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AI camera network to protect Green Triangle
The Green Triangle –along with its $860 million forestry industry – will soon be home to Australia’s largest camera bushfire detection network.
This investment in technology supports quick and precise fire detection, protecting communities and plantation forests, a crucial industry for the region.
American tech company Pano AI has been announced as the successful tenderer of the full camerabased fire detection system.
The $2.346 million State Government project is being implemented in partnership with Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub (GTFIH), with $1 million of the funds targeting the new technology.
This plus substantial contributions from industry will enable this transformative technology.
The new system follows technology trials conducted at The Bluff, Penola North and Mt Burr towers along with a further industry funded camera at Centenary Tower during the 2022–23 fire season. Installation work on the cuttingedge system is expected to commence shortly and be in place in time for the 2023–24 fire season.
Other tower upgrade works including access infrastructure is already underway with the design for the new Penola North Tower now complete. The new tower is also expected to be operational in time for the forthcoming fire season.
Spanning 14 locations, Pano AI offers a comprehensive turnkey solution that integrates high definition cameras, satellite feeds, artificial intelligence, and modern cloud software to detect and pinpoint new ignitions and alert fire professionals within minutes.
The key to keeping fires small and limiting the impact on industry and the community is through rapid response and the worldleading actionable intelligence helps fire crews get to the scene faster and safer.
“We will be deploying a network of stations across South Australia and Victo-
ria,” Andrew Prolov, Head of Australia Go-To-Market, Pano AI said.
“We deploy two cameras at each station, and each camera will rotate 360 degrees every minute. “Those cameras will be taking images which we then upload to our cloud platform. And then we use artificial intelligence to look for the very first signs of fire.”
Mr Prolov said that at each time of day or night, there were different things to look for.
“During the day, smoke is normally what is seen first, so you will see smoke prior to seeing flames,” he said.
in a location, and it’s just starting out, you still want to act on it.
“So a large part of what we do is the intelligence such as if there are permanent burns going on, and there is a fire crew in attendance.”
Fourteen towers across the across the network - a combination of fire lookout towers owned by the Green Triangle and commercial community communications towers – will be used.
“Essentially unmanned, tall communications towers which are owned by a number of different entities,” Mr Prolov said.
“I don’t think the days of the man up the fire tower are over, but it’s rapidly replacing him.”
South Australian Minister for Primary Industries, Regional Development and Forestry, Clare Scriven said South Australia’s $1.4 billion forest industry has had a long and strong history of embracing cutting edge technology and the implementation of Pano’s AI fire detection system continues this proud legacy.
Nokian Forest King F2
“At night, it’s an unusual light signature.”
Nokian Forest King TRS 2
The system also satellite imagery as part of the platform.
Mr Prolov said a big part of platform is being able to differentiate between different types of smoke.
“Obviously, the biggest concern is around fire smoke.
“But it’s also important for our system to know and be able to differentiate from non-fire smoke.
“So things like track tractors on dusty road, or anything like that. And that’s where we invest our time and effort to make the algorithm understand and be able to recognize the difference,” he said.
“Because we’re able to detect it within the first few minutes of a fire starting, it’s likely to still be very small.
“The key thing is knowing where that fire is located. So if you’re not expecting a fire
guish threats before they threaten lives, property and our industry,” he said.
couldn’t be more critical.
“Unfortunately, fire doesn’t recognise boundaries so this collaborative State Government/industry initiative in utilising this ground-breaking technology helps us to ensure the best fire management tools are at our disposal. This is a system that isn’t just for the benefit of the Green Triangle forest region but is a win-win for all other landscape users, primary producers and local communities.”
The transition to the AI powered bushfire detection and monitoring system, will result in an Australian first fully integrated active bushfire detection platform utilising satellite technology, ultra-HD 360-degree panoramic cameras and AI aimed at improving early detection of fires.
Cameron MacDonald, Chair of the GTFIH said that it was a priority to utilise leading technology as a key protection measure.
“This tool from Pano AI provides us with the best opportunity to detect ignitions early so we can extin-
Anthony Walsh, Manager, Green Triangle Fire Alliance said this new technology would protect one of Australia’s most important forestry regions, and with La Nina over, the timing
“We look forward to working closely with Pano AI to have the system in place and operating before the coming fire season,” he said.
The Pano cameras are set to be deployed ahead of the 2023/24 fire season.
MASTERS OF THE FOREST
● Andrew Prolov, Head of Australia Go-To-Market, Pano AI.
● A fire detection tower at Castro Peak near Malibu in California.
SEPTEMBER 2023
Issue 6 – Volume 34
Established 1991 News 3 - 8 Forestry Now 11-33 Harvesters 34 Excavators 34-38 Technology 39 Mill profile 40
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A Komatsu 875 Forwarder operated by Mechanised Logging at work in the Green Triangle.
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The accelerated destruction of the native timber industry in my home state of Victoria is a disgrace.
This industry has been a vital part of Victoria’s regional economy for more than 170 years. It is the lifeblood of many regional towns and provides employment for around 4,500 people and their families.
Yet instead of giving the workers in this vital industry until at least 2030 to transition to new jobs, Labor Premier Daniel Andrews has given the industry just six months until its closure on January 1, 2024.
Labor’s plan will destroy country towns by taking an axe to the jobs of regional communities. Some 560 workers will lose jobs in timber harvesting, haulage, and at mills. More than 150 jobs have already been lost at the Australian Paper mill in Maryville. The Corryong sawmill is closing after being in operation for 58 years. As the owner Graham Walker told the ABC this week, ‘Sadly, this situation should never have occurred. The forests are sustainable and there’s plenty of future there.’ Around 900 Victorians have lost or face
MY VIEW
losing jobs in the timber industry jobs by the end of the year.
All but 40 of state government-owned logging company VicForests’ 163 staff work in 14 regional offices from Hamilton to Orbost to Ovens and Bendoc on the border with New South Wales. These are skilled workers who have trained as foresters and ecologists and collectively have many decades of experience.
It’s hard to believe the Labor Party, which touts itself as the party of the workers, can be so heartless and indifferent to the hardship it is causing so many hardworking Victorians. Children are in tears because their par-
ents are facing unemployment next year. Parents are stressed because they don’t know how they will put food on the table. Families are in crisis because they don’t know how they will pay their mortgages. In some small communities, even the schools and footy clubs will be forced to close.
Premier Daniel Andrews has said that he isn’t here to be popular and he certainly isn’t in regional Victoria, but he doesn’t care. All Labor cares about is chasing Green votes in inner-city electorates. The terrible irony of this vote-chasing exercise is that it will do terrible harm to the very environment that inner-city voters cherish. What is deliberately ignored by Labor and the Greens is the incredible work that the industry and the regulator do to ensure the long-term health and productivity of our beautiful native forests. Labor, the Greens, and misguided eco-warriors champion wilderness. But ‘wilderness’ in forests is a recipe for disastrous bushfires. Far from damaging ecosystems, sustainable logging prevents devastating super fires. This is no accident. The industry
We simply need more trees in the ground
The responses to this year’s FORESTRY
NOW delivered a number of common themes.
They included Australia’s reliance on timber resources to fuel its growing population and expanding industries, the industry’s role in the climate change debate, and the Victorian Government’s decision in particular which will further exacerbate existing supply issues.
Australia’s need for dependable timber supplies is evident, given its reliance on this resource across various sectors.
We simply need more trees in the ground.
In order to maximize existing timber supply, Australia needs to adopt efficient resource management practices.
This includes implementing comprehensive monitoring systems, using advanced technology for better forest inventory, and embracing sustainable logging methods that minimize waste and encourage reutilization.
To this end the Federal Government has stepped in with $73.76 million in federal grants to establish new forestry plantations.
The Support Plantation Establishment Program will provide grant funding over four years to help establish new softwood and hardwood plantation forests, with the aim of establishing up to 36,000 hectares of new plantation across Australia.
And the Federal Government also removed the ‘water rule’ from the Australian Carbon Credit Unit scheme, opening opportunities for carbon farming and investment in new timber.
That, hopefully, will go part of the way to stem the serious loss of local timber supplies required for local timber/building products and wood fibre used daily by all Australians.
But requiring immediate attention is the loss of ‘added value’ opportunities, investment, jobs which have evaporated as a result of poor government decision making across the industry.
Investing in research and development is crucial for finding innovative solutions to these challenges.
has a vested interest in protecting the sustainability of native forests. That is why it logs selectively and regenerates native species, creating healthy, resilient forests which provide a unique home for flora and fauna.
Before the arrival of settlers, Indigenous Australians reduced the risk of intense fires by fire-stick farming. Traditional burning reduced fuel loads reduced the risk of intense fires and at the same time, it encouraged green shoots that lured animals the Aboriginal people hunted. When the first British settlers explored Australia, they described these practices.
The native timber industry achieves the same result by maintaining firebreaks and access roads, reducing fuel loads, and conducting prescribed burning. Unfortunately, the Andrews government is not interested in these benefits or in the jobs of regional Victorians because there are not enough votes of interest to Labor. Until Labor learns to put the interests of regional workers and our beautiful forests ahead of its narrow partisan concerns, the great state of Victoria will suffer.
Collaborative efforts between government agencies, research institutions, and industry players can drive advancements in sustainable forestry practices.
Again, the Federal Government has stepped in by partnering with the University of Tasmania to expand the work of the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation. This initiative will be funding research that supports our domestic timber supply, develops new technologies for the timber industry, and identify new ways to manage our forests as we grapple with the challenges of climate change.
FORESTRY NOW certainly does not have all the answers, but its contributors are all asking the right questions.
Senator Ralph Babet
UAP Senator for Victoria
Millions of seedlings planted in NSW forests
Forestry Corporation has almost completed a ground-breaking replanting program that has seen more than 11 million seedlings planted in the state’s pine forests this winter.
Almost three years on from the Black Summer bushfires and the recovery effort in softwood plantations continues.
Forestry Corporation’s accelerated planting programs over the past three years have seen extensive replanting in state forests near Tumut, Bombala, Bathurst, Walcha and Grafton.
In the Grafton Management Area since the 2019/20 bushfires, Silviculture Manager Ivan Gorman said more than four million pine seedlings have been replanted in fire-affected pine forests.
“Approximately 25 people have been involved in planting about a million seedlings across almost 900 hectares of land here at Grafton over a six-week period this
winter,” Mr Gorman said.
“We have replanted approximately 4000 hectares of the area that was impacted by the bushfires in 2020 and a total of four-million trees have been replanted in Grafton over the past four planting seasons.
“We are getting excellent results from recent plantings. It has been a bumper couple of years in terms of tree survival and seedling growth in wetter than average conditions,” he said. Each seedling is planted by hand with experienced
planters planting between 1,500 to 3,500 seedlings a day.
“From the pine trees that have been planted this season it will take around 15 years before we can extract fibre and 28 years growth to obtain structural timber,”
Mr Gorman said.
“That really is the challenging part about forestry and other tree crops, while infrastructure damaged by bushfire can be rebuilt, for tree growers it takes a long time to recover.
“With that said a worldclass salvage operation happened in the softwood plantations following those fires and now it’s been a case of setting the forests up for future harvests.
“As this season shows we are tracking well ahead of schedule in replanting those bushfire-affected plantations,” he said.
Forestry Corporation has around 230,000 hectares of pine plantations in NSW and on average produces enough timber to construct a quarter of the homes built in Australia each year.
Forestry Corporation’s hardwood division has also replanted 1.2 million seedlings over the past financial year across 1087-hectares of plantation forest.
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• Seedlings being prepared for planting in NSW by the Forestry Corporation.
Forestry conference to explore solutions forestry offers
Titled, Embracing Our Natural Capital: The Science, Technology and Art of Managing Forests
For All Values, the 2023 ANZIF conference, will provide an exceptional learning and development opportunity.
The Forestry Australia and New Zealand Institute of Forestry joint event is an opportunity for forest scientists, managers and growers to come together to enhance our knowledge and explore the future of our forests and sector.
This year’s event will be held on the Gold Coast from Sunday 15 to Wednesday 18 October, with more than 300 people from both Australia and New Zealand already registered.
Forestry Australia CEO Jacquie Martin said the theme of the conference is active and adaptive management of natural capital using evidence-based and emerging innovation, technology, skills and knowledge to support our forests and secure our future.
“In addition, the conference will explore the col-
laboration and partnership opportunities with Māori, Traditional Owner, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the establishment and management of forests on farms,” Ms Martin said.
The program features over 130 speakers including Key-
note Speaker Rayne van den Berg, Forico’s Chief Financial Officer who will present the Max Jacobs Oration on Creating Value from Forestry’s Natural Capital.
Other speakers include Sheam Satkuru, the Executive Director of the International Tropical Timber Organization presenting Sustainable tropical forestry—nature-based solutions to global challenges as well as former Federal Government front bencher and Australian Forest Products
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Association chairman, Joel Fitzgibbon who will be sharing My journey to forestry and the art of advocacy.
Further to this, a plenary panel that will discuss The future of forestry, carbon and natural capital.
Panellists include Warren Parker, Pāmu (Landcorp Farming Ltd); Dr Libby Pinkard, CSIRO; Tim Woods, Industry Edge and David Brand from New Forests.
“We can’t wait to bring together the best minds from diverse corners of the forest-
ry sector for this exceptional learning and development opportunity,” Ms Martin said.
“The conference will ex plore the many solutions that forestry offers to a range of contemporary problems and map out the future of forestry, so that it can con tinue to benefit Australia and New Zealand for genera tions to come,” Ms Martin said.
The Forestry Australia and New Zealand Institute of Foresters 2023 Conference will be held from Sunday 15 – Wednesday 18 October at Twin Towns Conference Centre, Tweed Heads, NSW. Registrations are now open. Registration rates and further information can be found on the Conference website at www.forestry conference.com.au
● Download the conference program
Farm forestry grants for Gippsland
VicForests has awarded about $850,000 in grants through its Gippsland Farm Forestry Program to 16 landholders across Gippsland to assist in planning, establishing and managing a total of 274.3 hectares of new farm forests.
The Gippsland-based program seeks to support the integration of timber trees within the context of a whole farm plan, ensuring these trees play a vital role in improving the broad range of economic, environmental, social, and cultural values within and around the farming landscape.
The grants program, which began in 2021 and is focused on increasing the supply of plantation timber, has now awarded 26 grants to fund 361 hectares of new farm forests.
Applications were received from a range of farms within Bass Coast, Baw Baw, South Gippsland, Wellington and East Gippsland local government areas,
The timber from the trees established under the grants remain entirely the property of the landholders. Applicants are encouraged to consider growing timber trees for income diversification and as part of a whole farm plan, optimising the benefits of the timber trees for carbon sequestration, shelter, shade, biodiversity and general farm amenity.
The grants are funded by the Victorian Government, which is incentivising tree planting at the farm scale through to much larger commercial plantations.
Further grant opportunities are expected to become available later this year.
● Keynote Speaker Rayne van den Berg.
● Executive Director of the International Tropical Timber Organization Sheam Satkuru.
● Australian Forest Products Association chairman Joel Fitzgibbon.
here.
Govt increases top-up payments to timber workers
The Victorian Government is scaling up support for timber workers, sawmill operators and their communities, as Victoria transitions away from native timber logging.
Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney announced the expansion of the Victorian Forestry Worker Support Program – increasing worker top-up payments from up to $120,000 to $150,000 and allocating extra payments to workers over 45 years old.
“After listening to the timber industry, we have expanded our support program - ensuring worker needs are met,” Ms Tierney said.
The Victorian Forest Products Association has welcomed transition package in principle, but is disappointed that it benefits some and punishes others.
VFPA CEO Deb Kerr said the she was disappointed that the mill exit package doubly punished those businesses that had acted in good faith.
“As details about the exit package come to light, it’s evident that our mills are being punished twice,” Ms Kerr said.
“They have invested tens of millions of dollars in new manufacturing facilities to see them through
to and beyond the originally announced 2030 deadline – a deadline that the government has reiterated numerous times since the original 2019 announcement.”
The Australian Forest Contractors Association said the revised transition package goes some way to increasing certainty for the people most affected.
“AFCA has been integral in getting the updated compensation for industry and workers, and we will continue to work to ensure certainty for contracting business into the future,” AFCA general manager Tim Lester said.
The wider community forestry sector will be eligible for the expanded Worker Support Payments, and redundant equipment compensation, plus payments for under-
2023
Gala Dinner
supplied timber, and a one-off hardship payment.
The first round of the Forestry Transition Fund is now open to create more local jobs in impacted timber communities. The fund will provide grants of up to $1 million to expand, diversify or start new businesses while also allocating wage subsidies to incentivise people to employ transitioning timber workers.
The Sawmill Voluntary Transition Package is also now open to support mill owners to stay in the industry or switch to new sectors. These packages will ensure workers entitlements are met and will include plant and equipment compensation.
An initial Harvest and Haulage Support Package will be available for forest contractors in September, which will include contract and equipment compensation and worker redundancy payments.
BRIEFS
New AFPA Chair
DIANA Gibbs has stepped down as Chair of the Australian Forest Products Association and will remain as a Director.
She has been replaced by Joel Fitzgibbon who has resigned as interim CEO.
Natasa Sikman has accepted the position of Acting CEO, as the Board carries out a robust and independent recruitment process for a new CEO.
New
PFT CEO
DR Elizabeth Pietryzkowski has been appointed the new CEO of Private Forests Tasmania for a threeyear term following the retirement of Penny Wells after five years in the role.
Dr Pietrzykowski also has 20 years’ experience as a commercial and business manager in tertiary (research and academic), forestry, agriculture, agroforestry, landscape restoration mining, oil and gas sectors and has a Ph.D in Forest Health Science from the University of Tasmania.
Online learning
AS part of its commitment to the next generation of forestry profes-
Harvest and haulage sub-contractors, chip truck drivers and other businesses heavily dependent on the native timber industry, will also be eligible for the next round of the Timber Innovation Grants – expected to reopen in late September.
Negotiations for AFCA have been led by the former General Manager Carlie Porteous.
“Forest contracting businesses working in Victoria’s native hardwood forests have spent many years investing in the industry, and their knowledge, skills and equipment were relied upon by the state in times of bushfire crisis,” Ms Porteous said.
“The compensation package now on offer provides these business and workers with some additional security as they transition to future opportunities. Negotiations are ongoing for genuine business compensation or future work packages.”
sionals, Forestry Australia has developed the Forest Fundamentals Online Learning Program, providing an introduction to foundational forestry-specific subjects.
This new program is available on Forestry Australia’s website and is free and exclusive to members.
The program provides direct access to forestry expertise. Presenters include Associate Professor Kevin Tolhurst, Dr Michelle Balasso, Professor Cristopher Brack, Dr Brian Turner, Associate Professor Leon Bren, and Megan Graham.
Plant biosecurity funding
THE Federal Government has provided $5 million in funding for a new Australian Research Council (ARC) Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity.
The funding is part of $64M in funding being awarded to eight ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centres and five new ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs.
This is a key initiative to mentor and train Australia’s next generation of research professionals, and to support partnerships between universities and industry that will generate real-world outcomes that are vital to Australia’s economic growth.
MC
● VFPA CEO Deb Kerr.
● AFCA general manager Tim Lester. ● Former AFCA general manager Carlie Porteous.
Mulchers built tough for Australian conditions
Fecon forestry attachments are built tough and reliable to mulch, cut and grind through even the hardest Australian timbers.
Fecon Mulching attachments make it easy to refine Australian timbers that many European and even some Australian mulching units struggle to perform.
Fecon’s Bull Hog range of forestry attachments is the robust and versatile solution for handling challenging Australian timbers and meeting the needs of various forestry applications.
Fecon is a USA-manufactured brand and is renowned for its Skid Steer and excavator mulching heads. They have been recognised for building the toughest attachments the industry has to offer and is the number one seller of forestry equipment in the USA.
Having been in the forestry industry for more than 30 years Fecon’s attachments have been tried, tested and engineered with unmatched power and durability, even the hardest Australian timbers don’t stand a chance, against the strength and
consistency of the Fecon forestry range.
Fecon Australia’s most renowned attachment is the ‘Bull hog’ mulching head, with models available to suit skid steers, track loaders and mini and large excavators.
The bull hog mulching heads have a wide hydraulic range of 53 up to 191 LPM, making it easy for you to find one that will suit your machines needs. These mulchers offer versatility with the option to choose between two high performance rotors, the FGT or DCR.
The FGT rotor is Fecon’s heavy-duty choice as it is the best option when ground engagement of 2-5cm is likely to occur, the smooth drum causes less horsepower draw when mixing wood material with the top layer of dirt.
The spiral design of the FGT means there is less tools engaged with the wood at a time, creating less stall. The DCR rotor is used when you want a finer end product, it provides a smaller bite with the depth control ring.
This creates faster cutting with less horsepower, helping you get the job done quicker, with less cleanup than other forestry attachments. However, the DCR is not recommended for jobs where ground engagement is likely to occur as rocks and sand will cause faster wear.
All Fecon bull hog mulchers include a variable two speed motor, that automatically adjusts to maximise rotor speed and toque with changing material loads.
This means more torque on heavier materials where other mulchers may stall
and higher a RPM on lighter materials helping to mulch faster getting the job done quicker.
In addition to the Bull hog mulcher range Fecon has a spectrum of forestry equipment including forestry tractors, stump grinders, tree shears and more. Fecon’s total collection starts at 50 up to 600 horsepower, making it easy to find the right piece of forestry gear to suit your needs.
Fecon Australia also offers a nationwide parts, service and support network for all their machines and attachments.
For more information about Fecon Australia’s range of forestry machines and attachments, visit https://fecon.net.au/machines/forestry-equipment/ or call the national information line on 1300 332 661.
● Fecon’s ‘Bull hog’ mulching head.
The past three years has been a period of upheaval within the timber industry nationally with bushfires, COVID lockdowns, China, the decision to halt the native timber industry in at least two States and legal challenges to the timber industry as a whole. On top of that we now have economic as well as supply chain challenges. We believe the time is right to take a snapshot of where we are and where we may be heading. FORESTRY NOW is a State of the Industry Review which includes observations from the industry’s key players on the industry as they see it.
Forestry is smart, switched on and ready for new technology
Australia’s forestry industries support our way of life in so many ways. They create important jobs in regional communities, and supply important needs from building materials to paper.
And our increasing use of plantation timber is meeting wood product needs, as well as assisting capture carbon from the atmosphere.
When I’ve visited timber mills anywhere in the country, it’s clear our forestry industry is smart, switched on and ready to embrace new technology and interesting ideas. I’ve been particularly impressed at some of the ideas I’ve seen firsthand to use off-cuts, save power and get better value out of every tree.
Technological advances are opening up more opportunities to use timber in exciting ways, such as wood plastics, engineered wood products, biofuels and even pharmaceuticals. With all this in mind, it’s important that we make sure our industry is thriving to meet this future head on.
The Albanese Government is committed to backing Australia’s sustainable forestry industry.
That’s why we’re investing over $300 million in programs to support the expansion of plantations and to help industry make the most out of the timber resources we have.
As an example, we recently committed $73.76 million in federal grants to establish new forestry plantations. The Support Plantation Establishment Program will provide grant funding over four years to help establish new softwood and hardwood plantation forests, with the aim of establishing up to 36,000 hectares of new plantation across Australia.
We’ve also removed the ‘water rule’ from the Australian Carbon Credit Unit scheme, opening opportunities for carbon farming and investment in new timber plantations.
In May we announced a new tripartite Strategic Forest and Renewable Materials Partnership, with representation from forestry business, union and research leaders. I’m very grateful for the advice the partnership provides on the future strategic direction of the sector, government policy and programs, and to promote co-operation between different sectors of the industry.
And we’ve also partnered with the University of Tasmania through Australian Forest and Wood Innovations to expand the work of the National Institute for Forest Products
Labor Senator for Queensland Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister for Emergency Management
Innovation. Through this new initiative we will be funding research that supports our domestic timber supply, develops new technologies for the timber industry, and identifies new ways to manage our forests as we grapple with the challenges of climate change.
An expanding industry will need more workers to feed it, so we’ve created the Jobs and Skills Council to understand the workforce and training needs for the forestry industry. We’ve also committed $10 million to support forestry workers to get the training they need. And we’ve allocated 13,200 fee-free TAFE and vocational education and training places for agriculture, fisheries and forestry courses across Australia.
I do acknowledge that forestry is not without its challenges. It’s been an interesting few years with bushfires, COVID lockdowns, and trade sanctions burdening the industry. And it is always important to maintain the community’s support for the industry.
But there are opportunities for the sector based on domestic and international demand for our highquality wood products, as well as the opportunity provided through carbon farming and net zero goals.
To capture these opportunities and deal with the challenges, the Albanese Government will be updating the 1992 National Forest Policy Statement, in partnership with the States, territories, industry and other stakeholders. The world has changed since 1992 and so has forestry and it’s important our national policy remains contemporary.
Our government looks forward to working with all in the industry to find new opportunities and continue the pivotal role you play in Australians’ way of life.
Senator Murray Watt
● Senator Murray Watt with Vince Hurley, Managing Director of Australian Sustainable Hardwoods, at ASH’s plant at Heyfield in Victoria.
Opportunities, challenges for Australia’s forestry
So far 2023 has presented a range of both opportunities and challenges for Australia’s forestry and forest products sector.
Sadly, the biggest development has been the Victorian Government’s decision to bring forward its ban on native timber harvesting to the end of this year.
The Andrews Government made the announcement on the same day it delivered its budget. An obvious attempt to bury it.
The announcement blindsided an industry planning towards the previous 2030 phase out deadline, thereby demonstrating the state government’s contempt for the thousands of people employed in the native timber sector in Victoria; the contractors, sawmillers and communities that rely on the industry.
Of course, the Government’s decision will further exacerbate existing supply issues.
Australia imports around $5 billion worth of timber and wood products each year. We can now expect our nation will become even more import dependent.
Much of this imported product will likely come from countries that do not have the world’s-best practices and very high environ-
Joel Fitzgibbon
Australian Forests Products Chairman
mental standards we have in Australia.
And it’s almost comical that Victoria will now import more logs from Tasmania. It would be funny if it were not so serious and irrational!
The Australian Forest Products Association is doing all it can at the national level to ensure the Albanese Government continues to support our sustainable native forestry industry in Australia.
In doing so we are emphasising the role it will play in fighting climate change, increasing biodiversity, reducing fire risk, and building sovereign capability.
The downswing in the economy and a sluggish
building sector is another supply-side challenge. The demand surge driven by the COVID 19 inspired HomeBuilder initiative is well and truly behind us.
On a more positive note, the first part of 2023 saw the rollout of more than $108 million in wood processing innovation grants across 34 recipients. The grants program was a result of AFPA’s advocacy in the lead up to the 2022 federal election.
Tion and other stakeholder representatives to advise and guide the Federal Government on forestry sector policy. There is a lot happening in our space.
Finally, the AFPA CEO recruitment process is gathering pace and my time as interim CEO has come to an end. I can say there are great days ahead for our sector. I thank the many industry leaders and participants for their engagement
and guidance.
Our sector faces both challenges and opportunities. Amongst the challenges is the task of making Australians more conscious our sector provides the essential products they use or rely upon every day, and the role we will play is tackling climate change.
I will always remain a passionate advocate for the forestry and forest products sector.
he Victorian Government’s decision will further exacerbate existing supply issues
The policy objective was to lift productivity in Australia’s timber and wood fibre resource and it’s terrific to see the program come to fruition.
Further, the $80 million plantation grants program AFPA lobbied for pre-election has now opened. This we hope, will incentivise new plantings. The $100 million National Institute for Forest Products Innovation (NIFPI) is taking shape, renamed AFWI – Australian Forest and Wood Innovations.
I recently attended the latest meeting of the Strategic Partnership, the new body comprised of industry, un-
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State of the Industry Australian plantation statistics update
ABARES has surveyed Australian public and private plantation growers and managers to collect data on commercial timber plantations since 1993.
Statistics collected through these surveys are published each year in this report, supporting policy development and forest industry planning and decision-making by presenting information on total plantation area, new plantings and ownership.
These annual publications complement two other products published by ABARES—a five-yearly comprehensive spatial stocktake of Australia’s commercial plantation estate, and a five-yearly comprehensive log supply forecast.
The data presented here are subsequently reported in other national publications, including the biannual ABARES Australian forest and wood products statistics, the five-yearly Australia’s State of the Forests Report and the annual Australian Bureau of Statistics Year Book Australia.
In this report, plantation areas are presented by state and National Plantation Inventory (NPI) region (map in infographic) for softwood and hardwood plantation types, species and jurisdiction, based on data collected from private growers and grower representatives, and state and territory agencies.
The survey that underpins this report collects information on the total plantation estate and newly established plantations on land not previously used for plantations. Plantations are added if they have not been previously recorded, revised if earlier data were in error and removed if the land has been converted to another use such as agriculture.
A substantial area of plantations is harvested each year and some areas are not replanted.
Replanting might not take place for some time after harvesting; unless advised of a change in land use,
the NPI records such fallow land as plantation. Although all care is taken to reconcile data, discrepancies may occur in area reported from year to year.
Grower information submitted to the NPI is confidential. For reporting purposes, data from individual growers and managers are aggregated within NPI regions or states and territories and are not provided individually to other parties without the consent of the data owner.
The data presented in this report do not capture all small-scale and farm forestry plantings but do include farm forestry plantings that are reported in Australian plantation sta-
tistics 2011 (Gavran & Parsons 2011).
In this report, 2020‒21 data are compared with data from the 2004-05, 2009-10, 2014-15 and 201920 5 yearly spatial plantation reports (5 and 1 year intervals). The totals in some tables may not tally exactly due to rounding. The term ‘ownership’ refers to tree ownership, unless otherwise stated. Notably, the methodology applied in this annual update has been revised from previous annual tabular reports, such that plantations with unknown ownership were assessed using remote sensing data. Previously these plantation areas were only assessed every 5 years.
Australia’s plantation estate was estimated to be 1.74 million hectares in 2020-21. The total estate has been declining in area since 2012-13, driven by structural changes in the hardwood sector. While the hardwood estate has declined from 1 million hectares in 2012-13 to 0.75 million hectares in 202021, the softwood estate has remained stable at approximately 1 million hectares since 1998-99.
Structural change in the hardwood sector has come about through the introduction and cessation of Managed Investment Scheme (MIS) incentives for forestry in the early 2000s. Under the MIS, companies
prioritised investment and expansion in short rotation hardwood pulplogs. Around 2009, the majority of forestry MIS companies collapsed, related to the global financial crisis. In turn, the least productive short rotation hardwood plantations previously owned by these companies were progressively converted to other land uses, driving a contraction in the size of the hardwood estate. In 2020-21, there remains approximately 80,000 hectares of former MIS plantations in the hardwood estate that are now owned by farm foresters and other private landholders. It is expected that the trend to convert ex-MIS plantations to other
● State plantations.
● Total plntation by area.
land uses will continue and a significant proportion of the 80,000 hectares is likely to be removed from the plantation estate.
Of the current estate, softwood plantations are concentrated in New South Wales and Victoria which together account for over 50% of national softwood plantations. Hardwood plantations are concentrated in Tasmania and Western Australia, again accounting for over 50% of the hardwood estate in 2020-21.
In the financial year to 2020-21, new plantation establishment was not sufficient to offset plantation conversions to other land uses. In 2020-21, around 1500 hectares of new plantations were established, consistent with low levels of annual plantation establishment since 2013-14.
Of the small area established, Western Australia accounted for the majority of softwood plantation establishment over the past two years and the major-
● New plantation establishment.
ity of hardwood plantations were established in Victoria.
At a jurisdiction level, all jurisdictions except Queensland experienced a net reduction in plantation area, while the Queensland estate was static. The largest decline was observed in New South Wales.
Most of the plantation estate is privately owned, with
85% of the hardwood estate and 66% of the softwood estate owned by private entities such as institutional investors. Notably, New South Wales and Western Australia have higher than average public ownership structures. In New South Wales, 76% of plantations are under public ownership as are 92% of the softwood plantations in Western Australia.
The current ownership structure of the national estate has been relatively stable following an adjustment period in 2013-14, at the end of the MIS period. As they collapsed, MIS companies transferred ownership of plantations to institutional investors and farm foresters, where farmers took over ownership of MIS plantations
established on their land.
Separately, institutional investors have also entered into long term agreements to manage public softwood plantation estates in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania.
Australia’s plantation estate continues to produce on average around 85% of the total logs harvested in Australia (AFWPS 2022).
This will increase from 2025 onwards due to the cessation of native forest harvesting in publicly owned forests in Western Australia and the phasing out of native forest harvesting in Victoria’s publicly owned forests. In 2020-21 the softwood plantation estate produced over 99% of all softwood logs, while hardwood plantations produced 68% of all hardwood logs. Most of the hardwood pulplogs (79%) are harvested from hardwood plantations while most hardwood sawlogs (71%) are harvested from native forests.
The Wood Project in Hastings, Victoria was started by Sarah and Nath Worth with a mission to make the most of valuable timber throughout the region. The family-owned and operated business has grown from a small firewood business to a full-service salvage sawmill making furniture and other finished timber products.
Certification’s value heightened by surge in demand for products
In recent times the ability to advocate the role and impact of forest certification has generated significant interest.
This is particularly relevant in Australia in 2023 as certification should enable certificate holders to communicate with confidence third-party verified forest management practices that are demonstrably sustainable, through transparent supply chains.
Third-party certification has gained real attention for the first time since its inception over twenty years ago with surging global demand for sustainable forestbased products as ESG, net zero and carbon reporting pressures increase. This is also coupled with pressures from activist environmental groups opposed to native forestry and the end of state forestry operations in Victoria.
Forest products from the world’s most forested country – Russia – are also now considered controversial as “conflict timber” by both
We shouldn’t forget to add to the mix the expected fourfold increase in demand for timber products by 2050 (according to the World Bank). There’s also the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) adopting new legislation to curb the impact caused by the consumption of products associated with deforestation.
est degradation. It was introduced in the 1990s as a voluntary measure to address these issues and contribute to the global trade of legally and sustainably harvested timber, ensuring that only timber and forest products from sustainably managed forests were available in the market.
estation, that degraded forests are improved and that trees are regrown.
FSC and PEFC globally. Not surprisingly perhaps, conflict timber linked to Russia’s conflict with Ukraine is still making its way into international timber markets.
According to ICIJ’s Deforestation Inc., over 100,000 tonnes of timber have reportedly been smuggled into various EU countries, including Germany and France. This forms a significant part of one of Russia’s largest illegal timber controversies.
In light of these challenges, there arises a pressing need to talk productively about these issues and mitigate scepticism with a collective response through well-founded research and government support. Throughout the industry, there are a myriad of questions: Where will the timber come from? How do we get enough trees in the ground? Who is going to pay for all of this? What happens to domestic producers and the livelihoods of multigeneration regional forestry communities?
Forest certification was originally established as a response to growing concerns about deforestation and for-
Whilst the significance of forest certification cannot be understated, the primary drivers behind achieving and maintaining certification have typically been market demand followed by securing a social license. These drivers are evolving, which is crucial to the longevity and health of the industry. Forest certification serves as a crucial technical tool for discussing the favourable outcomes of sustainable forest management on both ecosystems and forest health. The story is bigger than just the product.
Certification standards are effective tools for safeguarding our forests, with strict requirements in place for ensuring there is no defor-
Highlighting the positive impacts of certification needs to play a pivotal role in bolstering the credibility of certification scheme members’ sustainable practices and responsible sourcing. Consequently, this effort needs to contribute to enhancing the reputation of organisations responsible for bringing forest products to market. This becomes particularly pertinent considering the prevailing challenges within the industry. Negative (and ill-informed) public perception and the propagation of misinformation regarding forestry practices pose substantial hurdles.
Sustainable forest certification isn’t a solution for deforestation and other market issues but it’s a meaningful step in the right direction when it comes to the increasing demand for renewable, carbon-positive products like timber and other forest-based products.
Simon Dorries
CEO
Responsible Wood
Climate credentials, housing shortage and native forestry in spotlight
It’s been another big 12 months for Tasmanian forestry, with our climate credentials, the need for timber for our state’s housing shortage and the future of native forestry again in the spotlight.
Over the last year, Tasmanian forestry has positioned itself as a key industry in the state, leading the debate on the construction of a new football stadium in Hobart, and working with both sides of politics to gain bipartisan support for the continuation of native forestry across Tasmania.
Away from the cut and thrust of politics, our forestry and related industries on our island state are continuing to boom, as the
state looks to sustainable forestry for solutions to climate change.
A key focus for our industry this year has been “on island processing”. Keeping the processing in Tasmania means we value add in Tasmania, creating jobs and opportunities for our state.
On-island processing is supported by the Tasmanian community, who understand the benefit to not only the economy but also the environment.
This public recognition, as well as increasingly positive messaging from our state leaders, is resulting in great innovation and value adding of both plantation and native timbers.
Continued investment is seeing our industry continually advance in the areas of high-quality veneers, construction ply, glue lam and wood/plastic composites as well as expanding softwood processing capacity and continued supply of fibre making its way to growing markets.
We are also continuing to see investment into research and trials of plantation eucalyptus nitens -where there is an opportunity to value add on island to a high value product.
Whilst there still exists an “anything but forestry” attitude in some sectors of the community - bolstered by the rash and devastating decision by Dan Andrews
in Victoria to end native forestry in that state - our advocacy, media and PR work is beginning to pay dividends, with people starting to understand the importance of forestry and the role we play in carbon mitigation.
For the coming 12 months, the TFPA will be focused on showing the public what difference a diverse and sustainable forestry industry can make to their lives – in areas such as future housing, a carbon free future, a plastic free future and jobs for the future.
The Tasmanian industry is working hard and continuing to innovate for the benefit of the industry across our island state.
Making headway and shifting mindsets
Forestry in South Australia is making headway and shifting mindsets like never before.
Looking back on the last 18 months, our industry has received record investments from the State Government, collaborated with significant corporate entities and delivered on much-needed policy initiatives that keep our sector moving.
Yet, there is still much more that needs to be done.
Our industry is intergenerational, and we need to think 30 years into the future to ensure the longevity and evolution of forestry meets the standards of tomorrow.
Through our policy initiatives and advocacy, the
the attention of Premier Peter Malinauskas and his Minister for Forest Industries, The Honourable Clare Scriven, MLC, who allocated an additional $19 million to further develop and support our industry and regional communities.
Since the 2022 State election, the Government have delivered a number of their key election commitments to forestry, particularly,
• $15 million for a new Centre of Excellence
• $2.3 million towards the future of fire detection,
• $2 million for a Forest Products Domestic Manufacturing and Infrastructure Masterplan,
South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) were grateful to secure
• appointment of new Forest Industry Advisory
Council of South Australia (FIAC-SA)
• appointment of a Cross Border Commissioner, and
• the re-establishment of Community Cabinet meeting in the South East.
Yet, this is just the beginning. To achieve a vibrant and robust forest and timber products industry in South Australia, we need to future-proof forestry.
SAFPA are continuously working with the State Government on policy reform, particularly trees on farms, removal of the water rule, advancing the domestic manufacturing masterplan, and to essentially get more trees in the ground.
Following on from the success of SAFPA’s inaugural policy platform, the document is currently being refreshed and the new election platform will be committed to delivering key initiatives that our industry needs.
It will be a platform that will bolster the productivity of forestry, particularly through delivering greater telecommunications connectivity, creating an inter-connected pathway for biomethanol and biochemicals products to decarbonize our economy, and to secure more trees in the ground – both hardwood and softwood and more opportunities for our resilient industry.
Nick Steel CEO
Tasmanian Forest Products Association
Nathan Paine CEO
South Australia Forest Products Association
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Lack of clarity, certainty has remained a constant
WESTERN Australia is fast approaching the two-year anniversary of the government’s announcement to ban native forestry.
It is less than four months now until the ban comes into effect and unfortunately, there is still no Forest Management Plan to map out that next chapter.
That lack of clarity and certainty has remained a constant since the announcement, despite the best efforts of FIFWA and industry.
The transition process has been a shambles.
Now the State Government has reneged on its commitment to industry to honour current contractual obligations to the end of 2023. The State Government has instructed the Forest Products Commission to focus on production of firewood over the production of sawlog and to stockpile firewood to protect the State Government from the public outcry that would have resulted from the looming
shortfall of firewood in winter 2024 ahead of the next state election. The State Government has no plan on how it will supply firewood in 2025 and future years. Sawmills had been promised that at least a few would be able to transition under the new Forest Man-
agement Plan. Based on this promise some sawmills had made a business decision to seek to transition but now find themselves being denied this opportunity as they have been told they can expect to receive very little to no supply of sawlogs for the rest of the year. They are being starved of resource and forced to exit the industry. For these sawmills, the Government has effectively brought forward the closure of the native forestry industry by 6 months by stealth, with no prior communication to FIFWA or impacted businesses, which includes furniture manufacturers who had been promised a continued supply of timber.
The callous disregard and lack of simple courtesy by the State Government in its refusal to provide timely advice to FIFWA and industry of its decisions together with the State Government’s outright rejection of industry solutions making these outcomes all the more difficult to stomach.
We have had to say good-
bye to some of industry greats this year, forced to close their businesses ahead of the ban. Their knowledge and skillsets will be greatly missed.
Despite their treatment from government, they remain passionate about the industry. The people and the passion are what helps make our industry so special.
Since last year’s update, we have welcomed a new Premier and a new Forestry Minister but alas, nothing really changed for forestry. Our frustrations are ongoing, but we will continue to try and engage with the State Government to achieve our mutual goals. At a time when governments around the world are investing in renewables, we continue to educate governments and the community that plantations are a renewable resource.
Our plantation sector continues to thrive, with a significant increase in plantings this season to over 8.5 million seedlings.
This was largely boosted by the State Government’s $350 million investment in expanding the softwood plantation estate, although only a small portion of the funds have so far been spent.
In truth, greater Government investment is needed to meet the State’s current and future demand for timber products and the Government investment needs to be diversified to grow both the hardwood and softwood plantation sectors.
We remain hopeful that the State Government will reform State Planning Policies and Guidelines to facilitate rather than frustrate private investment in growing the plantation estate. That is what we are essentially fighting for, the future. Great investment is critical, not only for timber production, but for fighting climate change, providing employment opportunities, underpinning regional communities and creating renewable and sustainable products.
Forestry in Victoria needs to find resilience – again
The political climate in Victoria remains challenging, after Labor won the 2022 election convincingly. For the hardwood sector - at the risk of preaching to the converted - it needs to be said that the decision by the re-elected Andrews government to end native forestry six years early has been appalling. It has triggered a string of devastating consequences, from the closure of Opal’s white paper line in Maryvale to entire communities being at risk of disintegrating. Far from being an outlier, Victoria and Western Australia are now used as examples by environmental groups and Labor factions to close the native industry in all states. As has been the case for the past years, no consideration is given to where the fibre we need for everyday products will come from. The fallout continues, with furniture makers and many others running out of raw materials. So far, the gov-
ernment has also failed to demonstrate how it will mitigate bushfire risks and
Exciting projects using zon, such as a methane fuel hub at Port Melbourne to
product thanks to a $1.3 million contribution from the Federal Government. Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) in partnership with the Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub (GTFIH) have received a grant to explore opportunities to create new wood products utilising softwood and hardwood.
fibre is the material of the future. We also found Government has become more open to a conversation about plantation forests and the key issues we need to support plantation forestry in Victoria.
are showcasing timber as a building material and the future of mass timber structures. Our latest case study will show Hines’ T3 in Collingwood, Melbourne - Australia’s tallest masstimber building to date.
provide alternative fuel for the shipping industry. This project by HAMR Energy would require 350,000t of biomass each year – predominantly from eucalypt. Other projects include a first of its kind Green Triangle wood trial. It will explore how to use wood fibre in a new structural timber
In the softwood sector, land prices remain a barrier to the plantation expansion that is needed to support increasing the supply of new homes. Some also fear that environmental activists will shift their focus to plantations, creating an atmosphere of untruths. To counteract this, we have consulted with our members to identify potential issues and are currently drafting responses to criticism. Overall, the softwood sector has gone from strength to strength, bolstered by government grants and an onshore and offshore market that is increasingly convinced that wood and wood
While it might sometimes seem doom and gloom here in Victoria, it was heartening to see a slightly more balanced view in the media when it comes to reporting on forestry-related issues. It has also been good to see the industry coming together, challenging the government to do better.
To further support a positive positioning in the public, we have created awareness program called Victoria Wood to win the hearts and minds of Victorians. The program shows the variety of Victorian wood products and educates the audience on what forestry is. We have covered examples of growers (HVP), processors (ASH), and various end products such as timber furniture. Next, we
As an industry association, we continue to advocate for the best interests of our members while broadening our membership base. Wood and wood fibre are essential products, and the industry supports up to 115,000 businesses in Victoria alone.
After the disastrous decision by Victoria’s Labor Government, our future objectives for the industry are to plant more trees, protect the state from fire and pests, advocate for more timber in the built environment, highlighting the carbon benefit of plantation and production forests, advocate for better access to labour short and long term and for more involvement of Traditional Owners in managing forests.
Deb Kerr CEO Victorian Forest Products Association
Adele Farina CEO
Forest Industries Federation (WA)
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Queensland industry remains focused on long-term
In many ways 2023 has been a positive year for the Queensland timber industry in terms of ongoing advocacy on resource security issues and use of timber for future building needs, according to Timber Queensland peak body chief Mick Stephens.
First and foremost has been a focus on the future of the native hardwood industry as the previous South-East Queensland Forest Agreement expires at the end of December 2024. Despite a common misperception from what has happened in two of the southern states, the Queensland Government is firmly committed to a long-term native
forestry industry drawing on both crown land and private forest resources.
The Minister for Agriculture, the Hon Mark Furner, has repeatedly publicly stated that Queensland will not be following the same path as some of the southern states in relation to native forestry.
This agenda is borne out by the 2019 Timber Action Plan and policy process being followed which includes the release of a Discussion Paper and consultation later this year on new policy directions for the native hardwood industry. These directions have been informed by the Native Timber Advisory Panel which included industry, union and First Nation representatives, which has helped to build a coalition of allied views and opportunities to achieve common objectives for the sector.
TQ anticipates that by early to mid-2024 a secure policy framework will be in place with the State Government on hardwood availability, which will help unlock tens of millions of pipeline investment in downstream processing and more regional jobs. More work is also planned on promoting and advocating for new forestry carbon methods under the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) for managed native forests that include sustainable timber harvesting, as a means for achieving healthy forests and better long-term carbon outcomes. TQ is already in dialogue with a number of indigenous leaders to explore these opportunities across the state.
In the softwood sector, the industry was also pleased with a major policy win with the removal of the so called “water rule” in the ERF following many years of advocacy. This will help to promote new investment in planted forests as Queensland was a big loser under the previous perverse policy which was blocking access to eligible carbon credits.
TQ will also be working with industry partners to address local housing development pressures on existing plantation land in SouthEast Queensland.
Another ongoing priority is to promote farm forestry activities given the large areas of grazing land that can support carbon farming together with wood and livestock production. In 2024 the financial modelling results from the TQ led agroforestry trials in North Queensland will begin to be released, which will help inform graziers and landowners of the potential benefits of agroforestry systems.
The Queensland Government is also progressing its thinking on planning and infrastructure needs for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. At the TQ biennial conference in June, the Assistant Minister to the Premier Bart Mellish supported the use
of mass timber as a sensible legacy for the Games. This is being followed up with briefings and showcase events to better educate and advise the Government on the opportunities for using timber and legacy planted forests as part of their overall plan. Other key developments through the next year include building on the momentum of industry driven projects which have had support from either the state or federal Governments. These projects include managing the two regional forestry hubs in South and Central Queensland and North Queensland respectively; a native forestry operations regulatory compliance capacity building project; and Canopy – a new career and training skills hub for the Queensland industry. Collectively, these projects are building knowledge and capacity across the supply chain as well as delivering better outreach with schools and training providers which will help the industry to recruit and retain future workers and meet the growing demand for wood products. This expansion in applied projects and education has also meant an expanding TQ team which has been a positive sign for the industry going forward.
Challenges exist but there’s a bright future
From a general perspective across forestry clearly there are some challenges. But as a sector there’s no reason why we shouldn’t see a bright future.
The long term prospects and long term fundamentals are really sound and we’ve got a great industry, which is, as we know, sustainable and renewable.
So it’s always a bit curious, in a way, the sort of situation that we currently find ourselves in.
But if we can manage this next period, which I’m sure we can, we should be confident about the fundamentals and the future.
Big opportunities lie in mass timber construction. That’s a new growth market. But there’s also the traditionals, in housing and
fibre packaging to replace plastics.
We know that the challenges the world faces now which are around sustainable land and resource management, lowering emissions, and lowering our environmental footprint as a society, as a community.
And I see that forests, forest products, and forest and wood products industries just fit so neatly into that as an agenda.
If you want to reduce emissions, then you need to look at every stage.
replacements, plastic replacements.
What is it that the world needs now? It needs industry that actually understands how to manage landscape in a volatile climate and with low inputs.
And that’s what we’re doing in Australia, because we’ve had to do that.
That’s the landscape that we manage. We manage volatility, we manage risk, we manage low inputs and we do very, very well. This is what the world needs now.
And it’s what the world is going to need more and more.
High-embedded carbon, low embodied carbon materials? Well, that’s clearly timber. Where and how do we want to avoid fossil fuel use? It’s in energies and bio energies, it’s in packaging
And forestry actually fits very neatly within that as a package.
If you don’t want to use timber in construction, then you’re going to use more steel and concrete.
But steel and concrete emit carbon just as a factor of their production. Timber, of course, sequesters carbon.
The joy of timber is that we can sequester carbon in the landscape, we can store that carbon in the products, and through recovery and recycling we can use that carbon, in its stored and stable forms, over and over and over again.
If we lock up the forest, and we say, ‘Oh, well, this forest is too beautiful’ it will store carbon only to the point where it’s mature. It’s fanciful to think the forest will continue to sequester more and more carbon forever.
This is just biology, chemistry and physics. It’s not magic.
Tim Lester
General Manager
Australian Forest Contractors Association
● Timber Queensland is promoting farm forestry activities given the large areas of grazing land that can support carbon farming together with wood and livestock production.
Softwood’s unique opportunity to invest in manufacturing
• Timberlink staff with the first GLT beam from its newly commissioned line at
Timber is growing in popularity as a building material of choice due to greater public awareness of its potential carbon storing abilities, renewability and biophilic qualities.
As this global demand grows, the Australian softwood industry is presented with the unique opportunity to invest in manufacturing innovation to meet changing consumer requirements.
Timberlink has made significant investments in innovation through timber manufacturing across both of its large-scale facilities in Tasmania and South Australia.
These investments will enable Timberlink to become a more diverse wood products business, transitioning from mainly relying on stick timber structural framing products to structural building elements that provide construction solutions.
This year Timberlink will complete construction on Australia’s only combined radiata pine Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (GLT)
● Timberlink CEO Ian Tyson.
manufacturing facility, increasing Australia’s sovereign capability to manufacture these products while reducing reliance on imports.
This NeXTimber facility will be co-located with Timberlink’s Tarpeena, SA, manufacturing facility. Mass timber products offer an exciting alternative to traditional construction materials, with the potential to assist to decarbonise construction in Australia by storing carbon for the life of the timber.
In mid-August, Timberlink produced its very first GLT beam on its newly com-
● Timberlink EGM Sales, Marketing & Corporate
Affairs David Oliver, Tasmanian Resources
Minister Felix Ellis and Timberlink Bell Bay Facility
Manager Scott Freeman at Timberlink’s Bell Bay manufacturing facility
missioned line.
“This is a very meaningful day for Timberlink,” said Timberlink CEO Ian Tyson.
“From our first sod turn in February 2022 to producing our first GLT beam in August 2023, we are well on the way to full production which is scheduled for October this year.”
Likewise, at its Bell Bay, TAS manufacturing facility, Timberlink has almost
completed construction on its wood-composite plant, which will manufacture upcycled decking and screening products using postconsumer plastic waste which is granulated and provided to Timberlink by a 3rd party.
TTimberlink is also constructing a new fingerjointed and primed outdoor products line at its Bell Bay facility. The line is expected to be completed in late 2023.
“This new finger-joined and primed outdoor timber products line will be the
imber is growing in popularity as a building material of choice.
The plastic is mixed with Tasmanian plantation pine residues from Timberlink’s own Bell Bay facility. This plant will be the only facility in Tasmania to manufacture these products.
Timberlink’s wood-composite plant will be powered by a combination of rooftop solar and Tasmanian hydro power, while rainwater will be harvested and stored to be used for cooling in the manufacturing process. Production is scheduled to begin in late 2023.
only one of its kind in Australia,” Timberlinks Chief Sales, Marketing, and Corporate Affairs Officer, David Oliver, said.
“Timberlink is excited to be able to offer a locally produced product for the Australian market and reduce the need for imported timber.”
Timberlink is pleased to play a part in increasing the amount of renewable Australian timber solutions being used in both domestic and commercial construction projects of the future.
Tarpeena.
Australian-led research and education to innovate the use of timber
Building customer confidence in the longerterm performance of timber products is a key component to increase the use of timber across the value chain, and especially in the built environment.
Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) are proud to play a key role in supporting a range of Australian-led research programs and innovative partnerships between industry, academia and government, designed to provide evidence-based recommendations and roadmaps to help position Australia at the forefront of international best practice.
The National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life was established in 2017 at the University of the Sunshine Coast and has since made significant progress in building links between industry, academia and consumers, to enhance confidence in the use of timber in the built environment. Its focus is also to educate a future generation of students who have the capacity to work in the wood products industry or research organisations.
The varied work of the centre to date has ranged from the development of new, longer-lasting timber products through to the reduction of wood waste and new opportunities in the circular economy. Ex-
CEO Forest and Wood Products Australia
tensive testing has been undertaken of Australian commercial species, new timber building products and their proposed application in Australia. Evaluation and performance of treatment, preservatives, moisture ingress controls and fire durability form a foundation for best practise applications across the built environment.
With the recent appointment of its new Director, Professor Tripti Singh, the Centre has entered an exciting next stage in its evolution.
“The centre has already led some vital research projects which have provided significant value to the Aus-
tralian forestry and wood products industry. It has attracted the attention and support of world-leading researchers and is well on its way to meeting its objective of creating a new generation of Australian durability researchers.” said Dr Chris Lafferty, Research and Development Manager at FWPA.
The ARC Research Hub to Advance Timber for Australia’s Future Built Environment (ARC Advance Timber Hub) works to transform Australia’s timber and construction sectors by stimulating rapid growth in timber innovation and uptake of use of timber in buildings, plus establishing a roadmap for change.
A great recent success story with genuine collaboration between academia and industry was the updated WoodSolutions Technical guide #39 on Robustness (published in July 2023), following the work performed by the research project “Progressive collapse (robustness) resistance of tall timber frame buildings with CLT floors”. This research was funded partially by the Australian Government through the recently completed Australian Research Council (ARC) Research Hub for Advanced Solutions to Transform Tall Timber Buildings.
ARC Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity
With the emerging needs of plant biosecurity in Australia, we welcome the Australian Government’s recent announcement of $5M in funding for a new Australian Research Council (ARC) Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity.
The ARC Training Centre will launch an innovative training program for future leaders, with a cohort of graduates innovating in the areas of novel diagnostic technologies, datadriven decision platforms, and addressing barriers to biosecurity adoption. This suite of graduates and technologies will transform the plant biosecurity sector to protect Australia’s $5.7 trillion natural and productive ecosystems.
“This research is of key importance especially for our grower members, as
biosecurity is a critical part of Australia’s efforts to prevent, respond to, and recover from pests and diseases that impact and threaten the forestry industry” said FWPA Forest Research Manager Jodie Mason.
“Our grower members identified forest health and biosecurity expertise as an area of critical importance for capacity building. True to their vision, the growers collectively contributed $250,000 to the Centre to support two PhD students to work on industry biosecurity challenges with industry. It’s really pleasing to now see this initiative supported through the ARC funding.” These major initiatives not only help promote sustainable practices across the built environment, but also contributes to building workforce capabilities across our industry to meet future needs.
Andrew Leighton
● ARC Research Hub testing the strength of a CLT flooring panel.
Supports diameter prioritised bucking and full value optimised bucking
• StanForD 2010 v2 & v3, auto back-up
Supports diameter prioritised bucking and full value optimised bucking
• Log Mate Navigator and Fleet (opt.)
• StanForD 2010 v2 & v3, auto back-up
• 10” wide-screen,
• Log Mate Navigator and Fleet (opt.)
• 10” wide-screen,
• Windows 10, built-in battery
• Built-in GPS,
• Windows 10, built-in battery
• WiFi & Bluetooth for network connectivity CONTROL SYSTEM
• Built-in GPS,
• WiFi & Bluetooth for network connectivity CONTROL SYSTEM
Bushfire focus remains
Forestry Corporation is responsible for more than 2.2 million hectares of native and planted forests and has been formally involved in firefighting in NSW for 100 years.
It has been working closely with the Rural Fire Service to implement the recommendations of the Black Summer Bushfire Parliamentary Inquiry.
Assets including fire tankers and light vehicles are being renewed or retrofitted to ensure the firefighting fleet remains safe, fit-for-purpose and ready for rapid deployment.
Major investments are also being made in strategic fire trails and installing hardware to transition to the Government Radio Network and fireground radios. Fire management is underpinned by closer than ever collaboration with the Rural Fire Service and other land managers.
Forestry Corporation is continuing to contribute to and implement cross-tenure risk management plans developed by local Bush Fire Management Committees. Ongoing focus and investment ensures Forestry Corporation remains pre-
pared and equipped for fires, which will increase in importance as the weather conditions are projected to return to a dryer cycle following several years of La Nina conditions.
Climate change and renewable future
Sustainable forest management that delivers an ongoing yield of renewable timber production has been recognised as delivering large, sustained climate change mitigation benefits.
This is being bolstered through new opportunities to facilitate renewable energy production in the softwood plantation estate. A market process commenced in FY22 seeking proposals for renewable energy projects in four key locations. Submissions will be considered to identify projects that can be facilitated while maintaining timber supply and delivering community benefits.
Planting program building for the future
Forestry is a long-term industry and what’s harvested tomorrow must first be planted today.
● The salvage program from the 2019-2020 bushfires is now complete.
The 2023 planting program saw around 11 million softwood seedlings and 1.2 million hardwood seedlings planted across NSW State forests.
The softwoods planting program is lower than the record 16 million seedlings sown in 2021 post bushfire to reestablish the softwood es-
tate, however is still larger than prebushfires.
The accelerated planting program will continue into 2026 to replant areas affected by fires.
The seedlings were largely grown in the organisation’s Blowering and Grafton nurseries which have been upgraded to accommodate the in-
a constant
creased planting program post the Black Summer Bushfires.
While we are still feeling the impacts of black summer bushfires, the efforts of recent years will see us trend back to a vibrant softwoods industry.
Softwoods salvage harvesting complete
The impact of the Black Summer Bushfire is still being felt on the softwoods plantation estate.
Roughly one third of plantations in the area surrounding Tumut and Bombala were impacted by the 2019-2020 bushfires.
The salvage program has now concluded; harvesting timber that was burnt in the Black Summer bushfires.
Fire-affected timber has the same structural properties as unburnt timber, so can be harvested and
processed into house frames, furniture and other essential renewable wood products.
Initial estimates predicted a 12-month window to salvage the timber before it deteriorates, however in practice this was much longer and over 2.5 million tonnes of softwood timber could be salvaged.
To support snowy timber mills in the ongoing recovery and local timber shortfall, Forestry Corporation has redirected Walcha softwoods to Tumut and Tumbarumba processors. This will see around 270,000 tonnes of sawlog timber delivered over the next three years. This timber was previously destined for export.
Of note is that the timber is being transported primarily by rail, meaning safer roads and saving an estimated 3 million litres of fuel.
Largest forest infrastructure repair program in our history
Forestry Corporation is delivering record investments in recovery from and preparedness for natural disasters.
Construction will ramp up through 2023 and 2024 to restore infrastructure impacted by flooding over recent years for the benefit of communities and industry
Forestry Corporation is continuing to deliver on the NSW Government’s investment to repair critical road infrastructure including flood-damaged roads, bridges and culverts in State forests.
The damage to the State forest road network from extreme weather has been substantial. The funding is earmarked for use in local government areas declared as flood affected and stretches across large portions of the state.
Forestry Corporation has recruited around 20 people across NSW to work on the repair program, a substantial boost to regions affected by storms, flooding, fires and COVID over recent years.
● Forestry Corporation is continuing to repair critical road infrastructure including flood-damaged roads, bridges and culverts.
We expect this recruitment drive to contribute around $7.5 million over three years, representing a significant contribution to regional employment and the positive flow on effects from there.
The repair program will involve more roading than Forestry Corporation has ever delivered in its 100 year history.
Forestry poised to embrace opportunities and address challenges
Forestry in Australia and Forestry Australia stand at a critical juncture, poised to embrace opportunities and address the challenges that will shape the future of our vitally important sector and honourable profession.
Forestry Australia wants to see biodiversity flourish, we want to prevent devastating bushfires, we want to ensure all our forests are managed sustainably, and we want to find solutions to climate change. We recognise the imperative to manage our forests better for the health and prosperity of our environment, economy and society.
Forestry Australia believes that Australia’s forests, if managed well, have the capacity to support all forest values including biodiversity, conservation, water, carbon, and social and commercial interests and the future of forest management should include empowerment of Traditional Owners including twoway capacity building. The forestry sector in Australia provides some of the solutions to the wicked problems that our forests and society are facing.
The rise of the green economy presents a remarkable opportunity for Australia’s forestry sector. With high
demand for sustainable products and a focus on carbon sequestration, timber and forest products offer environmentally friendly options. Our sustainably managed forests can serve as a wellspring of renewable resources, providing a well-regulated supply of timber for construction, bioenergy, and manufacturing. Forestry can play a critical role in
both Australia’s economic growth and environmental well-being.
As a smart profession, technology serves as a powerful ally in reshaping the future of forestry. Technological innovation also opens new doors for the forestry sector. Advancements in remote sensing, drones, artificial intelligence, and data analytics enable us to monitor forests more effectively, optimise operations, and ensure ecosystem health. These tools empower us to make informed decisions, enhance efficiency, and safeguard our natural resources.
We welcome the increased focus on the benefits of farm forestry to improve farm productivity, sequester carbon, support biodiversity, produce wood and fibre as well as diversify income streams for land holders. A successful national farm forestry strategy will require national forest policy settings that allow and actively encourage landowners to integrate tree plantings into their farming systems. There is a risk that as various governments and agencies rush into this area that there will be a duplication of initiatives and resources. For this pivot towards farm forestry to be successful we need to collaborate as a sector and be mindful of lessons from our past. While opportunities abound, the forestry sector must also confront significant challenges. The native forestry sector in particular continues to face political instability, due to multiple factors, notably the lack of a clear shared vision for the management of Australia’s public forests, encompassing State forests, national parks and conservation reserves. This lack of a national vision, supported by strong policy commitments, has contributed to legal challenges and deconstructive debates that have obscured the critical role of forestry in providing active forest management across the public land estate. Meanwhile, climate change impacts, reflected in increasing temperatures and devastating bushfires, have become the major threats to the health and resilience of Australia’s native forest ecosystems. As consequences of these external factors, we have seen substantial disruptions across the forestry sector, resulting in a skills shortage that could, if not addressed shortly, present significant limitations on maintaining both the public native forest estate and the growth of Australia’s national plantation estate.
In response to these challenges, and with a desire to be seen to be “doing something”, some State governments have reacted with poorly conceived policy decisions, based on ideology rather than science and experience, and there has been a distinct lack of consultative processes involving stakeholders such
as Forestry Australia.
Forestry Australia considers that a paradigm shift in forest management is required, involving substantial investment in implementation of active and adaptive forest management practices to address the increasing threats from bushfires, invasive species and climate change. This paradigm shift needs to occur across all forest land tenures - National Parks, State forests and private forests.
The future of forestry in Australia is not just about forests; it’s about people. Constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts involving politicians, government bodies, Traditional Owners and Indigenous groups, local communities, environmental organisations, and forestry stakeholders are essential. Most Australians are unaware that our dynamic and sustainable sector can provide nature-based solutions to the ‘wicked problems’ faced by our forests and our environment. Respectful conversations that promote evidence-based environmental literacy are an integral part of securing a positive future.
In conclusion, as we operate in a challenging environment that is subject to short term political thinking and high emotion, Forestry as a sector and Forestry Australia need to encourage our profession to think broadly about our future, look for changes in our operating environment and identify the opportunities and challenges we are likely to face. More than ever, our sector needs to be strategic, adaptive and creative. Pragmatically, we may need to change past approaches and develop a renewed vision of our sector. Forestry will need to disrupt itself before we are further disrupted, to positively respond to external forces that impact us and ensure a bright future for our sector, our forests and the communities that rely on them.
About Forestry Australia
Forestry Australia is a professional association with over 1,200 members. Our members have both high levels of scientific expertise and extensive operational experience in managing forests. They operate across all aspects of forest, fire and land management and tree growing throughout Australia. While some members manage forest harvesting operations or work for private forest companies, many others are academics; researchers; and scientists working in government agencies responsible for conservation, forest fire management, and urban forest management. Our members also include forest consultants and private landowners. As scientists, we advocate for good science, practical and effective solutions, and holistic and balanced outcomes for our forests.
Michelle Freeman Forestry Australia President
Forest industries have the best from the best
Australia is known for its vast forest resources, which contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
To efficiently harvest timber from these forests, the use of advanced machinery has become essential. Forest harvesting machinery in Australia has undergone significant advancements in recent years, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and innovative features.
The evolution of forest harvesting machinery in Australia has revolutionized the timber industry, enhancing productivity, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Feller bunchers, skidders, harvesters, forwarders, and chippers each play a crucial role in optimizing the entire forest harvesting process.
By utilizing innovative machinery, Australia can continue to harness the vast potential of its forests while preserving their long-term health and vitality.
With ongoing advancements in technology, these machines continue to evolve, providing even more
efficient and sustainable solutions for the forestry sector.
As the demand for timber grows, so does the importance of investing in advanced forest harvesting machinery to meet industry needs while preserving Australia’s valuable forest resources.
The forestry industry in Australia is in a fortunate position in terms of machinery suppliers.
We have access to the best from the best.
More importantly these suppliers have gained the trust of the industry and have shown their commitment in many ways, including being strong supporters of FORESTRY NOW and FORESTRY EQUIPMENT NOW for the past three years.
It’s worth taking the time to check out the digital profiles in FORESTRY EQUIPMENT NOW which include details on company information, products and services.
You can use the QR code to easily access the digital profiles included in each listing.
Supplying Hultdins grapples and saw units in Australia for over 30 years, Forest Centre continues to support contractors both in and out of the forest with their equipment and repair needs, stocking a huge inventory of SuperGrip, SuperSaw and SuperCut spare parts from their base in Tumut, NSW.
2023-event/hultdins
Tigercat manufacture purpose-built forestry equipment to the highest standard. The product range offers everything from logging, off road industrial and material processing equipment for complete timber solutions. Tigercat owners in Australia are backed by unrivalled product support based in 8 different locations including factory trained field service technicians, factorydirect representatives, and a substantial local parts inventory.
ExTe is the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of log bolsters and automatic tensioners. Forest-proven in Australia for over 30 years, ExTe combination log bolsters with steel base and aluminium stakes continue to evolve providing the ultimate combination of high durability and payload capacity.
Tigercat Forestry Equipment
Caterpillar
Move More Timber
Superior performance coupled with exceptional comfort and safety make the next generation 548 forest machine a perfect choice for producing extraordinary results. Do more work with increased engine, swing and travel power resulting in up to 10% more productivity. Better filters with extended service intervals help you save up to 15% lower maintenance cost.
Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) is Australia’s leading forest products sector voice to the Federal Government. Representing the full supply chain of forest industries, AFPA’s advocacy continues to result in positive national policy for our sector. If your business or organisation is interested in membership, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Heads above the competition
Built tough and reliable
Fecon Australia has developed a reputation for delivering the most durable forestry mulchers on the market, that no-compromise approach extends into each of our product lines. When you experience the Fecon difference, you’ll know it. We equip every customer with heavy-duty equipment and industry-leading whole of life support.
Trimble Forestry
Our Connected Forest solutions are designed to improve productivity and streamline all forestry operations with solutions to manage the full raw materials lifecycle of planning, planting, growing, harvesting, transportation and processing. We offer the World’s leading integrated software and solutions for collecting, communicating and analysing information across the forestry business.
2023-event/trimble Delivering the connected Forest.
Get in touch +61 477 007 134 aaron_ford@trimble.com https://forestry.trimble.com/
TMK Machinery
Cutting and handling timber
Manufactured in Finland, TMK Machinery attachments provide contractors with unique solutions for cutting and handling timber. Today, the TMK product range includes simple and efficient tree shears for 1 ton right through to 30 ton excavators, plus the new Multigrab series, which can all be customised with a range of options to best suit the work ahead. Visit
Waratah Forestry Equipment
H219X
The Waratah H219X is designed for large clearfell and large pole debarking, high quality delimbing, low wood damage and high wood utilisation with two rollers and optional topping saw.
Primarily for tracked carrier applications, the H219X comes standard with a heavy-duty tilt frame for maximum productivity.
Get in touch 03 9747 4200 www.waratah.com
Responsible Wood
www.forestrynow.com.au/ 2023-event/tmkmachinery
Inside Eco Log´s new G-series harvester cabin
Eco Log has launched a completely new harvester cabin and along with it - the G-serie harvesters.
The new cabin has been designed with full focus on the operator, where every part has been carefully selected to create the best conditions possible for an efficient, productive and comfortable working day.
“Here at Eco Log, we are in constant dialogue with our customers and we try to listen to them and learn more about their requests and what they need to make their operations work as optimal as possible,” Head of Product Development at Eco Log Emil Forsblom said.
“The development work is really a team-effort and the result of this is a spacious harvester cabin with good ergonomics, effective sound insulation, great visibility and a whole new system for cab climate and a wellplanned work lightning.
“Also, we have put a lot of effort into the cabins interior, in everything from smart storage and broad
charging options to modern palettes and a great sound system. We simply offer a really great cabin,” he said.
The G-series pendulum arm harvesters includes the models 550, 560, 580 and 590. The new Eco Log 580G has now raised to yet another level and shares the same platform as Eco Log 590, which means it is an even stronger machine than before.
“I really want to highlight our new 580G. It excels through versatility and strength, and I am sure
that anyone who tries it will agree,” Mr Forsblom said.
Eco Log has introduced several, large updates on the pendulum harvesters, from a new control system, new rear wheel transmission and anti-spin system to a simplified hydraulic system and several improvements regarding serviceability and safety through improved access. All of these updates are now implemented on the new G-series.
“A lot has happened with our harvesters in the 500-se-
Eco Log´s new harvester cabin:
● A spacious cabin with ample storage possibilities. The swivel seat enables you to easily access and use the rear cab section.
● The cab boasts windows made of thick safety glass and secure access routes via a brand new platform that allows you to enter and exit your cab via the side-mounted door both easily and safely.
● The cab uses a brand-new approach for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The system has automatic temperature regulation and has been thoroughly tested in both hot and cold climates.
● The interior is modern and well thought out. It offers, amongst others, plenty of space, several smart storage possibilities and broad charging options with multiple connections.
● All G series harvesters are equipped with our Eco Log NexSci control system, user-friendly keypads, an eleven-button joystick, and a new sound system with integrated subwoofer that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
● The interior of the cabin also has effective sound insulation and comfortable lighting in the shape of integrated LED lamps.
● Several options for work lightning at the front as well as rear side of the cabin.
ries. We already know that they excel in several areas such as high productivity, reliability and serviceability. This, in combination with the latest updates and
now, our new harvester cabin, allows us to offer our customers modern, futureproved machines that are something quite extra,” Mr Forsblom said.
Caterpillar celebrates 50,000th wheel excavator
In 1984, Caterpillar, Eder and Zeppelin Baumaschinen, the Cat dealer in Germany, introduced a new wheeled excavator line, offering four models under the Cat Eder brand.
Eight years later, the line became a 100% Cat product with a designated wheel excavator team.
Twenty-eight years later, in 2012, Caterpillar celebrated production of its 25,000th wheel excavator.
This year, Caterpillar announces production of its 50,000th wheel excavator, a Cat M318 Next Gen model, adding another 25,000 units to the total in just 11 years.
“Offering quick movement on the job site and from site to site without
damaging the ground, the wheel excavator proved to be a game changer for contractors working in congested areas and markets with mature infrastructure,”
Brian Abbott, vice president
of product management for the Excavation division said.
“The advanced hydraulic design, plumbed differently than conventional excavators, allows them to go
beyond digging to operate a range of hydraulic work tools to increase application flexibility. We are pleased to present our 50,000th production wheel excavator to our long-time customer, Wolff & Müller.”
During a ceremony at the Caterpillar facility in Grenoble, France, representatives from Caterpillar and Zeppelin presented the 50,000th commemorative Cat M318 to representatives from Wolff & Müller Holding GmbH & Co. KG.
On hand to receive the machine from the contractor were Torsten Schuckert, head of logistics service unit, and Siegfried Cammerer, manager of machine and device technology service unit logistics.
The flagship Cat M318 Wheel Excavator offers a well-balanced design of size and performance. It’s compact enough to work in tight spaces but delivers high performance for larger projects, making it the goanywhere, all-around performer. Recent design advancements offer increased fuel economy, higher swing torque, improved visibility and maintenance parts savings over the previous model series and a suite of technology such as Cat Grade, Cat Payload and Cat E-Fence. Remote diagnostics tools – Remote Troubleshoot and Remote Flash – help the M318 deliver high performance and maximum efficiency with minimum downtime.
● Mario Meier from Zeppelin Baumaschinen GmbH, and Torsten Schuckert from Wolff & Müller Holding GmbH & Co with the 50,000th units.
CONNECTED FORESTTM BUSINESS
Forestry software for Wood Procurement and Contracting
Trimble Forestry’s CFBusiness portfolio includes LIMS, a widely used Log Accounting and Contracting System. LIMS provides management control over all phases of timberland, woodland, yard and mill operations.
LIMS can be implemented to includes WeighWiz, LabWiz and ScaleWiz. In addition, LIMS can be integrated with CFX (Connected Forest Xchange) to provide visibility into key operational data, such as electronic tickets, fiber source GPS coordinates, and detailed supply chain records, which can be viewed in real-time.
The CFX platform includes cloud-based dashboards and mobile-ticketing applications seamlessly interfacing to provide real-time visibility to electronic load tickets from harvesters, haulers, and scaling sites.
To learn more about Trimble’s Connected Forest solution and to request a demonstration of our LIMS/CFX solution, visit forestry.trimble.com, email forestrysales@trimble.com or call our office in Rotorua, New Zealand at +64 7348 0308.
LOOKING BACK
2020
The newly formed Victorian Forest Products Association will replace the Victorian Association of Forest Industries within six months.
Harvesting heads New Log Max head ready for the tough stuff
The new Log Max
The VFPA announced its 23 foundation members and elected its Interim Governing Council in early September.
An interim steering committee has been formed to manage the process.
2017
A NEW Work Health and Safety Audit Tool is now available nation-wide to support organisations demonstrate and report their compliance against various safety standards.
The tool, which was the brainchild of the Forest Owners and Service Suppliers (FOSS) committee, was developed in collaboration with ForestWorks. The FOSS committee consists of forest contracting businesses and forest managers in the Green Triangle. It was developed to meet the challenge of foresting contracting businesses being audited by multiple forest managers, against slightly different standards.
The Work Health and Safety Audit Tool was launched at an event in Mount Gambier hosted by the Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA).
The Work Health and Safety Audit Tool is housed on the Forestry Better Business Program website, as it aligns to the safety standards.
2012
QUEENSLAND PREMIER
Campbell Newman’s’ announcement at the LNP State Conference Policy Forum that a Timber Industry Plan was one of the 149 issues his Government would address in the next six months has been welcomed by Industry peak body Timber Queensland amidst warnings of issues arising from the sale of the Government- owned plantation asset, Forestry Plantations Queensland.
Timber Queensland’s chief executive officer Rod McInnes said a working group had been formed.
7000XT harvesting head is a durable, easy-to-work, accurate, and intelligent workmate, ready for the toughest applications.
Weighing 2270 kg it has everything you would expect from a modern harvesting head and is designed to withstand the toughest applications no matter how or where in the world you use it. It offers accurate and precise length and diameter measuring and has many smartly designed features that greatly simplify service.
To improve the frame’s durability and life span, the attachments for all the delimbing knives and for the feed roller arms have been strengthened. The lower knife has a new reinforced mechanical stop in both open and closed positions. In the open position, the inside of the frame has been strengthened, inside the oil tank.
In the closed position, a mechanical stop has been integrated in the frame.
To increase the lower knifes lifting capacity and improve the stem holding, the cylinder for the lower knife has been upgraded. Both the lower knife attachment and the knife itself are updated to work optimally with the new larger cylinder.
The frame´s design around the measuring wheel hole has been modified and the stoppers for the roller arms on the inside of the frame reinforced.
A replaceable wear plate has been added on the frontside of the Top Saw box. Instead of wearing down the centerline of the frame, the new wear plate will take the hit.
The 7000XT Top Saw will, from now on, be equipped with a hydraulic top knife as standard. This feature allows the upper knife to automatically retract when the head feeds backward, a good way to protect the knife from damage. The 7000XT has new reinforced knives with welded knives edges.
What
● Durability : the frame is reinforced in many places to withstand the toughest jobs and increase lifespan.
● Cutting performance, the 7000XT Top Saw as new saw valves for both units that have been optimized to offer fast, trouble-free cutting.
● The measuring results, there is a high requirement for today’s harvester heads to deliver precise measurement results. The 7000XT measuring unit has been redesigned to meet these requirements.
● Simplicity & ease of access : It’s now even easier to perform regular maintenance and service on the head thanks to Improved accessibility, well laid out hoses and grease nipples makes life easier.
The knife-edge has an increased thickness and is interchangeable. The tip of the knifes have a smaller round tip, which makes them function more like a tweezer, making it easier to pick stems from a woodpile. The knives are also better suited for hardwood thanks to a steeper angle of the lower part of the knife helping to fend away thicker branching. The lower knife is reinforced to adapt to the new, more powerful cylinder.
Cutting performance
The head comes equipped with the 611 has the main
saw and the 318 for the top saw. The saw 611 has a 60cc (3.66 cu.in) motor, manual chain tensioning and 3/4” chain, the top saw is the 318 with a 30cc (1.83 cu.in) motor and automatic tensioning.
To increase the performance and durability of the top saw, a new valve has been added. It has also been given a new position on the frame to simplify service and settings. The main saw also has a new valve that provides increased durability and better controllability of the saw. The valve has a new placement, directly mounted on the motor out-
let, which minimizes the risk of cavitation. To improve cutting, the position of the main saw has been optimized. This modified geometry provides a faster cutting cycle and minimizes the risk of the wood splitting during cutting. This change in design of the saw box also provides extra room for the new, more powerful, saw cylinder.
To offer the best measurement results, the length measurement function has been totally rethought. The design of the measure wheel cylinder, the hydraulic circuit have been improved and the measuring wheel arm and its attachment reinforced.
The new measuring wheel unit includes a larger diameter measuring wheel. Altogether, the changes will allow the measuring wheel to follow the contour of the stem even better and provide the best measurement results.
The new length measuring sensor is now contactless meaning that there are no mechanical moving components that will result in minimal or even service and maintenance free sensor. The spring-loaded sensor is placed in the arm and retained by a lock ring. An o-ring prevents it from turning, a magnet is fixed to the cover which is part of the wheel assembly.
The measuring wheel assembly has also been equipped with a new bearing with tapered rollers which provides a more stable and stronger construction.
To simplify the maintenance of the roller bearing, a lubrication point on the aluminium cover of the measuring unit has been added.
The heads come with many more improvements, such as the new laser find end sensor, the integrated safety pin attachment, hose protections that protects the base machine hoses from sticks coming from the front...
makes the 2024 7000XT Top Saw special :
Excavators
Komatsu Forest develops the Forest Xtreme product line
Komatsu Forest Australia has spent the last three years developing and expanding the range of Komatsu Hydraulic Excavators to suit forest conditions incorporating the PC270LC-8 / PC300LC-8 / PC400LC-8 models.
The Komatsu excavators have a unique compensated load sense hydraulic systems which makes the Komatsu a very suitable carrier for the many different forest attach-
● 1 The smallest of the Xtreme Carriers is fitted with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage with 600mm SB or DB Grousers and Track Guards. It comes with Working Gear Booms designed with internal crane tip hosing to suit most Forest Attachments.
● 4 The Heavy-Duty Xtreme Attachment Carriers fitted with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage with 600mm SB or DB Grousers and Track Guards. Included is a Heavy -Duty Cooling System with HD Over-Body Guarding Package. The Working Gear Boom Set can carry most harvester and directional felling heads.
ments. This special hydraulic feature is what gives the Komatsu an advantage over its competitors in many applications.
In the early days the full benefits weren’t fully understood but it still made the installation of any attachment far more efficient when modifying a carrier for a for-
● 2 The smallest of the Loading Xtreme Carriers fitted with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage. The High-Rise rear entry Cabin provides excellent operational visibility and in combination with the Working Gear Booms accommodate most styles of loading grapples.
● 5 Comes with the Xtreme Base with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage with 600mm SB Grousers and Track Guards. The unit is fitted with an EMS Tractionline incorporating a Dual Winch & Cable System for a safer & more productive combination. It’s equipped with an EMS certified side entry forest cab.
estry attachment. It allowed the fitment of grapples and processor/harvester attachments to perform at a far higher and efficient level whether it was being utilised as a roadside processor or an infield harvester, and at a far less capital outlay.
Now the hydraulic system has been taken to an even higher level with the introduction of an Iqan control system. This system manages the exact pump output
● 3 The largest of the Loading Xtreme Carriers fitted with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage. The High-Rise rear entry Cabin provides excellent operational visibility and in combination with the Working Gear Booms accommodate most styles of loading grapples.
● 6 Comes with the Xtreme Base with Osaka factory High Wide Undercarriage with 700mm dB Grousers and Track Guards. The unit is fitted with an EMS Harvestline System. The Dual Winch & Cable System features an interlock operation providing greater flexibility for higher productivity. It’s equipped with an EMS certified rear entry forest cab.
in relation to what the attachment requires at any one time, improving fuel economy, while providing fully adjustable electronic joysticks.
“Once again giving the Komatsu a big advantage over its competitors”, said Brett Jones Komatsu Forest Managing Director.
The additional excavator modification process for forest applications has developed very quickly in recent years. Multiple companies such as EMS, and Active Engineering in NZ have developed guarding packages, certified Forest Cabs, as well as high/wide undercarriages and modified booms to suit various timber/loading applications. During the development stages Komatsu Forest has developed a close association with these companies to expand its presence in the marketplace.
Over time the demand for superior excavator modifications has led to ever increasing costs reaching the point where in some cases they had lost their cost advantage over purpose-built track machines. This led Komatsu Forest Aust to approach Komatsu Ltd (Japan) to assist in developing factory-built excavators suitable for the various forest applications. Factory fitted forestry options would be more cost effective and greatly reduce lead time to the end user which was a key focus for the project.
“Increased local costings meant there was no other option but to pursue a factory solution”, said Brett. Note, Brett has been the main driver behind these factory developments.
The first decision was to design and manufacture a high wide track frame with all the relevant features
which was simplified as the PC270LC-8 and PC300LC-8 already share the same standard track frame. Following the completion of the HW track frame, it was then decided to pursue a suitable factory boom option, in this case the factory had to design two different size boom sets for the PC270LC-8 & PC300LC-8.
“These two major options have been a real game changer when it comes to modifying an excavator for a forestry application” confirmed Brett,“ it reduces the time in a workshop by approximately 6 weeks.”
This is further enhanced by the boom tip and piping being able to accept any non-fixed tilting attachment like any common grapple or processing attachment whilst providing fully enclosed hosing at the knuckle and tip.
The factory high/wide track frames and boom sets have now been installed and tested in the field since they were completed in late 2020, to date the customer response and acceptance of these products has been exceptional. Komatsu Forest has now released a HD cooling package and is currently developing a full range of special guarding package to suit all potential forestry applications.
The combined Komatsu Forest and Komatsu Ltd development process in addition to the support from suppliers such as EMS and Active Engineering (NZ) will now provide up to nine new Forest Xtreme models to meet customer’s various forestry requirements such as log loaders, processors, harvesters, feller-bunchers, Tractionline, and Harvestline carriers.
New cloud-based log inventory and management system
Trimble has announced the launch of LIMS PRO, a new cloud-hosted version of its widely used Log Inventory and Management System (LIMS) to manage sawmill raw material procurement.
As a cloud-based log settlement solution, LIMS PRO is designed to improve operational visibility for mills. It enables small- and medium-sized forest product companies to realize productivity and growth gains that only large companies have historically been able to afford by digitizing lumber supply chain workflows.
Taking the power of LIMS and creating a more accessible Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) version, this robust business management software streamlines contracts, receiving, inventory and settlement processes into a single platform, providing forestry companies with a complete picture of their operations. In addition, the software assists with mobile ticketing in the woods before the logs make their way to sawmills, eliminating the need for manual recordkeeping.
Comprised of a mobile application, web-based applications and an onsite receiving application connected to the weigh scale, LIMS PRO provides an easily accessible reporting dashboard that shows ex-
actly what is happening from forest to sawmill. Whether in the woods or at the weighing scale, this new software simplifies the complete process for sawmills—taking it from days to hours through improved data accuracy, real-time reconciliation, minimization of processing errors and faster truck turn times.
“At Trimble, we work closely with our customers to digitize their supply chain data,” said Kevin Toohill, general manager of Trimble Forestry. “LIMS PRO enables partners and others along the value chain to digitally transform their operations—moving from paper tickets, log sheets and manual data entry to modern workflows. This means increased accuracy and less time spent tracking down paper copies
WesTrac turns to AI for warehouse effeciency
WesTrac has jumped on the AI tidal wave by incorporating it into day-to-day operations at its Tomago parts distribution warehouse, in New South Wales, with the launch of the AutoStore system.
AutoStore uses unique robots with memory technology powered by AI to understand where specific parts are stored in the warehouse, before they go and retrieve the orders within 5 to 10 minutes.
Warehouse Operations Manager Natalia Trewin said the AutoStore system has made the distribution centre operate in a safe and efficient manner by using robots to pick up orders, keeping people out of harm’s way.
“WesTrac’s warehouse operates 24/7 to provide our customers with efficient service, and with the tight labour market, we needed a practical solution to fulfill our customers’ orders as quickly as possible,” Ms Trewin said.
“We decided to implement the AutoStore system, which is set up
similar to a Rubik’s cube, with very densely packed plastic tubs sitting on top of each other in a large cube that robots dip down into to pull out needed parts.
“The system uses 24 robots, who are all uniquely identified with colours and names like Wall-E, Bumblebee and Pickeralla, that are capable of picking 500 product lines per hour.
“Not only does our warehouse operate more efficiently, but the design of AutoStore enabled WesTrac to gain an additional 1,000 square metres of space.”
Ms Trewin said that over time, the AI-powered robotic system will adjust locations of the parts in the warehouse based on live usage data, so the most required parts are at optimal positions.
“Since these robots joined the WesTrac team, we have started looking at potential future growth thanks to their quick turnaround time, which includes increasing customer orders and boosting the scale of our operations,” she said.
or entering data multiple times.”
“Leveraging our work with more than 500 large forestry customers, we have developed a hosted, cloudbased solution that gives small- and medium-sized businesses the opportunity to benefit from our enterprise expertise while having digital workflows tailored to meet their needs,” said Toohill. “This takes the complexity out of managing and maintaining a dedicated on-prem log and inventory management system.”
In addition to digitizing the supply chain, this new software enables forestry organizations to:
• Simplify load reconciliation by syncing the weigh scale to the settlement system within minutes
• Automate invoicing and financial settlements
• Track yard inventory while monitoring costs to procure timber inventory
• Manage key performance indicators and assess the overall health of the business
• Seamlessly share data with partners
• Eliminate need for additional IT infrastructure as the solution is hosted and managed in Trimble’s secure AWS cloud environment
• Integrate mobile tickets, using the LIMS mobile application, with weigh scales to replace hand-written tickets and log sheets
To learn more, visit: forestry.trimble.com/solutions/cfbusiness.
Supporting industry to develop workforce skills
ForestWorks is an industry-owned notfor-profit organisation offering services to support the skills development of the wood, paper, timber, textiles, furnishing and forest industries.
We partner with government, industry, unions, workers and training providers to develop a highly skilled workforce for our sectors. www.forestworks.com.au forestworks@forestworks.com.au
Phone: 1800 177
Technician of the Year title
Mark Haughton, from Drummond & Etheridge’s Rolleston branch, south of Christchurch, has won his second Construction & Forestry Technician of the Year title at the annual John Deere Technician Awards.
Announced at a gala ceremony in Brisbane, Mark secured the top accolade from a field of elite technicians from across Australia and New Zealand, after first securing the title at the inaugural John Deere Technician Awards in 2021.
The prestigious awards program champions the important contribution John Deere technicians make to the agriculture, construction and forestry industries, and honour the outstanding service and support highly skilled and committed techs make to the lives and businesses of John Deere’s valued customers. Other categories include Service Apprentice of the Year, Parts Apprentice of the Year and individual country awards for the Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year and Parts Technician of the Year.
Mark said he was proud to take home the trophy for the second time.
“I work pretty hard for customers and love that it’s being rewarded,” Mark said.
“But for me, the most rewarding part of being a John Deere technician is the daily interaction with customers, working on John Deere equipment and utilising John Deere’s full suite of tools available to diagnose and repair machines.”
Mark began his career through an automotive apprenticeship, before travelling to Western Australia to work in the mining industry. He later returned home to New Zealand to work with John Deere.
Other New Zealand winners in the Awards program included Bryce Dickson who was named the Agriculture and Turf Service Technician of the Year and Jimmy O’Donnell who took out Parts Technician of the Year.
Impulse marketing for bespoke wood
Milling is ‘cool’ for freedom lovers and rule breakers, Sarah and Nath Worth, despite the hard road they have taken in becoming a premier specialty timber destination for Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.
The couple created The Wood Project Sawmill because Nath wanted to own his own business. Despite having an untrained eye and only rudimentary skills, Nathan Worth was able to turn a whim of an idea into a successful enterprise it is today.
“We have a desire to work spontaneously and create something for ourselves says Nath, while wife Sarah injects how indelibly family-oriented they are. We are passionate about doing something that matters in life,” said Nath.
The couple set themselves a challenge but found they were going backwards, losing everything before they could begin the road to recovery.
“Things take time. Like a new winery, our kiln drying took a long time. We lost both our houses. We had no one else to copy and had bought some wrong machines,” said Nath.
They persisted with élan and dogged determination, in the belief that they could turn the business around, despite having to max out five of their credit cards.
“We had also quit our jobs, knowing the mill would require all our attention. It’s not something you can work on the side.”
The Worths began their journey cutting and selling firewood reaching a point of no return with the establishment of a fully-fledged saw mill, specialising in salvaged timber. They build
custom furniture and attach an historical significance to their origin. They are oneoff pieces hewed from local logs, destined for post and rail fences and bespoke items of furniture. The Wood Project team fashion table tops from raw timber slabs, relicts that would otherwise be turned into chips.
The business has been operating for 7 years but the pressure is ‘insane’, in Nath’s words. The pair had a bit of luck in finding a vacant paddock, and combined with recent cooler temperatures, the business morphed into a thriving business with a kiln, sawmill, an edger for post and rail, and room to expand.
“We do stuff as we go. The green logs we collect are good for post and rail, with most of our timber coming from the Red Hill area. Many trees fell down with strong easterly winds, but typically, these trees are rooted for westerlies. We also import some ironbark wood for our customers to meet their needs, but most of our timber is made of cypress pine, red gum, messmate, sugar gum, bunya pine, English oak, cedar, and claret ash.
With seven employees, Nath and Sarah are on the go milling and manning the sales outlet for their large ingrained slabs and furniture. ‘Our staff are good at what they do in the workshop but sales are not for everyone’. According to the
Worths, their 15 and 11-year old daughters might like to work in sales down the track.
The Wood Project’s marketing strategy is refreshing. From the get-go there is a thread of opportunity in the way they present themselves – the website is a contemporary one, taking the sawmill out of the ordinary into the exceptional – replete with educational Instagram vids, a musical duo on an overlay, and a steel guitar on one of the vids. They are researching new ways to enhance their product range, to clients who mostly reside along the coveted coastline, south east of Melbourne.
“I started my working life as a printer; went surfing in the afternoon, but all I want is to have fun. We are spontaneous, and love to create or do something different. We do the day-to-day operations and we give a second life to our local trees,” said Nath.
The Worths gather logs from farms, councils, schools, households, developers and businesses, using their trusty Wood-Mizer and wide belt sander to turn logs into tailored furniture and post and rail timber. None of their logs are sourced from the forests. Every
piece they make is curiously different - none like any other – depicting a ‘story behind each dining table that you can’t buy from a big retailer’. Added to the list of table slabs, they also produce mantels, shelves, bath tops, bathroom vanities and custom-made furniture.
“We understand that the unique character of notches and live edges of a timber slab aren’t for everyone. Our board tables are cherished by those who are still after the warmth and character of natural timber, but may also be interested in a more modern and affordable finished product which we also manufacture.
“We want our business to grow bigger, bigger and bigger and to create something special, something where we are not rivalled. When I look around I feel proud that every single slab standing here would not have existed except for The Wood Project. It would have been chipped away to sawdust, yet today it’s something,” said Sarah.
The dynamic duo sees more than a grain in wood, or the twirl of a curved live edge, because their mastery is in the passion of wood, knowing they are doing something with a log once pronounced dead.
• Sarah and Nath Worth
● The large logs yard
• Finished slabs at the Wood Project Sawmill.
Keith Smiley
OUTRUN™ AVERAGE.
ENHANCE PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY WHATEVER THE CONDITIONS.
Demanding environments call for a machine that’s up to the job. And when tackling the forest, there’s none more capable than John Deere’s Tracked Harvester. Available in 5 different models with differing levels of features and horsepower, there’s one that’s right for everyone.
They’ve been designed with proven components to withstand rugged tasks such as steep slope logging and swamp logging. And they’re packed with innovative features including Intelligent Boom Control for faster, more precise operating, and Timbermatic maps and TimberManager to take the guesswork out of effective decision making.
Thoughtfully designed. Built tough. John Deere’s Tracker Harvesters have everything you need to win in the woods.
johndeere.com.au/trackedharvesters
Komatsu Forest’s Unique Forest Combinations
The Komatsu PC270HW & PC300FX Extreme models have been developed by collaboration between Komatsu Forest & Komatsu Osaka Factory.
