High-severity wildfire threat to global timber production
Severe wildfires are putting global timber production at risk, new research from The Australian National University, the University of Sheffield and the University of Cambridge shows.
The research team analysed data from 2001 to 2021 and found 18.5 to 24.7 million hectares of timberproducing forest, an area equivalent to the size of Great Britain, has been lost to wildfires across the globe in the last two decades.
The researchers warn wildfires caused a loss of approximately 393 to 667 million cubic metres of industrial timber worth $45 to 77 billion based on 2021 global export prices.
According to lead author Dr Chris Bousfield from the University of Sheffield, the regions most severely impacted include Australia, the western United States of America and Canada, Siberian Russia and Brazil.
“Countries such as Australia, who have already lost a large proportion of their total timber-producing forests this century, are now likely to see significant shortfalls in their domestic timber supply,” Dr Bousfiled said. “This begs the question of where the additional timber needed to meet demand will be sourced from, and
at what cost to the environment.”
Co-author Professor David Lindenmayer from ANU and the Biodiversity Council said: “What’s particularly concerning is the discernible and relentless upward trajectory in annual burned areas - a clear sign of the growing wildfire-induced losses anticipated due to severe climate change.
“As we strive to meet the ever-increasing demand for timber, it is clear that timber producers must urgently adapt by adopting innovative management strategies and new technology to counter the escalating threat posed by wildfires.”
The researchers argue governments and industry must do four things to secure future timber production:
• First, expand timber production through fast-growing plantations of lessflammable tree species.
• Second, establish plantations in regions that are less likely to burn.
• Third, better design plantations to reduce fire spread across landscapes and damage and risk to human communities.
• Fourth, embrace emerging technologies such as infrared-sensing drones and autonomous firefight-
ing systems to enhance wildfire detection and suppression.
“Failure to implement these approaches could lead to significant future timber losses, potentially resulting in higher timber prices,” senior author Professor
David Edwards from Cambridge University said.
“This, in turn, may increase the economic attractiveness of intensive logging in some tropical forests, posing a threat to conservation efforts in biodiversity hotspots.”
NO ONE KNOWS air fl LIKE SMITHCO W
We’ve been a leading force in air flow design for almost 3 decades, with 4-, 6-, 8-, and 12-bladed propellers, designed and manufactured exclusively for the lumber industry. Now, they are even more capable with higher- temperature capacity for certain applications. We combine this technology with unsurpassed customer service, design consultation and technical expertise, so whatever your air flow need, you can trust SmithCo to deliver.
● Australia has already lost a large proportion of its total timber-producing forests this century.
The study has been published in Nature Geosciences magazine.
PAGE 17: Research confirms it – leaving forests unburned is dangerous Managing natural disasters and forestry
DECEMBER 2023
AFCA to expand its membership base
AFCA The Australian Forest Contractors Association is introducing a new membership category called ‘Supporter’ to build on this year’s growth in membership.
AFCA general manager Tim Lester the AFCA was proud of its remarkable growth over the past 12 months with membership up 60 per cent.
“Looking ahead, we anticipate even greater growth in the upcoming 2023/24 financial year,” he said in his annual report presented at the AFCA AGM and Conference in Albury in November attended by around 50 people.
“To accommodate the diverse needs of our industry, we are introducing a new membership category called ‘Supporter’,” he said.
“This inclusive category
will encompass a wide range of professionals, including growers, managers, mills, and processors.
“By expanding our membership offerings, we aim to foster a stronger sense of community and collaboration within the forest contracting industry,” Mr Lester said.
The function saw Michelle Corby from Mangan Logging retire from the board and Sunchip Group managing director Michael Blackberry appointed.
Adan Taylor remains as chairman and Ricky Leeson deputy chairman.
Speaking after the conference Mr Lester said he wanted to see more contractors at the association’s annual AGM and conference, but he
Insult heaped upon injury for Vic forestry operators
In a tragic case of insult being heaped upon injury, it has now been revealed that the Government of Victoria is offering just 30 cents in the dollar to harvest and haulage contractors who face unemployment at the end of the year.
These are people who 12 months ago were being told by the same State Government that they had another seven years to prepare for the termination of the native timber industry in Victoria.
That deal was of course thrown out the window in May this year and the shutdown brought to December 30 this year.
The initial package being offered to contractors contains only three options;
• Enter into a contract to work with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action,
• Surrender the contract and receive compensation,
tion of machinery compensation.
Gippsland East Nationals
But contractors who agree to terminate their contracts before 30 June, will receive just 30% of their contracted rate as a payout.
Let’s see what that actually means.
A timber business with a contract to deliver 30,000 cubic metres to VicForests for $35/m3, could have earned $1.05 million. But if they agree to terminate their 2023-24 contract six months early, on December 31, they will receive 30 cents in the dollar of their full contracted volume or $10.50/m3, but only paid out on a pro-rated basis on the remainder of the year –equal to $183,645. It doesn’t take a genius to work out how that doesn’t make any sense at all.
Then we have the situa-
• Continue on standdown payments until 30 June 2024.
MP Tim Bull says that at one point of the document the Government says it will pay the difference between the 2020 market value of a piece of plant and current value, which on face value is fair due to the depressed market for timber harvesting machinery.
But the deal at this stage doesn’t apply to machinery that is more than 10 years old, despite it still being valuable.
And then the Department reserves the right to pay less than the full difference to meet the available budget for the package.
“What the Labor Government has in effect done, is created a glorified grant stream where harvest and haulage contractors are competing against each other in a capped pool for the limited funds available,” he said.
● The AFCA’s Terese Minall, Michelle Pellas, deputy chairman Ricky Leeson, Dionne Olsen from ForestFit, AFCA general manager Tim Lester, AFCA board member Ian Reid and AFCA chairman Adan Taylor at the association’s annual AGM and conference in Albury.
● AFCA chairman Adan Taylor with former AFCA general manager Carlie Porteous at the association conference.
Green Triangle honours leading forestry researcher
The Green Triangle Timber Industry has honoured Dr Jim O’Hehir with its Timber Legend Award.
Five hundred people packed The Barn outside Mount Gambier for the fourth awards night, this year hosted by TV and radio’s Dave Thornton.
The presentation was made to Dr O’Hehir by South Australian Primary Industry Minister Clare Scriven and Premier Peter Malinauskas.
Ten awards were presented on the night.
Dr O’Hehir took up the position of General Manager, Forest Research, at Forest Research Mount Gambier in April 2018. Previously he was General Manager, Planning and Development, for ForestrySA.
Dr O’Hehir was recognised for his wealth of experience in forestry, wood production and environmental management.
With more than 30 years’ experience in the South Australian plantation forest industry, Dr O’Hehir has significant insight into the contemporary issues and solutions needed by the Australian forest industry.
His special interest area is in plantation growth and yield management, including long term sustainability, growth, yield, modelling and plantation water use.
He has facilitated a number of national research projects and worked on the development of various modelling projects for predicting pine thinning and fertiliser growth and yield responses.
Dr O’Hehir has also published papers, chaired seminars and workshops and presented at conferences both internationally and locally and has qualifications in forest science, including a Bachelor of Science (Forestry) from ANU and a Master of Forest Science and PhD from the University of Melbourne.
“The GTTIA ceremony shines a light on the importance of the region’s forest and timber industries and celebrates the achievements and innovation of the multiple businesses and individuals who contribute to the sustainability of forestry in the Green Triangle,” Mr Nathan Paine, Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Forest Products Association said.
“In South Australia, we
are incredibly proud and fortunate to have an industry that supports and elevates one another through sustainable and innovative practices whilst improving the sovereign capability of the sector. The Awards not only acknowledges those working and excelling within the industry by their peers but offers a platform to promote the forestry and encourage stakeholders and skilled employees to the region”, he said.
South Australia is proudly the birthplace of Australia’s plantation forestry industry, with Mount Gambier known as the hub of the
industry, and the Green Triangle, more importantly, labelled as Australia’s premier plantation forestry and wood products region.
“Forestry and timber products are a critical sector to the economic and environmental wellbeing of Australia, and it is important to shine a light on those individuals and businesses who continue to dedicate their careers and time to the advancement and empowerment of forestry,” said Mr Paine.
“And, to have Mr Malinauskas and Ms Scriven to attend the Awards Dinner illustrates just how important the forest and timber industries are to the State Government and to the social and economic fabric of our regional communities.
“Congratulations to the Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards Committee for their dedication and commitment to the industry, and for continuing to showcase the excellence and inno-
vation within the timber industry”, concluded Mr Paine. Victorian Forest Products Association Deb Kerr congratulated the winners and said she was honoured to be part of this year’s judging panel.
“While it made my job on the panel harder, we are very fortunate to have such a strong number of nominees in the region. I congratulate the very deserving winners and those highly who received highly commended awards,” Ms Kerr said.
“I also want to thank and acknowledge the efforts of the GTTIA Committee, notably chair Adrian Flowers and event manager Gaylene Newton, along with my fellow judges Nathan Paine, and Phil Howe, and the Panel’s supporting expert Paul Hartong.”
Winners List & Photos on Page 8
Dr. O'Hehir's
ForestWorks has been honoured to be part of the 2023 Green Triangle Timber Awards as a proud sponsor of this prestigious event. Witnessing the recognition of the most accomplished professionals in the Green Triangle industry was genuinely inspiring.
ForestWorks team commend all winners and finalists for their considerable investment in skills and ongoing commitment to excellence in the timber industry.
ForestWorks is passionately dedicated to nurturing a workforce that is skilled, forward-thinking, and robust, capable of uplifting our vital industries into the future.
Scriven, Green Triangle Timber Industry Awards Timber
Dr Jim O’Hehir, Judy O’Hehir and SA Premier Peter Malinauskas.
● 1 – Operations Award: Harvesting & InField Chipping Excellence
Winner: Jaimie Marlow from Merrett Logging with award sponsor Tammy Auld from Timberlands Pacific.
● 2 – Operations Award: Silviculture & Timber Support Services
Winner: Jason Whyte from Berry & Whyte Surveyors and Josh Praolini from Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub (Highly Commended) with award sponsor Belinda Lengenberg from Timberlink.
● 3 – Logistics Excellence Award: Port Operations, Marshalling & Timber Haulage
Winner: Adam Merrett – Merrett Logging with award sponsor David Matthews from Matthews Petroleum.
● 4 – Sawmilling & Processing Excellence Award
Winner: Andrew Burston from OneFortyOne with award sponsor Travis Lawson from ForestWorks and the State Minister for Forestry Clare Scriven on behalf of Qube Forestry.
● 5 – Safety Excellence Award – Individual Achievement
Winners: Ryan Cassar from Tabeel Trading Nominees and Deb Khul from Timberlink Australia & New Zealand with award sponsor Jason Blagrove from Telematics Solutions.
● 6 – Trainee / Apprentice of the Year Award
Winner: Grace Tse from Timberlands Pacific and Amelia Harris of Van Schaik’s BioGro (Highly Commended) with award sponsors Phillip Dohnt of Function Chains and Greg Kenny on behalf of Crossmuller & Australian Panels
● 7 – Environment & Sustainability Award
Winner: Wendy Fennell from Fennell Forestry with Levi Bateman (Highly Commended) represented at the event by Marcel Griffiths, HVP Plantations with award sponsor Andy Newell, HVP Plantations.
● 8 – Safety Excellence Award – Company with less than 30 Staff Winner: Glenara Transport represented by Tammy Whitehead with award sponsor Wendy Norris from OneFortyOne.
● 9 – Safety Excellence Award – Company with More than 30 Staff Winner: Merrett Logging represented by Kev Gritton and John Merrett of Merrett Logging with award sponsor Daniel Rosenthal for South West Fibre.
Nokian Tyres Logger King LS-2 is a skidder tire made for the hardest conditions and the biggest machinery It has the some clever features to speed up your daily work.
Forestry a significant regional contributor but challenges ahead
Asocio-economic report completed by the University of Canberra clearly demonstrates the significant economic and employment contribution of the forestry and wood processing industry to the Murray Region, but the industry is not out of the woods yet with a looming resource constraint ahead, according to Softwoods Working Group chair Peter Crowe.
“The industry continues to be a valuable contributor to the region, directly and indirectly employing more than 11,000 locals in the financial year 2021. That’s income straight into the household of the Murray Region community,” he said.
SWG executive officer Carlie Porteous, commended
Key Points
● The report indicates that the industry is a strong socio-economic performer in the MRFH with key contributions such as employment (11,429 directly and indirectly) and Gross value of output ($3.823billion).
● The report paints a challenging future resource scenario as a result of the 2019/2020 fires, as well as previous fires within the region impacting the plantation estate.
● The report demonstrates that the industry is a strong regional employer.
the Murray Region Forestry Hub, its committee, and the University of Canberra for their thorough study.
“The study is a world first. The industry has not previously examined the socio-economic impacts of a successful post-bushfire recovery process,” she said.
“The industry should be truly congratulated for its
MechLog’s safety culture awarded
The 2023 WorkSafe Tasmania Awards have recognised organisations that excel in creating a culture where safety is paramount, and one standout winner has emerged: Mechanised Logging Pty Ltd. The Tasmanian-based national forest industries company has been providing specialised timber harvesting services to the plantation timber industry in Australia since 1994. Winning the Excellence in Work Health and Safety Culture Award acknowledges MechLog’s unwavering commitment to safety, sustainability, and employee well-being.
MechLog is not just a forestry company; it’s a model for a positive work health and safety culture. The organisation has dedicated almost three decades to transforming the perception of the forestry indus-
try from one associated with destruction and unsafe practices to a modern, sustainable sector where productivity and safety are top priorities.
MechLog’s Managing Director, Anthony Brown, emphasised the significance of building a workplace culture where safety governs every task.
“MechLog’s work health and safety culture is deeply rooted in its ethos, where every member of the team matters, and a ‘safety-first’ approach governs every task. This culture has been cultivated through systematic safety management, education, training, and peer support since we started MechLog in 1994,” Mr Brown said.
efforts to salvage more than 98 per cent of recoverable aged timber during such a difficult time.
“The report unequivocally demonstrates the positive impacts of the collaboration of the industry and its community during this salvage period. It was so successful that wood fibre was being recovered up to
two years after the devastating 2019/2020 bushfires.”
The report calls out the significant contribution of the NSW, Victorian and Federal governments for their quick response to the needs of the industry, through a number of grants that enabled better wood storage outcomes and further processing efficiencies to deal with the challenges ahead.
“The industry could not have achieved what it did and continues to do so, without the significant contribution of the NSW, Victorian and Federal governments,” Ms Porteous said.
But Ms Porteous cautioned becoming too blasé about the industry’s future, indicating the fires have had a significant impact on future resource availability,
and further support may be required.
Looking ahead, Ms Porteous emphasised the need for preventative measures, reforms, and deeper engagement with government entities to protect the remaining plantation estate. She warned of potential industry closures if these measures are not implemented, particularly considering the anticipated pressure on the industry and the region from the financial year 2025 through to the financial year 2033.
“A number of preventative measures and reforms are required to protect what is left of the estate and a deeper level of engagement with the Government will be necessary to avoid industry closures,” Ms Porteous said.
“MechLog’s comprehensive safety management system is integrated into the core of the business, reflecting the importance we place on safety. Safety is not an add-on; it’s an intrinsic part of our operations, managed and updated regularly by a dedicated Safety Manager. Safety is a standing agenda item in management meetings, ensuring it receives the atten-
tion it deserves.
MechLog doesn’t stop at safety; it also actively promotes education and discussions around critical topics such as mental health, wellbeing, fitness, nutrition, diversity, inclusion, and
TAFE Tumut recruits two new saw doctors
TAFE NSW Tumut’s commitment to forestry training has been further strengthened by the recruitment of two new saw doctoring specialist teachers.
Josh Molkentin and Fred Dean, both who work as saw doctors in the local timber industry, have recently commenced as saw technology teachers at TAFE NSW Tumut.
Tumut and Tumbarumba are home to a global forestry industry, with nearly 18 per cent of the region’s workforce employed in the industry.
Mr Molkentin, 48, is a born-and-bred local who will straddle his role as head
saw doctor at Hyne Timber Tumbarumba Mill with his new teaching duties.
“It’s all about career progression for me and sharing my expertise with the next generation of saw doctors,”
Mr Molkentin said.
“What I love about TAFE NSW is that the course is practical and gives students a chance to just get in and do it.”
Fred Dean is a saw doctor at AKD in Tumut and will also share his time between the workshop and the classroom.
Both new teachers were recruited under the innovative Paid to Learn program, which aims to fast-track and support industry profes-
sionals as they transition into teaching at TAFE NSW, paying them a wage while they complete their training.
TAFE NSW Tumut’s Forestry Training Centre is one of only two training organisations nationally to offer forestry, drawing students from across Australia.
Saw doctors are an irreplaceable part of the timber industry, repairing, setting and sharpening saw blades for timber production. The local timber industry is still recovering from the disastrous 2019-2020 bushfires, which devastated more than a third of the region’s commercial forestry plantation area.
Forest Industry Council executive officer Dallas Goldspink welcomed the new TAFE NSW forestry teachers and said they would play a critical role in providing a skilled workforce to local mills.
“Forestry is so diverse and there are so many different pathways for young people to build a career,” Mr Goldspink said.
“We really need that pipeline of new workers coming through and TAFE NSW Tumut is the ideal training facility to provide that.” Both teachers are currently teaching under supervision and will commence full teaching duties in February 2024.
reconciliation. Anthony highlighted the company’s innovative programme, Skills Enhancement and Employee Development (SEED), which is designed to build a well-rounded employee and team.
Page 21: Top award for NSW Saw doctor
● New TAFE NSW Tumut saw technology teachers Fred Dean and Josh Molkinton will help train the next generation of saw doctors from across Australia.
● MechLog’s Work Health & Safety Manager Duncan Norton, Regional Manager Northwest Tasmania Dave Rowbottom and Managing Director Anthony Brown.
BRIEFS
Forestry Centre
The SA State Government has appointed a Transitional Board for the Forestry Centre of Excellence at Mount Gambier, with Professor Rob Lewis named as the independent chair.
Currently Director of Science Without Bounds, Professor Lewis has already been contracted by the State Government to facilitate engagement between industry, government and other stakeholders, along with providing strategic advice and leadership in establishing the Forestry Centre of Excellence.
HVP changes
Hancock Victoria Plantations CEO Stephen Ryan has resigned after 17 years in the timber business. Mr Ryan served as HVP Plantations CEO since 2017, before which he served as CFO.
Josie Pane will become acting CEO of HVP Plantations before Mr Ryan retires in December.
A process will commence to appoint a new and permanent CEO.
Asset sale
New Forests is selling four of its New Zealand forestry assets as it approaches the completion of the term for its second round Australia and New Zealand Forestry Fund (ANZFF2). The four estates are located across New Zealand’s North and South Islands in established forestry regions of Blenheim, Southland, Taupo and Wairarapa.
Brolly appointed
Joseph Brolly has been appointed as the Forest Owners Association’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO), commencing 6 November 2023. Originally from a farming and forestry family, Joseph has plenty of experience with the challenges of forest harvesting and woodlot logging. While studying, he worked in cable logging and with ground-based crews around the central North Island.
Lessons to be learned from the Tassie approach
PHILIP HOPKINS
The ‘precautionary principle’ is not included in the Tasmanian Forest Practices Code, where a more pragmatic approach manages any threatened species, according to a senior Tasmanian forestry expert.
Dr Peter Volker, the retired Chief Forest Practices Officer for Tasmania’s Forest Practices Authority, said the ‘precautionary principle’ clause was not included in Tasmania because it is a very ambiguously defined concept. “At the extreme, the precautionary principle means if you don’t know anything, you don’t do anything,” he said.
The FPA, established in 1985, manages the Tasmanian forest practices system on both public and private land, based on the Forest Practices Act 1985. It operates independently, alongside government and private businesses, to regulate all the activities that are defined as ‘forest practices’. These include establishing forests, growing and harvesting timber, and working within forest areas.
“Our system is tenure blind – whether national parks, private or state forest – the same rules apply to everybody. The 1985 Forest Practice Act was ahead of the game,” said Dr Volker, who has decades of forestry experience.
With no precautionary principle, Dr Volker said the approach in Tasmania was more pragmatic.
“Threatened fauna in Tasmania are ‘managed
through’ a threatened species adviser tool; we have developed prescriptions for most threatened fauna species,” he said.
The threatened species adviser is a decision-making tool for both plants and animals.
“We plug in the characteristics of the forest and the type of forestry operation, and the tool provides a standardised prescription on how to manage each species that is present on the site,” he said.
“In cases where something is unusual, where circumstances don’t fit standard cases, then we refer the circumstances to the threatened species section of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE Tasmania). They look at the circumstances and provide a recommendation, which is signed off by the Department Secretary; that is then put in the forest practices plan to manage the threatened species in that coupe or forest.”
Dr Volker said the Tasmanian threatened species adviser is based on research, and new prescriptions are
endorsed by an independent threatened species advisory committee convened by NRE Tas. The threatened species adviser prescriptions “probably applies in 95 per cent of circumstances”.
“It can cover what’s required,” he said.
Dr Volker said Tasmania’s Forest Practice Act talks of ‘reasonable’ protection for the environment.
“You can’t cut trees without having some environmental impact, but what is ‘reasonable’ is the attitude we have taken here.”
Dr Volker said the FTA’s forest practice planning was done on a ‘coupe by coupe’ basis, but the landscape context was taken into account as part of that planning process.
“In Tasmania, we have pretty much bipartisan support for the forest industry and forest practice system through Labor and the Liberals. A Greens politician in Parliament said, ‘The FP Authority is the shining light of forestry in Tasmania’,” he said. “It is recognised that our rules are robust and apply the best and latest available knowledge.”
Dr Volker said the FPA was more like the Conservation Regulator in Victoria, whereas Sustainable Timber Tasmania (STT) resembled VicForests.
“The difference is here, STT manages all ‘state forest’ at all times, whereas in Victoria it is DEECA that looks after those areas once forest operations are completed, not VicForests,” he said.
Regarding criticism in Victoria about failed regeneration coupes, “they are prob-
ably adequately regenerated when VicForests hands the coupe back (after five years), but something happens in the meantime”. (VicForests regularly has about 95 per cent compliance in official forest audits).
Perhaps problems in coupes became apparent 10 years later, but VicForests was blamed for the failure.
“In Tasmania, STT would be in position to do something about it as they still manage those areas.”
Dr Volker said the FPA was a dedicated forestry environment regulator in Tasmania. “The Victorian Office of the Conservation Regulator, like the EPA in New South Wales, has other responsibilities, and so they may not have that focus on forestry,” he said.
Dr Volker said the forest practices system operates under a co-regulatory model.
“The FPA has 20 staff, but 150 authorised forest practices officers whose job is to enforce the forest practices code on a day-to-day basis. They are in the coupes every day, supervising operations, because they know the code backwards and have legal authority.
“They have the power to enforce compliance at this time,” he said. “In any coupe in Tasmantice plans have prescriptions for threatened species, and as in Victoria, they also take a huge amount of care. Contractor staff are also formally trained and accredited in environmental care and workplace safety.” he said.
- LaTrobe Valley Express
OUTRUN™ GUESSWORK
LOG IN, LOGS OUT.
The forestry industry is an increasingly intricate business that requires seamless coordination of your team’s performance in the forest and the back office to achieve success.
To help take the guesswork out of effective decision making, TimberMatic Maps™ and TimberManager™ are our map-based planning and tracking systems that allow your team to share real-time production and location information.
Then, leverage the suite of dealer and factory tools in John Deere Connected Support™ to help reduce, or even prevent, costly downtime.
Simplify your business operations by optimizing your team’s efforts, and in turn, your gains and OUTRUN™ GUESSWORK with John Deere Precision Forestry.
● Tasmania’s Forest Practice Act talks of ‘reasonable’ protection for the environment. Picture: Private Forests Tasmania
● Dr Peter Volker.
Total Harvesting take delivery of a new Komatsu Forest fleet
Total Harvesting Pty
Ltd has recently secured the renewal of its Forest Products Commission softwood logging and haulage contracts in the Bunbury region, Western Australia.
Traditionally, the company has preferred track harvesters for handling the tougher trees, but recognized that rubber-tyred harvesters would be more suitable for the upcoming smaller thinnings in the new contract.
The advances in Komatsu rubber-tyred harvester technology, particularly in terms of size and the ability to handle larger and rougher trees, coupled with improved head technology, made them an attractive choice.
These machines offer lower fuel consumption, increased productivity, especially in dealing with smaller timber, and provide safe, ergonomic workstations for operators.
tory of strong support and service.
Matt Leov, managing director of Total Harvesting, expressed his satisfaction with the enduring relationship with Komatsu Forest.
Komatsu Forest spare parts and support agent in Albany WA, provides an excellent collaboration between Al and Matt to ensure the level of support necessary for their remote regions.
Their journey began with a successful tender to Albany Plantation Export Company in 2004, securing a contract to harvest150,000 tonnes per annum of hardwood plantations.
“ It gives me great pleasure to deliver this new Komatsu fleet to Matt after so many years
Harvesting to diversify into pine plantations, alongside its hardwood operations in the Southwest corner of Western Australia.
ditionally, there was a significant fleet of Timbco track harvesters and Timberpro tree length forwarders provided to Timbercorp before the hardwood chipping export industry faced challenges due to the Global Financial Crisis.
• Two Komatsu 931/C144 Harvesters delivered to the Bunbury region area during June/July,
• One Komatsu 951/S172 Harvester and one Komatsu 895.2S delivered to the Bunbury region during August/September,
• Three Komatsu 895.2S Forwarder delivered to Albany/Bunbury regions during September/October.
With these additions, Total Harvesting has now acquired 20 machines from Komatsu Forest, and the majority are actively contributing to its current and new contracts. The choice of Komatsu Forest machines is based on a twenty-year his-
For their new contract, Komatsu Forest delivered a fleet of equipment, including:
“We’re still dealing with the same people as when we first came to WA,” he said. And he really appreciated Komatsu Forest’s approach of getting the machines operational first and then addressing any issues.
“Even get a little outside warranty issues covered,” he said.
To ensure top-notch support for these six new machines, Komatsu Forest appointed Pratico Mechanical Services in Collie as their service agent for the Bunbury region.
Matt Pratico, the owner of Pratico Mechanical Services has employed two additional mechanics and is delivering excellent support.
Meanwhile Al Curnow Hydraulics, with more than a decade of experience as
With the new contract in place, Total Harvesting decided to establish a local branch/depot in Bunbury with a workshop and an accompanying support network to better serve their operations in the local area.
Total Harvesting was founded by Matt and Sarah Leov, along with Sarah’s father, Chris Jensen.
They began operations in Albany, Western Australia, in October 2004 after moving from New Zealand where they worked as loggers in the Central North Island.
The allure of Australian contracts promised longer security of tenure, making the move worthwhile, despite moving to another country and being far from their families.
This marked the inception of their partnership with Komatsu Forest when they purchased their first two Komatsu 890.2/8 Forwarders.
Over time, this relationship evolved into a substantial fleet of forwarders and track harvesters and now expanding to wheel harvesters with the new FPC contract.
In 2011, they decided to diversify in another state with Forest Commission NSW in Tumut, securing a clear fall contract for harvesting 120,000 tonnes per annum of pine.
However, the geographical distance between their contracts posed challenges, leading them to focus on their home state.
This shift prompted Total
The company initially started with the Forest Products Commission in a pine plantation near Bunbury, which eventually led to a full-term contract.
The commitment to innovation and creative problem-solving has driven the company’s remarkable growth, making it a successful and forward-thinking business today.
Total Harvesting is currently responsible for harvesting and hauling substantial volumes of timber, including 220,000 tonnes per annum of softwood plantations, along with haulage for FPC and 100,000 tonnes per annum of hardwood plantations, including haulage for APEC. Its operations now employ more than 50 people across two main operations.
Komatsu Forest has a well-established history in Western Australia, dating back to the late nineties. It has delivered a range of forwarders and various harvesting equipment to customers such as Pine Hauliers, Softwood Logging, Plantation Logging and Total Harvesting. Ad-
In 2012, Komatsu Forest’s presence expanded further with the takeover of the Peterson Dealership, coinciding with a resurgence in the export chip market.
This led to strong sales of Peterson flail and chipper combinations, both in single and twin machine configurations in the Bunbury/Albany region.
Komatsu Forest strive to deliver a high level of support to its customers throughout Australia with the aim to build strong working relationships.
“I have known Matt for over 20 years”, said Brett Jones, KF Managing Director.
“We believe customers like Matt greatly appreciate our level of support, especially when some issues require a certain amount of goodwill support,” he said.
“It gives us great pleasure to deliver this new Komatsu fleet to Matt after so many years” he said.
● Total Harvesting’s new Komatsu 951 at work near Bunbury.
● Total Harvesting’s new Komatsu 931 in a pine plantation near Bunbury.
New recruit at front line defence
Scanning the bush from a fire tower
45-metres above the ground, Sally Knox is the first line of defence for the Central West when it comes to bushfire.
One of Forestry Corporation’s newest recruits, Sally has recently started as a fire tower operator based in Bathurst.
The fire tower team will be watching over the forest estate this summer alerting ground crews to rising smoke.
It is an important career calling given that most of the bushfires contained in the state forests of the Central West are initially spotted from the towers.
“I have spent a few shifts in the Sunny Corner tower and watched a couple of fires,” Sally said.
“I have to say there’s a level of pressure with the job. I feel the weight of responsibility, but it’s also satisfying work knowing I could potentially save someone’s property or someone’s life by spotting a fire before it takes off.
“When the winds pick up you certainly feel that responsibility.”
Taking in 360-degree views of the forest canopy,
fire tower operators also relay important weather updates to the Fire Duty Officer.
“We do weather observations every hour and report those across radio,” Sally said.
“I like to do them half an hour beforehand so I can see the consistency in the
average daytime temperature, wind speed, wind direction and the relative humidity.
“We use all this information to calculate the Fire Behaviour Index, which is a measure that has been in place in NSW since the 2019-2020 bushfires. We put together all this important
information to get an accurate reading on the bushfire risk.
Three days into the job and Sally faced her first big test in the towers.
“Climbing up the Shooters Hill tower in strong winds was extreme. It was 60 to 65km/h wind gusts. It took a lot longer than normal due to the winds, but it was also the first time I have had to harness on since I completed my working at heights course,” Sally said.
“There are many great things about this job. The landscapes are beautiful, it’s a workplace with a great view. Before I found the position, I told myself the next job I am going to get would be one where I can enjoy the outdoors as I came from a desk job. So yes, this has been a stark contrast. It’s unlike any other job I have ever worked,” she said.
Dave Anderson, Stewardship and Fire Supervisor for the Bathurst Management Area, said Forestry Corporation will rely on 18 seasonal and contracted staff in the Central West this bushfire season to complement Forestry’s staff firefighting ranks.
“It is very important to have seasonal firefighters
and fire tower operators assisting Forestry Corporation during the fire season. While all Forestry Corporation staff members serve in firefighting and fire support capacities the intake of seasonal firefighters allows us to fill our firefighting standby rosters to make sure we have firefighters ready to respond at any point,” Dave said.
“In the Bathurst area, just about every fire in the forest is spotted from the fire towers. The towers are invaluable assets for the Central West.
“The fire towers are important in the landscapewhen we notice smoke, we can figure out where the fire is and alert our other firefighting agencies such as the Rural Fire Service and National Parks and Wildlife.
“Early warning on bushfires is vital and early suppression is often so important allowing us to act quick and stop small fires spreading into large uncontrolled bushfires,” he said.
To find out more about seasonal firefighting positions or for more information about Forestry Corporation of NSW, visit forestrycorporation.com.au
Major boost for SA bushfire protection
As South Australia enters a more challenging fire season, South Australia’s forest industries have hailed the bolstered landscape bushfire protection measures that when joined up will provide better protection for our regional communities and industries than ever before.
“This season in the South East will see the rollout of the new $2.3 million fire camera network, the continued use of our fire towers, the two new aerial observation helicopters in addition to the four governmentfunded aerial firefighting appliances including three SEATs and one Blackhawk, our industry-funded aerial firefighting appliance, a new source of water to fight fires at Callendale along with bolstered Forest Indus-
try Brigades working with the CFS and its volunteers,”
Nathan Paine, Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Forest Products Association said.
“After enjoying several years of below average fire danger, this is our first year back with an El Nino weather pattern and we know that this year and the years to come will be more difficult than the past few seasons. Whilst bushfires are unpredictable we are better prepared than ever and our plan will be to detect fires early and hit them hard and fast to ensure we are protecting life, property and the regional economy,” he said.
“We only have to look at the devastation wrought by bushfires on Kangaroo Island and of course the
Black Saturday fires on the east coast to know how important it is that we are prepared and we congratulate the Government for continuing to invest in protecting our community and our industries from bushfires.
“Our bushfire history illustrates the importance of being armored and edu-
Research confirms it – leaving forests unburned is dangerous
Peer-reviewed research published in the Australian Forestry journal has confirmed something that forest firefighters have long known: if forests are left unburned for many years, they still carry heavy bushfire fuels, making firefighting difficult and dangerous.
The new research demolishes the theory that if forests are left unburnt, they become non-flammable.
cated to the best of our ability to protect our plantation estates, as fires are unpredictable and will always be a part of our landscape.”
Mr Paine said that forest industries directly invested well over $5 million each and every year into fire prevention, detection and firefighting which included
more than 300 firefighters, a firefighting helicopter, along with our specialist firefighting tankers and associated equipment.
He said that importantly, this year’s efforts would be supported by a new large capacity Fire Dam at Callendale that was constructed immediately adjacent to a major drain allowing water to be fed into the dam. Its construction will support the industry funded helicopter and other fire suppression units. This Fire Dam was achieved through industry collaborating with the South East Drainage Board and the local CFS. This exciting proof of concept initiative is a forerunner to establishing more strategically placed, large capacity, fire water storage dams.
The study was conducted by internationally-recognised bushfire scientist Dr Neil Burrows supported by colleagues Alan Wills and Dr Val Densmore. Working in the field, rather than with computer models, the scientists measured and analysed fuels in karri forests that ranged from 1 to 92 years since last being burned. Their findings confirmed long-held field experience. After a fire, the karri forest begins almost immediately to start re-accumulating bushfire fuels. These comprise fallen leaves, bark and twigs, some heavier woody material and regrowth of understorey. For the first 30 years or so after the fire, the weight of flammable fuel continues to increase year by year, but then it begins to plateau, as the rate of new fuel accumulation approximates the rate of natural decomposition.
The critical finding is that
the maximum fuel weight at about fuel-age 30 is about 50 tonnes of fuel on every hectare of forest, and this declines only slightly over subsequent decades. This level of fuel generates highintensity bushfires which are difficult or impossible to control. The structure and composition of the shrub layer changes over time since fire, but even at its maximum height and density, contributes little fuel. The scientists examined and measured fuels at 72
sites across the karri forest region, including areas where karri grows in conjunction with tingle trees. They did not find a single example of bushfire fuels disappearing or becoming insignificant, even in areas left unburnt for almost a century.
The scientists concluded that periodic low-intensity prescribed burning of karri forests (at an interval of about eight years) will maintain bushfire fuels and understorey fire hazard at
levels that will reduce the rate of spread, fire intensity, flame dimensions and spotting potential of bushfires. This makes bushfires easier and safer to suppress, and less damaging.
A favourite line of those who oppose fuel-reduction prescribed burning is that the burning makes the forest more, not less flammable, and that consequently burning should cease. This theory is based on desk-top computer modelling, not on actual field studies. The new
research demonstrates that, for the karri forest at least, the computer modelling does not reflect the situation in the real world and provides no basis for constraining or ceasing fuel reduction burning.
The Bushfire Front is pleased that this research has been done and that the results so comprehensively support the WA government’s wise policy of periodically carrying out fuel reduction prescribed burning in our south-west forests.
● Forestry Corporation fire tower operator Sally Knox.
● This fire season in the South East will see the rollout of the new $2.3 million fire camera network.
● Dr Neil Burrows and colleague Dr Lachie McCaw measuring fuel loads in karri forest in the lower south-west of WA.
Bonville sawmill still keen on keeping it green
Since 1984 Adam’s Sawmill Pty Ltd at Bonville in New South Wales has been proudly owned and operated by the late Kerr Adam and his family. It has a strong reputation for supplying the highest quality hardwood at the most competitive prices.
Sadly, Kerr passed away two years ago. But his legacy lives on through the mill and his daughter Tania Adams-Agostinelli who has taken over its management.
Kerr began his sawmilling career by cutting sleepers for the Victorian railways in the late 1960s. By 1984 he had relocated to Coffs Harbour with the intention of taking early retirement.
However, when an existing sawmill came up for sale the opportunity to re-enter the timber industry was too exciting to turn down, and Adam’s Sawmill was born.
Almost four decades later, the company employs around 12 people and supports many associated businesses. Kerr knew everything there was to know about the timber species that passed through his family’s mill, as well as every intricacy of the operations and the hardwood elements it produces. This wealth of knowledge has been passed down to the next generation of the Adam family.
“We deal primarily with A.E. Gibson for equipment these days,” Tania said “A lot of the equipment’s old because the big mill is the original mill and probably 100 years old.”
Tania said the equipment didn’t really wear out, as long as it was maintained.
“If you look after it mill equipment can last many,
to keep the saws cool. And then there’s obviously sawdust.
“So water and sawdust certainly isn’t a good combination. If you let it build up wet sawdust sitting on steel for a long time obviously creates rust so we need to be on top of that keep the machines clean.
“Then you can get a really good life out of them.”
Blade sharpening is largely done in-house but some are sent out to be hammered and rolled.
“We run water on the saws
The hardwood timber supplied by Adam’s Sawmill is rough sawn and green. The mill does not kiln dry, dress or treat its wood. This means a less expensive and more environmentally friendly product, thanks to the minimal number of steps and zero fossil fuels required in the manufacturing process. It also has the advantage of offering natural and rusticlooking products.
Every part of every log that enters the mill is used; nothing goes to waste. That’s great news for keeping down costs and prices, and the mill’s environmental impact.
Adam’s Sawmill, an FWPA member, produces an extensive range of general timber construction elements, fencing timber and hardwood garden sleepers, as well as woodchip and mulch for the landscape industry, created using saw-
dust, offcuts and bark.
The team at Adam’s Sawmill takes pride in the quality of the timber it produces, the fast and reliable service offered, and the strength of the relationships it enjoys with suppliers and customers, old and new.
One past project the team is particularly proud of is its involvement in the $4 million expansion of Coffs Harbour Regional Airport in 1999. Adam’s Sawmill supplied the timber for the feature ceiling in the new terminal, often described as ‘the best airport on the east coast of Australia’ and an ‘absolutely beautiful airport’.
Adam’s Sawmill also supplied Indigenous hardwoods for the Urunga Boardwalk’s 400-metre extension in 2010. This initia-
tive was intended to provide locals and visitors with safe, practical and wheelchair access to the beach, while simultaneously protecting the adjacent sand dunes, fragile wetlands and endangered ecological systems from pedestrian traffic. The extension increased the total length to almost a kilometre, allowing locals and visitors to Urunga to comfortably walk to the mouth of the Bellinger River and view coastal salt marsh and communities along the way.
Adam’s Sawmill supplies various landscaping timbers, woodchip and eucalyptus mulch to the Coffs Harbour City Council and other local authorities for beautification projects that improve the aesthetic of the local area.
● Inside Adam’s Sawmill at Bonville in New South Wales.
● Mill founder the late Kerr Adam with his his daughter Tania Adams-Agostinelli who has taken over its management.
BRIEFS
Younger retires
After six years at the helm of New Zealand’s Forest Industry Contractors Association, CEO Prue Younger will retire from her role in March next year.
During her time as FICA’s CEO, Prue has led the organisation through both prosperous and challenging periods for forestry contractors, including the pandemic and significant log market downturns, as well as some highlights like the 2022 FICA Fast and Forward Forestry Expo bringing together various parts of the industry with forestry front and centre.
$5m funding
Forest & Wood Products Australia has welcomed the Australian Government’s recent announcement of $5M in funding for a new Australian Research Council (ARC) Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity.
The funding is part of $64M in funding being awarded to eight ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centres and five new ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs.
Plantation sale
Around 3000ha of forestry plantations in the Green Triangle have been put up for sale by a consortium of Western Australian investors.
The plantations, which stretch from Portland in Victoria to Naracoorte in South Australia, are primarily blue gum and pine plantations.
No price guide has been offered for the listing.
Position statement
Forestry Australia has released three new and highly topical Position Statements to share its evidence-based positions on important issues relating to the management of forests across Australia.
The Statements cover Conservation of Threatened Species, Forest Carbon Markets and Thinning of Native Forests and are designed to be accessible to all.
Forest Insights transform inventory management
Scion, in collaboration with Indufor Asia Pacific Ltd, has revealed a prototype for a new interactive tool providing the forestry industry with powerful inventory information to make management, harvesting and wood processing decisions easier.
Called ‘Forest Insights’, scientists from the Crown Research Institute outlined the tool’s capabilities and applications for the industry at ForestTECH 2023 in Rotorua, Australasia’s premier forestry technology event for forest managers, remote sensing specialists and tree crop managers.
In a world increasingly driven by data and technology, the interactive Forest Insights tool powered by machine learning and deep learning models provides forest owners, managers and wood processors with an overview of the changing availability and growth of planted radiata pine over time.
The prototype is currently focused on modelling of East Coast pine forests but Scion has plans to provide the same data and for a wider range of trees for other regions, with Bay of Plenty next cab off the rank.
Scion portfolio leader for New Value from Digital Forests and Wood Sector, Grant Evans, says the prototype will support forestry and wood processing companies to make more informed management decisions.
“Long term, it will help anyone with trees planted know their precise location and ultimately, what they can do with the trees in the future.”
Forest Insights is more than just a mapping tool; it’s set to become a window into the heart of commercial forests. It has been built using cutting-edge AI technologies as well as LiDAR, to detect and identify stands of trees to quantify their volume and maturity over time. It outlines the boundaries for each stand of trees and provides essential details, such as age class, area
in production, and the number of stems per hectare. Forest Insights also tracks the history of planting and harvesting, which provides valuable insights into changing inventory levels. This inventory data is more than statistics; it’s the key to unlocking investments and strategic decisions for stakeholders across the timber supply chain.
Automatically detecting commercial radiata pine forests using trained Deep Learning Convolutional Neural Networks by their boundaries is a game changer for forestry companies. What used to be a laborious task of drawing polygons is now replaced with the click of a button.
Additionally, Forest Insights levels the playing field for smaller forest owners, Evans says. “These individuals, who own smaller woodlots or stands, can use the tool to see where other small lots in their region are maturing at a similar time and potentially co-operate to negotiate better pricing from mills.” This democratisation of information ensures that the benefits of Forest Insights extend to all players in the industry.
As a prototype it offers a glimpse into the future, with researchers already planning features that will
Top award for NSW saw doctor
TAFE NSW has helped a Caboolture apprentice saw doctor with no previous connection to the timber industry claim a prestigious national award.
Daniel McNabb, 20, was this month honoured with the 2023 Camco Best Teamwork and Communication Award at the TAFE NSW Saw Technology Awards.
State High.
Captured by the precision and artistry of saw doctoring, Mr McNabb successfully applied for an apprenticeship with AKD after leaving school and enrolled in a Certificate III in Saw Technology at TAFE NSW Tumut.
industry, repairing, setting and sharpening saw blades for timber production.
provide additional value.
Scion is already working with the University of Canterbury to identify tree species beyond radiata pine, aligning with the Government’s goal of having 20% non-radiata pine forests by 2030. Currently, such measurements rely on people voluntarily reporting their data, making it difficult to track progress. Forest Insights intends to change that by using satellite imagery and LiDAR data from Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand to detect different tree species accurately and utilise Indufor’s dashboarding expertise.
Harvest tracking
Beyond tree species identification, the prototype goes a step further by automatically tracking forest activities. Collaborating with Indufor Asia Pacific Ltd who enhanced the detection training, each orange segment on the map represents an area where harvesting has occurred. This functionality not only helps in tracking inventory but it is hoped, with further training, it will provide a means to assess forest damage following natural disasters.
“For the East Coast, it could also be used as a tool to reveal where planted forests are being abandoned or are no longer being harvested due to concerns relating to planting on erosion-prone land,” says Evans. “For forestry and wood processing
companies, this data offers them a holistic view of their assets and a basis for wellinformed decisions.”
The granularity of the information available from Forest Insights offers huge benefits to industry and investors alike, says Dr Pete Watt from Indufor’s Resource Monitoring Team.
“Such information provides the cornerstone for developing wood availability forecasts that underpin investment decisions and support infrastructure planning and policy settings.”
The journey of Forest Insights started in 2022 and is a collaborative effort.
Scion’s data scientists have supplied all the models and data, working with Indufor Asia Pacific Ltd to create the online tool and dashboard interactivity.
Testing with a handful of industry users has yielded positive feedback, with at least one forestry company expressing interest in using Forest Insights to validate their commercial forestry decisions.
Other collaborators have expressed interest in joining the Forest Insights project, and with their support Scion aims to expand its reach across New Zealand.
The aim is to expand its functionality and develop layers of complexity over time. Scion researchers have a grand vision for the prototype to serve as the foundation for a digital twin of New Zealand’s entire forestry estate.
TAFE NSW Tumut is one of only two forestry training providers in Australia, giving apprentice saw doctors from across the nation the skills and experience to forge long careers in the industry.
While many are born into the timber industry, Mr McNabb took an unusual path to saw doctoring, getting a glimpse of the profession during work experience at AKD Caboolture Sawmill while still at Morayfield
“Not manty people know about saw doctoring but they’re fascinated when I explain what we do,” he said.
“I loved that it was handson, whether it’s manually hammering a saw, tig welding a crack on a saw or programming a CNC machine.
“I get so much pride out of the fact that my work is helping keep the mill running. I also like the fact saw doctors are in such demand, I’ve got pretty much guaranteed work for life.”
Saw doctors are an irreplaceable part of the timber
Caboolture is one of the major hubs for Queensland’s forestry industry, a sector that employs about 10,000 people and delivers an annual economic contribution of around $3.2 billion.
Mr McNabb said he was “honoured” to win the award and praised the quality of his TAFE NSW training.
“There were so many good operators in my class, I feel privileged to be singled out like this,” he said. “My TAFE NSW training was exceptional and the teachers were extremely knowledgeable and passionate about passing on their knowledge.”
TAFE NSW Tumut forestry teacher Adam Farquharson said sawmills across the nation were crying out for TAFE NSW-trained saw doctors.
“There is so much ongoing demand for saw doctors because it’s highly specialised work and there are so few around,” Mr Farquharson said.
“TAFE NSW really gives students the in-demand skills and industry connections to forge a career in forestry.”
● The dashboard view for Forest Insights.
● Caboolture apprentice saw doctor Daniel McNabb has claimed a prestigious TAFE NSW award.
Log Handling
CASE delivers new mini track loaders
CASE Construction
Equipment is launching an all-new line-up of mini track loaders and small articulated loaders. The new product lines from CASE will highlight how small contractors can overcome labour challenges and get more done with right-sized machines.
CASE will release six new small articulated loaders to help contractors of all sizes meet their toughest challenges on tight jobsites.
With power ranges from 24 to 74 horsepower, operating capacity from 680kg to more than 1360 kg, options for diesel or fully electric, and a full range of more than 110 powerful attachments, CASE small articulated loaders will be some of the most versatile machines on the market.
Several CASE small articulated loaders, including the SL12TR model, feature a telescopic arm to provide an extra-long reach for loading trucks or moving material into tough-toreach places. And where lifting capacity is a priority, CASE will offer more rugged models with traditional Z-bar loader linkage that can handle heavier loads.
CASE is also launching the all-electric SL22EV that delivers the same power as its diesel counterparts and can be fully charged in one hour. This electrified machine provides a low noise, zero-emissions solution for getting work done in a broader range of environments — whether it’s indoor work where air quality is paramount or a close-quarter residential neighbourhood where contractors need to keep noise levels down.
The new stand-on TL100 mini track loader will offer crews a powerful attachment platform in a compact, easy-tomanoeuvre and easyto-transport machine.
● On-Board Weighing is now standard on L90H- L350H models, including the L200H high lift.
Telematics system connects operators with machines
Volvo wheel loaders are the ultimate power machine in the log handling industry, boosting productivity with their excellent operating characteristics.
The combination of breakout torque, parallel lift-arm action, and long reach enables short cycle times in log unloading, stacking, and feeding.
Driving this prowess is Volvo Co-Pilot, a state-of-the-art telematics system that connects operators with their machines. It uses a tablet computer to deliver a new generation of intelligent machine services, such as Load Assist, Dig Assist, and Haul Assist. Volvo Co-Pilot and the assist functionalities help operators produce higher-quality outcomes in less time and effort.
Volvo Load Assist is there to help operators optimise their work by providing real-time information and assistance to improve the efficiency and productivity of your loading operations in log-handling applications.
Load Assist has various functionalities, including
real-time data, On-Board Weighing, Connected Load Out and Operator Training.
With Load Assist’s OnBoard Weighing app, operators can make overloading, underloading, and waiting times a thing of the past. The app provides real-time insight into the bucket load and the load receiver’s payload. It gives operators a level of accuracy, improving their efficiency and productivity even more. The high-resolution touchscreen works with the app, which captures all load data via pressure and position sensors.
On-Board Weighing is now standard on L90H- L350H models, including the L200H high lift. Operators love it for its simplicity – the data is displayed in a user-friendly format, making it easy to see from the driver’s seat.
The Volvo Co-Pilot display instantly shows the exact weight. For example, if a truck with a target weight of 23 tons and 12 tons is currently unloaded, the next bucket will automatically adjust to 11 tons. The On-Board Weighing app guarantees ac-
Smarter Solutions Start Here
Insights into how to reduce your CO 2 footprint
curacy, as the operator can grab the second load, tip off any overage, reweigh it at exactly 11 tons, and then dump it in before the truck heads off for the scale. This innovation streamlines operations eliminates guesswork and maximises efficiency.
One of Volvo’s newest features on Load Assist is Connected Load-out, which improves and optimises your load-out by digitalising the entire flow – from load order to load ticket.
Connected Load-Out connects the loading machine, truck, and site office through real-time digital communication, boosting productivity and reducing administration, misloads, and fuel consumption costs.
To ensure precise loads of weighing logs before processing, Load Assist provides the optimal means to maximise your profits in any loading scenario. If you’re accustomed to manually handling this data, Load Assist lets you easily download it onto a USB and integrate it into your ERP system for seamless reporting. Connected Load Out offers
valuable insights into site activities and potential improvements. Additionally, the advantage lies in storing the data directly on the loader, eliminating the need for manual paper reporting.
Volvo Construction Equipment is well known as one of the world’s best manufacturers of safe, high-quality, and technologically advanced equipment – and CJD Equipment has been proudly offering its products to the Australian market for nearly half a century.
CJD Equipment and Volvo CE have provided a range of premium construction machinery suited to Australia’s unique industry requirements for decades. Volvo and CJD deliver a range of productivity, fuel efficiency, and safety solutions for a highly productive operation, ensuring machines perform at their best.
CJD Equipment has an extensive national support network to ensure you are well supported, no matter where or when. For more information, contact your local CJD branch on 1300 139 804 or visit cjd.com.au.
Volvo Group is a member of the climate savers program WWF, designed to reduce Co2 emissions globally
Volvo Opti-shift and Torque Parallel Linkage system ensure reduced fuel consumption and downtime
Volvo Connected Machines
Optimise how you work with Volvo Co-Pilot, your partner in the cab. The high-resolution 10” touch screen provides access to a range of Assist applications, designed to boost productivity, accuracy and efficiency.
Harnessing the full power of machine data and site analysis through connected technologies is one of the first steps towards a more sustainable work site.
Optimal visibility and component protection, creates a short load-center distance for enhanced safety.
Sustainability is central to Volvo’s commitment, spanning manufacturing to disposal
Herbicides
Forestry leadership course launches
The Tasmanian Forests and Forest Products Network Workforce + Diversity Project has led the charge, working with industry to develop a new Pilot Certificate IV Skill Set in Forestry Leadership, to be delivered by TasTAFE.
The pilot skill set is designed to grow the proficiencies and knowledge of forestry industry employees, equipping them to become future leaders. It is a new offering and is comprised of three units, including the two core units, from the Certificate IV in Forest Operations Qualification. These units were chosen by industry as they focus on safety, management and leadership – key skills for the forestry workforce.
Developed in close collaboration with industry, the Forestry Leadership Skill Set provides an opportunity for individuals and organisations to create real pathways and expand on career opportunities.
The TFFPN’s Workforce + Diversity Reference Group Chair, Brodie Frost, said the skill set will provide a well-rounded introduction for emerging leaders and supervisors in the forest sector.
“This is a great example of industry working together with an RTO to develop training that meets their specifications,” Mr Frost said.
Jillian Aylett Brown, CEO of MechLog, is passionate about creating pathways for industry employees.
“As an employer, I am excited to provide this opportunity to my staff and will be committing to participating in this training,” Ms Aylett Brown said. “Key to this initiative is a workshop delivery model, where we have the opportunity to bring our current and future leaders together, to build connections across the industry."
New system to eliminate unwanted trees in plantations
There is a new, innovative and scientifically driven method for dealing with unwanted trees and woody weeds, thanks to a unique herbicide delivery system developed by the University of Queensland (UQ) and Bioherbicides Australia (BHA).
A collaboration between UQ and BHA has seen the development of an herbicide-filled capsule that is implanted directly into the stem of the target tree. This method of weed control is practical, portable, and far more convenient than other approaches and has the added benefit of greatly reducing, if not eliminating safety risks to workers and harm to the surrounding landscape.
Currently there are various strategies for herbicidebased control of undesirable trees. These methods include foliar spraying (where the herbicide is often diluted in a water before spraying), basal bark application (where the base of target tree is heavily sprayed with a mixture of herbicide and diesel distillate) and the cut stump method (where the tree is felled before painting or spraying the cut surface of the stump with a herbicide solution). There are also drill and fill approaches where holes are manually drilled into the
trunk and liquid herbicide poured into these holes. These strategies have limitations in their ability to control woody weeds effectively. For example, the efficiency of spraying is affected by environmental factors such as wind, temperature, and humidity. The use of sprayer applied herbicides is restricted by the closeness of the unwanted trees to sensitive waterways, crop and pastures. Furthermore, there are legislative and environmental concerns regarding contamination of soil and harm to adjacent wanted trees when using traditional methods of weed control.
Having a new technologically driven system that addresses many practical and environmental concerns regarding control of unwanted invasive trees is a game changer, especially as there have been few advances to date.
This ingenious UQ/BHA technology uses herbicidefilled capsules implanted directly into the stems of invasive woody weeds. To facilitate the delivery of the capsule into the tree, an easy-to-use applicator – the Injecta - has been developed. The Injecta is designed to drill a hole into the trunk, insert the herbicide capsule and a sealing plug. The sealing of the cap-
LOOKING BACK
2020
sule ensures that moisture is retained, and oxidation of the hole is prevented allowing the capsule and herbicide to dissolve allowing rapid uptake into the tree’s vascular system.
The capsule and plug can also be manually and simply inserted into the tree using a standard cordless drill.
Professor Victor Galea from UQ said the process, of implanting dissolvable capsules, bypasses the need to wastefully apply herbicide sprays over large areas. Due to the small amount of herbicide in each capsule, and the targeted application there is minimal loss.
“Another reason why this delivery system is so useful is that it protects non-target plants, which are often damaged through unintentional contact when using traditional methods such as spraying” Professor Galea said.
This application method significantly reduces environmental and operator exposure to herbicide and reduces waste as unused capsules can be stored for long periods. The method also is not subject to external environmental conditions as capsule insertion can be undertaken, for example, under windy conditions or near waterways.
The portability and con-
venience of the system, coupled with its proven efficacy and safety, mean the encapsulated herbicide could be used in a variety of settings and locations and could revolutionise the way agricultural and environmental manages battle invasive weeds.
Two products, Di-Bak G (glyphosate) and Di-Bak AM (aminopyralid/metsulfuron), are currently available in Australia along with the Injecta applicator and can be purchased through agricultural supplies outlets across the country as well as directly from info@bioherbicides.com.au.
BHA is continuing the product development and expanding this proprietary delivery system to plant protection field. In the pipeline are capsule products to control unwanted insects and fungi in crop trees and other valuable trees. Several products already available for large scale trials and demonstrations. New products and application method will bring along significant savings in materials and operational efforts. There is a great potential for this new technology to change the way we manage invasive pests, and improve worker and environmental safety by applying chemicals in a more targeted and controlled way.
In HarleyWood a star is born
Keith Smiley
Hard work and sacrifice epitomise the efforts of Harley Dixon in creating a viable business out of necessity.
Rather than starting with a business plan he began his career by renovating his own house but after realising the timbers’ short comings; he went out and bought a Lucas sawmill, and did the job himself.
“I bought a house on a block but I was disappointed with the quality of the timber, so I read up on the Lucas, and started cutting my own timber for the renovation and later for others. It’s been profitable ever since, and paid the bills, but such a hard-long journey to build the business,” said Harley Dixon.
“I left a job and went full time with the timber and I’ve reinvested the money into the business rather than pay myself a wage. I started cutting trees down from a friend’s cropping farm then I sourced from other places, an odd tree here and there, off fence lines, or bush blocks to mill four by twos. People could see what I was doing from the highway, so I never had to advertise.
Harley continues to build an ‘empire’ hewn from the local farms in the surrounding Baan Baa area of northern New South Wales, noted for its cropping, beef and lamb, and more recently, mining.
“I bought another 30 acres, now 48 acres all up, milling onsite, but off the highway. It’s a good size. We moved off the highway,
to allow us to grow, expanding it to make it more of a path to a bigger parcel of land.
“The fences were rundown, so we’ve tidied them up, pulling some of the money out of the business. My focus is on timber although I might put some sheep and cattle on the land at a later time. I need to invest back into the land; build and repair what is needed to make it a nice, presentable place, to be; it’s a massive juggling act.”
Harley’s wife Sarah Leete
ley. Next year they’ll expand the business and employ another worker and an office person or two, while Harley ‘learns to delegate’.
HarleyWood recently bought a Wood-Mizer, WM1000 mill, to be delivered in February. The machine allows them to work more efficiently, with the ‘best gear’, while growing and upgrading when necessary. The Wood Mizer is designed to saw large logs and tropical species. Harleywood needed a durable machine which would be
is a country and western musician and plays the acoustic guitar and sings but is not involved in the business at this stage. “Sarah and I wanted a good foundation, to get our careers under control, making it good-to-be-present in the moment.”
A family friend Jake runs the Lucas mill, and will continue to learn with Har-
easy to use and feature a saw head with a large throat opening that could move along a twin-rail frame. ‘I want to create an enjoyable productive environment which supports me and the people I work with’.
With a wry grin Harley describes how a friend had first suggested the name of his enterprise – HarleyWood – a catchy name with
a sense of humour. They are serious about what they do, without taking themselves too seriously. “I am proud to have my name in it. It’s all a bit of fun. I also have a bad habit of listening to smart people.”
HarleyWood’s website is about to get an upgrade to showcase their grain-laden slabs that are used in furniture making and for table tops. Their products will be categorised by grading and price, and will be sold online. It was more advantageous for HarleyWood to work with high volume retailers for their flooring timber, rather than buy and sell as they had done previously. “I’d taken on too much so we are now concentrating on the slabs. I used to build furniture but I ran out of time.”
HarleyWood apply epoxy resin and oils on their slabs, attracting customers from among furniture makers.
As for dimensional timber, Harley says he has spread himself ‘too thinly’ but will continue to sell large specialised sizes for timber to relieve an overload of orders. “I want to build infrastructure, develop systems and processes, so that we can move forward.
“I have a burning desire to be the best I can and to create a place where it’s all possible. It’s also about managing money and good customer relations. I’ve stuck with it and I want to make it better, despite knowing how difficult it is to grow a business. I enjoy what I do, because if you find something you love, you never work a day in your life.”
OneFortyOne, in partnership with The Department of Education and Child Development today launched a pathway program at Mount Gambier High School which will provide students from Year 8 to Year 12 from Limestone Coast Secondary schools with an articulated pathway in the Forest and Timber Industry. The Ultimate Renewable Forest Learning Pathway Program provides the education and skills necessary for students to join the forest and timber industry with a Certificate III and SACE credit points.
2017
Harvesting contractor Moreland Holdings was a popular winner at the OneFortyOne Plantations inaugural safety awards taking out a major award for “Group or Company of the Year” for their outstanding commitment to workplace health and safety. Morelands was recognised for their work in improving the safe carting of logs in the Green Triangle. They were the first company in the region to introduce webbing straps, reducing the potential for shoulder and upper body injuries. Furthermore, over the past 20 years they have been actively working with log trailer manufacturers to improve trailer stability, reducing the number of rollovers regionally and nationally.
2012
THE 2012 Forest and Wood Products Australia annual general meeting saw the return of two directors as well as the appointment of John McNamara, managing director of DTM Timbers, to the FWPA Board.
Mr McNamara has more 30 years’ experience in the forest and forest products industry and enjoys a high industry profile. Until recently he was managing director of Hyne and Sons, a role he held for 18 years.
● Herbicide-filled capsules are implanted directly into the stems of invasive woody weeds.
● HarleyWood’s Harley Dixon take a well-earned break.
● Timber being stacked at the mill in the Baan Baa area of northern New South Wales.
NEW Thinning & Clear Fall Harvesters from Komatsu Forest
The Komatsu 931XC & 951XC provide considerable advantages logging in steep terrain and soft ground. The compact eight-wheel design with high underlying tractive force and unique interaction between engine, control system and power transmission combine to provide;
• Great climbing ability & stability
• Excellent manoeuvrability
• Low ground pressure