.00 $115,000.00 $115,000.00 $115,000.00 $115,000.00 $115,000.00

19HX19HX 100 FT100 Roll FT$580.00 Roll $580.00 19HX 19HX 19HX 100100 FT100 FT Roll FT Roll $580.00 Roll $580.00 $580.00 19HX 19HX 19HX 100100 FT100 FT Roll FT Roll $580.00 Roll $580.00 $580.00

H625CH625C set ofset 3 feed of 3 feed rollers rollers $5000.00 $5000.00 624C624C High High wearwear kit $4500.00 kit $4500.00 H625C H625C H625C setset ofset 3offeed of 3 feed 3 feed rollers rollers rollers $5000.00 $5000.00 $5000.00 624C 624C 624C High High High wear wear wear kitkit $4500.00 kit $4500.00 $4500.00 H625C H625C H625C setset ofset 3offeed of 3 feed 3 feed rollers rollers rollers $5000.00 $5000.00 $5000.00 624C 624C 624C High High High wear wear wear kitkit $4500.00 kit $4500.00 $4500.00

Distributors Distributors of: of: Distributors Distributors Distributors of:of:of: Distributors Distributors Distributors of:of:of:

PricesPrices are less areGST less and GSTlimited and limited time for time theformonth the month of thisofpublication this publication Prices Prices Prices areare less are less GST less GST and GST and limited and limited limited time time for time for thefor the month the month month of this of this ofpublication this publication publication Prices Prices Prices areare less are less GST less GST and GST and limited and limited limited time time for time for thefor the month the month month of this of this ofpublication this publication publication