Australian Forests & Timber - November 2018

NOVEMBER 2018

Incorporating AUSTRALASIAN FOREST LOGGER & SAWMILLER

Plan to turbocharge Australia’s forest industries – Page 3-4

Powerful new advocate for SA VicForests’ roadmap for FSC-controlled wood – INSIDE

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In the news

“Watershed� plan details how to turbocharge Australia’s renewable forest industries

“The goal is clear: a billion new plantation trees�

T

he Federal Govern- tainty it needs to invest in its ment’s new $20 own future and be prepared million National for the many challenges as Forest Industries Plan lays well as opportunities ahead,� the foundation to turbo- Minister Colbeck said.

Investing in the future charge Australia’s renewable “But only through investforest industries and has the potential to create tens of ing in the future can the forthousands of new jobs in re- estry industry continue to build on its achievements to gional Australia.

Minister for Agriculture secure the economic and soand Water Resources David cial wellbeing of Australia. “That is why in this year’s Littleproud announced the proposal along with Assis- Federal Budget, the governtant Minister for Agriculture ment announced $20 million and Water Resources Senator over four years to 2021–22 to support the implementaRichard Colbeck. “A key theme that came tion of the plan. We will also up during consultation was continue to negotiate and Australia will need to plant implement improved 20a billion new trees over the year rolling Regional Forest next decade to meet demand Agreements with relevant in 2050, particularly sawlogs state governments. “The plan will also support for building and construcsustainable tion.

The to naCoalition “Industry endorses access tive forests has heard this loud and the Government’s to supply valclear,� he determination to highly ued appearhad said.

Minisstart development ance grade prodter Colbeck of our 30 forestry wood ucts such said the delivery of the regions or hubs� DV ÀRRULQJ stair treads, plan would furniture, underpin growth in the renewable tim- boat building and architecEHU DQG ZRRG ¿EUH LQGXVWU\ tural veneers and features.

Employment opportunities provide the vision and cer“There are huge opportainty for Australia’s sustainable forestry industries, and tunities for Indigenous emsupport the sustainable for- ployment and we will be estry industries as long-term working with interested Ingrowth engines for regional digenous communities to unlock potential timber supply Australia. “The goal and the actions and deliver economic returns contained in the plan will to landholders. “The forest industry is in provide industry with the cerwww.timberbiz.com.au

a strong position to continue to grow and prosper, and the Coalition Government will be there every step of the way.�

As expected, the Federal forestry plan received widespread approval.

Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Chair, Greg McCormack described the plan as a “watershed moment� for Australia’s forest industries, which contribute $24 billion annually to the

Australian economy and employ around 120,000 people across the full value chain. “The plan, ‘Growing a better Australia – A billion trees for jobs and growth’ is WKH ÂżUVW PDMRU EOXHSULQW IRU Australia’s forest industries in more than 20 years and responds to our key policy priorities of driving growth in forest products manufacturing and innovation and putting forestry at the heart of Australia’s emissions re-

duction strategy,� Mr McCormack said. “This document addresses key challenges faced by our industries; in resource supply, recognition for positive environmental contributions, perception and training and skills. It’s excellent to see the new mantra ‘Wood – the ultimate renewable’ appears as a key part of the plan,� Mr McCormack said.

Continued on Page 4

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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

NOVEMBER 2018 Issue 7 Vol. 27 Established 1991 News Forwarders ForestTECH Ponsse Profile Guest Columnist Classifieds

“Watershed” plan details how to turbocharge Australia’s renewable forest industries

“Australia already imports about a third of the softwood framing we need for our houses. This new Plan

won’t change that situation overnight but it is finally a step in the right direction.

“We know the Government wants to be sure that its goal of a billion trees becomes a reality and not just a slogan and we look forward to helping ensure that the measures are indeed now put in place which will deliver the right trees in the right places at the right scale.

“The $20 million announced in the 2018-19 Federal Budget to progress the Plan is an important down payment to kickstart this vision, and it will require ongoing commitment from industry and all levels of Government to ensure this opportunity is not squandered,” Mr McCormack said.

Kangaroo Island Plantation Timbers is yet another business to welcome the billion tree plan.

John Sergeant, KIPT Managing Director, said several initiatives in the Plan were of direct relevance to KIPT: The overall goal of increasing plantations by about a billion trees over 10 years (a 20 per cent increase to meet surging demand for timber products); The commitment to review the current rainfall rules that effectively exclude plantation forestry from the Emissions Reduction Fund, thereby putting forestry at the heart of Australia’s emissions reduction strategy; The commitment to increase farm forestry as a way of boosting and diversifying farm incomes and increasing wood supply.

He said each of these initiatives had potential for Kangaroo Island; to underpin future growth and profitability.

Ŷ Sergeant

Ŷ Colbeck

Continued from Page 3 3-16 18-26 27 28-31 32 33-35

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“Industry welcomes the Government’s focus on ensuring this additional one billion trees over 10 years will be planted in the right places at the right scale and with the right partnership models which properly reward farmers with certainty about the returns.

“Industry also endorses the Government’s determination to start development of our 30 forestry regions or hubs. We need to ensure we have the greatest chance of maximising the value in downstream Australian jobs – and that will happen if the trees are located close to processing facilities. The Government plans to ‘pilot’ a hub and we look forward to understanding more about this aspect of the plan.

“We also welcome the two additional National Institute for Forest Products Innovation (NIFPI) centres announced in the Plan,” he said.

“AFPA has long identified the positive contribution production trees can also make to Australia’s carbon reduction targets and AFPA is delighted that the Government has committed to reviewing an artificial annual rainfall barrier which is working against farmers and landowners gaining carbon credits for participating in production forestry – a review which now has bipartisan support,” Mr McCormack said.

A step in the right direction

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Ŷ Littleproud

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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In the news

Forest industry at crossroads

Victorian timber industry desperately needs an overhaul Victorian sawmillers have called for an overhaul of the state’s timber industry, removing a reliance on native forests in favour of state-owned plantations. Five companies from the state’s east and north east wrote an open letter to the Premier pushing for changes they say are necessary for the $7.3 billion industry’s future.

The changes include: A transition to plantation-

supplied timber by 2040.

The abolition of clear-fell logging of native forests coups larger than 20 hectares.

Government investment to make mills more efficient.

Legislation of timber supply arrangements.

Improved standards.

Assistance for worker reskilling and relocation.

Exit packages for businesses and contractors.

“We need surety from the government that funds will be available to the industry so that we can invest in new equipment to accommodate for both native and plantation supplies,� a spokesperson for the group said.

The letter (the first foray into a letter to the premier was published in Australian Forests & Timber News back in May) from Fenning Timbers, Ryan and

McNulty, Dindi Sawmill, A.G. Brown Sawmill and Kelly’s Timber Pty Ltd of Wesburn (at that time Powelltown Sawmills was also a signatory to the letter) comes after more than 2,000 people signed a petition over concerns of dwindling supplies and insufficient government protection.

However, the usual appeasement line was trotted out by the government with a spokesman

saying “they support a strong, viable and sustainable forestry industry and will consider the proposal�.

That proposal will obviously be considered along with the now ageing plan to invest $110 million in plantation establishment in the Latrobe Valley (it was first announced back in April 2017)‌ and all that before the State election on November 24!

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In the news

Forestry plan reaping benefits after three decades

U

ruguay’s 30-year plan to build a forestry industry from VFUDWFK LV SD\LQJ R྾ ZLWK IRUest products now the South American country’s biggest export this year.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Ranching Minister, Tabare Aguerre, said investment in forestry-related industries had been the largest in the country’s history, creating a major source of direct and indirect jobs. “We are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the forestry law‌ which responded to initiatives from many years earlier, and providing the industry with incentives to make ours a forestry country,â€? Mr Aguerre said.

The 1987 new forestry law, promulgated in 1990, vowed to create 200,000 hectares of SODQWDWLRQ IRUHVW ZLWKLQ ÂżYH years.

Uruguay’s forestry industry now includes one million hectares of plantations, accounting for 3.6 per cent of gross domestic product, 25,000 jobs in 1750 companies, average export revenues of $US1.5 bil-

8

lion and $280 million in taxes. by a general investment pro- is recovered from materials motion scheme. Foreign in- bought for civil works.

Smaller than Victoria Uruguay has also put in The South American coun- vestors are given the same intry is 176,215 kilometres in centives as local investors, and place 12 free trade zones, area – about 70 per cent the there is no tax discrimination which are exempt from nasize of the state of Victoria – or restrictions for transferring tional tax. In forestry, two free WUDGH ]RQHV ZHUH VSHFL¿FDOO\ SUR¿WV DEURDG with 3.5 million people.

Investments promoted by FUHDWHG WR EHQHÂżW WZR SXOS A report from the Uruguay investment and export promo- the Government’s executive mills operating in the country: Finland’s UPM tion agency, identiand Montes del Plata fying the country’s (Chilean, Swedishforestry advantages, th “We are celebrating the 30 Finnish). A free trade noted it was on the zone would also besame latitude as othanniversary of the forestry set up for a proposed er big forestry counlaw‌ which responded to third pulp mill. tries in the southern Regulation hemisphere. initiatives from many years Plantations and These included earlier, and providing the forestry are regulatthe south of Aused; the law declares tralia, New Zealand industry with incentives to is in the national and South Africa make ours a forestry countryâ€? itinterest to protect, and the central reimprove, expand and gions of Chile and create forest resourcArgentina.

The report said in the past branch have tax exemptions es, and to develop forest-based 25 years, the planted surface – between 20% and 100% of industries and in general, the area had multiplied by 30, the invested amount, depend- forest economy. ,W VSHFL¿HV WKDW LQFRPH reaching one million hectares. ing on the type of project and The forest priority area covers the score attained based on a from this activity will not be taxed; the value or size of forfour million hectares, 24 per number of indicators. &RUSRUDWH WD[ LV D ÀDW estry priority areas will not be cent of the country’s total agPersonal property included in assessed for the Wealth Tax; ricultural area. ¿[HG DVVHWV DQG FLYLO ZRUNV DUH and there is no rural real estate Investment scheme The Government’s forest exempt from the Net Wealth tax (tax on land ownership).

To be eligible for these tax policy has been underpinned Tax, and the Value Added Tax

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

EHQH¿WV WKH )RUHVWU\ %XUHDX – the specially created main reference body on forestry management – must approve companies’ development plans for the forests.

6SHFLÂżFDOO\ VKRUW F\FOH plantations (less than 15 years) with no pruning or thinning do not receive tax exemptions.

An important part of forest policy was the establishment of the Wood Forest Sector Council in the second half of 2010.

The council, which consists of employers, workers and technicians in the public and private sectors, was launched as a tool for coordinating and generating input to forestry policy.

Timber Investment Management Organisations (TIMOs) such as GFP, GMO, %7& DQG 6WDŕľľRUG QRZ RSHUDWH in Uruguay.

Forest product exports (wood, cellulose and paper) now make up 17 per cent of exports. Within this sector, cellulose accounted for 81% of the exports, with wood and paper respectively 15% and 4%.

www.timberbiz.com.au

In the news

SA forestry and timber industry gets powerful new advocate

Meet the person behind the position - Leon Rademeyer regime had come to an end with the release of Nelson Mandela from prison and the unbanning of political parWLHV $V D FRQÀ LFW MRXUQDOLVW , covered the political violence in the lead-up to the country’s ¿ UVW GHPRFUDWLF HOHFWLRQV LQ 1994. During this period I was fortunate enough to meet some of the international icons and major role players of the freedom struggle including Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu and FW de Klerk.

Coast for the last few years, but had to interrupt my studies due to work commitments.

However, I never abandoned journalism during my public relations years and continued writing as a freelance journalist for a number of magazines.

When I migrated to Australia I fell back on full-time journalism accepting a role as senior journalist at The Border Watch Newsgroup in Mount Gambier, SA. I was later proPRWHG WR FKLHI RI VWDŕľľ

their own minds. But, without journalism – imperfect as it is - we’d be back in the dark ages. Journalists set the news agenda, they inform, educate and entertain.

secure a sustainable future.

These include globalisation, population growth, evolving market preferences, transformative technologies and climate change.

In particular the industry Forestry interests should be in a position to My grandfather was a EHQHÂż W IURP WKH HPHUJLQJ woodworker and his side global bioeconomy which of the family worked in the will revolutionise the way in forestry industry, including ZKLFK ZRRG DQG ZRRG Âż EUH as larger sawmill owners. In are utilised. We will have to that sense forestry has always improve our productivity and competitiveness to capitalise been part of my upbringing. ,Q P\ UROH DV FKLHI RI VWDŕľľ on these emerging market Why journalism? at The Border Watch News- and product opportunities. was born in Uitenhage, Public relations and further a small town in the Languages and commu- group my duties included That being said, the bedrock studies Eastern Cape Province nication have always been being the group’s specialist of the industry will remain a of South Africa, but grew up $IWHU Âż YH \HDUV DW WKH QHZV my strong points, but I also forestry writer. In addition to sustainable supply of forest in the capital city, Pretoria, paper I moved to the ‘dark wanted to know “why the running a busy newsroom I resources.

The industry contributes to after my family moved there side’ of public relations for al- world was not working�. I was reporting on forestry isthe nation’s economic, enviwhen I was around four years most two decades. During this started reading my father’s sues of the day.

After a number of years in ronmental and social wellbeold. I studied journalism af- time I worked as senior media morning paper and weekend ter school and completed two spokesperson at a large uni- newspapers in around Year 7. this role I had a pretty good ing and as such plays an imyears of compulsory military versity and as manager: media As I grew older media ethics idea of the inner workings of portant role in many regional service as was required at the Dŕľľ DLUV DQG PDUNHWLQJ FRPPX and the “need for the public to WKH LQGXVWU\ DQG WKH VSHFLÂż F communities. Unfortunately time. As a journalism graduate nication at a medical scheme. knowâ€? became more impor- needs of every component in the industry’s image is lackI served in the South African I continued my academic ca- tant. However, as a practic- the supply chain - silvicul- ing in many respects and Air Force as a journalist and reer throughout my working ing journalist I also wanted ture, harvesting and hauling, should be promoted as enviphotographer after complet- life, obtaining – in addition WR H[SHULHQFH WKH QHZV Âż UVW timber manufacturing and the ronmentally friendly, socially ing my basic military training. WR P\ MRXUQDOLVP TXDOLÂż FDWLRQ hand. This meant being on the manufacturing of pulp, paper responsible and valued by the community. – a Bachelor of Arts in Afri- VFHQH Âż UVW WDNLQJ LW DOO LQ DQG and bioproducts.

First job In a nutshell the industry can Politics and Philosophy, reporting back to the public.

Changes and industry future needs to double and even tri0\ EDSWLVP RI ¿ UH FDPH a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Obviously true objectivity after the military when I in International Politics and a does not exist in journalism, Looking towards the long- ple its economic growth in the landed a journalism job at a Master of Philosophy in Fu- QRU LQ OLIH ,Q DQ H྾ RUW WR JHW term future I think the indus- next three decades. The good big broadsheet newspaper in tures Studies. I also pursued a to the truth the public should try needs to recognise that it news is that it has the potenJohannesburg in 1990. At the PhD in Futures Studies at the consult a variety of media on has to act as a matter of ur- tial to do so if we have the time South Africa’s Apartheid University of the Sunshine a single issue and make up gency on a range of issues to right policies in place.

South Australian forest industries have gained a powerful new voice to advocate for their combined interests with the appointment of Leon Rademeyer as AFPA SA Branch Manager.

But, there’s more to an appointment than just an announcement; you need to know more about the person, their aims, their hopes; their life experiences, so, this is what Leon had to say to Australian Forests & Timber News in an exclusive interview.

I

www.timberbiz.com.au

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

9

In the news

INTERNATIONAL BRIEFS Mercer to acquire Australiabased plantation owner

Drought assistance from the OneFortyOne team

Canadian forest products company Mercer International Inc. has entered into an agreement to acquire Australia-based plantation owner Santanol Group, the company said. Santanol owns and leases approximately 2,500 hectares of existing Indian sandalwood plantations and a processing and extraction plant in North West Australia. The proposed acquisition will expand the company’s operations to include plantation harvesting and the production of solid wood chemical extractives.

Timber industry transformation plan for Sarawak –major challenge is lack of workers The Sarawak government’s Deputy Chief Minister, Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, has said the State government is committed to securing a sustainable timber industry because the sector contributes a lot to the state’s export revenue. The minster said exports of wood products from Sarawak last year were worth around RM47 million compared to RM43 million in 2016. 2017 wood product exports comprised plywood (RM3.27 billion) or 53% of total wood product exports followed by logs (RM1.21 billion) or 20% of exports, sawnwood (RM803 million) or 13% and fibreboard (RM308 million) or around 5%. Despite this good performance the minister outlined the need to move to the export of high-value wood products and to support this transformation of the timber sector the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation has developed a “Timber Industry Transformation Plan’

Forest structure maintained through controlled harvesting More than 32,000 trees have been logged in the past decade in concessions in the Amazon Jamari National Forest. The Jamari National Forest was the first in the country where logging was controlled through government approved management plans. Of the entire Jamari National Forest area only around 30% is available for harvesting and two companies won concession rights for a 40-year period. All harvesting is planned one year in advance and must be approved by the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA).

Investigations reported by the Federal University of RondĂ´nia illustrate that damage to the forest as a result of harvesting quickly recovers.

New Zealand and Russia main sources of logs New Zealand was the main log supplier to China in the first quarter of 2018 accounting for 25% of total log imports. Imports from New Zealand totaled 3.66 million cubic metres in the first quarter of 2018, a year on year increase of 16%. The second ranked supplier of logs was Russia at 2.96 million cubic metres, accounting for about 21% of the national total. In the first quarter of 2018 a year on year decrease of 1% was recorded for log imports from Russia.

10

N

ormally the trucks leaving OneFortyOne’s Jubilee Highway Sawmill are loaded with crates of timber for building houses. However, the sawmill team recently dispatched two crates of donated goods to help farming families in drought-stricken NSW. OFO’s Maree Little led the employee donation drive having seen the news. “For all of us living in regional communities, we know how important our farmers are, and we all know what it’s like to go through a tough time. We know that commu-

nity help during these times is just so important and appreciated.�

With this in mind, Maree reached out to the charity “Drought Angels� and got a list of items that were desperately needed. These ranged from non-perishable food items such as tea, cereal and sauce, through to mens and women’s toiletries, cleaning products and even items for children like craft supplies and toothpaste. “The call was put out to the OFO teams at the mill and the forests for donations, and I was overwhelmed by everyone’s support,� said Maree.

“It has been a really humbling experience to see my colleagues jump on board in such a big way. I was expecting people would donate the odd item or two, but most people brought in shopping bags full of goods.�

The donated goods left the Jubilee Highway Sawmill on a Linfox Mount Gambier truck heading to Victoria where “Need for Feed-Disaster Relief� delivered the donations to those in need.

Need for Feed is a Lions Club project that has been supporting communities and farmers D྾HFWHG E\ ¿UH GURXJKW DQG ÀRRG UHOLHI VLQFH

Australia’s forest industries are safe and skilled

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usinesses of all sizes across Australia’s forest industries have joined in a united approach to lift safety standards across the board.

Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Chair Greg McCormack, said the Safe and Skilled program demonstrated that Australia’s forest industries are committed to safety and investing in the skills needed to ensure its workers are safe. “Together with the Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA) our members have signed up to essential training standards covering the breadth of activities in the forest industry,� Mr McCormack said. “A common approach to training will recognise the importance of having the right skills to do the job across industry and mobilise our industry’s workforce,� Mr McCormack concluded.

Along with common training standards, AFPA and AFCA launched 12 lifesaving

commitments to guide behaviour in the industry.

AFCA Chairman Mr Adan Taylor said the lifesaving commitments draw attention of workers to critical risks in the industry and ensure that baseline safety rules are common everywhere. “The Australian forest industry is varied and unique, but in every forest, on every road, at every log dump, the industry demands the same

high level of safety. Our workers know the key risks they need to be aware of and the Safe and Skilled program is an excellent reminder of those risks and necessary behaviours to keep everyone safe at work,� Mr Taylor said. “Making sure all forest workers get home to their families at the end of each working day is the driving force behind Safe and Skilled,� Mr Taylor concluded.

Ĺś Adan Taylor

Ĺś Greg McCormack.

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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In the news

Latest technology a ‘game-changer’ in bushfire prevention

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orestry Corporation has enlisted the latest drone technology to better protect NSW’s State forHVWV IURP EXVK¿ UHV Drone technology means )RUHVWU\ &RUSRUDWLRQ VWD྾ FDQ quickly identify the location DQG VWDUW PDQDJLQJ D EXVK¿ UH before it requires a larger response.

The innovation is a game FKDQJHU LQ Âż UH VSRWWLQJ DQG management, said Forestry

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Corporation Fire Training and 2SHUDWLRQV 2ŕľś FHU $GULHQ Thompson. “Our trained drone operators can deploy a drone in minutes WR JHW DQ DFFXUDWH Âż UH ORFDWLRQ and start to understand its behaviour,â€? Mr Thompson said. Âł:KLOH WKLV PDNHV Âż UH Âż JKWLQJ PRUH Hŕľľ HFWLYH LW DOVR means we have fewer people on the ground in dangerous conditions. A drone operator can quickly identify where

Âż UHV DUH DQG VHQG FUHZ GLUHFWO\ to the location, rather than havLQJ VWDŕľľ GULYH DURXQG WU\LQJ WR locate it. “We had an example in the Pilliga recently where we launched a drone to locate a EXVKÂż UH LQ PLQXWHV :LWKRXW WKLV Ă€ H[LELOLW\ WKH Âż UH FRXOG have quickly reached a dangerous size and required a larger and expensive response.â€?

Forestry Corporation is also using satellite technology to

TXLFNO\ LGHQWLI\ Âż UH ORFDWLRQ said Forestry Corporation InIRUPDWLRQ 2ŕľś FHU 'U (ULF Smith. “We can use drones to take a bearing on a smoke plume, drive a short distance to take another bearing and then use satellite data to precisely calculate the plume’s location,â€? Dr Smith said. “We are also looking at mounting thermal cameras to KHOS PRQLWRU Âż UH VLWHV DQG SUH

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

YHQW Ă€ DUHXSV “Applying this technology LQ Âż UH PDQDJHPHQW LV LQFUHG ibly exciting and will help SURWHFW RXU Âż UHÂż JKWHUV DQG IRU ests.â€?

Forestry Corporation has strict rules about where and when a drone can be deployed LQ D Âż UH UHVSRQVH $ GURQH FDQ only be deployed at the request RI D EXVKÂż UH LQFLGHQW FRQWUROOHU and its use is logged in the operations management system.

11

In the news

Trelleborg Forestry Tyres a perfect fit worldwide

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he latest addition to Swedish logging company WNK Skogsgallring’s collection of forest machinery is a brand new Ponsse Elephant forwarder, equipped with eight Twin Forestry T480 tyres. When fully loaded with timber, the vehicle weighs 45 tonnes. With such a heavy machine, it is essential to move around with FDXWLRQ WKH H྾HFW RI FOLPDWH change bringing milder winters has increased the risk of ground damage, soil compaction and growth decline. Wet soil and a 45-ton machine are a dangerous combination, however the Trelleborg Twin Forestry 7 R྾HUV DVVLVWDQFH ZLWK WKH ZLGH ÀDW SUR¿OH RI WKH tyre creating a large contact area, resulting in low ground pressure and less LPSDFW RQ WKH IRUHVW ÀRRU WNK Skogsgallring’s

owner Niklas Nannestad reports “Our sales contact at Ponsse recommended the Trelleborg forestry tyres. :H DUH VDWLVÂżHG ZLWK 7UHOOHborg tyres overall and about half of our machines are now equipped with themâ€?

He says the biggest advantage of the T480’s is the SHUIHFW ÂżW EHWZHHQ W\UHV and tracks. “The tyres have FOHDUO\ EHHQ DGDSWHG WR ÂżW well with tracks, providing exceptional grip. This is an important feature because we drive large machines and always use tracks to increase bearing power and decrease impact on the ground. The tyres transverse grooves also mean less slippage, longer lasting and better fuel consumption.â€?

It takes Nannestad and his colleagues just two to three days to clear an area and produce 900 cubic metres of timber.

Nominations invited for 2019 Regional Forestry Collaborative Leadership Program The inaugural 2018 For Our Future, Regional Forestry Collaborative Leadership Program, was an outstanding success, delivering professional-level leadership development to industry participants. Your company is invited to become involved in the 2019.

FWPA members have exclusive access to the first round of participant nominations. It is expected that people undertaking the program will have a solid industry background and the potential to fill senior management or advisory positions.

Structured around four fourday regional workshops in Tasmania, Gippsland, Northern NSW and Central-eastern Queensland, followed by a combined national five-day workshop in Canberra, the program will be delivered by the Australian Rural Leader-

12

ship Foundation and polykala.

It is hoped to have to have 12 participants in each region (48 in total) in the program which will run from February to June 2019.

Participants will be expected to attend nine workshop days, plus deliver pre-work and group projects.

This significant commitment of individual and employer time reflects the value and stature of the program and its anticipated outcomes.

To minimise barriers to participation, there is a nominal fee of $1,000 per participant plus personal travel costs. All other costs will be borne by FWPA. If you would like more information, or would like to nominate one or more people to participate in the program, please contact Jennifer Wressell, Director, 0417 440072. jen@miaonline.co

Ĺś WKN Skogsgallring owner Niklas Nannestad (left) and Lars Eriksson, Product Manager, Trelleborg Wheel Systems (right) Photo: Martin Olson

China interest in New Zealand forest and timber processing investment  The largest ever New Zealand forest industry delegation to China's showcase Global Wood Trade Conference has made the case for more investment in New Zealand forestry and timber processing.

Forest Owners Association President, Peter Weir told delegates at Chongqing that more timber processing in New Zealand, before export, reduced the overall energy and carbon emissions required to produce and transport the finished product. "There's also a particular opportunity for primary processing of pruned logs in New Zealand rather than the current approach of mixing quality logs with sap-degraded logs and a subsequent loss of value by both parties," Weir said.

New Zealand Forestry Minister, Shane Jones told the conference New Zealand was heavily reliant on access to

foreign capital and also had a need to substantially increase its forest reserves. He said this was behind the government creating a more streamlined process for investment in forestry using foreign capital and this created a special opportunity for those interested in working with New Zealand. He invited potential investors to consider connecting with the New Zealand industry representatives. This invitation from Shane Jones came at a time when there was increasing concern in China with the implications of the US tariffs. Numerous Chinese speakers at the conference referred to the trade war with the US and that they anticipated this to be a long, drawn out battle. Commentators at the conference believe the impact of increased US tariffs could cost China 1.5% of its GDP.Â

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

On the positive side, potential Chinese investors acknowledged the US trade problems were an opportunity to strengthen other trading partnerships and thus welcomed the invitation from Shane Jones.

New Zealand Forest growers and processors report constructive engagement with members of the China Timber and Wood Products Distribution Association - the hosts of the Chongqing Conference.

The CTWPD has thousands of members across China and there has been interest from the Chinese members in both the opportunities to invest in forests and processing in New Zealand, as well as securing additional wood supply. A number of the CTWPD group have expressed interest in a reciprocal visit to New Zealand later in the year to follow up on some of these options.Â

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In the news

Tasmanian forest industry growing again New research shows plantation jobs expanding

Ĺś Jacki Schirmer.

T

he Tasmanian forest industry is on an even keel after several challenging years, with a new report showing employment and spending have

stabilised after a period of decline, and are growing in some parts of the industry.

According to the report ‘Socio-economic impacts of the forest industry – Tasmania’ funded by Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) and the Commonwealth Government’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, a total of 5,727 jobs were generated by the industry as of 2017-18, including 3,076 direct jobs and 2,651 in other industries due WR Ă€ RZ RQ Hŕľľ HFWV The forest industry directly contributed more than $700 million to the value of Tasmanian output during the ODVW Âż QDQFLDO \HDU LQFUHDVLQJ WR PLOOLRQ RQFH Ă€ RZ RQ Hŕľľ HFWV WR RWKHU LQGXVWULHV were included.

The research was conducted by the University of Canberra, in conjunction with consultancy EconSearch, a division of BDO Advisory.

Lead researcher Associate Professor Jacki Schirmer exSODLQHG WKH NH\ Âż QGLQJV “Rapid decline in employment from 2008 has stopped, with job numbers stabilising post-2013. The overall stabiOLVDWLRQ LV GXH WR WZR GLŕľľ HUHQW trends, namely the decline in native forest dependent jobs GXULQJ WKLV SHULRG EHLQJ Rŕľľ set by growth in jobs in harvesting and woodchipping of hardwood plantations. “The forest industry remains important to many Tasmanian communities and it’s positive to see it recovering.

However, growth will only continue for the longer term

if there is investment in more downstream processing,� Assoc. Prof Schirmer said.

The new report also reveals 41% of jobs depend on native forest, 33% on softwood plantations and 26% on the growing hardwood plantation sector. Jobs are located around the state, with 38.6% located in the Southern region, 37.4% in the Northern region and 24.0% in the Cradle Coast.

Across Tasmania, the areas with the highest reliance on the forest industry for employment were Dorset with 9.3% of workers directly employed in the forest industry, Circular Head with 6.6%, Derwent Valley with 6.5%, George Town with 6% and the Central Highlands with 5.4%.

The Tasmanian forest in-

Information.

Intelligence.

Insight.

When you need to know, you need IndustryEdge

production, imports, exports prices, volumes, trends housing & other markets logs and woodchips sawn wood wood panels

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dustry generates more fulltime jobs than other parts of the Tasmanian economy, with 82% of those employed in the industry working fulltime in 2016, compared to 60% of the broader workforce in Tasmania.

While challenges were also reported in parts of the indusWU\ LQFOXGLQJ GLŕľś FXOW\ UH cruiting some types of workers, Assoc. Prof Schirmer said businesses were reasonably optimistic about future demand for forest products. “Just over half of forest industry businesses (55%) felt demand for their goods or services would grow in the next 12 months, and the remainder (45%) felt it would remain about the same.

No businesses felt demand would reduce.�

T 03 5229 2470 www.industryedge.com.au Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

13

In the news

Promising results for restoring biodiversity in dense regrowth forests One of the most comprehensive studies on thinning of regrowth available

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ew research on the impacts on biodiversity of ‘thinning’ White cypress pine trees (Callitris glaucophylla) has yieldHG SURPLVLQJ UHVXOWV Âż QGLQJ many positive relationships between the management practice and the diversity of species in NSW forests.

The project, led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and funded by the NSW Environmental Trust, with support from Forestry Corporation of NSW, is one of the most comprehensive studies on thinning of regrowth available.

DPI Principal Research Scientist Dr Brad Law said more than 200 species were recorded during the three-year study of the central-western NSW Pilliga forests. “Although silvicultural thinning is a well-known technique for management of

dense regrowth forests, few studies have assessed its impacts on biodiversity, especially in Australia,� Dr Law said.

Boasting more than 535,000 hectares in size, the Pilliga represents the largest inland woodland in Australia, with cypress pine being a dominant tree species in many areas.

The area comprises a number of State forests and Conservation Reserves “Research in the Pilliga considered the short and longer-term responses of vegetation structure to thinning, and WKLV Âż UVW SKDVH KDV UHFHQWO\ been published,â€? Dr Law said. “We also examined the responses of multiple taxa – from bats, birds and insects, to reptiles, non-volant mammals and plants – by undertakLQJ VXUYH\V DW GLŕľľ HUHQW WLPHV since previous thinning in the forest.â€?

An experimental trial was

established by the Forestry Corporation of NSW in association with DPI to measure the response of biodiversity WR WKLQQLQJ DW WZR GLŕľľ HUHQW stages of regeneration: early thinning and second thinning. “Biodiversity and habitat surveys were completed preand post-thinning, and are being compared to long undisturbed reference sites,â€? Dr Law said. “The extensive experiments revealed that habitat values, particularly the volume of coarse woody debris used for shelter by animals was positively associated with thinning. Flora and fauna responses were positive or neutral for each group, and when combined into a composite biodiversity index, the overall Hŕľľ HFWV ZHUH SRVLWLYH “Achieving sustainable forest management requires balancing production with biodi-

versity conservation. As such, there is now increased interest in thinning for positive ecological outcomes, including for biodiversity. “Through this research, we can now conclude that thinning in cypress pine restores habitat, as it can accelerate the development of many, though not all, habitat values.�

Dr Law suggests forest managers should consider applying thinning at patch-scales rather than across broad landscapes, noting that the trial considered thinned patches of only 12 hectares in size. “Unthinned forest regrowth contributes to the mosaic of forest structure, especially as it represented habitat of similar value to thinned forest for some taxa,� he said. “This highlights the importance of managing an assortment or patchwork of forest structure that will be suitable

IRU D GLYHUVH VXLWH RI À RUD DQG fauna.�

The study found that the main negative outcome of thinning was the loss of small dead trees, which provide hollows for insectivorous bats and reptiles in the forest. “Radio-tracking showed bats preferentially foraged in recently thinned stands, but avoided roosting there during the day. Even small dead trees can contain hollows and these are key structures to retain during thinning operations,�

Dr Law said.

In addition to a number of ongoing forest science projects, DPI will continue to track biodiversity over time at the thinning trial sites to assess the response of biodiversity as habitat structure changes.

For more information on the project, visit https://www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/info/forestry/ biodiversity.

Forest and field biomass could double in value by 2050 Finland’s Aalto University and VTT Technical Research Centre has signed a collaboration agreement on the CERES flagship program and took a major step towards a joint innovation ecosystem in the field of bioeconomy. The aim is to develop materials from renewable resources in order to safeguard a sustainable future.

The Academy of Finland has granted a â‚Ź9.5 million flagship funding for the first four years of the project. An extension funding for the next four-year period will be based on an interim evaluation. The total funding of the project is â‚Ź24Â million.

The CERES innovation ecosystem will create a unique foundation for new bioeconomy innovations in Finland. Plant-based biomaterial is the future plastics and, according to researchers, much beyond. The purpose of this ecosystem is to develop new materials, in particular based on lignocellulose and forest biomass, for industrialscale production of packaging, textiles and separation systems, as well as semiconductors, composites and solutions for energy storage. Â According to VTT's scenario calculations, if used to manufacture high added-value products, Finnish forest and field biomass could double in value by 2050. It is possible to do all this and, at the same time, reach the climate 14

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

targets set for the country. This scenario work is the first analysis of Finland's potential in the bioeconomy and its transition to a low-carbon economy, which takes account of all industrial and emission sectors.

The objective of Finland's national bioeconomy strategy is to create 100,000 new jobs in the country and increase the bioeconomy output by ₏40 billion by 2025. The research and development work to be performed under CERES will support the delivery of this objective and help companies to make new openings in the international market. VTT President and CEO Antti Vasara and Aalto University President Ilkka Niemelä signed a collaboration agreement to establish the CERES ecosystem. In this agreement, both parties emphasise their willingness to create a joint ecosystem in the field of biomaterial research, as well as create ground rules for successful cooperation. The agreement also aims to support the commercial exploitation of project results.

CERES will function as a virtual knowledge centre. It will develop new methods for biomass processing as well as material solutions based on these, and provide the industry long-term, globally cutting-edge R&D work. Â www.timberbiz.com.au

In the news

New chainsaw offers faster cuts with less effort

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ith the forestry industry worth $2.6 billion in Australia*, Oregon is now available exclusively through Briggs & Stratton to provide Australian contractors with the world’s best cutting systems. The upgraded PowerCut™ 70-Series EXL delivers faster cuts with OHVV RSHUDWRU H྾ RUW IRU KLJK ly-experienced loggers and skilled forest workers who require precision, power and speed to get through a hard day’s work.

The new PowerCut™ 70-Series EXL is designed to power through timber with

VSHHG Hŕľś FLHQF\ DQG SUHFL sion. Oregon’s patented cutter technology now maximises every cut, giving experienced chainsaw users a sharper, more durable cutting edge. “This upgraded saw chain is a prime example of how we’re working with industry professionals to best meet their daily QHHGV ´ VDLG %UHQGDQ *ULŕľś Q global product manager for Oregon Products. “The full chisel cutter is very popular with performance-driven professionals. Our aim with the upgrade is to create a chain that provides a faster, more powerful cutting solution and

reduces the amount of operator-applied force required to complete cuts.�

The low-vibration, full chisel cutter chain is engineered to utilise the power of today’s professional saws, ultimately reducing the force applied by the operator. The PowerCut™ 70-Series EXL features LubriTec™ technology to keep saw chains and guide bars oiled, for less friction and longer life, whilst the Gold Loop Start Indicator makes sharpening easier with start-stop idenWL¿ FDWLRQ The 70-Series EXL saw chain features include:

A proprietary multi-axis grind technology and precision-ground cutters to help the saw power through timber.

LubriTec™ technology that keeps saw chain and guide bar oiled for less friction and longer life.

Improved grind shape proÂż OH WR EHWWHU PDWFK WKH VKDSH RI WKH Âż OH PDNLQJ LW HDVLHU WR Âż OH a precise edge.

The Gold Loop Start Indicator that makes sharpening easiHU ZLWK VWDUW VWRS LGHQWLÂż FDWLRQ An overall design that reduces the force applied by the operator. “This chain is simply an-

other chapter in our legacy of innovation. 2017 marked the 70th anniversary of the company and the 70-Series EXL chain is a strong indication of how we plan to approach future product development,� said *ULྜ Q Oregon products are designed to increase cutting performance with minimal time DQG H྾ RUW *ABARES 2018, Australian forest and wood products statistics, September and December quarters 2017, Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences, May.

Built for Your Toughest Day FASTER. STRONGER. LONGER-LASTING.

SpeedMax™ XL .404� Cutting System 19HX Chain + SpeedMax XL Bar + Sprocket

Oregon products now exclusively available through Briggs & Stratton Australia.

Contact your local authorised dealer or call Briggs & Stratton 1800 356 632 BRIGGSandSTRATTON.COM

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Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

15

In the news

VicForests sets out roadmap for FSC-controlled wood

V

icForests has released the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) audit report (May

DQG UHDŕľś UPHG LWV FRP mitment to pursuing certiÂż FDWLRQ RI )6& &RQWUROOHG Wood standard. In conjunction with the results, VicForests released its FSC 2020: VicForests Controlled Wood Roadmap outlining the steps for VicForests to achieve its goal and address non-conformities raised in the audit.

VicForests will resubmit for FHUWLÂż FDWLRQ RI )6& &RQWUROOHG Wood standard by 2020.

VicForests has been separately FHUWLÂż HG VLQFH XQGHU WKH 5HVSRQVLEOH :RRG FHUWLÂż FDWLRQ (the Australian Forestry Standard) which is endorsed by the international Program for the Endorsement of Forest CertiÂż FDWLRQ 3()& Âą WKH ODUJHVW such system in the world covering around 240 million hectares of forest across 30 countries and equating to around two-thirds of the world's WRWDO FHUWLÂż HG IRUHVW DUHD The FSC-Controlled Wood audit found VicForests conformed with 15 of 23 key indicators with 3 minor nonconformities, largely of an administrative nature; and 4 major non-conformities and one indicator deemed inapplicable. The audit raised some 16

areas requiring further atten- been one substantiated breach. the incidence is not high, tion to achieve FSC Controlled VicForests will strive for zero. VicForests aims to achieve “These results show that FSC zero encroachments outside Wood, being: Accidental encroachments FHUWLÂż FDWLRQ LV D MRXUQH\ WKDW authorised boundaries. We there remain areas for im- will examine how new techinto sensitive areas Clear-felling and regen- provement, and that VicForests nologies may help us do better. eration burns that impact old is well on its way to achiev- “We also commit to workgrowth, threatened species ing FSC,â€? Mr Trushell said. ing with stakeholders across and High Conservation Values “We have come a long other issues, such as harVicForests way. This year, the State vest methods.

(HCVs) Enhanced consultation with Government and VicForests has begun moving to a more announced a new policy to intensive engagement with stakeholders In response to the report, ensure trees over 2.5 metres communities and has underVicForests’ roadmap com- in diameter are automati- taken more frequent community group and local mits to improve operagovernment consultation. tions and engagement Mr Trushell said Vicand ensure the best posiwas now within tion to achieve FSC-Con“Results show that FSC Forests striking distance of addtrolled Wood standard.

FSC-Controlled The roadmap commits certiďŹ cation is a journey, ing Wood to its ResponsiVicForests to: that there remain areas EOH :RRG FHUWLÂż FDWLRQ Develop and implement new practices to further re- for improvement, and that “That is our goal by 2020 ,ÂśP FRQÂż GHQW WKDW duce boundary encroachVicForests is well on its DQG can be achieved.â€? ments There is 7.1 million Review harvest methway to achieving FSCâ€? hectares of public forests ods and regeneration pracacross Victoria, about 94 tices including in relation per cent of which is proto their impact on High Conservation Values and Old cally preserved and protected. tected in parks, reserves or is “The State Government has unsuitable for native timber Growth stands Revise and improve a new also announced extended areas harvesting.

VicForests harvests around of the Kuark Forest, including stakeholder engagement plan &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2ŕľś FHU Old growth, will be protected. 3000 hectares per year, or Nathan Trushell, said VicFor- “We are protecting habitat 0.04 per cent. This represents, ests accepts there is more work for threatened species in- nominally, the equivalent of 4 needed and that it would redou- cluding the Greater Glider in every 10,000 trees.

VicForests is separately cerEOH Hŕľľ RUWV WR DGGUHVV RXWVWDQG and Leadbeater’s Possum, ing issues raised in the audit. and we work with leading WLÂż HG XQGHU WKH 5HVSRQVLEOH Over eight years VicForests scientists to conduct much- :RRG FHUWLÂż FDWLRQ $OO FRP has harvested more than 2500 needed research into these mercial native timber harvestcoupes with a breach rate of 1 animals to better understand ing enterprises across Ausper cent – a majority of which their habitat requirements. WUDOLD DUH FHUWLÂż HG XQGHU WKLV encroach- system including Queensland, were self-reported. The au- “Accidental dit raised encroachments on ments are also a concern for New South Wales, Tasmania, rainforest, of which there has us. While the FSC audit says South Australia and Western Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

Australia.

High Conservation Values (HCVs) are protected through rigorous conservation practices including exclusion zones for WKUHDWHQHG VSHFLHV DQG EXŕľľ HU zones to prevent encroachment on rainforest areas.

VicForests protects any Leadbeater Possum or colonies through a 12.6-hectare Timber Harvest Exclusion Zone, equivalent to about 6 0&* Âż HOGV 7KLV SURWHFWLRQ has been consulted and agreed upon with a wide range of independent scientists, regulators and environment groups.

VicForests also applies Greater Gliders protection zones, throughout East Gippsland, of 100 hectares in areas where more than 10 Gliders are found in a one-kilometre line.

VicForests is committed to the highest standard of regeneration. VicForests replants all the areas that are harvested, replanting areas with the same trees that were there previously.

Over 8 years, VicForests has harvested more than 2500 coupes with a breach rate of, only, 1 per cent; and only one substantiated breach of encroachments on rainforest EXŕľľ HU ]RQHV Separate to the eastern Victorian audit, where most harvesting occurs, VicForests underwent a “pre-assessmentâ€?, or gap analysis, of the much smaller western Victorian operations. www.timberbiz.com.au

THE NEW FL95

STEEP-SLOPE SPECIALIST

Intimidate any steep slope with this specialist – the new Waratah FL95. Boasting an extreme downslope tilt angle, auto tension saw, extra-large cutting and grapple capacities, and weight in the right place for maximum carrier stability, it will help you get more work done faster.

With the FL95, you’ll see challenging work dominated from a new angle.

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For information contact: For more more information contact:

Waratah at 03 9747or4200 0800 4WARATAH 0800 492 728

Forwarders

New K121 loader and Active Crane for 20t Elephant King In-house research and development ensures quality standards

P

RQVVH KDV R൶ FLDOO\ launched a new crane option for the world class 20t Elephant King forwarder.

Building on the strength of the existing K100+ crane that has served the Elephant King so well, the K121 is set to take the Elephant King into a league of its own with a

18

massive 22% more lifting power and 45% more slew torque when compared to the K100+.

This increase in lifting power will enable installation of larger grapples up to 0.50m2 which will increase overall productivity of the Elephant King particularly when unloading at roadside or when loading trucks.

The K121 crane can also be installed as a tilting base crane enabling a maximum of 24 degrees rearward tilt, further enhancing its impressive capability in steep terrain.

The king post and boom ends are manufactured from a complete single piece casting providing superior strength and

reliability. Lighting has been improved to include a total of 7 boom and stick mounted lights WR GLUHFW OLJKW PRUH H൵ HFWLYHO\ to where it’s needed, all with ample protection.

Overall boom geometry is improved with even speed and power through the whole movement range. Extension glide pad

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

surface area has been increased by 15% providing lower friction and overall lifetime. All hose routing is now fully enclosed within the main boom and stick which creates a clean look but more importantly, less external hoses prone to damage from external hazards such as limbs and load bolsters which

www.timberbiz.com.au

Forwarders K121 Specifications Lifting moment - 195kNm

Slewing torque - 48kNm Reach - 8mt or 10mt Tilt angle - 24 back/12 forward

will equate to less downtime and lower operating costs.

Unlike most competitors, Ponsse manufacture their own cranes and loaders, giving the FRPSDQ\ WKH XQLTXH À H[LELOLW\ to design and create loaders VSHFL¿ FDOO\ IRU 3RQVVH PD chines. Added to this, research and development is “in house” which guarantees the cranes meet with Ponsse’s high quality standards.

Productivity will be further enhanced with the introduction of Ponsse Active Crane.

This is a system of sensors and modules integrated to the OPTI system which allows the operator to control the grapple movement instead of individ-

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ual functions separately. Active Crane is easily controlled using two control levers, one that controls the height of the grapple from the ground and the other controlling the direction of movement. This results in the operator not needing to control all functions simultaneously with the machine control system deciding to lift, fold and extend based on the inputs from the operator. This ease of use is particularly helpful for new operators with the ability to switch Active Crane on or R൵ ZLWK WKH SXVK RI D EXWWRQ Both the K121 and Active Crane will be introduced on the Elephant King for Australia in 2019.

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

19

Forwarders

John Deere’s newest forwarder technology leading the way

J

ohn Deere’s cut-toLength, Joensuu factory in Finland is experiencing its highest level of order intake ever which in itself has challenges to ensure deliveries meet global market demands and customer expectations.

When it comes to forwarders, Deere are working with third party suppliers and Dealers to minimize any delivery disruptions to customers.

There has been no change in the strategy when it comes WR ZKDW PRGHOV DUH Rŕľľ HUHG DQG sold in both Australia and New Zealand, but what has changed

is some very exciting new features introduced recently that make John Deere forwarders even more competitive when it comes to improved uptime, productivity and lower operating costs, with a lot of the new features focused on the operator.

Both the 1910E and 1510G forwarders feature improvements to cabin ergonomics, control system, powertrain and ERRP DQG DJDLQ Rŕľľ HUV HLWKHU the levelling and rotating cabin RU Âż [HG FDE YHUVLRQ Boasting almost 250 hp and D WUDFWLYH Hŕľľ RUW RI N1 WKH

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

20

1910E is the natural choice for those encountering challenging conditions and large timber ZKLFK LV H྾ RUWOHVVO\ KDQGOHG by the Deere CF8 loader. And, of course, your comfort is guaranteed by the revolutionary operator’s station which automatically levels and rotates ensuring faster load cycles, but LI SUHIHUUHG WKH GXUDEOH ¿ [HG cabin remains an option.

A larger 180-cmÂł work pump, larger drive motor with 209 hp, together with improved boom control ensure your productivity day in day out. BenHÂż WLQJ IURP LQFUHDVHG SRZHU DQG WUDFWLYH Hŕľľ RUW WKH * boasts all the attributes you would expect from a market leading forwarder. A powerful \HW Hŕľś FLHQW -RKQ 'HHUH PowerTech Plus, 6.8L engine delivering 209hp and high tractive force of 185kN combined with a smooth powerful boom and of course, the new revolutionary operating environment adds up to improved reliability, productivity and lower operating costs.

Recently introduced to Australia is John Deere’s new Intelligent Boom Control (IBC), a milestone in forwarder technology: child’s play to use, accurate, time-saving and considerably reducing the stress of the boom components. Once the Intelligent Boom Control has been switched on, you’ll never ZDQW WR VZLWFK LW R྾ DJDLQ Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia Pty Ltd +&$ VROG WKH ¿ UVW ,%&

system in Australia to Merrett Logging in Penola, South Australia. Plant Manager John Merrett said it was clear from WKH VWDUW WKH GLUHFW EHQHÂż WV would be considerable, “We Âż UVW KHDUG DERXW WKH ,%& RSWLRQ on the 1910E when two representatives from John Deere Finland came around to our workshop to look at our operations. We had a forwarder on order at the time and when they showed us a short 5-minute Youtube clip we decided there and then to cancel the order and put an order in direct from the factory even though we knew it would take an extra few months to receive the machine.

From that one short clip it was evident that the advantages of WKH ,%& ZRXOG EH VLJQL¿ FDQW ´ he said.

IBC makes it much easier to learn boom control, and enables speedy work – even for beginners. This is particularly handy for John’s business when starting a new operator on site. “The unloading feature of the IBC is particularly clever as it reduces the amount that the extension boom comes out. Our new operators seem to pick up the boom control even quicker with IBC as there’s less requirement from the operator to move several functions at once to get the boom where they need it, the IBC simply does it for them,� said John.

Now it’s not the machine that sets the limits, but the operator. IBC has made forwarding more relaxed and easier for

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

the operators to learn the boom function decreasing training time and getting to higher productivity levels faster. The most convincing fact has been seen in the operator’s behavior: ever since the system has been introduced to them, they don’t VZLWFK LW R྾ ¹ LW VWD\V RQ WKH entire time.

Vernon Mansell is the operator on the machine, Vernon has had a long history in the forest industry and has done over 15000hrs on our John Deere 1910E model forwarders already so for him to up his production practically overnight was a huge plus for our company. Vernon has said it feels very natural in the movements, an extension of your arm when picking up timber. He also said he generally feels fresher at the end of a shift as his movements are less when operating the boom,� said John.

The best thing about the IBC system is that it controls the boom as a whole and the operator doesn’t have to think about each individual movement separately. The boom functions smoothly as a complete entity without jerking, since the pump supply is automatically divided among WKH GL྾ HUHQW PRYHPHQWV )RU example, driving and loading simultaneously is easier when you don’t have to put as much focus on controlling the boom.

IBC also shows how the extension should actually be used.

The system is great at dividing WKH SXPS À RZ DPRQJ GL྾ HU www.timberbiz.com.au

Forwarders

ent movements. The boom is accurate and easy to operate.

Operators have direct control of the boom tip instead of controlling independent boom joint movements. The system also considerably reduces the number of tuning parameters needed and increases durability of boom structures and hydraulic cylinders.

Over and above the operation IBC has dampers in the boom cylinders which act as cushions increasing the life expectancy of the boom components. The other great factor with IBC is that customers are Âż QGLQJ WKDW IXHO FRQVXPSWLRQ has been noticeably reduced.

Says Simon Shackleton, General Manager John Deere )RUHVWU\ $VLD 3DFLÂż F DQG $I rica, “IBC comes into its own with the longer reach loadHUV VR LW LV RQO\ Rŕľľ HUHG ZKHQ cranes have an 8.5m reach or longer. Since the launch the uptake by customers in global markets has been tremendous and now Deere are seeing the same in Australia. Since the EHQHÂż WV RI WKLV RSWLRQ ZHUH recognized by Australian customers there has not been one single 1910E forwarder sold with 8.5M reach without IBC. Now the Intelligent Boom Control technology is available in selective wheeled harvesters, including the 1270G, John Deere’s most popular wheeled harvester model in the Oceana region,â€? says Simon.

Linked with the IBC all new John Deere E & G Series forwards now come with a whole suite of new technology which include: SBC - Smooth Boom Control New software algorithm for enhancing boom precision and reducing vibration, for forwarders. Makes operators’ www.timberbiz.com.au

work easier and load faster which boosts productivity.

Standard in new machines.

Cruise Control makes it possible to drive the machine at a constant speed, a feature familiar from the world of passenger cars. Standard in new machines.

New Generation Headboard Enables better visibility to the load area. Improves unloading speed in particular, as you can see better where to grab. Available for 1510G only.

TimberMatic F-16 Control System Designed to further develop and improve operation, the TimberMatic F-16 control system on both the E & G-Series )RUZDUGHUV LQFOXGHV D FRQÂż J urable user interface. The new software version enables service personnel remote access to the machine. This enables faster troubleshooting by service people, improving machine uptime.

New control modules, simple CAN busses and a streamlined electrical system improve WKH Hŕľś FLHQF\ RI PDFKLQH IXQF tions. The new control modules simplify the electrical system and bring added processing capacity. Additionally, the troubleshooting diagnostics on the TimberMatic F-16 system are more detailed and illustrative.

The CAN bus increases reliability of the electrical system with simple, fewer connections, a dedicated bus for the engine and the base machine.

As logging operations are DVNHG WR LQFUHDVH Hŕľś FLHQF\ control systems, such as the PPC, TimberMatic H-16, and TimberMatic F-16 systems, are invaluable to simplifying operations. When combined with other innovative solutions, like JDLink, which provides own-

ers with vital data, including machine performance, fuel consumption and engine load, forestry professionals can better understand and evaluate the performance of their machines.

TimberManager a New PDFKLQH À HHW SHUIRUPDQFH management system designed for forestry contractors and forestry companies. The most developed software on the market for forest machine data management and machinery control. TimberManager makes decision making faster and business operations more FRPSHWLWLYH DQG SUR¿ WDEOH Supports data gained from nonJohn Deere brand machines, too. To be launched soon in Australia JDLink remote monitoring system makes Real-time rePRWH DFFHVV TXLFN DQG HDV\ JDLink can handle one or several machines at the same time. Remote monitoring lets you check the location of the machine, operating hours, fuel consumption, the functioning of the motor cooling sysWHP DQG VR RQ ¹ LQ WKH Rྜ FH JDLink is free of charge for ¿ YH \HDUV IURP SXUFKDVH RI the new machine. Includes a remote update feature for the engine control unit. Standard in new machines.

Speed Boost Quick button to boost speed and tractive force by increasing the rpm. Convenient feature when approaching a terrain obstacle. Standard in new machines.

So,if you’re thinking about a new forwarder purchase and want to see what all these features can do for your business, contact Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) and ask them to show you the new revolution in the forwarding business.

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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3/217 Colchester Road KILSYH VIC 3137 PH: 03 9761 4155 FAX: 03 9761 4947 info@hardwoodforestproducts.com.au www.hfpaust.com.au 21

Forwarders

Ŷ Operator Jake Thomas with Sunchip Group’s second new Tigercat 1075C forwarder.

Sunchip boss lauds Tigercat reliability and service

M

ark Blackberry grew up on a dairy farm in Scottsdale in Tasmania’s north. He then moved to the Northern Territory to pursue a career as an AFL player. Sadly, two knee reconstructions put a stop to Mark’s AFL dream and he moved back to Tasmania. After a short stint back in his home state Mark moved to Queensland. In 1997 Mark started his logging contracting business, Sunchip Group.

The logging company quickly grew in size, but rising fuel prices and the introduction of the GST made things tough for the business in the 2000s.

“We [Sunchip Group] downsized, survived and then regrew the business from there,” Mark says.

The business prospered and

on 13 April 2016 Mark was inducted into the 2016 Australian Forestry Contractors Association Hall of Fame. Inductees into the AFCA Hall of Fame must have worked in the industry for at least 25 years DQG PDGH D VLJQL¿ FDQW FRQWUL bution to its growth and development.

Today, Sunchip Group is one of Australia’s largest stand-alone contractors speFLDOLVLQJ LQ À DW FRXQWU\ XQLTXH harvesting and steep slope harvesting. The company employs over 150 people, has 30+ trucks running 24 hours a day DQG D IRUHVWU\ HTXLSPHQW À HHW of around 40 machines. “We complete up to 1.5 million tons of harvesting and haulage per year with steep slope operations in Bathurst and TuPXW DQG À DW FRXQWU\ KDUYHVWLQJ

Ŷ Sunchip Group’s first Tigercat 1075C forwarder equipped with the 25ton rated bogies.

22

1075C forwarders. Sunchip’s two 1075C forwarders were WKH ¿ UVW PDFKLQHV EURXJKW LQWR Australia with the 25ton rated ERJLHV 7KLV VSHFL¿ FDWLRQ LV now standard on all new Tigercat forwarders coming in to the country.

Mark explained the decision to purchase the 1075C for“ Machines are a long-term investment warders rather than other options on the market.“Tigercat that will last longer than five years” products are not the cheapest option on the market but with includes four Tigercat 855 absolutely vital. Onetrak and a lot of other brands you need harvesters with 624 Waratah Tigercat are honest, straight to look at replacing the equipharvester heads, three LS855 forward and provide outstand- ment after around 5 years. shovel loggers, four 1075C ing support. I deal mostly with Tigercat machines are excepforwarders, two 635 skidders, fellow Tasmanian David Ha- tionally strong and reliable – one 632 skidder, one 630 skid- zell [Onetrak’s MD] and Phil they’re a long-term investment der, one L870 feller buncher Turnbull [Forestry Territory that will last longer than 5 Manager] from the Tumut of- years. The newest model forand one 860 feller buncher”. ³, ERXJKW P\ ¿ UVW 7LJHUFDW ¿ FH 7KH 4XHHQVODQG UHJLRQ warders have outstanding fuel FLHQF\ DQG WKH VRIWZDUH LV from Forest Centre about 10 has been very poorly serviced H൶ years ago. I had been running by other brands historically. great too”.

When asked how the 1075C Contractors in the region have been battling to get good ser- forwarders have helped imvice for a long time and there prove job productivity Mark is a huge area for improve- states “We operate in a lot ment. It’s great to see the sup- of extreme conditions so roport by Onetrak with the new bust and stable machines are branch opening in Rocklea and a necessity. The 1075C is a I envisage to work closely with stronger, bigger capacity forthem in the future,” Mark says. warder and as mentioned, the Mark visited the Tigercat fuel economy is fantastic. The factories in Canada a couple operator acceptance is excepof years ago. “I’m really im- tional. They’re just extremely pressed with how the factory tough machines and the relilistens to their customers and ability and NSW service is how they are willing to imple- second to none”.

Sunchip’s most recent adment new ideas whether it is parts or features. I’ve met a GLWLRQV WR WKH 7LJHUFDW À HHW LV lot of Tigercat representatives a 632E skidder and an LS855 both at the factory and during shovel logger. “I’ve had a their visits to Australia and closer look at the new 1185 how they work with contrac- wheeled harvester as well and tors and operators is outstand- I think it is absolutely perfect ing in comparison to other for Australian conditions. It is perfect for clear fall and thinbrands,” Mark says.

Two of the machines that nings and I think it will take ZHUH DGGHG WR 6XQFKLS¶V À HHW over the market moving forthis year are two Tigercat ward”, Mark concludes. operations in the Tuan forest region and Kalpowar state forest,” Mark explains.

Mark continues to talk DERXW FRPSDQ\¶V À HHW RI IRU estry equipment… “All in all we have close to 40 forestry PDFKLQHV LQ WKH À HHW 7KLV

other machine brands for years but I was quite disappointed with the other tracked and rubber tyre bases and their aftersales services,” Mark says.

“When I look at what equipment to purchase the people and the aftersales support is

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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TOTAL FORESTRY SOLUTIONS. Tigercat offers a full range of premium quality, purpose-built forestry machines specialized for high production applications. Tigercat customers are fully covered by Onetrak’s aftersales support including comprehensive field service capabilities, workshop facilities nationally, and an extensive parts distribution network Australia-wide.

Contact Onetrak today for all your forestry equipment needs.

www.onetrak.com.au

www.tigercat.com

Forwarders

Ŷ Leeson’s new Komatsu 895 with Comfort Ride

Komatsu continues to lead the way in Forwarders Komatsu 895: the most successful Forwarder in Australia.

O

ver many years Komatsu Forest has dominated the forwarder market with a progression of updated models leading upto the highly successful Komatsu 890.3 which became the leading and stable forwarder for many contractors.

This mantle has now been stolen by the Komatsu 895 with over 130 units being delivered over the last 5 years.

The standout features of the 895 over the 890.3 being the increase of capacity from 18 to 20 tonne which was supported by an increase in power accompanied by a new transmission, larger bogies, larger tyres, larger bunk area, new roomier cab and the option of “Comfort Ride” which is a suspension cab. This option is very popular in the rugged 6ZHGLVK WHUUDLQ ZLWK WKH ¿ UVW unit in Australia being recently delivered to Leeson Logging & Cartage.

In addition, Komatsu Forest has added a new middle model the Komatsu 875 with 16 tonne capacity, basically the same size as the 890.3 but with improved performance.

The perfect thinnings or small contract machine which was only released late last year with a half dozen models already being delivered.

Interesting to read some contractor’s comments on the progression of forwarder purchases from the old 890.3 24

to the newer models 875 and 895.

clear fall operation.

7KH À DW MRE ZDV D &7/ RS eration with a harvester and Leeson’s Logging & Cartage forwarder whereas the steep job required a feller buncher, Rosedale, Victoria Ricky Leeson, Managing harvester and forwarder -- the buncher was required due to Director ,Q ZH ERXJKW RXU ¿ UVW the operation.

The reason we picked the two 895s to support two contracts we had just obtained 895 was because it had suthrough HVP in Gippsland. perseded the 890.3 which had 2QH ZDV D À DW RSHUDWLRQ DQG been in production for a long the other was a steep pine time but we found it to always

be a very good forwarder. :KHQ WKH ¿ UVW RQH DUULYHG we put the 895 and 890 next to each other and there was a big GL൵ HUHQFH LV VL]H ,W ZDV OLNH the 890 and just been given a steroid injection.

Another good reason for the 895 purchase was that we have and still do have a very good relationship with Komatsu Forest.

The 895 on the steep job ran

tracks all around for virtually WKH ¿ UVW WKUHH \HDUV RI LWV OLIH the other 895 has worked in WKH À DW WR VWHHS FOHDU IDOO RS eration.

One thing we did notice ZDV WKHUH ZDV D GL൵ HUHQFH in ground speed between the 895 and 890. We spoke to KF about this and they maintained that the cycle speed maybe slower but at the end of the day we would put more wood

Ŷ The Komatsu 875 broadens the Komatsu Forwarder range Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

www.timberbiz.com.au

Forwarders

roadside due to the extra carrying capacity. They were right. If I remember correctly these were the second and third 895s in the country.

Initially being a new model we did have some teething problems with the 895s but worked with KF to resolve these issues.

7KHUH LV D ELJ GLŕľľ HUHQFH LQ bunk carrying capacity compared to the 890.3 and good fuel economy even running tracks all around.

We then bought another 895 in 2016 and two more in 2017 as we grew the business and updated equipment.

We have continued to purchase 895s due to the good relationship that we have with KF and the machines also perform as we require when it comes to productivity, operator comfort, fuel economy and availability. We have good support locally with DMM being the KF agent.

We have moved out of the VWHHS JRLQJ LQWR À DW FOHDU IDOO in both pine and blue gum which the 895 handles very well.

We have just ordered anothHU ZKLFK ZLOO EH RXU Âż UVW with the “Comfort Rideâ€? system. The cabin has a suspen-

VLRQ V\VWHP ZKLFK , Âż UVW VDZ when I was in Sweden with Brett Jones and another couple of contractors.

Âż HOG :H ZHUH JLYHQ DFFHVV to operate the machine with ‘comfort ride’ and I noticed how much better the machine traveled over the ground.

Komatsu’s “Comfort Ride�

We also spoke to the operaCab tors who drove the machine We were there to look at and they commented that at a concept machine; it was a the end of the day they felt betCombi machine which had ter and were more productive MXVW EHHQ SXW LQWR WKH Âż HOG ,W while they worked. It has also converted from a forwarder to started to become the normal a harvester within 45 seconds for forwarders in Scandinavia and vice versa without the to be bought with ‘comfort operator having to leave the ride’ due to a lot of the machines being bought by owner/ cabin.

During that visit we looked operators. I also saw it again at at the ‘Comfort Ride’ on a for- the Elmia show along with our warder in factory and in the Maintenance Manager.

The reason we have chosen to get a forwarder with ‘comfort ride’ was because we have an operator who has been with us over 30 years who looks after the machine as if it’s his own.

He is also coming to the end of his working time. He doesn’t want to retire yet and we don’t want him to either, so if this allows him to work more comfortably for another couple of years then I think it’s a very good investment.

We looked at other companies who have similar designs, Continued on Page 26

Ĺś Under the Comfort Ride cab

www.timberbiz.com.au

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

25

Forwarders

Ĺś Komatsu 895

Komatsu continues to lead the way in Forwarders Continued from Page 25

but once it was time to make the decision I really left it to the operator to make the call and he decided that the 895 seem to have the best cabin suspension system. :LWK WKLV EHLQJ WKH Âż UVW ‘comfort ride’ in the country we have had to place a special order for the machine, it turns up next week and will be working by 24 September. I believe this will be of a great EHQHÂż W WR WKH RSHUDWRU

Triple H Contracting Pty Ltd North East Tasmania Manuel Hall, Director, We run 2 Valmet harvest-

ers (425EX and 445EXL) and 5 Komatsu Forwarders (2 x 890.3’s, 2 x 895’s and an 875). :H ERXJKW RXU ¿ UVW in May 2014 and it now has 10,000 hours up. Our second 895 was purchased in February 2017 and it has clocked up 4,000 hours. The 895 was a larger forwarder than the 890.3 with bigger bunk and crane capacity and as a result more productive.

Then came the 875 forwarder.

We took delivery of the 875 in October last year. On this particular job we were running 2 forwarders, an 895 and 890.3 It replaced an 890.3. We went

with the 875 over the 895 or other brands because the 875 is a similar size to the 890.3.

We felt that it was more nimble and more manoeuvrable than a bigger forwarder, especially coming down on to side cuts. It was also a lot cheaper than the 895.

It’s more manoeuvrable and gives us opportunity to shift it to other jobs like a thinning operation, for example.

The 875 is a versatile machine. It can be put in any of our operations and provides great fuel economy, high productivity and less driver fatigue because of the comfortable and ergonomic cab layout.

It’s used in all types of terrain. Mostly in undulating rolling rangers in and around the Scottsdale area NE Tasmania.

Casegrande Lumber Pty Ltd Launceston Paul Morgan, Director The family business started back in 1978 (it now does harvest and haul and has a workforce of about 80) and the connection with Komatsu started in the mid-80s.

We bought the 875 early this year for forwarding eucalypt nitens in the north-west of Tasmania (in the Burnie area) for Forico.

The 875 (18 tonne) is a good, middle range machine that is currently working in clear fall.

The 875 standout is its manoeuvrability. It’s a nimble, manoeuvrable little machine; it’s got good operator comfort, great visibility, and the fuel consumption is better than expected. )URP ZKHQ ZH ¿ UVW PDGH the decision to go with the 875 the timeline was about 4 weeks to get it working on site.

We can’t speak highly enough of Komatsu Forest’s Tasmania branch -- their backup is exceptional.

Ĺś First Komatsu 875 in Australia to Triple H

26

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

www.timberbiz.com.au

ForestTECH

Continuous forest monitoring using daily satellite imagery

I

n the recent years there has been a marked uptake of remote sensing technologies. Drones and LiDAR have acquired a high profile. These indisputably have a place provided they are cost-effective, deliver consistent results, and add value. Not to go unnoticed, though is the increased availability of satellite imagery and technological advances that allow repeat assessment of forests at low cost. The main catalysts have been the launching of more satellites and the development of cloudbased processing engines. Between them, they can provide near real-time monitoring.

New satellites with the capacity to record and monitor vegetation change are now launched monthly. The so-called temporal resolution has progressed to daily revisits. By monitoring a given location repeatedly, it is then possible to detect subtle changes in vegetation vigour and identify underlying trends. Any such initiatives do, though come to involve massive data sets. Downloading and storing these for local processing can lead to unworkable delays. A dramatic step forward has come with the availability of cloud computing systems. These allow the petabytes of historical and recently acquired images to remain in the cloud. If the data remains lodged there, it overcomes any need to individually review, download, or process www.timberbiz.com.au

and analyse satellite imagery as was the norm until recently.

Indufor’s resource monitoring team has developed a Continuous Plantation Monitoring System (CPMS).

This can access both free and commercial satellites (such as Planet) to provide timely and accurate information. It has a ready capacity to assess large areas. CPMS assists forest planners in more efficiently deploying field activities, whether their purpose is to grow, harvest or quantify tree crops. Dr Pete Watt is Head of Indufor’s resource monitoring team. He observes that within the company’s activities the CPMS outputs save time and resources by allowing targeted field inspections. These are designed to quickly validate harvest areas and pinpoint areas of un-mapped change, disease or crop failure.

“For example, before going to the field, we run our Canopy Index (CI) model over the satellite image to check for any unusual deviations from expected benchmark values.”

Examples might include areas affected by foliar diseases, or, as shown in the illustration, pockets of wind damage.

Algorithms have been developed to provide automated monitoring of such planned operations as harvesting, roading and plantation thinning. These events can be tracked by comparing images acquired at different points in time. The detection al-

gorithm identifies the change and groups all similar pixels to produce a change layer that can be loaded into a GIS. The outputs include a summary of the area harvested to date.

The inclusion of daily imagery such as from Planet’s constellation of around 200 satellites makes the process of month-end area reconciliations a much less onerous task. The advances in the capture and processing of satellite imagery have removed barriers that have previously discouraged its operational use. CPMS captures the dynamic attributes of forests – the very characteristics that make them so valuable to us.

Indufor Asia Pacific (Pete Watt and Chaplin Chan) will be presenting at the upcoming ForestTECH 2018 series being run for forest resource managers, remote sensing specialists and inventory foresters in November. It runs in Rotorua on 14-15 November and then again in Melbourne on 20-21 November. In addition to the technology update from Indufor, presentations from the Interpine Group and Pan Pac Forest Products are being given on the collection, processing and the practical operational use by forestry companies of data being collected from satellites as part of the November series. Full details on the programs and technology series can be found on the event website, www.foresttech.events.

Bellingen NSW (02) 6655 2100

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Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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

27

PONSSE Profile

A stray, mixed breed hunting dog changed the forestry fortunes of a battling Finnish family In the late winter of 1969, Einari’s grey, ungainly, load-carrying forest tractor emerged from the village workshop‌ and Ponsse was born

By Philip Hopkins

F

inns are a tough people. They’ve had to ¿ JKW KDUG IRU VXUYLY al, dominated by Sweden for centuries and then by Russia for 100 years, only gaining independence in 1917.

Juha Vidgren, chairman of the board of directors of Ponsse, loves to tell a little joke.

A Swedish general, commenting on a huge battle with Russia, remarked. “It was a tough Âż JKW DQG ZH IRXJKW KDUG Âą WR WKH YHU\ ODVW )LQQ ´ As recently as the 1960s, Finland was a relatively poor agricultural country.

The house where Juha, the eldest son of Ponsse founder Einari Vidgren, grew up in the 1970s did not have electricity.

Einrai, born in 1943, was a farmer in Vierema, a small village 500 kilometres north of Helsinki. “The story of Ponsse and Einari - they are the same,� said Juha.

28

He was a farmer with a growing exposure to forestry.

With six sisters, Einari learnt about long-term relationships in everyday life and about responsibility, looking after the young, said Juha.

No hierarchy “All work has to be done – milking, cleaning. All work is important and you must do it well. All are the same – there is no hierarchy; all can communicate, there is no fear to talk too much – that was the spirit learned in the family,� said Juha.

This was the attitude that Einari was to instill into his company. “As we’re all part of the same company, everyone can call me Einari.�

A young man with no money, he went to work in the forest 40 kilometres away from home with his father. They went the whole winter there, often working in minus 30 degrees Centigrade, only re-

turning home once. “He was willing to work and learn,� said Juha.

In 1962, Einari bought his Âż UVW PDFKLQH D 5XVVLDQ WUDLO er, when he was logging 14-16 hours a day. By 1965-1970, Einari had 27 people workLQJ IRU KLP XVLQJ VL[ GLŕľľ HUHQW machines; he was one of the biggest contractors in Finland.

Logging was still a tough, lonely business. There were no roads, so work took a lot of time. They took their food with them, living in tents.

Their machines were bought on the market, but were continually tested. “Einrai was testing skidGHUV Âż QGLQJ D VROXWLRQ JRRG for Finland forestry companies. He had no luck - the machines often broke often, and two men were required just to Âż [ WKH PDFKLQHV HYHU\ GD\ ´ said Juha.

Einari decided to take matters into his own hands. With the help of a blacksmith - his

sister’s husband – Einari built a machine in nine months – “just like a human baby takes nine months to growâ€?. In those GD\V WKH V \RX FRXOG Âż [ cars, trucks and tractors with spare parts, and no money – EXW ZLWK WKH FRQÂż GHQFH \RX could do it.

The resulting machine looked rusty and dirty, and was low-framed. Just at this time, a stray, mongrel dog called Ponsse used to wander carefree through Vierema.

A mixed breed, ugly, and with a long grey body, it was an excellent hunter and never gave up on its prey. No matter what the weather or the terrain – heathland, marshes, or impenetrable forest – it would hunt.

In the late winter of 1969, Einari’s grey, ungainly, load-carrying forest tractor emerged from the village workshop. Curious villagers had been checking out its progress, and when one vil-

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

lager saw the new machine, he joked: “What kind of Ponsse is that?� The farm hunting dog was dirty, with low front and legs, a long way from each other. Thus the name of the company was born.

Einari started to operate with one machine. Foresters said it was the most productive machine compared to others in the area. “Einrai was in an excellent situation – he had no money, no education, had not been to engineering school, and had no place where to build,� quipped Juha. “The attitude was, ‘If we can build one machine we can build others.

With organising, can make things happen’.�

Ponsse was formed in 1970, -XKDœV ELUWK \HDU 7KH À HGJ ling company had some luck; in 1970, the local government invested in building a hall, the vote was won 8-7, and Ponsse KDG D KRPH 7KH ¿ UVW PDFKLQH was built in 1971 in Vierema. www.timberbiz.com.au

PONSSE Profile

The pattern was set “The pattern was set – being close to the customer and RQ KDQG UHDG\ WR Âż [ SURE lems,â€? said Juha. Ponsse was on its way.

By 1980, the company had built a new part of factory, having produced 50 machines LQ WKH Âż UVW \HDUV Âż YH D year .

Six years later came a most important milestone for the FRPSDQ\ Âą WKH Âż UVW KDUYHVWHU machine was built. Einari VDLG RI WKH Âż UVW KDUYHVWHU KHDG in 1986: “Let’s make it ourVHOYHV ,W PXVW JUDSSOH D WUHH like a bear, and the log must pass through with a good speed.â€? :LWKLQ Âż YH \HDUV SHU cent of the machines were harvesters. With that grew the need for technology, exact measurement, and exact cutting technology.

In 1993, Ponsse became the Âż UVW FRPSDQ\ WR EULQJ WKH SHU sonal computer into a forestry machine. ,Q LW ZDV WKH Âż UVW WR send information from the PDFKLQH WR KHDG Rŕľś FH ,W ZDV the beginning of big data, which is now the norm.

7KH KDUYHVWHU DQG WKH Âż UVW machine that Einari made are both on display in the paddocks outside the family farm.

Ponsse’s niche market has been to specialise in the sales, manufacture, servicing and technology of cut-to-length forest machines.

The company, which has www.timberbiz.com.au

now more than 1500 employees, is still controlled by the Vidgren family – Juho’s brothers have executive roles.

A minority of shares trade on the Finnish stock market.

Factory expansion The sales and service network covers 40 countries, with 180 dealers, while exports make up 77 per cent of net sales.

The machines are all produced at Vierema village in the company factory, which has just undergone a 40 million Euro expansion. It is now four hectares in size. Since 2010, Ponsse has invested about 82 million Euros in product development.

The chief executive, Juho Nummela, said the business environment was dynamic, affected by various megatrends.

These included technological changes - new products, digitisation, machine structure, materials, hydraulics and the level of automation. “Will there ever be a machine with no operator? We don’t know, it’s impossible to predict,� he said.

Longer term trends were climate change and the sustainability crisis. “Forests can be used as a CO2 positive,� he said, as they stored carbon dioxide as they grew.

Juho said worldwide, the sawmill industry was growing at 3.2 per cent a year, with Asia a key to growth, driven by the big demand for pulp.

The Northern Hemisphere

had a huge demand for sawn and round wood, while Russia was a big exporter of wood to Asia and China. “More wood will be cut.

There is a need for more harvesting and thus new machines,� he said.

The market for machines varied. Some logging contractors had up to 10 machines, ZKLOH Ă€ HHW ORJJHUV LQ VRPH countries had up to 50 machines. Industrial loggers in Latin America and Russia serviced big pulp mills. “The industry will change, the product and service ofIHU QHHG WR EH GLŕľľ HUHQW ´ VDLG Juho.

This would drive the drive for new dealers, improved cooperation, and the growth of networks and distribution.

Development “Continuous development is the key. Why should Ponsse products be selected above others? Ponsse in a forest industry country, with sales, service and technology, exporting to France, Sweden, Russia, Germany, North and South America,� he said.

Juho said the GFC had hit Ponsse hard, its turnover falling to 146 million Euro in 2009. Yes within a decade, turnover had reached more than 600 million Euro, with 2017 a record year for Ponsse. “We sold more machines than ever before, and turnover from maintenance services was at a record high,� he said. “The Russian market was par-

ticularly strong and was for WKH ¿ UVW WLPH WKH ZRUOGœV ODUJ est market for cut-to-length forest machines.�

Juho said Ponsse had resisted the temptation to increase production volumes too quickly. “By opting instead for modest growth, we were able to maintain the high quality of our products and services while at the same time upgrading our product range with features requested by customers,� he said.

Key to success Customers were a key to success, a philosophy outlined by Einari, who had said: “Practice is the best teacher. And the best specialists are machine operators. It is worthwhile paying close attention to what they say and to keep their words well in mind.�

Following on from this, Juho said Ponsse’s operations were driven by the needs of foreign markets more strongly than ever before. “It is essential to have a good understanding of the requirements for harvesters in each particular market, so that the products will be suitable for local harvesting conditions,� he said.

The reality of change meant that 20 per cent of Ponsse’s operation was a service business – double that from the 2008-10 period.

At the same time, 46 per FHQW RI VWDŕľľ ZRUNHG RQ UH search and development,

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

particularly on automation, softwoods and hardwoods, personal computers and computer systems, and hydraulics. “Ponsse’s strategy is to focus on customers, to be a SURÂż WDEOH DQG FRQWLQXRXVO\ developing company, and to invest in product technology and service subsidiaries,â€? said Juho. “There is a strict focus on cut-to-length (CTL). We are not an agricultural machinery company. We focus on what we know and understand.â€?

Juho emphasised that Ponsse did not just not just sell machines. “We are into service, spare parts and training. It’s a long process – there must be interest from partners,â€? he said. “The order book is growing, but the biggest obstacle is the long delivery time. All markets are positive at the moment. Our target is to be Âż UVW RU VHFRQG DQG KDYH DW least 30 per cent market share.

7KHUH DUH QR H[FXVHV ´ Juho added for good measure: “We believe we have been making the best forest machines in the world since 1970.â€? ** The author was a guest of Ponsse at the world premiere and factory opening in Vieremä, Finland, to see the prelaunch of the new PONSSE models, participate in the factory opening and get an introduction to the production of PONSSE forest machines.

More will be featured in the next edition.

29

PONSSE Profile

CVT power transmission and active frame cabin suspension raise productivity to an entirely new level Lower fuel consumption and higher tractive force

By Philip Hopkins

“This means that the traditional switching between the slow o be radical in innoIt’s the next-generation for- and fast gear is no longer necvation is important warder whose strengths in- essary,� Juho said.

Switch without having to for Ponsse, says chief clude the fast speed and high executive Juho Nummela. “We Hŕľś FLHQF\ JLYLQJ LW KLJKHU stop “You can switch to any need some risk in new prod- productivity, even with a load speed without having to stop ucts.â€? capacity of 16 tonnes.

The company believes it Juho said, unprecedented – naturally depending on the has done just that with the new in the forest, the CVT power driving situation.�

In a machine with CVT products it has launched on the transmission and active frame market in 2018-19 – the Bison cabin suspension raised pro- transmission, the traditional forwarder, the revamped Scor- ductivity to an entirely new hydrostatic power transmission pion, the Cobra and the Fox, level, especially with long can be replaced with a separate CVT gear system. along with innovations in seat transport distances. “This enables the lower fuel design, mapping, engines, war“With the new CVT power ranty conditions and mobile ap- transmission matching the consumption and higher tracplications. driving speed and engine load WLYH IRUFH ZKRVH EHQHÂż WV DUH The Bison is a particular to the situation, high productiv- revealed especially when drivfavorite. “The new Bison can ity can be achieved at low fuel ing up steep hills or in soft terrain,â€? Juho said. go from zero to 20kph with no consumption,â€? he said.

As well, the Bison has modThe CVT technology changJHDU FKDQJH ¹ WKH ¿ UVW WLPH HYHU in a forest machine,� said Juho. es the gear ratio steplessly. ern, high-torque, Mercedes

T

30

Next-generation

Benz engines, giving the machine more power. The loadbearing capacity of the Bison is 16 tonnes.

The Bison’s large load space and a loader whose light touch makes it easier to use, is deVLJQHG WR HQVXUH Hྜ FLHQW ORDG handling at all work sites.

Ponsse maintains that the Bison is still comfortable for the driver to handle despite the increased driving speed. The cabin suspension, new for forest machines, aims to eliminate Hŕľś FLHQWO\ DQ\ ODWHUDO VZLQJV Dŕľľ HFWLQJ WKH GULYHU “The Ponsse Active Frame system (a suspension unit for machines with eight wheels) helps the driver keep alert and productive for hours on end, even at high speeds,â€? Juho said.

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

New technology The Scorpion harvester is well known to customers, with more than 700 in the Âż HOG 7KH QHZ HLJKW ZKHHO Scorpion however, has an entirely changed layout. It looks the same, but includes a lot of new technology.

Engine, hydraulic and control systems have gone through extensive changes.

The hydraulic system of new Scorpion comes with 62 per cent larger hydraulic lines. “This makes the Scorpion even more productive with lower fuel consumption,� said Juho.

The new Ponsse Fox harvester has been designed with the latest technology so that

www.timberbiz.com.au

PONSSE Profile

it is particularly suitable for soft terrain and any demanding conditions.

New features are weight distribution for easier travel on soft ground, increased tractive force, more power at high speeds, a larger hydraulic system for smoother work, and a strong frame structure.

Juho said the Fox could easily tackle harvesting challenges due to its accurate and powerful crane, good visibility, great stability and low surface pressure. “Ponsse Fox is right at home on thinning sites and soft terrain. The powerful, easy-to-use crane is located near the cabin, enabling excellent visibility to the work area,� he said.

The powerful engine, large 210 cubic centimetre workLQJ SXPS DQG Hŕľś FLHQW K\ draulic system aim to create XQSDUDOOHOHG Hŕľś FLHQF\ IRU the machine. “Together, these yield smooth power with low fuel consumption,â€? said Juho.

The frame lock, using hydraulic cylinders, acts as a shock absorber during driving. Juso said the Fox’s special strength was its strong, reliable and easy-to-handle Ponsse C44+ parallel crane,

www.timberbiz.com.au

located in the middle of the machine.

market is a long bogie option for Ponsse’s 8-wheel Wisent, (ON DQG %Xŕľľ DOR PRGHOV LQ Great efďŹ ciency tended for harvesting in soft Âł7KH FUDQHÂśV JUHDW Hŕľś conditions.

With a hub distance of up ciency enables excellent fuel economy and high productiv- to 1890 millimetres, the long bogie reduces the surface ity,� he said.

The new Ponsse Cobra har- pressure of a machine with vester is a machine designed tracks by up to 17 per cent WR EH YHUVDWLOH DQG Hŕľś FLHQW LQ compared to a standard bogie. varying conditions.

A new loader for Elephant The eight-wheel machine has extensive equipment se- and Elephant King forwardlection designed to enable a ers is also on the market. The wide variety of cutting and K121 loader combines high slewing power and lifting work methods.

Powered by a six-cylinder capacity, increased reach and engine and with a large work- new loader geometry.

Juho said these features ing pump, the Cobra can work in various conditions. resulted in a loader with the FLHQF\ LQ The low surface pressure KLJKHVW RYHUDOO Hŕľś aims to guarantee traction the market, enabling quick loading and unloading. even on soft ground.

The new loader aims to The cobra is available with Ponsse’s C5 sliding boom of improve work, particularly C44+ parallel crane for vari- in conditions where load hanous working conditions, as dling takes up much of the well as an extensive selection time. of harvester heads.

Tough assignments The strong MercedesBenz/MTU engine and pow“It facilitates handling big erful single-circuit hydraulic trees and working on slopes, system are designed to ensure where the force requirement the Cobra’s performance and for the loader is especially reliability on any site. high,� he said.

Amongst the new products Ponsse is also putting on Ponsse is bringing on to the the market a new technique

that combines the digital revolution and GPS technology.

The OptiMap2 application enables the harvester operator to know where the trees to be logged are located and which trees are to be harvestHG 7KH WUHHV DUH LGHQWLÂż HG E\ GLŕľľ HUHQW FRORXUV ,WÂśV DOO about optimising driving and saving time and fuel.

When the harvester’s outSXW ¿ OHV DUH WUDQVIHUUHG WR WKH forwarder’s OPtiMap2 application, the forwarder driver receives the information, ZLWK WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ À RZLQJ VPRRWKO\ EHWZHHQ GL྾ HUHQW shifts.

OPtiMap2 shows the forwarder driver the harvester’s cutting trails as well as the timber assortments, amounts DQG SLOH ORFDWLRQ RQ VSHFL¿ F trails or in a limited area.

This way, the driver can plan the driving and optimise transferring the timber to the roadside.

OptiMap2 is part of the Ponsse Opti4G information and control system. The harvester has to have GPS machines and the ability to save FRRUGLQDWHV LQ 35, Âż OHV Data transfer between machines can be carried out using normal e-mail or a mem-

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

ory stick, if working in areas not covered by data communications networks.

3RQVVH Rŕľľ HUV WKH DSSOLFD tion as a free trial version for 30 days.

Few things are more important to a forest machine driver than a comfortable seat. It’s also important for productivity.

From the very outset, Ponsse has designed a seat speFL¿ FDOO\ IRU IRUHVW PDFKLQHV The company maintains that the Ponsse Seat’s adjustability and extra-strong base structure give the driver the best possible work comfort.

The new seat dampens swinging motions and vibraWLRQV PRUH Hŕľś FLHQWO\ WKDQ previous models.

The company has the seat manufacturer’s exclusive rights to the new seat model, Ponsse Seat. ** ** The author was a guest of Ponsse at the world premiere and factory opening in Vieremä, Finland, to see the prelaunch of the new PONSSE models, participate in the factory opening and get an introduction to the production of PONSSE forest machines. More will be featured in the next edition.

31

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FOR SALE BY EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Southern Tasmania

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FIREWOOD MILLS

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140 Hectares of native forest regrowth with some minor species to be selectively logged.

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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

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For more comprehensive information please contact: Torrick Ouaida Ph: 0434 350 170 Email: torrick@y7mail.com

32

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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

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Milling & Processing Machinery Dimpter 204 Optimising line

complete with infeed and out IHHG PXOWLSOH NLFN Rႇ VWDWLRQV FDQ EH VHHQ RSHUDWLQJ $38,000+GST

Tilt Hoist pack destripper

FOR SALE Komatsu 450XT Tracked Harvester 2014 model 7750hrs Levelling Harvester Rebuilt Waratah 622B Head Iqan Controller

$340,000+gst Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd

james@hcma.com.au +61 407 930 237

Make: Volvo Model: EC210CL Serial Number: 111284 Hours: 10,336 Description: Forestry Cab Guard, Full Forestry Guarding, Satco Boom & Arm, Hydraulic Cooler, Waratah HTH622B Harvester, Good Condition.

Price: $148,400 + GST Contact Komatsu Tasmania 0419 132 024 tfreestone@komatsu.com.au

ZLWK PXOWL %XQGOH LQIHHG DQG VWULS FRQYH\RU YHU\ JRRG XQLW $32,000+GST

Rex Planer

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MK Impianti 5) FRQWLQXRXV ODPLQDWHG WLPEHU SUHVV OLQH FDPH RXW RI 'RRU FRPSRQHQW IDFWRU\ JRRG VRXQG FRQGLWLRQ

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Weineg Redline Hydromat moulder

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Austral Timber Group Contact: Ken Baker RU NHQ EDNHU#G\QDJURXS FRP DX

FOR SALE

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PRICED TO SELL

PRICE HAS BEEN REDUCED MUST GO SUIT NEW BUYER MAKE AN OFFER!!

Ponsse Elephant King.

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Still under new warranty. $520,000 plus GST (Was $540,000) Contact: Nathan 0447 602434 Located Hamilton Vic. www.timberbiz.com.au

Make: Komatsu Model: PC220LC-7 Serial Number: DBJ0415 Hours: 11,670 Description: Forestry Cab Guard, Side Angles, Hydraulic Cooler, Waratah HTH622B Harvester, Reasonable Condition.

Price: $114,000 + GST Contact Komatsu Tasmania 0419 132 024 tfreestone@komatsu.com.au

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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 – (No rims) to suit 860 Valmet Forwarder P.O.A. Please email: Kevin Muskett musketts@bigpond.com

33

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

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2000 model Western Star 4900 FX prime mover with Kennedy folding quad dog. Cummins engine, full air binders, 37 tonne payload. $90,000 + GST

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File Photo

Tigercat L822C

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John Deere 648G log skidder. With winch & dual arch grapple, excellent condition. $75,000 + GST.

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Caterpillar D4E dozer. 27X series, angle tilt blade, free spool winch, open ROPS with sweeps, and direct drive. $42,000 + GST

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FOR SALE 2012 Valmet Forwarder 890.3.

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2014 Tigercat ST5702 High Speed Disc Saw Approx 14,000 hours. 2 new top clamps. New Tigercat disc with new teeth.

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All Prices include GST

34

Australian Forests & Timber News November 2018

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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 ÀRRU 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 ÀRRU 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

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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

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