The Australian Arbor Age December - January 2023

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THE HEAT IS ON

Hey-up, everyone!

Welcome to a new issue of The Australian Arbor Age magazine, and, believe it or not, to a new editor.

It’s a little daunting to work on a magazine like this one. It has a long history and I knew the founder well. I actually worked on the title here and there over the past few years, especially on the 20th anniversary issue, and that was a fair while ago. In arborial terms, perhaps AA is from the old-growth forest of the publishing world. It certainly deserves the same type of care and respect.

So it’s with no small level of trepidation I plonk myself down behind the editor’s desk to become custodian of such a wellestablished industry voice.

Fortunately, ‘custodian’ is probably a good description. I don’t actually have to do a great deal. There are fantastic people here in the Prime Creative Media office, and even more great people from the associations and

industry groups around the country who share freely their technical knowledge and give the magazine its credibility. All I have to do is collate the material and make sure it’s on time.

Gulp.

The on-time thing has generated some heat this issue, I can tell you.

But it’s been worth working through the few sticking points. We have a whopping section of association news, and that’s thanks to people like Jim McArdle of the TCAA and Brian Beecroft of the TTIA. The QAA’s Queensland Tree Climbing Championship looks like it was an awesome occasion, and the pics and list of winners are included alongside a roundup of what looks to have been a very big year for the northerners.

Sorry! Am I allowed to say ‘roundup’?

I have so much to learn.

One character and colourful personality to whom I owe a huge vote of thanks is Cassian Humphreys.

Cassian has had the care of the magazine for a long time, and he could’ve been

handed such a prime creative position. But to his credit, Cass was not only entirely understanding, he went to considerable lengths to offer encouragement and to try something new for this issue. It was a big departure from his regular writing style, and I know better than most how challenging that can be.

In the spirit of transparency, I have to admit things were made much easier because it turned out Cassian and I have a common interest: we’re both keen adventure motorcycle riders, something he’s included in his thoughts, as you’ll read.

But there’s plenty going elsewhere in the magazine, as always, and although the team has pushed hard to have this issue ready before Christmas, there’s been no compromise in quality.

Find yourself somewhere quiet, stow the PPE and tools for a while, turn the page and see what’s happening with the Australian arboriculture community.

Have a great Christmas, relax a whole heap, and we’ll be back with you in the new year.

Warm

regards Tom Foster, Editor. AA

Husqvarna’s Spire™ Vent Arborist Helmet is the focus of the On The Cover story on pages 8 and 9.

Copyright

The Australian Arbor Age magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in The Australian Arbor Age magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

The opinions expressed in The Australian Arbor Age magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2022-23

Articles All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Head Office 397 Docklands Drive Docklands VIC 3008 P: +61 3 9690 8766 enquiries@primecreative.com.au www.primecreative.com.au

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CASSIAN HUMPHREYS

is a Merrist-woodian graduate (NCH-arb - 1991) qualified to Diploma level in Australia (09), his career commenced in Horticulture (85) and transitioned into Arboriculture (89). An experienced tree climber, instructor, arboriculturist, consultant, educator and writer, he has 30 years of experience. He sees his work as making a contribution to the Australian arboricultural profession.

BACK UP!

How-to-lift programs not doing the job.

Heads of Workplace Safety Authorities (HWSA) has reported important shortcomings in the manual-handling training available to Australian workers. Incorrect lifting techniques can lead to various injuries, and several safety organisations have come up with improvements in training methods around lifting.

These include:

• Consulting with workers to assess risks and hazards, and reviewing current training systems

• Implementing control measures for possible lifting and hazardous manual tasks at the workplace, and

• Ensuring information provided to workers is adequate in covering lifting safety.

“Industry, business, unions, health-andsafety professionals and training providers should not promote, provide, or use how-tolift training as a sole or primary strategy to

meet legislative requirements or to control hazardous manual task risks,” a recent report from HWSA read. “Instead, duty holders should design the work to be safe in the first place, adhere to the hierarchy of controls and provide suitable and adequate training to workers.”

Peak bodies who authored the paper include HWSA members Comcare, SafeWork NSW, SafeWork SA, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, WorkSafe Tasmania, WorkSafe Victoria, WorkSafe WA and WorkSafe New Zealand.

SafeWork NSW review

A familiar former judge is heading up a second review into SafeWork NSW.

Retired Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Robert McDougall KC, will lead the review into SafeWork NSW ordered by the state government, and will look into the governance, operations and culture of SafeWork NSW.

It’s a separate enquiry to a performance audit being done by NSW Auditor-General Margaret Crawford.

“Mr McDougall’s review provides an opportunity to get started now and can more fulsomely cover issues such as culture than is possible through a performance audit,” Customer Service and Digital Government Minister Victor Dominello said.

Justice McDougall has been part of previous reviews into iCare and NSW’s State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) during 2020-21.

“NSW Parliament passed legislation in 2016 to abolish WorkCover and replace it with iCare, SIRA and SafeWork NSW as three separate entities,” Mr Dominello said. “SafeWork NSW is the only one of these three entities that has not been independently reviewed since the reforms. For that reason, a review of the operations of SafeWork NSW is now appropriate.

“This review will look at issues raised and provide the government with independent insights that will be both powerful and instructive.”

Maintaining proper form is a must to keep backs healthy in the long term.

Opposition spokesperson Sophie Cotsis raised concerns about safety breaches not being followed up by SafeWork via on-site inspections in October 2022. AA

The review will look at issues raised and provide independent insights.

PROTECT WHAT’S MOST IMPORTANT: YOU

When it comes to the arborist and tree-care industry, keeping yourself protected is critical. Husqvarna’s Spire™ Vent Arborist helmet has been designed for the professional arborist who requires convenience and style at work without compromising safety and protection.

Fit and air flow

This advanced tree-care helmet is lightweight and well ventilated, with a universal fit and a wheel ratchet for easy size adjustment.

Boasting a range of design features, the first thing you’ll notice is the superior streamlined air vents that allow heat to escape while boosting airflow. These vents help improve overall comfort when working in warm climates and challenging conditions, and also help minimise sweat and oil build up.

Another feature is the quick-dry fabric padding on the inside of the helmet. Enjoy cushion-like comfort throughout the day without the unpleasant feeling of saturated padding. Instead of absorbing moisture, the high-tech fabric dries very quickly, while improved airflow helps transport it back into the air and away from your head. The padding is easy to remove and clean, ensuring no odour and bacteria build up over time.

Comfort

The addition of an eco-leather four-point chinstrap minimises chafing and skin irritation around the neck and jawline for a more comfortable experience. Eco-leather is naturally hypoallergenic, meaning the risk of experiencing allergic skin reactions often experienced with chemically treated manmade fabrics is minimised.

When looking at safety, Husqvarna has taken into account more than just potential impacts. Visibility is key to staying safe when working in bush, forests and farmland, which is why you’ll find strategically placed high-vis reflective stickers that provide 360° visibility.

Convenience and style at work without compromising safety and protection.

Summing up

The Husqvarna Spire™ Vent Arborist helmet features:

• High-vis reflective detailing for improved visibility

• Quick-dry fabric padding on the interior of the helmet

• Eco-leather, hypoallergenic, four-point chinstrap for improved comfort

• Streamlined and optimised vents and maximised interior air space

• Easy-to-remove and easy-to-wash interior padding

• Sleek and stylish overall design for a professional look and feel

• Quick-release visor for fast and easy on-the-job visor changes, and

• Removable harness front loop and helmet attachment loop.

Visors and accessories

A range of three visors has been created especially for the Spire™ Vent Arborist helmet (all sold separately):

• Spire™ Vent Clear Visor – best for cloudy/ low-light conditions

• Spire™ Vent Smoke Visor – best for partial cloud/moderately sunny days, and

• Spire™ Vent Silver Mirror Visor – best for full-sunlight/bright conditions.

No matter what the weather is doing or the task at hand, select the most appropriate visor, click it into position and get to work quickly and safely. Finished with anti-fog and anti-scratch treatments, the in-built rubber seal prevents liquid from dripping into your eyes, while the panoramic design gives improved visuals.

The helmet is also equipped with attachments for mounting headlamps, earmuffs and fulfils European standard EN 12492 for work at heights.

SOLDIERY, ADVENTURE RIDING & ARBORICULTURE CATALYSTS FOR NATURACULTURE ( i CULTURE

) : LAND

CARE VIA VEGETATION

MANAGEMENT ( PART 2 ) .

In Part 1 of Land Care via Vegetation Management in the June/July issue I covered the topic of arboriculture as a service moving into an era of climate change, with sustainability, resilience, and cultural practice. That article laid down the background, this article introduces another new word/cultural practice: naturaculture.

Custodians

Considering that like the tree, no human really stands alone, I see the need to embrace all the land-based professions, and to this end I’m inclined to call this the way of naturaculture. As with ‘horti’ for

gardens, and ‘arbor’ for tree, ‘natura’ is Latin for nature, and the culture of nature is the key that links sustainability, resilience, and the landcare professions with the same New Earth principles.

In the first part of this story I considered the land-based professions as being made up of horticulture, agriculture, forestry, plant nurseries, arboriculture, permaculture, organic, biodynamic and syntropic farming. The first four make up the larger portion of land-based enterprise, and the final quartet are perhaps more concerned with environmental and economic resilience. To have a place in the New Earth, our

professions, and the industries they support, have to balance both equations. The purpose of this second instalment – this will feature in a number of future articles – is to assist arborists to be ready to deliver climate-change solutions as custodians of the New Earth.

Why soldiery, adventure riding and arboriculture?

In the course of my life I’ve had the honour to know many soldiers, and I’ve met as many arborists who became soldiers as I have soldiers who became arborists. We arboriculturists share strong parallels

Cassian Humphreys considers New Earth principles.

Andansonia gregorii – Australian Baobab, the epitome of resilience, native to far-north WA and the Northern Territory.

with soldiers: to succeed in our profession we need physical and mental endurance, resilience, adaptability, strength, the ability to move and to deal with extremes, the list goes on. Another parallel between arboriculture and soldiery is sacrifice. Many true arbs work on trees because of the calling: the money is secondary. We put ourselves at risk in service to the tree, and that involves the wildlife, the custodians, the landowners and managers.

Another important parallel is classically Australian and involves the Avenues of Honour, street trees planted in honour of fallen soldiers. It’s these historical avenues that really unite us in service to people and trees.

So, what about adventure riding?

Parallels unite

The founder of the The Australian Arbor Age, Kurt Quambusch, is a highly experienced adventure rider, as is our new AA editor. I’ve been riding for 14 years (I’m on my second DR650 – a 2020 model) and adventure riding takes us overland through all terrains, all types of country, all

weathers, and a host of extremes. We have to be fit and to share those same traits that unite arborists and soldiers.

Talking of a soldier and an adventure rider, I had the honour to get close to an ex-soldier of SWASPES (Southwest African Specialist Unit), John Alexander, now in his 60s, who used to ride into action with Bike Squad, which was active between 1977 and 1985. The story of the 450 mounted troops is covered in the book Bike Squad Rider by Yuri Maree. In truth I’ve known few

adventure rider/arborists (I’m one of few I can think of), yet again parallels unite us.

Integrity

So, what are the parallels?

In the world of the integrated-lands person, personal development is prime and integrity is all. The role models of top-end integrity as I see it share more than the list above. They are simply linked by one word: nature. Natural intelligence unifies the best of us, whether it’s bushmen, arborists, soldiers, or adventure riders. In the world of the ‘traditional’ human living on the edge of oneself is a very masculine trait – though women clearly take it to a greater level with child labour. We thrive on our connection to the land and nature. The near-death experience constantly melds us into better versions of ourselves. Climbing arborists know this. Leaning out on their lifelines, using balance, core strength, footwork and breathwork, while every fibre of the body screams as that final cut is made. The same can be said of the sportsman, the martial artist, or in combat.

Having grown up as a sensitive fellow and a father to sensitive sons, I needed to develop some ‘wood’ as an arborist, adventurer, and a man of integrity. I’ve had to temper myself with life’s knocks and blows. Yet underpinning that is an infinite sensitivity which enables the reading of nature in all her glorious faces. This sensitivity I now value over all else. It is this, I perceive, that sets us aside as people of integrity.

A journey

The experience of our true nature also comes out when riding motorcycles. The very act of balancing on two wheels engages the mind-

“Climbing arborists know this. Leaning out on their lifelines, using balance, core strength, footwork and breathwork, while every fibre of the body screams as that final cut is made.”

The diversity of heathland species running from SA into WA is astonishing.

Bike Squad Rider by Yuri Maree.

Dangers are real, but rewards are huge.

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body in a fine dance, where the left and right hemispheres of the brain get an exceptional workout. The art of riding, simultaneously juggling clutch, rear brake, gear selection and accelerator, is a higher form of ‘cross crawl’ psychologists and kinesiologists teach to assist with mind/body integration. I just rode my DR from just north of the ACT to Bridgetown WA. I had the opportunity to put my riding experience to the ultimate test.

After six days of travel, with all the variables, including flood-impacted roads, I felt I’d never done anything so dangerous. All I could embrace was the gratitude of connection, trust, and faith in the infinite...that, and the bursts of sunshine that broke through and the incredible wildflowers I photographed for friends and family along the route.

“We put ourselves at risk in service to the tree, and that involves the wildlife, the custodians, the landowners and managers.”

A glorious bush camp in SA.

The author with a wildflower-inspired grin.

Wider view

There are mind/body subtleties involving softness and strength (tension and compression in light of tree biomechanics) that are very hard to describe and that we can only experience. These we learn as adventure riders, they do not feature in books or apps. Similar subtleties exist in the art of arboriculture and soldiery, yet they are all linked by the same thing: naturaculture, the culture of nature.

I first learned this by studying the ‘science’ of swordsmanship (I used to be at competition level). Principally via the lore of Musashi Miyamoto 15C Japanese Sword Master and

his Book Of 5 Rings. He spoke of the way of the sword (the way of naturaculture) as being best learned by studying the way of many nature-based disciplines (including gardening).

Whether we draw on natural intelligence to be swordsmen, make gardens, to prune trees for stormproofing, or ride a motorcycle, whether we use our natural senses to feather the clutch for fine tuning bike performance, or to feather ourselves (to strike or yield ground) when an ‘enemy’ tries to break us, in essence it’s all one. That which ego (identity) can never truly know, the spirit self, the natural self, the god self, (in light of the tree) I call it ‘the gap’,

the intercellular space. To find it, to own it, to live it, all we must do is to surrender into ‘it’ – unto nature.

I appreciate this article as a follow up to Land Care via Vegetation Management Part 1 is somewhat left of centre and a break from my very tree-centric articles, but the point as I see it is that for us arborists to be potent in our integrity as tree, vegetation, and land managers, we are to embrace all of ourselves.

To quote Shigo, ‘…this involves muscle and brain’, creating mind-body space for the soldier, adventurer, arboriculturist and the academic with naturaculture as the driver’. AA

A dedication to Boer War-era Australian Soldiers. This scene epitomises the Aussie spirit, honouring nature, history, and humanity.

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PRACTICAL PEOPLE

Should pro tree workers join an industry association like the TCAA? Jim McArdle thinks so.

The relevance of being associated with a peak body like the Tree Contractors Association of Australia (TCAA) came up in discussion with a contractor, Craig. Craig only does stumps, and has been in the industry for as long as I can remember. His response was not good. I recall he suggested the NAA (now AA) and TCAA were like ‘…a dead horse being dragged around’.

There are a lot of reasons why people in the industry are connected with the TCAA. I felt as though Craig had missed the point, or hadn’t been informed of the advantages of belonging to an industry association. Hopefully the information on these pages will allow Craig, and others who may not know what a professional association is all about, a new lease on life if he chooses to join up as a level-3 arborist.

Pro service and safety

For starters the TCAA membership is given to the business not the individual, this takes into account relevant insurances, business registration ASIC, ABN, ACN and qualifications at the current level.

Not just anyone can join a professional association like the TCAA. Applications are reviewed. Nobody wants rogues or ill-equipped, unqualified or unscrupulous arborists damaging the reputation of the whole industry. There are numerous treecare horror stories circulating due to people like these, and they leave everyone feeling gutted.

Safety is another big part of the reason arborists should associate with the TCAA.

Tendering for government work also suggests the RFI or contracted job takes account of the professional membership.

Trained and competent

There are many pointers to why the TCAA should be thoroughly considered and a podcast of this interview is on the TCAA website.

In discussion with Tree Corp Life member Tony Jarvis, I found association members were licensed, referenced and fully insured, with external auditing. That’s a great reason to consider joining the industry group, especially when quoting.

“We are members of the Tree Contractors Association of Australia,” said Tony, “and when they audit us you know the standards we have are good.

“It’s the same with people who are on council. The council usually audits its list, so you can virtually guarantee they have $20 million public liability, workers’ compensation is up to scratch, superannuation is bonded, qualifications are relevant, they have the correct machinery, their gear is in good working order and serviced, people are highly visible with correct PPE, and the safe-work method statements and WHS material is also up to scratch.”

Toolbox assessing trees affected by bushfire. AQF 5 arborists at Armidale, NSW.

Safety first

The other requirement of being fit for work is being physically fit.

TCAA industry members are very fit, with two member leaders, being fitness freaks.

You can’t be unfit and climb trees all day. But the other side is tree contracting can be exhausting, and fatigue is a difficult condition that must be monitored within the team by the team leader. If a climber is exhausted, they shouldn’t climb.

Tony stated, “No cutting corners. If the job takes longer and we lose a job, at the end of the day we can usually do it first up in the morning. If the client doesn’t understand this, then we don’t want their business. We will not jeopardise safety.

“Climate conditions are important, too. If the climber says it’s too wet, then it’s off. We do not question that. The climber is the best team member to know if conditions are safe or not safe. He is the leading hand.

“Industry-association membership is good, and if the client wants to get other

quotes, they should compare apples with apples.” This extract is from a podcast on the TCAA website.

Best industry practice

As it’s an unregulated industry, the client has the responsibility if someone without workers’ comp is invited onto a property and they hurt themselves. Accidents do happen, and the best way forward is to ensure there is a policy and procedure to follow when things go wrong.

The TCAA hotline at HQ receives calls all the time regarding tree issues and accidents, but if the workers concerned are not members, police or fair trading are usually involved. With damages the client is always able to be represented if they chose an TCAA arborist.

Belonging to an industry association is like a feather in the cap. It’s very important. It’s about learning from other experienced and practical people. The collegiality in our work and the overlap of TCAA work

It’s about learning from other experienced and practical people.

is a legacy and assists in better industry practice (BIP). This extract is from a podcast on the TCAA website.

As an example, there was an issue of access for an EWP on a job in Gosford, NSW, because the grounds were saturated. The TCAA was called up as an AQFcertified, level-5 consultant with industry experience, to ensure the methodology was suitable for the use of cranes and trucks.

As good as the industry can be, it’s times like that when creative problem-solving, best industry practice and utilising the hierarchy of control can make the difference. The hierachy of controls was listed in the old Code of Practice, but now is found in SafeWork NSW’s Hiring a treeworker.

Professionalism

TCAA membership used to meet in Silverwater. Currently the TCAA meets in NSW, mainly in Sydney, but we have met in Ryde TAFE, Tuggerah, Adelaide, Brisbane and even Darwin, and our constitution, the founding platform for these many years, is very secure.

As an arboricultural industry profession, we suggest studying for the correct level of qualification at which you or your business work.

A story which brings me to the next point. When in Cairns, sitting down at a table, a tree contractor member watched three tree blokes working and cutting. They could cut, but that was it. They could not cut to a standard, they tore branches, they didn’t undercut, and they didn’t have safety gear.

“Not just anyone can join a professional association. Nobody wants rogues or ill-equipped, unqualified or unscrupulous arborists damaging the reputation of the whole industry industry.”

A TCAA arborist is able to do this pruning work professionally, along with other associated works, including:

• Remedial treatments

• Tree surgery

• Estimations

• Crane work

• Bracing

• Stump grinding

• Clearing

• Chipping, and

• Assessment.

TCAA members would carry out all these tasks using sustainable practices and suitable workflow.

Industry support

Tree inspections with collegial experts in all parts of Australia are also a bonus when travelling. We have a new member from Dubbo and one from the Hunter, and they both have contracted in the tree industry for over 10 years. This month we have a colleague who has been clearing powerlines for many years around the mountains, and I encouraged him to finish his AQF level 3 and apply to the TCAA.

The other 95% of arborists in this unregulated industry are not like you and me. In my local area, the Central Coast of NSW, there are over 120 companies and

businesses associated with tree works. But when I go over the TCAA membership for the area, we have several companies represented, and all have more than 20 years experience. This suggests one in 40 businesses would be audited, licensed and qualified. Again, it’s an unregulated industry and conducting business with a non-TCAA member is probably the norm, but a successful TCAA arborist candidate has to score 100% as a good business manager, and even so, the tree industry is financially hard on the business owner.

As economic times get harder the experience pays off and the TCAA family supports its members. We know some members have other memberships to ISA, IACA and Arboriculture Australia, and it’s certainly an important freedom. But joining the TCAA is beneficial as the association has a practical purpose and a vision to be licensed with a professional body following best industry practices. I’ve categorised these benefits into: The role of the TCA; Best Industry Practices; TCAA Vision; TCAA Initiatives; Assistance; and Marketing and Documents (literature provided to our members).

The role of the TCAA

• TCAA executive and board to assist the associates in day-to-day issues. Responsibility to members in industry relations and proper conduct of business.

• Assisting consumers. Watchdog to the community and unscrupulous operators.

• Promote best industry practice.

Best Industry Practice

• As members providing skilled tree workers and arborists AQF 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8, and inhouse training to employees improve quality of work practice. Add value to employees. Now have the new Eco -Arborist that caters for sensitive sites.

• Suppliers of documentation to assist with proper and safe workplace etiquette and team performance.

• Promotion of safe practices leading to reduction of near-miss and reportable incidents.

Vision

• The incorporation of indigenous peoples. The TCAA has always supported, and will continue to support ,indigenous peoples in the workplace.

• Partnership with loyalty sponsors.

• Allowing the propagation of careers for women in arboriculture. MAE programme with smart and skilled mentors.

• Pathway peoples from school. Attendance as guest speakers to assist careers for society.

• Engendered, aged and disability placement workers supported.

• Technology in the workplace.

• Sustainable businesses. Discussion on green culture.

• Design/assist/represent training packages to assist the arborist requirements for industry

• Legacy.

Initiatives

The TCAA leads the industry with initiatives including:

• First to licencing. In 2014 the TCAA was the first industry association Australiawide to introduce licencing and members’ independent auditing by BNG Conserve.

• EPA raw mulch order. In 2014 the TCAA assisted the EPA in the development of the current Raw Mulch Order that was workable and practicable for the movement and storage of woodchip and mulch.

• Code-of-conduct document – later absorbed into the ‘Safework’

• Review of Safework’s website on ‘Hiring a tree worker’ and ‘Engaging a contractor’

• The TCAA successfully assisted with having the 2005 ban on climbers attaching to the hook of a crane overturned. In 2011 assisted with the development of a Draft Code of Practice Safe Access in Tree Trimming and Arboriculture 2011 and including Regulation 221 Crane Work for Tree Trimming and Codes of Practices.

• Department of Education NSW DET TCAA 2104 committed to development of the Tree Management Guidelines for NSW School and the TCAA Tree Management Guidelines.

• Training programmes for arborists. Development and engagement with industry skills councils, TAFE NSW and

A feather in the cap by Nelsons Beach, Vaucluse, NSW.

other Registered Training Organisations with development of Arboriculture Training Packages from 2003 to 2020 across the spectrum of qualification and training units within the Arboriculture fields of study.

• Career days for school leavers.

• Aerial Rescue Day and TCAA 2015 gained $135,000 in training funds for members and partners with Active Industry Training to deliver training 20 AQF level 3 arborists, and Ryde TAFE for 10 AQF 5 arborists.

• Industry alerts with safety presentations and instruction for safe works.

• Guest speakers invited to TCAA days to allow for cross-industry initiatives to be presented.

• Providing professional advice and guest speakers for Garden Club support.

• Mentorship and traineeship to personnel. Knowledge base of experience.

• Guidelines rates (costings) for the industry.

• 2006 development and published of on-site hazard and preliminary assessment books for members maintaining OH&S and WH&S guidance material assisted by WorkCover NSW. This workbook is currently provided for TCAA members.

• The updating of the site hazard book for AQF 2, 3 and 5 arborists was also reviewed in 2020.

• Production of TCAA certificates and training days

• Recognising leadership and giving awards for leadership.

Meetings and representations

• AGM meetings

• Ministry meetings

• Meeting with industry leaders and educational heads, international and national.

• Industry celebrations and awards.

• Meetings with TAFE heads, council panels, council officials and other government officials.

• Collegiality and transfer of most information, including jobs information.

• Collegiality with other likeminded groups: Western Australian Guild, VITA, TTIA, NSW, Smart and Skilled, RYDE TAFE and Melbourne Uni

• Networking and meeting with climbers and field visits to TCAA associates.

• Profiling the arborist. How to achieve and step up.

ZOOM/Teams meetings to assist

• Introducing conduits of work through the TCAA website.

• Collegiality of business leaders.

• Industry collegiality to pass work on to TCAA members.

• Discounts on insurances.

• Advertisement page for new and used machinery and jobs profile on website.

• Profiling the TCAA members and assisting new members in the promotion of successful business leaders. Includes face-to-face discussions.

• Sponsors who allow for TCAA member discounts.

• Collegial toolbox meetings on unusual or difficult projects.

The Bear Tree at Birrong, NSW.

Marketing

• Conserve – auditing for licensing, and advertising through the Conserve dashboard to linked councils

• Newsletters Chipper Chatter.

• Interviews with ABC, Channel 7 and Channel 9

“Joining the TCAA is beneficial as the association has a practical purpose and vision.”

Hedge Legends at Elizabeth Bay did a nice job.

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QAA NEWS

QAA – delivering excellence in Arboriculture.

And just like that 2022 has almost come to an end.

It’s been an extremely busy year at the QAA, with a record number of events run, progress made in our goal of developing arborist-specific codes of practice, and celebrating our 30th year. While the end of 2022 is in sight, we’re not putting our feet up just yet.

The QAA, along with other arboricultural associations across Australia, was recently asked to provide feedback on Safe Work Australia’s guide to managing the risks of tree trimming and removal work, to align the guide with the revised regulations. We know the proposed legislation to bring in a twoindependent-anchor-point set up for climbing is likely to provide a challenge for the industry, particularly around regulation and punishment for non-compliance. The QAA

has provided its feedback to Arboriculture Australia on this matter for inclusion in its consensus feedback for Safe Work Australia.

We will keep you updated as we hear more about this.

Event recap: QTCC

The 2022 Queensland Tree Climbing Championship (QTCC) was held at Colmslie Beach Reserve on November 4th and 5th.

QTCC is always the most anticipated event on QAA’s calendar, and it’s not hard to see why, with competitors enjoying two days of camaraderie and competition as some of the best climbers in the country tested their ability across Aerial Rescue, Ascent, Belayed Speed Climb, Throwline, and Work Climb.

We were fortunate to have International Tree Climbing Champion Barton Allen-Hall

join us for an exhibition climb and to show off his skills. There’s no doubt several newer competitors learnt plenty from Barton’s runs which they will take into their next climbs.

The 2022 QTCC Champions were Jamie Boston (male) and Jess Hamer (female).

Congratulations to both Jamie and Jess on their outstanding performances across the two days, as well as our individual event winners:

• Aerial Rescue: Jamie Boston and Jess Hamer

• Ascent: Barton Allen-Hall and Jess Hamer

• Belayed Speed Climb: Seb McDonald and Jess Hamer

• Throwline: Barton Allen-Hall and Jess Hamer

• Work Climb: Terry Boston and Jess Hamer

• Rookie of the Competition: Reuben Berlic

• Spirit of the Competition: Bec Dalton

The QAA would like to thank the amazing sponsors, particularly event sponsor

Husqvarna, who helped make the event fantastic through lower ticket prices and by providing awesome prizes for the winners. Thank you also to Arbor Industrial, Arb Supplies, Inspiration Trees, PowerClear, and Reecoil.

Finally, a massive shout out to the outstanding volunteers. It takes a lot of hands to put on QTCC and we simply couldn’t do it without the amazing people who helped with setting up the competition and across the two days. The QAA always appreciates your efforts.

30 Year Gala Dinner

QAA’s 30 Year Gala Dinner was held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Brisbane on November 19. Print deadlines mean there’s no recap or list of award winners in this issue, but they are already available on QAA’s social-media pages and will be included in the February-March 2023 issue of The Australian Arbor Age

Upcoming events: AGM

After being rescheduled, the QAA’s 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held online via Teams on Tuesday, December 13, 2022. The meeting is open to all QAA members who are warmly invited to attend.

At the meeting, members will have the opportunity to find out about the QAA’s operations and finances, speak about any items on the agenda, and vote on any resolutions proposed. Members will also be asked to vote to accept the minutes of the last AGM, the annual report, the auditor’s report, and the annual financial statements. The 2022-23 Executive Committee will also be elected at the AGM.

Information has already been sent to all QAA members. If you have specific questions or would like to find out more information about becoming a member of the QAA prior to this meeting, please email office@qaa.net.au, or call 07 3821 1488.

2023 events calendar

As 2022 draws to a close, the QAA has been looking ahead and planning for events in 2023. All climbing competitions will be back, as well as multiple workshops covering a range of topics. We are very excited to have Bryan Gould present a number of workshops

throughout the year, including formal writing, tree assessment, trees in the landscape, introduction sessions in tree biology and physiology, and responses to stimuli. These will no doubt prove very popular, with discounts offered depending on the number of workshops booked.

A complete Events and Workshops Calendar for 2023 will be published on the QAA website before the end of the year. Registration will open for events and workshops closer to each event date. Follow us on the QAA socials to stay up to date with when bookings open.

New year

As this is our final article for 2022, the QAA would like to thank all those who supported us throughout the year and wish you all a merry Christmas and happy new year. The QAA office will be closed from Wednesday, December 21, 2022, until Tuesday, January 24, 2023, to give staff and committee time to relax and celebrate with friends and families.

We have some exciting things in the pipeline for 2023 and look forward to sharing them with you in the new year.

QAA Executive

For info call QAA on (07) 3821 1488, email office@qaa.net.au, or you can go to www.qaa.net.au. Follow us on Facebook (QueenslandArboriculturalAssociation), Twitter (QLD_Arb_Assoc), Instagram (qaa_arborist), LinkedIn (queenslandarboricultural-association) or via the QAA App. AA

It was great to have interstate climbers back at QTCC in 2022.

Champions were Jamie Boston (left) and Jess Hamer. Outstanding performers!

QTCC is always the most anticipated event on QAA’s calendar.

PROPOSED MAJOR IR CHANGES EXPLAINED

The TTIA’s CEO, Brian Beecroft, has a look at a new bill to amend the Fair Work Act – the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Bill 2022.

On 26 October 2022, the Minister for Industrial Relations introduced a bill into parliament to amend the Fair Work Act 2009 (‘the Act’) and related legislation which, when passed, will have many significant changes for employers in Australia.

(Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Bill 2022 (‘the Bill’) is the first of at least two tranches of amendments to the Fair Work Act, dealing with some previously published parts of the Government’s election platform earlier this year, but also many changes where details were not publicised as part of the platform. Minister Tony Burke has stated the second tranche will be next year.

The Bill and its supporting Explanatory Memorandum (EM) are very detailed, each over 200 pages in length, and require careful examination. Despite the complexity of the amendments and their implications for employers, it appears the government intended to enact the changes before the parliament rises on 1 December (after the deadline for this magazine). Although the Bill has been referred to a Senate Committee, submissions to the Senate Inquiry closed on Friday, 11 November.

The Bill, if passed, will involve changes for the following:

• Enterprise bargaining

• The objects of the Fair Work Act

• Equal remuneration

• Prohibiting ‘pay secrecy’

• Sexual harassment

• Anti-discrimination

• Fixed-term contracts of employment

• Requests for flexible working arrangements

• Small claims, and

• Pay advertisements.

Enterprise bargaining

In relation to enterprise bargaining, it’s already apparent the proposed changes would be very significant, perhaps the most significant changes since bargaining at the enterprise level was introduced in 1993. The new bargaining streams in the Bill appear to be intended to operate in favour of industry, quasi-industry, or pattern bargaining, at the expense of enterprise bargaining. The amendments would permit, under certain circumstances, compulsory bargaining initiated by unions, compulsory arbitration, and scope for employers to be ‘roped-in’ by unions, with or without their consent, into other employer agreements. A brief overview of the proposed changes are provided in the following tables.

TTIA will be going through any changes in depth in its first post-COVID member seminars during the first half of 2023.

If you need further details phone (02) 9264 0011 or email ttia@ttia.asn.au

The Fair Work Legislation Amendment

TTIA CEO, Brian Beecroft. TTIA will go through any changes in depth in its first member seminars during the first half of 2023.

THE BILL’S ENTERPRISE BARGAINING CHANGES

ENTERPRISE AGREEMENTS

Employer application to terminate an enterprise agreement

Sunsetting of ‘zombie’ agreements

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

A stricter test would apply where an employer seeks to terminate an enterprise agreement (without employee agreement). If the termination is approved, a guarantee of termination entitlements may apply for up to 4 years.

Pre-Fair Work EAs (including Div 2B State agreements) will automatically terminate at the end of a ‘grace period’ of 12 months after commencement of the amendments. Extensions can be approved by the Commission in limited circumstances. Fair Work ‘bridging agreements’ would also sunset automatically, although applications for longer extensions could be approved in limited circumstances. Employers would also be required to provide employees notice within six months of commencement of the legislation, of the automatic sunsetting, its timing, and the FWC’s role in approving extensions on application.

Enterprise agreement approval

Changes to definition of ‘genuinely agreed’ – including a new Statement of Principles on genuine agreement mostly reflecting a number of current requirements, although other, perhaps additional, requirements can be included in the regulations. Requirement to issue NERR limited to singleemployer agreements only.

Initiating bargaining

In certain circumstances bargaining for a single-enterprise agreement can be initiated by a union and an employer can be compelled to issue an NERR and bargain. The Commission would also have power to issue bargaining orders in some circumstances, regardless of whether an employer has consented to bargaining.

Better off overall test (BOOT)

The amendments refer to the BOOT being a ‘global assessment’ of each employee to be covered by the agreement. The EM states the global assessment would apply in place of a ‘line-by-line’ assessment. The BOOT test would be applied to employees who are, or would be, covered at the test time (removing consideration of hypothetical employees). The FWC will also be required to give primary consideration to a common view of the bargaining representatives for the employer and employees relating to whether the agreement passes the BOOT. This relaxation of the BOOT, however, coincides with the Bill enabling the Commission to later reconsider an agreement and reapply the BOOT to an agreement already operating where circumstances (such as working arrangements) may have changed since approval.

Dealing with errors in enterprise agreements

Bargaining disputes

Industrial action

The Commission would be able to vary an enterprise agreement on its own initiative or on application to correct ‘errors, defects or irregularities’.

A bargaining representative could apply to the Commission for an ‘intractable bargaining declaration’. An intractable bargaining dispute is one where the Commission has dealt with the bargaining dispute through other processes and there are no reasonable prospects of agreement between the bargaining parties. Where an intractable bargaining declaration is made, parties may not be able to take industrial action while such a declaration is in force, and the FWC may make an ‘intractable bargaining workplace determination,’ arbitrating certain matters still at issue. This would not be available for a bargaining of a multi-enterprise agreement (unless a supported bargaining authorisation is in operation in relation to the agreement).

Among other changes, the FWC would be required to conduct conferences with the parties after making a protected action ballot (PAB) order, but before voting closes in relation to the PAB, for the purpose of mediation or conciliation in relation to the agreement. The period of protected industrial action resulting from a PAB and employer response actions would be limited to three months, although further PABs could be applied for. For a single-interest employer agreement or supported bargaining agreement, the notice period for taking industrial action would be 120hrs (otherwise remaining three working days for other eligible types of agreements). It would appear industrial action would not be available for ‘cooperative workplace agreements’.

Streams of enterprise agreements

Types of enterprise agreements under the proposed legislation appear to include:

• Single-enterprise agreements – currently the predominant form of enterprise agreement

• Supported bargaining agreements – involving two or more employers where the agreement was

• subject to a ‘supported bargaining authorisation’

• Single-interest employer agreements – involving two or more employers where the agreement

• was subject to a ‘single interest employer authorisation’

• Cooperative workplace agreements – a form of multi-enterprise agreement

• Greenfields agreements (existing)

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Supported bargaining stream

The Bill, if passed, will involve changes for enterprise bargaining.

This new bargaining ‘stream’ would replace the current low-paid bargaining provisions to enable multi-employer agreements that are ‘supported bargaining agreements’. A bargaining representative or union entitled to represent the industrial interests of an employee could apply to the Commission for a ‘supported bargaining authorisation’ naming employers that will be covered by the agreement. It appears supported bargaining authorisations by the Commission would not necessarily be limited to low-paid employees, but would provide the FWC with much broader discretion in determining whether it is appropriate for the employers to bargain together having regard to factors including the prevailing pay and conditions within the relevant industry or sector. The FWC would also need to be satisfied that at least some of the employees who will be covered by the agreement are represented by an employee organisation (union). If an employer is named in a supported bargaining authorisation it cannot bargain for another type of agreement. Where a supported bargaining authorisation is in place, the FWC could, on its own initiative, be involved in facilitating bargaining. Further, other employers and their employees can be ‘added’ to a supported bargaining agreement either by agreement of the employer and their employees, or, even without an employer’s consent, where the Commission has approved a union’s application for the inclusion of a particular employer (if supported by a majority of that employer’s employees).

Single interest employer stream

Currently, two or more employers may only bargain together as ‘single interest employers’ if they are engaged in a joint venture or common enterprise, or are related bodies corporate, or have a ‘single interest employer authorisation’ requiring a ministerial declaration. The proposed legislation would expand access and application of ‘single- interest employer authorisations’ by cutting out procedural requirements (including for ministerial declaration) to obtain an authorisation; and providing a mechanism for unions to apply to add new employers to existing single-interest employer authorisations (even where the employer does not consent). The FWC would take certain criteria into account in determining whether to approve a single-interest employer authorisation (or add an employer to it) – including whether the employers have clearly identifiable common interests. Examples of factors which may be relevant in assessing this include geographical location, regulatory regime, and the nature of enterprises to which the agreement will relate (and the terms and conditions of employment in those enterprises). According to the explanatory memorandum, when the FWC is taking into account the public interest, it would be likely to favour the approval variations (to add employers to the authorisation) that inhibit a ‘race to the bottom’ on wages and conditions while discouraging the approval of variations that could adversely affect competition on the basis of quality (including service levels) and innovation. Once a single-interest employer agreement is approved, a new employer (other than a small business employer) could be added to the single-interest enterprise agreement (even where they do not consent) on application by a union, where a majority of employees want to be covered by the agreement, and other criteria (including in relation to clearly identifiable common interest and public interest) are met.

Cooperative workplace agreement stream A multi-enterprise agreement (different to a single-interest employer agreement) where no supported bargaining authorisation is in operation immediately before the agreement was made. The FWC must be satisfied at least some of the employees covered by the agreement were represented by an employee organisation (ie: a union) in relation to bargaining of the agreement (excludes greenfields agreements). A new employer and its employees can jointly apply to be covered by an existing cooperative workplace agreement subject to employee vote in favour, and FWC being satisfied it has been ‘genuinely agreed’ by the affected employees.

Persons excluded from bargaining

FWC can make an order excluding a person from being a bargaining representative for a proposed enterprise agreement where the person has a record of repeatedly not complying with the Act.

Civil penalties could apply for an employer advertising employment at a rate of pay that doesn’t comply with the applicable modern award.

The Act should ‘promote job security and gender equity’.

OTHER PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE BILL

Objects of the Act

Equal remuneration

Objects of the Act to include ‘promote job security and gender equity’, with related changes to the modern awards objectives, and minimum wages objectives.

When determining whether there are work value reasons for varying modern award minimum wages, the FWC would be able to take into consideration historical gender-based undervaluation. In relation to applications for equal remuneration orders, the proposed changes would remove the requirement for a male-based comparator and establish new Expert Panels, including a panel for the Care and Community Sector.

Prohibit pay secrecy

Sexual harassment

Anti-discrimination

Fixed term contracts

Employment contracts not to include pay secrecy terms and pay secrecy terms in contracts to have no effect. Employees would be permitted to disclose or not disclose their remuneration and ask other employees about their remuneration (although an employee is not obliged to disclose their remuneration), and these new employee rights being protected by the Act’s General Protections.

Sexual harassment in connection with work will be unlawful and subject to penalty under the Fair Work Act, with employers being variously liable for such offences, and powers for the FWC to deal with sexual harassment disputes.

Prohibited grounds for discrimination under the Act to include breastfeeding, gender identity and intersex status.

A prohibition, with penalties, on fixed term employment contracts that are for more than two terms and/or extend beyond two years, except under limited exceptions. Where the fixed term relates to government funding there is an exception where the funding term is for longer than two years where there is no reasonable prospect that it will be renewed. The Commission would have power to deal with disputes and arbitrate by agreement. Employees on fixed-term contracts are to be provided a Fixed Term Contract Information Statement.

Requests for Flexible work under the NES

Small Claims

Pay advertisements

In responding to a request for flexible working arrangements, an employer must genuinely try to reach agreement. The employer has had regard for the consequences of refusal for the employee and the employer had reasonable business grounds. The Commission would have power to deal with disputes about such requests, including arbitration.

Increased cap from $20K to $100K for claims under the Fair Work Act that can be dealt with as ‘small-claims proceedings’ in a magistrate’s court or the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. It would also enable the court to award a successful claimant any filing fees as costs from the other party.

Civil penalties could apply for an employer advertising employment at a rate of pay that doesn’t comply with the applicable modern award or fair work instrument. Advertisement of piecework must include any periodic rate of pay (ie an hourly rate) to which the pieceworker is entitled. Defence of ‘reasonable excuse’ will apply.

Disclaimer: This summary has been prepared for TTIA members. Care has been taken to ensure that this summary reflects the items in the Bill, details in the explanatory memorandum, and our understanding of the implications of the changes. No warranty of accuracy or reliability is given. This material is not a substitute for, nor is it intended to be specific legal advice. The member should contact the TTIA Hotline on (02) 9264 0011 for advice. TTIA, its employees and agents shall not be liable for any loss or damage incurred as a result of any reliance on the information contained herein. AA

Sexual harassment in connection with work will be unlawful and subject to penalty under the Fair Work Act.

Advertisement of piecework must include any periodic rate of pay.

PLATFORM SALES AND HARVEY TREE CARE’S CTE TRACCESS 230

Based in Harvey, WA, Dave Smith and his company are finding plenty of work for their newest spider.

Itry to stick around the Harvey shire if I can,” said a very cheerful Dave Smith on an early-morning phone call. “It’s probably one of the biggest shires there is in WA. Harvey Tree Care doesn’t venture more than about 60km from the depot.”

Even so, there is enough work in the region to keep Dave, his team, and his machines hard at work.

“We do total tree removal mostly,” said Dave. “We prune them, obviously, and we do a lot of shaping, but we don’t really get involved in anything smaller than a tree.”

At the moment, Harvey Tree Care has a few machines: an 18-metre spiderlift, an older trailer-mount, and the newest addition, a CTE TRACCESS 230 from Platform Sales.

CTE TRACCESS 230

The CTE TRACCESS 230 stabilises in four different working configurations, allowing you to work in confined areas. With ground penetration stabiliser sensors and automatic stabilisation as standard, the machine is ideal for all types of tight spaces and terrain.

The fully proportional remote control on the CTE TRACCESS 230 has three separate functions: operation in the basket, drive, steer and stabiliser controls; and command for the tower from the ground. When used for the drive, it can be operated with smooth easy movements for precise operation, while allowing full vision of your surroundings. When installed in the basket console, it has fully proportional controls of up to three simultaneous movements. With a double pantograph boom, it allows for plumb-line operation vertically, which makes for easy one-handed operation when lowering or raising, without the worry of impact from a lower boom. With 200kg basket capacity in all positions, telescope and jib boom and +/- 360° turret rotation allows reaching the correct working position easily and safely.

What is it that Dave likes about the TRACCESS 230?

“It’s 23 metres instead of 18,” laughs the happy West Aussie arborist. “Love that!”

“It’s got a good reach, and it’s smooth to operate,” he continued. “It’s intuitive to use, too. We’ve been using it for a few months now, and we’re not using anything else at the moment. We’re pretty happy with it.”

‘Platform Sales’ part of the Lift Industries Group

Dave has been dealing with Platform Sales’ rep Phillip White, and between the service and the machinery, Harvey Tree Care is being well looked after.

“The machine is fairly new, so we’re learning as we go, but Platform Sales are good.

Stabilises in four different working configurations.

Ideal for tight spaces.

Platform Sales kicked off in Sydney more than a decade ago after becoming Australia’s first retail sales agency for the world’s largest producer of self-propelled aerial platforms. A partnership was quickly established with world-class Italian manufacturer CTE Lift, and that resulted in the supply of the firstever aerial truck-mounted platform built, certified and commissioned in Sydney.

Since then, Platform Sales has been taken over by Lift Industries who are exclusive Australian and New Zealand agents for products such as Terex Utilities, Klubb and Lodax ground pads. While retaining the exclusive Australian dealer for CTE truckmounted and Traccess Spider Lift ranges, and the company works hard to provide 

A double pantograph boom.

Good reach and smooth to operate.

A fully proportional remote control allows operation from the basket.

customers with an exceptional customer experience overall.

“We deal with Phillip White at Platform Sales,” explained Dave, “and he’s usually available on the phone pretty quickly. He gets back to me with answers whenever I have queries.”

Final thoughts

Aside from the excellent performance of the machine in general, there’s an aspect of the CTE TRACCESS 230 that Dave has found especially suited to his work.

“With my other machines, when you use the telescopic boom and you’re reaching out, there are sensors which, depending how much weight you have in the bucket, won’t let you extend the full length of the boom. With the CTE TRACCESS 230 it can be at the maximum 12.2 metre outreach and it will carry the full 200kg without tripping out.

“It’s a really good feature.” CTE TRACCESS

•

GLOBAL MACHINERY SALES

Since changing the trading name from Rayco Equipment in 2010 to Global Machinery Sales, this company has made it a mission to secure high-end brands for the Australian tree-care industry. Check out the range on the website: globalmachinerysales.com.au

CMC Lifts

CMC Lifts was the first big brand brought into the country by Global Machinery Sales. Introduced to Australians in 2013, CMC Lifts has now grown into one of the largest and most popular spider lifts in Australia.

CMC has always striven to be at the forefront of the EWP business, with new models released yearly, and now a full R&D factory for improvements and state-of-the-art new equipment.

BG Lift

The latest brand Global Machinery Sales has brought to Australia is BG Lift spider cranes.

BG Lift has a fantastic name in Europe, and Global is sure it will win the hearts of Australian tree businesses, making work safer and easier. BG Lift has an impressive model range that offers Australian arborists a machine suited to most needs and tasks.

Rayco and Morbark

Rayco USA was acquired in 2017, and Global Machinery Sales now has the Morbark chipper range.

Morbark makes excellent large equipment, from horizontal grinders down to 12-inch chippers. Global has many orders in for chippers ranging from 12-inch to 22-inch, and they’ll be landing over the next 12 months.

Rayco stump grinders have always been a market leader, with models ranging from 13hp to 165hp. Global has been supplying Rayco grinders to Australia for well over 30 years. AA

Först Woodchippers

In 2019 Global Machinery Sales saw the need for a high-performance 6-inch to 8-inch chipper and research led to Först.

These wheeled and tracked chippers have been a huge success in the Australian market. Customers cannot believe how well they work when they see a demonstration, always leading to the question, “When can I have one?”

With fuel prices rising rapidly these machines have become a great inclusion for a lot of tree businesses. Realising, ‘I’m better off operating a machine of this size’, they’re swapping out a few of their older 18-inch chippers and trying a new Först.

The Australian Arbor Age test driving the Ruthmann Bluelift SA18HB Spider Lift distributed by Ahern Australia. Sydney, NSW Australia

WHY SHANE’S TREES CHOOSES BANDIT CHIPPERS

The largest hand-fed chipper in the Bandit range has led to greater productivity for the Shane’s Trees team.

Running a successful tree-removal business requires having the right gear for the job. Operating in multiple locations across Sydney and The Illawarra, Shane’s Trees relies on machinery that is dependable, robust and cost-efficient.

Reliability

The business purchased its first Bandit machine eight years ago, a 1590HD chipper, and over the years has expanded its fleet to nine Bandit machines, including seven chippers and two stump grinders. Shane’s Trees owner, Ben Lawson, said the reliability of the Bandit machines is a major factor in the company’s continued loyalty.

“They are just stronger and more reliable than anything on the market,” explained Ben. “One of our Bandit machines has over 6000 hours on it and still performs. Plus, we love the colour green at Shane’s Trees!”

The reliability of the Bandit machines is a major factor in the company’s continued loyalty to the brand.

“It eats big hardwood logs all day long, so it’s perfect for crane jobs and requires far less cutting.”

Hard-working

The largest chipper in Ben’s fleet is the Bandit 21XP, a 214hp hand-fed chipper that has few competitors when it comes to output and performance.

“It eats big hardwood logs all day long, so it’s perfect for crane jobs and requires far less cutting,” said Ben. “It’s right at the limit for a hand-fed machine, so it really comes into its own when we have the 5.5t excavator out with it.”

Other impressive features of the Bandit 21XP include:

• Forestry discharge

• Heavy-duty drum bearings

• Throat opening of 26"h x 24.5"w.

When Ben and his staff need servicing or parts, they have peace of mind knowing the Bandit team’s outstanding customer care is there to back them up. Ben said his team has known Jake from Bandit’s Sydney branch for over eight years.

“Jake started building our relationship months before we bought our first machine,” he remembered. “Other than the quality of the gear, Jake is the main reason we stay with Bandit.”

Covering all jobs

The tree industry is in Ben’s blood, having grown up in his parent’s arborist business.

“Mum had me out delivering lunch to the

crew and doing quotes with Dad on weekends when I was a baby,” related Ben. “Dad had me up trees when I was four years old.”

With a wide array of Bandit machines in its fleet, Shane’s Trees prides itself on being able to service customers across multiple locations, from as far south as Nowra, as far north as Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and west out into the Southern Highlands of NSW.

“We service everywhere from mumand-dads to councils and state and federal government,” said Ben. “We are different in that we are small enough to care, but big enough to get any job done safely and efficiently.

“We also have a passion for growing and developing our people. We have over 25 climbing, world-class arborists trained this decade. We have a goal of 100 by 2030.”

For info, visit www.banditchippers.com.au and www.shanestrees.com.au

Shane’s Trees: small enough to care, but big enough to get any job done safely and efficiently. The Bandit team’s outstanding customer care is there to back them up.

Shane’s Trees has a wide array of Bandit machines in its fleet.

POINT AND ‘CHUTE’ FOR AN EASY CLEAN UP

When time is money and cleaning up a site is part of the territory, the least time-consuming options are favoured for getting skilled workers on to the next job.

There’s a bright side to the clean-up process for arborists who own a chipper, and HANSA believes its commercial chippers can be utilised to meet customers’ needs for a safe process and a tidy outcome while being eco-friendly.

Efficient

The main purpose of a chipper is to reduce bulk, and make green waste break down faster. A chipper also allows transporting more waste from a site in less space – of course, an arborist can leave the chip on

HANSA commercial chippers are fast and efficient.

HANSA’s commercial chippers can be utilised to meet customers’ needs for a safe process and a tidy outcome while being eco-friendly.

A chipper enables arborists to remove more waste in less loads.

site at the customer’s request.HANSA’s disc chippers have adjustable outlets, making clean up a straight and accurate process of point-and-shoot (or chute) action!

Professional care Mulch can become a fire risk in many areas of Australia, so effective clean up and removal is a huge safety concern. In dry conditions during a drought, piled mulch

can get hot enough to ignite – something an arborist should discuss with clients prior to completing a job. Storms also cause safety concerns, leaving trees in poor shape and broken branches scattered. John Lyon, Managing Director of HANSA Australia, believes by having the right equipment arborists are helping to ensure they will receive calls to help clear damage.

“A clean-up process after a storm is

unavoidable and the safest way to do this is by hiring an arborist who can assess the situation and use a chipper for a fast and effective process. Clients are wanting normality, and a professional with a chipper is better positioned to ensure the area is clean and safe, and to be able to remove the debris.”

The full range of HANSA equipment can be found at hansaproducts.com.au.

Designed & manufactured in NZ with local parts & servicing available throughout Australia. 250 hour service intervals, double sized blades and supreme performance for happy customers.

Point-and-shoot (or chute) action!

HANSA’s disc chippers make clean up a straight and accurate process.

SIMPLY FÖRST. SIMPLY GREAT

Since launching in 2013, Först has rapidly become the market leaders for commercial woodchippers throughout Europe. The brand has become a firm favourite for arborists, rail contractors, local authorities, powerline contractors and rental/hire companies, thanks to its absolute focus on performance

and reliability, as well as being the first company in the industry to offer a three-year, no-quibble warranty on all machines.

Global Machinery Sales supplies the arboriculture, forestry, access, construction and landscaping industries with machines, including woodchippers, stump grinders, spider lifts, spider cranes and forestry

mowers across the country from its locations in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

Global Machinery Sales offers both wheeled and tracked Först chippers, but has noted Australian customers are particularly interested in the ST8D and ST6P models.

“One thing I hear a lot from contacts in the arb industry about Först chippers is ‘Wow!

A firm favourite for arborists.

Someone has put some serious thought into these machines,” said Brian Evans, Director at Global. “The access to the engine, grease points, blades and variable speed controls are all designed around the end user, making service and maintenance easier.”

Boasting 45 horsepower with a huge amount of torque and phenomenal performance, the Först ST8D makes light work of any type of timber and brash up to 8" in diameter. The ST8D is fast, aggressive

and powerful, with its Kubota diesel engine delivering exceptional fuel economy. The chipper is compact enough for the city, yet offers performance comparable to machines twice its physical size.

The Först ST6P is the fastest, most aggressive and most robust machine in its class, making it the best-selling 6" capacity petrol woodchipper in the UK and Europe. At the heart of the machine is the industryrenowned FörstGrip feed roller system and Först flywheel system, giving this machine unmatched performance in processing all types of material.

Brian’s son Sam Evans, who also works in the business as the General Manager, shared this feedback from an ST6P customer: “The customer came back saying that the Först machine did the job in half the time of the last 6" chipper – a different brand – he’d rented. He was really pleased with it.”

The reliability and ease of maintenance of Först machines makes them ideal for arborists undertaking any type of work. Add to that their robust build quality and resulting ability to take a pounding from the most reckless of customers, then why not consider adding Först machines to your fleet today?

For more information, please call Global Machinery Sales on 1300 072 926 or visit globalmachinerysales.com.au

“The reliability and ease of maintenance for Först machines makes them ideal for arborists undertaking any type of work.”

The Först ST6P is the best-selling 6" capacity petrol woodchipper in the UK and Europe.

Först XR8D TRAXION 8" Först ST8D

CUT 360 FILLS INDUSTRY GAP WITH VERMEER BC2100XL

both metro and rural areas. It really is a gamechanger,” Andrew explained.

The Vermeer BC2100XL is engineered for high-volume waste-timber processing and able to process timber up to 21 inches (53.3cm) in diameter. It has a 275hp (205kW) engine which allows operators to not only meet emission requirements, but also has enough horsepower to handle large tree and stump materials.

Service

Cut 360 works in Victoria’s Gippsland region predominately, but also travels as far as the Mornington Peninsula, working on both private and council clean-up jobs, and the productivity of the BC2100XL means getting through more jobs in one day.

“With other chippers we’d be handfeeding them,” said Andrew, “and only looking to get through one large tree a day. With the Vermeer, we’re getting through three to four large trees per day, meaning we can reliably tee up more work and get the most

Cut 360 was founded by mates Andrew and Konrad in 2020 after they met working for a large company offshore. Andrew says they saw a gap in the tree-removal market and thought they could meet a need for local customers.“I came from an engineering background, Konrad is from logistics, and our friend Jack, who works alongside us, is from the tree industry. We saw a bit of a gap for removal of large trees that are very challenging and costly for an arborist to do manually, so we combined our skills, secured the capital to invest in a few large machines to help us tackle this difficult work, and we’ve been going strong ever since,” said Andrew.

Vermeer BC2100XL

Along with large-tree removal, Cut 360 also deals with hedging, pruning, tree-topping, stump removal and clean-up, but Andrew says their main focus is removing larger trees safely, efficiently and smartly with the help of their new Vermeer BC2100XL.

“The BC2100XL is one of the larger models on the market, so it can chip most trees whole, plus it’s machine fed rather than hand fed, making it safer for our operators, and also much quicker.

“We pair the chipper with a telehandler which helps us to access larger trees in

Gippsland-based tree-removal company Cut 360 might have only been around for a few years, but it has big plans to revolutionise the tree-removal industry, starting with the new Vermeer BC2100XL chipper.

A 275hp (205kW) engine not only meets emission requirements, but has enough horsepower to handle large tree and stump materials.

CHIPPERS AND CLEAN-UP OPTIONS

out of its power and efficiency.

“The team at Vermeer Australia has been great to us from the get-go. Marcus, our local rep, always stays connected with us. He knows our industry and the area so well, it’s always worth a catch up with him. We knew when we enquired about the Vermeer we were going to get a robust and well-proven machine with the parts and service support to match,” Andrew said.

For more information on Vermeer Australia’s range of chippers and tree-care equipment, head to vermeeraustralia.com.au

The Vermeer BC2100XL is engineered for high-volume waste-timber processing and able to process timber up

The BC2100XL does more jobs in one day.

THE MORBARK® RAYCO 4000AWL ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

Impressive lifting capacity in a compact size.

The 4000AWL is the second model in Rayco’s articulated wheel loader line and is designed to meet the material handling needs of landscape contractors, tree services, rental companies, municipalities and agricultural businesses. This turf-friendly, highly manoeuvrable articulated wheel loader offers a light footprint and heavy workload.

Designed to meet the material handling needs of tree services, landscapers, rental companies, municipalities, light construction, and agricultural business, the 4000AWL can take on many big challenges in tight areas while minimising ground disturbances. In addition, the 4000AWL offers impressive lifting capacity and a compact size that easily works inside

fenced-in yards, pens, nurseries, and more.

The 4000AWL is outfitted with a standard skid steer attachment plate and can accommodate many attachments. In addition, the quick-attach system enables users to quickly and easily switch from a bucket to forks or other tools for optimum on-the-job flexibility and bottom-line performance.

The telescoping boom provides excellent dumping and lifting height, enabling loading on high-sided trucks and other applications that require extended reach. The 4000AWL has a maximum lift height (measured at the hinge pin) of 126 inches (320.7cm).

With its 48-hp (36-kW) Isuzu 4LE2T diesel engine, the 4000AWL generates a working lift capacity of 1814.4kg. The small footprint (the 4000AWL is only 56.63"/143.8

CHIPPERS AND CLEAN-UP OPTIONS

cm wide) and articulated loader design give operators the agility they need to manoeuvre in close quarters, such as small yards or narrow pathways, while the turf tires provide minimal turf disruption when making turns.

The 4000AWL has been built with operator comfort and safety in mind, including a low-profile suspension seat in the ROPS/ FOPS-certified cab. In addition, the open-cab design provides a clear view of the worksite in all directions, and easy-to-use controls make these machines simple for anyone to operate.

For information visit www.morbark.com AA

DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS AT ACTIVE TREE SERVICES

Active Tree Services is reaching beyond the rest to create a workplace that offers more than just an exciting and diverse day job.

Active recognises its people are its most valuable asset and main contributors to the company’s success. Active has introduced a compelling employment package across a wide scope of positions, from entry-level to management, that are available now.

To achieve its status as Australia’s leading vegetation-management company, Active invests in the growth of its team, their skills and experiences. The opportunities for career growth helps to attract and retain the right people for the professional and dynamic team of safety and vegetation-management experts. Active offers long-term job security through its position as an essential service provider, while also enabling professional growth and development through nationally recognised training.

As team members within Active consistently develop and grow their skills, the dynamic of this family owned and operated business means individuals passionate about this industry have a real opportunity to become a key part of the team. From executive and supervisor roles to establishing subcontracting relationships within key geographic locations, Active has positions that provide career pathways for every level of experience.

As the scope of work grows, so does the Active team. Join the team responsible for maintaining safety for our communities and experience the culture that sends its team home safe every day.

Subcontractors

Active provides subcontractors with equipment, business expertise and professional support for those looking to start

their own business or help grow an existing business. This is an incredible opportunity for subcontractors to utilise the strengths that only a company like Active can offer.

Incentives

The benefits of joining the Active team are extensive and growing by the day. With support for development, hybrid working opportunities, above-award wages, the ability to work across different states on a temporary or permanent basis, and benefits from relationships with external parties, there are many incentives and benefits that come

from being an Active team member.

Active works hard to ensure it has a great offering by providing innovative equipment, training – including Certificate 3 Arboriculture – benefits and development for its people.

Feedback is encouraged to ensure Active remains ‘a great place to work’.

Training and development

Across the business, apprenticeships and traineeships are an important part of the fabric of the company.

With 50+ apprentices and trainees currently undertaking study, the benefit is gaining

Australia’s leading vegetation management company wants you on its team.

“Full training, equipment, personal protective equipment and licenses are provided to all new entrants.”

There’s never been a batter time to join the active Tree Services team.

excellent work experience in a supported and knowledgeable environment. This has resulted in high levels of completion rates and ongoing employment within the business. For new people joining the industry, considering something completely new can be daunting. With safety systems, process, and support from industry experts, new employees feel supported and safe in this environment. Full training, equipment, personal protective equipment, and licenses are provided to all new entrants during this learning phase.

Innovation

The Active team is working through a process of initiating an internal pilot program to develop AQF5-certified team members. The process has been outworked as an expression of interest to enable all employees to apply for a position. Support will be provided to the successful applicants via time, money, mentoring and coaching to set people up for success.

So ‘Make Australia your office’ and apply to work at Active today!

Active is a great place to work, and with careers, training, support, mentoring, guidance and security, there has never been a better time to join the team.

Check out available careers at www.active.com.au or scan the QR code on this page. Roles

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Tree Radar Australia uses a ground penetrating Radar Unit to provide the only, completely non-invasive method of tree decay detection and tree root detection available in Australia.

TREE RADAR UNIT™ DECAY DETECTION.

Tree Decay is a severe problem which can put all the structure around a tree at risk. With Tree Radar Units™ decay detection, Tree Radar can scan for decay in any tree regardless of its height. The Tree Radar unit can give an accurate read out of the severity of decay in a tree without having to penetrate the Tree’s surface.

TREE RADAR UNIT™ TREE ROOT DETECTION.

Tree Radar Unit™ can detect and establish the root proliferation of a tree, this allows the arborist to inform developers of any structural or instability issues without the need for drilling or digging.

MOBILITY MEETS VERSATILITY IN A TRAILERMOUNTED BOOM LIFT

This versatile lift offers a maximum working height of 12.9m and a maximum outreach of 6.4m, with articulating boom sections that provide up-and-over capabilities and an outstanding working envelope. Outriggers enable placement on uneven surfaces, and the turntable offers 540-degree (noncontinuous) rotation, enabling this agile machine to tackle the trickiest of jobs.

The easy-to-use outrigger/boom safety locks and robust steel platform with two-man capacity provide the strength and stability for tree-trimming, harvesting and all manner of agricultural work. Additionally, the compact transport height of 2m, width of 1.6m and weight of 1460kg enables easy mobility for work on multiple jobsites.

Snorkel towable boom lifts are reliable, lightweight, compact, utilise self-leveling for

Users can simply tow and go.

The Snorkel MHP13AT trailer-mounted articulating boom lift provides all the features needed to make quick work of awkward angles and is ideal for arboreal applications.

All the features needed to work awkward angles.

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

the outriggers and are easily towed behind a utility with 2.0-tonne capacity. With an optional wheel kit fitted they can be selfpropelled for short distances.

Currently there are two operation options: the first is a petrol engine for those who prefer no batteries; and the second is the bienergy option (petrol and batteries) for those customers who wish to have a petrol-engine backup to recharge the onboard batteries.

There is an increase in the use of towable boom lifts globally as they are an inexpensive entry point into aerial equipment. Users can simply ‘tow and go’, as opposed to the traditional full-sized, self-propelled boom lifts that require delivery by a transport truck, making them impractical for completing multiple tasks at different locations throughout the day or week – jobs like tree trimming and other arboreal tasks.

For more information on Snorkel equipment and the MHP13AT, please visit ahernaustralia.com.au or call 1300 900 700.

WAIMEA T320 – 20M TRUCK MOUNTED EWP

In stock now!

Available for purchase and hire, the Waimea T320 is a versatile 20m telescopic truck-mounted EWP. It’s an agile unit with an incredible 11m horizontal outreach and compact stowed dimensions.

At only 7.9m long, 2.2m wide, and 3.0m in stowed height, this machine allows access to those hard-to-get-to applications. It also makes roadside applications look easy with its small stabiliser footprint and minimal tail swing.

Fast and versatile

Seated on a Hino 921 Automatic Cab Chassis, the Waimea T320 is powered by an engine-driven PTO, allowing the switch from stacking up kilometres to lopping down trees. With pilot-operated hydraulic controls for smooth boom functions, the Waimea T320 provides the proportional functionality required in the arbor industry, and yet still has fast boom movements when time is of the essence. Four hydraulic levers at the rear of the truck allow levelling the stabiliser legs quickly and efficiently, giving a view of both sides of the truck during operation.

The Waimea T320 Truck Mount is built to accommodate two people and tools, with a maximum rated basket capacity of 225kg. Also, the machine runs a 240V electric outlet to the basket, allowing use of power tools safely at height or charging spare batteries during operation.

An agile unit with an incredible 11m horizontal outreach.

Functions

Once level and in the basket of the Waimea T320, having only one boom allows the operator to point and shoot the basket in the right direction, and is very simple to operate with just four hydraulic functions. One lever allows slewing the full boom of the EWP 360 degrees and provides a continuous slewing ability. The boom can be rotated 360 degrees in the one direction multiple times if required, allowing access to more trees in one setup.

The second function controls elevation and lowering of the boom.

The third function allows telescoping the boom in and out, giving access to a much greater radius of a canopy, and the fourth function alters platform rotation, allowing an operator to navigate his way through a clustered canopy or to display the full face of the basket, providing a more comfortable working position.

Once level and in the basket of the Waimea T320, having only one boom allows the operator to point and shoot the basket in the right direction.

Trial a T320

If the T320 ticks your boxes, keep in mind you can give this beast a trial for just $7,000 + GST/per month from Monitor Lift Branches in NSW, Queensland, and Victoria. That’ll get you a rest from a tough month of climbing in the hot summer sun and allow movement about the tree canopy with ease, improving the efficiency and longevity for you and your arbor business.

The T320 is in stock now, and available alongside a large range of 14-36m EWPs, allowing you to find the right truck to suit your needs!

Email trucks@waimea.net.au now to learn more about the Waimea Range, or call on 02 8610 5601. AA

Give the beast a trial. Take a rest from climbing in the hot summer sun and move about the tree canopy with ease.

Four hydraulic levers at the rear of the truck allow levelling the stabiliser legs quickly and efficiently, giving a view of both sides of the truck during operation.

CHIPPER CHECKLIST

Be ready for the 2022 storm season.

Summer months are notorious for storm activity, which means we can expect an increase in storm-damage clean up from fallen trees and debris. It makes sense to have your chippers ready for the increased workload so they can handle the tough jobs in the months ahead.

According to the Bureau of Meterology (BoM), we can expect an above-averaege number of tropical cyclones in Australia between November 2022 and April 2023, thanks to our nation experiencing the third La Niña in successive years.

Vermeer Australia recommends five simple checks to be prepared for the upcoming storm season.

1. Chipper knife maintenance

Vermeer recommends checking chipper knives around every 10 service hours. Be on the lookout for any cracks or distortion of the knives, the condition of the bolts and the knife sharpness.

2. Replace hydraulic filters

The number one cause of damage to hydraulic equipment is poor filtration. Failure to remove contaminants from hydraulic fluid results in fluid-pressure blockage that can cause damage to pumps inside chippers, as well as excess contaminants damaging seals. Your work environment plays a big part in

contaminating your hydraulic filters with dirt, sawdust and water breaking down seals and allowing even more contaminants to enter.

3. Clean your air filters

An engine with a dirty air filter will produce less power and use more fuel. Don’t just knock the dirt, dust, sand or sawdust out of the air filter and put it back in. Give it a good clean out to make sure the filter does the job properly.

4. Check engine oil filters

Most Vermeer machines use full-flow oil filters, so there is no way oil can get to the engine without first passing through the filter, ensuring a supply of clean, lubricating oil. However, if the filter becomes blocked by dirt or impurities that prevent the oil from passing through, a bypass valve in the filter may allow unfiltered oil, which could be filled with damaging particles, into the engine.

5. Daily maintenance

Don’t forget the essential daily maintenance checks once storm season is underway. Your chipper’s manual will provide exact information on what to check and where to lubricate. The list will typically include a check of:

• Oils

• Fuel

• Tyre pressure

• Safety device/interlock operation

• Greasing and lubrication schedule.

Support when and where you need it

Vermeer’s proud to be part of a network boasting 29 dealerships across regional and metro locations, meaning parts, service and sales teams are ready to support you when a storm hits. Vermeer also has mobile service teams available in case you need onsite support.

To get in contact with your local Vermeer Australia team, head to vermeeraustralia.com.au/contact-us/

Maintenance is vital.

CONTRACTOR

WANTED?

Looking for reliable, qualified and insured tree contractors to assist with your landscape contract?

If quality of work is what you look for in your subcontractors, then next time you need tree work carried out as part of your landscape contract, consider using a member of the Tree Contractors Association (TCAA). By using a TCAA member you are guaranteed a quality service from a fully insured member with many years of experience in the tree industry.

The TCAA and its members provide ‘tree work’ nationally to corporations, councils, government departments and the general public. The TCAA members have agreed rates to ensure competitive costing of work quoted.

TCAA members offer comprehensive

tree maintenance and management services, at competitive rates, carried out by experienced, qualified professionals.

The introduction of industry licence as a continual improvement for contractor standards of work and training ensures that members will complete and maintain work to Safe Work Australia requirements.

The TCAA members can assist with your site requirements for tree trimming, removal, stump grinding, chipping or all onsite consultations that require AQF 5 consulting arborists.

To find your nearest member please use the www.tcaa.com.au web link.

Then look no further. The Tree Contractors Association of Australia Inc. is a network of fully insured, qualified and experienced tree contractors. Our we audit our members annually to ensure they comply with the highest standards.

Don’t risk getting complaints from your customers from shoddy tree work. Insist on the best!

Australia Inc.

HOW MONITOR LIFTS IS BACKING YOUR BUSINESS

Monitor Lifts is serious about support.

Having the right service and maintenance will help extend the life of your machines and increase your ROI by ensuring they keep working when other lifts give up. A properly maintained spider lift or EWP will mean safe operation for both employees and customers. Good maintenance will also preserve your investment and operations. But finding time for maintenance can be tough, and getting hardworking equipment to a workshop can be both time-consuming and expensive.

Monitor Lifts’ 24-Hour Support Service can provide the emergency support, spare parts supply, routine maintenance and the training you need – no matter where you are in Australia.

Fig. 1: Monitor Lifts’ own transport trucks allow the company to control the quality of delivery service.

EYE ON THE INDUSTRY

Fig. 2:

Fig. 3

Parts

The cornerstone of responsive service and support is having sufficient critical parts on hand, ready to use. That’s why Monitor Lifts has made a commitment to maintaining a $2 million parts inventory.

From the central parts storage in Tamworth, NSW (soon to be expanded into an even larger facility to further increase parts inventory), and through five other warehouses in major cities across Australia, Monitor Lifts can supply parts wherever you operate.

Expertise

Monitor Lifts has sales and service outlets in 12 major cities across Australia and New Zealand, supported by a network of regional service teams and service agents.

The company’s specialist technicians are fully qualified in hydraulics and electrical and mechanical servicing. They’ll keep your EWPs running. Their years of experience with spider lifts ensures Monitor Lifts can offer reduced downtime and increased safety.

The techs are also happy to give advice over the phone. You can talk to people who know and understand these machines and the real-world situation you’re in. Monitor Lifts can help your team with both operating and troubleshooting.

Fig. 4

Training and support

Training is provided with all machines at the time of purchase. If you are based in a remote location, both phone and virtual training are available free of charge. If delivery is a part of your purchase package, Monitor Lifts will even provide on-site training at no extra charge.

And if you ever need an update or a refresh – or when new members join your team – Monitor Lifts will be happy to bring you up to date via Zoom, website training videos, or even at Monitor Lifts branches.

Support

Monitor Lifts has invested heavily in ensuring its support fleet is among the best in Australia. Some of the available hardware includes: Service trailers: with state-of-the-art service trailers, the Monitor Lifts team can carry out crucial maintenance on-site. You don’t have to move the machine – instead, Monitor Lifts come to you!

The trailers are fully equipped with tools, parts and everything the team needs to perform a full service at your site. This

Fig. 3: Training is provided with all machines at the time of purchase.

Fig. 4: State-of-the-art service trailers mean there’s no need to move the machine. Monitor Lifts come to you.

Fig. 5: Monitor Lifts has invested in its own in-house pilots and aircraft to ensure fast, responsive service to remote locations across Australia.

Fig. 5

efficient service makes it easy to keep your spider-lift fleet running at maximum capacity and keep downtime to a minimum.

Service plane: time is money. You need to keep working to take advantage of whatever business opportunities come your way, and that’s why Monitor Lifts has invested in its own in-house pilots and aircraft. It means fast, responsive service to remote locations across Australia.

This amazing capability means the team can be there for you when you need them most – giving expert advice and support to get the problem solved quickly and get you back up and running.

Transport trucks: where possible, Monitor Lifts’ own transport trucks allow the company to control the quality of delivery service. The drivers know spider lifts and can give the advice needed at handover to make sure you’re comfortable with the machine and can get up-and-running without delay.

It’s another example of how Monitor Lifts works to ensure a good relationship with you, right from the start.

For more information on Monitor Lifts’ products, please call the friendly team today on 1800 025 024 or email sales@monitor.net.au. Whether it’s sales or hire, Monitor Lifts is sure to have an option to suit your needs. AA

From the central parts storage in Tamworth, NSW, and through five other warehouses in major cities across Australia, Monitor Lifts can supply parts wherever you operate.

PUBLIC AND PRODUCTS LIABILITY INSURANCE

How much cover is enough?

First let’s consider the liability risks for an ‘average’ business.

We all hear about court decisions to grant substantial awards to claimants seeking compensation for material losses and, more dramatically, personal injury. There is certainly an increasing number of lawyers promoting ‘no win, no pay’ services through the media, supporting the fact Australia is becoming more litigious.

So – how much cover is enough to take under Public and Products Liability insurance?

Benchmark figures

In simple terms – we don’t know.

The problem is, an accident or occurrence resulting in legal action that happens today may not get to court until many years down the track. In fact, if an injury occurs to a child, the courts allow for the action to be delayed until that child is old enough to claim as an adult. This could be many years after the event.

To date the largest individual (personal injury) award made in Australian courts is around $16 million. How do we know the value of a similar claim in five, 10, or more

years? Again, the answer is – we don’t.

That’s why, as insurance brokers, we will never normally suggest what is ‘enough’ cover. The current benchmark is $20 million, however, levels of $50 million or more are becoming common where there are additional risks such as crowd exposure, child-related activities or risk to high-value property.

For most commercial-property leases, landlords are seeking cover of at least $20 million and requesting evidence of the insurance noting their interest. Under purchase-and-supply contracts, principals are asking contractors to have ‘Broadform’ or ‘General’ liability in place, with approved insurers, for amounts of at least $20 million, and for larger projects up to $50 million.

Arborists

What about tree loppers and others in the horticultural business?

For horticulturalists, particularly tree loppers who work around powerlines, risks are substantial. Following the tragic Victoria Black Saturday bushfires of 2009, legal action involving class-action claims resulted in massive awards for negligence

against service providers amounting to almost $700 million.

These are scary amounts of money.

The NSW Blue Mountains bushfires of 2013 also resulted in legal action against electrical-service providers. In one particular case, a number of property owners –through their insurers – successfully sued for property losses. Tree loppers who contract their services can be caught up in these legal actions as they may be directly or indirectly liable.

Specialist cover

What are the solutions?

Those involved in the industry should seek the best liability cover available and, as explained earlier, the highest possible limits of cover should be sought. Look closely at your insurances, not all policies are the same.

An important aspect of the insurance review process is analysing the risks that can adversely impact you or your business. Your Austbrokers SPT broker will review the risks affecting you and recommend a solution to safeguard against them.

The specialised Public Liability Insurance that Austbrokers SPT offers is available to all those in the industry – from Line Inspectors to arborists and those specialising in powerline corridors.

Benefits of Austbrokers SPT’s Horticultural Program are:

• Public Liability cover up to $50,000,000, including powerline work

• Backed by major international insurance companies with an Australian Standard and Poor’s rating level greater than ‘A’ strength

• A dedicated broker with 20 years’ experience in this field who is committed to assisting you with your needs

• Quick turnaround of documentation, including Certificates of Currency

• An Internal Claims Team dedicated to

Risks are substantial for horticulturalists working around powerlines.

Horticulturalists and arboriculturalists should seek the best liability cover available.

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

handling your claims with Australian-based insurer claims teams

• Competitive premiums and level of cover

• Comprehensive Machinery, Truck and Tools of Trade cover provided under one insurance package.

Austbrokers SPT is passionate about the horticultural industry, and it is this passion that continues to drive it to exceed its clients’ expectations.

To discuss your insurances, contact the team at Austbrokers SPT on info@sptinsurance.com.au or call (02) 9525 9311.

This advice has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Please refer to the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before deciding whether to acquire our product. Please contact our office if you would like to receive a copy of the PDS.

Tree loppers who contract their services can be caught up in legal actions as they may be directly or indirectly liable.

Often

Premium funding works by having a funding company pay the full premium of your policy on your behalf to the insurer, while you repay the funder in monthly repayments.

This can help with your cash flow and can potentially help you to afford to take out multiple policies, if required. There is an interest rate to pay – usually a fixed rate – which is generally tax deductible for the business.

Fitzpatrick General Manger, Daniel Holmes, said there are many organisations that offer insurance-premium funding.

“It’s just a loan transaction, really,” he said. “Instead of paying the premium upfront, the funder pays the premium to the insurer, and the business pays the premium funder over either 10 or 11 months.”

This type of funding can give businesses more options. For example, a small business can use it to pay for a number of insurances, not just one. The funder may also combine multiple policies into a single loan, which can enable the business to pay repayments each month via one single payment.

It may be an appropriate option for businesses that may not have the full amount

for the total year’s insurance policy available now, but have the ability to pay it off over time.

Generally, the business needs to put down a deposit of around two months’ premiums to secure the funding. The loan, plus interest, then needs to be repaid over 10 or 11 months, and if a business falls behind with its repayments, the funder can cancel the policy.

How premium funding overcomes challenges for small businesses

One of the issues with paying by instalment is a number of insurers have difficulty getting their systems to accept these types of payments.

“Paying for a policy using instalment payments might sound simple in theory, but

in reality, it’s not that easy,” said Holmes. “Particularly because a policy can be changed.

“For example, a business might add a feature onto the policy, and need to pay an extra premium. Or it may take items off and need a refund. In cases where you’re talking about relatively small amounts of money, the cost of having the computer system do it can be very expensive. So premium funding offers an alternative to the insurer having to do it.”

Holmes added it is often a better option than approaching a bank, as no collateral is required. Banks often want security before funding a loan, such as a charge over the business-owner’s home.

“Premium funding can be available for various amounts from a few thousand dollars to many thousands,” Holmes said.

Meanwhile, he added, in the current environment of rising interest rates, businesses need to check the rates they’ll be charged on any premium-funding arrangement before taking out a loan.

“As rates go up, the cost of the funding will also increase,” explained Holmes. “So, make sure you know what you’re paying – and check the fine print.”

For more information or questions on Business insurance or your own policy, please contact Fitzpatrick & Co. Insurance Brokers on (03) 8544 1600 or email: insure@fitzpatrick.com.au or visit their website at www.fitzpatrick.com.au

Important note:

This article provides information rather than financial product or other advice. The content of this article, including any information contained in it, has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. For more information or questions on premium funding or your own policy, please contact Fitzpatrick & Co. Insurance Brokers on 03 8544 1600 or email: insure@fitzpatrick.com.au or visit the website at www.fitzpatrick.com.au

Fitzpatrick & Co has specialised in the horticulture and arboriculture industry for over 30 years, providing assistance and financial support to companies, associations and events. We are there when your industry needs you.

CYBER ATTACKS

Businesses need to be more careful than ever.

Cybercrime is increasing, and it’s a serious threat to individuals and businesses alike. According to Australia’s Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions: ‘In Australia ‘cybercrime’ describes both crimes directed at computers or other information communications technologies (ICTs), such as hacking and denial-of-service-attacks, as well as traditional crimes where computers or ICTs are an integral part of the offence, such as online fraud, money laundering and identity theft.’

Recent Medibank and Commbank data breaches attracted plenty of publicity and hopefully heightened the general public’s awareness of the problem, but it can still be difficult to assess the mass of electronic material hitting our phones, computers and tablets every day. Most of it is probably harmless enough, but it only takes one problem message to make for a very difficult, and sometimes expensive, result.

Government advice

There seems to be no limit to the malicious and seemingly benign hacking going on, but protecting financial and personal records must be a high priority. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has published a few tips to help from its point of view.

The ATO says it will never:

• Send a link in an email or text asking a customer to log in to ATO online services. Scammers use this tactic to harvest financial information

• Ask for personal identifying information, such as a tax-file number or bank-account details, on social media. To make sure you’re interacting with verified ATO

accounts, look for the blue ‘verified’ tick on Facebook and Twitter, and a high follower count on LinkedIn

• Request payments through unusual methods, such as gift cards, crypto assets or cardless cash, or

• Threaten with immediate arrest. If this happens, targets should report the incident to the ATO.

“Recent Medibank and Commbank data breaches attracted plenty of publicity.”

Be wary of workplace pics.

The ATO also says businesses and individuals should review the ATO tips at ato.gov.au

Be aware

Strong security is needed to protect individuals and businesses from intrusion and theft at all levels, and protecting electronic equipment and information storage is no different. The difficult thing for many to grasp is that not only can electronic breaches leave no trace, but the stolen material is right where it’s supposed to be. It’s just been copied to use elsewhere. Until something strange shows up by way of an unexpected invoice or travel details or whatever, the theft may go undetected, sometimes for a very long time.

The basic ways criminals get business and client details include:

• Breaking in and stealing records

• Taking photos in and around businesses

• Stealing passwords, account logins or myGov ID details

Lock up laptops.

• Obtaining access to data through legitimate means, like an employee using business systems or security controls

• Emails with malicious links or programs

• Emails requesting information which seem to be from reputable sources

• Exploiting security vulnerabilities in software.

information is to access, the more likely it is thieves will look elsewhere. Be sure to update devices and systems regularly – it’s critical to maintaining security – and get familiar with an electronic security measure called multi-factor authentication (MFA).

The

tougher

the

better While there’s no guaranteed theftproof systems available, the more difficult

Finally, make sure to check all electronic communications carefully before surrendering any information of any kind, and, as far as possible, limit access to records and files to as few people as possible. AA

Strong security is needed.

THE ARBORISTS’ CHOICE FOR GRAPPLES

Intermercato Sweden has been producing high quality grapples for more than 25 years. Intermercato Grapples Australia started importing grapples 15 years ago into the Australian market, so they are well and truly tried and tested. Intermercato’s dual pivot pin design allows the grapple to open wider and close tighter. The company offers quite a selection of grapples and rotators to suit everyone’s needs. Feeding chippers, felling trees, removing palms, they have it all covered. Intermercato also supplies grapple saws.

To find out more about Intermercato and their range of products, contact Robert today on 0436 028 643 or visit www.grapples.com.au Keep in touch on weekly updates via their Facebook and Instagram.

Quality European designed and built forestry grapples made from genuine Hardox steel.

MECHANISED ARB WITH FOREST CENTRE

As outlined in AA’s vegetation management case study in the previous issue, Mudgee-based tree services and vegetationmanagement specialist Diverse Property Services (DPS) has been harnessing the benefits of ‘mechanised arb’, pairing GMT Equipment’s GMT050 TTC grapple saw with a Doosan wheel excavator.

DPS owner Chris Jarvis told AA he has long maintained a focus on technology developments in international markets with the view to streamlining DPS’s operations. Faced with increasingly demanding workloads, he added the GMT050 TTC to his fleet and hasn’t looked back.

The GMT050 TTC has not only significantly sped up operations, allowing DPS to tackle a greater number of projects more efficiently and effectively, but has also provided a range of safety benefits, with close to a 60%

decrease in its climbing operations.

As Chris explained, a typical setup sees him behind the controls in the excavator, utilising the GMT050 TTC’s capacity to cut smaller branches or trunk sections from every direction (it has minimum/maximum cutting diameters of 8/50cm), with one or two workers on the ground.

Also notable is the GMT050 TTC’s ability to reach out and cut material that has fallen by the roadside, feeding it directly into the chipper, enabling DPS to eliminate as much chainsaw use as possible.

Versatile pruning and removal of trees

The GMT050 TTC is designed to provide flexible, tension-free grasping, sawing and controlled felling. The Total Tree Control (TTC) system allows for holding of tree parts after sawing, enabling fixed removal of the section.

Paving the way for increased versatility, GMT attachments are suited to any almost machine that can handle a normal hydraulic grapple, from mid-sized excavators to slewing telehandlers, forest machines and truck-mounted cranes.

Other benefits provided by the GMT050 TTC include:

• Prune, fell, top, cut-to-length, and load a truck or feed a chipper in one pass

• Reach-and-cut operations without touching the ground or causing damage due to falling timber

• Reduces on-ground processing and cleanup work after felling

• Provides for simple assembly without electrical systems, wiring or added hydraulics

• Minimum saw noise nuisance via the use of hydraulics.

Forest Centre provides comprehensive service support

While the GMT050 TTC has been racking up significant hours in the field, bolstering DPS’s operations. Chris also highlighted the strong level of service provided by forest-industry equipment specialist, Forest Centre.

Chris told AA Forest Centre had gone out of its way to secure the GMT050 TTC in a short period of time, streamlining its delivery.

“Rey at Forest Centre was really good, because I needed the GMT050 TTC in a pinch,” he explained. “I was in the middle of a large contract, and Rey was great in the sense that he helped me get it rush shipped from the factory in Europe.

“After that, going back and forth in the initial setup stage, between myself, my hydraulics expert and Rey getting the GMT050 TTC fitted, Forest Centre contracted an engineer to install a quickcoupler jib in a short timeframe as well.”

GMT050 TTC grapple saw enables safe and efficient operations.

Prune, fell, top, cut-to-length, and load a truck or feed a chipper in one pass.

Looking ahead, Chris told AA he is aiming to add another GMT grapple saw to his fleet within the next year.

Grapple

saw safety

“For forest machines with hydraulic saw attachments, the potentially fatal risk of ‘chain shot’ – high-speed ejection of chain fragments that can occur if a saw chain breaks – is one that should not be ignored,” explained Rey from Forest Centre.

“That same risk carries over when the work setting changes to roadside or even urban operations. Grapple saws or harvesters normally require a minimum 90-metre personnel exclusion zone when working, and we know that is simply not possible or practical for many tree-care projects.” Rey added.

Fortunately, GMT Equipment attachments are purpose-built for the tree-care sector and are one of the only grapple saws on the market today which do not require this added operational restriction. AA

The Total Tree Control (TTC) system allows for holding of tree parts after sawing.

FIRE HAZARD CONTROL

There are some excellent online resources to help prepare for various fire-emergency situations, but treecare specialists will often be queried on, or tasked with, fire-hazard reduction. There are a few jobs which should be assigned to an aborist or tree-care professional – things like removal of deadwood, palmfrond maintenance and removal in tropical and sub-tropical regions, and removal of dry and dead vegetation. Naturally, pruning of branches overhanging structures, or even possibly removal of complete trees or other vegetation endangering homes and buildings is imperative, and needs to be handled with care and expertise.

Firebreaks

Effective firebreaks are gaps in vegetation down to soil level. The idea, of course, is the fire is unable to easily leap over or creep across the cleared space in the

absence of flammable fuel.

There are few different types of firebreaks. An established road can be very effective if it happens to be in the right place. A simple strip of ploughed soil might work if the situation is not too extreme. A river can be extremely effective. But most firebreaks will involve removing vegetation, and that will usually mean the services of an arborist to ensure the job is done safely and with a professional’s regard to the species in the affected area.

As good customer service, it’s worth advising home and property owners to ensure there’s no flammable mulch in gardens or gutters, lawns, trees and shrubs near homes are watered and kept green, and mature trees need to be assessed by a professional and well maintained by the property owner. Ideally there should be no trees or shrubs within 20m of the house, and definitely no shrubs near or under windows of the home or close to branches of mature

trees. Any low or overhanging branches need to be cut back. Overgrowth of trees and shrubs can be a major hazard.

Preparation

Plenty of government agencies do their part in running ad campaigns and providing information on people preparing for a fire emergency, but the tree-care industry can do a great deal to prepare a site or property to be far less susceptible to a

Australia’s bushfire season is one of the world’s most extreme. Here’s a few thoughts on preparing for, and dealing with, fire-hazard management.

Fires are indiscriminately destructive.

The safety of people sharing the bush assets must be a first priority.

bushfire emergency in the first place.

Advising on the placement or removal of trees and vegetation with a view to fire-hazard reduction before building or earthworks commence can result in a huge reduction in a property’s vulnerability to fire hazard for many years and decades to come – especially if there’s an enormous example with a huge, drooping canopy the property owner loves because “…it looks fantastic!”

Some good advice and careful pruning may enable the tree to continue its glorious existence, giving shade and pleasure to many generations of the owner’s family and friends.

Or, after assessment, professional advice on removal of the tree may prevent heartache or even fatalities in years to come.

Responsible

Fires have their place in Mother Nature’s plan. While they’re enormously and indiscriminately destructive, they’re also an agent for clearing away dead material and paving the way for the generation of new

Impact Block XS

From its unique doubly secure interlocking anchor bollard, to the highly efficient oversized ball bearings, this is a block with a difference.

– Compact, lightweight

– Double security at the anchor bollard

– Ideal for both everyday rigging and winch operations

– Hollow axle facilitates multiple configurations

– Hauling loop simplifies hauling, transfer and storage

– Fairleads flairs help maintain efficiency even in suboptimal set up

growth on a very large scale.

But the safety of the people sharing the bush and forest assets must be a first priority. Simply scraping large sections of land clean of all vegetation is a measure effective in the shortterm, and often a necessity to help control or contain an emergency situation, but it does its fair share of damage to an ecosystem.

The advice of a tree-care professional, and regular maintenance of the trees and bush which surround us, are far more beneficial for long-term fire-hazard management and reduction. AA

Clearing gutters is a no-brainer.

TREE-MENDOUS EFFORT!

We’re big fans of the Queensland Water and Landcare website and Facebook page here at The Australian Arbor Age, and we saw a couple of fantastic posts recently.

First was a report on the Mulgrave Landcare and Catchment Group, who managed to plant a staggering 1080 trees in a single day.

OMG, right? It’s true.

A crew of volunteers jumped in with

the monumental effort to help stabilise the riverbank and provide habitat for native species.

That’s a gargantuan effort which earns a huge cheer from all of us at AA

Narrandera

The other item which caught our attention was the Narrandera Landcare Group knuckling down for two solid weeks of tree planting as part of National Tree Day.

These folks clubbed in with the Narrandera Public school and Narrandera High School to

plant, tree-guard, water and mulch hundreds of seedlings.

What a fabulous experience for the next generation of tree carers, and what a boost for the local environment and community! According to the website report, the younger generation were also taught about local habitats, biodiversity and threatened species.

The icing on the arborial cake came with planting under-storey seedlings at the Narrandera wetlands, thanks to a Landcare Australia Michael King Nursery grant. AA

There’s been some amazing planting going on in Queensland.

A huge effort from volunteers.

The Mulgrave Landcare and Catchment Group planted 1080 trees in a single day. Stabilising the riverbank.

PUTTING THE CLIENT & BUSINESS FIRST.

Customer satisfaction is our #1 goal. Hurley from Premier Tree Services is a testament to that. Hurley was in the market for a small machine that could process anything, and Bandit’s new 1425 Mini Beast horizontal grinder was the perfect fit. “I like the manoeuvrability of the wee Beast. A towable unit like this is gold,” says Hurley. “This machine allows for a broader range of customers at a more competitive price.” Premier Tree Services have owned the 1425 horizontal grinder for 12 months, and the team have loved the Bandit after-sales service. “I have known Jesse for several years now. The guys at Bandit give us great service. Everything’s top notch, I can’t fault them,” says Hurley. Customers like Hurley are the reason why we love what we do at Bandit. Our goal is simple. To ensure you have an outstanding experience with your Bandit chipper or stump grinder every day. Our team is here to support your success. Welcome to the Bandit Family.

NSW/ACT

Bandit Tree Equipment 1800 681 733 www.banditchippers.com.au

VIC/TAS

Bandit Tree Equipment (03) 9801 5066 www.banditchippers.com.au

QLD/NT Bandit Tree Equipment (07) 3711 2055 www.banditchippers.com.au

WA/NT Bandit Tree Equipment (08) 9272 6666 www.banditchippers.com.au