SEPTEMBER 2018
Incorporating AUSTRALASIAN FOREST LOGGER & SAWMILLER
To know the future, look at the past Park plans will decimate rural communities $20m for forest roads upgrades — Inside
Product Support
Komatsu Forest Mt Gambier Branch
In the news
To know the future, look at the past You could have heard a pin drop when Chris Crump addressed the recent National Timber Councils Association conference. It was straight from the heart. He told the audience he didn’t classify himself as a public speaker but his knowledge, conviction and presentation was so good we had to publish it ‌.
I
have worked in the forest all my life. I am a third generation timber cutter. My family were DPRQJ WKH ¿UVW VHWWOHUV LQ WKH Mathoura district — north of Echuca in the southern Riverina. They farmed 4,000 acres in the middle of what is red gum forest today. I am here to represent my ancestors, past foresters and past timber cut-
Introduction to Chris Crump Chris started cutting sleepers with a swing saw and an old Fergie tractor (in his own business 1978) after he finished a boilermaking apprenticeship in Melbourne. Later Chris (and wife Dawn) obtained a monthly quota to cut railway sleepers for V/line - a portable sawmill was purchased to increase production and also began experimenting with kiln drying timber which is now another branch of the business.  In 2010 NSW State Forest lost 107,000 hectares to become a National Park - we were one of only 2 mills that choose to apply for a wood supply agreement with Forest Corp. NSW. A much larger mill was purchase and relocated to Mathoura from a Barham sawmill that had closed this kept some employment in the town which was hit hard by the loss of our forests. Currently we process the timber with a twin edger and a Grey bench. We supply Bunnings stores and several Melbourne timber yards with red gum garden sleepers, fence posts, wood chips and firewood. www.timberbiz.com.au
ters who are not here to now defend and show the true history of the Murray red gum forests. It seems to me that politicians and government bodies have taken it into their hands to rewrite and lie about our history to justify closing us down and destroying our towns and our lives. I am not a public speaker, so
I may stumble a bit but please bear with me. I once heard an old saying: “To know the future, look at the past.â€? This is our story‌. For well over 100 years we had a viable timber industry but now out of 40 sleeper cutWHUV ÂżUHZRRG FXWWHUV DQG ÂżYH VDZPLOOV RXU PLOO DQG one at Koondrook are all that
is left of an industry that less than 10 years ago was worth $86 million a year to the regional economy. Early in the 21st century green lobby groups began pestering the government to create a red gum national park. In 2003 the then president of the Australian Conservation Continued on Page 4
CUSTOMISED SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MILL Over 100 years of timber engineering solutions for optimum mill productivity
t .BOVGBDUVSJOH t 4BXNJMMJOH &RVJQNFOU t -PH $BSSJBHFT t 3FTBXT t .VMUJTBXT BOE CPBSE FEHFST t "VUPNBUJD 4PSUFST BOE 4UBDLFST t $PNQMFUF UVSOLFZ QSPKFDUT
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
From major start ups to retro ďŹ ts contact: AE Gibson & Sons Ph: 02 6559 4001 E: info@aegibsonman.com.au www.aegibsonman.com.au
3
In the news www.timberbiz.com.au
I n c o r p o r a t i n g A U S T R A L A S I A N F O R E S T L O G G E R & S AW M I L L E R
SEPTEMBER 2018 Issue 6 Vol. 27 Established 1991 News ForestTECH Harvesters Simulators Bio Green Triangle Awards Guest Columnist Kilns ClassiďŹ eds
3-17 19 20-23 24-30 31-32 33 34 35 36-39
Publisher and Chief Executive: Hartley Higgins General Manager: John Turner Editor: John Hudswell j.hudswell@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide OfďŹ ce (08) 8369 9512 Advertising: Gavin de Almeida g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide OfďŹ ce (08) 8369 9517 Production: Peter Frezzini & NEM Creative Team Trader classiďŹ ed: g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au Adelaide OfďŹ ce (08) 8369 9517 Subscriptions: subs@forestsandtimber.com.au Adelaide OfďŹ ce (08) 8369 9522 Subcription rates One-year (8 editions) $55 Two-years (16 editions) $95 Accounts: Adelaide OfďŹ ce (08) 8369 9555 Postal Address: 630 Regency Road, Broadview South Australia 5083 Phone: (08) 8369 9555 Fax: (08) 8369 9501 Melbourne OfďŹ ce: Suite 2262, 442 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122 Phone: (03) 9810 3262 Website www.timberbiz.com.au Printed by Lane Print, Adelaide, SA Conditions The opinions expressed in Australian Forests & Timber News are not necessarily the opinions of or endorsed by the editor or publisher unless otherwise stated. All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. All material in Australian Forests & Timber News copyright Š Ryan Media. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic, or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, the published will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.
MEDIA
INDEPENDENT & AUSTRALIAN OWNED
4
To know the future, look at the past Continued from Page 3
Foundation, Peter Garret, announced his vision for a huge, cross-border park stretching from Strathmerton in the east downstream to Echuca. In April 2005 the Victorian Environment Assessment Council began an inquiry into the Victorian red gum forests, a study which resulted in most Victorian red gum forests being put into national parks. The Victorian red gum timber industry was shut down with the exception of one mill, Arburthnots at Koondrook, which then had to rely heavily on trees sourced from New South Wales forests. The green organisations began a campaign to have the New South Wales forests locked up too. We were visited by a bunch of un-elected protesters who ignored “stopâ€? and “no entryâ€? VLJQV GHÂżQLWHO\ GLG QRW VLJQ the site induction book, went through the gates we had up and proceeded to tie our equipment up. They anchored cables to our machinery extending 30 feet up to a platform on which a man was standing. A sign on the cable said “lifelineâ€? and it was arranged so that if we moved our machine the man would fall. There was a strong temptation to test the theory. Responsibility chain This was an OH&S issue so my wife rang WorkCover. They would not act unless there was an accident. We called the police who wouldn’t DFW XQOHVV QRWLÂżHG E\ )RUHVWU\
Forestry couldn’t act unless QRWLÂżHG E\ *RYHUQPHQW %XW we could be held accountable if they hurt themselves. Ten days and $100,000 of taxpayers’ money later the police did remove them. They were charged with trespass but were acquitted on a technicality. A marine biologist, Walter Stark, writing about a similar situation summed it up nicely: “Environmentalism has UHGHÂżQHG WKH IXQGDPHQWDO concept of being a stakeholder. Despite having nothing invested and with no risk to themselves, environmental non-government organisations [NGOs] have managed to claim the status of stakeholders in remote matters and be accorded an equal voice to those whose entire lives, livelihoods and assets are being DŕľľHFWHG ´ The government responded by carrying out an Environmental Impact study which found that the forest and its various inhabitants were in no danger.
transparentâ€? meant truthful and honest so, believing them, I raised these people up onto a pedestal believing this would EH WKH FDVH %XW VDGO\ RYHU D period of time we were given a lesson in politics. The NRC arrived while we were in the grip of a 15 year drought. It was severe though no worse than other droughts the country had already faced. The NRC were clearly WHUULÂżHG RI FOLPDWH FKDQJH They included more frequent droughts in their computer modelling, giving them the answer government wanted to hear – the timber industry was unsustainable. Nathan Rees, then Premier of New South Wales, on advice from the NRC, claimed that the trees were being threatened by what became known as the Millenium drought. It was the only reason he gave for his decision. “Already under threat from attack from the drought and climate change, this habitat is fast approaching a tipping point where we risk losing it forever,â€? his press release said. Green pressure Dr John Williams, the %XW LQ SROLWLFV HQWHUHG NRC chair, claimed in the Fiour towns and our lives. The nal Assessment Report that: government in Sydney, gave in Âł:LWKRXW Ă€RRGLQJ WKH UHG to continuing Green pressure gum forests can’t regenerate and sent the Natural Resourc- and support the ecology and es Commission to inspect and forestry industries which depend on them. The impacts report on our industry. OPEN and TRANSPAR- on communities, land use and ENT were the words they used the natural environment are ZKHQ ZH ÂżUVW PHW WKHP RQ predicted to get more severe the banks of the Murray near under climate change.â€? A member of their advisory Mathoura. Well, to me, “open and panel was so sure of this threat
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
that he bet one sawmill owner WKH IRUHVW ZRXOG QHYHU Ă€RRG again. Just a year later he was forced to cough up for a carton of Crown Lager! And who can remember this, and I quote from Tim Flannery back in 2007: “Even the rain that falls isn’t actually JRLQJ WR ÂżOO RXU GDPV DQG ULYHU systems.â€? Well the rain did come. The ULYHUV GLG Ă€RRG $QG WKH GDPV GLG ÂżOO LQ VSHFWDFXODU IDVKLRQ Since 2010 the Murray forHVWV KDYH Ă€RRGHG ÂżYH WLPHV — 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and the biggest of all 2016. )LYH ELJ Ă€RRGV LQ VHYHQ \HDUV DQG DUH RŕľśFLDOO\ the wettest two consecutive years on record for southeastern Australia. A check of WKH %XUHDX RI 0HWHRURORJ\ and old newspapers shows that big droughts have always EHHQ IROORZHG E\ PDMRU Ă€RRGV DQG LWÂśV KDUG WR ÂżQG DQ\ SURRI that we are facing any unusual change in weather patterns.
More assumptions The NRC began its inquiry by assuming that the forests were ancient. Dr Williams, the environment minister Frank Sartor and others made reference to 300 year old gums. FRANK SARTOR: “These forests have been here for generations with many trees over 300 years old.� KRISTINA KENEALLY: “River Red Gums can grow to over 1,000 years and these trees have been alive since Continued on Page 6 www.timberbiz.com.au
ENSIGN LOG FORKS AND LOG GRAPPLES CAN BE CUSTOM MADE TO SUIT CUSTOMERS REQUIREMENTS. CONTACT US TO DEVELOP A CUSTOMISED SOLUTION THAT WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS.
The
Contractor’s Choice. for Harvester Bars & Sprockets
GB FORESTRY EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF ENSIGN GRAPPLES & LOG FORKS
GA Forestry Accessories now stock and supply, GB .404” & 3/4” harvester bars, drive sprockets and harvesting equipment. Contact your GA Forestry Rep today! GB harvester bar mounts to suit: WOODSMAN PRO, WARATAH, LOG MAX, TIGERCAT, TIMBCO, TIMBERLINE, UNICON, KETO, HULTDINGS, ROSIN, SATCO, SOUTHSTAR and more.
GA Forestry are proud to be exclusive distributors of GB harvester products in Australia.
For product and sales enquiries contact GB Forestry P: 03 8353 6655 E: office@gbforestry.com.au www.gbforestry.com.au
Trent Vaughan Mob +61 414 995 431 OFFICE: 1300 363 027 New Zealand Customers please call
P: +64 7 348 1286
In the news
To know the future, look at the past Continued from Page 4
before European settlement. I am advised that some of them are 300 years old.� %2% &$55 ³/RRN DURXQG DQG EH ¿OOHG ZLWK ZRQGHU RI being in ancient Australia.� The trouble with all of this is that no one took the time to check our history. A map, believed to have been drawn by the surveyor Thomas Townsend in 1848, shows plenty of trees on ground QHYHU ÀRRGHG E\ WKH 0XUUD\ EXW YHU\ IHZ RQ WKH ÀRRGSODLQ where they are supposed to exist. The trees on the high ground are mostly box. The
land where the red gums were supposed to be is mostly plains, reedbeds and sandhills. This is why my people and others took it up as settlement leases. Townsend’s map was drawn just six years after white settlement. The explorer Charles Sturt in 1838 saw much the same, ZULWLQJ WKDW ³0DQ\ ¿QH VWDtions might indeed be formed even to the junction of the Delangen.� His Delangen is today’s Edward river, right in the heart of WKH PRGHUQ %DUPDK 0LOOHZD forest. The squatter Edward
GTTIA AWARD DINNER To celebrate the industry and the winners of the Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards 2018, it is our pleasure to invite you along to the Awards Dinner.
Friday October 26 2018 6.00pm until late Full menu with formal awards ceremony. $65 per head (tables of eight or ten) & single tickets available Cash bar – eftpos available
TICKETS ON SALE NOW The Barn 747 Glenelg River Road, Mount Gambier
With M.C Tommy Little
Gold Sponsors 2018
& Penola Plantations
26 October, 2018
6
Tickets can be booked online www.gttia.com or email prue@publicimpressions.co.nz
Curr certainly saw some red gums but he did not call them a forest. He wrote in his book Recollections of Squatting in Victoria about big grassy plains and extensive reedbeds along the Murray but not forests.
Firestick farming 7KH ¿UVW IRUHVWHU LQ FKDUJH of these forests, John Manton, said there were only ten mature red gums to the acre LQ %XW WKHUH ZHUH PLOlions of young trees, most of them germinated by the great ÀRRG RI :KLFK OHDGV WR WKH TXHVWLRQ LI ELJ ÀRRGV germinate masses of red gums (and many of us have seen that happen) why did early explorers not see them? Well, Sturt, Curr, Townsend and others saw only about ten trees to the acre. Sturt and Curr also saw evidence of Aboriginal burning in the area. Curr was the ¿UVW SHUVRQ WR ZULWH DERXW ¿UHstick farming. These issues were raised with the NRC but were ignored. The NRC also got its sums wrong when it used a spreadsheet to predict future quantities of quota sawlogs – by a large percentage. They eventually admitted this and revised WKHLU ¿JXUHV %XW QRW XQWLO WKH Government had announced the national park. Needless to say there was no press release. When wrong forecasts, resulting in multi-million dollar losses are made in private
industry, heads usually roll. Protocols are put in place to ensure bad decisions are not repeated. Not so in Government organisations it seems. Like many other towns in other parts of the nation, those in our region have been crippled by having our working forests converted to a national park. :KHQ %RE &DUU DQQRXQFHG KLV ¿UVW QDWLRQDO SDUN KH WROG the people of Coolah in the central west of the state that 30,000 tourists would replace their sawmill. Never happened. Years later he told the peoSOH RI %DOUDQDOG WKH\ FRXOG expect 50,000 tourists a year visiting Yanga National Park. %XW %REœV EXVK ZDONLQJ WUHH hugging mates let him down again. And it’s the town, not Carr, that’s paying the price. At the NRC community forum held in Mathoura Dr John Williams belittled our timber industry, saying it only contributed one per cent of the region’s economy. Ask any football coach and he will tell you it’s the one percenters that count. They win games and eventually win premierships. Apart from Dr Williams and his crew grossly underestimating the real income and the timber volume, he ignored that timber is a primary industry. Primary industries supply raw materials to secondary industries, sometimes in distant regions, so it contributes to
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
wealth creation in other places too.
Chain reaction Every sawmill has a string of other businesses which depend on it. Closing a mill can VHW R྾ D FKDLQ UHDFWLRQ DQG you soon learn that there is a lot more than one percent involved. We are now seeing that in towns like Mathoura, DeniOLTXLQ DQG %DUKDP Not long after the national park opened we in Mathoura lost our only supermarket, a FDIH EDNHU\ D %HG DQG %UHDNfast, and a pub. The supermarket re-opened then closed again. The cafe re-opened twice and late last month closed again. The pub re-opened but has changed hands three times in about six years. Now a brave young couple have opened a general store and are trying to hang on. My point is that you can’t take a core industry away from a town and expect it to survive. It just doesn’t happen. We are also struggling to keep our football team (which, incidentally, is named the Timbercutters) — so hanging on to our identity is a battle. The Mathoura Visitor Centre has recorded a drop from 31,000 to 22,000 visits a year. The Newsagency/Hardware store has lost 30 per cent of business since we were told the tourists would bring prosperity with them. Spare a thought too for the www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news Aboriginal timber cutters. Cummeragunja is an Aboriginal settlement on the New South Wales side of the MurUD\ QHDU %DUPDK Until the closing of the forest a group of young men from the settlement were running a YLDEOH ¿UHZRRG EXVLQHVV XVLQJ forest residue from thinning and harvesting operations. They often worked beside us in the Millewa forest. Every now and then I run into Kenny Atkinson who managed the business. “Crumpy, we’ve got to get our bush back,” he tells me. His boys are out of work and they need their dignity back. It doesn’t matter whether you’re black, brindle or white, the national park decision has D൵HFWHG XV DOO The big question though is, why do we need a national park? These are not ancient forests. They are not old growth. They were not here when the ¿UVW ZKLWH PHQ VDZ WKH DUHD They were not here when my family settled at Mathoura 150 years ago. Most of the trees JUHZ DIWHU WKH UHFRUG ÀRRG RI 1870 and were managed by foresters until they were big enough to harvest. They have survived previous droughts just as bad as the recent one — perhaps worse — which caused all the panic. Now that they have had a good drink the trees have recovered again. It does not take a National Park sign to make them grow. It just takes good management.
The decision to create the national park had nothing to do with the environment and everything to do with politicians protecting their jobs. Nathan Rees declared the National Park the day before he lost his job as state premier. The Greens’ Ian Cohen told The Australian newspaper that Labor would come begging for Green preferences. “If they don’t deliver on these forests in a sustainable way, they can go to hell,” he said. The Minister for Environment, Frank Sartor, speaking at an industry meeting in Deniliquin, told us we needed a lesson in politics: “The Greens hold 15 per cent of the vote. If we are to stay in power, we must hold their preference to maintain city seats. They want D VLJQL¿FDQW 1DWLRQDO 3DUN DQG they want it in red gum,” he told us. He later denied saying this but I was there and I clearly heard what he said and I sometimes wonder why he was called “the honourable Frank Sartor”. What social, economic and ecological balance can be achieved by a bunch of selfserving politicians protecting WKHLU EDFNVLGHV" %XW WKDW¶V what we got. Propping up marginal city seats and losing our core industry. There is a lot of documented history and heritage in those forests so I would like to share with you one of my favourite stories which shows how crucially important this industry
SPECIAL SC S COMPOUND C T TYRE TRACKS T
YEAR 5WARRANTY www.timberbiz.com.au
SB
STEEL S BELTED
was and highlights where we are heading now. There was DQ ROG WLPHU LQ WKH %DUPDK IRUest, now a Victorian national park just across the Murray. +H ZHQW R൵ WR HQOLVW IRU :RUOG War 2. He passed the medical but was sent home. “No, you’re a sleeper cutter. :H FDQ WUDLQ ¶HP WR ¿JKW EXW we can’t train ’em to cut sleepers,” he was told. Sleepers were vital for maintaining safe railways which carried troops and equipment in wartime. The only reason given by the previous Government for creating the national park was that the trees were drought stressed. They had nothing else because the forests had been well cared for. Nature took care of the drought and now that they’ve had a good drink the trees are back to doing what trees do — growing again. So they will need thinning but it needs to be thinning of the right kind. We now have a thinning trial being carried out by National Parks – even though we have been thinning these forests and documenting the results for 130 years. Sorry “Ecological” thinning trial – I missed that word; that’s the new word that apparently helps our forests grow thicker and better producing more habitat. If only our 1st forester John Manton, the man who introduced the practice of thinning these forests had thought of it we might not be in the predicament we are in today – but I
doubt it very much. The budget for trial thinning 400 hectares is 1.5 million dollars – paid for by taxpayers. They have also been allocated $400,000 a year over the next ¿YH \HDUV WR PRQLWRU WKH UHsults of this trial. Not far away in Koondrook Perricoota state forest – 400 hectares of the same river red gums are thinned each year. The return to the state through royalties over the last 4 years is around $2.5 million annually. The national parks trial has been a disaster – maybe deliberately done to end up with a bad result. This is what John Manton KDG WR VD\ DERXW WKH EHQH¿WV RI thinning on his report to government more than 120 years ago. I may state that red gum possesses a remarkable aptitude for reproduction and I have no hesitation in stating that where there was one young tree in 1875,when I took charge of these forest reserves, there are now twenty and all that is required to make these reserves practically inexhaustible is the inexpensive work of thinning.
Check the history So, before governments send people down to destroy more of our towns, our lives and livelihoods for a few inner city green votes, please urge them to take the time to check your history and heritage so they can earn that word “honourable” in their title. Finally, I would like to share
with you the ultimate insult to a town which helped grow its own forest and created its own warmth. It is also an example of bureaucracy gone mad. Recently people who bought SHUPLWV WR FROOHFW ¿UHZRRG from the National Park from 2010 to 2013 were told by the National Parks and Wildlife Service that they were eligible for the $1.25 million “Stay Warm, Stay Comfortable” program. This is supposed to help around 2,000 households in regional New South Wales WR WUDQVLWLRQ IURP ¿UHZRRG for home heating to what the Government sees as healthier and more sustainable energy. I ask you to consider what difference the hand-out (distributed by taxpayer-funded bureaucrats) would make to their winter comfort. It included: FRPSDFW ÀXRUHVFHQW OLJKW globes, 2 fabric-covered door snakes (draught excluders), 2 window door seals, 1 thermometer, 1 shower timer, 2 hot water bottles, 1 timer isolation switch, 3/86 WKH %LJ 3UL]H ± D pamphlet lecturing them on the health risks of wood smoke. And there is a hint that you might qualify for assistance to insulate part of your home. Isn’t that what the “pink batts” scheme was supposed WR ¿[" %HZDUH RI *RYHUQPHQWV trying to be seen doing something when in reality nothing will replace what we previously had.
SPECIALISED TYRES FOR FORESTRY APPLICATIONS
T TYRE CHAIN
Switch to Alliance forestry tyres
Call Tyres4U
alliancetyres.com.au 1800 788 688 Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
7
In the news
New national park proposals would decimate regional communities
D
raft proposals by the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) to create an extensive suite of new national parks in Victoria’s west have been met with disbelief, disappointment and anger by many in the forestry and timber industry. Tim Johnston, Victorian Association of Forest Industries’ &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2ŕľśFHU VDLG the proposals would severely impact local businesses and communities. The Australian Forest Contractors Association has also weighed in saying that the proSRVDO Ă€HZ LQ WKH IDFH RI ZKDW the government had previously promised. would have negative impacts on local businesses and communities. “These proposals to cre-
ate new national parks in the Wombat, Wellsford and Pyrenees Ranges State forests will severely impact the local harvesters and processors that rely on the high quality timber sourced from these forestsâ€?, said Tim. “These forests are extensively used by local communities for a wide range of activities, including sustainable timber KDUYHVWLQJ DQG ÂżUHZRRG FROlecting. In addition, VEAC has proposed converting 28% of Mt Cole State forest to national park or nature reserves. “Currently in the Mount Cole State forest, approximately 8 hectares sustainably harvested and regrown annually. It is unclear what impact this draft proposal will have,â€? he said. “This timber is harvested and processed by community
Tough, Professional Tools Australia-wide delivery!
Cant & Peavey Hooks
Logrite Cant & Peavey hooks Light but very strong Made in USA 42� - $245, 60� - $300. Log stand to suit - $85
Haglof Tree Calipers Strong, lightweight Swedish made aluminium tree calipers 40cm-$165, 50cm-$170 65cm-$180, 80cm-$220 102cm-$280 127cm-$310
Spencer Logging Tapes Clinometers/Height Meters Tough US made logging tapes 15m - $110, 25m - $130 30m + diameter - $154
Diameter/Girth Tapes /DUJH UDQJH RI VWHHO ÂżEUHJODVV diameter tapes from $22
Tree Planting Equipment
Suunto Tandem Nikon Compass/Clino Forestry Pro $320 $580 Also stock Haglof Vertex IV/ Laser & Haglof CI/ECII
Pro-Pruner Swedish made Pottiputki tree planters Models 45/55/63/75 Kidney trays, planting belts, spades & Hamilton planters
Tel: 02 9417 7751 Fax: 02 9417 7426
8
New Zealand made lopper designed for lift pruning of pine & eucalypts. Up to 65mm cut - $260 Also Bahco, Felco & Barnel
Over 1600 products at
www.forestrytools.com.au or call for our 2016 catalogue
PO Box 870 Willoughby NSW 2068
businesses and removing this supply will severely impact livelihoods. Furthermore, creating a national park will restrict a range of recreational activities, such as dog walking DQG Rŕľľ URDG GULYLQJ ´ “The timber and forestry industry is invested in improving forest health. The current approach to forest management has been successful at maintaining environmental and social value of the forest and is supported by local residents,â€? he said. VAFI has called on VEAC Ĺś Tim Johnston, Victorian to undertake a comprehensive Association of Forest socio-economic assessment of Industries’ Chief Executive Ĺś Stacey Gardiner, General these proposals and revise or OfďŹ cer. Manager of AFCA. remove them accordingly beIRUH PDNLQJ ÂżQDO UHFRPPHQdations, to minimise detrimen- working regional businesses; culture, Jaala Pulford, made a their livelihoods now at stakeâ€?. commitment to ‘Support the WDO HŕľľHFWV RQ FRPPXQLWLHV Currently, the uncertainty sustainable management of “VEAC has the opportunity to make genuinely progressive for this harvest season has al- Australia’s native forests, and recommendations that balance ready had a negative impact through this, providing timber forest health with a sustainable from government’s inaction resources for industry while source of an essential, eco- with employees having to be protecting high value native nomical, low-carbon product SXW Rŕľľ UHVXOWLQJ LQ WKH ORVV RI forests’. “This commitment was for construction and techno- KLJKO\ VNLOOHG VWDŕľľ DQG ÂżQDQwelcomed, however, it appears logical innovation. I hope the cial challenges for businesses. “If a ban on native harvest- now that Government wasn’t members of VEAC will consider these issues before mak- ing is forced onto forestry serious about this and has LQJ ÂżQDO UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV LQ contracting businesses they turned its back on hard workhave no-where else to go, will ing regional businesses,â€? Sta2019,â€? Tim said. The Australian Forest Con- EH IDFHG ZLWK VHULRXV ÂżQDQFLDO cey added. “Government must work tractors Association (AFCA) burdens after years of investwith us to strike a balholds grave concerns between future for the future of Vic“VAFI has called on VEAC to ance resource supply and torian forestry contracting businesses, undertake a comprehensive protecting environvalues, not close and their employees, socio-economic assessment ment an industry down that following suggestions the Victorian Governof these proposals and revise supports regional comand jobs.â€? ment plans to ban their or remove them accordingly munities AFCA is calling for operations in Victorian long term certainty, for native forests over the before making ďŹ nal government to work coming decade. recommendationsâ€? with industry on a ho“Forestry contractlistic long-term plan ing businesses have already faced uncertainty with ment and their employees will with a clear resource outlook the lack of government deci- be out of work. This will have for both native and plantation. sion around harvesting plans far reaching and devastating This will allow business to for the season already upon impacts on regional communi- make long term investments, continue our proven history us,â€? said Stacey Gardiner, ties,â€? Stacey said. In 2017, as part of a Minis- of innovation and ensure we General Manager of AFCA. “Now, it appears things are set terial Forestry Statement, the retain a skilled workforce supto get far worse for these hard- Victorian Minister for Agri- porting regional Victoria.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news
OneFortyOne expansion continues with purchase of Nelson Forests
O
neFortyOne (OFO) has received confirmation that the Overseas Investment Office has approved its purchase of Nelson Forests with the completion date for the purchase on 4 September. Nelson Forests, currently owned by investment funds advised by Global Forest Partners LP, is a verticallyintegrated plantation and sawmill business in the Nelson Tasman and Marlborough regions of New Zealand. “We are very pleased that approval has been granted by OIO. The decision is important, providing certainty for the Nelson Forests’ team, customers, the region and the broader NZ forest
industry,� said OFO’s Chief Executive Officer Linda Sewell. “We look forward to being a strong contributor to the region.�
“The acquisition ďŹ ts nicely with the balance of OFO’s assets in the Green Triangleâ€? Nelson Forests is a recognised leader in forest management and has been broadly used as the benchmark for performance in the New Zealand industry. “The acquisition fits nicely with the balance of OFO’s
assets in the Green Triangle,� said Ms Sewell. Campbell Global, Gresham Partners and MinterEllisonRuddWatts were advisory partners to OFO on the transaction. OFO was formed in 2012 following the acquisition of a 105-year lease of 93,000 hectares of plantation assets from the South Australian Government. OFO’s name comes from the 141st meridian line at the border of South Australia and Victoria and passing through OFO’s plantation estate. Since commencing its operations OFO has expanded its estate, increased the number of trees planted and grown its domestic processing and sales market by more
Ĺś OFO’s Chief Executive OfďŹ cer Linda Sewell.
than 45 percent. In January 2018, OFO purchased Carter Holt Harvey’s Jubilee Highway sawmill in Mt Gambier, South Australia and Woodchip operations at Portland,
Victoria. In just five years, OFO has become an established industry player within Australia with a strong track record of industry and community partnerships.
Senator Colbeck back in forestry It’s almost a case of deja vous ‌ the new Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources is Richard Colbeck, who assumes Federal Government responsibility for forest industries. Senator Colbeck takes over from Anne Ruston, who takes up a new role as Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific. Senator Ruston was a keen supporter of the forestry and timber industry and an exceptionally strong advocate. “This latest ministerial reshuffle means a changing of the guard for Federal Government forestry responsibility, very close to the delivery of the National Forest Industries Plan,â€? said Ross Hampton, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Forest Products Association.
“I sincerely thank Assistant Minister Ruston for her enthusiasm for our industries demonstrated over the past three years and wish her well in her new role,� Mr Hampton said. “I welcome back Assistant Minister Colbeck who has previously served as a Parliamentary Secretary and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for forestry and who initiated the development of the Government’s National Plan. “Senator Colbeck is well acquainted with the challenges faced by our industries and the need to provide the policy settings to allow our industries, which employ some 120,000 people across the full value chain, to thrive into the future. “I will meet with our new Minister as soon as practical to ensure the smooth delivery of the National Plan,� Mr Hampton concluded.
From Forest to Factory % o # $!
! " & " #" ! % !" % "$ ! % " % #
The timber industry’s most comprehensive site supplies company www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
signet.net.au
13 7446 9
In the news
Ĺś Eucalyptus nitens seedlings being grown at Somerset, west of Burnie. The coastal location provides optimum growing conditions at low energy cost.
Showcasing the latest forestry research from innovative collaboration
F
rom germplasm to commercial buildings – the latest research supporting innovation in the forest industry across the entire supply chain will be presented to stakeholders during a roadshow across Tasmania in October. The research is the work of postdoctoral fellows and PhD candidates from the Australian Research Council (ARC) Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Forest Value, based in Tasmania. The roadshow, which runs from October 22-26, is an opportunity for the researchers to share the latest information with industry and partner stakeholders. The roadshow will visit the study sites of all the students and postdocs at the centre, including Permanent Timber Production Zone land in the Styx and Norse Skog pine plantations in southwest Tasmania, along with the Timberlink sawmill DW %HOO %D\ DQG 7D $QQ RSHUDtions in Smithton, both in the state’s north. The Director of the ARC Centre for Forest Value, Pro10
fessor Mark Hunt, said the roadshow is a great opportunity for broader engagement with stakeholders. “The roadshow allows our industry and partner stakeKROGHUV WR JHW RXW LQ WKH ÂżHOG with our students and get a very hands-on update as to how the research is tracking,â€? said Professor Hunt. “They also have the opportunity to see closely some of the technology our students are using in their projects,â€? he said. PhD candidate Mihai Neagoe is one of the students whose research will be highlighted during the roadshow next month. Mr Neagoe is developing an ‘app’, or online tool, WR LPSURYH WUDŕľśF Ă€RZ LVVXHV DW WKH %XUQLH SRUW LQ 7DVPDnia’s northwest. Improvement would not only reduce supply FKDLQ FRVWV EXW EHQHÂżW VRFLHW\ by addressing environmental issues caused by port congestion. Another PhD candidate MiFKHOOH %DODVVR LV LQYHVWLJDWLQJ non-destructive techniques to sort plantation hardwood logs
Ĺś A thinned and pruned plantation at Lyell in northeast
HXFDO\SWV WR FKDUDFWHUL]H Tasmania. Centre staff discussing stand silviculture for product their wood properties and pre- development with industry partners on a previous roadshow. dict wood quality. The results of her work should ensure ORJV JR LQWR WKHLU PRVW SUR¿Wable and appropriate product stream. There will also be demonstrations from several researchers utilising sensor technology and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), or drones. The Centre for Forest Value (CFV) is based in the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Tasmania. The $14-million Centre was established in January 2016 and is heavily industry focussed. There is an opportunity for interested parties across the sector to learn about the latest developments in research, at a presentation open to the public on Tuesday the 23rd of October. The presentation will take place at the UTAS Inveresk campus from 2:30 pm. Afternoon tea will be provided. For more information head to the CFV website: http://www.utas.edu.au/arcforest-value/news-and-outputs
Ĺś Professor Mark Hunt.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
632E SKIDDER
CONFIDENCE BY DESIGN. T H E MOST F UE L EFFICIENT S KIDDER EVER B UI LT. Tigercat is setting new productivity standards for timber extraction with the 632E skidder – the most powerful, fuel efficient and productive four-wheel skidder Tigercat has ever built. Equipped with the largest grapple, a higher capacity Tigercat rear axle, stronger driveline components and an improved hydraulic system, the 632E boosts productivity and performance to new heights. Contact Onetrak today to learn more about the Tigercat 632E skidder.
1300 727 520
WWW.ONETRAK.COM.AU
www.tigercat.com
In the news
RFAs meet or exceed environmental objectives In an exclusive piece for Australian Forests & Timber News, Greg McCormack, Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Chairman, talks about the intrinsic value of Regional Forest Agreements; the ground given to ensure some form of industry stability; and the neverending efforts of extreme environmentalists to destroy the nation’s sustainable hardwood industry and those critical RFAs.
R
egional Forest Agreements (RFAs) have been back in the news recently with an independent review commissioned for the NSW and Federal Governments concluding what we in the industry have known all along, that NSW RFAs are meeting or exceeding their environmental objectives. This, despite all the attacks from dishonest sections of the environmental lobby which claim the RFA
torian and Federal Governments extended three agreements covering regions in Victoria’s north-east until 2020, bringing them into line with other agreements across the State. In Tasmania, agreements were finalised last year, while in NSW and Western Australia, we expect decisions on extensions will be made soon. RFAs govern where and how forestry operations can take place in our native forests. Ŷ Greg McCormack, AFPA Chairman.
system is failing to protect the environment. An examination of the evidence suggests nothing could be further from the truth. The independent review of the NSW RFAs found the agreements are meeting all environmental objectives and affirmed the need for their long-term extension. Earlier this year, the Vic-
Balancing act They aim to balance the social, economic and environmental needs of forests. They are an important reconciliation of sustainable production of forest products, socio economic outcomes for regional communities and environmental targets. However, the trend over the past couple of decades is that while forest industries have had to make more
than their fair share of concessions on environmental demands (in NSW, for example, the signing of the state’s three RFAs between 1999 and 2001 resulted in almost 2 million additional hectares of public forest transferred to national parks and reserves), extreme environmental groups have continually moved the goalposts and are hellbent on destroying the sustainable hardwood industry, and dismantling the RFA framework. There are some very important facts about RFAs which show that since they were first introduced, industry has given considerable ground in the interests of striking the right balance for forests. RFAs were developed against a framework of balancing socio economic, environmental and the government objective of reserving 15 per cent of the pre-European forest eco- systems by
type. This was known as the CAR criteria which stands for Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative reserves. Many ecosystems have been reserved well in excess of this target. Since the early 1990s and the very first RFAs, over 13.6 million hectares have been added to Australia’s forest conservation reserve system, while since 1996 the number of hardwood sawmills has fallen from more than 800 to around 200. Today, about 70 per cent of Australia’s 123 million hectares of native forest is unavailable or unsuitable for forestry operations. Furthermore, only 100,000 hectares – or 0.06 per cent – 6 trees in every 10,000 of Australia’s native forests is sustainably harvested for timber annually. All that area is regenerated after harvest.
The real threat Contrary to what some
air flow problems? Unlike others, Smithco’s 4-, 6-, 8-, and 12-bladed propellers are designed and manufactured exclusively for the lumber industry. It’s all we do. This focus allows us to provide unsurpassed customer service and technical expertise. We’re the only company in the world who can make that claim. Smithco. Problem solved.
503-295-6590 800-764-8456 U.S. www.smithcomfg.com sales@smithcomfg.com
12
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news might say, native timber harvesting has not been a major threat factor in the extinction of any Australian mammal since European settlement. %XVKILUHV IHUDO DQLPDOV and disease pose the biggest dangers to Australia’s threatened species and ecosystems. The native timber industry is at a point where it cannot sustain any further reduction in production forest. The thing that disappoints me most, though, is that despite the considerable ground – literally - conceded by industry in the interest of some long-term certainty, the more extreme environmentalists are still not satisfied. It’s apparent they will not rest until native forestry is destroyed. More importantly, though, policy-makers need to recognise the ground we have given as industries and not lock up any more forests.
Industry needs certainty While this latest round of Victorian RFAs renewals for East Gippsland, Central Highlands and North-East
have been extended until 2020, the real issue is what happens after that. Industry needs certainty that no more forest will be locked up and extensions for a further 20 years is what is needed. The Tasmanian RFA was extended for a further 20 years last year and included considerations for climate change, which the industry supported. Campaigners and soft sympathisers for the proposed Great Forest National Park in Victoria’s Central Highlands seem to not understand the devastating impact their demands would have on regional jobs. The NSW review also strengthens the case that RFAs are doing their job in protecting forest values and the environment.
No true reflection However, the often-inflated credence these campaigners get in the media doesn’t reflect community opinion, even in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. A Reachtel poll commissioned by the Australian Forest Products
Association and Victorian Association of Forest Industries found that only 2.5 per cent of those voting at the %DWPDQ E\ HOHFWLRQ HDUOLHU this year saw a new national park as the most important issue in determining who they’d vote for. The Victorian Labor Party particularly should note this in the leadup to the November 2018 State election and stick to focusing on core issues like health and education, not pander to fringe issues in an attempt to stem the flow of votes from to their Greens rivals in inner city seats. The other hypocrisy is that many of those who fight against the native timber industry, love the products it produces. Let’s just say, if environmentalists won and forced an end to sustainable native timber harvesting in Australia, would that stop people buying timber products? I strongly doubt it. Australia imports $5.5 billion in wood products from overseas, a lot of which comes from countries with poor environmental re-
Ĺś Sustainable harvesting regimes.
cords. If our industry ended, demand wouldn’t stop, imports would only increase. We are far better running a sustainable industry here in Australia, rather than contribute further to unsustainable harvesting of overseas forests. The ability to do that lies within the RFA framework. Forest industries have come to the party on sustainably managing our native forests and believe RFAs today balance the social, economic and environmen-
tal value of forests. And, if the joint statement between the NSW and Federal Governments on the review into RFAs in NSW is anything to go by, RFAs are here to stay for the long term. With demand for quality timber products only likely to increase into the future, it’s in Australia’s and the rest of the world’s interest that we have a strong and sustainable native timber industry backed up by reasonable RFAs of at least 20 years duration.
From fighting fires to representing Australia: Forestry Corp staff in Invictus Games
T
aree Forestry Corporation employee Matt Model will soon be VZDSSLQJ KLV ÂżUHÂżJKWLQJ NLW for an Australian uniform in the 2018 Invictus Games. The Invictus Games is an international sporting event initiated by Prince Harry to support the recovery of wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and their associated veterans. Mr Model will compete in indoor rowing and athletics. “I’m excited and proud to represent my country—it’s not something that everyone gets a chance to do,â€? Mr Model said. “I’m really looking forward to getting to Sydney and joining the squad again. I’ll have my wife and twin 11 year-old boys there supporting me and I’m proud to be a role model for my family.â€? Mr Model is employed as a Forest Technician with Forestry Corporation of NSW – working to help manage
www.timberbiz.com.au
timber supply from the State’s native forests as well as ensuring the forests remain healthy. 7KH FXUUHQW ÂżUH VHDVRQ KDV made the training program a challenge, but not impossible, said Mr Model. Âł,WÂśV EHHQ KDUG WR ÂżW WKH training in, particularly with D UHFHQW ZHHN RI ÂżUHÂżJKWLQJ in Grafton, but somehow I’ve PDQDJHG WR ÂżQG WKH WLPH DQG energy. Otherwise my work in Forestry Corp complements my training. I like being on my feet and the active work helps me with recovery.â€? Mr Model joined Forestry Corporation after active service with the Australian Army. +H ZDV LQMXUHG IURP D VLJQLÂżcant fall during operations to catch former Timorese rebel leader Alfredo Reinado. “During my transition into Forestry Corporation I was made feel very welcome and it has been nothing but a supportive environment. “My journey to the Invictus
Games has been easier thanks to the great support from my family, community and forestry colleagues.�
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
Mr Model will join 72 other athletes in the Australian Invictus Games Squad in October.
FOLS Skills Verification Program
Your portfolio of skills For Operators FOLS veriďŹ es an operator has undertaken the required nationally recognised training and has kept their skills current through regular practice. For Contractors & Forest Managers A streamlined system to manage the skills of employees and improve safety in the workplace.
fols.forestworks.com.au
1800 177 001 An industry-led program managed by ForestWorks
13
In the news
LINX Cargo Care Group acquires Pedersen Group
L
INX Cargo Care LINX Cargo Care Group will of companies. Pedersen’s Group, and its sub- provide long-term stability for will enable our organisation sidiary C3 Limited, our employees and custom- to grow its services to forest has acquired Pedersen Group, ers, and the operational and owners and wood processing a market leading provider of ÂżQDQFLDO FDSDFLW\ WR DOORZ RXU businesses. In addition, Pedwood chipping and woodyard business to pursue its growth ersen’s capabilities and sermanagement services to pulp aspirations,â€? Mr Hudson said. vices complement C3’s existAnthony Jones, Group CEO LQJ FXVWRPHU RŕľľHULQJ DQG ZLOO and paper mills, and forest owners in Australia and New for LINX Cargo Care Group extend our reach to a customer and Chairman of C3 Limited EDVH LQ GLYHUVLÂżHG JOREDO PDUZealand. Pedersen Group handles said the acquisition of Ped- kets. “The synergies and strategic over 8.3 million tonnes per an- ersen Group brings a complealignment between PedQXP RI ZRRG ÂżEUH DFURVV ersen’s and C3’s forestry its operations, in the form of logs, wood chip “LINX, C3 and Pedersen EXVLQHVV LV VLJQLÂżFDQW Importantly, our company and hog fuel. The comshare a long and rich values are closely aligned, pany employs 140 people and we very much look across Australia and New history in the forestry to welcoming Zealand and has an existindustry. Our combined forward Pedersen’s talented and ing joint venture with C3 Limited, which provides expertise and experience highly skilled workforce the team,â€? Mr Jones wood yard management will provide an enhanced to said. services to customers. Pedersen Group will LINX Cargo Care customer offeringâ€? continue to operate inGroup said it was delightdependently under the ed to enter into a purchase agreement with Pedersen PHQWDU\ VHUYLFH RŕľľHULQJ WR Pedersen brand following the Group and take the next step customers, including a highly completion of the acquisition, in the evolution of both com- skilled workforce who spe- and all Pedersen employees panies, which was expected to cialise in wood chipping and will be retained by the new owner. woodyard management. be completed mid-August. “LINX, C3 and Pedersen Pedersen Group CEO About Pedersen Group Gavin Hudson said the condi- share a long and rich his(Limited) tional agreement will provide tory in the forestry industry. the Pedersen Group with an Our combined expertise and The Pedersen name has aligned and committed long- experience will provide an been synonymous with forterm owner, which will enable HQKDQFHG FXVWRPHU RŕľľHULQJ estry processing solutions for Pedersen Group to continue to further access to capital, and nearly 40 years. Just 10 years focus on providing critical ser- the opportunity to collaborate after the company was estaband collectively grow into the lished to produce roundwood vices to its customers. Âł:H DUH GHOLJKWHG WR ÂżQDO- future,â€? he said. for New Zealand Forest Prod“We are very excited to ucts, the business expanded ise this agreement with LINX Cargo Care Group. The acqui- welcome Pedersen Group to to include chip mills, supplysition of Pedersen Group by LINX Cargo Care’s group ing high quality wood chip
to New Zealand’s major pulp and paper companies. Pedersen prides itself on being one of the only company’s in the world to successfully implement and run in-line to pulp mills, and have earned the reputation as ‘operator of choice’ for innovative capital solutions. Pedersen employs more than 140 people across Australia and New Zealand and handles over 8 million tonnes RI ÂżEUH DQQXDOO\ IRU PDMRU global forestry organisations and pulp & paper mills.
About LINX Cargo Care Group LINX Cargo Care Group brings together the capabilities of four market-leading operations built on over 100 years of port and logistics experience. Together, LINX, Autocare, C3 and Geelong Port employs more than 3,800 highly-skilled professionals in 60 sites across Australia and New Zealand. The Group services a diverse range of industries right across the region, from agriculture, oil and gas, aluminium and automotive to marine, mining and resources, food and beverage and forestry. Every year, the LINX Cargo Care group of companies handles more than 11 million tonnes of bulk products, almost 2 million tonnes of steel and more than 30 million logs. They also transport more than 1 million new vehicles
Ĺś Pedersen at work at Australian Paper, Maryvale 14
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
across Australia from shore to door and process more than 500,000 vehicles for many of WKH UHJLRQœV ODUJHVW ÀHHW RSHUDtors. Owned by global alternaWLYH DVVHW PDQDJHU %URRN¿HOG and its investment partners (GIC, bcIMC, QIA), LINX Cargo Care Group has the regional capabilities and global connections to develop innovative, integrated supply chain solutions with sustainable growth opportunities. See also https://linxcc.com.au/
About C3 In New Zealand, C3 handles over 16 million tonnes of cargo annually and has more than1400 full time employees. Cargo types include: paper products, pulp, steel, wood processed products, bulk carJR LQFOXGLQJ IHUWLOL]HU JHQHUDO cargo and logs. C3 handles these products by way of its marshalling, stevedoring, warehousing, containerisation, and cartage services. The intellectual property developed by C3’s in-house IT team has been instrumental in progressing C3’s innovation. The development of data management and collection through advanced IT processes has been pursued and progressed by C3 to better understand the logistics chain and supply networks within which it operates to enhance C3’s value to them. KWWS ZZZ F FR Q]
Ĺś Anthony Jones. www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news
The Crawford logging legacy - development of levelling and zerotail-swing forest machines Passing of a logging icon
P
at Crawford, the founder of Timbco and Timberpro companies, passed away on 19 August at the age of 92, at his home in Shawano, Wisconsin. He was a stalwart in the forestry industry and was VWLOO ZRUNLQJ LQ KLV R൶FH XQWLO only recently. He will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. His innovative mind was always at work as he looked for better ways to log and haul on the challenging conditions. These early endeavours with machine design and innovation became Timbco Hydraulics, and at age 55, Pat became known as the father of this VWDWH RI WKH DUW PHFKDQL]HG leveling track feller buncher. Pat’s forest machine history really started in 1982. &UDZIRUG¶V ¿UVW PDFKLQH ZLWK four-way levelling (using four hydraulic cylinders) was built and displayed at a forestry show in West Virginia. The machine worked great on fairly steep slopes and impressed potential customers. The success of the early “engine down” with four-way levelling led to Pat making a deal with Timberjack. He kept the rights to manufacture six ma-
jor components, and Timberjack assembled and marketed the machines. During the mid-80s several machines were sold in Australia by the Timberjack dealer WR ORJJHUV OLNH -LP &UR]LHU DW Tumbarumba (NSW) and Ivan Crawford at Morwell (Victoria) when mechanisation for steep logging in pine plantations was becoming a real challenge for conventional machines. %\ WKH HDUO\ V &UDZIRUG met with Timberjack to discuss design innovations that might improve sales. Major innovations were the use of only two hydraulic cylinders for the four-way levelling system and changes in the location of the engine. This led to the development of the new “engine-up” design. Timberjack rejected the new design resulting in Timbco and Timberjack severing their relationship. From that time Timberjack continued to produce the “engine-down” machines under their banner and Timbco began production of the “engine-up” machine as an independent entity in Shawano. The “engine-up” design was a great success especially
Information. Intelligence. Insight.
production, imports, exports prices, volumes, trends housing & other markets logs and woodchips sawn wood wood panels
www.timberbiz.com.au
LQ WKH 1RUWKZHVW DQG %ULWLVK Columbia which were quickly followed by the Northeast and the Lake States markets. In 1992 following interest from local loggers Valmet Pty Ltd became the Australian & New Zealand Timbco dealer which led to numerous sales. Timbco had as many as 150 orders for machines at any one time and was building up to 250 machines a year. This sparked the interest of other companies and again started calling Pat to get involved with or buy the company. Timbco had become particularly well acquainted with Partek (Valmet) through Timbco’s sales in Australia which lead to more serious discussions. Over 430 Timbco style track machines have been sold in Australia and New Zealand. About that time, Crawford had also rekindled his interest in wheeled equipment and started to produce wheeled equipment as he thought it had a good future with the trend to cut-to-length systems. In 2000 Partek Forest (Komatsu Forest today) bought Timbco and Pat Crawford remained with the company but maintained the option to buy back the
wheeled division within two years as Partek (Valmet) already had a range of wheeled equipment. In July of 2002, Crawford bought the wheeled division and started a new company TimberPro, whose focus was on wheeled forwarders and harvesters. He was 77 years old and “retirement to me is a dirty word,” Crawford had said. “I don’t want to go to )ORULGD DQG SOD\ VKX൷H ERDUG with a bunch of old people.” TimberPro spent the early months redeveloping the wheeled equipment while the initial focus was on forwarders, but a feller-buncher/harvester soon followed. Other examples of the wheel machine developments that followed were the clam bunk, skidder and combo wheel machine combining the functions of harvesting and forwarding. In addition a variant of the forwarder was developed for the oil and gas pipeline business with great success. Pat quickly discovered Timberpro would not be viable with just wheeled equipment. To develop a dealer network Timberpro needed a complete forest equipment product line. Fortunately the “no compete”
clause in the Timbco sale contract ended on July 7 2007. At that time Pat approved the development of a new track machine which created a real excitement of a product being reborn. TimberPro had a simple list of items it wanted to achieve; Increase the hydraulic oil cooler capacity. Increase the boom reach and lift capacity. Make the machine more mechanic friendly. Provide better operator visibility. :LWK D WRWDO WHDP H൵HFW WKH TimberPro track machine took shape. In 2008 the track machine was introduced to the market. Today, TimberPro is a very viable company that offers a leading brand of track feller bunchers and wheeled harvesting equipment for the forest and pipeline industries. (www.timberpro.com) Pat had a real passion for the forest industry and really connected with the end users. He was a logging conWUDFWRU ¿UVW DQG DQ HTXLSPHQW manufacture second. Pat will be missed but his innovation will live on in the TimberPro products.
When you need to know, you need IndustryEdge
T 03 5229 2470 www.industryedge.com.au Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
15
In the news
Ĺś New Facility: 30 White Ave Mt Gambier
Komatsu Forest enlarges commitment to Green Triangle Purpose-built facility catering for expansion continues strong ties with forest industry in the region
K
omatsu Forest (KF) continues to expand its Mt Gambier operation having had strong representation since the early 90s. Since that time KF has had a long history in the Green Triangle when originally known as Valmet Logging P/L and KDYLQJ ÂżUVW VHW XS D VPDOO branch in April 1996 at 326 Commercial St West Mt GamELHU ZLWK %RE +HUULQJ DV VSDUH parts manager and Rickard
6NRF]HQ WDNLQJ FDUH RI VHUYLFH support. This was a milestone HYHQW DQG D ¿UVW IRU D PDMRU forest machine supplier having a local branch which was celebrated with a customer open day while displaying a Valmet 911 harvester and Valmet 892 forwarder. That particular 892 was purchased E\ .HYLQ %RXOW DQG LV VWLOO LQ use by the original owner today. During the 90’s many machines passed through the
doors including 892 and 860 forwarders, Timbco track machines and Ranger skidders. %\ WKH EUDQFK QHHGed larger premises so it was moved to 2 Graham Rd Mt Gambier which coincided with a change of name to Partek Forest P/L. Soon after LQ %RE DQG &DUROLQH +HUULQJ EHFDPH WKH RŕľśFLDO 3DUWHN spare parts agents operating from these premises and there was also the inclusion of an
additional serviceman by the name of Troy Foster. This was required at the time due to an increasing service demand. In 2010 KF became the Peterson dealer which required even larger premises so the branch was moved to 3 Pollard Close Mt Gambier.
New facility It soon became clear that with all the forest activity in the Green Triangle KF would
require an even larger branch so in 2016 it was decided to proceed with a purpose-built facility to cater for the expansion of the forest industry in the GT region. It was decided to locate the new branch at 30 White Ave Mt Gambier. %UHWW -RQHV 0DQDJLQJ 'Lrector of KF, says it’s a magQL¿FHQW FRPSOH[ ZLWK D ODUJH showroom, spare parts counWHU JHQHUDO RྜFHV WUDLQLQJ
Ĺś Service team: Matt Alford, Matt McPherson, Nick Sims, Stuart Thornton and Dan White
16
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
In the news
Ĺś New Komatsu 895 leaving the new Komatsu branch
room, adjoining large parts warehouse, three 18m deep work bays featuring a 10 tonne overhead crane along with a dedicated 18m deep wash bay, all of which opened early this year and marks over 22 years of local presence in the Mt Gambier region.
joying the lifestyle of the Mt Gambier region, so they have said goodbye to Sydney and are now nearly considered to be locals in Mt Gambier.
Nick (Simsy) Sims
Nick has a sound background in trucks, having done his apprenticeship at CumStaff mins Mt Gambier. He also gained great experience by Spare Parts Department ZRUNLQJ RQ WKH WUDZOHU ÀHHW 7RGD\ %RE DQG &DURO +HU- at Port MacDonnell. Nick has ring continue to look after all been working for local conspare parts requirements as tractors in both trucking and the KF agent and bring their harvesting with a short stint 22 years of forestry experi- in the mines which has given HQFH ZLWK WKHP IRU WKH EHQH¿W Nick a good set of all round of KF customers. They are the skills for the various challenghappy smiles you encounter es encountered by working in when you enter the new show- the forestry industry for KF. room. In addition, just a couDaniel (Whitey) White ple of years ago their son Nick joined the team as a Storeman Daniel also did his apand a Parts Interpreter. prenticeship at Cummins Mt Gambier. Having completed Service Department his apprenticeship he moved Paul Harrison (Product on and spent a few years in a Support Manager for KF) and local heavy plant repair workStuart Thornton have moved shop and carried out R&M on quickly to expand and develop various pieces of heavy plant D QHZ ¿HOG VHUYLFH WHDP ZLWK including forestry equipment. the addition of four new ser- He has just completed 7 years vicemen and upgraded to two at Prominent Hill in the mines. ,VX]X :' 6HUYLFH 7UXFNV He has returned to Mt GambiHTXLSSHG ZLWK 3DO¿QJHU er full time to spend more time PC2700 cranes and two 4WD with his young family. service utilities. Matt McPherson For those unfamiliar with the service team note the folMatt McPherson’s KF lowing:journey has only just begun having started a mature aged Stuart Thornton apprenticeship in April 2018 Stuart moved to Mt Gam- after one year as a TA. Matt bier two years ago to head up has shown an eagerness for the the service department. He industry and previous work has 24 years of experience experiences have given Matt with the KF Australia product a good set of skills to work lines. Having started with the with in the transition from TA company in the early Valmet to Apprentice with the aim of days as a young serviceman, EHFRPLQJ D IXOO\ 4XDOL¿HG he quickly progressed into Heavy Plant Technician. ¿HOG VHUYLFH DQG KDV EHHQ D Matt Alford very important part of the KF tech team. Stuart is now the Whilst Matt Alford iniRegional Service Manager for tially started with KF at the the GT. His vast experience is Mt Gambier branch he is now certainly a real asset for all the based in Colac. Matt has 14 KF customers within the GT years of extensive service hisregion. tory having spent time several Stuart is an ex Kiwi and his years with William Adams partner Carol are totally en- (Melbourne) working on Catwww.timberbiz.com.au
erpillar equipment and more recently working for Rio Tinto at Mt Tom Price working on Caterpillar, Komatsu and Hitachi earthmoving equipment. It was decided that it was paramount that KF have D ORFDO ÂżHOG VHUYLFHPDQ LQ WKH Portland/Otway/Colac region so moving Matt back to the Colac region was an obvious choice.
Ĺś Michael Dent
Sales Team : Michael Dent & Brenton Yon Michael grew up in Mt *DPELHU DQG LV D TXDOLÂżHG forester who joined KF as the new Sales Representative for the Green Triangle and Gippsland regions earlier this year. Ĺś Parts team: Nick, Caroline & Bob Herring He brings a wealth of forestry knowledge having started work in 2008 as a TechniFDO 2ŕľśFLHU IRU )RUHVWU\ 6$ and more recently Harvesting Manager for cable operations with HVP in the Gippsland region. He has also recently participated as a youth ambassador for Timber Communities Australia. Michael has been a very busy person in recent years having also completed DQ 0%$ +H KDV TXLFNO\ proved to be a great asset to the KF Sales Team. %UHQWRQ <RQ GRHVQÂśW UHquire any real introduction exFHSW WKDW %UHQWRQ KDV ZRUNHG within the Forest Industry Ĺś Tabeelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Komatsu 895 since 1981 and with KF since 1991, he brings vast experience to the table.
Quicker timeframe In summary KF plan to carry out all preparatory work on new machines for the Green Triangle through this new branch including the PDI as ZHOO DV WKH ÂżWPHQW RI KDUYHVWing and felling heads etc. This will remove a load from the Wodonga branch and at the same time speed up deliveries in the local area. The two most recent examples were the new Komatsu 895 forwarder and 7LPEHUSUR 7/ & ÂżWWHG ZLWK a Waratah 624C harvester recently delivered to Tabeel Trading. Ĺś Tabeelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Timberpro TL765C
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
17
In the news
Ĺś Snowy Valleys Council Mayor James Hayes, Peter Crowe, Greater Hume Shire Mayor Heather Wilton and Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Mayor Abb McAlister at the SWG meeting in Holbrook.
Councils unite to seek $20 million for forest road upgrades
A
meeting of the Softwoods Working Group (SWG) at Holbrook on Friday 24 August saw Snowy Valleys, Greater Hume and Cootamundra-Gundagai Councils unite to support an application by the group for $20 million to upgrade local URDGV LGHQWLÂżHG DV EHLQJ SULorities for timber haulage. SWG represents the interests of stakeholders in the south west slopes of NSW softwood forest industry including growers, processors,
councils and Regional Development Australia - Murray and Riverina. The group recently received approval to proceed to Stage 2 of its application under the NSW Growing Local Economies program to apply for $20 million in funding to upgrade local roads prioritised by the SWG 2015 Road Haulage Study. Chairman of the SWG, Peter Crowe, said it was imperative that the upgrades take SODFH DV WKH URDGV LGHQWLÂżHG LQ
the study would carry one million tonnes of logs per year for the next 10 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wood supply in the region is extremely tight and continuLW\ RI ZRRG Ă&#x20AC;RZ LV FUXFLDO ´ KH said. Mr Crowe said local roads LGHQWLÂżHG LQ WKH 5RDG +DXODJH Study as being priorities for XSJUDGLQJ ZHUH %RPERZOHH Creek Road and the Taradale/ %URDGOHDI 3DUN &RPSOH[ within Snowy Valleys Council; Coppabella Road within Greater Hume Shire; and
the Northern Road complex (Nanangroe, Adjungbilly, and Redhill Roads) within Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Collectively, these roads provide for the annual cartage of around 50 per cent of all logs produced in the region,â&#x20AC;? he said. Mr Crowe said the 2017 Industry Impact Study, completed on behalf of SWG and Forest and Wood Products $XVWUDOLD KDV FRQÂżUPHG WKH undoubted importance of the
softwood plantation-based industry for the continued social and economic wellbeing of the south west slopes region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This integrated industry supports the employment (direct and indirect) of more than 50 per cent of the workforce in the Snowy Valleys Council and contributes more than $2 billion to the gross value of regional output,â&#x20AC;? he said. Mr Crowe commended Snowy Valleys Council for agreeing to take the lead role in the application.
New timber processing and optimisation hub for Eden A consortium of forestry companies has begun the development of a $20 million high-tech optimisation facility aimed at maximising the value of resource handled on the Eden and East Gippsland regions. The new development at Edrom Road will be designed with the sustainable recurring 100-year resource profile in mind. The consortium partners, including Boral who will provide technical and 18
operational support, see a transition to many new technology applications in the region. Forestry Corporation of NSW recently announced that the hub was the preferred proponent for a 15year long-term contract for 25,000 cbm per year of quota hardwood log. The new hub will include a separate log optimising facility that can extract short logs from existing Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
pulpwood streams to augment the volume of the quota sawlog component. Additionally, the consortium is in the process of identifying processes that will use the sawdust and residues from the sawmill and existing wood chipping operations. Establishment of the facility will result in increased job opportunities in a range of professions and trades. www.timberbiz.com.au
ForestTECH
Mixed reality now a forestry reality ForestTECH: Rotorua 14-15 November; Melbourne 20-21 November
V
irtual, augmented and mixed reality are no longer just for gamers and tech demos. Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has called augmented and virtual reality the next major computing platform and is predicting that these technologies have the potential to replace smartphones and personal computers within 10 years. Even now, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re becoming an important tool for big business. Most sectors see UHDO EHQHÂżWV LQ XWLOLVLQJ YLUtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies. You can now use it to better visualise big data, operate machines remotely, walk through a virtual forest or maintain equipPHQW ZLWK UHDO WLPH Ă&#x20AC;RDWLQJ instructions. Adoption is being driven by reduced headset pricing, an almost continual new technology rollout, the arrival of major smartphone providers into the sector and the prototyping and subsequent deployment of enterprise solutions into workplaces. The forestry industry is one such sector that sees huge EHQHÂżWV At last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ForestTECH series, resource managers, remote sensing and GIS specialists and inventory foresters were all strapping on VR headsets. Ground breaking work is being led by the Huwww.timberbiz.com.au
man Interface Technology Lab out of Tasmania, as part of an FWPA project, demonstrating how VR technologies potentially could be employed using remotely acquired 3D point cloud data collected from ground-based and aerial LiDAR. The research has been aimed at testing whether foresters can visually characWHUL]H DQG PHDVXUH LQGLYLGXDO trees away from the forest. Twelve months on and, like the technology, advances in this space have been rapid. LiDAR data from a variety of in-forest trials have since been tested to see whether the features required in timber cruising can be picked up and TXDQWLÂżHG XVLQJ 95 Winyu Chinthammit from the HiT Lab, along with %UXFH +LOO IURP ,QWHUSLQH Group, will be presenting and demonstrating as part of the ForestTECH 2018 series. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also be taking a preconference workshop in both countries running through the ZRUNĂ&#x20AC;RZ RI WKH 95 DSSOLFDtion for tree assessment. WoodFlow 2018 delegates in Australia in late June were shown recent advancements in the use of virtual and augmented reality in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mining industry. In just a very short space of time, the technologies are being used extensively now in health and safety, training, product development, maintenance and
data visualisation. In induction training for example, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found that with the usual practice of using training manuals and courses, less than 20 percent retention of the information by new employees is common. Inductions arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t engaging and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prepare workers VXŕľśFLHQWO\ %\ XVLQJ HQJDJing VR and AR simulation, a 63 percent retention is now being recorded. The potential for use in forestry or in wood SURFHVVLQJ LQ PRUH KD]DUGRXV work environments, like mining, is obvious. Mixed reality is another technology being discussed as a game breaker. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already showing promise in a raft of industries. Mixed reality is a form of augmented reality, somewhere between VR and AR. In short, it brings people, places, and objects from the physical and digital worlds together. You can YLVXDOL]H WKH VRUW RI WHFKQROogy being employed here by thinking back to the 2009 epic VFLHQFH ÂżFWLRQ PRYLH $YDWDU (photo). Rather than checking out the locations of the humanoid species that were indigenous to Pandora, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also recently been trialed locally with a forestry company. Harvest planning today still relies on working with a topographic map, discussLQJ VSHFLÂżF KD]DUGV DQG ODQG characteristics, making deci-
sions about skid site placement, environment impacts, health and safety, harvest crew placement, and more. Although this is a common practice, some features can be lost in translation across the harvest planning chain of communication. Rayonier in New Zealand realised that there was a good case for using mixed reality technology, such as Microsoftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HoloLens, to enhance their harvest planning and communication. Scion was approached to investigate the HoloLens technology further and provide a proof of concept for its use. The proof of concept using the Tactile developed application called HoloMaps has been delivered. As one of top six Microsoft endorsed app developers for the HoloLens, the HoloMaps applicaWLRQ ZDV PRGLÂżHG WR EULQJ LQ Rayonier GIS data such as a digital terrain model (DTM) and associated attribute data belonging to compartments and skid sites. As part of the upcoming ForestTECH 2018 series, in addition to recent forestry trials with Hololens, App developers Taqtile Inc from Seattle and Microsoft will for the ÂżUVW WLPH LQ WKLV UHJLRQ EH RXWlining through presentations and hands on workshops, technology developments and the very real opportuni-
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
ties that exist with this type of technology for local forestry companies. The co-founder of CTRL Reality from Finland, will also be outlining the Virtual Forest thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recently been developed by Finlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Metsa Group, Tieto and CTRL Reality. The virtual forest is a true VR experience. It runs on all VR headsets, mobile devices and in web browsers. In this new service, tested already by 2,000 forest owners, users can move from one site to another, see what harvesting and forest management activities should be carried out each time, and run estimates on the income and costs of each activity. The virtual forest also shows what the forest would ORRN OLNH DIWHU GLŕľľHUHQW DFWLYLWLHV DQG LW RŕľľHUV GHJUHH images of the forest. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ForestTECH 2018 series is designed to get local forestry companies to really think outside the square. It runs in Rotorua, New Zealand on 14-15 November and then again in Melbourne, Australia on 20-21 November. A series of pre-conference workshops that proved so successful at previous events have also been set up for conference delegates the day before each conference runs. Full details can be found on both programs on the event website, www.foresttech.events. 19
Harvesters
Ponsse Scorpion: a new era in harvester technology Unique triple frame structure incorporating the levelling system keeps the centre of gravity of the machine very low
I
n 2010, Ponsse set about creating a harvester like none other to address the many concerns raised by operators and owners with the design and functionality of the many wheeled harvesters already in the marketplace. It was at this time that the concept of the worlds most advanced harvester was born.
20
From this point on it took many years of collaboration and intense design and testing to create what has undoubtedly become the most successful and widely accepted harvester ever produced by Ponsse and arguably by any forestry equipment company in history. It was in 2013 that the Scor-
SLRQ ZDV R൶FLDOO\ ODXQFKHG publicly at Elmia Wood, Sweden, and from this point on Ponsse have gone on to manufacture 700 units that have been sold throughout the world.
Cutting edge design The machine itself has been designed starting from
the operator seating position. For this reason, the operator’s position is in the centre of the slew ring increasing comfort levels by reducing movement FDXVHG E\ EHLQJ R൵VHW WR WKH slew ring. The crane too is of a new design that provides the power needed for harvesting but is totally clear from the operator’s
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
direct forward vision enabling him or her to focus on the harvesting head and the trees being harvested without obstruction to the front or sides. Many structural components in the booms and frames are constructed from cast steel reducing stress points and giving much longer life for these critical components.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Harvesters Tech Specs Engine - Mercedes Benz OM906 Stage III 275hp
Weight - 22,500kg
Max reach - 11mt
Lift - 252kNm
Slew - 57kNm
Tractive force - 180kN
Harvester Heads - Multiple heads available for different operations, including eucalyptus heads.
Stability A unique triple frame structure incorporating the levelling system keeps the centre of gravity of the machine very low. This low centre of gravity and the ability of the frame to rotate as three separate sections (front, middle and rear) provides unmatched stability at full reach on uneven or steep terrain. Frame stabilisation works via position sensors in the crane and slew in conjunction with pressure sensors and remains active while the machine is moving. In the event the machine begins to exceed any parameters, crane functions are limited and driving will stop
www.timberbiz.com.au
until the boom comes back into a position that will not cause the machine to become unstable or tip.
levels itself automatically and smoothly enabling the operator to sit straight while focussing on harvesting timber.
Ergonomics
Visibility
The cabin of the Scorpion may well be one of its most notable features and is truly designed with the operator DQG FRPIRUW LQ PLQG $W ÂżUVW glance it cannot be mistaken for any other machine. From WKH KHDWHG RSHUDWRUV VHDW ÂżWWHG with neck and side rests, everything is in reach. The Ponsse Comfort controls enable the operator to simply rest his hands on the lever rather than gripping a joystick. The cabin
The most striking feature of the Scorpion is the unique boom design that pivots from each side of the cabin and rolls over the top of the cabin. This provides the operator with a view of the work area that cannot be matched by any other wheeled harvester in production today. In thinning operations, this visibility is directly related to productivity and is far more comfortable for the operator when he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have
design, several new design solutions and the input of users Awards during the product develop1 October 2013: The Ponsse ment of the new harvester. 27 November 2014: The Scorpion harvester receives the 9LYD $XWRPDWLRQ SUL]H IRU WKH Ponsse Scorpion harvester redevelopment work for the sta- FHLYHV WKH 3URGXFWLYH ,GHD SUL]H bilising and levelling system. for new innovations and the uti21 January 2014: The Ponsse lisation of digital features. 7 May 2015: The Ponsse Scorpion harvester receives the Quality Innovation of the Scorpion Harvester receives the Year award for the new ma- 5HG 'RW DZDUG IRU %HVW RI WKH chine structure which has %HVW IRU WRS TXDOLW\ DQG LQQRYDimproved driver ergonom- tive design. 20 Nov 2015: The Ponsse LFV DQG ZRUNLQJ HŕľśFLHQF\ 31 January 2014: The Ponsse Scorpion Harvester receives the Scorpion harvester receives the 6ZHGLVK 6WHHO 3UL]H RI XWLOL]LQJ )HQQLD 3UL]H *UDQG 3UL[ WKH high-strength steel on a revoluPDLQ SUL]H LQ LQGXVWULDO GHVLJQ tionary design which improves for its long-term utilisation of both performance and comfort. to try and see past a boom.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
21
Harvesters
Precision, power, productivity and economy, too!
T
are equipped with Intelligent %RRP &RQWURO ,%& $YDLODble solely for the 1270G CH7 boom and 1170G CH6 boom, ,%& LQFUHDVHV RSHUDWRU DFFXUDF\ DQG SURGXFWLYLW\ ,%& allows the driver to control the harvester head, while the system directs the movements of the boom. Designed for the unique work cycle of the harvester, the movement and operation of the boom G-Series Harvesters automatically adapts as it is The powerful G-Series taken to a tree and when the harvester line, including the tree is in the grapple. With 1270G and 1470G models, WKH DGGLWLRQ RI ,%& WKH features the standard Pro- 1270G and 1170G harvesters cessing Power Control (PPC) have more controlled moveV\VWHP 33& RSWLPL]HV IXHO ments, decreasing the learnHŕľśFLHQF\ E\ FRRUGLQDW- ing curve for new operators. All G-Series harvesters 200kW (compared to its preing the accurate processing level with the current work feature standard Adaptive vious 170kW) and improved FRQGLWLRQV DQG WUHH VL]H %\ Driveline Control, a system torque by up to 17 percent. selecting the Energy Saving, that improves the machine The eight-wheeled model, 1RUPDO RU %RRVW 0RGH RS- drivability and productivity ERDVWLQJ ÂżYH SHUFHQW PRUH tions, the system can foresee by automatically adjusting torque, is designed for steep the engine load and adjust engine RPMs to correspond slopes and soft terrain, providaccordingly. This improves with the engine load. Adap- ing a proven solution for logfuel economy, saving time tive Driveline Control en- gers in challenging areas. DQG PRQH\ GXH WR OHVV ÂżOO sures that the engine runs 1470G Harvester ups. Additionally, the Twin VPRRWKO\ DQG HŕľśFLHQWO\ XVHV Pump Hydraulic System Equipped with many of on the G-Series harvestcustomer-approved feaers provides operators tures found in the 1270G with strong and steady models, the 1470G is â&#x20AC;&#x153;PPC optimizes fuel control of the boom and equipped with a bigger harvester head. This efďŹ ciency by coordinating &+ ERRP DQG D GLŕľľHUprecise control enables front frame, bogie axthe accurate processing ent the operators to be more les and tires. The largest level with the current productive and less fain the lineup, the 1470G tigued during long workmachine has been praised work conditions and days. for its power and torque, tree sizeâ&#x20AC;? The G-Series cabins as well as its steady enare another example of gine performance without how John Deere designs drops in RPMs. their machines with the The 1470G harvester operator in mind. The cabin the maximum tractive force features a high ground clearautomatically adjusts to the available during high-load ance, making the machine boom movements, while the situations. ideal for tough terrain and leveling functions absorb steep slopes. Integration of 1270G Harvester any terrain changes. This dethe CH9 boom is available in creases machine vibration by Available as either a six- three reach options, providing as much as 50 percent during wheeled or eight-wheeled increased balance and superb operation, increasing opera- machine, the 1270G model accuracy and maneuverability. tor comfort. provides operators with a 7KH &+ ERRP LV RSWLPL]HG $Q LQGXVWU\ ÂżUVW WKH SRZHUIXO PLG VL]HG VROXWLRQ with the Twin Pump Hydrau1270G and 1170G models The six-wheeled model boasts lic System, and enables conhe John Deere family of harvesters feature powerful and intuitive machines designed to handle tough harvesting jobs. The G-Series wheeled harvesters and M-Series tracked harvesters are backed by dedicated dealer support and equipped state-of-the-art technology, saving customers both time and money.
22
H-16 harvester head control system. Rapid Cycle System (RCS) is standard on the M-Series M-Series Harvesters Harvesters, and blends an auThe M-Series Tracked Har- tomated felling-head arm cyvesters were designed based cling with simple boom conon customer input. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This ma- WURO 7KLV V\VWHP VLJQLÂżFDQWO\ chine is designed for the fu- reduces operator fatigue while ture,â&#x20AC;? said Roy Isley of D&J simultaneously increasing efIsley and Sons Contracting ÂżFLHQF\ DQG SURGXFWLYLW\ Ltd., owner of an 859MH Multiple RCS settings can be model. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This harvester is an saved according to individual absolutely awesome machine. operator preferences based on The steeper the terrain, the skill levels. All the wheeled and tracked better it runs. The balance and reach are really impressive. harvesters are equipped with The machine just wants to be JDLinkâ&#x201E;˘, the proven telematics solution from John Deere. there.â&#x20AC;? Spacious and comfortable, $YDLODEOH ÂżYH \HDUV LQ EDVH the operator station features JDLink remotely connects ergonomically designed con- owners and managers with trols. Adjustable armrests, their equipment and their local ÂżQJHUWLS FRQWURO RI PDFKLQH John Deere dealer, providing functions, and an air-condi- visibility to the jobsite. With tioned seat ensure operator alerts and machine informacomfort during long shifts. tion, as well as performance $GGLWLRQDOO\ WKH Ă&#x20AC;RRU WR FHLO- and maintenance data, JDLink ing and side windows along allows owners and managers with the overhead skylight to better manage where and administer 44 percent more how equipment is used, even visibility than previous mod- from miles away. For more els, for enhanced view of the information contact your timber. Another great features nearest Hitachi Construction is that M-Series harvesters 0DFKLQHU\ $XVWUDOLD %UDQFK can be ordered direct from or call their 24/7 number the factory with the integrated 1300 HITACHI. current boom movements, head operations and machine activity.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
Harvesters
Ŷ Tigercat 855C feller buncher fitted with the new Coppice Spray System working at a blue gum operation in western Victoria.
Two jobs done in one pass with new Coppice Spray System
J
otham Allwright, Service Manager at Onetrak in South Australia, has, together with Tigercat, developed a CopSLFH 6SUD\ 6\VWHP VSHFL¿cally designed for Australian logging operations. Jotham starts by explaining how this task came about “Several customers told me they required a stump spraying system for use on shear heads in the blue gum operations here in South Australia and Victoria. The brief was to invent a system that could perform falling and spraying ZKLOH QRW KDYLQJ DQ\ H൵HFW on how the operator sheared the trees.”
Developed and tested in Australia Tigercat Product Support
www.timberbiz.com.au
representative Steve Green worked with the Tigercat engineering team to develop the software for the control system and several local engineering companies were used to make various components. “One of our customers, Les Walkden, was kind enough to make his machine available for testing and provided extensive input towards the prototypes and now the current system,” Jotham says. It was a substantial process of researching, developing and testing different methods to finally arrive at a system that met all criteria set out by the different stakeholders. “My initial system was a FRXSOH RI QR]]OHV RQ WKH EDFN of the head. As the tree was
cut the idea was to spray over the stump as the head lifted. I found there were too many uncontrollable factors here - sometimes the operator could push dirt or bark over the stump which meant we couldn’t get full coverage. “This put pressure back onto trying to port the chemical through the blades. Having the chemical running through the blades would ensure accurate application directly onto the stump. This also ensured that the system was not affected by bark, dirt or operator technique. Initial testing was done by machining a channel into the surface of the blade and soldering a small metal tube into it. Unfortunately, this wasn’t reliable. “This led to trying to port
the chemical through the shear blades. Having the spray through the blades would ensure the application had minimal changes from operator technique and environmental changes ensuring high productivity can be maintained. Now we have drilled an internal hole lengthways through the blade and ported all the chemical through the chassis into the blade,” he explained.
Forest owners and contractors give tick of approval “So far, we’ve had machines running successfully in blue gum operations for over 6 months without any problems. All stakeholders including customers and forest owners are happy with
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
the application and performance of the system on the machines,” Jotham says. The system suits any Tigercat shear head in any application and allows the operator to complete falling and spraying in one pass. This speeds up the rotation cycle considerably as it prevents the need to have a second contractor having to come in and spray at a later stage. “Two jobs are done in one pass. The cost to have another contractor spraying trees is reduced and extra growth period is picked up as trees can be replanted sooner,” says Jotham. 7R ¿QG RXW PRUH SOHDVH contact one of Onetrak’s dedicated forestry machinery representatives.
23
Simulators
Ŷ Harvester and forwarder simulator
Learning harvesting and forwarding in real time simulators
J
ohn Deere integrated harvester/forwarders G-Series simulators are designed to make it simple to train both harvester and forwarder operators on one simulator, simply by pressing a button to change from one machine form to the next. %\ KDYLQJ WKH DELOLW\ WR ORDG terrain and forest types it’s like harvesting and forwarding in real time. Equipped with the H-16 control system the John Deere simulator teaches students and operators the core values of harvesting and processing to PD[LPL]H WKH IXOO YDOXH RI WKH stems being harvested, without being in the forest. This allows operators to become ef¿FLHQW EHIRUH RSHUDWLQJ D PDchine, improving their skills and reducing the risk of both machine damage and reduced value recovery.
TimberSkills learning environment The TimberSkills learning program provides tools for tracking a student’s performance while undergoing the TimberSkills set training exercises. Progression of students can be mapped through the learning evaluation monitoring, included in the TimberSkills software program. Several students can be monitored and compared at any given time. They can also do a selfevaluation on their advancement.
Operator report The operator report is an excellent tool for supporting a student’s progress in the TimberSkills learning envi24
ronment. The report provides feedback with an evaluation scale of 1 to 5 in comparison to the simulator’s performance reference guide. The harvester and forwarder simulator is equipped with the same programs as in a John Deere forest machine. Even the keypads and the seat are the same. Training with the harvester and forwarder simulator teaches students how to adjust the setup for the base machine and harvester head and how to use the measuring system to get the best out of a real machine in a real logging site. The harvester and forwarder operation simulator is available as a portable version for laptop computers. The simulator set includes the F-Series harvester keypads and controls as well as an installation kit, power supply and transport case. The set does not include a laptop computer, however, as recommended this can be purchased locally to ensure that the keypad and language are correct. TimberMatic control systems are not included in the laptop simulator. The PC simulator program has the same features as the wheeled harvester TimberMatic H control system. Using the PC simulator, you can practice control system functions, such as calibration, stand control routines, and storing data from production. The PC simulator can also be used to simulate bucking of tree trunks. For further informationb please contact your nearest Hitachi Construction Machinery branch or dial their 24/7 number 1300 HITACHI.
Ŷ Harvester operation simulator, Forwarder operation simulator
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
t XXX n e m p i u q E y r t s e r o F h a Warat Used Equipment - 2350 machine hours - thumbnail rollers - TimberRite head only - Cabin automation extra - Can be procured if required Location Milton Victoria
AUD$120,000 + GST Used 622C 4x4 Harvester
1WA622BXTE0002106 Approx. 6330 Hrs. TimberRite Head only. Location Australia As is price AUD $40,000.00 + GST
HTH622c 4x4 harvester TimberRite Head Only Approx. 5000 hours. Location Rotorua New Zealand.
WA622BX000763 Approx. 16000 Hrs. TimberRite Head only Location Australia As is Price AUD $25,350.00 + GST
Second Used 626 Bigwood Being rebuilt. Get in early to determine your rebuild price.
As is price NZD $103,190 + GST
FL85 Series II Approx. 500 hours. Location Rotorua New Zealand.
New FL95 Moving Saw Box Complete with installation kit. Location Rotorua New Zealand.
As is price NZD $40,000 + GST
NZD $85,000 + GST
1WA622CXKG00000165 Approx. 2850Hrs. TimberRite Head only. Location Australia As is price AUD $114,000.00 + GST
Rebuilt 626 Bigwood 2007 New motors, line bore, new pins, hydraulic valve bank reseal, repaint. New TimberRite automation system. Location Rotorua, New Zealand. As is price NZD $180,000.00 + GST
H415 Demo harvester Comes complete with H16 automation. Ideal post yard or thinning application. Location Rotorua New Zealand. NZD $140,000 + GST
Waratah Forestry Equipment 03 9747 4200 parts.waratah.com www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
25
Simulators
Ĺś Track carrier option for Ponsse Full Simulator contains Sure Grip levers; it can be switched between track base controls and Ponsse machine controls.
Ponsse Simulators provide a modern learning environment for training
S
imulator training is an HŕľśFLHQW ZD\ RI WHDFKing future operators the basic functions of a forest machine. In addition, simulators are an economic means of SURYLGLQJ VXŕľśFLHQW SUDFWLFH before moving on to training that takes place in the forest environment. Ponsse Simulators provide a modern learning environment for training that involves the operation of harvesters and forwarders and the Ponsse Opti information systems. Ponsse Simulator is also available with 360° degree virtual reality goggles. Simulators for each purpose of use The Ponsse harvester simulator allows practicing actual harvesting tasks, performing GLŕľľHUHQW WKHPDWLF H[HUFLVHV and studying the operation and use of a machineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s control and measurement system. With the Ponsse forwarder
26
simulator the user can practice the driving and loading of forwarder and the controlling of crane in real conditions. The thematic exercises of a forwarder simulator can include practicing the handling of a boom from one point to another, loading and unloading activities involving various kinds of starting points, as well as realistic site exercises, which can also include site planning. The Ponsse Simulator is an excellent tool for training operators and drivers, regardless of whether the training objectives consist of basic training, product training or adjustment training. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The demand of training for professional forest machine operators is growing. Forest machine operators want to keep up with techQRORJLFDO DGYDQFHV DQG ÂżQG ways to make the job more economical and productive,â&#x20AC;?
says Esko Havimäki, Training Manager at Ponsse. Âł2XU WUDLQLQJ RŕľľHULQJ VXSports the additional training needs of professional forest machine operators and Ponsse Simulator training programs enhance the operator trainers learning,â&#x20AC;? Esko said. A wide array of tools for diverse training skills The aim of the training is to develop the operators skills. When driving a modern forest machine, the driver must have good coordination and the ability to handle computer systems and technology. In Ponsse Simulator, special attention has been paid so that practicing can be tailored according to the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skills level. The purpose of thematic exercises is to achieve VSHFLÂżF WUDLQLQJ REMHFWLYHV They restrict some functions or include additional training features. Our simulators come
with training packages that start with simple basic tasks and increase the level of difÂżFXOW\ DQG FKDOOHQJHV DV WKH trainee begins to accumulate skills. Teachers can also modify the thematic exercises or create entirely new ones. Âł7RGD\ 3RQVVH LV D VLJQLÂżcant training provider, even measured by the number of training days. We wish to continue to be the best in the industry in providing superior trainings. To this end, we have developed a new training environment based on VR360° technology for internal trainings,â&#x20AC;? says Esko. â&#x20AC;&#x153;VR360° is a virtual reality that uses a computer-modHOOHG DUWLÂżFLDO HQYLURQPHQW to simulate the real environment. For example, we can simulate a harvester headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s structure, maintenance and repairs for training purposes,â&#x20AC;? he says.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
PONSSE Full Simulator Genuine Ponsse OptiControl system of harvester and forwarder Opti7 PC and genuine seat Ponsse Comfort and/ or Comfort Mini joysticks Exercises from beginners to professionals Option: 360°degree VR (virtual reality) goggles Tracked carrier option
PONSSE Compact Simulator Light and easy to carry Genuine Ponsse OptiControl system of harvester and forwarder Ponsse Comfort and/ or Comfort Mini joysticks Exercises from beginners to professionals
PONSSE Basic Simulator Simple simulator for beginners Light and easy to carry Forwarder and Harvester (Buffalo and Ergo) Exercises: learn basic control movements of forest machines No Ponsse OptiControl Contains laptop Ponsse Comfort Mini joysticks www.timberbiz.com.au
Simulators
Reality bytes and it can pay dividends
W
hen you think of forest work you automatically think of the massive, technologically-advanced units that help keep businesses - and the industry as a whole - operational. However, these machines donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come cheap, and they need dedicated, industrysavvy and highly professional operators to realise their full potential, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the age of simulators has played a telling role. In these days of all things â&#x20AC;&#x153;realityâ&#x20AC;? -- television shows, games and the list goes on -industry, too, has pinned its hopes on providing a highly skilled workforce with the help of these specialised reality units. Âł6LPXODWRUV DUH HŕľľHFWLYH for quantitative training before you start operating real machines in the forest,â&#x20AC;? says %UHWW -RQHV 0DQDJLQJ 'LUHFtor Komatsu Forest. And he is quick to add that for experienced operators simXODWRU WUDLQLQJ RŕľľHUV DQ RSportunity to test new methods that can result in increased efÂżFLHQF\ DQG SURGXFWLYLW\
%UHWW VD\V WKH VLPXODWRUV RQ RŕľľHU IURP .RPDWVX WKH KF500 and the KF50) mirror real life operations as far as possible. Mirror image of the real thing â&#x20AC;&#x153;In our simulators the machines perform the same way as they do in the forest,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This includes, for example, how the head behaves when set against a tree and how the logs move during forwarding. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more the forest can resemble the one you work in. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You choose the terrain, landscape and tree species!â&#x20AC;? The instruction program in the simulator guides the operator though basic training to full operation in the forest and the instructor can easily follow progress from their own work station. The simulators DUH DYDLODEOH LQ GLŕľľHUHQW language versions as well as a laptop model. %UHWW VD\V WKDW HYHQ WHDPwork can be highlighted and tested on the KF units. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the multiplayer function two simulators can operate in the same virtual environment. A
forwarder and a harvester can team up, for instance, and the statistics will present their combined results.â&#x20AC;? He explained that provision of a separate instructor station provides a better overview and interaction with operators. For example, the instructor can pause the simulation, record video clips and create comments with timestamps. Terrain and tree species Âł%\ FKRRVLQJ WKH DSSURpriate tree species, terrain and forest density the operator can train under the same conditions found in the forest. Choose between birch, pine, spruce and eucalyptus. This is UHDOLW\ DW LWV EHVW ´ VD\V %UHWW KF simulators allow you to practice operating all KF harvesters and forwarders with PDQ\ GLŕľľHUHQW PDFKLQH RStions. You have the option to choose between the standard crane and combi crane, S-type and C-type heads, and with or without the multi-tree handling function. Âł%DVLFDOO\ LWÂśV D OHDUQLQJ teaching/honing system that helps people forge a solid career in one of the best industries in the world,â&#x20AC;? he says.
Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a quick rundown on what is on offer from KF: KF500 Included as standard software for harvesters lifetime licence software for forwarders lifetime licence SMS (Simulator Management System) AgX Dynamics Physics Engine KCC Joysticks Komatsu original seat One industrial display (LED NEC 55â&#x20AC;?) One 15â&#x20AC;? display for MaxiXplorer Options EME joysticks Suregrip joysticks Three displays (LED NEC 55â&#x20AC;?) Software for tracked harvesters Instructor station Software update for older simulators Motion platform Head movement tracking VR headset
KF50 Included as standard software for harvesters lifetime licence software for forwarders lifetime licence SMS (Simulator Management System) AgX Dynamics Physics Engine KCC Joysticks Armrests High resolution laptop with HDMI port Transport case Options EME joysticks Suregrip joysticks Software for tracked harvesters Instructor station Software upgrade for older simulators VR headset
Oryx acquisition Earlier this year Komatsu Ltd. acquired Oryx Simulations through Komatsu Forest AB, a wholly owned subsidiary in Sweden. Oryx Simulations, headquartered in Umeü, Sweden, designs, develops, manufactures and sells simulators of forest machines. Oryx Simulations has been developing forest machine simulators in collaboration with Komatsu Forest AB since the 1990s. As the operation of forest machines such www.timberbiz.com.au
as harvesters is very complicated, the use of simulators is indispensable for operator training. The company designs, develops, manufactures and sells operator training simulators of forest machinery and construction equipment. Oryx Simulations has a wealth of real-time simulation expertise and leads the industry with other cuttingedge technologies.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
27
Simulators
Cost-effective class act when it comes to training Vision-ary technique tool
S
imulators are considered a class act when it comes to helping people develop skills in forestry machine operation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a safe DQG FRVW HŕľľHFWLYH ZD\ WR H[plore and master techniques DQG JDLQ JUHDWHU SURÂżFLHQF\ and that, when transferred from the virtual environment to the real world, means productivity along with machine care that all businesses strive for. These modern day simulators are, to quote some forestry contractors, â&#x20AC;&#x153;bloody brilliantâ&#x20AC;?. However, quite often overlooked is the how and why and when these units came into being, and in this instance when looking at what Caterpillar has WR RŕľľHU LQ WKH ZD\ RI VLPXODWRU WUDLQLQJ LW DOO ÂżWV LQ ZLWK &6( SoftwareÂŽ Inc and Simformotionâ&#x201E;˘ LLC, a Peoria (Illinois) based company. CSE Software was founded in 1990 by President and CEO .HQ 3Ă&#x20AC;HGHUHU WR WHDFK ÂłFRPputer skills enhancementâ&#x20AC;? classes. The company soon evolved into not only custom developed software, but a variety of integrated IT services, AR/VR, mobile, simulation and help desk support. Partners Lara Aaron and Renee Gorrell joined the business in 1992. CSE built its reputation for superior application development and support services for clients such as CaterpilODU *URZPDUN %D\HU 26) Healthcare, and others. Approximately 15 years ago Caterpillar introduced heavy equipment simulators to demo machine controls. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t long before they realL]HG WKH\ KDG D SRZHUIXO RSerator training tool. In 2008 Caterpillar decided to license the business to an outside company and began the vetting process on a global scale. Caterpillar awarded the license for CatÂŽ Simulators in 2009. 28
Simformotionâ&#x201E;˘ LLC was established as a separate company to handle the simulator business and is the exclusive licensee for Cat Simulators for Caterpillar Inc. Dedicated personnel were hired for Simformotion, including warehouse VWDŕľľ HQJLQHHULQJ VDOHV DQG marketing.
A unique product %\ WKH HQG RI 6LPIRUmotion had been awarded its ÂżUVW FRQWUDFW E\ WKH 8 6 $UP\ for 31 Small Wheel Loader Simulator Systems (the sixth simulator system). The units were installed at the Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. location. Since then, militaries worldwide have purchased Cat Simulators. In the fall of 2009 the decision was made by CSE to bring the software development in house. Caterpillar had originally been working with a company in Canada to develop the software for its simulators. Fourteen products have been developed so far, with more in development. Cat Simulators are sold all over the world in countries such as Canada, Australia, 6RXWK $IULFD 0RQJROLD %UD]LO DQG 5XVVLD
Multiple beneďŹ ts Now, back to the operation DQG EHQHÂżWV RI WKH &DW VLPXODtors â&#x20AC;Ś. &DW 6LPXODWRUV RŕľľHU D unique method of training operators safely. In the virtual world, an operator can gain practical knowledge and skills before training on the actual machines. The simulatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s controls are representative of those in an actual machine allowing the operator to gain muscle memory that translates to the real world. The ability to convert from one machine to another using the same base unit allows for cross training and mobility. Operators
can repeat exercises in the simulated environment and make mistakes without harm to himself, other personnel or the jobsite. Each simulator has multiple exercises based on actual applications performed on jobsites worldwide. Simulators train users consistently,
without varying from proper safety and procedures. Cat Simulators also include an Open Training mode so dangerous real-life scenarios can be recreated in the simulated environment to teach the operators how to avoid the same situation.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
Cost savings 2UJDQL]DWLRQV WKDW XVH VLPulators for part of their training can experience cost savings immediately. They avoid the costs of fuel and engine maintenance while using simulators for training. Simulator training www.timberbiz.com.au
Simulators allows new operators to cut their teeth in the virtual environment and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t slow down the production circuits. The actual machines arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t taken away from production work nor subjected to misuse by an untrained operator. The number of hours and days actual machines stay in production with experienced operators at the controls versus slowing the circuits down with new and inexperienced operators directly inFUHDVHV DQ RUJDQL]DWLRQÂśV ERWtom line. 8WLOL]LQJ D VLPXODWRU DORQJ with SimU Campusâ&#x201E;˘ training records management software is a great way to screen operators. Human Resources personnel can set important benchmarks to determine aptitude of potential employees, then test and evaluate in a simXODWHG HQYLURQPHQW WR ÂżQG WKH PRVW TXDOLÂżHG SHRSOH The Cat Simulators motion system accurately represents the full range of whole body vibrations a user will feel when the simulated machine is running during training exercises. Users can experience forward/backward and left and right tilt as well as up and
www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
down movement. Users will not only gain the knowledge and skills needed for controls and applications, they will also learn how to make the precision movements necessary to increase productivity, better learn tipping points on machines and much more.
Full evaluation Caterpillar reviews and evaluates the physics of each machine carefully through the input of many experienced heavy equipment operators. Having a solidly tuned machine simulation translates to realistic and accurate motion cues from the system to the operator of the simulator. Additionally, R&D is ongoing to stay current on technology that will enhance simulation training. For example, VR (with a headset) is now integrated into some models for a seamless view of the environment and greater depth perception during training. The combination of visual, auditory and kinaesthetic learning creates a complete training experience for the user. Operators can increase production and improve safety with better skills.
29
Simulators
Waratah one of the leaders in simulator training Asia Pacific and Africa Simulator Forum to again be held in Melbourne
A
s the leading global producer of mechaQL]HG KDUYHVWLQJ equipment, there is increased dependence on mechanisation and advancing user compliance in those forest operations. The expectation of the forest owner has always been to have machine owners and operators to provide quality logs of the highest value with consistent production and perform this safely.
30
Harvesting trees is not simply sending man and machine into the forest to cut them down. It is precision forestry performed by skilled operators using leading edge computer technology and software. The past years have seen all WKH PDMRU IRUHVW RZQHUV XWLOL]ing internally Waratah TimberRite simulators as part of their continued mechanisation WUDLQLQJ IRU $37 ¿OH PDQDJH-
ment. Waratah Australia have been involved throughout this period with this training and assisting providers in these changes. We now see the new Series Simulators that have all the same features as a real forest machine. These new training simulators allow trainees to practice every stage of the harvesting process- from planning a stand to stacking cut timber at the road side all from inside a classroom. Trainees can practice operating several machines in the same stand at the same time. Waratah simulators provide the right solutions for every training requirement. With the increased demand on the operators we are now seeing the use of the Waratah simulator packages becoming an accepted method of training in the local industry. Since the release of the latest Waratah sim 4 they have
supplied training simulators to Arbre Hub Tasmania, Federation Training Gippsland, Riverina TAFE Tumut. Waratah Forestry Equipment has invested a large amount of time in making sure that the local forestry training centres have the required training packages available. Waratah continues to invest in this with the most recent simulator donation to LITA Mt Gambier in South Australia. What typically happens during the simulator sales period is, the Sales Teams join in the photo opportunities. However, over time the after-sales support for upgrading and maintaining the product falls away because of distance from the manufacturer, as it’s not a core business of the local supplier and there is a genuine lack of peer support. The original new trainers themselves in many cases move on to more senior roles which causes the training packages to become aged or in
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
some cases not applicable to today’s needs. The continued Waratah Forestry Equipment simulator investment doesn’t stop there; 2017 was the creation of the $VLD 3DFL¿F DQG $IULFD 6LPXlator Forum which is held in Melbourne each year. The formation of the APA Forum draws a wide range of industry simulator representatives who are not only great coaches and skilled trainers but they are also passionate about the people in the forest industry. They FRPH IURP GL൵HUHQW ERGLHV throughout Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and gather to create a means to refreshing the physical training tools, scope the latest training needs today, share training packages and most importantly build a strong network of support. Planning is well under way for the 2018 forum which is shaping up to be bigger and better than 2017. www.timberbiz.com.au
Bio
Customer input shapes new horizontal grinder and drum chipper models
M
Wood Hog and the 50/48X Drum Chipper,â&#x20AC;? said Michael Stanton, Morbark Director of Industrial Sales. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We took our previous proven design technology and added the features our customers want and the versatility they need when we created these high-production units.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The 6400XT is the newest model in Morbarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next-genHUDWLRQ SODWIRUP RI KRUL]RQWDO grinders,â&#x20AC;? said Stanton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In-
orbark, LLC, a leading manufacturer of forestry, biomass, tree care, sawmill, and wood recycling equipment, debuted two new machines at Expo Richmond show: the 6400XT Wood Hog +RUL]RQWDO *ULQGHU DQG WKH 50/48X Whole Tree Drum Chipper. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Morbark listened closely to our customers when we developed both the 6400XT
dustry demands for high-production mobile units that meet stringent logistic restrictions but remain economically viable were the leading drivers during the design phase.â&#x20AC;? The 6400XT includes many feature improvements present in the smaller 3400XT, introduced last year. The infeed bed is 24 inches (60.96 cm) longer than previous Morbark grinders in the 1,000-plus horsepower range and has
VORSHG VLGHV 7KLV FRQÂżJXUDtion improves operator sight OLQHV IRU PRUH HŕľśFLHQW ORDGing of material. Standard on the 6400XT is a removable inIHHG FKDLQ UHWXUQ Ă&#x20AC;RRU ZKLFK allows excess material to fall DZD\ WR PLQLPL]H WKH ZHDU RQ WKH Ă&#x20AC;RRU EHG FKDLQ DQG inserts, particularly useful in land-clearing or other applications with dirty material. Also similar to the 3400XT is the focus on transportabil-
ity. The 6400XT weighs in at less than 96,500 lb (43,772 kg) and measures 11â&#x20AC;&#x2122;5½â&#x20AC;? (3.49 m) wide with the standard Caterpillar 325L undercarriage with 600mm double grousers, allowing the unit to be transported to nearly all domestic and international markets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we introduced the 3400XT last year, our customers responded very favorably,â&#x20AC;? Continued on Page 32
MORBARK 40/36 TRACK WHOLE TREE CHIPPER Morbark Integrated Control Systems (MICS) This ultimate diagnostic system monitors hydraulic pressures, temperatures, clutch systems and engine IĆž GMIRG] XS QE\MQM^I TIVJSVQERGI Drum 8LI %HZERXEKI ĆŚ HVYQ GVIEXIW QSVI YRMJSVQ GLMTW ERH VIHYGIW STIVEXMRK ERH QEMRXIRERGI GSWXW Discharge (MVIGXMSREP Ć˝ S[ HMWGLEVKI GLYXI MW L]HVEYPMGEPP] EHNYWXEFPI F] VIQSXI GSRXVSP JSV QE\MQYQ GLMT PSEHW Sloped Infeed System %KKVIWWMZI WPSTIH PMZI Ć˝ SSV ERH PEVKI XST JIIH[LIIP IRWYVI TSWMXMZI JIIH SJ FVYWL] XSTW ERH PMQFW
Direct Enquiries Mark Malone ¡ 0438 880 810
SALES
HIRE
SERVICE
PARTS
Free Call 1800 182 888 www.lincom.com.au sales@lincom.com.au OFFICE LOCATIONS
www.timberbiz.com.au
|
QLD
|
NSW
|
VIC
|
WA
|
NT
|
NZ
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
31
Bio
Provocative agenda for annual Bioenergy Australia Conference This year, Bioenergy Australia celebrates its 19th Annual Conference with a theme of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bioenergy Strong â&#x20AC;&#x201C; driving commercial outcomesâ&#x20AC;?. The two-day Conference (17 & 18 October 2018) which will attract over 250 guests, will be held at the spectacular State Library of Queensland in Brisbane. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The conference agenda this year is one Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m particularly excited and passionate about,â&#x20AC;? said Shahana McKenzie, CEO, Bioenergy Australia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be covering some hugely topical subjects such as the role of waste to energy in solving our waste challenge, the road blocks to biofuels deployment and an analysis of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bioenergy performance by KPMG. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What role does waste to energy play in tackling Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waste challenge? While councils are wres-
tling with increasing amounts of waste going to landfill, with Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Sword restricting the exportation of recyclables, our ministers across our nation are looking for urgent solutions and options. It will be great to hear from our diverse panel on waste to energy and what role it could play in Australia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another exiting element of the conference will be an interrogation of the Nations Bioenergy performance through the release of KPMGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s State of the Nation, Bioenergy report. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure some feathers will be ruffled when we announce how NSW, VIC and QLD rank within the State ladder!â&#x20AC;? said McKenzie. In addition, Grid integration and the role of biofuels in Australia are earmarked as standout sessions for the Bioenergy Strong Conference. Whether it is renewable fuels, electricity or gas a
major challenge faced by all of the renewables is how they obtain access to the distribution network that ultimately reaches consumers. The conference this year will seek to expose the road blocks, challenges and barriers to successful deployment of bioenergy across the energy mix. In addition to the main conference, a number of exciting events will also be taking place over those few days such as Welcome Drinks on Tuesday 16 October at the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, the inaugural Bioenergy Innovation Awards presentation night on Wednesday 17 October on the Maiwar Green at State Library of Queensland, and site visits on Friday 19 October to 3 bioenergy sites in Brisbane surrounds, more details to be released soon.
Customer input shapes new horizontal grinder and drum chipper models The larger feedwheel Ć&#x17D; FP GLDPHWHU DQ explained Stanton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It had a increase of more than 15%), major impact on the market, ZKLFK UDLVHV Ć&#x17D; FP and we expect the 6400XT to above the current 4600XL \RNH DQG Ć&#x17D; FP DERYH be as well received.â&#x20AC;? The 6400XT has several op- the 6600 yoke to allow better erator-friendly features focus- access to the hammermill during on accessibility for daily ing insert inspection Another key improvement maintenance, including: 7KH H[WHQGHG Ć&#x17D; ZLGH LV WKH Ć&#x17D; [ Ć&#x17D; FP [ (80 cm, 25% increase) plat- FP VROLG SODWH URWRU ZLWK Ć&#x17D; form between the hood and (7.6 cm) retaining rods and a engine for ease of changing Ć&#x17D; FP WLS VZLQJ 7KH grates and access to diesel en- standard hammer pattern is 18 hammers with 18 rakers, but gine $ Âż[HG ZRUN SODWIRUP IRU like all Morbark rotors, it can better access and safety during EH FRQÂżJXUHG WR PXOWLSOH SDWcommon grate and hammer- terns for various application requirements. mill maintenance The standard engine options A hydraulic hinged door and hood locking system to for the 6400XT are the Caterprovide quick access during pillar C27, 1,050-hp (783 kW) grate changes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the hydrau- engine or Caterpillar C32, lics unlock with a simple turn 1200-hp (895 kW) engine, both Tier 4 Final. of a knob Morbarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proven and A consolidated area for oil exclusive driveline protecDQG K\GUDXOLF ÂżOWHUV An independent hammer- tion system is standard on all mill drive tensioning system Wood Hog models. The externally adjustable, break-away for ease of adjustment Continued from Page 31
32
torque limiter helps to protect the driveline and hammermill from catastrophic damage caused by contaminants. 50/48X Whole Tree Drum Chipper â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most productive portable drum chipper in the industry has become even better,â&#x20AC;? added Stanton of the new 50/48X whole tree drum chipper. The 50/48X was updated to a similar design layout as Morbarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other industryleading industrial drum chippers with a sloped infeed, reverse-pivot top feed wheel, bottom feedwheel, externally adjustable anvil and Advantage 3 drum assembly that can come as 10-knives for fuel chip or 20-knives for microchip applications. Making it easier for customers to perform routine daily maintenance guided many of the new improvements. This focus resulted in the development of: A hydraulic hinged door
and hood locking system to provide quick access to the drum during knife change intervals Large work platforms on both sides for easier and safer drum inspections A consolidated area for oil DQG K\GUDXOLF ÂżOWHUV HDVLO\ accessible from the ground or maintenance platform An independent drum drive tensioning system for ease of adjustment An increased area between the engine and chipper base for easy access during general engine inspection and belly band removal Other improvements focused on performance and production. The powerful top feedwheel was enlarged more WKDQ WR Ć&#x17D; FP and the enhanced hydraulic system now includes a direct drive Poclain motor for the top and bottom feedwheel that eliminates previous chain and sprocket drives and provides more torque. The 50/48X can
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
be equipped with a Caterpillar C27, 1,050-hp (783 kW) engine or Caterpillar C32, 1200hp (895 kW) engine, both Tier 4 Final. The PT Tech HPTO15 hydraulic clutch is now standDUG ZKLFK DOORZV Ă&#x20AC;H[LELOLW\ across a wide range of chip VL]HV â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Morbark 50/48 has long been the industry standard for high-production mobile fuel and micro-chip applications, and we strongly feel these improvements will PLQLPL]H GRZQWLPH LQFUHDVH production and provide overall customer success,â&#x20AC;? stated Stanton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For both of these high-production machines, we focused on improving the experience for the customer with features that increase performance and production and make routine checks and maintenance easier,â&#x20AC;? said Stanton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We deliver on our promise of making heavy-duty equipment that helps enable our customers to succeed.â&#x20AC;? www.timberbiz.com.au
Green Triangle Awards
Counting down to historic awards night for Green Triangle
T
his year will go down in history as it marks the introduction of the inaugural Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards across Victoria and South Australia. The Awards are all about celebrating and rewarding individuals and companies involved in the timber industry for the dedication, hard work and best practices in their various roles and businesses. The event encompasses all sectors of the industry from nursery to silviculture, harvesting, haulage, logistics and processing and everything in between as it is important that we recognise everyone that contributes to the industry success. The Green Triangle is home to Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest collective plantation and timber processing industry, contributing VLJQLÂżFDQWO\ WR 9LFWRULD DQG South Australia, generating more than $778 million Gross Regional Product annually. In excess of 355,000 hectares of softwood and hardwood plantations produce timber for local manufacturing, national and export markets. The industry underpins some 8,500 regional jobs and provides a valuable foundation for businesses and investors. What is exciting is that www.timberbiz.com.au
there are many opportunities for further investment, greater SURGXFWLRQ DQG GLYHUVLÂżFDtion and further value adding to existing forest processing activities, with ready access to a strong and dynamic Australian market within a stable business environment. Award nominations closed at the end of August and judging will take place during September. The night of nights, the Awards SpectacuODU ZLOO EH KHOG DW 7KH %DUQ (Mount Gambier) on 26 October. Tickets for sale online at www.gttia.com As with most things, the awards just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen â&#x20AC;Ś theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the result of a group of industry and regional representatives having come together to work in collaboration governing the creation of the event. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a penpic of those behind the establishment of the awards:-
Adrian Flowers - Chair From a personal perspective with the support of our family owned and operated business I am excited at what the inaugural Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards will bring. For over thirty years my family who are the founders of Tabeel Trading have been part of and witnessed how the people and community have grown the industry. These people are the most vital component of our industry so are therefore the part that we need to put the spot light on. The
awards night will be a key to guaranteeing growth and improved strength for the future of our industry which is why I am committed to its success.
Roland Freyer
Sharon Freyer Qube Ports Portland is excited to be involved in the GTTIA awards as its aim is to bring all aspects of the Green Triangle Timber industry together and recognise each for the integral part that they play and celebrate the diversity of skills and innovation in the forestry and logistics industry in our region.
UDLVLQJ WKH SURÂżOH IRU IXWXUH generations. We want to invest in and care about the people in the industry.
Emma Kate GrifďŹ ths
The forest and timber industries have been the backbone of the Green Triangle region for the past 100 years. The success of these industries is due to the passion, skills and dedication of its people and the constantly evolving Tammy Whitehead innovations in technology These awards are a great and practices. At OneFortyopportunity to showcase the One it was important to us to David Wheaton opportunity and the variety celebrate our people and inRegional Development of jobs and careers within the dustries in this region. These Australia Limestone Coast timber industry and to also awards enable us all to come partners with business, gov- showcase how big it is in the together with our families, to recognise, celebrate and proernment and community lead- Green Triangle area. mote the world class skills, ers to foster regional develGreg Kenny innovations and people in this opment and strengthen the Limestone Coast commu%RUJ 0DQXIDFWXULQJ LV region. nity. I am delighted to be in- excited to participate in this Phillip Dohnt volved with this collaborative event that showcases all asHŕľľRUW WR FHOHEUDWH WKH IRUHVWU\ pects of our vertically inteThe awards night is exindustry which is so crucial to grated industry in the Region. tremely important for the timour regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prosperity. The innovation and leadership ber industry for a number of shown by individuals and busi- UHDVRQV LW KLJKOLJKWV WKH VL]H Peta Crewe nesses across all the catego- the investment and the comPIRSA articulates its pur- ries is well worth celebrating mitment from all facets within pose is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;to assist primary in- and allows acknowledgement the greater Green triangle Industries and regions to grow, across the broader community dustry. When L V Dohnt was awarded the South Australian innovate and maximise their outside of our industry. 7HOVWUD 0HGLXP %XVLQHVV RI economic growth potentialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Marcel GrifďŹ ths the year in 2017 it was a perThe intentions of the Green Triangle Timber Industry %\ FRPLQJ WRJHWKHU DQG sonal recognition to each of Awards are consistent with celebrating individuals, com- our employees of their comour purpose and will increase panies and the wider industry mitment, ownership and hard awareness of an industry we wanted to recognise the work to the continuous imthat is a major contributor to skills, hard work and dedica- provement and progression of the economy of this region, tion to the timber industry and systems and safety within our LV D VLJQLÂżFDQW HPSOR\HU how each and every one is im- Industry. I would encourage of highly skilled and dedi- portant to us. This is our op- all to be involved in seeing cated people, and has a very portunity to promote the tim- that recognition being highsustainable future. ber industry and work towards lighted in our region South West Fibre is excited for the opportunity to jointly celebrate and reward the passionate and dedicated people involved in the forest industry across the Green Triangle Region. This is an unique occasion to showcase an innovative and dynamic industry.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
33
Guest Columist XXX
The benefits of the demand-driven fertilization method in forestry By Joachim Nachmansohn
plant nutrients in optimal ratios. Meaning, providing the he foundation for nutrients in the ratios found in the method called the tree at maximum growth demand-driven fer- rate. One of the surprising WLOL]DWLRQ ZDV GHYHORSHG LQ aspects of this, was that they Sweden a couple of decades found that most plants need ago. The discoveries of the the nutrients in very similar principles behind the concept ratios. The nutrients should be was awarded with the WallenEHUJ 3UL]H ZKLFK IRU DOO LQ- supplied over time in sync tents and purposes, is a Nobel with the demand of the tree. 3UL]H LQ IRUHVWU\ ,W DOO EHJDQ ,Q WKH ÂżUVW SDUW RI WKH VHDVRQ D with the ingenious researcher tree grows virtually exponenprofessor Torsten Ingestad. tially, i.e. the biomass of the He had a very intuitive way tree increases with a certain of understanding plants and percentage each day, which plant nutrition, who always means that the daily demand used a no-nonsense approach, for the nutrients also increases in the simplest way possible. with the same percentage. The Most of his research con- supply should match this patFHUQHG IRUHVWU\ DQG PD[LPL]- tern as much as possible for ing tree growth rate and wood optimal results. When considering these productivity. In short his core discovery was that balanc- principals a few conclusions ing mineral addition with the can be drawn. First, trees need internal nutrient needs of the all nutrients just as much as tree results in maximum wood any other plant. This is improduction and minimum ad- portant to point this out as IRUHVW IHUWLOL]DWLRQ PRVW RIWHQ verse environmental impact. Today these discoveries concerns itself primarily with have been condensed into a nitrogen. Second, in propaplant nutrition method that gation and forest nurseries has helped transform water the method can be applied DQG IHUWLOL]HU PDQDJHPHQW LQ with extreme precision, as it virtually all niches of plant has with astonishing success. Third, under normal forestry production. The method can be divided conditions in bare ground the method cannot be applied into two main parts: the supply of all essential with optimal precision as it
T
34
isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t practically possible to apply with a high frequency, and accurate dosage, without a system for nutrient irrigation. And irrigation is very uncommon in forestry, even though it exists in some relatively rare contexts. Regardless of the methods limitations, its principles can EH XVHG ZLWK JUHDW EHQHÂżW in most forestry plantations. And in some rare innovative production systems, it can be implemented, as it has been, even with sprinkler irrigation with precision nutrition. The method did after all create a new world record in production of pulp, and as a matter of fact it was done so with Australian Eucalyptus in Portugal, which at the time was considered almost impossible. Another successful example was with pinewood in northern Sweden; nowhere in the country did pines grow as fast. Everywhere the method was implemented, nutrient OHDFKLQJ ZDV PLQLPL]HG DQG PLQHUDOL]DWLRQ LPSURYHG GUDPDWLFDOO\ 0LQHUDOL]DWLRQ LV the process in which organically bound nutrients in the soil become plant available. So besides optimal producWLRQ WKH QHHG IRU IHUWLOL]HUV
over time decreased considerably and the environmental conservation was enhanced. In actuality the demanddriven approach is really an enhancement of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own model, which is why not only the trees, but the whole ecosystem respond so well to it. Contrary to what usually hapSHQV ZKHQ IHUWLOL]LQJ IRUHVWV DOO YHJHWDWLRQ EHQHÂżWHG DQG not only the trees. The method of demandGULYHQ IHUWLOL]DWLRQ KDV D ORW WR RŕľľHU WR $XVWUDOLDQ IRUHVWU\ regardless of sub-niche as the principals are universal; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly relevant for Australia. 2ŕľľ FRXUVH WKHUH LV DOZD\V D matter of adaptation to local conditions, and I look forward to present some actionable adYLFH IRU GLŕľľHUHQW JHQUHV VXFK as nursery production, wood DQG SXOS DV ZHOO DV SURÂżWDEOH environmental approaches. 0\ ÂżQDO SRLQW LV WKLV ZH live in the age of the high-tech revolution, and I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think of an area in which this is booming more than in plant production. We will see incredible innovation in the near future, and what could be more innoYDWLYH WKDQ WR ÂżQG VLPSOH DIIRUGDEOH VROXWLRQV WR RSWLPL]H SURGXFWLRQ PD[LPL]H JURZWK DQG PLQLPL]H DGYHUVH HQYLronmental impact?
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
THE AUTHOR: Joachim Nachmansohn is an international fertilizer and soil & water management expert. Educated in Sweden with two separate masters degrees in both agriculture and soil and water management he laid a very solid foundation for his in depth research and immersion in plant nutrition, which now covers all big plant production niches such as forestry, agriculture and horticulture. His unique specialty is Demand-Driven Fertilization, which was founded on Wallenberg Prize awarded discoveries and then was passed along to him by great innovators and scholars. Through this lineage he is the primary and officially authorized representative and keeper of this gamechanging concept. Through his company Nachmansohn Consulting & Co he now, among other things, spreads unique clarity on the topic of plant nutrition, works with helping plant producers to optimize production, consults fertilizer producers and distributors, as well as contributes with expertise to different institutes. He is a published columnist and article writer all over the Anglo-American world and beyond, he holds lectures and educations internationally, and not the least is an appreciated inspirational public speaker and takes on international speaking engagements, in which he shares his insights, thoughtfulness and wit. Joachim can be reached at consulting@ joachimnachmansohn.com or visit www.joachimnachmansohn.com.
www.timberbiz.com.au
Kilns
Locally-produced kiln systems tick all the boxes
%
ellingen-based Solar Dryers Australia is the NSW designer/ manufacturer of a range of unique Solar/Gas timber kilns and Heat Treatment Units. SDA kilns have gained wide acceptance in the past 15 years with around 200
Bellingen NSW (02) 6655 2100
Kilns r 'SPN N UP N r )FBUJOH DPTUT BSF NJOJNBM r "VTUSBMJBO EFTJHOFE CVJMU r 0WFS VOJUT XPSMEXJEF r 4JNQMF BVUPNBUJD DPOUSPMT
www.timberbiz.com.au
units sold in Australia and abroad. 6L]HV UDQJHV IURP P WR P DQG WKHVH NLOQV DUH FKDUDFWHUL]HG E\ VLPSOLFity of operation, and heating costs well under half that of other kilns. The auxiliary heating system ensures that drying times are the same as any
roger@solardry.com.au www.solardry.com.au
Heat Treatment r $POUBJOFS CBTFE PS QVSQPTF CVJMU r 4JNQMF GVMMZ BVUPNBUJD PQFSBUJPO r .FFUT *41. SFRVJSFNFOUT GPS &YQPSU r %PDVNFOUBUJPO 1SJOUPVU
tween the panels and the heat exchanger other kiln, regardless of climate. &RQWURO LV YLD D VLPSOH 3/& RŕľľHULQJ inside the kiln. Heat is extracted from the water, manual or automatic schedules. which then returns to the panel array for Small Kilns re-heating. An instantaneous gas water heater in The smallest kilns in the range are the SG 10 and SG 22, 10m3 and 22m3 re- the circuit heats the water if no solar is available. spectively. Once a kiln temperature is selected at These small kilns are based on 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122; or the control box the system automatically 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122; refrigerated shipping containers. These are ideal for the purpose as they maintains this temperature using either are portable, well insulated and sealed, solar or gas or a combination of both. $W %HOOLQJHQ 5RVH *XP 7LPEHUV RSall inside surfaces are either stainless erates two 50m3 solar/gas kilns drying steel or aluminium. Container kilns are loaded using a PRVWO\ %ODFNEXWW DQG 6SRWWHG *XP â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve recently been running some track and trolley system. The stainless steel trolley is rolled out WULDOV WR IXUWKHU RSWLPL]H GU\LQJ FRVWV H[RQWR D Âż[HG WUDFN RXWVLGH WKH NLOQ ZKHUH SHULPHQWLQJ ZLWK GLŕľľHUHQW WHPSHUDWXUH it is loaded by forklift and then pushed and RH settings, and monitoring daily MC loss via sample boards in the kiln,â&#x20AC;? into the kiln. The kilns are shipped to site with all VDLG 5RJHU %XUNH 6'$ DQG 5*7 Initial heat up to 55 C is usually overthe components packed inside the connight on gas and uses approximately 140 tainer. Re-assembly takes around a day and litres. Carefully monitored venting then althe kilns is ready for operation. .LOQV FDQ HDVLO\ EH PRYHG WR D GLŕľľHU- lows temperature to be largely maintained by solar during the day, with 30 ent location at a later date if necessary. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 40 litres used to maintain temperature Large Kilns overnight. So, for a charge of 25mm air dried SDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s larger kilns range from 50 to 100m3 . These kilns are designed to cli- hardwood, subsequent kiln drying to ent requirements and manufactured in 12% MC takes about 10 days with a gas %HOOLQJHQ 7KH\ DUH WKHQ VKLSSHG WR VLWH total of around 500 litres or $350 for 50m3. where assembly takes about two weeks. This equates to $7 per m3 about The large kilns are sometimes com25% of the cost of conventionally heated bined in multiple units. AST at Kempsey has 13 kilns of 50 to kilns. Heat Treatment units 75m3 and Parkside Timbers in Qld runs SDA also uses shipping containers to nine kilns, each of around 100m3 capacity. AST is the largest solar timber drying build Heat Treatment units for ISPM 15 treatment of export packaging. Alternaoperation in the world. The heating system is the same in all tively purpose built units can be built to models but the number of solar panels DQ\ VL]H The HTU features a simple automatic varies according to kiln capacity. The array of solar hot water panels is controller which enables documentation mounted on the roof of the kiln or on an WR EH SULQWHG RU VWRUHG 7KLV VDWLVÂżHV WKH ISPM 15 requirements and most accrediadjacent building. Water is pumped in a closed circuit be- tation bodies are familiar with SDA units.
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
35
Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Gavin de Almeida on (08) 8369 9517 or email: g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au
Classifieds
FOR SALE -
Tigercat 630C Skidder
Engine hours are 15,000 Service history available on request. Selling with a front slash grapple and rear tow hitch for silviculture work. Price $115,000 plus GST Please call office on 03 5199 2768
Forest Equipment Specialist
File Photo
Timbco T445B & Hultins DFF head $71,500
Tigercat L822C
Dressta TD20M LT
Tigercat 632E Skidder
$412,500
$247,500
$Poa
2628 Timberjack Buncher
Valmet 475 FX Harvester
Komatsu XT450L-2
Valmet 895 Forwarder
CAT 525 Skidder
$203,500
$302,500
$324,500
$104,500
Tigercat H845B with Waratah HTH618C $93,500
Komatsu PC300-7
New Dressta TD15R
Tigercat LH855C
Tigercat L870C
Tigercat 1075B
Tigercat H855C
$198,000
$330,000
$478,500
$495,000
$352,000
$198,000
$27,500
1300 727 520
www.onetrak.com.au
36
John Deere 909KH
Timbco TN475E
John Deere 748G
Hyundai R250LC-9HC
$385,000
$82,500
$82,500
$214,500
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
All Prices include GST
www.timberbiz.com.au
Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Gavin de Almeida on (08) 8369 9517 or email: g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
READ YOUR
INDUSTRY NEWS
aftdigitaledition.com.au
FIREWOOD MILLS
For Information, please, call 0419-536 804 or email your postal address to info@ďŹ rewoodmills.com.au
Classifieds
CLEARANCE
Milling & Processing Machinery
ANYTIME, ANYWHERE SUBSCRIBE TODAY Visit aftdigitaledition.com.au
Dimpter 204 Optimising line
complete with infeed and out IHHG PXOWLSOH NLFN Rá&#x201A;&#x2021; VWDWLRQV FDQ EH VHHQ RSHUDWLQJ $38,000+GST
Tilt Hoist pack destripper
New model Easy50 available now!
ZLWK PXOWL %XQGOH LQIHHG DQG VWULS FRQYH\RU $32,000+GST YHU\ JRRG XQLW
Different sizes of mills with optional feeding table and drum cleaner. Tractor, Diesel Power Pack or Electric Power Pack driven models.
Rex Planer
FOR SALE
600x200, VG condition $35,000+GST
FOR SALE BY EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
MK Impianti 5) FRQWLQXRXV ODPLQDWHG WLPEHU SUHVV OLQH FDPH RXW RI 'RRU FRPSRQHQW IDFWRU\ JRRG VRXQG FRQGLWLRQ $42,000+GST
Weineg Redline Hydromat moulder
Southern Tasmania 140 Hectares of native forest regrowth with some minor species to be selectively logged. Coupe is roaded ready to be harvested with timber harvesting plan. Approx 40,000 tonne veneer sawlog, export logs, hydro poles & pulpwood.
Coupe can be viewed by appointment by contacting Kevin Muskett by email musketts@bigpond.com
$32,000+GST
Fullpower FP900 horizontal Finger Jointer
$92,000+GST
Austral Timber Group Contact: Ken Baker RU NHQ EDNHU#G\QDJURXS FRP DX
2 x Tianli 700 x 50 x 26.5 20 ply with rims to suit 860 Valmet Forwarder 2 x Tianli 700 x 50 x 26.5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (No rims) to suit 860 Valmet Forwarder P.O.A. Please email: Kevin Muskett musketts@bigpond.com
FOR SALE Eco Log 594E Forwarder Payload, kg: 20 000 Weight, kg: 24 500 Engine: Volvo Power, hp: 320 Crane: Cranab FC16 Reach, metre: 8.5 POA johan@scanforestry.com +61 (0)408 614 503 (mobile) ÂŽ
FORESTRY & ENGINEERING PTY LTD AUSTRALIA
www.timberbiz.com.au
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
37
Classifieds
FOR SALE 2012 Valmet Forwarder 890.3. Engine Hours: 9850 Well maintained. All Service records available. Very tidy machine. $275,000 + GST
Valmet 425 2007 Service records available 18” Waratah with Topping Saw $220,000 + GST
Valmet 378 Processor 2007 Good working order Service records available P.O.A
2010 R290LC Wrecking – To be sold as a whole (Engine & Hydraulic Pump area damaged through fire) Rest of machine in good condition P.O.A 1 x 395 Rosin Processor Head (2012) 1 x 395 Rosin Processor Head (2010) Both with computers. Well maintained in good working order Service reports available P.O.A
Elphinstone Log Jinker (1996) with adjustable pole Well maintained in good working order. P.O.A
2014 Tigercat ST5702 High Speed Disc Saw Approx 14,000 hours. 2 new top clamps. New Tigercat disc with new teeth. Pins and bushes have been renewed where required. Ready to go to work. Maintenance records available. $82,000 + gst
Sell your used equipment, advertise your tender, offer your real estate or find your next employee. For rates and deadlines call Gavin de Almeida on (08) 8369 9517 or email: g.dealmeida@ryanmediapl.com.au
SUBSCRIBE TODAY aftdigitaledition.com.au
INDUSTRY NEWS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE SUBSCRIBE TODAY Visit aftdigitaledition.com.au
POSITION VACANT GENERAL MANAGER Tarmac Group pine sawmilling Operation in Northern Rivers, NSW. The mill utilizes Scandinavian small log sawing technology through a chipper canter multi-saw line. It yields 80,000 tonnes annually. Experience: 10 yrs in sawmill mgmt Preferred but not essential: background in mechanical or electrical maintenance. Remuneration commensurate with experience inc housing and motor vehicle. Apply to: Laurie Spaulding manager.sawmilling@tarmac.com.au
FOR SALE TIGERCAT 1075C FORWARDER $515,000 + GST YOM: 2016 Serial No: 10751025 Hours: 2025 Engine: 001439827 Condition: Suit new buyer Currently working in the Bombala area
Phone: Hugh Gordon 0402034573
EnviOn Harvester Marking Ink 1000L Pods. Several Colours Available (Red, Green, Blue, Black, Orange and Yellow) no mixing required. EnviOn’s glycol-based and synthetic marking colours are eco-friendly and all ingredients are 100% biodegradable. EnviOn marking colours can be used with any applicator. Thanks to good lubrication and corrosion protection properties, the marking colour lubricates the marking equipment, avoiding seal leakage or piston wear and tear.
$2750 + GST and freight Hugh Gordon 0402034573 lico.logset@outlook.com
Contact: Kevin Muskett musketts@bigpond.com 38
READ YOUR
Australian Forests & Timber News September 2018
www.timberbiz.com.au
t n e m p i u q E y r t s e r o F h a t Wara Floor Stock on Hand Brand New 623C full Softwood Spec Harvester, TimberRite H16 controller, Colour Marking, ¾ main saw Auto tension, 404 topping saw, through hosing or dog bone link available, 360 deg full rotation. Location Melton Australia from AUD $265,472.00 +GST Brand New 623C Harvester
New FL95 %UDQG 1HZ 0HOWRQ Ã&#x20AC;RRU VWRFN )L[HG IHOOLQJ KHDG ZLWK PP ORJ FXW 5HDG\ WR UHSODFH DQ\ H[LVWLQJ IHOOLQJ KHDG SOXJ DQG SOD\ AUD $79,000.00 +GST
New FL95 Moving Saw Box %UDQG QHZ 5RWRUXD Ã&#x20AC;RRU VWRFN 7KH XOWLPDWH VKRYHO ORJJLQJ IHOOLQJ KHDG ZLWK PRYLQJ VDZ ER[ ,GHDO IRU VWHHS FRXQWU\ ORJJLQJ VKRYHOLQJ DQG EXQFKLQJ NZD $85,000 + GST
New Waratah 616C %UDQG QHZ & GHEDUNLQJ VSHF +DUYHVWHU 7LPEHU5LWH + FRQWUROOHU ô PDLQ VDZ $XWR WHQVLRQ WKURXJK KRVLQJ RU GRJ ERQH OLQN DYDLODEOH GHJ IXOO URWDWLRQ 5HYHUVLEOH )DEULFDWHG GHEDUNLQJ ZKHHOV /RFDWLRQ 0HOWRQ $XVWUDOLD from AUD $143,701.00 +GST
FL85 Series II $SSUR[ KRXUV /RFDWLRQ 5RWRUXD 1HZ =HDODQG
As is price AUD $40,000.00 + GST
NZD $69,000 + GST
Waratah 622B $SSUR[ +UV 7LPEHU5LWH +HDG RQO\ /RFDWLRQ $XVWUDOLD As is Price AUD $25,350.00 + GST
Waratah 622C
New Waratah SG360RS Grapple with Supersaw 650S
$SSUR[ +UV 7LPEHU5LWH +HDG RQO\ /RFDWLRQ $XVWUDOLD As is price AUD $120,000.00 + GST
Waratah Forestry Equipment 03 9747 4200 parts.waratah.com
%UDQG QHZ 0HOWRQ )ORRU VWRFN VPDOO IHOOLQJ KHDG LGHDO IRU VPDOO WRQ FDUULHU DXWR WHQVLRQ VDZ
As is price NZD $40,000 + GST
Waratah 622B $SSUR[ +UV 7LPEHU5LWH +HDG RQO\ /RFDWLRQ $XVWUDOLD
New FL85 Series II
([WUD KHDYLO\ UHLQIRUFHG PRGHO IRU WKH WRXJKHVW MREV LQ WKH IRUHVW DQG H[FDYDWRU DSSOLFDWLRQV 6WURQJ FXVKLRQHG F\OLQGHU UHGXFHV VKRFN ORDGV ô 6DZ XQLW 6& ,QWHJUDWHG PRXQWLQJ RI VDZ PRWRU 1R KRVHV LQ WKH VDZ ER[ 6LPSOH LQVWDOODWLRQ /RFDWLRQ 0HOWRQ $XVWUDOLD POA